Leakage Patents (Class 73/40)
  • Publication number: 20110100095
    Abstract: A passive leak detector for a glovebox glove is disclosed. Pressure drop inside the glove is measured overnight to determine if there is a leak in the glovebox glove. Additionally, the glovebox is fire retardant and shields against radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: Los Alamos National Security, LLC
    Inventors: Michael E. Cournoyer, Paul J. Contreras
  • Patent number: 7934415
    Abstract: A hydrostatic testing tool for testing containers, hoses or the like under high pressures. The testing tool having a coupling that threadably engages a threaded aperture of a test container without having to be rotated into the threaded aperture. The hydrostatic testing tool may be hooked up to a source of pressurized medium and the tool includes a container-engaging head having a plurality of collet segments that each have a threaded surface that can expand radially outward, partially due to the force of the pressurized medium, to engage a threaded aperture of the test container, allowing for the formation of a liquid and/or gas tight seal under high pressures. The testing tool further includes an actuating unit connected to the head that controls the movement of the collet segments with a piston or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Airmo, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles R. Smida, Darrell E. Morse, Daniel L. Lozinski
  • Patent number: 7921694
    Abstract: A leak detector for detecting a leak in a line includes a transmitting device for generating radiation to be coupled into the line. By a receiving device, radiation that has emerged from the line through a leak is received, as a result of which the leak becomes detectable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Heiko Bühring
  • Publication number: 20110081562
    Abstract: A leak detection sensor for detecting a leakage of an electrolyte solution in a flow battery system is provided. The sensor includes a sensor housing, the sensor housing being at least partially surrounded by a fluid and having mounted therein at least one light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventors: Gopalakrishnan R. Parakulam, Saroj Kumar Sahu, Rick Winter
  • Patent number: 7920983
    Abstract: A computerized method for monitoring a water utility network, the water utility network comprising a network of pipes for delivering water to consumers and a plurality of meters positioned within the pipes across the water distribution network. The method includes receiving meter data representing parameters measured by the meters, such as flow, pressure, chlorine level, pH and turbidity of the water being distributed through the pipes. The method also includes receiving secondary data from sources external to the meters and representing conditions affecting consumption of water in a region serviced by the water utility network such as weather and holidays. The meter and secondary data is analyzed using statistical techniques to identify water network events including leakage events and other events regarding quantity and quality of water flowing through the pipes and operation of the water network. The events are reported to users via a user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: TaKaDu Ltd.
    Inventors: Amir Peleg, Amitai Armon, Uri Barkay, Haggai Scolnicov, Shai Gutner
  • Patent number: 7918126
    Abstract: A subsea leak detection system is disclosed which includes a plurality of subsea leak detection sensors and a leak detection controller adapted to receive leak detection data from the plurality of subsea leak detection sensors and direct the sensing activities of the plurality of subsea leak detection sensors based upon the received leak detection data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel McStay, Gordon Shiach, Aidan Nolan
  • Publication number: 20110067487
    Abstract: A method for testing the operability of a tank shutoff valve of a fuel tank system which is controlled by valves includes performing defined triggering of the tank shutoff valve and simultaneous introduction of an overpressure or partial vacuum into the fuel tank system via a pressure source, and the operability of the tank shutoff valve is determined on the basis of a variable which characterizes the introduction of the overpressure or partial vacuum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventors: Silke Haag, Andreas Pape, Carsten Kluth, Uwe Nusser
  • Publication number: 20110067486
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for liquid leak detection includes a first and second flexible members each constructed of an electrically conductive material that is in a normally open circuit state. Also included is a liquid wicking permeable surrounding sidewall that is positioned adjacent to the first and second flexible members, the liquid permeable surrounding sidewall is constructed of a non electrically conductive material. Operationally, the liquid wicking permeable surrounding sidewall becomes electrically conductive when a liquid is present in the liquid wicking permeable surrounding sidewall, facilitating the first and second flexible members to move to a closed circuit state that results in a perceptible output. Additionally, included is a liquid permeable planar web reinforcing element that is oriented adjacent to the liquid wicking permeable surrounding sidewall wherein the liquid permeable planar web reinforcing element is oppositely disposed of the first and second flexible members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventor: Kirk Dryden
  • Patent number: 7905150
    Abstract: The invention relates to a test device for simultaneously exposing a disk-shaped test specimen to a flowing and pressurized test gas and mechanical load as well as an associated test method. The test device is comprised of the following components: a specimen seat, which is designed in such a way that an edge area of the test specimen rests on the specimen seat and an inner area of the test specimen is accessible from its upper side and lower side; a ram arranged above the specimen seat, with which a presettable mechanical load can be exerted on the upper side of the test specimen; and a gas feed plate arranged beneath the specimen seat, with which the test gas can be conveyed to the lower side of the test specimen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Bam Dundesanstalt fuer Materialforschung und-Pruefung
    Inventors: Axel Kranzmann, Daniela Hünert
  • Patent number: 7905131
    Abstract: A resin leak detector includes a pressure sensor element and a leak determination unit. The pressure sensor element detects a pressure in a case cavity. That is, when resin leaks into a space between an upper circuit case and a lower circuit case, the pressure in the case cavity decreases temporarily. The decrease of the pressure in the case cavity is detected by the pressure sensor element based on comparison between a detected pressure and a predetermined lower limit. The resin leak into the upper and lower circuit case is detected without cutting an outer case of an electronic device such as an acceleration sensor or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Tatsuya Watanabe, Masahiko Imoto, Yoshinari Goshima
  • Publication number: 20110056274
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a leak-testing method for a test container comprising: a first step (102) during which volatile organic compound background noise is measured in an atmospheric pressure chamber, with a volatile organic compound trace sensor, and a second step (105) during which a volatile organic compound concentration is measured within the atmospheric pressure chamber receiving a container defining a bounded internal space within which a volatile organic compound is present, with the volatile organic compound trace sensor, and during which the measurement of the background noise is compared with the measurement of the volatile organic compound concentration, so as to detect a leak in said test container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventors: Philippe Bunod, Sylvain Colliard
  • Publication number: 20110048110
    Abstract: Disclosed are aqueous chemical leak detection cables that provide protection to sensor wires by using a conductive polymer coating that is resistant to corrosion by aqueous chemicals. In addition, non-conductive, liquid pervious layers may surround one or more of the sensor wires to assist in preventing false detection of an aqueous chemical leak as a result of various non-liquid contaminants. The non-conductive, liquid pervious layer may comprise spirally wrapped or braided, non-hydroscopic, non-conductive monofilament fibers, or a continuous, non-conductive pervious coating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventor: Donald M. Raymond
  • Publication number: 20110048109
    Abstract: Methods are disclosed for inspecting a cylindrical porous ceramic body by positioning a diffuser near, and spaced apart from, the first end of a ceramic body; flowing a tracer flow toward the diffuser, wherein a first portion of the tracer flow passes through the diffuser, and a second portion of the tracer flow does not pass through the diffuser, the first and second portions of the tracer flow then entering the first end of the ceramic body, wherein the average velocity of the first portion of the tracer flow entering the ceramic body VAVG1 is lower than the average velocity of the second portion of the tracer flow entering the ceramic body VAVG2; directing light toward the second end of the ceramic body; and detecting reflected light coming from a location proximate the second transverse face at the second end of the ceramic body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventors: Balram Suman, Srinivasa Rao Vaddiraju, Wei Xu
  • Publication number: 20110040502
    Abstract: A device is provided for monitoring the integrity of a flow circuit in fluid communication with a receptacle. The flow circuit comprises a pumping device for transferring fluid through the flow circuit. The device operates according to a monitoring method in which a pressure signal is received from a pressure sensor, the pressure signal being indicative of fluid pressure in the receptacle or the flow circuit. The pressure signal is then processed for detection of a beating signal. The beating signal manifests itself as an amplitude modulation of the pressure signal and is formed by interference between pressure waves generated by a pulse generator associated with the receptacle and pressure waves generated by the pumping device. The integrity of the flow circuit is determined based at least partly on the presence or absence of the beating signal. The device and the flow circuit may be part of an apparatus for extracorporeal blood treatment, and the method may be implemented as a computer program product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventors: Martin Furmanski, Andres Roslund, Bo Olde, Kristian Solem
  • Patent number: 7879613
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for a system for maintaining hydrogen purity in an electrical power generator. The purity system includes: a generator, a hydrogen generator configured to provide hydrogen gas to the generator, a purity monitor for detecting the level of hydrogen purity in the generator and providing a signal when the purity drops below a predetermined threshold. The system automatically compensates for gas loss or contamination to maintain the desired level of efficiency in the electrical generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Proton Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: A. John Speranza, Luisa Gudino
  • Patent number: 7881852
    Abstract: A method for checking an exhaust-gas section of a combustion engine for a leak, including the following: introducing secondary air into the exhaust-gas section of the combustion engine via a secondary-air valve, determining a measured value that indicates the magnitude of the relative pressure changes due to the expelling of exhaust gas from the combustion engine upstream from the secondary-air valve, and detecting the leak in the exhaust-gas section as a function of the measured value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignees: Robert Bosch GmbH, Audi AG
    Inventors: Detlef Heinrich, Anette Luther
  • Patent number: 7874201
    Abstract: The leakage search assembly has a main device which contains a vacuum pump and a test gas sensor, and a hand-held sniffing probe. Capillary lines which connect the sniffing probe to the basic assembly contain valves by means of which these lines can be selectively opened. In a leakage search mode, the capillary line having the larger cross section is open. This results in leaks also being found from a greater distance. The dead time before response of the test gas sensor is shortened. Once a leak has been located, the assembly is switched to the leakage rate measurement mode, in which only the capillary line with the smaller cross section is open. This results in quantitative determination of the leakage rate with high accuracy and high stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: INFICON GmbH
    Inventors: Werner Grosse Bley, Sandra Seitz
  • Patent number: 7875126
    Abstract: There is provide an apparatus for washing and disinfecting an endoscope having a duct for detecting a water leakage, the duct having an opening to which a fitting is attached. The apparatus comprises a nozzle unit having a nozzle to supply a gas into the duct via the fitting in a case where the nozzle is inserted into the fitting and a base member holding the nozzle member. The apparatus further comprises a gas supplying unit capable of supplying the gas to the nozzle, a shifting unit capable of shifting the base member toward the fitting of the endoscope, and a controlling unit controlling drive of the shifting unit to shift the base toward the fitting and to drive of the gas supplying unit to allow the nozzle to blow the gas from before the nozzle reaches the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Olympus Medical Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Toshiaki Noguchi, Eiri Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7867769
    Abstract: Analyzing the pressure profile generated during a predetermined period of time prior to the end of an aspiration or dispensing process and comparing a pressure reading to predetermined values to determine if the aspiration or dispensing pipette was free of clogs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc.
    Inventors: William David Dunfee, Mark Henry Sprenkle
  • Publication number: 20110000283
    Abstract: Aspects of the invention include methods and devices for manufacturing and testing microfluidic chips having at least one capillary for through-flow of a fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Inventors: Ronny van 't Oever, Marko Theodoor Blom
  • Publication number: 20110000282
    Abstract: A passive leak detector for a glovebox glove is disclosed. Pressure drop inside the glove is measured overnight to determine if there is a leak in the glovebox glove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Applicant: LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL SECURITY, LLC
    Inventors: Michael E. Cournoyer, Paul J. Contreras
  • Patent number: 7864064
    Abstract: The present invention relates to detection and alarm systems for predicting and detecting the location of spills, leaks, emissions, and/or pollution sources, i.e., unwanted fluid (liquid/gas) flow/escape, at refineries, e.g., oil and gas refineries, and plants, e.g., petrochemical, chemical, pharmaceutical, and food processing plants, and avoiding said unwanted flow/escape. According to one embodiment, said system comprises at least one detector, at least one battery powered radio frequency transmitter, preferably, according to one embodiment, a 900 megahertz spread spectrum transmitter, and a central processing location which, according to one embodiment, is preferably capable of handling up to 3000 points in a single cell site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Fugitive Emissions Detection Device, Inc.
    Inventors: Rick A. Lawson, Michael S. Kelly
  • Publication number: 20100331768
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for checking and/or monitoring the leak tightness of a plurality of pneumatically or hydraulically actuated actuators of a machine, in particular a plurality of valve actuators of a medical treatment machine, wherein pressure is exerted on the actuators in different combinations during the operation of the machine, wherein the common pressure drop occurring during a stationary operating phase at the actuators on which pressure is exerted in the respective combination is measured for a plurality of different combinations of actuators on which pressure is exerted, and wherein a respective leak tightness value is determined for individual actuators and/or groups of actuators with the pressure drop which is measured for those combinations and in which the respective actuator and/or the respective group of actuators on which pressure is exerted being taken into said leak tightness value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventors: Frank L. Hedmann, Stephan Klatte
  • Patent number: 7857968
    Abstract: The system comprises one or more of the following: primary treatment units, flexible pipes, and optionally, one or more pumps. The system is designed and installed in a manner that enables the flow of liquid to be predominantly due to gravity, although one or more pumps may optionally be included at key positions. The system can be sealed and pressure tested in order for optimal performance to be achieved during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Clearford Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Richard W. Connelly, Duane Smith
  • Patent number: 7849728
    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: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Veeder-Root Company
    Inventor: Robert P. Hart
  • Publication number: 20100300129
    Abstract: A method of detecting loss of refrigerant within a cooling system of the type having a condenser, a refrigerant receiver in fluid communication with the condenser, a sensor configured to detect a level of refrigerant within the receiver, an evaporator in fluid communication with the receiver, and a pump or compressor in fluid communication with the evaporator and the condenser, includes establishing a baseline measurement of refrigerant mass contained in the receiver with the sensor during certain power loads applied to the cooling system, monitoring a mass of refrigerant in the receiver with the sensor at a certain power load applied to the cooling system, and identifying whether the monitored mass of refrigerant is less than the baseline measurement of refrigerant mass over a predetermined period of time. Systems for detecting loss of refrigerant are further disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: American Power Conversion Corporation
    Inventors: John H. Bean, JR., James Richard Roesch
  • Patent number: 7836750
    Abstract: An example of a gas detection system includes a gas chromatograph oven, a gas detector, a sample gas moving device, and a flow detector. An example of a method for detecting gas includes flowing a sample gas from the oven, determining whether the flow rate equals or is less than a minimum, and determining whether the concentration of a first gas of the sample gas, such as a combustible gas, equals or exceeds a maximum. If either the flow rate or the concentration indicates an error condition or is out of bounds, an alarm response is initiated. The alarm response may include shutting off the flow of the first gas to the oven, and flowing a second gas, such as a safe gas, to the oven.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Bruker Chemical Analysis, BV
    Inventors: Nils van den Heuvel, Hans van Schaik
  • Publication number: 20100288017
    Abstract: Disclosed are aqueous chemical leak detection cables that provide protection to sensor wires by using a conductive polymer coating that is resistant to corrosion by aqueous chemicals. In addition, non-conductive, liquid pervious layers may surround one or more of the sensor wires to assist in preventing false detection of a aqueous chemical leak as a result of various non-liquid contaminants. The non-conductive, liquid pervious layer may comprise braided, non-hydroscopic, non-conductive fibers, or a continuous, non-conductive pervious coating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventor: Donald M. Raymond
  • Patent number: 7832367
    Abstract: A furnace panel leak monitoring and control system for fluid-cooled panels in high temperature industrial furnaces such as, for example, smelting furnaces, blast furnaces and electric arc furnaces. The system performs at least two and up to four functions simultaneously. At minimum, the system includes one or more temperature sensors received within the body of the panel to monitor temperature within the metal of the panel itself, and pressure sensors installed proximate the inlet and outlet of each panel coolant fluid circuit, which circuits are preferably periodically automatically tested, to check for leaks in the coolant circuits. In addition, the system preferably includes temperature and flow sensors for monitoring the furnace panel coolant circuit(s) for temperature and flow fluctuations, respectively, which may be indicative of leaking cooling circuits. The system triggers visual and/or audible alarms to alert a human operator of an apparent coolant fluid leak situation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Berry Metal Company
    Inventors: Louis Scott Valentas, Eric Paul Tierney
  • Publication number: 20100281952
    Abstract: A differential comparative pressure monitoring system (10) for monitoring the structural integrity of a structure or component (30) comprises a pressure source (12); a first fluidic circuit (14), and a reference fluidic circuit (16) which are connected in parallel to the pressure source (12); and a monitoring device (18). The first and reference fluidic circuits (14) and (16) are formed to have substantially matched characteristics. These characteristics include volumetric capacity of each of the circuits, fluid flow rates through the circuits, their temperature characteristics, and diffusion characteristics. The first circuit (14) comprises a sensor element (20) which is sealed to a surface (28) on the structure or component (30) being monitored by the system (10). The reference circuit (16) is in fluidic isolation from the surface (28) of the structure or component (30).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventors: Nigel Laxton, Henry Kroker
  • Patent number: 7818995
    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: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Tubemaster, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford L. Johns, Daniel D. Sympson
  • Patent number: 7814773
    Abstract: A reference leak (10) includes a first substrate (20), a second substrate (40) disposed and bonded on the first substrate, and predetermined numbers of leak channels (14) defined in at least one of the first and second substrates. Oblique walls of the leak channels are formed by crystal planes of the at least one of the first and second substrates, the oblique walls thereby being aligned according to such crystal planes. A method for making a reference leak is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignees: Tsinghua University, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Liang Liu, Shuai-Ping Ge, Zhao-Fu Hu, Bing-Chu Du, Cai-Lin Guo, Pi-Jin Chen, Shou-Shan Fan
  • Patent number: 7817050
    Abstract: A system determines the carbon footprint of a compressed gas leak. The system comprises an ultrasonic detector to detect a compressed gas leak, a storage device storing information on the type of gas, the compressor efficiency, and the carbon emissions necessary to generate electricity to drive the compressor. A processing unit includes software that determines an amount of electrical energy needed to recharge the lost compressed gas based on the compressor efficiency and calculates the carbon emissions created by the amount of electrical energy. A method monitoring for gas leaks comprises detecting ultrasonic emissions, generating an electrical signal representative of the compressed gas leak, and calculating an amount of electrical energy needed to recharge the lost compressed gas. The method further includes calculating the carbon footprint based on the carbon emissions necessary for the electrical power generation system that drives the compressor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: U.E. Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A. Goodman, Gary Mohr, William Bishop
  • Publication number: 20100262078
    Abstract: A system and method for adjusting insulin infusion volume based on air in an infusion set tube includes inputting at least one location and length of an air bubble along the infusion set tube. An air bubble volume is determined in the infusion set tube. An insulin infusion volume is determined based on a desired insulin infusion. A determination is then made whether the desired insulin infusion would include the air bubble volume based on the inputted location and length of the air bubble. The air bubble volume is added to the insulin infusion volume to make an adjusted insulin infusion volume if the insulin infusion volume includes the air bubble.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Blomquist
  • Patent number: 7810377
    Abstract: In a linear transport device (30) for tear-off lids (20), the latter are tested for the impermeability of the seal and the foil in a test device (9) that is integrated into the linear transport device. The lid is fixed between a pressure chamber (43) and a measuring chamber (47, 48, 49) in an airtight manner and a test pressure is applied to the lid from the underside. An air-permeable support (47) in the measuring chamber exerts pressure on the upper face of the lid and any increase in air pressure in the measuring chamber caused by a degree of permeability is detected and evaluated by a sensor (55). A burst test can be carried out in the same test device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Soudronic AG
    Inventors: Peter Gysi, Marcel Oberholzer
  • Publication number: 20100251751
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for monitoring the gas tightness of a cooling system for a refrigerated vehicle comprising the following steps: recording of a chronological temperature sequence at least at a first point in the cooling system and the determination of any change in the temperature at the first point within a first time interval and comparison of the change with a first reference value and the triggering of a first warning signal in the event that the change exceeds the first reference value; and/or subjecting a line section of the cooling system to a positive pressure and blocking this line section and recording a chronological pressure sequence at least at a first point in the line section and the determination of any change in the pressure in the second point within a second time interval and comparison of the change with a second reference value and the triggering of a second warning signal in the event that the change exceeds the second reference value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme Pour L'Etude Et L'Exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Franz Lurken, Helmut Henrich, Reinhard Kost
  • Publication number: 20100242576
    Abstract: A leak detecting apparatus for detecting flaws in a surface submerged in liquid is provided that includes a vacuum head for contacting the surface and forming a vacuum chamber filled with liquid between the surface and the vacuum head, the vacuum head including a multi-surface elastomer seal for contacting the surface; and a vacuum generator for pulling gas through a flaw in the surface into the vacuum head and to the gas separation chamber so as to displace the liquid from the gas separation chamber. A method for detecting flaws in a surface submerged in liquid is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: AREVA NP INC
    Inventors: Gregory Jacob Denne, James Edwin McCann
  • Patent number: 7805259
    Abstract: A method for detecting an operation malfunction of a leakage inspector causes the leakage inspector to execute a calibration process and an inspection process. The calibration process seals air inside a first device serving as a reference device and measures changes in pressure over two time intervals. The inspection process seals air inside a second device to be checked for a leak and measures changes in pressure over two time intervals. A ratio is calculated from these measured changes in pressure and the ratio is used to determine whether an operation malfunction occurs in the leakage inspector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Cosmo Instruments Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akio Furuse
  • Publication number: 20100241063
    Abstract: A liquid flow sensing system comprises a pump system configured to deliver a pre-determined volume V of liquid, and a measuring system comprising a chamber connected to the pump system and to an outlet system, the chamber bounded by an elastic membrane configured to be displaced elastically by an amplitude that enables said pre-determined volume V of liquid to be injected in the chamber. The measuring system further comprises a membrane displacement sensor configured to measure at least a portion of a decay characteristic of said membrane displacement amplitude after injection of the pre-determined volume V, into a value that may be used for determining absolute or relative viscosity of the liquid or changes in flow resistance downstream of the sensing system or for determining the presence of gas bubbles in a liquid flow circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: Sensile Pat AG
    Inventors: Sigfrid Straessler, Thomas Geiges, Simon Kuenzi
  • Patent number: 7788967
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for detecting small leaks in double wall containers using enhanced tracer dispersal and detection techniques. More specifically, economical, substantially closed leak detection apparatuses, methods and systems are disclosed that conserve interstitial fluid between container walls enhancing the duration and sensitivity of leak detection testing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy D. Golding, David Rabb, Ken Huey
  • Publication number: 20100218597
    Abstract: A covered cable suitable for detecting the presence of corrosive liquids is disclosed. In an embodiment the cable includes two sensing wires wrapped around a core member, at least one of the sensing wires being surrounded by a non-conductive surface layer. In an alternate embodiment the cable includes two sensing wires wrapped around a core member, the sensing wires and core member being encapsulated by a non-conductive surface layer. Preferably, the cable includes insulating wires for detecting the location of a leak. When a corrosive liquid contacts the sensing wires of the cable an electrical connection is created between them. An interrupted covering covers the sensor cable. The resulting covered sensor cable is useful in wicking applications, and/or providing enhanced UV radiation resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Applicant: TYCO THERMAL CONTROLS LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth McCoy, Robert Wasley
  • Publication number: 20100212670
    Abstract: Methods and systems to enable ported respirator masks to be tested in situ to ensure that they are used effectively, including the ported masks themselves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventors: Amir H. Amighi, Frederick R. Quant, Derek R. Oberreit
  • Patent number: 7779675
    Abstract: The leak detector includes a basic device which includes a vacuum pump, a test gas sensor, and a hand-held sniffing probe. The sniffing probe is connected with the basic device via a flexible hose line which includes capillary tubes. At least two capillary tubes are provided, which are adapted to be opened via valves. Thus different capillary cross sections can be rendered operative. The dead time between the entry of the test gas into the sniffing probe and the detection by the test gas sensor can be changed and/or selected. Thus, even the smallest detectable leak rate can be changed and/or selected. The leak detector can be adapted to different requirements by the user without the need for exchanging the hose line. Further, it is possible to equip different leak detectors of the same device family with the same hose lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Inficon GmbH
    Inventors: Daniel Wetzig, Stefan Mebus
  • Publication number: 20100206051
    Abstract: A leak detection method for an air bed having an air chamber comprises adjusting the air chamber to a predetermined pressure level, sensing a first pressure value of the air chamber after a first time interval, sensing a second pressure value of the air chamber after a second time interval, determining a pressure change in the air chamber, detecting whether the air chamber is leaking by comparing the pressure change with a second pressure value, and displaying a leak detection indicator. In one embodiment, the second pressure value is a pressure change in a second air chamber. In another embodiment, the second pressure value is an expected pressure change of the air chamber that is calculated based upon changes in ambient temperature and barometric pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
    Inventor: Paul James Mahoney
  • Patent number: 7770435
    Abstract: A collector line for leakage monitoring and leakage location at a plant includes a carrier tube having a wall with openings formed therein, which are sealed with silicone rubber. This makes it possible to use the collector line during low ambient temperatures. A device and a method for leakage monitoring and leakage location and a pipeline having a collector line, are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Areva NP GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Issel, Peter Jax
  • Patent number: 7765853
    Abstract: Optical metrology methods, apparatuses, and systems for detecting seal integrity. These comprise changing an air pressure inside a chamber to an excitation pressure level when the chamber is placed over a segment of a surface of a structure having one or more seal features and determining whether the integrity of any of the one or more seal features has been compromised by determining, using an optical system, whether any of the one or more seal features have been deformed by the changing of the air pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Morteza Safai, Gary E. Georgeson, James H. Lee, Scott W. Lea
  • Patent number: 7752904
    Abstract: A structure subjected to stresses that can lead to structural failure. The structure includes first and second conductive layers and an intermediate layer therebetween formed of a dielectric, semiconductive, or resistive material, such that the first, second, and intermediate layers form in combination an electrical element, namely, a capacitive or resistive element. The electrical element is located within the structure so as to be physically responsive to transitory and permanent distortions of the structure resulting from extrinsic and intrinsic sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Purdue Research Foundation
    Inventors: Gary William Krutz, Keith Harmeyer, Michael A. Holland
  • Patent number: 7755498
    Abstract: A device and method for detecting the presence of one or more targeted liquids in volume of space where the targeted liquid is not normally present. The device includes a sensor that can differentiate between the target fluid and a non-target fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Tyco Thermal Controls LLC
    Inventor: Kenneth McCoy
  • Patent number: 7752890
    Abstract: A method and device are disclosed that provide for detection of fluid leaks in analytical instruments and instrument systems. The leak detection device includes a collection tube, a fluid absorbing material, and a circuit that electrically couples to an indicator device. When assembled, the leak detection device detects and monitors for fluid leaks, providing a preselected response in conjunction with the indicator device when contacted by a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Karl K. Weitz, Ronald J. Moore
  • Patent number: 7743647
    Abstract: An orifice test calibration device tests the functionality of protective mask testers. The orifice test calibration device has a semi-rigid tubular channel with one end for sealing the flow outlet port of the protective mask tester and a second end for sealing the vacuum inlet port of the protective mask tester. The device also includes a sealable opening within the tubular channel and an insertable orifice plug having a set diameter for insertion into the sealable opening in order to calibrate the protective mask tester.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Joshua D. Israel, Corey L. Piepenburg, Malcolm D. Goodman