Fluid Handling Conduit In Situ Patents (Class 73/40.5R)
  • Publication number: 20090090171
    Abstract: In a method for verifying the tightness of a tank bleeding system with a tank bleeding valve, a stop valve for air-tightly closing the tank bleeding system relative to an atmosphere prevailing outside the motor vehicle, and a bistable pressure switch whose switched condition indicates whether a predefined switching pressure is exceeded or not reached in the tank bleeding system, in order to be able to determine the tightness of the tank bleeding system without using a pressure sensor, the following steps are carried out: waiting until the vehicle speed drops below a certain threshold; opening the tank bleeding valve; closing the tank bleeding valve when a negative pressure has been attained which lies below the switching pressure; measuring the duration from the time an initial pressure lies below the switching pressure until the moment the switching pressure is exceeded again; and assessing the tightness is assessed based on the measured duration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventors: Oliver Grunwald, Alexander Ketterer
  • Publication number: 20090064764
    Abstract: There is provided an anomaly judgment device that is capable of detecting an abnormal state of a system highly accurately and obtaining an accurate result. The anomaly judgment device comprises a plurality of anomaly judgment means for judging an anomaly of the system and, in cases where it is judged by the plurality of anomaly judgment means that there is an anomaly, judgment means judges that a system anomaly exists. Hence, even in the event of a localized abnormal state judgment by one anomaly judgment means or failure, a final judgment is not made based on that anomaly alone, and at least one other anomaly judgment is made, whereby erroneous judgments can be eliminated and a highly accurate anomaly judgment is possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventors: Mikio Kizaki, Osamu Yumita
  • Publication number: 20090038377
    Abstract: An apparatus and a system is provided that may be utilized to determine oil migration and oil displacement from a pre-oiled air filter. The present invention may also be utilized to determine if oil is displaced from the air filter onto a portion of the apparatus for visualization to a user. The present invention utilizes a demonstration apparatus having a system for forcing air through the oil subjected air filter thereby attempting to force displacement of the oil from the air filter. The apparatus utilizes a blowing means whereby the oil infused air filter is subject to higher than normal air flow and whereby the apparatus has a deflection portion whereby if oil is displaced from the air filter, it is deflected onto the deflection portion where it would be physically viewable to an observer present in the vicinity of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: K&N Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: John Reedy, Steve Rogers, Richard Dwyer
  • Publication number: 20090013765
    Abstract: According to the present invention, mistaken detection of a gas leak can be prevented even when using an appliance which has been newly installed in a dwelling receiving a gas supply, and whereby a gas leak can be detected rapidly, efficiently and accurately. The characteristics extraction means 5 extracts characteristics of a gas flow including a combination of the instantaneous flow volume data and the instantaneous flow volume time differential value, on the basis of the data obtained by the flow volume measurement means 1, pressure measurement means 2, instantaneous flow volume time differential operation means 3 and pressure time differential operation means 4.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Kenji NAKANO, Yoshito Sameda, Yukio Takanohashi, Hiroto Uyama, Masaaki Ishino
  • Publication number: 20080302172
    Abstract: The system and method for detecting water and/or gas leaks by monitoring usage patterns is described. In one embodiment, the existence of a leak is detected by looking for usage patterns wherein water or gas is always being used, at least at a low rate. A leak is indicated if usage does not drop to zero, at least for a period of time, during a given time interval (e.g., during a 24-hour period). The severity of the leak is indicated by the minimum amount of usage during the given time period. In one embodiment, the leak detection system is provided in connection with an Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Inventor: Lawrence Kates
  • Patent number: 7461541
    Abstract: In one aspect the method provides for determining changes in helium concentration over time in the interstitial space between a primary vessel that is charged with helium and a secondary vessel. The expected concentration resulting from permeation is calculated and accounted for. In another aspect, air is circulated in the interstitial space. An abrupt change in measured concentrations may be used to determine an approximate leak location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: C.G.R.S., Inc
    Inventors: Joby L. Adams, Eric L. Hick
  • Patent number: 7441441
    Abstract: An automatic leak detection and isolation system for a fluid pipeline (3) comprising a pipeline section (1) through which the fluid flows, the pile line section comprising an inner section (5) through which the fluid flows and a sleeve (9) coaxial with and surrounding the inner section (5) and filled with a hydraulic fluid under pressure. A sensing device (not shown in this figure) is provided for sensing a reduction of the pressure of the hydraulic fluid indicating a leakage from or within the pipeline (3), and closure means (11) are provided, actuable in response to the sensing device sensing a reduction in pressure of the hydraulic fluid to close off one end of the pipeline section (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventor: Bndean Abdulkadir Omer
  • Publication number: 20080229807
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method and a system for detecting a leakage in a pipeline (4) or similar conduit characterized by the use of an umbilical flexible tube (1) laid within and along said pipeline (4), the displacement of a solution column (2) within said umbilical flexible tube (1), the measurement of the pressure (P) at the front (3) of said solution column (2) and the localization of said front (3) from the said measured pressure (P).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Walter Hollenstein
  • Publication number: 20080216560
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for use in testing the fluid tightness of closed vessels or fluid systems, such as found in the pressurized cooling system of an internal combustion engine and the fluid transmission of an automobile. The apparatus is configured to detect and/or quantify fluid leakage from a fluid system that is under pressure, when in use, such as through imperfections in the housing or sealing structure of the fluid system whereby to warn the provider of such fluid system that a leakage condition exists.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventors: Mark W. Ridgway, Glen A. Ridgway
  • Publication number: 20080209985
    Abstract: A meter register includes a register body having a rotatable drive shaft coupled thereto. A drive gear is attached to the drive shaft and at least one follower gear is rotatably attached to the register body and coupled with the drive gear. An antenna is provided that includes a first electrically conductive sheet, a second electrically conductive sheet, and an axially extending leg electrically connected to the first electrically conductive sheet and the second electrically conductive sheet. A first electrically conductive sheet is spaced an axial distance away from the second electrically conductive sheet wherein at least a portion of the register body is sandwiched between the first electrically conductive sheet and the second electrically conductive sheet. The meter register can be attached to a meter body and, further, an auxiliary antenna can be attached to the meter register. Also disclosed is a method of operation of a utility measuring system that incorporates the above-described meter register.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicant: ARAD MEASURING TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    Inventor: Dan Winter
  • Publication number: 20080196481
    Abstract: A method and system for deriving fluid leak information are described. A plurality of sealing elements are introduced into the pipeline at a location upstream of the leak, and at least some of the sealing elements are drawn towards the leak to cause a sealing event which reduces fluid seepage. A pressure change caused by the sealing event is detected, and associated time data is used to derive information about the leak. In one embodiment, leak location information is derived. In an alternative embodiment, pressure transient information is used to derive leak size information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2006
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Applicant: BRINKER TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventors: Ian McEwan, Nicholas Ryan
  • Publication number: 20080184781
    Abstract: A method for testing a fluid supply system includes periodically preventing a fluid flow through the fluid supply system, and measuring a system pressure of the fluid flow subsequent to the step of preventing the fluid flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Timothy David Mulligan, David Millar, Aaron Ross London, David Michael Parrish, Lindon Alford Baker, Richard Alan Gros
  • Publication number: 20080184780
    Abstract: In one aspect there is disclosed a method of detecting a hydrogen leak in a fuel cell system that includes the steps of a) providing a hydrogen sensor, b) determining sensor characteristics, c) measuring a hydrogen concentration, d) determining if a hydrogen leak is occurring, and e) performing an action based on the determination of step d). The step of determining the sensor characteristics may include determining an upper detection limit of the hydrogen sensor, as well as determining a minimum time period at the upper detection limit before saturation of the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Toyota Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Jared M. Farnsworth
  • Patent number: 7395695
    Abstract: A pipe testing apparatus includes a mandrel adapted for insertion within the pipe and two sealing devices connected to the mandrel and adapted to seal opposite ends of the pipe to create an annular space between the mandrel, the pipe, and the sealing devices. The apparatus further includes one or more ports for filling the annular space with a pressurized fluid and a pressure gauge for monitoring the pressure within the annular space. At least one of the sealing devices includes a combination of a sealing ring and a force applying ring, which forces the sealing ring to bear against one end of the pipe to from a seal. The mandrel is provided with stops for preventing the at least one sealing device from moving axially away from the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Car-Ber Investments Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn Carson
  • Publication number: 20080148818
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for a system for maintaining hydrogen purity in an electrical power generator where the system monitors the health of the electrical generating system by calculating the time remaining until preventative maintenance is required based on hydrogen usage. The system also monitors the health of the system by detecting the occurrence of major leaks within the electrical power generator and adapting the operation of the system to maintain a desired operating environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Applicant: PROTON ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventor: A. JOHN SPERANZA
  • Publication number: 20080141760
    Abstract: A diagnostic method of detecting component failures in a fuel cell anode subsystem involves estimating fuel flow through injectors and comparing the estimated flow with a model based upon the system parameters. An observer based model is used to determine a residual value, the difference between the hydrogen input and the hydrogen consumed, and the residual is compared with a threshold range. In alternative embodiments, the stack current and the state of the valves are used to calculate the required hydrogen flow through the injectors and the duty cycle of an injector is compared to a tolerance range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon R. Sienkowski, David A. Arthur, Abdullah B. Alp, Prasad Gade, Thomas Weispfenning, Peter Willimowski, Jurgen Thyroff
  • Patent number: 7251983
    Abstract: A pump housing that contains a pump that draws fuel from an underground storage tank containing fuel to deliver to fuel dispensers in a service station environment. The pump is coupled to a double-walled fuel pipe that carries the fuel from the pump to the fuel dispensers. The double-walled fuel piping contains an inner annular space that carries the fuel and an outer annular space that captures any leaked fuel from the inner annular space. The outer annular space is maintained through the fuel piping from the pump to the fuel dispensers so that the outer annular space can be pressurized by a pump to determine if a leak exists in the outer annular space or so that fuel leaked from the inner annular space can be captured by a leak containment chamber in the pump housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventor: Ray J. Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 7231812
    Abstract: A conduit breach location detector for detecting leaks in a conduit is disclosed. The conduit breach location detector includes a shuttle cage for connection to the conduit. A sounding shuttle is provided in the shuttle cage. A sounding cable may be connected to the sounding shuttle. A pressurization system is connected to the shuttle cage for pressurizing the shuttle cage and pushing the sounding shuttle through the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventor: Michael E. Lagare
  • Patent number: 7225664
    Abstract: A pump housing that contains a pump that draws fuel from an underground storage tank containing fuel to deliver to fuel dispensers in a service station environment. The pump is coupled to a double-walled fuel pipe that carries the fuel from the pump to the fuel dispensers. The double-walled fuel piping contains an inner annular space that carries the fuel and an outer annular space that captures any leaked fuel from the inner annular space. The outer annular space is maintained through the fuel piping from the pump to the fuel dispensers so that the outer annular space can be pressurized by a pump to determine if a leak exists in the outer annular space or so that fuel leaked from the inner annular space can be captured by a leak containment chamber in the pump housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, Donald D. Halla, Richard G. Dolson, Robert P. Hart, Richard K. Lucas, Kent D. Reid
  • Patent number: 7194894
    Abstract: An Advanced Data Logging kit for testing a generator's liquid cooled stator bar system for leaks is disclosed. The kit is installed in between the generator's header and the HIT Skid and in the generator's cooling system. The kit includes pressure and vacuum transducers, sensor arrays with thermocouples, and data acquisition circuits. The sensor arrays are used to plumb the thermocouples into the generator's header and cooling pipes. The pressure and vacuum transducers and the thermocouples are used to collect pressure, vacuum and temperature data that is used to conduct a Pressure Decay Test and a Vacuum Decay Test to determine whether or not a leak in the liquid cooled stator bar system exists. A computer included in the kit has the ability to analyze the data readings, perform calculations, and predict leak rates in the stator bar system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Waheed Tony Mall, Roderick Mark Lusted, Gary Lindsey Stewart, Scott A Wheeler
  • Patent number: 7194893
    Abstract: A method and sensor or sensor subsystem permit improved evaporative leak detection in an automotive fuel system. The sensor or sensor subsystem computes temperature-compensated pressure values, thereby eliminating or reducing false positive or other adverse results triggered by temperature changes in the fuel tank. The temperature-compensated pressure measurement is then available for drawing an inference regarding the existence of a leak with reduced or eliminated false detection arising as a result of temperature fluctuations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens Canada Limited
    Inventors: John E. Cook, Paul D. Perry
  • Patent number: 7185529
    Abstract: The present invention provides a testing assembly for pressure testing a plumbing system in a building where the building has a shower station with a drain and a shower inlet. The testing assembly includes a drain adapter, a hose fitting on the shower inlet, and a hose removably connecting the shower inlet and the drain adapter. The drain adapter has a hose end fitting and a drain sealing element in fluid communication with the hose end fitting. The sealing element is adapted to be in fluid communication with the drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: William T. Ball, Duane Condon
  • Patent number: 7174771
    Abstract: A leak detection system capable of automatically detecting a leak in a pressurized piping system. A pressure decay test is utilized to test for leaks in the piping system. Disruption to users of the piping system is reduced by only performing the pressure decay test when there is no user demand on the piping system. Thus, a leakage test is performed by first determining whether there is user demand on the piping system and proceeding with a pressure decay test only if there is no user demand present. If user demand is initiated during the performance of a pressure decay test, the system detects the user demand and halts the pressure decay test until the user demand stops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Michigan Aqua Tech
    Inventor: Ralph W. Cooper
  • Patent number: 7127937
    Abstract: A method for detecting leaks in a fuel cell system that includes a hydrogen storage tank, a primary shut-off valve and a secondary shut-off valve in a supply line. At shut-down, the primary shut-off valve is closed and the stack is temporarily left operating. The pressure is measured in the supply line between the valves. When the measured pressure has reached a predetermined shut-down pressure, the secondary shut-off valve is closed. At the next system start-up, the pressure is measured before the shut-off valves are opened, and the measured pressure is compared with the stored pressure. If the current pressure measurement is lower than the stored pressure measurement, it is an indication that the supply line between the shut-off valves or the secondary valve leaks. If the measured pressure is higher than the stored pressure, it is an indication that the primary valve leaks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Jurgen Thyroff
  • Patent number: 7080546
    Abstract: A pump housing that contains a pump that draws fuel from an underground storage tank containing fuel to deliver to fuel dispensers in a service station environment. The pump is coupled to a double-walled fuel pipe that carries the fuel from the pump to the fuel dispensers. The double-walled fuel piping contains an inner annular space that carries the fuel and an outer annular space that captures any leaked fuel from the inner annular space. The outer annular space is maintained through the fuel piping from the pump to the fuel dispensers so that the outer annular space can be pressurized by a pump to determine if a leak exists in the outer annular space or so that fuel leaked from the inner annular space can be captured by a leak containment chamber in the pump housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, Donald D. Halla, Robert P. Hart, Richard G. Dolson, Richard K. Lucas, Kent D. Reid
  • Patent number: 7066010
    Abstract: A system and method of hydrostatic testing a pipeline that is not in service, according to which the pipeline is hydrostatically pressurized and a portable remote telemetry unit is temporarily connected to the pipeline for measuring variables corresponding to the hydrostatic pressurization. Data corresponding to the variable measurements is transmitted to a central location and the portable remote telemetry unit is disconnected from the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Milbar Hydro-Test, Inc.
    Inventors: Layton Bryant, Eric Burch
  • Patent number: 7051576
    Abstract: A pump housing that contains a pump that draws fuel from an underground storage tank containing fuel to deliver to fuel dispensers in a service station environment. The pump is coupled to a double-walled fuel pipe that carries the fuel from the pump to the fuel dispensers. The double-walled fuel piping contains an inner annular space that carries the fuel and an outer annular space that captures any leaked fuel from the inner annular space. The outer annular space is maintained through the fuel piping from the pump to the fuel dispensers so that the outer annular space can be pressurized by a pump to determine if a leak exists in the outer annular space or so that fuel leaked from the inner annular space can be captured by a leak containment chamber in the pump housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, Donald D. Halla, Robert P. Hart, Richard G. Dolson, Richard K. Lucas, Kent D. Reid
  • Patent number: 7024919
    Abstract: The invention provides a pressure measuring method and device that are capable of easily measuring the volume of a pipe that is an object of inspection and of eliminating the influences of a change in temperature in the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: AIM Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichiro Arima, Noboru Ueda, Hideo Taira, Yoshifumi Ohbuchi, Ippei Torigoe
  • Patent number: 7010961
    Abstract: A submersible turbine pump includes a power head enclosed in a casing. A vacuum source associated with the submersible turbine pump draws a vacuum in the interior space of the casing. A pressure sensor may be used to monitor the vacuum in the interior space to detect a leak in the power head or the casing. If a leak is detected, an alarm may be generated and the submersible turbine pump may be deactivated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, Donald D. Halla, Richard G. Dolson, Robert P. Hart, Richard K. Lucas, Kent D. Reid
  • Patent number: 6997042
    Abstract: A pump housing contains a pump that draws fuel from an underground storage tank to deliver fuel to fuel dispensers in a service station environment. The pump is coupled to a double-walled riser pipe that carries the fuel from the underground storage tank to the pump. The double-walled fuel piping contains an inner space that carries the fuel and an outer annular space that captures any leaked fuel from the inner space. The outer annular space is coupled to a vacuum created by the pump to determine if a leak exists in the outer annular space. An alternate submersible turbine pump has a double-walled housing with a pressure sensor disposed in the interstitial space of the double-walled housing. A vacuum may be created therein to determine if leaks are present in the housing of the submersible turbine pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, Donald D. Halla, Richard G. Dolson, Robert P. Hart, Richard K. Lucas, Kent D. Reid
  • Patent number: 6978660
    Abstract: A submersible turbine pump includes a power head enclosed in a casing. A vacuum source associated with the submersible turbine pump draws a vacuum in the interior space of the casing. A pressure sensor may be used to monitor the vacuum in the interior space to detect a leak in the power head or the casing. If a leak is detected, an alarm may be generated and the submersible turbine pump may be deactivated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, Donald D. Halla, Richard G. Dolson, Robert P. Hart, Richard K. Lucas, Kent D. Reid
  • Patent number: 6935161
    Abstract: A fueling environment distributes fuel from a fuel supply to fuel dispensers in a daisy chain arrangement with a double-walled piping system. Fuel leaks that occur within the double-walled piping system are returned to the underground storage tank or a sump proximate the submersible turbine pump by the outer wall of the double-walled piping. This preserves the fuel for later use and helps reduce the risk of environmental contamination. Leak detectors may also be positioned in to fuel dispensers detect leaks and provide alarms for the operator, and help pinpoint leak detection that has occurred in the piping system proximate to a particular fuel dispenser or in between two consecutive fuel dispensers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventor: Ray J. Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 6923043
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for detecting a leak between two circuits of a plate-type heat exchanger (1) provided with means for filling two circuits with fluid at a different pressure, characterized in that said device comprises automatic control means for the convergence of the pressure inside said circuits with respect to a given threshold, and means for signalling a leak when the automatic control means have detected the occurrence of said convergence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.
    Inventor: Gérard Rabelle
  • Patent number: 6901786
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring a fuel vapor recovery system to determine if a leak condition exists in either the vapor return passage in a fuel dispenser or a common vapor return pipe. An air-flow sensor (AFS) may be located in the common vapor return pipe for all of the dispensing points at a service station, or in each fuel dispenser and coupled to the dispensing points of the fuel dispenser. The AFS registers vapor flow recovered by a dispensing point(s) that is returned back to the storage tank. If the AFS measures vapor flow when such dispensing point(s) coupled to such AFS is not actively recovering vapor, this is indicative of a leak in such dispensing point(s). The leak condition is reported by a tank monitor or other reporting system so that appropriate measures can be taken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Veeder-Root Company
    Inventor: Robert P. Hart
  • Patent number: 6889538
    Abstract: A monitoring system for leak prevention and leak detection in a pipe line through which a liquid, particularly a petroleum product, passes. The system includes a fitting having two ports. Both ports are connected to an interstitial area surrounding the pipe through which the liquid passes. One port is also connected to a liquid leakage detection device and the other port is connected to a device for preventing liquid leakage to the ambient area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.
    Inventor: Harold F. Booles
  • Patent number: 6886388
    Abstract: A penetration fitting for forming a sealed connection between a conduit and a containment structure in an underground storage tank fueling system is provided that includes a main fitting element for forming a sealed connection to each of the conduit and the containment structure, wherein the main fitting element includes an interstitial space that is in fluid communication with each of the conduit and the containment structure. In one embodiment a monitoring fluid is disposed in the interstitial space and a sensor is used to monitor the level of the monitoring fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventors: M. Daniel McGill, Thompson W. Wyper
  • Patent number: 6862918
    Abstract: An apparatus for testing domestic water piping systems and a method for testing such systems from a washing machine box. The apparatus has a body and a set of flexible detachable hoses. The body has a central elongated member. At the top most portion of the central elongated member is an IPS connection. This IPS connection connects to a 100 PSI gauge. At opposing sides of the uppermost portion of the central elongated member are second IPS connections. Connected to these IPS connections is a compression 90° elbow. At the other end of the compression 90° elbow is a third IPS connection. On the left section of the lowermost portion of the central elongated member is a female garden hose fitting. On the right side of the lowermost portion of the central elongated member is a pressure bleed valve (shrader valve) controlled by a control knob at its base. Two flexible detachable hoses are provided each having a female hose connection at one end and a nut at the remaining end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Inventor: Wesley Saxton
  • Patent number: 6851298
    Abstract: In a fluid leakage detection apparatus, hydrogen is supplied from a hydrogen tank to an FC stack of a fuel cell via first and second pipes. An inlet valve is provided between the hydrogen tank and the first pipe, and an outlet valve is provided between the first pipe and the second pipe. A controller serves to control valve opening a valve closing operation of the inlet and outlet valves, respectively. Those valves are closed in a state where the pressure within the hydrogen tank is made lower than the pressure within the first pipe, and the pressure within the second pipe is made lower than the pressure within the first pipe by operating those valves. Thereafter, the increase or decrease in the pressure within the first pipe is detected by a pressure gauge such that the leakage in the inlet valve or the outlet valve is determined. This makes it possible to detect the leakage both in the inlet valve and the outlet valve at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shimpei Miura, Kenji Kurita, Naohiro Yoshida, Kenji Umayahara
  • Patent number: 6826948
    Abstract: A leak detection apparatus includes one or more detection devices that envelope the various pipe joints of a liquid circulation cooling system. In one approach, the detection devices include a pair of conductors separated by a wicking material impregnated with a crystalline salt that provides a low resistance electrical path between the conductors in the presence of a leak. In another approach, the detection devices include a pair of dissimilar metal mesh electrodes separated by an electrolyte-impregnated wicking material to form a water-activated battery that energizes an alarm in the presence of a leak. In either case, the electrodes and wicking material may be encased with a water-activated sealing material that hardens in the presence of a leak to contain the leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mohinder Singh Bhatti, Ilya Reyzin, Donald John Enzinna
  • Patent number: 6804991
    Abstract: In order to detect a leakage in a fluid system of a blood treatment apparatus having an extracorporeal blood circuit, the pressure in the fluid system is measured continuously during a predetermined period of the duration of treatment, and the leak rates are calculated from the change in the pressure at predetermined time intervals of the predetermined period of the duration of treatment. The leakage volume in the predetermined period of the duration of treatment is calculated from the leak rates, and the leakage volume is compared with a predetermined limit value. If the leakage volume is greater than the limit value, this indicates a possible loss of leaktightness in the system. This can be verified with a conventional pressure-holding test. The method and device are characterized by the fact that it is not necessary in principle to interrupt the blood treatment in order to detect a loss of leaktightness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Klaus Balschat, Helmuth Ender, Alfred Gagel, Reiner Spickermann
  • Patent number: 6761058
    Abstract: There is provided a leakage determination system for an evaporative fuel processing system, which, even when pressure within the evaporative fuel processing system is temporarily increased e.g. due to an increase in the amount of generation of evaporative fuel in a fuel tank, is capable of performing an accurate leakage determination by eliminating the influence of the temporary rise in the pressure within the evaporative fuel processing system on the leakage determination. A pressure sensor detects pressure within the evaporative fuel processing system. Negative pressure is introduced from the intake system into the evaporative fuel processing system, whereby the pressure within the evaporative fuel processing system is reduced until the detected pressure becomes equal to a predetermined negative pressure. After the pressure reduction, the negative pressure is introduced from the intake system into the evaporative fuel processing system under predetermined conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takashi Yamaguchi, Takashi Isobe
  • Patent number: 6691556
    Abstract: An automatic data logging kit is used with a hydraulic integrity test kit for testing a liquid cooled stator bar system. The automatic data logging kit includes a spool piece having end connectors attachable between the liquid cooled stator bar system and the hydraulic integrity test kit as well as a plurality of sensor receptacles. At least one temperature sensor insertable within an interior of the liquid cooled stator bar system is coupled with an output connector operatively securable in the first of the sensor receptacles in the spool piece. At least one pressure sensor is also operatively securable in one of the spool piece sensor receptacles. A control unit receives output from the sensors and calculates a leak rate based on the received sensor output. The automatic data logging kit provides automatic data logging capabilities for pressure-decay and vacuum-decay cycle tests, increased accuracy of the pressure-decay and vacuum-decay data and reduced cycle time in determining the leak rates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Scott Andrew Wheeler, Roderick Mark Lusted
  • Patent number: 6672138
    Abstract: A method and sensor or sensor subsystem permit improved evaporative leak detection in an automotive fuel system. The sensor or sensor subsystem computes temperature-compensated pressure values, thereby eliminating or reducing false positive or other adverse results triggered by temperature changes in the fuel tank. The temperature-compensated pressure measurement is then available for drawing an inference regarding the existence of a leak with reduced or eliminated false detection arising as a result of temperature fluctuations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Canada Limited
    Inventors: John E. Cook, Paul D. Perry
  • Patent number: 6668619
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for detecting and locating leaks in a pipeline. Pattern match filtering is used to reduce false alarm rate, increase sensitivity and improve leak location accuracy, while quickly detecting leaks by the acoustic signal generated from a leak event in pipelines containing gas or liquid under pressure. The pattern match filter technique detects a pressure wave generated by a leak, but discriminates against background noise and pressure disturbance generated by other non-leak sources that might otherwise be detected as a leak. The pattern match filter derives a sharp peaked output from the signal of the expansion wave which allows for a distinctive point of reference for a time stamp. This provides for improved accuracy in leak location calculations. The pattern match filter is incorporated into site processors located at multiple points along a pipeline, and at a central node processor which receives data from all site processors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Acoustic Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Bao-Wen Yang, Marion Recane
  • Patent number: 6662633
    Abstract: A method for locating an internal transfer leak in a fuel cell stack by applying a substantially constant gas pressure difference between a first fluid stream passage and a second fluid stream passage, wherein gas pressure in the second fluid stream passage is higher than gas pressure in the first fluid stream passage. A test gas is supplied to the second fluid stream passage and a test liquid is supplied to the first fluid stream passage. A parameter indicative of flow rate of the test gas exiting the first fluid stream passage is measured as the test liquid fills the first fluid stream passage. An apparatus for locating an internal transfer leak in a fuel cell stack is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Ballard Power Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen John Pratt
  • Patent number: 6568246
    Abstract: A system and method for detecting an air leak within an exhaust system is provided. The method includes measuring an exhaust gas constituent in exhaust gases from the engine when the engine is operating in an idle operating mode. The method further includes determining whether the air leak is present in the exhaust system based on a measured exhaust gas constituent, a first air-fuel correction value, and a second air-fuel correction value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Edward Ponagai, Gary Lee Danhoff, Ghassan Hussini, Ghassan K. Raad, Michael igor Kluzner, Raymond Henry Berger, Robert Joseph Jerger
  • Patent number: 6564613
    Abstract: An air conditioner line leak tester for testing for any leaks in an air conditioner system without risking loss of coolant into the atmosphere. The device comprises a housing having first and second air pressure gauges mounted on and extending into the housing. A first tubular member is fluidly coupled to the first air pressure gauge and has a free end adapted for removably coupling a lower pressure side of the air conditioner. A second tubular member is fluidly coupled to the second air pressure gauge and a free end adapted for removably coupling a higher pressure side of the air conditioner. A one way valve is coupled to the first and second tubular members. A supply conduit is removably coupled to the one way valve for supplying pressured air to the first and second tubular members for measuring air pressure in the lower and higher sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Michael R. Speer
  • Patent number: 6530262
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for calibrating a sensor for flowing fluid in a system including a dialysis monitor, a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the method including applying a first pressure to the flowing fluid and detecting a first flow of the flowing fluid at the fluid input and the fluid output, applying a second pressure to the flowing fluid and detecting a second flow of the flowing fluid at the fluid input and the fluid output, and determining whether any detected differences between the first and second flows are the result of leakage in the system or are caused by the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Gambro Lundia AB
    Inventor: Olle Esser
  • Patent number: 6530263
    Abstract: A system for localizing and correlating leaks in a pipeline includes a plurality of loggers for detecting and storing sound data, an interface unit removably connected to the plurality of loggers and a computer system removably connected to the interface unit. Each logger includes a housing and electronics disposed within the housing, the electronics comprising a microprocessor for controlling the operation of the logger, a battery source for powering the logger, a sound sensor for detecting sound data and data storage circuitry for storing sound data detected by the sound sensor. In use, the plurality of loggers are disposed along the pipeline and are programmed to record sound data. The sound data recorded by the plurality of loggers is downloaded onto the computer system which, in turn, localizes and correlates any leaks present in the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Radcom Technologies LTD
    Inventor: Gurcharan Singh Chana
  • Patent number: 6526807
    Abstract: A system for early detection of water leaks at particular locations in any water-dependent appliance and apparatus used in multi-dwelling facilities. A central control apparatus electrically interconnected with a plurality of circuits that enable water leaks to be accurately detected in a diversity of devices including air conditioners, compressor coils, hot water appliances, and pipes, and for communicating the severity of the water-related problem. A plurality of water sensors are incorporated into specially designed probes of the preferred embodiment of the present invention wherein water leaks may be accurately and reliably detected in a diversity of water-dependent appliances and devices. A specially designed fiber glass cloth functions as a probe for sensing water leaks via its built-in plurality of sensors constructed from a corresponding plurality of conductive wires enables the location and extent of a water leak to be ascertained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventors: Joseph Doumit, Royden J. Lynch, Jr.