Expansible Conduit Patents (Class 73/730)
  • Patent number: 11953388
    Abstract: Metallic tube structure comprises a first tubular portion and a sensor structure. A sensor of the sensor structure is configured to detect a physical parameter of the metallic tube structure. The sensor structure is formed as a stack of thin-film layers. The stack comprises at least a first electrically insulating thin-film layer and at least one electrically conducting thin-film layer. The first electrically insulating thin-film layer is in mechanically bonded to the outer surface of the first tubular portion and is arranged to electrically insulate the at least one electrically conducting thin-film layer from the first tubular portion. A portion of the sensor structure is covered by a protective member, the protective member being arranged in direct contact with the at least a portion of the sensor structure and at least a part of the first tubular portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: Alleima Tube AB
    Inventors: Gustaf Sjöblom, Anthony Ewert
  • Patent number: 11913850
    Abstract: A measuring system for a physical variable, the measuring system having a housing, a measuring tube having at least one tubular deformation body having a cross-section which is deformed at least partially and which is configured to expand elastically under pressure, two feed sections attached to end sections of the deformation body, two sealing sections for sealingly coupling the measuring system to a process, and two molded support sections to carry the housing. A measuring sensor system measures values of at least one of a stretching or a widening at at least two points on a section of the deformation body. An evaluation unit evaluates measured values of the stretching and widening and outputs them as a measurement signal. The housing at least partially surrounds and stabilizes the measuring tube on an outside and is provided with a vacuum and/or a negative pressure compared to the outside atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: WIKA Alexander Wiegand SE & Co. KG
    Inventors: Markus Diener, Lukas Spieler, Rolf Bloecher, Thomas Rothenbach
  • Patent number: 11892323
    Abstract: A universal fitting for in-line fluid measurement in a process application. The fitting includes an inlet and outlet port and also has a body with a fluid flow passage providing fluid communication between the ports. A sensor housing is provided that extends outwardly away from a wall of the body, wherein the housing is sized to receive a sensor assembly, which assembly measures at least one characteristic of the fluid. A base of each housing integrally formed with the wall and including a sensor seat for receiving a portion of the sensor assembly. A probe aperture receives a probe portion of the sensor assembly, each housing having the probe aperture disposed in the wall and extending from the fluid passage through its respective sensor seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: PendoTECH
    Inventors: James F. Furey, Dustin James Rekow
  • Patent number: 11860295
    Abstract: An enclosure for electronics comprises a shell. The shell defines an exterior of the enclosure and accommodated a main chamber inside the shell. The enclosure comprises a partition defining a relief chamber extending inwardly of the shell. The partition has a relief aperture communicating between the relief chamber and the main chamber. The partition has a gas-permeable barrier membrane arranged to cover the aperture. The shell has an opening communicating between the relief chamber and the exterior of the enclosure. The enclosure is suitable for vehicle-mounted radar sensor electronics. The enclosure may provide IP6K6K environmental sealing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: Aptiv Technologies Limited
    Inventors: Grzegorz Tkaczyk, Maciej Adamczyk
  • Patent number: 11529448
    Abstract: A pressure measurement pod for use in blood circuits includes a pressure sensing pod defining a chamber and having a rigid wall portion and an integral flexible wall portion forming a flexible, moveable, fluid-impermeable diaphragm with a first major side thereof facing an interior of the chamber and a second major side opposite the first major side. The second major side faces outwardly away from the chamber, and the pod has ports on sides of the chamber. The internal surfaces of the chamber and ports are shaped such that any contour following the internal surfaces to the outside of one of the ports traces only surfaces characterized by positive or neutral draft angles such that invasive mold portions may be withdrawn through the ports thereby permitting the pressure measurement pod to be molded in a single shot molding process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2022
    Assignee: NxStage Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Brugger, Dennis M. Treu, Jeffrey H. Burbank, Scott W. Newell, William J. Schnell, Kenneth E. Buckler
  • Patent number: 10300192
    Abstract: A device is described for supplying and metering a fluid for medical purposes, at least comprising one pump for pumping the fluid and at least one element through which the fluid is conveyed. At least one recess is provided in the at least one element, which is tightly covered by a sensor component composed of a pressure sensitive material, wherein a material of the at least one element is harder than that of the sensor component. The device also has a force sensor with which pressure-induced changes of the sensor component in a region of the at least one recess can be measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: B. BRAUN MELSUNGEN AG
    Inventor: Dietmar Eberhard
  • Patent number: 9778134
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for detecting leaks of liquids or gases caused by temperature variations, pressure variations, wear on the clamping and coupling devices, wear on sealing devices, by corrosive action, among others, in joints between pipes made by flanges (F) and together and basically comprises a strip (1) to be applied to the region of the “gap” (G) between flanges (F) with a pressure sensor (2) and protective caps (3) adapted to a screw head casing (PE) and nuts (P) employed for mounting between flanges (F).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Inventor: Guilherme Mendes Spitzman Jordan
  • Patent number: 9746391
    Abstract: A fluid monitoring assembly includes a segment of tubing having a wall defining a lumen through which the fluid passes and a sensor at least partially embedded within a wall of the tubing. The assembly includes a housing having first and second portions connected to one another at a hinge, the housing defining an interior portion configured to hold the segment of tubing and the sensor. The housing may be opened and closed as needed using a fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: ALPHINITY, LLC
    Inventors: Michael C. Gagne, Steven V. Cates, Dean C. Richards
  • Patent number: 9689756
    Abstract: A tool for use in locating a pressure measurement device between a surface and a biasing member is provided. The tool includes a first indexing member configured to couple to a first side of the pressure measurement device, and a second indexing member configured to couple to a second opposing side of the pressure measurement device. The second indexing member includes an outer surface including a recess sized to receive at least a portion of the biasing member. The first and second indexing members are configured to be pressed between the biasing member and the surface such that the first and second indexing members compress against the pressure measurement device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Ryan F. Drake, Steven P. Kury, James P. Conners
  • Patent number: 9677960
    Abstract: A pressure sensing assembly (1), comprising: an elongate, axially extending tube (100), having a flexible tube wall (102) that encloses an inner pressure chamber (106); and at least one sensor unit (200), including: two tube wall fixation devices (210), connected to the tube wall (102) at respective axially spaced apart positions, and configured to fix respective diameters (D, d) of the tube wall at said positions; and a first strain sensing element (220), connected to the tube wall (102) at a first position axially in between said two tube wall devices (210), and configured to provide a first signal indicative of an axial elongation of the tube wall resulting from a change in axial curvature of the tube wall when a pressure differential between the inner pressure chamber (106) and an outside environment (108) of the tube is applied across the tube wall at said first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: Nederlandse Organisatie voor toegepast-natuurwetenschappelijk onderzoek TNO
    Inventors: Lun Kai Cheng, Peter Martijn Toet, Rik Jansen
  • Patent number: 9557204
    Abstract: A metering apparatus for determining a characteristic of a fluid, such as the volumetric flow rate, flowing through a non-linear section of a pipe is disclosed having a first strain gauge mountable to the non-linear section of the pipe offset from the bending neutral axis of the non-linear section of the pipe, to detect a bending force on the non-linear section of the pipe induced by the inertia of the fluid flowing through the pipe. A second strain gauge is mountable to the pipe disposed on the bending neutral axis of the non-linear section of the pipe, to detect at least one of the hoop strains, longitudinal strains and radial strains imparted on the pipe by the pressure of the fluid flowing through the pipe. A controller is configured to determine the mass flow rate of fluid flowing through the pipe based on the bending force determined by the first strain gauge and the at least one of the hoop strains, longitudinal strains and radial strains determined by the second strain gauge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS LIMITED
    Inventors: George Edmond, Rhona Whitlock, Robert Case
  • Patent number: 9551625
    Abstract: A pressure measurement system for use in blood circuits comprised of a pressure sensing pod and a force measurement device. The pressure sensing pod can include a flexible, moveable, fluid-impermeable diaphragm and can be formed via either a one-shot or a two-shot molding process. A mechanical engagement member of the force measurement device engages with a mechanical engagement feature of the diaphragm, and the engagement member is operative to move in concert with movement of the engagement feature of the diaphragm based on pressure variations with the pressure sensing pod. The force measurement device generates and outputs to a processor a signal based on detected force associated with movement of the engagement member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: NXSTAGE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: James M. Brugger, Dennis M. Treu, Jeffrey H. Burbank, Scott W. Newell, William J. Schnell, Kenneth E. Buckler
  • Patent number: 9404609
    Abstract: A terminal end-attachment device (10) for a flexible pipe (12) comprising an attachment body (14) adapted to receive a terminal end of a flexible pipe (12) and to couple the said flexible pipe to a hydrocarbon production installation structure. The device (10) further comprising a strain sensor (16) coupled to a sensor carrier (18), at least part of the sensor carrier (18) and the strain sensor (16) being at least partially incorporated within the attachment body (14). A method of manufacturing a terminal end-attachment device (10) for a flexible pipe (12) is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: OneSubsea IP UK Limited
    Inventors: Damon Richard Roberts, Rogerio Tadeu Ramos, Stephane Vannuffelen
  • Patent number: 9393397
    Abstract: A tubular medical fluid flow set comprises a pressure sensing chamber connected in flow-through relation to fluid flow tubing of the set. The pressure sensing chamber defines a movable, flexible, impermeable diaphragm dividing the chamber into two separate compartments. The fluid flow tubing communicates with one of the compartments and is isolated from the other of the compartments. A port is carried on the chamber, the port having a seal therein, and communicating with the other of the compartments. Thus, the other of the compartments is hermetically sealed until the port is opened for connection with a pressure measuring device, to keep the flexible diaphragm in a desired, initial position prior to opening of the seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: NXSTAGE MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: William J. Schnell, David Bell, Karen Wilson, David S. Utterberg
  • Publication number: 20150068523
    Abstract: A pressure sensitive device includes a ring having a central axis, first side and second side. The ring includes a dielectric portion parallel to the central axis and between the first and second sides. A flexible membrane is connected to a periphery of the ring on the first side, the flexible membrane including a conductive portion. A perforated membrane is connected to a periphery of the ring on the second side. The perforated membrane is spaced apart and electrically isolated from the flexible membrane by the ring below a threshold pressure differential across the pressure sensitive device. The perforated membrane includes an opening therethrough and a conductive portion facing and corresponding to the conductive portion of the flexible membrane such that a threshold pressure differential across the pressure sensitive device causes deflection between the conductive portions of the flexible membrane and the perforated membrane to change an electrical property.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Applicant: ARROW ELECTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: NICHOLAS POWERS, Christian Curtis
  • Patent number: 8844373
    Abstract: An exterior pressure detection device for detecting fluid pressure in pipes includes a body in which a circuit board and a pressure detection unit are received. The pressure detection unit includes a board and a pressure detecting chip which is electrically connected to the circuit board. An L-shaped clamping bar has a connection section and a clamping section which is parallel to the board. A pipe is clamped between the board and the clamping section. When the volume of the fluid passing through the pipe and changes the diameter of the pipe, the board is moved to activate the pressure detecting chip which transfer the change of the diameter of the pipe into a signal which is sent to the exterior main controlling device via the signal output device of the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventor: Chung-Yi Huang
  • Publication number: 20140230824
    Abstract: Pressure indicator comprising a base, a deformable membrane fixed to the base in a fluid-tight manner according to a closed contour, and a body fixed to the base, delimiting a hollow volume covering the deformable membrane on the side opposite the base, while encompassing at least the closed contour, at least one inlet for a fluid the pressure of which is to be measured in a pressure range, wherein the deformable membrane is such that the expansion thereof for said pressure range is sufficient to be visible to the naked eye and to allow a direct display indicative of the pressure, in that the base is drilled with at least one first hole a first end of which emerges between the deformable membrane and the base in the closed contour, in that the body is drilled with at least one second hole a first end of which emerges into said hollow volume, in that the other end of the first hole is linked to the inlet respectively to the open air, in that the other end of the second hole is linked to the open air, respectiv
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Inventors: Pascal Lucchina, Stéphane Checcaroni, Gilles Dhonneur
  • Publication number: 20130247675
    Abstract: A pressure sensor includes a housing that includes an interior surface and an axially symmetric liner disposed along the interior surface of the housing, where the liner includes an interior surface and an exterior surface. The pressure sensor further includes a sensing member that includes an interior surface and an exterior surface, where the interior surface of the sensing member is adjacent to the exterior surface of the liner, and the sensing member is configured to expand with the liner. The pressure sensor further includes a strain gauge affixed to the exterior surface of the sensing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventor: Stephane Poissy
  • Publication number: 20130205909
    Abstract: An exterior pressure detection device for detecting fluid pressure in pipes includes a body in which a circuit board and a pressure detection unit are received. The pressure detection unit includes a board and a pressure detecting chip which is electrically connected to the circuit board. An L-shaped clamping bar has a connection section and a clamping section which is parallel to the board. A pipe is clamped between the board and the clamping section. When the volume of the fluid passing through the pipe and changes the diameter of the pipe, the board is moved to activate the pressure detecting chip which transfer the change of the diameter of the pipe into a signal which is sent to the exterior main controlling device via the signal output device of the circuit board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: AUTOLAND SCIENTECH CO., LTD.
    Inventor: CHUNG-YI HUANG
  • Publication number: 20130019689
    Abstract: A pressure measuring device includes a resilient expandable pressure sensor element having an open end and an opposite closed end. The pressure sensor element includes spiral flutes extending between the open and closed ends defining spiral bellows. The pressure sensor element is tapered over at least a portion of its length from the open end to the closed end. The pressure measuring device also includes a supporting structure having a pressure indicating scale. The supporting structure holds the pressure sensor element such that the open end of the pressure sensor element is in communication with a fluid whose pressure is to be measured and pressure applied by the fluid causes the pressure sensor element to expand axially and be visibly displaced relative to the pressure indicating scale by a distance related to the pressure applied by the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventors: Alexander Henry Slocum, Alexander H. Slocum, JR.
  • Patent number: 7678065
    Abstract: The invention discloses a trabecular stent and methods for treating glaucoma. The stent may incorporate an intraocular pressure sensor comprising a compressible element that is implanted inside an anterior chamber of an eye, wherein at least one external dimension of the element correlates with intraocular pressure. In some embodiments, the sensor may be coupled to the stent. Also disclosed are methods of delivery of the stent and the sensor to the eye.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Glaukos Corporation
    Inventors: David S. Haffner, Hosheng Tu, Morteza Gharib
  • Patent number: 7568393
    Abstract: An air-pressure sensor for side-impact sensing, and a pressure-entry channel, which conveys the air pressure to a pressure-sensor element. The pressure-entry channel has multiple angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Boris Adam, Stephan Henzler, Martin Schuerer, Tobby Brandt
  • Publication number: 20090012464
    Abstract: This invention pertains to a hose system for an injector for injecting contrast agents and saline solution into the human body. The hose system comprises a contrast agent conduit (106, 126; 206, 226; 306, 326; 401, 402,403, 404, 405, 421, 422, 423, 424, 425; 501, 502, 503, 504, 521, 522, 523, 524), a saline solution conduit (116, 216, 316, 411, 412, 413, 414, 415; 511, 512, 513, 515) a pump hose (132; 232; 332; 432; 532) and a frame (135; 235; 335; 435, 436; 535, 536, 537). The contrast agent and saline solution conduits are mechanically fixed at a least one position to the frame. The pump hose is fixed to the frame at least two positions. The invention further pertains to a squeeze valve and a pressure measuring interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventors: Baecke Martin, Heide Walther, Uwe Schwerdtfeger
  • Patent number: 7454976
    Abstract: A pressure sensor includes a case with an air passageway having a first opening leading to an inside of the case and a second opening leading to an outside of the case, pressure sensing means that is placed inside the case and includes a pressure sensing surface for detecting pressure, and a breathable filter that is provided with the air passageway to cover at least one of the first and second openings. The pressure sensing means is fixed to the case through mounting means that allows the pressure sensing means to be spaced from the case to prevent stress that is applied to the pressure sensing means by the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Shingo Wanami, Toshihito Nonaka, Satoru Takehara
  • Patent number: 7412893
    Abstract: A redundant pressure transmitter for redundantly measuring pressure of a process fluid comprises a transmitter housing, transmitter circuitry, a remote seal assembly including a first pressure sensor, and a second pressure sensor positioned in the transmitter housing. The remote seal assembly also comprises a remote seal flange, a communication system and a capillary tube. The remote seal flange communicates with the process fluid and the first pressure sensor senses the process fluid pressure at the remote seal flange. The communication system relays output of the first pressure sensor to the transmitter circuitry, and the capillary tube communicates the process fluid pressure to the transmitter housing via a fill fluid, where the second pressure sensor senses the pressure of the process fluid through the fill fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Rosemount Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Hedtke
  • Publication number: 20080083284
    Abstract: The invention relates to a piezoelectric sensor device, especially for use with a microbalance, with a sensor housing and a holder for holding a piezoelectric sensor element. In order to permit quick exchange of crystals and to minimize the size of the assembly the holder is configured as a clamping element, which has at least one elastic first arm for clamped holding of the contact region of said essentially strip-shaped piezoelectric resonator element, whose measuring region is subjected to a fluid stream to be measured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventors: Richard Schauperl, Peter Prenninger, Johannes Macher
  • Patent number: 7340959
    Abstract: A pressure sensor includes a casing formed with a first case and a second case that has a pressure introduction hole for introducing a measurement object, a pressure sensing portion in the casing and a metal diaphragm disposed between an end face of the first case and a reception face of the second case. The measurement object is introduced into a subspace that is formed as an expanded end of the pressure introduction hole in the second case for measurement of pressure by transmitting the pressure through the diaphragm to the pressure sensing portion, and the pressure sensing hole has an orifice that reduces a cross-sectional area of the pressure sensing hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Junichi Sato
  • Patent number: 7325458
    Abstract: A peak contact pressure sensor system comprising: at least one channel comprising a wall, wherein the wall is configured to deform upon engagement with a force or pressure which exceeds a threshold level, and further wherein the channel is filled with a fluid or gas; and a monitor for monitoring changes in the state of the fluid or gas within the at least one channel. A smart tissue retractor system comprising: a retractor; at least one channel carried by the retractor and comprising a wall, wherein the wall is configured to deform upon engagement with a force which exceeds a threshold level, and further wherein the channel is filled with a fluid or gas; and a monitor for monitoring changes in the state of the fluid or gas within the at least one channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventor: Alfred Perlin
  • Patent number: 7281430
    Abstract: An inflatable air cell pressure transducer. The air cell has a concavity formed therein. The concavity has two edges, wherein increased pressure within the air cell causes contraction of the concavity moving the two edges closer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Dielectrics Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Pekar, Adam S. Epstein, Scott R. Cadwallader
  • Patent number: 7207225
    Abstract: A piping and pressure-measuring apparatus includes a pipe defining a first chamber, a second chamber and a third chamber between the first and second chambers. A first connector includes a section put in the first chamber and an opposite section for connection with a pump. A check valve is installed in the first connector. A second connector includes a first element put in the second chamber and a second element connected with the first element for connection with an inflatable object. A pressure gauge is connected with the third chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Louis Chuang
  • Patent number: 7074191
    Abstract: A method for the non-intrusive measurement of blood pressure in a circuit of a dialysis machine, using a device provided with a sleeve forming a portion of the blood circuit and having at least one part which moves according to the pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the sleeve, and with an emitter and a receiver of electromagnetic waves. The method comprising the emission of a beam of electromagnetic waves and the receiving of a beam of electromagnetic waves reflected from the moving part, in order to measure the displacement of the moving part in such a way as to establish a relationship between the position of the moving part and the pressure of the blood circulating in the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Gambro Lundia AB
    Inventors: Antonio Bosetto, Annalisa Delnevo
  • Patent number: 7021150
    Abstract: The invention concerns a hydraulic expansion process for tubes. With this process it is possible to increase the number of hydraulic tube expansions that can be implemented using an expansion device. The hydraulic expansion process in accordance with the invention is highly optimized with regard to control times, pressures and flows. In this process, pressure is produced in the pressure medium with hydraulic oil via a medium separator and a pressure intensifier. In addition, the invention specifies a device for implementing the expansion process and a process for determining the maximum number of hydraulic tube expansions that can be performed with a probe. Finally, the maximum number of expansions is determined taking into account the deformations of the expanded tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Balcke-Durr GmbH
    Inventor: Miroslav Podhorsky
  • Patent number: 6962084
    Abstract: A diaphragm cover apparatus and method for a sensor are disclosed. A sensor cover is located proximate to a base. A dimple can be located centrally within the cover, wherein the dimple comprises a component that is separate from the sensor cover and diaphragm. The dimple contacts a sense element of the sensor. Additionally, a foil can be adapted for use in blocking air permeation through the sensor diaphragm, when the sensor experiences pressure. An over mold diaphragm is generally located as part of the sensor cover. The dimple itself comprises a highly polished surface to reduce stress concentrators from contacting the sense element. The dimple can be formed from materials such as stainless steel, ceramic and the like to optimize the performance of the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Gall
  • Patent number: 6935183
    Abstract: A portable apparatus for measuring the internal pressure of a vacuum panel is described, includes a measuring head having an cavity wherein a sensor of movement is arranged; the device, supported on a portion of the envelope of the panel, detects the movement of a part of the portion of the envelope facing the cavity, following the evacuation of the space formed by said cavity and the part of envelope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: SAES Getters S.p.A.
    Inventors: Bruno Ferrario, Pierattilio Di Gregorio, Robert Giannantonio, Raffaele Pozzi, Gianluca Galliani
  • Patent number: 6931933
    Abstract: A pressure sensing unit has a pressure responsive member, a pressure sensor, and a hydraulic connector hydraulically connecting the pressure responsive member with the pressure sensor to produce an indication of sensed pressure. The hydraulic connector includes a tubular member and a longitudinal insert in the tubular member with hydraulic fluid in the tubular member between the insert and the member. The tubular member, the insert and the hydraulic fluid and the dimensions of the tubular member and the insert are such that the hydraulic fluid transmitted to the pressure sensor is substantially independent of temperature changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventor: James Brian Wilson
  • Patent number: 6880404
    Abstract: The aim of the invention in particular is to reduce the risk of haemolysis in extracorporeal blood circulation. To this end, a system element for releasably sealingly connecting a transducer to a fluid system comprises a measuring chamber (7) which can be connected to the fluid system in such a way as to allow throughflow. Said measuring chamber (7) is formed in a housing (10). Part of the wall of the measuring chamber (7) is formed by a membrane (11) which is considerably more flexible than the rest of the wall (15) of said measuring chamber (7). The membrane (11) has a peripheral built-up section (20) which is located on the side of the membrane (11) that faces towards the measuring chamber (7). Said built-up section (20) engages in a channel (19) which is formed in the housing (10) and which extends around the measuring chamber (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: MHM Harzbecher Medizintechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Andreas Überreiter
  • Patent number: 6857318
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the non-invasive measurement of the internal pressure of elastic vessels, according to which a restoring force is detected on the outer surface of the vessel and the internal pressure is determined from the measured force and the relaxation curve of the vessel. The aim of the invention is to be able to measure internal pressure in a simply yet highly accurate manner. To this end the relaxation curve is determined repeatedly after the start of the measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Gerhard Silber, Michael Stanull, Matthias Wackenreuther, Eva-Maria Schuttler, Jochen Lohberg
  • Patent number: 6857319
    Abstract: A method for testing hydrostatic pressure of an inflator housing constituting an outer shell container for various inflators, which can evaluate a hydrostatic pressure conveniently is provided. The method comprises the steps of injecting water from a small hole provided in the inflator housing until the pressure inside the inflator housing reaches a predetermined pressure of an evaluation standard, keeping the inflator housing sealed tightly, or comprises the step of increasing the pressure inside the inflator housing to the predetermined pressure while injecting water in the inflator housing, draining the injected water, and drying the interior of the inflator housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Masayuki Nakayasu, Nobuyuki Katsuda
  • Publication number: 20040255685
    Abstract: An inflatable air cell pressure transducer. The air cell has a concavity formed therein. The concavity has two edges, wherein increased pressure within the air cell causes contraction of the concavity moving the two edges closer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventors: Robert W. Pekar, Adam S. Epstein, Scott R. Cadwallader
  • Patent number: 6820491
    Abstract: A pressure differential measuring tool which includes a wafer container having a pressure difference meter provided in fluid communication therewith. In use, the wafer container is placed in the indexer of the process tool, which is operated according to normal operational parameters. The pressure difference meter measures the difference in pressure between the air in the indexer, which equalizes with pressure in the wafer container, and the ambient or atmospheric air surrounding the chamber, which equalizes with the pressure of the air in the process chamber. The air pressure in the indexer can then be adjusted to a value higher than the ambient or atmospheric air pressure to prevent influx of air and particles from the process chamber into the indexer and wafer container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jain-Fa Lin, Shih-Chang Shih
  • Patent number: 6813955
    Abstract: There is provided a tensioning device that includes an inflatable pressure vessel, a bellows arrangement, and a valve. The pressure vessel has two superimposed major wall components fabricated from sheet metal and further has an aperture which passes through the two superimposed major wall components. The aperture has an axial direction. The bellows arrangement is connected to and located between the two superimposed major wall components at and around the aperture. The valve is for filling the pressure vessel with liquid under pressure to cause the pressure vessel to be inflated in the axial direction of the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Inventors: John Paul McKelvey, David Charles Tyrer
  • Publication number: 20040118212
    Abstract: A system for sensing respiratory pressure includes a portable pressure transducer configured to be carried by or proximate to a respiratory conduit, such as a breathing circuit or a nasal canula. The portable pressure transducer may removably couple with a pneumotach, in the form of an airway adapter, disposed along the respiratory conduit. The pneumotach may include two pressure ports positioned at opposite sides of an obstruction, which partially blocks flow through a primary conduit of the pneumotach. Corresponding sample conduits of the portable pressure transducer removably couple with the pressure ports. The pressure ports may have sealing elements which are configured to seal against piercing members of the sample conduits upon introduction of the piercing members therethrough. Upon removal of the piercing members, the sealing elements substantially reseal. Methods for using the system are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: Respironics, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph A. Orr, Scott A. Kofoed, Kevin Durst
  • Patent number: 6718828
    Abstract: Described is a sensing device, which is suspended in a filling material, particularly a liquid, by means of a cable 30. The cable 30 consists of a cable jacket of insulating material, a shielding jacket 32 of metal mesh beneath the cable jacket 31, and the electrical conductors connected to the sensor proper 11. In accordance with the invention, the shielding jacket 32 also serves to relieve pull. To this end, the end 33 that projects into the sensor housing 10 is exposed, i.e., is free of the insulating jacket material, and has a solid mechanical connection to the adapting piece 21 of a cable seat 20 inserted into the housing 10, and the connection is electrically conductive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Vega Grieshaber KG
    Inventors: Thomas Kopp, Hermann Dieterle, Ewald Bohler
  • Patent number: 6691580
    Abstract: A testing fixture assembly induces a compound bend deflection in a test panel upon relative movement of opposing pressure applying parts. A panel holder has restraint members for receiving the edges of a test panel and a measuring device has an element for measuring the compound deflection induced in the panel. A liquid filled bladder formed of a pair of opposed pliant membranes is partitioned by a non-pliant plate and a bladder frame structure sandwiches the perimeter edge portions of the plate and membranes in tightly clamped relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Gougeon Brothers
    Inventor: William D. Bertelsen
  • Patent number: 6675657
    Abstract: A self-dampening vessel is disclosed for use with any fluid system. The vessel receives a fluid and encounters pressure pulsations, flow distribution problems, noises and/or vibrations from changes in the fluid pressure. To combat these undesired effects without the use of a separate damper, the vessel comprises a tubular member having opposing sides and opposing ends. The sides of the tubular member may vary in shape, but the sides are typically connected by rounded ends. When subjected to pressure changes, the tubular member adapts and expands or retracts from a neutral position. Furthermore, the ends of the tubular member may include an opening with an endcap attached to cover the opening. The endcap includes a port for mating the vessel to a fluid source. Alternative, the ends may be sealed and an outer surface of the tubular member may include the port integrally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventors: Nicholas O. KalTsounis, Mathew Darrah, Michael O'Rourke, Mary Cortese
  • Patent number: 6663352
    Abstract: A method and system for dynamically determining a vapor pressure of a fluid passing through a pumping system by diverting a portion of the fluid from the pumping system into a chamber, isolating the diverted fluid from the pumping system, evacuating the chamber and measuring the vapor pressure of the isolated fluid. In another aspect of the invention, a temperature compensation device is included in the chamber to alter the chamber fluid temperature to insure that the chamber fluid temperature is substantially the same as the fluid in the pumping system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene P. Sabini, Oakley Henyan
  • Publication number: 20030217602
    Abstract: The pressure sensor comprises two supporting bodies (10,11) with plane supporting surfaces (12,13) between which a hose (14) is flattened. For measuring the internal pressure of the hose (14), a web (17) displaceable in a gap (16) is arranged at a supporting body (10), said web pressing against the plane surface of the flattened hose (14) and being supported on a force sensor (19). Thus, the deformation forces generated upon compressing the hose are eliminated for the measurement of pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Applicant: B. Braun Melsungen AG
    Inventor: Juergen Steger
  • Patent number: 6637272
    Abstract: A direct passage manometer includes a body into which at least two rectilinear channels open into a recessed curved surface at a central portion thereof. A diaphragm seals the curved surface at the center of the body and is fixed in place by a load cell. The load cell has a movement amplifying device and indicator mounted thereon. The movement amplifying device rests on the diaphragm, connects to the indicator and is fixed in place by the load cell. The opening holes of the two channels are elliptical in profile and machined so as to avoid any retention zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Bourdon S.A.
    Inventor: Paul-Edouard Bariere
  • Publication number: 20030177838
    Abstract: Described is a sensing device, which is suspended in a filling material, particularly a liquid, by means of a cable 30. The cable 30 consists of a cable jacket of insulating material, a shielding jacket 32 of metal mesh beneath the cable jacket 31, and the electrical conductors connected to the sensor proper 11. In accordance with the invention, the shielding jacket 32 also serves to relieve pull. To this end, the end 33 that projects into the sensor housing 10 is exposed, i.e., is free of the insulating jacket material, and has a solid mechanical connection to the adapting piece 21 of a cable seat 20 inserted into the housing 10, and said connection is electrically conductive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas Kopp, Hermann Dieterle, Ewald Bohler
  • Patent number: 6622565
    Abstract: The invention provides a simple, non-invasive means for measuring pressure of fluid in fluid-containing, resilient tubing by measuring the force to mechanically compress the tubing to a predetermined distance. In the apparatus of the invention, first and second opposed members are moved together to a predetermined distance to compress the fluid-containing, resilient tubing therebetween. Measuring means connected to at least one of the members is used to measure the force exerted by the fluid-containing, resilient tubing against the members when the members are at the predetermined distance from one another, wherein the measuring means has been pre-calibrated at the predetermined distance, to correspond to fluid pressure within the fluid-containing, resilient tubing. An important application of the invention is the provision of a convenient, non-intrusive, low-cost device for field measurement of pressure in drip irrigation systems, without installing special fittings or puncturing the tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventors: Dennis C. Kincaid, Thomas J. Trout