By Residual Capacity Measurement Patents (Class 73/74)
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Patent number: 10977805Abstract: The invention relates to cloud server-based mice intelligent monitoring system and method, the system comprises a thermal infrared camera device, an intelligent terminal and a cloud server connected in sequence, and the thermal infrared camera device monitors activity track of a mouse by using thermal infrared sensing technology and camera technology, and sends monitored video frames to the intelligent terminal; the intelligent terminal discriminates moving object, records the current video frame and marks motion track, and transmits a video segment with the motion track to the cloud server; the cloud server recognizes the moving mouse and stores the current video segment, and marks mouse position and motion trajectory in the current video segment, and then aggregates and analyzes data to obtain relevant parameter information of the moving mouse to realize the intelligent monitoring of the mouse.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2018Date of Patent: April 13, 2021Assignee: Malogic Holdings LimitedInventor: Eliza Wong Ping Far
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Patent number: 10859482Abstract: A method of detecting an organic residue is provided. The method comprises a step of bringing a liquid A into contact with a surface of a base material; a step of measuring the contact angle (i) of a liquid B on the surface with which the liquid A came into contact; a step of heating and drying the base material; a step of measuring the contact angle (ii) of the liquid B on the dried surface; and a step of comparing the contact angle (i) with the contact angle (ii).Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2017Date of Patent: December 8, 2020Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Hyou Takahashi, Yohei Hamade, Ken Ikegame
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Patent number: 9782302Abstract: A wetness sensor includes a substrate that carries a tuned RF circuit. The circuit includes a conductive pattern applied to the substrate, a capacitor, and a jumper all disposed on a same side of the substrate. The conductive pattern includes an inductive coil, and an inner and outer terminus. The jumper electrically couples the inner terminus to the outer terminus. The jumper also includes a frangible link which, when contacted by a target fluid, produces a drastic change in the operation of the RF circuit. The drastic change can be interpreted by a remote reader as a “wet” condition. Contact of the frangible link by the target fluid may change the impedance or resistance of the RF circuit by at least a factor of 5, 10, 100, or more, and/or may cause the frangible link to disintegrate to produce an open circuit, and/or may substantially render the RF circuit inoperative.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2015Date of Patent: October 10, 2017Assignee: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANYInventors: Justin M. Johnson, Lori-Ann S. Prioleau, Brinda B. Badri, James C. Vanous, Robert D. Lorentz, Jacob D. Chatterton, Steven J. Perron, Donald R. Battles
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Patent number: 8978452Abstract: A wetness sensor includes a substrate that carries a tuned RF circuit. The circuit includes a conductive pattern applied to the substrate, a capacitor, and a jumper all disposed on a same side of the substrate. The conductive pattern includes an inductive coil, and an inner and outer terminus. The jumper electrically couples the inner terminus to the outer terminus. The jumper also includes a frangible link which, when contacted by a target fluid, produces a drastic change in the operation of the RF circuit. The drastic change can be interpreted by a remote reader as a “wet” condition. Contact of the frangible link by the target fluid may change the impedance or resistance of the RF circuit by at least a factor of 5, 10, 100, or more, and/or may cause the frangible link to disintegrate to produce an open circuit, and/or may substantially render the RF circuit inoperative.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2011Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Justin M. Johnson, Lori-Ann S. Prioleau, Brinda B. Badri, James C. Vanous, Robert D. Lorentz, Jacob D. Chatterton, Steven J. Perron, Donald R. Battles
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Patent number: 8800353Abstract: Described herein are systems, apparatuses and methods for the design and use of a suction-controlled box for the measurement of stress-dependent soil and water characteristics, shear strength, volume changes and consolidation characteristics from a single unsaturated soil specimen. The suction-controlled box can include a suction control part and a mechanical loading part, which can apply various suctions and mechanical loadings to test a specimen for a full range of suctions. The suction-controlled box can also include a helical water compartment that can flush diffused air bubbles.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2011Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: The Hong Kong University of Science and TechnologyInventor: Charles Wang Wai Ng
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Patent number: 8751169Abstract: A method for identifying the source of vermiculite insulation in situ using a portable spectrometer with a light-emitting contact probe and a personal computer. Identification is accomplished using NIR reflectance spectroscopy and absorption band depth ratios to differentiate between vermiculite sources and to test for the presence of amphibole, talc, or serpentine contaminants in vermiculite insulation.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2011Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Department of the InteriorInventors: Gregg A. Swayze, Heather A. Lowers, Roger N. Clark
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Patent number: 8631686Abstract: Traditional porous material testing does not provide a measure of how well the porous material will perform in oil spill conditions. We disclose a new system that can analyze and determine the absorptive capability and oil-selectivity of a porous material in a moving mixture of oil and water, under different environmental conditions of pressure and wind. Our system allows the porous material under test and the mixture of oil and water to experience complex motion trajectories, and we measure the absorption capacity as well as the rate of oil absorption under different environmental conditions.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2011Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Inventor: Vineel Chakradhar
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Patent number: 8511151Abstract: A pressure sensor, comprising: a semiconductor pressure measuring transducer having a measuring membrane and a circuit for transducing a deformation of the measuring membrane into a signal; a pressure transfer structure having a hydraulic path, which extends through a solid body between a first a second opening. The first opening is sealed by an isolating diaphragm, which is contactable with a pressure, in order to introduce the pressure to be measured into the hydraulic path. The hydraulic path opens, at the second opening, into a transducer chamber, in which the pressure measuring transducer is arranged and which is sealed by the measuring membrane of the pressure measuring transducer. The hydraulic path contains a transfer liquid; a filling element, which is arranged in the transducer chamber, in order to fill hollow spaces between metal walls of the transducer chamber and the semiconductor pressure measuring transducer.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2010Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KGInventors: Raimund Becher, Ralf Nurnberger, Fred Haker, Olaf Krusemark, Olaf Textor
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Publication number: 20130036802Abstract: A wetness sensor includes a substrate that carries a tuned RF circuit. The circuit includes a conductive pattern applied to the substrate, a capacitor, and a jumper all disposed on a same side of the substrate. The conductive pattern includes an inductive coil, and an inner and outer terminus. The jumper electrically couples the inner terminus to the outer terminus. The jumper also includes a frangible link which, when contacted by a target fluid, produces a drastic change in the operation of the RF circuit. The drastic change can be interpreted by a remote reader as a “wet” condition. Contact of the frangible link by the target fluid may change the impedance or resistance of the RF circuit by at least a factor of 5, 10, 100, or more, and/or may cause the frangible link to disintegrate to produce an open circuit, and/or may substantially render the RF circuit inoperative.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2011Publication date: February 14, 2013Inventors: Justin M. Johnson, Lori-Ann S. Prioleau, Brinda B. Badri, James C. Vanous, Robert D. Lorentz, Jacob D. Chatterton, Steven J. Perron, Donald R. Battles
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Publication number: 20130000393Abstract: A moisture content sensing system is described comprising a collar mechanically coupled with a clean grain transport system. An extendable support extends through the collar and has an extendable capacitive sensor element disposed at one end. The extendable support is configured to be located at a first position in which the extendable capacitive sensor element is disposed adjacent to clean grain conveyed by the clean grain transport system and moved to a second position wherein the extendable capacitive sensor element is disposed at least partially within the clean grain of the clean grain transport system.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2011Publication date: January 3, 2013Inventors: Michael Cash, D'Anne Beukelaur Hanks, Arthur F. Lange, Brian Jackman, Brian A. Jackson
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Publication number: 20120216607Abstract: A system is provided for detecting moisture at an absorbent article. The system includes a device arranged to be attached on the absorbent article and a resonance circuit including a moisture sensitive part, wherein the resonance circuit has a first resonance frequency when the moisture sensitive part is in a dry condition and a second resonance frequency when the moisture sensitive part is in a moist condition. The system further includes a monitoring unit being arranged to transmit a test signal to the device, receive a response signal from the device, determine a frequency of the response signal and generate a detection signal if the determined frequency corresponds to the second resonance frequency. There is also provided a method for detecting moisture at a device attached on an absorbent article.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2010Publication date: August 30, 2012Applicant: PAMPETT ABInventors: Johan Sjöholm, Christofer Lundin, Olle Hydbom
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Patent number: 8015860Abstract: A method of measuring the deposition of a composition onto a substrate. This information can be used to correlate how the composition will deposit on sanitary ware, such as shower cubicles, baths, and wash basins. The composition can be a liquid personal cleansing composition.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2008Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive CompanyInventors: Peter R. Hilliard, Jr., Joseph R. Knorr
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Publication number: 20100212410Abstract: A method of measuring the deposition of a composition onto a substrate. This information can be used to correlate how the composition will deposit on sanitary ware, such as shower cubicles, baths, and wash basins. The composition can be a liquid personal cleansing composition.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2008Publication date: August 26, 2010Applicant: COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANYInventors: Peter R. Hilliard, JR., Joseph R. Knorr
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Patent number: 7735356Abstract: A measuring apparatus of submergence aggregate according to the present invention comprising a stock bin for storing fine aggregate, a fine aggregate feed hopper placed under the stock bin, a vibrating feeder placed under a discharge opening of the fine aggregate feed hopper, a screen device placed in the vicinity of an exit of the vibrating feeder, a measurement tank placed under the screen device, an electrode-type displacement sensor as means for measuring a water level placed above the measurement tank, and load cells as mass measuring means for measuring a mass of the measurement tank.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2007Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Obayashi CorporationInventors: Shigeyuki Sogo, Ryuichi Chikamatsu, Koji Watanabe, Hisayoshi Kikkawa
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Patent number: 7516651Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method that relates to determining water content of a solid insulation at a specific location within a transformer. The method comprising, determining a temperature of the solid insulation at a specific location, calculating a relative moisture saturation of the oil at the specific location, calculating the ultimate water content in the solid insulation at the specific location, and calculating an actual water content in the solid insulation at the specific location.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Jacques Aubin, Claude Beauchemin, Nagui Kamel
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Publication number: 20080295582Abstract: This invention relates to various methods for using a thermal imaging apparatus to inspect exterior and interior residential components. In particular these methods can be used to detect mold in residential building components.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2008Publication date: December 4, 2008Inventors: Peng Lee, Kevin J. Seddon
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Patent number: 7437957Abstract: A porous medium tensiometer has a filling mechanism which allows to fill a fluid chamber and simultaneously withdraw gas contained in the fluid chamber. A self-priming tensiometer includes a porous material tip having a first section surrounded by a fluid-impermeable membrane, a second section, a threshold suction range and pores, the pores auto-filling with liquid when in fluid communication with a porous medium having a liquid potential being at least equal, in absolute value, to the threshold suction range, the liquid contained in the pores having a liquid pressure representative of the liquid potential; a one-way fluid control device in fluid communication with the porous material tip and allowing fluid contained in pores of the porous material to exit therethrough when the porous material tip auto-fills with liquid; and a pressure transducer in liquid communication with the porous material tip.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2006Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Assignee: Hortau Inc.Inventors: Philippe Jobin, Jean Caron, Sébastien Descoteaux, Jocelyn Boudreau
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Patent number: 7421887Abstract: A method for moisture detection and removal is provided. The method involves providing discrete feedback as an indication of current moisture accumulation on a surface of a perforated plane, wherein the plane includes at least one moisture sensor, integrated within the surface to form the plane, comparing the indication of current moisture accumulation with a threshold value, when the indication of current moisture accumulation exceeds the threshold value, sending an activation signal to a moisture removal mechanism, removing the current moisture accumulation from an area of the first surface bound by the at least one moisture sensor, and clearing the indication of current moisture accumulation to avoid any unnecessary operation of the moisture removal mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2005Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Scott D. Stackelhouse
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Patent number: 7207212Abstract: A measuring apparatus of submergence aggregate according to the present invention comprising a stock bin for storing fine aggregate, a fine aggregate feed hopper placed under the stock bin, a vibrating feeder placed under a discharge opening of the fine aggregate feed hopper, a screen device placed in the vicinity of an exit of the vibrating feeder, a measurement tank placed under the screen device, an electrode-type displacement sensor as means for measuring a water level placed above the measurement tank, and load cells as mass measuring means for measuring a mass of the measurement tank.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2002Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: Obayashi CorporationInventors: Shigeyuki Sogo, Ryuichi Chikamatsu, Koji Watanabe, Hisayoshi Kikkawa
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Patent number: 7063270Abstract: Irrigation systems, moisture sensors and related methods having a sensor embedded in the ground to sense moisture and help control watering. The sensor is responsive to capacitance changes from ground moisture variations. The sensor uses spaced insulated electrodes which are mounted within a granular filled chamber within a water-permeable shell. The sensor is mounted as part of a ground unit that also includes a high frequency driver that excites the sensor. The ground unit further has a detector circuit which produces a moisture indicating signal based on the capacitance which varies with ground moisture. Also disclosed are controllers that electrically isolate the ground units so that reliable moisture signals can be obtained and used to control irrigation. The controllers can be configured to provide multiple zone operation using a shared controller having shared or independent moisture adjusters.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2003Date of Patent: June 20, 2006Inventors: John R. Bowers, John W. Bowers
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Patent number: 6981405Abstract: A device for determining moisture has an LC-oscillating circuit as a transducer and an oscillator for exciting the oscillating circuit. Further, the device for determining moisture has a tuning device for frequency-wise tuning the oscillator and a measuring and evaluation circuit to determine an attenuation condition of the oscillator and to provide a signal that is proportional to a degree of moisture at the transducer. The transducer and the oscillator are coupled in a contact-free manner.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2002Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: Vogt Electronic AGInventor: Willi Wimmer
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Patent number: 6938461Abstract: A constant-head soil permeameter for determining hydraulic conductivity of earthen materials is inserted into a borehole at the desired test depth. A calibrated reservoir, disposed on the ground surface, is attached thereto with a suitable length of hose. Water is added to the calibrated reservoir and allowed to flow freely into the borehole until an equilibrium level is reached in the borehole and inside the soil permeameter. The water flowing to the permeameter is throttled by buoyant float pressure that is greatly increased by a single lever, lever-lever, or lever-link-lever valve control assembly which provides considerable versatility and mechanical advantage, thereby allowing more constant head control and much greater depths of testing than previously attained by known permeameters. A filtered vent system, backflow check valve, and seals restrict entry of soil particles and debris, thereby minimizing cleaning and maintenance of the invention.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2003Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Inventor: Larry K. Johnson
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Patent number: 6935166Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for determining the moisture content of bulk material, in particular potting soil, wherein the volume of a quantity of bulk material is determined, the weight of the quantity of bulk material is determined, the specific density is then determined from the volume and the weight, and finally the moisture content is determined by comparison with a table. The invention further relates to a method and apparatus for preparing bulk material, in particular potting soil, with a predetermined moisture content, wherein the volume of a quantity of bulk material is determined, the weight of the quantity of bulk material is determined, and water is then added to the quantity of bulk material until the weight associated with the desired moisture content is obtained.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2000Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Assignee: Visser's-Gravendeel Holding B.V.Inventor: Cornelis F. T. Visser
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Patent number: 6913780Abstract: The present invention provides a method for inspecting deposition characteristics of a deposit on the surface of a protective film predominantly containing carbon of a magnetic recording medium, which medium includes a disk and the protective film formed on the disk, the disk including a non-magnetic substrate, a non-magnetic undercoat layer, and a magnetic layer, the layers being formed on the substrate, wherein the method includes comparing a predetermined threshold with the extraction amount of an inspection gas component and/or a compound component formed so as to contain the inspection gas component, the gas component and/or the compound component being extracted with an inspection solvent after the magnetic recording medium is allowed to stand in an atmosphere of the inspection gas component; a process for producing a magnetic recording medium in which the extraction amount is equal to or greater than the threshold, the extraction amount being obtained through the inspection method; and a magnetic recorType: GrantFiled: July 31, 2001Date of Patent: July 5, 2005Assignee: Showa Denko K.K.Inventors: Junya Kato, Mikio Suzuki
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Patent number: 6904789Abstract: A sensor to detect the presence of water or moisture in bulk materials includes a standard circuit board and a three element transmission line. The sensor electronics include an oscillator responsive to a direct current voltage supply which provides a square wave voltage signal. The sensor electronics further include a phase detector which detects the difference in phase between the reference square wave voltage signal and a signal provided to the transmission line buried in a medium. The phase difference is proportional to the dielectric constant of the medium surrounding the transmission line.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2001Date of Patent: June 14, 2005Assignee: Decagon Devices, Inc.Inventors: Gaylon S. Campbell, Warren C. Greenway
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Patent number: 6802205Abstract: A moisture detection system includes an electrical conductor disposed on a surface of a substrate. The electrical conductor has a resonant frequency that varies as a function of an amount of moisture present adjacent the electrical conductor. An oscillator outputs an oscillator signal at a predetermined amplitude and a predetermined frequency. A resonator circuit is coupled to the electrical conductor and is responsive to the oscillator signal and the resonant frequency of the electrical conductor for outputting a resonator signal having an amplitude related to the resonant frequency of the electrical conductor. A filter circuit rectifies and filters the resonator signal and provides it to an analog-to-digital converter which outputs a digital signal related to the rectified and filtered resonator signal. A controller is responsive to the digital signal for causing a system associated with the substrate to operate in accordance with the digital signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2002Date of Patent: October 12, 2004Assignee: PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.Inventors: Pascal Barguirdjian, Michel Haigron, Allan Rex Hawk, Kwaku Koi Koram
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Patent number: 6723151Abstract: A gas removal filter has an ion exchanger for adsorbing a gas and at least a pair of electric resistance measuring electrodes disposed on the ion exchanger. By measuring a change in the electric resistance between at least the pair of electric resistance measuring electrodes disposed on the ion exchanger, it is possible to estimate an ion exchange group consumption ratio of the ion exchanger. The ion exchange group consumption ratio of the ion exchanger can be detected in a short period of time, and a remaining adsorption capability of the ion exchanger can be known with ease.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2002Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: Ebara CorporationInventors: Akira Tanaka, Yoko Suzuki, Takashi Kishi
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Patent number: 6655315Abstract: Moisture indicators comprising, as active principle, copper chloride or another salt capable of releasing Cu++ and Cl− ions, and synergistic salts containing chloride ions, which may be hygroscopic on a suitable support. Depending on the application, the support may be amorphous silica or silica gel; a solid paper support for making a moisture-indicating label; or a bentonite or calcium sulphate for making pellets by mechanical pressing.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2002Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: Levosil S.p.A.Inventor: Marco Gattiglia
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Publication number: 20030219661Abstract: A photosensitive media cartridge includes an ambient condition sensor mounted in the cartridge for sensing ambient conditions in the cartridge. When the cartridge is positioned at a media transfer position on an image-forming device that permits the conveyance of media from the cartridge to the image-forming device, image development or printing on the media in the image-forming device is controlled based on the sensed ambient conditions in the cartridge. The ambient condition sensor includes a cover layer and a conductive layer, wherein a rate of response to ambient conditions of the cover layer matches rate of response to ambient conditions of the photosensitive media to be developed. As a further option, the media itself can include a conductive layer so that the media can be the sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2003Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventors: Loretta E. Allen, Lee Tutt
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Patent number: 6648903Abstract: A medical tensioning cable system provides dynamic tensioning to maintain high tension in a fixation system despite tissue shifting, cable slippage, or other inadvertent loss of tension. An exemplary embodiment of an in-line dynamic tensioning system includes a dynamically tensioning cable retainer, suitably comprising a suture anchor or bone screw, which provides a bias to maintain tension in the cable after installation. The retainer includes a retaining mechanism for retaining the cable or suture and a biasing mechanism connected to the retaining mechanism. In the event of cable slippage or slackening, the biasing mechanism tends to take up the slack and maintain tension. As a result, cable tension is maintained regardless of inadvertent cable slackening after installation.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1998Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Inventor: Raymond H. Pierson, III
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Patent number: 6637259Abstract: A portable grain moisture measurement device automatically initiates testing at a predetermined grain compression and is calibrated to commercial moisture testers found in various commercial grain elevators so the user can select the commercial tester he wants to match moisture measurements with. The portable meter user can thus set the tester to match the commercial tester which will be testing his grain and can also perform calibration offset adjustments to further conform measurements between his meter and the particular commercial tester actually used, relative to the default moisture curves for each commercial tester, and each type of grain.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2001Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Worens Group Inc.Inventors: Trent A. McElhaney, James T. Falbo, John W. Dubay
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Patent number: 6622546Abstract: A moisture content tester for non-destructive multipurpose testing that may be arranged in a drying apparatus or a testing box for proceeding a test of moisture content for an object to be tested and further have setting function for instructable water-containing rate is comprised of shell body, circuit plate, temperature compensation temperature-sensing bar, emitting pole, receiving pole, and controlling unit. A high frequency is emitted from the emitting pole and received by the receiving pole. Again, the received high frequency (sawtooth waveform) signal is transferred to the controlling unit through the circuit plate. The controlling unit then calculates the value of moisture content according to the received high frequency signal and the temperature value measured by the temperature compensation temperature-sensing bar. Further, the drying motion or displayed water-containing rate of the drying apparatus is controlled according to the value of moisture content.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Inventor: Juen-Kong Wu
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Patent number: 6604409Abstract: The cigar moisture meter comprises a probe engaged to an ohmmeter circuit, the probe being injected into the tip of a cigar to provide a reading of moisture content within the cigar by a measurement of resistance across the leads of the probe.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2001Date of Patent: August 12, 2003Inventor: Rudolph C. Caldwell
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Patent number: 6553813Abstract: A moisture meter (1) has a hand-held casing (2) with a digital microcontroller (50), LCD display (4), and a keypad (3). Spring-loaded contacts (6) contact material and allow capacitive impedance measurement via electrodes (5) and drive/pickup circuits (20). Also, a relative humidity probe (9) provides an input so that the processor generates both moisture contact near-surface measurements and also relative humidity measurements. This allows optimum analysis of material.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2001Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: Rynhart Research LimitedInventors: Alan Rynhart, John Fallon, James McIlroy
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Patent number: 6499338Abstract: Moisture management indexes are determined for a textile sandwiched between two plates. Electrical conductors arranged in concentric opposing pairs are used to measure changes in electrical resistance of the fabric. A quantity of water (or other chosen liquid) is poured down a guide pipe and changes of resistance measured against time. From this data, specific indexes are determined, in a repeatable fashion, and used for determining moisture management characteristics of the fabric.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Hong Kong Polytechnic UniversityInventors: Yi Li, Weilin Xu, Kwok-wing Yeung, Yi-lin Kwok
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Publication number: 20020160285Abstract: A photosensitive media cartridge includes an ambient condition sensor mounted in the cartridge for sensing ambient conditions in the cartridge. When the cartridge is positioned at a media transfer position on an image-forming device that permits the conveyance of media from the cartridge to the image-forming device, image development or printing on the media in the image-forming device is controlled based on the sensed ambient conditions in the cartridge. The ambient condition sensor includes a cover layer and a conductive layer, wherein a rate of response to ambient conditions of the cover layer matches rate of response to ambient conditions of the photosensitive media to be developed. As a further option, the media itself can include a conductive layer so that the media can be the sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2002Publication date: October 31, 2002Inventors: Loretta E. Allen, Lee Tutt
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Publication number: 20020071999Abstract: A photosensitive media cartridge includes an ambient condition sensor mounted in the cartridge for sensing ambient conditions in the cartridge. When the cartridge is positioned at a media transfer position on an image-forming device that permits the conveyance of media from the cartridge to the image-forming device, image development or printing on the media in the image-forming device is controlled based on the sensed ambient conditions in the cartridge. The ambient condition sensor includes a cover layer and a conductive layer, wherein a rate of response to ambient conditions of the cover layer matches rate of response to ambient conditions of the photosensitive media to be developed. As a further option, the media itself can include a conductive layer so that the media can be the sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2000Publication date: June 13, 2002Applicant: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Loretta E. Allen, Lee Tutt
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Publication number: 20020062114Abstract: An absorbent article that make it possible to assess the amount of the liquid discharging from human body and other spots as well as spreading on a floor without depending on determining a weight difference of the absorbent body (weight after absorption-weight before absorption). An absorbent article comprises a liquid pervious topsheet 101, a liquid impervious backsheet 102 and absorbent body 103 having the capability of retaining liquids positioned therebetween, the absorbent article comprising a topsheet having a mesh-type scale 104 on its outer surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2001Publication date: May 23, 2002Inventors: Kouichi Murai, Yuria Murai
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Patent number: 6250139Abstract: A method for measuring the moisture content in powders or other granular products or for measuring the dry matter of liquid products. The method includes the steps of placing the product on a scoop (8) and weighing it, then inserting the product on the scoop in a sealed glass tube (7), passing a dry gas stream to evacuate the product water content outside of the tube, such that the elimination step is carried out in a closed circuit independently of ambient air in the place where the product is being analyzed before measuring the drained product. The invention also relates to a measuring apparatus for implementing the method. This apparatus includes the sealed glass tube, a dry gas source, one or several sheaths or cells which house the glass tube and which are used for draining the product, gas flow regulators (2), one or several manometers (13), and a pump (14).Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2000Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Inventor: André Klein
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Patent number: 6234008Abstract: A soil specimen rests on a porous support. The support may be a porous ceramic plate or other body, for instance rated at 15 bar (1,500 kPa) or greater. The plate overlies a reservoir full of water that hydraulically contacts either an elastic membrane, that is fitted with a strain gauge, or a pressure transducer. As the soil specimen dries out, water is drawn from the pore space, which decreases the amount of water surrounding the soil particles, causing an increase in the pore water tension. The tension draws water from the saturated plate and reservoir, causing a change in the output of the strain gauge or pressure transducer. The tension is transduced by the strain gauge or pressure transducer, and is continuously recorded. The entire apparatus described above may rest on a balance. As the soil dries out, and its mass is reduced, the change in mass can be measured, and from the change, the mass of the remaining soil and water can be determined.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1999Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Kurt Sjoblom, John T. Germaine
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Patent number: 6176121Abstract: A method for determining the residual moisture content during secondary drying in the dry product of a freeze-drying process is disclosed. In order to determine the residual moisture content without interruption of the drying process is suggested that the desorption rate is measured at certain intervals (for example 10 minutes) during the secondary drying phase. A computer calculates from two or several of these measured values the time at which a desorption rate would be reached (desorption rate zero point) which would alter the desired residual moisture by only a tolerably small amount. The respective residual moisture is determined by the computer by chronological integration of desorption rates from zero point until the moment of measurement taking.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1997Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Inventor: Georg-Wilhelm Oetjen
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Patent number: 5969243Abstract: The invention relates to a humidity sensor for capacitive measurement of the humidity contained in a material, predominantly a bulk product. For parallel operation of several humidity sensors, one individual humidity sensor has to fulfil particularly high requirements with regard to accuracy, sensitivity and interchangeability. These requirements are fulfilled by the humidity sensor as per the invention firstly in that at least one pole of a stray field condenser arranged in the humidity sensor is fitted as a conductive layer on the side of a closer plate in the casing of the humidity sensor which is turned away from the material or bulk product. Furthermore, there is arranged in the casing a digital arithmetic-logic unit which exhibits a calibration table stored in a digital memory for determination of humidity levels as a function of measurement signals in a capacity measurement circuit which measures the capacity of the stray field condenser and of interference values affecting the humidity sensor.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 1997Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Assignee: Liebherr-Mischtechnik GmbHInventors: Werner Frey, German Gotz
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Patent number: 5685192Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring isotherms comprising a two-pressure and/or two-temperature humidity generator having a temperature controlled internal chamber and a microbalance mounted externally such that the mass of a sample suspended within the chamber can be determined without disturbing the controlled environment surrounding the sample. The two-pressure humidity generator has a front panel for controlling humidity and temperature within the internal chamber and an access port that extends into the internal chamber. The balance is situated near the port such that the balance mechanism extends within the internal cheer. The balance mechanism utilizes a means for holding a sample within the chamber such that the mass of the sample can be determined as it equilibrates to the temperature and relative humidity maintained within the internal cavity.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 1996Date of Patent: November 11, 1997Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Katherine A. Shriner, Robert A. Curtis, Thomas F. Falls
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Patent number: 5568818Abstract: To determine the density of a stream of fibrous material on a cigarette manufacturing machine, two different measurements are performed, the first of which is capacitive and supplies a first signal as a function of the density of the dry component and of the density of the liquid in the stream of fibrous material, and the second of which is ultrasonic and supplies a second signal indicating the density of the dry component; the second signal is combined with the first signal to obtain a third signal indicating the density of the liquid in the stream of fibrous material; and, from the third and second signals, a fourth signal is obtained indicating the density of the stream of fibrous material as the sum of the density of the dry component and of the liquid in the stream of fibrous material.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1994Date of Patent: October 29, 1996Assignee: G.D Societa' Per AzioniInventors: Armando Neri, Giancarlo Santin, Giovanni Squarzoni
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Patent number: 5550532Abstract: A device and method for containing spills and leaks from fuel handling equipment is provided in which differential sensing means detect the presence of hydrocarbons and nonhydrocarbons such as water. Signals and the responses generated according to them may depend upon the nature and quantity of the substance contained in the device. Signalling may be conducted remotely and excavation and reconstruction of service station grounds is minimized with these devices. In a preferred embodiment, the device is made of unitary construction with the differential sensing means formed as a portion of the surface of a containment vessel.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 1994Date of Patent: August 27, 1996Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventor: Glen R. Marshall
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Patent number: 5492023Abstract: An apparatus for automatically determining the rate of plasticizer absorption of a powdery resin sample such as a vinyl chloride resin sample. The apparatus for automatically determining the rate of plasticizer absorption of a powdery resin sample is one in which the rate of plasticizer absorption is determined by treating, in a centrifugal separator 10, a powdery resin contained in an inspection container 2 together with an excess of a plasticizer, to remove from the powdery resin sample the excess plasticizer, and determining the amount of the plasticizer absorbed by and remaining in the powdery resin.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1993Date of Patent: February 20, 1996Assignee: Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hajime Kitamura, Masaru Takeuchi, Hideo Yoshikoshi, Mikio Kitai, Takashi Chino, Yuji Nogami, Hajime Yashiro, Keisuke Kato
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Patent number: 4911003Abstract: A method and apparatus for rapidly determining the print quality of a porous material which includes contacting a porous surface with a source of ink, and then providing a known relative acceleration between the ink source and the porous surface. In this manner, a predetermined volume of ink is transferred from the ink source to a known area of the porous surface. Then, the amount of ink transferred into the porous surface area per unit of time is measured to thereby determine the time between initial ink contact and the initial ink penetration, referred to as the wetting delay, the penetration rate of ink into the porous surface, and the volumetric roughness of the porous material. All of these latter parameters are closely correlated to print quality.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1988Date of Patent: March 27, 1990Assignee: Hewlett-Packard CompanyInventor: Steven J. Bares
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Patent number: 4817697Abstract: An apparatus for grooving a tire which comprises a tire support shaft for rotatably supporting the tire and a support frame having a cutter device mounted thereon. The cutter device and the tire support shaft are movable relative to each other in a transverse direction parallel with the tire support shaft and perpendicular to the tire support shaft. The cutter is supportable at a desired angle with the tread surface, and the cutter blade is rotatable in the direction of the groove to be formed. The cutting position of the cutter is on the axis of an arm support shaft and is controllable by the combination of orthogonal coordinates to simplify the control program for the apparatus. When required, the cutter is swingably attached to a cutter holder to enable the cutter to cut the tire rubber and to be released therefrom with ease without the need to heat the cutter.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1988Date of Patent: April 4, 1989Assignee: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Inc.Inventors: Masao Takami, Toru Nagahata, Masakazu Arita, Eigi Shibata, Tadahiko Tamura
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Patent number: 4748400Abstract: A moisture measurement and control system controlling the amount of moisture in paper being manufactured by papermaking machinery, for example, linerboard, utilizes a standard scanning moisture sensor to calibrate a nonscanning moisture sensor to thus provide very fast and accurate moisture measurements for each zone of the moving paper. The measurement is communicated to a fast response time moisture profiler, for example, of the quartz heater type. In addition, the nonscanning moisture measurement unit, which utilizes capacitive electrodes, has improved accuracy due to its electrode arrangement and signal processing technique.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 1987Date of Patent: May 31, 1988Assignee: Impact Systems, Inc.Inventor: Pekka M. Typpo
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Patent number: 4546645Abstract: Capacitative device for measuring the moisture content of granular or powder materials, particularly materials in motion on a conveyor belt or in a pipe comprising a capacitative probe provided with at least two electrodes separated by an insulating zone and in contact with the material being examined, a support frame for the capacitative probe, and high frequency oscillator circuit associated with the electrodes in order to supply an alternating voltage of a frequency variable with the moisture content. The probe, which has a cylindrical body may be rotated by a motor and comprises cleaning scrapers mounted on the frame which cooperate with the body of the probe when the latter is rotating.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1983Date of Patent: October 15, 1985Assignee: L'Etat Francais represente par le Ministere de l'Urbanisme et du Logement, Laboratoire Central des Ponts et ChausseesInventors: Jean P. Delmulle, Bernard Torchet