Leakage Patents (Class 73/40)
  • Publication number: 20100154507
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring paravalvular leakage from a prosthetic heart valve in vitro. The apparatus has a pulse chamber pressure vessel and a pulsatile pump. The sewing ring of a prosthetic heart valve is mounted to a mounting member which is affixed to the pressure chamber, and paravalvular leakage from the heart valve is collected and measured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: John P. Matonick
  • Publication number: 20100147054
    Abstract: The invention discloses a loss detection system to determine and monitor containment losses for open channel networks. One exemplary method comprises monitoring a flow of liquid from an open channel into a pool, the open channel comprising channel banks and a bed, controlling the flow of liquid such that a level of liquid within the pool is constant, and determining theft loss of liquid based on the monitored flow of liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventor: David Aughton
  • Publication number: 20100139370
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) monitors the condition of a component (12) by measuring the conductivity to air flow of a sealed cavity (14) formed on the surface of the component (12). The apparatus (10) comprises an unregulated pressure source (16) that is coupled to the cavity (14) via a fluid flow restriction (17). A measurement system (19) provides a measurement of, or related to, the volumetric air flow through the restriction (17), and calculates a conductivity index CI to air flow of the cavity in accordance with the equation CI=flow/pressure difference. In this equation “flow” is the volumetric flow of air through the flow restriction and “pressure difference” is the difference in pressure across the cavity with reference to atmospheric or ambient pressure. In the event that a crack traverses the cavity and provides a flow path to the atmosphere, the conductivity index CI will be a non-zero value. The higher the conductivity index the larger the crack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventor: Jonathan Fievez
  • Publication number: 20100139371
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring and determining fuel vapor recovery performance is disclosed. The dispensing of liquid fuel into a tank by a conventional gas pump nozzle naturally displaces a mixture of air and fuel ullage vapor in the tank. These displaced vapors may be recovered at the dispensing point nozzle by a vapor recovery system. A properly functioning vapor recovery system recovers approximately one unit volume of vapor for every unit volume of dispensed liquid fuel. The ratio of recovered vapor to dispensed fuel is termed the A/L ratio, which should ideally be approximately equal to one (1). The A/L ratio, and thus the proper functioning of the vapor recovery system, may be determined by measuring liquid fuel flow and return vapor flow (using a vapor flow sensor) on a nozzle-by-nozzle basis. The disclosed methods and apparatus provide for the determination of A/L ratios for individual nozzles using a reduced number of vapor flow sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicant: VEEDER-ROOT COMPANY
    Inventor: Robert P. Hart
  • Publication number: 20100132714
    Abstract: A sealing device for positive pressure testing is attached to a respirator face mask and includes an outer frame integrally joined to a movable cap by a flexible link that biases the cap in an open position for the operational use of the face mask against a manually applied force to move the cap to a sealed position for the positive pressure testing to assure the proper fit of the face mask on the wearer. The method for positive pressure testing includes flexibly moving the sealing device from the open position to the sealing position such that the sealing surface of the cap seals the exhalation valve assembly closed. The wearer then exhales into the mask to test the seal of the mask. When the test is completed, the sealing device is released and the inherent biasing force moves the cap from the sealing position to the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: NORTH SAFETY PRODUCTS INC.
    Inventors: Paul Morelli, Nino Granatiero, Joseph Rodrigues
  • Publication number: 20100132436
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring and determining fuel vapor recovery performance is disclosed. The dispensing of liquid fuel into a tank by a conventional gas pump nozzle naturally displaces a mixture of air and fuel ullage vapor in the tank. These displaced vapors may be recovered at the dispensing point nozzle by a vapor recovery system. A properly functioning vapor recovery system recovers approximately one unit volume of vapor for every unit volume of dispensed liquid fuel. The ratio of recovered vapor to dispensed fuel is termed the A/L ratio, which should ideally be approximately equal to one (1). The A/L ratio, and thus the proper functioning of the vapor recovery system, may be determined by measuring liquid fuel flow and return vapor flow (using a vapor flow sensor) on a nozzle-by-nozzle basis. The disclosed methods and apparatus provide for the determination of A/L ratios for individual nozzles using a reduced number of vapor flow sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: VEEDER-ROOT COMPANY
    Inventor: Robert P. Hart
  • Publication number: 20100138172
    Abstract: A gas pressure spring (1), in particular for absorbing stroke movements in a tool or in a machine, is designed and developed, with respect to the replicability and predictability of the behavior during use, as a function of the respective use conditions such that one or more measurement means for monitoring at least one physical measurement variable which occurs inside and/or at the gas pressure spring are provided. Furthermore, a device and a method for monitoring at least one physical measurement variable which occurs inside and/or at a gas pressure spring (1) are proposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: FIBRO GMBH
    Inventor: Norbert Reinmuth
  • Patent number: 7726178
    Abstract: System for the non invasive control of the tightness condition of apparatus, in particular of the constancy of said condition of m homogenous series, each one of n apparatus, which in the absence of said pressure constancy would have not acceptable, not uniform characteristics and performances, especially of electronic mechanical, hydraulic and similar apparatus. The system includes (a) a first sub system including a pneumatic chamber, set at a sampling reference pressure, for the pressure control of each one of said n apparatus of each one of said m homogenous series; (b) a second sub system of treatment and feeding of pneumatic fluid to said chamber in order to support and stabilize said reference pressure; and (c) a third sub system of comparison and detection of undesired deviations over said reference pressure, of the detected pressure in the chamber occupied, on turn, by each one of the n apparatus of each of the m series.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignees: Andrew Telecommunication Products S.r.l., NTI New Technologies for Industry S.A.
    Inventors: Pirovano Fausto, Nava Luigi
  • Patent number: 7726411
    Abstract: An apparatus for remote inspection of fire extinguishers at one or a system of fire extinguisher stations includes, e.g., at each fire extinguisher station: a detector for lack of presence of a fire extinguisher in its installed position at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for out-of-range pressure of contents of the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for an obstruction to viewing of or access to the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; and a device for communication of inspection report information by wireless signal between the fire extinguisher station and a remote central station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, Jr., Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Patent number: 7727765
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for leak testing the ventilation system of an environmental enclosure using a gas that is naturally present in ambient air, such as nitrogen, oxygen, argon, or carbon dioxide, as a tracer gas. In one embodiment, a gas filter capable of filtering all of the tracer gas from the air flowing through the filter is installed in the ventilation system. Testing is performed by operating the ventilation system to cause outside air to flow through the filter and into the enclosure so as to establish positive pressurization inside the enclosure. A gas monitor placed inside the enclosure is used to detect for the presence of leaks in the ventilation system by monitoring the concentration of the tracer gas inside the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
    Inventors: John A. Organiscak, Michael Schmitz
  • Patent number: 7716964
    Abstract: A leak detector apparatus for a pressurized cylinder having a cylinder of a radius (r) with a slidable piston in the cylinder with a gas filled chamber positioned between a cylinder end and the piston face. The length (L) of the chamber is calculated according to load changes on the piston where the volume (Vc) of the chamber changes. The pressure and temperature of the chamber are measured as well as the length. These values are inputted to a processor to solve the ideal gas law equation PV=nRT where a change in n for a change in length indicates a leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Kulite Semiconductor Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony D. Kurtz, Joseph Van DeWeert, Richard J. Martin
  • Patent number: 7716966
    Abstract: The present invention provides a surgical device including an elongate body defining a fluid flow path therethrough. An expandable element may be coupled to the elongate body and placed in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. Moreover, the surgical device may include a first leak detection element at least partially surrounding a portion of the expandable element, and a second leak detection element may be provided in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. In addition, a console may be provided, where the console may be in communication with the first and second leak detection elements. Further, a supply of cryogenic fluid as well as a vacuum source may be provided in fluid communication with the fluid flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Medtronic Cryocath LP
    Inventors: Marwan Abboud, Dan Wittenberger
  • Publication number: 20100116810
    Abstract: A system according to the present invention includes a cabinet, a basin positioned within the cabinet to contain and thermally treat a liquid bath, and a support assembly that stabilizes a surgical scope. The support assembly may include a first support that elevates scope optics above the liquid bath within the basin, and a second support that positions the shaft of the scope within the liquid bath, but above the floor and away from the walls of the basin. The scope optics resides outside of the bath in a dry state, while the remaining scope portions are positioned within the bath so the portions can be thermally treated. The support assembly enables a user to warm selected portions of the scope, while protecting the scope, the basin, and/or a drape lining the basin from damage caused when the scope contacts the basin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: O.R. SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Durward I. Faries, JR., Bruce R. Heymann, David Hendrix
  • Publication number: 20100118294
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for detecting a leakage of heavy water in a nuclear reactor system includes: a diode laser that generates a laser beam and injects the generated laser beam to a test sample placed in a light absorption cell; the light absorption cell accommodates a gathered test sample therein; a vacuum pump adjusts a degree of vacuum in the light absorption cell; a test sample introduction unit gathers an air test sample from a location with a high possibility of a leakage of heavy water or a light water test sample from a secondary side of a steam generator and transfers the sample to the light absorption cell; an optical detector detects the laser beam which has passed through the light absorption cell; and a microprocessor controls the operation of the diode laser, the light absorption cell, the vacuum pump, the test sample introduction unit, and the optical detector, receives a detect signal from the optical detector, and analyzes an absorption spectrum signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicants: KOREA ATOMIC ENERGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE, KOREA HYDRO & NUCLEAR POWER CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jae Min Han, Do Young Jeong, Kwang Hoon Ko, Taek Soo Kim
  • Publication number: 20100116071
    Abstract: Device for mounting and demounting of a probe (12) to be arranged in an access tube to a process pipeline. It comprises an hydraulic cylinder (14), accessing the access tube (26) with a gripping tool (15) to engage a probe (12) for moving this probe into an operating position in the access tube and retrieving the probe from this position. A revolving unit (17) with at least two chambers (27, 28) is provided, each for accommodating an axially movable probe (12). The chambers (27, 28) are accessible by the gripping tool (15) to move a probe into a chamber and in a subsequent step from the chamber into the access tube. A power means (30, 31) is arranged for revolving the revolving unit (17).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: ROXAR ASA
    Inventor: Nils Arne Braaten
  • Patent number: 7710250
    Abstract: A system for verifying fuel cap engagement utilizes a transducer coupled to a purge line of a fuel vapor recovery system to generate an electrical signal corresponding to one of the vapor pressure and the vapor flow rate in the purge line. A monitor receives the electrical signal and estimates the vapor pressure when the electrical signal corresponds to the vapor flow rate. The monitor likewise estimates the vapor flow rate when the electrical signal corresponds to the vapor pressure. The monitor also correlates the electrical signal and the estimate to generate a dataset relating vapor pressures to corresponding vapor flow rates at predetermined time intervals, computes a linear approximation of pressure versus flow rate, and computes a curve approximation of pressure versus flow rate. An indicator is actuated by the monitor when the difference between the computed linear and curve approximations is less than a predetermined threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Marcos J. Deleon
  • Publication number: 20100101574
    Abstract: In a CPAP or positive pressure ventilation system, leak is determined at each instant by a lookback for a time as long as single breath to establish the start of an averaging window over which low-pass filtered values used in the determination of a parameter of a leak model are averaged. A jamming index indicates whether the leak is rapidly changing. To the extent that jamming is high, the leak estimate used progressively changes from that using sliding breath-window averaging to a more robust and faster responding low-pass filter method, and adjustment of ventilatory support based on measures employing estimated respiratory flow is slowed down or stopped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: RESMED LTD
    Inventor: David John Bassin
  • Publication number: 20100100026
    Abstract: An example embodiment of the invention provides a system and method for detecting a liquid leak that includes a sensor with a passive resonant circuit having a resonant frequency, an interrogation unit to transmit a radio frequency (RF) wave corresponding to the resonant circuit's resonant frequency, and a receiver to measure the resonant circuit's response. A determination unit is configured to determine the presence of liquid based on the measured response. In the absence of liquid, the resonant circuit radiates a signal corresponding to its resonant frequency; however, in the presence of liquid, the resonant circuit's electrical characteristics change such that the resonant circuit does not resonate at its resonant frequency. The resonant circuit may include inductive and capacitive elements formed on a substrate using electrically conductive materials. Thus, the system may quickly, safely and accurately detect potentially life-threatening blood leaks that may occur during, for example, hemodialysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: Fresenius Medical Care Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Jules Jay Morris
  • Publication number: 20100089126
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for subsea pipeline servicing, including line-pack testing, physical integrity testing, recovery of damaged sections of pipelines, and product removal from subsea structures. In one embodiment of the invention, a subsea pipeline service skid is provided including at least one sample collection bladder affixed to the skid and in fluid communication with a skid mounted pump dimensioned to pull a sample from the subsea pipeline. In another embodiment, a product removal bladder is provided for removal of the hydrocarbons from a subsea structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: Valkyrie Commissioning Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan J. Sweeney
  • Publication number: 20100089125
    Abstract: A system for cover screw float detection. The system includes a drive cradle coupled to a structure. The system also includes a moveable portion coupled to the structure. The system further includes a sensor coupled to said structure. The system additionally includes another sensor coupled to the moveable portion. Spatial separation between the another sensor and the sensor when the moveable portion is oriented in a screw float check position indicates presence of cover screw float in a disk drive disposed in the drive cradle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventors: Phatharah Siriowatana, Kullachat Supanyadecha, Sitthichai Theosungnern
  • Patent number: 7696889
    Abstract: A fluid leak detection system includes a reservoir, a predetermined quantity of a disinfecting liquid contained within such a reservoir, and at least a pair of elongated conduits. A mechanism for automatically opening the distal end of the at least one conduit includes a leaking fluid absorbent member disposed along the distal end of each of the conduits. The fluid-dissolvable member is dissolved by the leaking fluid and absorbed by the member to permit the conduit to be unfolded and allow the disinfecting liquid to flow outwardly from the distal end of the at least one conduit. The system further includes a support frame attached to a support surface, an interface, a communications device electrically coupled to a switch, a monitoring station, and a communications link connecting the communications device to the monitoring station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Inventor: Woodrow J. David
  • Patent number: 7692553
    Abstract: An integrated leak detection system for a rotating union provides improved leak detection and user convenience. In an embodiment of the invention, the system provides a leak detection sensor located within the union, and in an embodiment of the invention the detection sensor is located beyond a back-up seal system. In an embodiment of the invention, the sensor and processing electronics are integral to the union housing. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the detection sensor is substantially symmetrically configured to detect leakage into a protected area regardless of orientation of the union. In an embodiment of the invention, the fluid being conveyed is electrically conductive and the detection sensor comprises an electrical conductivity sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Deublin Company
    Inventor: Zbigniew Kubala
  • Patent number: 7685866
    Abstract: A liquid delivery system having at least one channel, at least one valve within that channel, at least one flow sensing device within that channel, and a pressure source downstream of the valve capable for generating variable pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander Bierbaum, Hans-Georg Weissgerber, Konstantin Choikhet
  • Patent number: 7681435
    Abstract: An arrangement for monitoring the leak-tightness of an evacuated space which is hermetically closed, leak-tight, by means of at least one metallic wall is specified. A device which is connected to the evacuated space indicates an inadmissible pressure rise in the evacuated space caused by a leak in the wall. The device includes a metallic bellows, which is hermetically connected, leak-tight, to the evacuated space, and an electrical proximity switch to which an evaluation unit is connected. The proximity switch (7) is mounted, in the direction of movement of the bellows (5), at a distance from the end face of the latter, the size of which is varied as a function of the respective axial length of the bellows (5). A tube (9) connected fixedly to the wall (2) is mounted around the bellows (5), so as to maintain an air gap, surrounds the bellows (5) in a moisture-tight manner and is longer than the bellows (5) in its longest initial position corresponding to the expanded state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Nexans
    Inventors: Klaus Schippl, Friedrich Harten, Christian Frohne
  • Publication number: 20100064774
    Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for determining whether a leak is present in an evaporative emission control system 10 for on-board diagnostic purposes. The method comprises predicting for a leak of predetermined size the time period required for the vacuum to fall from a predicted starting vacuum to a predetermined level of vacuum at which the state of a switch changes, checking at the end of the time period the state of the switch and using the state of the switch as an indication of whether a leak greater than the predetermined size is present in the evaporative emission control system 10.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Robin J. Drane, Nick Wright
  • Publication number: 20100068986
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for testing the integrity of a portion of flexible pipe body. The method includes the steps of, via at least one port in an end fitting assembly in which an end of a portion of flexible pipe body is terminated, monitoring at least one parameter associated with an annulus region disposed between layers of the flexible pipe body, the annulus region being connected to the port by a connecting passageway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Tony Eccleston
  • Publication number: 20100064773
    Abstract: A liquid detection device for detecting liquid at a location on a structure includes a nanoscale spectrometer-on-a chip, and a fluid-absorptive element for absorbing liquid at the location and also securing the chip to the structure. Fluid absorbed by the element is analyzed by the spectrometer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Kimberly D. Meredith, Morteza Safai, Gary E. Georgeson
  • Patent number: 7677085
    Abstract: A gas leak detection apparatus includes a main body, a magnetically operated valve, a magnetically exciting device, a pressure sensing device, and a pressure detector. Thus, if the pressure detector detects that the gas leak happens to the pipe located at the rear side of the gas regulator, the control circuit board drives the magnetically exciting device to produce a magnetic force to drive the magnetically operated valve to close the conduit of the valve chamber and the outlet of the main body so as to interrupt the gas flow, thereby preventing the gas from entering the pipe located at the rear side of the gas regulator so as to provide a safety effect to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Jin Bor Shyh Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yung-Chun Lin
  • Publication number: 20100058837
    Abstract: A visualization device is described. The visualization device includes a body, one or more activating lights sources and one or more infrared light sources. The body is configured to receive one or more power sources. One or more infrared light sources are configured to determine temperature. The one or more activating light sources may be positioned at or proximate an end of the bode that is substantially opposite to the infrared light source and are configured to produce activating light. The activating light sources and the infrared light sources are separately or jointly coupled to one or more power sources. Methods of detecting leaks using the visualization device are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: William J. Quest, Kerry Whitaker, James S. Winton, II
  • Publication number: 20100063660
    Abstract: A vehicle is mounted with a drive device provided with a plurality of rotating electrical machines, and a drive unit driving the plurality of rotating electrical machines. A drive control device for the vehicle includes an electrical leak detector detecting electrical leak in the drive device, and a control device. The control device identifies an electrical leak location by receiving a result of the detection made by the electrical leak detector, and determines which rotating electrical machine out of the plurality of rotating electrical machines is allowed to operate when the vehicle is driven next time, in accordance with the electrical leak location, while the vehicle is stopped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kenji Uchida
  • Patent number: 7673496
    Abstract: A device and method for measuring the back pressure in chemical reactor tubes includes many automated features. Inflatable tube seals may be automatically inflated. The device may measure several tubes at once. It may transmit data electronically to a remote computer for analysis and graphic display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Tubemaster Inc
    Inventors: Clifford L. Johns, Daniel D. Sympson
  • Publication number: 20100050747
    Abstract: A method and device for identifying leaks in or a leakage rate of an integrated circuit package. The method and device include integrating a micromachined-thermal-convection accelerometer in the integrated circuit package and evaluating the initial and subsequent sensitivities of the accelerometer. A change in sensitivity with time provides indicia of a leak and a measure of leakage rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: MEMSIC, INC.
    Inventors: Yaping Hua, Zongya Li, Hanwu Xiao
  • Patent number: 7669461
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Lawrence Kates
  • Publication number: 20100043534
    Abstract: The invention provides for a pressure-based tester for testing integrity of a platform assembly. The platform assembly includes a pair of assembled platform components fastened together and a fluid path extending into both components, the platform assembly suitable for supporting printhead integrated circuits to be tested. The tester includes a housing assembly, a regulated gas supply arranged in the housing assembly, and a retaining mechanism in fluid communication with the gas supply and configured to retain the platform assembly in fluid communication with the gas supply during testing of the platform assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventors: Stephen John Sleijpen, Joseph Tharion, Jan Waszczuk, Eric Patrick O'Donnell, William Granger, David Bernardi, Stephen Richard O'Farrell, Jason Mark Thelander
  • Publication number: 20100043533
    Abstract: A pneumatic assembly for a pressure decay tester of printhead integrated circuits includes a pressurized air supply. A pneumatic clamping arrangement is in fluid communication with the pressurized air supply for clamping a carrier for the printhead integrated circuits such that the carrier is in fluid communication with the printhead integrated circuits. A valve arrangement applies a predetermined pressure to the carrier. A sensing arrangement senses a static pressure in the carrier. A control system is in communication with the clamping, valve and sensing arrangements to control operation thereof and to generate a discernible signal representing said static pressure such that a decay in said static pressure can be determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventors: Stephen John Sleijpen, Joseph Tharion, Jan Waszczuk, Eric Patrick O'Donnell, William Granger, David Bernardi, Stephen Richard O'Farrell, Jason Mark Thelander
  • Patent number: 7663503
    Abstract: A water meter has a meter register having an encoder having electromagnetic wave emitters, e.g., infrared emitters to measure water flow and direction of water flow through the meter. The encoder has two of three spaced emitters directing infrared rays at predetermined time intervals toward a rotating detector wheel having a reflective surface portion and a non-reflective surface portion facing the emitters and an infrared sensor. The reflective surface portion of the detecting wheel reflects the infrared rays incident thereon toward the sensor. A microprocessor connected to the sensor acts on signals from the sensor to determine material flow. The meter register transmits the signal to a distant receiver. The microprocessor of a meter register has an algorithm to prevent the meter register from sending signals until after the meter register or a water meter having a meter register is installed and water moved through the meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Arad Measuring Technologies Ltd.
    Inventor: Dan Winter
  • Patent number: 7654131
    Abstract: An instrument for accurately measuring mass flow rate of a fluid pumped from a hermetically sealed container, through attainment of a steady state mass flow rate, having a check valve positioned between a vacuum pump and a mass flow rate sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Mocon, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy A. Ascheman
  • Publication number: 20100018292
    Abstract: A method is proposed for leakage monitoring in a tube bundle reactor (2) having a bundle of contact tubes (2) vertically arranged parallel to one another, through which a fluid reaction mixture is delivered, and through whose space (3) surrounding the contact tubes a liquid heat exchanger is delivered, and having one or more vent holes (4) for the liquid heat exchanger in the upper region of the tube bundle reactor (1), which connect the tube bundle reactor (1) to one or more equilibrating vessels (5, 6, 7) for the liquid heat exchanger, wherein at least one of the equilibrating vessels (5, 6, 7) for the liquid heat exchanger has a connecting line (8) for supplying the gas phase above the liquid level therein to an analysis device (9), which determines the composition of the supplied gas phase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: BASF SE
    Inventors: Gerhard Olbert, Jobst Rüdiger von Watzdorf, Thomas Krug
  • Publication number: 20100011839
    Abstract: A system for detecting leaks in mattresses. The system allows for the detection of small holes in a mattress by applying pressurized gas or fluid to the mattress and observing the escape of gas or fluid through tears and incisions in the mattress cover in the formation of bubbles in a layer of solution covering the mattress cover. In an alternate embodiment, the escape of gas or fluid through the small holes produces ultrasonic vibrations, which an ultrasonic listening device detects, allowing an operator to determine the location of the holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Robert K. Browning
  • Patent number: 7647818
    Abstract: A process for testing the tightness of containers includes making available a first fluid in the container interior space that is different from a second fluid surrounding the container, creating a negative pressure in the container interior space, testing the interior surfaces of the container side wall for traces of second fluid penetration, and possibly localizing any entry points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: EADS Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Martin Voglsinger
  • Patent number: 7647817
    Abstract: The invention discloses a loss detection system to determine and monitor containment losses for open channel networks (10). The system includes at least first and second flow regulators (26, 28) to allow flow of liquid into and out of at least one pool (10) respectively. First and second flow sensors co-operate with respective flow regulators (26, 28) and a computational means communicates with flow regulators (26, 28) and the flow sensors to control operation of flow regulators (26, 28). The computational means determines the containment losses by calculating the measured flow into at least one pool (10) through at least first flow regulator (26) and subtracting the measured flow out of at least one pool (10) through at least second regulator (28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Rubicon Research Pty Ltd
    Inventor: David Aughton
  • Publication number: 20100000297
    Abstract: An apparatus for determining the integrity of an antenna system, including a controller, at least one valve operationally connected to the controller, a source of pressurized gas, at least one microwave antenna and a pressure sensor. The at least one microwave antenna is fluidly connected to the pressurized gas by way of the at least one valve. The pressure sensor is in communication with the controller. The pressure sensor senses the pressure of the pressurized gas. The controller is configured to check for a gas leak in the at least one microwave antenna by checking for a change in the pressure with the at least one valve being alternatively opened and closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: Thaddeus M. Jones
  • Patent number: 7641382
    Abstract: In a deposited-film formation apparatus or process having the means or steps of evacuating the inside of an inside-evacuatable chamber through an evacuation piping by an evacuation means, feeding a material gas into the chamber while evacuating the inside of the chamber, and applying a high-frequency power to form a deposited film on a substrate disposed inside the chamber, a leak is detected on the basis of a measured value of a temperature sensor which detects the heat of reaction that is generated when the material gas fed into the chamber reacts with oxygen contained in air having entered from the outside, so as to be able to stop the material gas feeding. In deposited-film formation apparatus or processes making use of spontaneously ignitable gases, the leak can quickly be detected when air enters the chamber because of any unexpected accident such as a break of piping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiroshi Izawa, Hiroshi Echizen, Hirokazu Ohtoshi, Masatoshi Tanaka
  • Patent number: 7634938
    Abstract: The aspects of the present invention provides for an apparatus for conveying air into foam so that the flow of air within the foam may be monitored to determine one or more characteristics of the foam. The apparatus includes a nozzle and an adjustable member having a substantially planar surface. The nozzle is configured for operative connection to an air flow meter. The nozzle includes a tube sized and dimensioned to be inserted easily into the foam. The tube has a wall and an aperture formed in the wall. The aperture is sized and dimensioned to allow air to flow through the aperture and into the foam, and the aperture extends partially about the circumference of the tube. The adjustable member is operatively connected to the nozzle. The member adjusts axially to control the depth of insertion into the foam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Ivan Neil Liverman, Mark Edmund Maresh, Christopher John Sattora, Eric Allen Stegner, Robert William Stegner
  • Publication number: 20090308139
    Abstract: An apparatus for checking or monitoring a vacuum drawn by a suction cup used in connection with a material handling system. The apparatus including a faceplate and a handle connected to the faceplate. The handle including a vacuum gauge wherein a passageway extends from the vacuum gauge to the faceplate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Michael A. Fox
  • Patent number: 7631666
    Abstract: A reinforced flexible hose that has at least one layer of stainless steel threads braided about the outer surface of the inner core and a transparent flexible polymeric covering located over the braided stainless steel threads, thereby protecting them from abrasion and corrosion. The covering is not in intimate contact with the circumference of each thread thereby trapping pockets of air between the covering and the threads. A moisture sensitive compound is dispersed through the stainless steel threads under the transparent covering. When the compound becomes wet, it changes from a first color to a second color indicating that the hose has failed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventors: Kwan Yuen Abraham Ng, Sarah Seen Yui Chan Ng
  • Publication number: 20090301172
    Abstract: Disclosed is a leak detection cable that has an outer jacket layer and a four wire construction in a flat wire configuration that is twisted in a helix. Detection cables are disposed on the exterior surface adjacent openings of the jacket to allow for detection of aqueous fluids. The wire is twisted in a helix to allow adjacent detector wires to easily detect aqueous fluids. Disparate materials are used for the jacket and the coatings of the wires, to allow the jacket to be easily removed from the wires without affecting the integrity of the coatings of the wires. The four flat wire configuration is sized and spaced for easy connection to an insulation displacement connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Donald M. Raymond
  • Publication number: 20090297897
    Abstract: The present invention provides a process and apparatus for monitoring and inhibiting leaks from a hydrogen gas fueling system. A fueling event controller measures the pressure of the hydrogen gas before, during and after a fueling operation and if certain pressure values are exceeded, can shut down the hydrogen gas fueling system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Robert Walter BOYD, Michael CIOTTI, Michael MCGOWAN
  • Publication number: 20090299660
    Abstract: A method for utility monitoring to ascertain unidentified utility consumption, having the steps of: a) providing a utility; b) passing the utility through a primary meter; c) supplying the utility to a plurality of secondary meters after the utility passes through the primary meter; d) measuring a first amount of the utility passing through the primary meter over a first time period; e) measuring the sum of the utility supplied to the plurality of secondary meters over the first time period; and f) determining a difference between the first amount of the utility and the sum of the utility supplied to the plurality of secondary meters over the first time period, wherein the difference is an amount of unidentified utility consumption. Also disclosed is a system for utility monitoring to ascertain unidentified utility consumption. The system has a utility, a primary meter, and a plurality of secondary meters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: Dan Winter
  • Publication number: 20090293591
    Abstract: A collecting line for leakage monitoring in an installation is permeable to a substance to be monitored in at least one subarea extending along the longitudinal direction. The collecting line is formed of at least two subsections that are spaced from a first end of the collecting line. The distance between the second subsection and the first end is larger than the distance between the first subsection and the first end. The permeability to the substance to be monitored is higher in the first subsection than in the second subsection. A device having the collecting line is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: AREVA NP GMBH
    Inventor: Patrick Fleischer