Moisture Content Or Absorption Characteristic Of Material Patents (Class 73/73)
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Patent number: 8164044Abstract: A connector apparatus for use with combined electrical and fiber optic cables in wet or undersea conditions. The connector apparatus includes an outer threaded male connector portion connected to a first cable and a compatible female connector portion having a rotating internally threaded collar for engaging the outer male connector portion. The female connector portion includes conductor pins and a fiber-optic terminal pin and a fiber optic sensor ring.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2009Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Inventor: Guy E. Mossman
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Publication number: 20120073360Abstract: A method for providing superadsorption of polar organic compounds using a material system comprising the steps of enhancing adsorption by means of using high surface area and mass transfer rates and decreased reactivity at surface sites attractive to the polar compounds and employing consequence management by maintaining a high rate of adsorptivity combined with high fidelity and accuracy of the material system.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2011Publication date: March 29, 2012Applicant: BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc.Inventors: Deborah E. Hunka, Christopher L. Rector, Michael J. Bowers II
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Publication number: 20120060593Abstract: A predetermined test sample is used to test a measuring instrument (10) for gravimetric moisture determination. The measuring instrument has a test chamber (30), a weighing device (40) for determining the mass of a sample contained in a sample holder (60) in a measuring position in the test chamber, and at least one means for heating (31) the sample on the sample holder. The test sample is placed on the sample holder and its initial mass is determined. The test chamber is heated, using a predefined temperature profile. After heating, the subsequent mass of the test sample is determined, using the weighing device. By comparing this subsequent mass to a reference mass for the test sample, a signal corresponding to the result of the comparison is generated and transmitted.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2011Publication date: March 15, 2012Applicant: METTLER-TOLEDO AGInventors: Markus Steinrisser, Helen Vogt, Claas Boerger, Dominik Gössi
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Patent number: 8127761Abstract: A device for detecting the relative humidity in a respiratory circuit is provided which includes a housing closed towards the outside by a transparent element, and towards the inside by a membrane permeable to the humidified gas passing through the equipment to which the device is applied and wherein the housing includes a humidity indicator element.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2008Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Covidien AGInventors: Camillo Belluzzi, Sarah Gallini, Massimiliano Solci
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Publication number: 20120054061Abstract: A process and system for growing produce decouples farming from the unpredictability of the external environment by moving the farm into a highly-controlled enclosed environment in which all variables are optimized to grow produce of exceptional quality in a consistent, predictable manner, while minimizing or eliminating deleterious environmental impacts. A filtered, positive-pressure environment greatly reduces particulate contamination and pest infiltration from the outside. Seedlings are planted in containers of an organic soil mix engineered to deliver optimal amounts of water, nutrients, fiber and organic matter. The containers advance along a production line, in the process being given controlled exposure to light of predetermined intensity and wavelength, optimized to produce a desired growth pattern. Water is given at regular intervals in amounts calculated to produce optimal growth without waste.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventors: Philip E. FOK, Ken Stutzman
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Publication number: 20120051391Abstract: A method for analyzing moisture content in an analyzer. In one embodiment a sample is introduced into an analyzer and an initial weight is obtained. The sample is then fortified where it is allowed to pick-up moisture. The temperature of the analyzer is increased and an initial fortified point is obtained wherein the sample has returned to its initial weight. Thereafter the analyzer obtains the final moisture content of the sample at a test finish time. In one embodiment satellite analyzers are biased against a standard analyzer so that more uniform results are obtained.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2010Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: FRITO-LAY NORTH AMERICA, INC.Inventors: Wilfred M. BOURG, JR., Scott FAGAN
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Patent number: 8109133Abstract: The invention concerns a method and a device for measuring the ability of a material to absorb a liquid, whereby a liquid is brought into contact with a surface of a test specimen (P) of the material, and wherein the amount of liquid that has been absorbed in the test specimen is calculated. A certain amount of liquid is supplied to a liquid chamber unit, which on one side is limited by said surface, such that an amount of liquid which is absorbed by the test specimen leaves the liquid chamber unit and a representation comprising an indication of the reduction of the amount of liquid in the liquid chamber unit is produced.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2007Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Fibro System ABInventors: Bernt Bostrom, Ulf Backlund
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Patent number: 8111076Abstract: This invention is concerned with a method for measuring the canopy rehydration pulse during the period of water application. During the rehydration process water leaks from the trunk xylem tubes into the sapwood extraxyllary region. A water content sensor in this region monitors the magnitude and timing of this leakage water thereby giving a measure of the magnitude and timing of the upward flow of water. The rehydration pulse is quantified by a sequence of measurements of sapwood water content: an initial measurement of water content just prior to water application, then measurement of water content during water application. The difference between the values obtained in the two measurements yields a measure of the leakage water in the extraxyllary region and, in turn, the magnitude and timing of the rehydration pulse. Determination of the onset and termination of the rehydration pulse is used to optimize the duration of water application.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2010Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Inventor: William G. Gensler
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Patent number: 8104498Abstract: Moisture sensor devices and methods are disclosed herein. One embodiment includes an integrated moisture sensor and controller to be placed in soil comprising a controller circuit for controlling a switch; a sensor circuit comprising a probe and adapted to provide the controller circuit a signal corresponding to a moisture level of the soil. The controller and sensor circuits integrated into a single device positioned within the soil; the switch coupled to the controller circuit and to be coupled to a control line of an irrigation controller at an electrical position between the controller and a valve, the control line to carry a power signal from the controller to the valve; the switch to interrupt irrigation in response to a signal from the controller circuit; the controller circuit is adapted to determine an amount of time for which irrigation is interrupted.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2010Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Rain Bird CorporationInventors: Daniel D. Dresselhaus, Kevin G. O'Brien
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Patent number: 8104190Abstract: A moisture metering calibration method and system for, e.g., determining the moisture lumber within a lumber drying kiln is disclosed. Calibration of moisture indicative electrical signals obtained from, e.g., moisture sensing capacitive plates spaced apart within a stack of drying lumber is performed, wherein long lengths (e.g., up to 1000 linear feet or more) of coaxial cable can be used for transmitting the signals, and effectively removing signal anomalies induced in such cabling so that accurate lumber moisture measurements result. Such extended cable lengths provides flexibility with respect to placement of electronic moisture metering equipment. This flexibility allows such equipment to be placed in an environmentally-controlled enclosure, rather than on the weather exposed exterior of a kiln whose lumber is being monitored.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2010Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Signature Control Systems, Inc.Inventor: Richard Magill
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Patent number: 8104993Abstract: A wireless sensor probe for use in environmental monitoring and control includes a separable probe body and sensor mast. The probe body includes a void configured to house the sensor mast including one or more sensor devices for sensing a soil property surrounding the probe body when the probe body is inserted partially into the ground. The probe body includes a probe top part for encapsulating the probe body and the sensor mast. The sensor mast is inserted into the probe body to form the sensor probe. In another embodiment, a wireless sensor probe includes a housing containing one or more sensor devices. The probe further includes a collar situated near a top portion of the housing being used to anchor the housing to the top of the ground and a gasket formed on the outside perimeter of the housing for securing the housing in the ground.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2009Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Digital Sun, Inc.Inventors: Dale K. Hitt, Kurtis G. Heaton
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Publication number: 20120011922Abstract: A sampler improves sampling and moisture measurements by reducing the introduction of fines, providing a more representative grain sample, and improving the ability to make consistent moisture measurements. The sampler has a body positioned to receive grain from a grain flow path. A primary auger positioned within the body has a shaft and a fin configured to lift and propel a portion of the grain up to and through a sampling opening. A sensor assembly operatively connected to the body and in communication with the sampling opening is configured to receive the portion of grain indicate the moisture content of the portion of grain.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2011Publication date: January 19, 2012Applicant: THE GSI GROUP, LLCInventor: Neil Bowsher
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Patent number: 8091409Abstract: A storm water run-off percolation rate test system includes a turbid water generator having a silt or sediment source providing silt into a mixing tank. A pipeline carries turbid water from the mixing tank to a test pit or test site. A flow meter measures the amount of turbid water moved into the test pit. Detectors detect a water level in the test pit. A controller automatically controls the turbid water generator and flow of turbid water into the test pit, and records data on the amount of turbid water provided into the test pit over time, to determine a percolation rate. In a method for determining a percolation rate, turbid water is created and used in the percolation rate testing, to more accurately simulate run-off.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2009Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Inventor: Ryan Watt
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Publication number: 20120000276Abstract: The present invention relates to a dryer (1) comprising a drum (2) which is rotated around its own horizontal axis, a bulkhead (3) which has an opening (4) that enables the laundry to be loaded into the drum (2) and to be unloaded therefrom, a fixing surface (6) which is fixed to the bulkhead (3) and which has at least two apertures (9), and at least two electrodes (5) which are disposed into the apertures (9) and which provide dryness sensing to be performed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2009Publication date: January 5, 2012Inventors: Levent Cinar, Arif Ozarslan
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Patent number: 8082791Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for determining the softness of a hygienic paper or textile with at least one ply, wherein an element (106) is arranged relative to a positionally fixed sample (P), with at least one ply, of the hygienic paper or textile such that it can move and is designed such that it can be adjusted with respect to the sample (P) with a penetration force (F) acting on the sample (P) being specified, wherein in the region of the oscillations being produced between sample (P) and the element (106), an oscillation sensor (116) is arranged which registers the noises produced during the relative movement of the element (106) acting on the sample (P).Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2007Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Inventor: Giselher Gruener
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Patent number: 8056401Abstract: In-line systems for and methods of measuring the moisture content of ceramic material within an extrusion system used to form ceramic articles are disclosed. One method includes arranging, relative to the extrusion system, at least one radio-frequency (RF) sensor system having an RF antenna, and generating through the RF antenna an RF field that resides substantially entirely within the ceramic material. The method also includes, in response to the RF field interacting with the ceramic material, generating in the RF sensor system a signal representative of a raw moisture-content measurement of the ceramic material. The method also includes generating calibration data by performing RF moisture-content measurements on samples of the ceramic material having different known moisture contents, and establishing a calibrated moisture-content measurement using the raw moisture-content signal and the calibration data. Both contact and non-contact systems and measurement methods are described.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2009Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: Corning IncorporatedInventors: David Dasher, Robert John Locker, James Monroe Marlowe
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Patent number: 8051871Abstract: A tensiometer for use in determining matric potential of a soil comprising: a water inlet; a hydraulic coupler comprising a porous material for providing hydraulic coupling between water that enters the inlet and the soil; and a septum that seals water that enters the inlet against ingress of air via the porous material.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2008Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignees: Netafim Ltd., Yissum Research Development Company of the Hebrew University of JerusalemInventors: Uri Shani, Abraham Schweitzer
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Patent number: 8051714Abstract: In a sensing instrument using a quartz sensor on whose front surface an adsorption layer for adsorbing a substance to be sensed is formed and which changes in natural frequency by the adsorption of the substance to be sensed, the present invention has an object to quickly detect a trouble of the quartz sensor to prevent an operator from recognizing an incorrect measurement result. In the present invention, a level detecting circuit detecting a signal level of an oscillation output of an oscillator circuit is provided, and after the time for stabilization passes after the power-on time, a computer takes a level detection value therein to compare the signal level and a threshold value. Then, when the signal level is lower than the threshold value, the signal level is determined as abnormal and, for example, the abnormality notification is displayed on a display unit, whereby an operator is notified of the occurrence of the abnormality.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2007Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignee: Nihon Dempa Kogyo Co., Ltd.Inventors: Naoki Onishi, Hiroyuki Kukita, Shunichi Wakamatsu
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Patent number: 8051701Abstract: Methods and systems for measuring atmospheric water content, are provided. The method includes measuring a first air temperature and a first air pressure at a first location in a compressor, measuring a second air temperature and a second air pressure at a second location in the compressor, computing a ratio of specific heats from the first and second air temperatures and the first and second air pressures, and determining an atmospheric water content from the ratio of specific heats.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2010Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Charles B. Spinelli, Brian J. Tillotson, Tamaira E. Ross
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Publication number: 20110265694Abstract: A solar umbrella and table apparatus with attached chairs features stand-alone AC power, generated from solar energy. The apparatus features an umbrella having solar collection devices and a table with attached seating chairs. The electrical system of the apparatus converts collected solar energy to an electrical voltage. Batteries store the energy provided by the solar panels. Inverters convert the DC voltage output from the storage batteries to 120 volts AC. Power outlet terminals are located on the umbrella and table apparatus allow 120 volts AC powered devices to access the output of the sine wave power inverters.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2010Publication date: November 3, 2011Inventors: Matthew Portis, Obadiah Hampton
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Patent number: 8047056Abstract: One embodiment of the invention comprises a moisture vapor probe comprising a hollow sleeve and a removable electronics module. The probe has a generally cylindrical hollow sleeve having a sidewall with an inner surface and an outer surface. The sleeve comprises a sensor plate having a moisture vapor sensor and forming a water impermeable barrier with the sidewall. The sleeve has an opening such that a volume is defined by the opening, the sidewall and the sensor plate. The probe further comprises an electronics module removably disposable within the sleeve. The electronics module includes an information transfer unit. The information transfer unit in communication with the moisture vapor sensor and adapted to receive relative humidity information from the moisture vapor sensor.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2008Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: Construction Technology Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Howard M. Kanare, Ed Wagner, Tim Duncan
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Publication number: 20110214491Abstract: A method for testing fluid flow-through through a fabric includes providing a sample of fabric and placing the fabric upon an open upper end of a sample retainer having a receptacle with an upper end configured for securing a sample of the fabric, and having a surface spaced below the sample, placing a fluid injector a predetermined distance above the sample retainer, the fluid injector having a reservoir of fluid and an outlet configured for directing fluid directly upon the sample, and directing the fluid upon the sample and measuring at least one of the linear displacement of the fluid upon the sample, the time for the fluid to pass directly through the sample and the total volume of fluid passing through the sample measured by the amount of fluid retained on the surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2010Publication date: September 8, 2011Inventors: Renee Jane Weinberger, Christopher Nelson, Michael Patrick Shake
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Publication number: 20110214490Abstract: The preferred embodiment of the water leak detector of the present invention comprises a detection device and at least one water sensor. The water sensor includes a pair of elastic conductive metal tapes affixed to at least one tape-like water absorber made of a thin water absorbing material, a socket to which the pair of conductive tapes is plugged into, and a sliding shoe to which the tip of the metal tapes are plugged into. The water absorber is dipped into a salt water pond in the production process so that it includes salt within and on its surface. The detection device includes a housing; a battery socket; an alarm; a toggle switch; a push button switch; and a pair of cables that connects the detection device with the water sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2010Publication date: September 8, 2011Inventor: Masami Sakita
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Patent number: 8007167Abstract: A single chip wireless sensor (1) comprises a microcontroller (2) connected to a transmit/receive interface (3), which is coupled to a wireless antenna (4) by an L-C matching circuit. The sensor (1) senses gas or humidity and temperature. The device (1) is an integrated chip manufactured in a single process in which both the electronics and sensor components are manufactured using standard CMOS processing techniques, applied to achieve both electronic and sensing components in an integrated process. A Low-K material (57) with an organic polymer component is spun onto the wafer to form a top layer incorporating also sensing electrodes (60). This material is cured at 300° C., which is much lower than CVD temperatures. The polyimide when cured becomes thermoset, and the lower mass-to-volume ratio resulting in K, its dielectric constant, reducing to 2.9. The thermoset dielectric, while not regarded as porous in the conventional sense, has sufficient free space volume to admit enough gas or humidity for sensing.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2006Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Silicon Laboratories Inc.Inventor: Timothy Cummins
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Publication number: 20110203355Abstract: Method for determining the intrinsic gel strength of a water-absorbing hydrogel-forming polymeric material, comprising the step of: obtaining a hydrogel of said water-absorbing polymeric material, submitting said hydrogel to a controlled strain application step and measuring the stress; or submitting said hydrogel to a controlled stress application step and measuring the strain, and determining from said measured stress or strain of step c) the modulus of said hydrogel.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2011Publication date: August 25, 2011Applicant: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Torsten Lindner, Matthias Morand, Axel Meyer, Maik Tremel, Michael Rene Weaver
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Patent number: 7997790Abstract: An instrument and associated method are disclosed for the loss-on-drying determination of the volatile content of a wide variety of samples.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2009Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: CEM CorporationInventors: Robert N. Revesz, Michael J. Collins, Sr.
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Patent number: 7997294Abstract: A soil moisture sensing system includes a housing embedded in the soil and having a water chamber adapted to receive water from a water source. A controlled drainage assembly includes a semi-permeable membrane coupled to said water chamber for controllably releasing water from the water chamber. A magnetically actuated switch is coupled to a float in the water chamber to provide a control signal when the water level in the water chamber is at a predetermined level.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2008Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Inventor: Donald Murray
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Patent number: 7994802Abstract: An apparatus (1) is used to examine or monitor the state or state of health of plants (2) with the aid of a bipolar electrode (4) which uses its at least two different poles (5) to measure corresponding potentials of the plant and supply them to a detector and/or memory (7), in particular via an amplifier (9), with the result that conclusions regarding the state of, or the possible damage to, a plant (2) can be drawn from changes in the electrical signals and can ensure remedial action.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2007Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: Peter Osypka Stiftung Stiftung des Burgerlichen RechtsInventor: Peter Osypka
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Publication number: 20110167899Abstract: A method of providing error correction to flow velocity readings of a fluid flowing through a filter arrangement for monitoring the service life of the filter, wherein a filter arrangement, comprising a filter and a sensor device is arranged downstream of the filter, the sensor device including at least one measuring sensor for detecting the flow velocity of the fluid which flows through the filter, and a further measuring sensor for measuring the air humidity of the fluid which flows through the filter. A reading of said second sensor element provides an error correction to the first sensor element.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2011Publication date: July 14, 2011Applicant: CARL FREUDENBERG KGInventors: Jürgen Günther, Thomas Stösser, Heinz Reinhardt, Christopher Klatt
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Publication number: 20110162443Abstract: The invention relates to equipment for concentrating and analyzing components contained in a flowing medium, and an analyzing method applying said equipment. The analyzing equipment comprises a concentrator, including a porous sorbent bed, in which components can be absorbed or adsorbed from the medium flow, said bed being electroconductive, so that components can be desorbed to a washing flow by heating the bed with electric current; and to an analyzer defining the desorbed components, said analyzer being for instance a gas detector. According to the invention, the sorbent bed is in the flowing direction widened towards its outlet end, having for example the shape of a truncated cone. By means of the invention, the temperature in the sorbent bed is equalized by transferring heat in the washing flow towards the bed outlet end, which end receives a weaker heating effect per unit of volume, owing to the widening shape of the bed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 1, 2009Publication date: July 7, 2011Inventors: Janne Petteri Pitkanen, Tero Tapio Hannola, Terhi Marjukka Mattila
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Publication number: 20110138894Abstract: An improved method and computer system is provided, for analyzing the two- or three-dimensional movement of a fluid in an absorbent article that comprises fluid-swellable composite material, which comprises a fluid-swellable solid material, and that comprises void spaces in the fluid-swellable composite material, the fluid-swellable composite material being defined by a virtual two-dimensional or three-dimensional mesh, to determine the performance or property of at least one feature of the fluid-swellable composite material thereof, or the absorbent article, the method comprising: inputting one or more properties for the fluid-swellable (composite) material into a model and evaluating this to determine the performance of a feature of the absorbent article or fluid-swellable composite material thereof, the virtual model.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2010Publication date: June 16, 2011Applicant: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Bruno Ehrnsperger, Mattias Schmidt, Holger Beruda, Rodrigo Rosati, Raffaele Virgilio, Hans-Joerg Diersch, Volker Clausnitzer, Volodymyr Myrnyy
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Publication number: 20110132523Abstract: A surrogate patch assembly for a rework area of a structure comprises a surrogate patch body which may be formed of a material for drawing moisture from the rework area. The patch assembly may include a sensor mounted to the surrogate patch body. The sensor may comprise a thermal sensor for sensing the temperature of the rework area and the surrogate patch body. The sensor may comprise a moisture sensor for sensing moisture drawn into the surrogate patch body.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2009Publication date: June 9, 2011Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANYInventors: Michael W. Evens, Megan N. Watson, Mary H. Vargas
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Publication number: 20110131003Abstract: The invention relates to a process and a monitoring device for monitoring an equipment unit, carried out by a processing device in the monitoring device. The process comprises reading at least one sensor signal and determining, on the basis of the at least one sensor signal, whether the equipment unit has been subjected to an unacceptable stress. If the equipment device has been subjected to an unacceptable stress, a start-up lock for the equipment unit is enabled, and lock status information is stored. The step of determining whether the equipment unit has been subjected to an unacceptable stress may comprise criteria that are dependent upon whether the monitoring device is operating in a low-power mode or a normal power mode. When a signal is received that indicates that the equipment unit is to be started up, it is determined whether the start-up lock has been enabled. If it has been enabled, a warning is activated.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2009Publication date: June 2, 2011Applicant: SAFE INNOVATIONS ASInventor: Oystein Tusvik
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Patent number: 7949163Abstract: A method of observing a consumer product is provided. The method includes placing a consumer product into an imaging machine, and then using the machine to obtain information regarding the product.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2007Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Robert Stephen Honkonen, David John Maltbie
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Publication number: 20110107825Abstract: An indicator device is adapted to be disposed in the soil and is associated with an energy source for anaerobic microorganisms that is released into the soil in a manner to initiate anaerobic microbial activity in the soil in a manner that causes a change in color of the device over time. The color change on the device can be used to indicate the depth of the water table at the tested location.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 12, 2009Publication date: May 12, 2011Inventor: Byron J. Jenkinson
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Patent number: 7927875Abstract: Systems and methods for measuring the moisture and sediment content of a sample. In one embodiment, a sample to be tested is collected in a field bottle. The sample from the field bottle is then transferred from the field bottle, and into and through an analysis bottle containing a desiccant material. As the sample is being pulled through the analysis bottle, a microwave measurement system (or other scattering parameter measuring system) is used to measure the effects of the sample on the scattering parameters of the desiccant material. By measuring the effects of the sample on the scattering parameters of the desiccant material, the sample's moisture content can be determined. The sample's moisture can also be determined by measuring the expanded volume of the desiccant. A filter section having a sight glass with graduations is used to determine the sediment content of the sample.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2009Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: Phase Dynamics, Inc.Inventor: Bentley N. Scott
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Patent number: 7928739Abstract: A sensor for measuring moisture content of a substrate, comprising: a coplanar waveguide; a directional coupler having a pair of generally parallel first and second strips defining a coupling gap therebetween; and a high frequency signal generator electrically coupled to said first strip and operable to couple power to said second strip with the substrate placed across said coupling gap to thereby generate a coupled power signal in said second strip having an amplitude related to moisture content of the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2007Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Faiz Feisal Sherman, Vladimir Garstein, David Burton Moore
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Publication number: 20110036155Abstract: Moisture sensor devices and methods are disclosed herein. One embodiment includes an integrated moisture sensor and controller to be placed in soil comprising a controller circuit for controlling a switch; a sensor circuit comprising a probe and adapted to provide the controller circuit a signal corresponding to a moisture level of the soil. The controller and sensor circuits integrated into a single device positioned within the soil; the switch coupled to the controller circuit and to be coupled to a control line of an irrigation controller at an electrical position between the controller and a valve, the control line to carry a power signal from the controller to the valve; the switch to interrupt irrigation in response to a signal from the controller circuit; the controller circuit is adapted to determine an amount of time for which irrigation is interrupted.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2010Publication date: February 17, 2011Applicant: Rain Bird CorporationInventors: Daniel D. Dresselhaus, Kevin G. O'Brien
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Publication number: 20110030461Abstract: A measuring device for detecting the amount of moisture in and the temperature of a flowing medium is disclosed. Flow-directing elements which mix the flowing medium and direct it in a desired direction are arranged in the measuring device. The average temperature of the medium can thus be detected using a suitably arranged temperature sensor. In addition, the moisture sensor may be arranged in such a manner that a selective amount of moisture in the medium is detected.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2010Publication date: February 10, 2011Inventors: Benjamin Bohl, Peter Balzer
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Publication number: 20100319441Abstract: The same phenomenon as the phenomenon that a component of feed water is adsorbed to the surface of the membrane is used to assess water quality. Specifically, a sensor whose surface has a thin layer made of the same material as the material of the surface of the membrane and which includes a measurement unit such as a quartz crystal sensor that measures an adsorption rate on the thin layer is used to assess an effect of the water quality of the feed water on the membrane on the basis of a change in the adsorption rate on the sensor surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2010Publication date: December 23, 2010Applicant: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Keiko NAKANO, Shinichi TANIGUCHI
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Publication number: 20100318049Abstract: An absorbent layer containing water-absorbing polymeric particles that are surface-treated and that are immobilized by a matrix, formed from a thermoplastic adhesive component, including a thermoplastic polymers and a specific plasticizer, and being free of low weight average molecular weight (e.g. below 1000, or below 2000 or even below 3000 g/mole) tackifiers and plasticizers. The absorbent articles may for example be adult incontinence articles, infant (e.g. baby, toddler) diapers, including training pants, and feminine hygiene articles, such as sanitary napkins.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2009Publication date: December 16, 2010Inventors: Axel Meyer, Robin Lynn McKiernan, Jean-Philippe Marie Autran, Gabriele Stiehl
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Patent number: 7851712Abstract: A measuring instrument for the gravimetric determination of moisture has a housing with a test compartment arranged in the housing, as well as a weighing device installed in the housing. The weighing device includes a sample receiver that is disposed inside the test compartment when in the measuring position. A radiation source arranged in the test compartment which during a test process serves to heat the sample placed on the sample receiver. A suction device, arranged adjacent to the test compartment, remove moisture and any other volatiles given off by the sample during the measurement process providing a more stable flow pattern in the test compartment.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2007Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AGInventor: Paul Lüchinger
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Publication number: 20100307228Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are provided for transporting fluid to a sample such as a sheet of material. The apparatuses and methods may employ a variety of interfaces that facilitate controlled fluid transportation from a lumen for absorption by the sample.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2010Publication date: December 9, 2010Inventor: Andrew Kallmes
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Publication number: 20100300183Abstract: In-line systems for and methods of measuring the moisture content of ceramic material within an extrusion system used to form ceramic articles are disclosed. One method includes arranging, relative to the extrusion system, at least one radio-frequency (RF) sensor system having an RF antenna, and generating through the RF antenna an RF field that resides substantially entirely within the ceramic material. The method also includes, in response to the RF field interacting with the ceramic material, generating in the RF sensor system a signal representative of a raw moisture-content measurement of the ceramic material. The method also includes generating calibration data by performing RF moisture-content measurements on samples of the ceramic material having different known moisture contents, and establishing a calibrated moisture-content measurement using the raw moisture-content signal and the calibration data. Both contact and non-contact systems and measurement methods are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 26, 2009Publication date: December 2, 2010Inventors: David Dasher, Robert John Locker, James Monroe Marlowe
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Publication number: 20100300184Abstract: The current invention relates to a method and apparatus for assessing the condition of a pipeline and also predicting the future rate of deterioration and/or possible failure of the pipeline. The method includes the steps of selecting at least one portion of the pipeline for which the prediction is to be made and, for that portion, monitoring or inspecting and assessing the condition of the pipeline wall, and typically also assessing the condition of any coating of the pipeline at said portion as well as the condition of the soil adjacent the pipeline. The measurement is performed along the length of the portion and preferably around the circumference of the pipeline at said portion. Data is collected for each cell of a grid which represents the said portion and on the basis of the measured data and, selectively, previous data and or reference data, an accurate prediction can be made as to the future condition of the pipeline and also identify potential future problems or required remedial works.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2008Publication date: December 2, 2010Inventors: Malcolm Wayman, Richard Treece
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Patent number: 7836910Abstract: Moisture sensor devices and methods associated with operation of the moisture sensor devices are disclosed herein. One embodiment includes a moisture sensor and controller device adapted to be placed in soil comprising a switch adapted to be coupled to a power control line of an irrigation controller, the power control line for sending an activating power signal to an irrigation valve; a control circuit coupled to the switch; and a sensor circuit coupled to the control circuit and adapted to provide a signal to the control circuit, the signal corresponding to a moisture level of the soil; wherein the control circuit is adapted to control the switch to interrupt the activating power signal based on the signal from the sensor circuit; wherein the switch and the control circuit are both external to the irrigation controller.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2005Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Rain Bird CorporationInventors: Daniel D. Dresselhaus, Kevin G. O'Brien
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Publication number: 20100283993Abstract: A system and a method are disclosed for combining a soil sample and extractant in a mixing chamber to produce a liquid extractant-soil mixture. A portion of the liquid extractant-soil mixture is directed from the mixing chamber through a sample measurement chamber coupled to the mixing chamber. The sample measurement chamber is coupled to a light source so that light propagates from the light source through the portion of the liquid extractant-soil mixture to an optical detector which generates an attenuation spectrum indicating light received by the detector at different wavelengths. The sample measurement chamber may include an attenuation cell having a specified optical path between a first measurement window and a second measurement window and angular surface directing particulates in the liquid extractant-soil mixture away from the attenuation cell.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2010Publication date: November 11, 2010Applicant: SOLUM, INC.Inventors: Michael John Preiner, Nicholas Carleton Koshnick, Justin Stewart White, John Paul Strachan
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Patent number: 7827855Abstract: The present invention generally relates to methods and kits for measuring and analyzing degradation of adsorbent materials, particularly for adsorbent materials used in gas separation processes. The present invention can assess the damage to adsorbent due to contamination including moisture contamination and it can assess damage that is not contaminant-related. The advantage to the present invention is that it can detect degradation of adsorbent directly at the plant site before the degradation affects production. Another advantage is that it can conclusively determine whether the adsorbent is damaged. Because it is so inexpensive to run, the test of the present invention can be conducted to determine adsorbent damage and to confirm whether the damage continues to be an issue. The present invention can test adsorbents in any form, including, but not limited to, bead, pellet or powder form.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2008Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventors: Neil Andrew Stephenson, Philip Alexander Barrett, Steven J. Pontonio, Michael T. Freiert, Jesus Gallego-Preciado Nieto
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Patent number: 7829848Abstract: A gas monitoring apparatus includes a sample introducing portion, a measurement portion, an ionization portion, a mass analysis portion, a data processing portion and a display. The sample introducing portion introduces a sample gas including an object material to be measured. The measurement portion measures a concentration of a predetermined coexisting material, which coexists with the object material in the sample gas. The ionization portion ionizes the sample gas. The mass analysis portion analyzes mass of an ion produced by the ionization portion. The data processing portion analyzes signals detected by the mass analysis portion to calculate a concentration of the object material. And the display displays results of analysis conducted by the data processing portion. The data processing portion includes an adjustment portion which adjusts the concentration of the object material according to the concentration of the predetermined coexisting material.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2008Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., National Research Institute of Police ScienceInventors: Yasuaki Takada, Masao Suga, Hisashi Nagano, Izumi Waki, Hidehiro Okada, Tatsuo Nojiri, Yasuo Seto, Yasuhiro Sano, Shigeharu Yamashiro, Isaac Ohsawa
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Patent number: 7827854Abstract: The present invention generally relates to methods and kits for measuring and analyzing degradation of adsorbent materials, particularly for adsorbent materials used in gas separation processes. The present invention can assess the damage to adsorbent due to moisture contamination and it can assess damage that is not moisture-related. The advantage to the present invention is that it can detect degradation of adsorbent before the degradation affects production. Another advantage is that it can conclusively determine whether the sieve is damaged. Because it is so inexpensive to run, the test of the present invention can be conducted to determine adsorbent damage and to confirm whether the damage continues to be an issue. The present invention can test adsorbents in any form, including, but not limited to, bead, pellet or powder form.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2008Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventors: Neil Andrew Stephenson, Phillip Alexander Barrett, Steven J. Pontonio, Michael T. Freiert, Jesus Gallego-Preciado Nieto