Between Fitted Parts (e.g., Joints) Patents (Class 73/46)
  • Patent number: 8689612
    Abstract: A pressure-based tester for testing an integrity of a printhead integrated circuit (IC) carrier includes a housing assembly; a cradle assembly coupled to the housing assembly and adapted to receive the printhead IC carrier, the cradle assembly further defining spouts adapted to engage with the printhead IC carrier; a regulated gas supply arranged in the housing assembly; a first gas supply line in fluid communication with the regulated gas supply; a pneumatic retaining mechanism in fluid communication with the gas supply via the first gas supply line, the pneumatic retaining mechanism for retaining the carrier in fluid communication with the spouts during testing of the platform assembly; a second gas supply line in fluid communication with the regulated gas supply, the second gas supply line being separated from the first gas supply line by a pressure regulator, the second gas supply line for supplying gas to the spouts; a pressure sensor for measuring a gas pressure at each spout and generating a signal ind
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Zamtec Ltd
    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: 8661875
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for detecting a leak in a gas precharged hydraulic accumulator having an initial gas charge entail activating a hydraulic pump to charge the gas precharged hydraulic accumulator and the hydraulic circuit associated with the gas precharged hydraulic accumulator when the hydraulic circuit and the hydraulic accumulator have a temperature that is substantially equivalent to an ambient temperature, e.g., on a cold start. The hydraulic pressure in the hydraulic circuit is monitored, and when a step in the hydraulic pressure is detected, various quantities are measured and used to determine a volumetric efficiency of the pump for use in later calculations of remaining gas amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Heng Zhou
  • Patent number: 8650934
    Abstract: A testing system for connectors usable with oil or natural gas wells using a test part connector and a control component connector. The system uses a test fluid in a test reservoir that is pumped to each connector simultaneously and using a test part pressure transducer and a control component pressure transducer to create a test response and a control response. The responses are then transmitted to a processor, which then compares the responses and presents compared results on a display, through a network and transmitted to a client device of a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Petrotechnologies, Inc.
    Inventor: David Levy
  • Patent number: 8646314
    Abstract: An externally engaging test barrier for use in testing hydrostatic pressure in a plumbing system having two abutting plumbing components. The test barrier includes a barrier body having a first face, a second face, and at least one peripheral engagement for engaging an external surface of at least one of the two abutting plumbing components to hold the barrier body in position across an end of at least one of the two abutting plumbing components. The peripheral engagement extends perpendicularly from the first face or the second face. A removable portion of the barrier body is defined by a frangible connection. The peripheral engagement of the barrier body is incapable of sealing the plumbing system during a hydrostatic pressure test, unless used in combination with a pipe coupling that forms an overlying sealing sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Gabe Coscarella
  • Patent number: 8631829
    Abstract: A method and assembly for monitoring at least one condition outside of a containment device containing a gaseous or fluid substance and an inlet and outlet attached to the containment device. The method includes the steps of providing a monitoring system having a housing surrounding the containment device extending an inlet and outlet through openings in the housing; sealing the housing and sealing around the inlet and outlet so that a cavity internal to the housing is sealed from the exterior environment; providing at least one sensor located in the cavity between the containment device and the housing; connecting the sensor to a unit for monitoring the sensor; sensing at least one parameter indicative of a leak or potential leak of the containment device or attachment of the containment device to the inlet or outlet; and providing alerts of the leak or potential leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Odyssian Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Barton E. Bennett
  • Publication number: 20140007655
    Abstract: A pressure decay testing system including a testing device for determining the reliability of connectors is provided and includes a pneumatic cylinder that raises and lowers a sealing member that closes a second end of a connector inserted in the device. A base member is adjacent pneumatic cylinder and includes a receiving surface having at least one receiving member for holding the connector. A channel is disposed therethrough though the receiving surface of the base member and aligns with an inner bore of the connector inserted in the testing device. An air line is attached to base member fluidly connecting inner bore of the connector with decay tester. Decay tester introduces a pressure differential through the channel to reach a predetermined set point pressure when the connector is closed by the testing device. Decay tester is configured to measure a change in pressure over time with respect to the predetermined set point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventor: Rudolf PAVLIK
  • Patent number: 8616047
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for regulating a fuel tank venting valve of a motor vehicle during leak testing of a fuel tank venting system where the fuel tank venting valve is arranged in a recovery line that connects a retention vessel to catch fuel vapors from a fuel tank to an inlet manifold of an operating internal combustion engine, comprising sealing the tank venting system from the atmosphere outside the motor vehicle, opening the fuel tank venting valve to expose the fuel tank and the tank venting system to a relative negative pressure present in the inlet manifold of the operating internal combustion engine and regulating the degree of opening of the tank venting valve based upon the external pressure, pA.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Oliver Grunwald, Wolfgang Ludwig, Matthias Wiese
  • Publication number: 20130319540
    Abstract: A first sealing body and a second sealing body made of a resiliently expandable material, such as Kevlar-reinforced rubber, are connected by an intermediate piece that, having a larger wall thickness, is made of the same material, and is flexible, thereby providing the device excellent ability to pass through pipe bends. Together they surround a contiguous cavity into which pressurised air can be introduced via a pressurised air connection disposed on an end plate at a rear end of the device, to expand the diameters of the sealing bodies whereupon the latter tightly close off a test space in a pipe connection. A material feeding connection is connected to a discharge opening in a threaded bushing connecting the intermediate piece to the second sealing body, and a cable connection is connected to a camera facing to the outside that is attached to the bushing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: HESAN GMBH
    Inventor: Rolf Hegner
  • Publication number: 20130299238
    Abstract: A device for monitoring a seal assembly includes a body having a central axis and a through-passage, a piston slidably disposed in the through-passage and biased towards one end of the body by a biasing member, and a signaling assembly coupled to the body. The signaling assembly includes an indicator and a switch coupled to the indicator. The through-passage and the piston are exposed to a fluid pressure in the seal assembly. The piston is configured to translate axially in the through-passage to transition the switch between a first position and a second position, allowing the switch to transition the indicator between a deactivated state and an activated state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventor: Randall Ferrain Weaver
  • Patent number: 8479565
    Abstract: Provided are a fluid conveying tube and a fluid leakage detecting system which can convey a cryogenic fluid such as LNG and which can quickly and reliably detect leakage of the fluid within the tube and the position of the leakage. An optical fiber is continuously wound over the entire length of a flexible tube. Leakage information detected by an optical fiber temperature sensor is transmitted via a terminal to an externally provided temperature measurement device. Meanwhile, when similar leakage occurs in the vicinity of a coupling section, the gas pressure inside the heat insulating layer or the like increases due to the pressure of LNG within a corrugated tube or a pressure generated as a result of evaporation of LNG. When the pressure inside the heat insulating layer increases, information representing a change in the gas pressure is transmitted to a terminal via a hollow pipe. A tube or the like is externally connected to the terminal, and is connected to a pressure meter or like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignees: Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd., Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation
    Inventors: Masaki Izumo, Yasuhiro Naka, Kenichi Ishii, Toru Kagoura
  • Patent number: 8316697
    Abstract: An analytical instrument and associated method for ascertaining gas transmission rates of a target-analyte through a capped mouth of a bottle. The instrument employs a unique fixture that includes (1) a selectively openable and closeable enclosure defining a chamber, and (2) a mounting post extending into the chamber. The post is configured and arranged to sealingly engage an inner surface of a capped bottle neck, wherein mounting of a capped bottle neck onto the post sealingly separates the chamber into a first compartment inside the mounted capped bottle neck and a second compartment outside the mounted capped bottle neck. The fixture is configured and arranged with passageways for introducing a pressurized target-analyte-containing fluid into the first compartment of the chamber and flushing the second compartment of the chamber with a target-analyte-free fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Mocon, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Tuomela, Slava Berezovskiy
  • Patent number: 8316696
    Abstract: A sensor for detecting surface cracks in a component or structure. A preferred embodiment of the device comprises a flat body portion with a central hole through which a main structural bolt passes. The body portion has a throughway providing fluid communication between an exterior port and a substantially hermetically-sealed area on the structural surface being monitored. A crack which develops in the monitored area surrounding the bolt hole will cause venting of the hermetically-sealed area, in turn causing a change in fluid pressure that can be detected and/or measured to warn of the presence of the crack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Structural Monitoring Systems Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenneth Davey, Nigel Laxton
  • Patent number: 8308857
    Abstract: A filter cassette and a method for allowing a leak to be detected are disclosed, in which the filter cassette comprises a main body defining a first chamber. The main body includes an inlet and an outlet, a filter separating the first chamber into first and second sub-chambers, the inlet being in fluid communication with the first sub-chamber and the second sub-chamber being in fluid communication with the outlet. The main body also includes a second chamber is defined by the main body and the filter, wherein in absence of a leak the second chamber is substantially not in fluid communication with the first chamber. The main body further includes a port in fluid communication with the second chamber, whereby measuring a fluid characteristic in the second chamber by means of the port allows a detection of a leak, i.e. an external leak or a bypass leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: SCL Medtech Inc.
    Inventors: Sylvain Couillard, Simon Caron
  • Patent number: 8289173
    Abstract: The leak detection band is mounted about a pipe joint for generating an alert signal when a liquid leak from the pipe joint is detected. The leak detection band includes an annular mount having a pair of opposed annular edges and an annular recess formed in an interior surface thereof adjacent one of the annular edges. A transmitter is attached to the annular mount, and a pair of substantially semicircular leads are provided. Each lead has opposed first and second ends and a central portion. The first ends are electrically connected to the transmitter. The second ends and central portions are disposed within the recess so that the second ends are mounted opposite one another with a gap being formed therebetween. When a conductive liquid leaks from the pipe joint, the conductive liquid fills the gap, closing a transmitting circuit, causing the transmitter to transmit an alert signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
    Inventors: Rached Ben-Mansour, Khaled Mezghani
  • Patent number: 8261595
    Abstract: A method detection of leakage through at least one first valve includes admitting an amount of fluid into a first control volume in operable communication with the at least one first valve, thereby pressurizing the first control volume. The first control volume is isolated and a rate of change of pressure in a second control volume in operable communication with the at least one first valve is measured. A system for detecting leakage across at least one first valve includes a first control volume receptive of an amount of fluid and a second control volume in flow communication with the first control volume. At least one first valve is located between the first control volume and the second control volume, and a rate of change in pressure in the second control volume indicates a rate of leakage through the at least one first valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Scott William Szepek, Justin Varkey John, Daniel Joseph Peczka, Bryan Edward Sweet
  • Patent number: 8261596
    Abstract: A seal assembly is provided for a joint between a first pipe segment and a second pipe segment. The seal assembly has at least one primary sealing member mounted on the first flange and at least one supplemental sealing member mounted on the first flange between the first pipe segment and the at least one primary sealing member. A first sealed containment area is formed between the at least one primary and at least one supplemental sealing members when the sealing members are compressed. A plurality of conduits are formed in the first flange. A first supply conduit is located between the at least one primary sealing member and the at least one supplemental sealing member and a return conduit is located so that the at least one primary sealing member is positioned between the supply conduit and the return conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Company
    Inventor: Lannie D. Harrison
  • Patent number: 8205484
    Abstract: A leak testing apparatus 1 includes a heat sensitive member 70 having a body 71 made of a material having high thermal conductivity. The body 71 is abutted against an outer surface of a workpiece 10 to close an opening of an inner space 11 of the workpiece 10. A pressure chamber 73 is formed inside the body 71 as arranged along the outer surface and as arranged over an area wider than the opening. Pressurized gas is introduced to the pressure chamber 73. Data on pressure change in the inner space 11 of the workpiece 10 is compensated based on inner pressure information regarding the pressure chamber 73, and leak judgment is made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Fukuda Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toru Sasaki
  • Patent number: 8186202
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing tubing to a device, the apparatus including: a first seal configured to seal the tubing to the device, the first seal having a device side in contact with the device and an interior side opposite the device side; a test sleeve configured to surround the first seal and to seal to the device using a second seal; a third seal disposed at the test sleeve and configured to seal the tubing to the test sleeve wherein the test sleeve, the second seal, and the third seal form a pressure boundary about the first seal; a test port disposed at the test sleeve, the test port being in communication with seals, wherein the test port is configured to connect to a seal test device to test the integrity of the seals in communication with the test port; and a plug configured to seal the test port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Louis F. Lafleur, Ralph Joseph Robert, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120111094
    Abstract: A tube weld seam test method and device for testing a tube weld seam (32) of a flexible tube (18) for leaks having: a first pinching device (10) and a second pinching device (12) for pinching closed the flexible tube (18) at a first position (A) and at a second position (B), the weld seam to be tested being arranged between the first and second positions (A; B); a compressing mechanism arranged for partly compressing a tube section enclosed between the first and second pinching devices (10; 12); and a pressure test device (14) arranged for testing an internal pressure of said tube section in order to test the tube weld seam for leaks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventors: Hans Almer Middelbeek, Jozefus A.C. Smit
  • Patent number: 8166804
    Abstract: A method for detecting separation in a structure that comprises at least two portions or layers affixed together comprises forming a cavity into the structure that passes through an interface formed between the two portions and plumbing the cavity to a monitoring system. A pressure differential is established between the cavity and a reference pressure to which the structure is exposed. A monitoring system monitors for a change in the pressure state of the cavity. Changes in the pressure state are indicative of a separation between the portions or layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Structural Monitoring Systems Ltd.
    Inventors: Lawrence John Walker, Nigel Laxton
  • Patent number: 8146405
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for indicating seal leakage between two components are provided. In one aspect, apparatus and methods for directing material penetrating a leaking nozzle repair shield seal to a predetermined indication point such that a user viewing such indication point is alerted to the leaking seal condition is provided. In one aspect of the present invention, a channel having six distinct sections directs the material to the indication point. These six channel sections include two annular sections extending about the periphery of a main cylindrical section and an inwardly facing surface of a flange of the nozzle repair shield. These six channel sections further include a reservoir and interconnecting channel sections. Also, a sleeve for encircling the outwardly facing surface of the main cylindrical section of the nozzle repair shield is provided and the indication point may be provided in the form of a reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: De Dietrich Process Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph John Nevadunsky, Carlos Edgar Enriquez
  • Patent number: 8130107
    Abstract: A system and method for detecting leaks using sensors to report the leak and communicate with a control unit to turn off the source of the leak once detected. A valve can be turned off in the event of a leak and embodiments employing battery power can function during loss of power such as a power blackout. Wireless sensors can be employed to detect leaks that wirelessly communicate with a control and operate solely with a designated control unit. The wireless sensors can operate using low power provided by batteries. The control panel can display alarm conditions from the sensors, including: low battery, poor signal, wet sensor, communication failure, sensor failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Timothy Meyer
  • Patent number: 8104327
    Abstract: A leak detection method for determining changes in helium concentration over time in an interstitial space between a primary vessel and a secondary vessel. The primary vessel is disposed inside a secondary vessel and charged with helium. An expected concentration of the helium in the interstitial space resulting from permeation of the primary vessel material is calculated and accounted for to determine a leak in the primary vessel. In another embodiment of the leak detection method, air flow is circulated in the interstitial space between the primary and second vessels. An abrupt change in measured concentrations can be used to determine the approximate location of the leak in the primary vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: C.G.R.S. Inc.
    Inventors: Joby L. Adams, Eric L. Hick
  • Patent number: 8096169
    Abstract: A test device for testing the integrity of a seal has a clear t-shaped liquid reservoir with three ends. A guide adapter is connected to the first end of the liquid reservoir and extends axially therefrom along an axis of the reservoir. A shaft adapter is connected to the second end of the body, opposite the first end. A test shaft with first and second ends extends axially through the first and second ends of the body and test and shaft adapters along the axis. The first end of the shaft is adapted to be connected to the rotating shaft of pump assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: John L. Bearden, Steven K. Tetzlaff
  • Publication number: 20120000273
    Abstract: A fixture for evaluating a metal-to-metal seal. A first metal seal surface and a second metal seal surface are brought into initial contact by engagement of a male connection of a first tubular component and a female connection of a second tubular component to form a metal-to-metal seal. A contact pressure regulator is provided to alter the contact load acting in the interfacial region between the first metal seal surface and the second metal seal surface in a predictable manner An inlet passage is provided to communicate test fluid to an inlet side of the metal-to-metal seal. An outlet passage is provided on an outlet side of the metal-to-metal seal. In accordance with the method, a capacity of the metal-to-metal seal is expressed as the pressure differential required to just induce leakage given a measure of absolute contact load greater than zero.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: NOETIC ENGINEERING 2008 INC.
    Inventor: Maurice Slack
  • Patent number: 8061184
    Abstract: A method to amplify the pressure effects of very small flows, or very small leaks, in contained fluid systems, and the effects of small leaks in fluid systems that have small flows such as would occur in a combustible gas system with lighted pilot lights or a contained water system with a drip watering system, while not affecting the normal operation of such fluid systems, and without interfering with the function of such small flows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: Geoffrey P. Brown
  • Patent number: 8033161
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: MSX, Incorporated
    Inventor: Thaddeus M. Jones
  • Patent number: 8028565
    Abstract: There is described a novel tool and method for the isolation and pressure-testing of connections, such as welds, between a vessel and a nozzle or branch pipe. The nozzle testing tool comprises an improved seal that expands into sealing contact as testing pressure is increased. The tool can also be easily adjusted in order to accommodate variations in nozzle configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Ceda Specialty Mechanical Services, LP
    Inventors: Horst Gotowik, Daniel Bamford, David Bamford
  • Patent number: 8006967
    Abstract: A cradle assembly for a pressure decay leak tester is provided. The assembly operatively receives a printhead integrated circuit carrier having a plurality of printing fluid paths defined therein, respective fluid inlets in fluid communication with respective fluid paths and a locating formation to facilitate correct location of the carrier on the tester. The assembly includes at least one complementary locating formation for engaging the locating formation of the carrier, and at least one fluid outlet for charging the carrier with fluid via a respective fluid inlet of the carrier. Also included is a clamping device for clamping the carrier to the fluid outlet, so that the integrity of the fluid paths is observable via pressure decay testing, and a control system operatively connected to the clamping device for controlling operation of the clamping device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
    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: 20110185793
    Abstract: A seal assembly is provided for a joint between a first pipe segment having a first flange and a second pipe segment having a second flange. The seal assembly has at least one primary sealing member mounted on the first flange and forming a loop around the first pipe segment and at least one supplemental sealing member mounted on the first flange between the first pipe segment and the at least one primary sealing member, the at least one supplemental sealing member forming a loop around the first pipe segment. The seal assembly also has a first sealed containment area that is formed between the at least one primary and at least one supplemental sealing members when the at least one primary and at least one supplemental sealing members are compressed and a plurality of conduits formed in the first flange and extending from a first face of the first flange oriented away from the second flange to a second face of the first flange oriented toward the second flange.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATION
    Inventor: Lannie D. Harrison
  • Patent number: 7987699
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
    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: 7988452
    Abstract: A test head (10) for breathing mask testing includes a hard head part (12) formed of a hard material and includes a face side (18) and a soft face front (14) of a defined thickness applied to the face side (18) of the hard head part (12). The soft face front (14) has a simulated human face surface defining a mask seal contact surface (22). A breathing mask testing system is also provided including the testing head (10) including a human face surface defining a mask seal contact surface (18) and a mouth opening connected to a respiration tube (50). A testing device (32) is provided with a test head adapter (30) protruding from the testing device (32). The hard head part (12) has a support portion (29) with an adapter interface for the adapter (30). The adapter interface includes a rotational position fixing mechanism for fixing the hard head part (10) to the adapter (30) in one of a plurality of rotational positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Roland Eiwen, Björn Ehler
  • Patent number: 7984640
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd.
    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: 7971472
    Abstract: Provided is a leak tester for a carrier for printhead integrated circuits. The carrier has at least one fluid inlet in fluid communication with a plurality of fluid outlets via discrete fluid paths. The tester includes a support assembly that includes at least one receptacle shaped and configured to receive at least one respective carrier, and a pressurized fluid supply arranged on the support assembly and configured to supply pressurized fluid to the fluid inlets, the pressurized fluid supply incorporating a sealing mechanism configured to engage the fluid inlets in a sealing manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
    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: 20110154886
    Abstract: A leak detection feature for a fluid conduit. The leak detection feature facilitates the monitoring of fluid leaks at the interface of two adjoining conduit flange fittings. An embodiment of a flange fitting with a leak detection feature for a fluid conduit having an opening. The flange fitting includes a flange body around the opening of the fluid conduit, a leak detection passageway formed in the flange body, and a leak detection port formed in the flange body. The flange body has a sealing face surface configured to mate with a cooperating flange fitting, and the leak detection passageway terminates at the sealing face surface. The leak detection port is in fluid communication with the leak detection passageway, and the leak detection port is configured for fluid communication with a leak sensing apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: James A. Carns, Theron L. Cutler, Mark A. Shelly
  • Patent number: 7963149
    Abstract: A method and device for determining the hydraulic leakage rate of liquid-conveying parts, in particular injection valves for internal combustion engines, place the liquid-conveying part into a test body, and the liquid-conveying part is charged with a test liquid under a particular pressure, and a carrier gas stream is provided in a flow duct of the test body, and a vapor mixture behind the liquid-conveying part is conducted to an analyzer, and a measurement and analysis are carried out, using the analyzer, of the hydraulic leakage rate of the liquid-conveying part via the concentration of test liquid in the vapor mixture, the carrier gas stream being brought in via a nozzle element close to the leakage point of the liquid-conveying part, and/or a heating of the vapor mixture being provided behind the liquid-conveying part for complete conversion into the gas phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Maier, Frank Mozer, Eberhard Waibler
  • Publication number: 20110138886
    Abstract: A method involves inspecting/testing a refrigeration system. One or more conduits or other components cooperate with the compressor, heat rejection heat exchanger, expansion device, and heat absorption heat exchanger to define a refrigerant flowpath. The inspecting/testing method comprises placing a plurality of collars over respective joints along the refrigerant flowpath. The collars each define a space that may be exposed to one or more sensors. Based upon input from the sensors, the presence or absence of leaks at the joints is determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: CARRIER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Patrick McDonald, David M. Embler, Curtis E. Cole, Alfred H. Chilton
  • Patent number: 7945414
    Abstract: A method for detecting abnormality in a fluid supply line is provided that uses a fluid control apparatus with a pressure sensor so that abnormality of malfunction and sheet leaks of a plurality of valves incorporated into the fluid supply line can be checked easily, promptly and accurately by operating the flow rate control apparatus possessing the pressure sensor. Specifically, using a fluid supply line provided with the flow rate control apparatus possessing the pressure sensor equipped with a flow rate setting mechanism, a flow rate/pressure display mechanism, and/or a flow rate self-diagnosis mechanism, abnormality of the control valves, installed with the flow rate control apparatus and on the upstream side and downstream side thereof, is detected by using the pressure value displayed and/or the value diagnosed with a self-diagnosis mechanism of the flow rate control apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Masaaki Nagase, Ryousuke Dohi, Nobukazu Ikeda, Kouji Nishino, Kaoru Hirata, Katsuyuki Sugita, Atsushi Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 7878051
    Abstract: A liquid measurement apparatus is configured to measure an amount of liquid flowing from a measured object. The apparatus includes a passage member having a measurement passage being connected to the measured object at one end. The measurement passage is filled with liquid. The apparatus further includes a closed vessel, which is connected to an other end of the measurement passage and filled with saturated vapor of the liquid. The apparatus further includes an analyzer. The liquid filled in the measurement passage contains a bubble, which is movable in accordance with change in amount of the liquid in the measurement passage. The analyzer is configured to calculate a travel distance of the bubble and configured to measure the amount of the liquid flowing from the measured object based on the calculated travel distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroki Tani, Makoto Yamaguchi, Shinichi Kaibuki, Tetsuji Kudoh
  • Patent number: 7856865
    Abstract: The invention comprises a method for controlling quality in a piping system, including a valve and a piping structure coupled to the valve. The method comprises the following: pressurize the piping structure with a gas at greater than sea-level pressure; seal the gas in the piping structure with the valve; determine whether the gas stays within the piping structure; determine that gas leaks from the piping structure; and identify the location of a leak from the piping structure. The invention further comprises a method for identifying a component. The method comprises the following: indicate identification information on a tag regarding the piping structure; and attach the tag to the piping structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventor: John Chris Karamanos
  • Patent number: 7845211
    Abstract: A pipe forming and testing apparatus includes a frame supporting a mandrel, the mandrel being adapted for positioning 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 pipe is formed from two or more pipe segments that are welded together. The apparatus includes at least one welding device for joining the pipe segments and preferably includes a rotating device for axially rotating the mandrel and pipe combination to facilitate the welding process. Once formed, the integrity of the pipe is tested by pressurizing the annular space and monitoring such pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: CAR-BER Investments Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn Carson
  • Patent number: 7827853
    Abstract: A weld testing assembly for testing the integrity of weld used to secure a nozzle to a vessel and the like comprises a pair of plates or discs positioned on either end of the nozzle and a generally coaxially extending annular body having a diameter smaller than the nozzle stem. The assembly creates a sealed area with a small volume whereby a weld test can be efficiently conducted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: CAR-BER Investments Inc.
    Inventors: Glenn Carson, James Hodgins
  • Patent number: 7814778
    Abstract: A faceplate connection assembly and method adapted to promote detection of a missing or defective seal element. The faceplate connection includes a surface member having a pair of opposing face elements. A seal seating depression adapted to accept a compressible seal element disposed at least partially across at least one face. A fluid transport channel of open groove construction is disposed in intersecting relation to the seal seating depression. The fluid transport channel is in fluid communication with a port at an exterior portion of the faceplate connection assembly. According to the method a tracer fluid is introduced at a predefined edge of the seal seating depression and migration of the tracer fluid across the seal seating depression is monitored. Detection of migration across the seal seating depression indicates a missing or defective seal element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc
    Inventors: Thomas G. McConnell, Robert E. Longmire
  • Patent number: 7779676
    Abstract: An apparatus for isolating and/or testing a section of a pipe includes a generally annular body having, on each end, a boss. A resilient member such as an O-ring is provided between the annular body and each boss. A series of electromagnets are provided for forcing or urging the bosses towards each other thereby resulting in deformation of the resilient members resulting in a seal being formed between the apparatus and the pipe. A method for isolating and/or testing a pipe segment is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: CAR-BER Investments Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn Carson
  • Patent number: 7780248
    Abstract: A double-glove system for use in a double-walled containment module is provided herein. More specifically, a double-glove system that includes an inner glove and an outer glove that are interconnected to respective glove rings for interconnection to an inner containment module and an outer containment module is provided. An annulus is provided between the gloves wherein purge gasses may flow therebetween. Further, a plurality of detection systems may be employed within containment volumes of the containment module to rapidly detect leaks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Merrick & Company
    Inventor: Francisco P. Granadino
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20100154715
    Abstract: The invention relates to a solution for cleaning a milking plant, which includes a milk line system (MLS), connectable to a collecting means, and is adapted to deliver milk that has been withdrawn from animals to a milk storage means (250). The milking plant also includes milk storage valve means (100; 235, 240), arranged between the milk line system (MLS) and the milk storage means (250). The valve means (240) are selectively adjustable to prevent fluid communication between the milk line system (MLS) and the milk storage means (250) during cleaning of the milk line system (MLS). Moreover, the valve means (100; 235, 240) are associated with a monitoring arrangement (275, EPS), which is adapted to determine an amount of leakage through the valve means (100; 235, 240) during the cleaning of the milk line system (MLS), and produce a valve health status signal (Sv) reflecting the amount of leakage. Hence, the functionality status of the valve means (100; 235, 240) may be qualitatively evaluated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: DeLaval Holding AB
    Inventors: Staffan Persson, Magnus Lidman
  • Patent number: 7716967
    Abstract: A leak detector sleeve allows performing leak detection at a flanged joint. The leak detector sleeve is made of elastomeric material that allows achieving a gas-tight seal when the leak detector sleeve encircles a flanged joint. The leak detector sleeve includes a hole that communicates with a gap in the flanged joint, thereby allowing the tip of a sniffer probe to be placed in or near the hole to detect whether the flanged joint is leaking. The leak detector sleeve is made of material that will withstand the operating temperature of the flanged joint without becoming hardened or brittle. A method for detecting a leak using the leak detector sleeve allows for efficiently and conveniently detecting leaks. In addition, the sleeve may be easily used and reused without the adverse effects or intensive manual labor required in the prior art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: WEW LLC
    Inventors: John Martin Woods, Robert Stephen Elbert, Daniel J. Wimer
  • Patent number: 7686761
    Abstract: A method detects proper connection of an endoscope to an endoscope processor by measuring pressure pulses applied to the connection point. The method can include measuring for the pressure pulses at a second connection point on the endoscope processor and measuring for a beat frequency produced variations in the frequency of pressure pulses input at each connection point. The method can also include looking for echoes of the pressure pulsations from physical structures within a lumen of the endoscope connected to the connection point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard A. Jackson, Robert C. Platt, Jr., Harold R. Williams
  • 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