Electrical Patents (Class 73/753)
-
Patent number: 8887575Abstract: One or more reactive gases are introduced to a capacitance manometer at a particular area or areas of the diaphragm between the inner and outer capacitive electrodes so the error-inducing measurement effects of positive and negative bending are neutralized or minimized. Additionally, a guard structure may be used with the electrode structure of the capacitance manometer. The guard structure presents an area that is relatively insensitive to the diffusion of the gas into the diaphragm and the resulting changing surface tension, thus providing increased or optimal stability of the zero reading of the manometer. The guard may also provide electrostatic isolation of the electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2012Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Steven D. Blankenship, Paul D. Lucas
-
Patent number: 8887576Abstract: The invention provides a submersible, electrically-powered sensor assembly that incorporates a flexible seal assembly having operative and non-operative electrical traces of a uniform vertical height for carrying clamping loads and avoiding signal loss along a signal carrying trace due to compression of the flex seal, minimizing fluid leak paths between two flange surfaces, providing stability in compression, and enabling electrical communication in an environment having an operating fluid.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2012Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: S3C, Inc.Inventor: Joe Castagna
-
Patent number: 8881596Abstract: An MEMS pressure sensor is designed to reduce or eliminate thermal noise, such as temperature offset voltage output. The pressure sensor includes a pressure sensing element having a diaphragm, and a cavity formed as part of the pressure sensing element, where the cavity receives a fluid such that the diaphragm at least partially deflects. The pressure sensing element also includes a plurality of piezoresistors, which are operable to generate a signal based on the amount of deflection in the diaphragm. At least one trench is integrally formed as part of the pressure sensing element, and an adhesive connects the pressure sensing element to the at least one substrate such that at least a portion of the adhesive is attached to the trench and redistributes thermally induced stresses on the pressure sensing element such that the thermally induced noise is substantially eliminated.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2012Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.Inventors: Jen-Huang Albert Chiou, Shiuh-Hui Steven Chen
-
Patent number: 8869623Abstract: A semiconductor pressure sensor includes: a case; a pressure inlet port through which a measurement target fluid is introduced into the case; an atmosphere inlet port through which atmosphere is introduced; and a sensor chip configured to measure the pressure of the fluid with respect to atmospheric pressure. The pressure inlet port and the atmosphere inlet port are disposed on the same surface side of the case. The pressure inlet port is communicated with the inside of the case.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2011Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventor: Naoki Yahata
-
Patent number: 8863578Abstract: A pressure gauge mounted to a pump or a back pressure regulator in an HPLC, SFC, or SFE system provides improved solvent exchange and improved measurement precision. A through hole having an inside diameter of 1.0 mm is made in a hexagonal member similar in shape to a pipe joint. A part of the hexagonal member is cut away to form a flat surface such that the distance to the outside periphery of the through hole is 0.5 mm to serve as a strain-measurement strain gauge attaching surface. One strain gauge is attached to the center of the strain-measurement strain gauge attaching surface, and two strain gauges are attached for temperature correction, one on the same surface as the strain-measurement strain gauge attaching surface and the other on an outside surface of the hexagonal member.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2011Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: JASCO CorporationInventors: Takeshi Kanomata, Hiroaki Yamura
-
Patent number: 8863581Abstract: A digital pressure gauge is configured for coupling with an external fluid pipe, and includes a housing, a pressure sensing unit, a battery seat and a cover. The housing includes an inlet for coupling with the external fluid pipe to permit flow of fluid from the external fluid pipe into the housing. The pressure sensing unit is operable to sense fluid pressure of the fluid flowing through the inlet. The battery seat is disposed in the housing for receiving a battery. The housing is formed with an opening registered with the battery seat to permit placement of the battery in and removal of the battery from the battery seat through the opening. The cover is removably attached to the housing.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2012Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Kita Sensor Tech. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Andy Chen, John He
-
Publication number: 20140298915Abstract: A composite material includes a polymer matrix and silica gel, which is bound in the polymer matrix. The volume fraction of the silica gel to the volume fraction of the composite material amounts to at least 50%, especially at least 65%. An electronic device, especially measuring device, includes at least one housing having at least one inner space, which contains an electronic circuit, wherein the device has at least one gas path, via which moisture can get into the housing, wherein the device has at least one formed body of the composite material.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2011Publication date: October 9, 2014Applicant: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KGInventors: Thomas Uehlin, Andreas Rossberg, Sergej Lopatin
-
Patent number: 8850896Abstract: A physical quantity detector includes a diaphragm including a displacement part that is displaced under external pressure, a ring-shaped fixing part that holds an outer circumferential part of the diaphragm, a holding member having a projection part that projects from an inner circumference of the fixing part toward a center at one surface side of the diaphragm, a support fixed to the projection part, and a pressure-sensitive device having a first base part fixed to the displacement part, a second base part fixed to the support, and a pressure-sensitive part provided between the base parts.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2012Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventors: Kenta Sato, Naoki Kitahara
-
Publication number: 20140251021Abstract: A miniature pressure scanning system includes a plurality of miniature pressure sensors where each pressure sensors includes at least one sensor output for providing an analog output signal indicative of a detected pressure on a body, and each pressure sensor output has an associated output impedance; a plurality of buffers, each buffer electrically connected to the output port of a corresponding one of the pressure sensors, and configured to reduce the associated output impedance of the corresponding sensor output coupled thereto, and further configured to provide at an output of the buffer the analog output pressure signal from the pressure sensor; and a multiplexer coupled downstream of the plurality of buffers and configured to multiplex the buffered analog output pressure signals to output a multiplexed analog signal representing the detected pressures.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2013Publication date: September 11, 2014Applicant: MEASUREMENT SPECIALTIES, INC.Inventor: Steven Mark Keeter
-
Patent number: 8820170Abstract: Techniques disclosed herein include systems and methods for pressure measurement of fluids including vehicular fluids. The pressure sensor includes a MEMS die for pressure measurement. The MEMS die is attached to a glass pedestal member. The pedestal member is mechanically held in place via a mounting frame that attachable to a pressure port of a fluid-containing enclosure. Techniques herein provide a strong connection of a MEMS die to a pressure sensor while decoupling thermal expansion stress from the MEMS die. With such decoupling techniques, pressure sensing reliability and accuracy can be improved. With thermal expansion stress decoupled from the MEMS die, sensor sealing materials can be selected for their robust chemical properties instead of structural properties. Such techniques provide an accurate, durable, and cost-effective pressure sensor.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2012Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Sensata Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Rob Slakhorst, Gerard Klaasse, Erik Hop, Arnout van den Bos, Wico Hopman
-
Publication number: 20140224029Abstract: An apparatus for remote inspection of fire extinguishers at one or a system of fire extinguisher stations includes, e.g., at each fire extinguisher station: a detector for lack of presence of a fire extinguisher in its installed position at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for out-of-range pressure of contents of the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for an obstruction to viewing of or access to the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; and a device for transmission of inspection report information from the fire extinguisher station to a remote central station.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2014Publication date: August 14, 2014Applicant: en-Gauge, Inc.Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, JR., Brendan T. McSheffrey
-
Patent number: 8800377Abstract: A contact force sensor package includes a substrate layer having a vibration detection unit and a pair of first junction pads that are electrical connection ports which are provided on an upper surface of the substrate layer, a flexible circuit substrate layer having a pair of second junction pads provided at a position corresponding to the first junction pads and electrically connected to the first junction pad, a vibration transfer unit having one side contacting the vibration detection unit and the other side contacting a human body and transferring a sphygmus wave of the human body to the vibration detection unit, and an adhesion layer formed between the substrate layer and the flexible circuit substrate layer to reinforce a junction force between the substrate layer and the flexible circuit substrate layer, the adhesion layer being not formed in an area overlapping at least the vibration transfer unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2008Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jong-pal Kim
-
Patent number: 8800378Abstract: The invention is for a method and apparatus for a pressure measuring cell for measuring a metered pressure, with a base body having at least one base body electrode and with a membrane body connected to the base body to form a sensor chamber, which has at least one membrane electrode and can be subjected to the pressure of a medium that is below the measurement pressure, wherein both the wall of the sensor chamber that is formed by the base body and the wall of the sensor chamber that is formed by the membrane body is covered with a protective layer; according to the invention, the protective layer is fashioned as a glass layer.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2011Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: VEGA Grieshaber KGInventors: Thomas Kopp, Jörn Jacob, Martin Mellert, Josef Fehrenbach, Thomas Deck
-
Publication number: 20140216165Abstract: A subsea retrievable pressure sensor for measuring fluid pressure at a well or other subsea fluid system. In one embodiment, a pressure sensor assembly includes a subsea pressure housing, a first pressure sensor, an electrical connector, a first hydraulic connector, and a latching mechanism. The first pressure sensor is disposed within the housing, and the electrical connector and first hydraulic connector are disposed in wall of the housing. The electrical connector is electrically coupled to the first pressure sensor to communicate electrical power though the housing to the first pressure sensor and to communicate pressure measurement values from the first pressure sensor through the housing. The first hydraulic connector is hydraulically coupled to the first pressure sensor to communicate hydraulic pressure to the first pressure sensor through the housing. The latching mechanism extends through the housing to secure the housing to a subsea receptacle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2011Publication date: August 7, 2014Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATIONInventors: Peter Hayward, Keith Mottram, Chris Donnelly, Stefan Maass
-
Publication number: 20140202255Abstract: In a fluid pressure sensor with a pressure sensing membrane and an electronic circuit, the electronic circuit is in a section realized so thin that a membrane is formed in this section of the electronic circuit. In the other sections, the electronic circuit is realized thicker than in the section that forms the membrane. This makes it possible to manufacture a particularly compact fluid pressure sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2014Publication date: July 24, 2014Applicant: Hella KGaA Hueck & Co.Inventors: Thomas NIEMANN, Jurgen PALLOKS
-
Patent number: 8783112Abstract: A gas monitoring system is disclosed. The gas monitoring system may have a first electrode in fluid communication with a first gas and a second gas, and a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode to contain the second gas between the first and second electrodes. The gas monitoring system may also have a pulse generator configured to apply a series of voltage pulses to the first and second electrodes and create a plasma in the second gas. Each voltage pulse in the series of voltage pulses may have an incrementally higher voltage amplitude than a preceding voltage pulse in the series of voltage pulses. The gas monitoring system may further have a detection controller in communication with the pulse generator. The detection controller may be configured to detect breakdown of the second gas during application of one of the series of voltage pulses, and based on a voltage amplitude of the one of the series of voltage pulses, determine a parameter of the first gas.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2011Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventor: Sergey Korenev
-
Patent number: 8783113Abstract: A pressure sensor of the MEMS and/or NEMS type is disclosed, including: at least one first deformable cavity (20) to receive pressure variations from an ambient atmosphere, this first deformable cavity being made in a first substrate and including at least one mobile or deformable wall (25), arranged at least partially in the plane parallel to the first substrate, called plane of the sensor, pressure variations from an ambient atmosphere being transmitted to said cavity, a detector (24, 24?) for detecting a displacement or deformation, in the plane of the sensor, of said mobile or deformable wall, under the effect of a pressure variation of the ambient atmosphere.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2011Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Commissariat à{grave over ( )} l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternativesInventors: Philippe Robert, Arnaud Walther
-
Patent number: 8776607Abstract: An electrical property measuring apparatus for pressure sensor includes a first plate, a second plate, an object to be measured, an electrical property measuring unit used for measuring the electrical properties of the object, and a fluid supplying system. The second plate is opened or closed relative to the first plate. The object is disposed between the first plate and the second plate. The fluid supplying system connects to a space formed by the first plate and a pressed surface or a space formed by the second plate and a pressed surface. The fluid supplying system provides a fluid to the space such that the fluid presses on the object and the electrical property measuring unit measures the electrical properties of the object. A method of measuring electrical property for pressure sensor is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Industrial Technology Research InstituteInventors: Jyun-Kai Ciou, Yan-Rung Lin, Chang-Ho Liou
-
Patent number: 8763466Abstract: A gauge pressure sensor for determining the pressure of a medium by means of a housing and by means of a measuring element, which is positioned in the housing, wherein an outwards facing side of the measuring element is in contact with the medium and is exposed to the pressure, which is to be measured. A tube for a reference pressure is provided, which conducts ambient air to the measuring element, and by means of at least one dehumidifying chamber, positioned in the housing, for the collection of air moisture.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2011Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KGInventors: Elmar Wosnitza, Michael Hugel, Sergej Lopatin, Thomas Uehlin, Olaf Textor, Hansjorg Brock
-
Publication number: 20140174188Abstract: A device for measuring pressure having at least one pressure sensor with at least one active sensor surface, an oscillating and/or variable temperature counter-surface arranged opposite the at least one sensor surface, wherein the sensor surface and the counter-surface are arranged in a hollow body, and the hollow body has at least one opening, and wherein at least one alternating signal amplifier is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2013Publication date: June 26, 2014Applicant: Pfeiffer Vacuum GmbHInventor: Armin Conrad
-
Patent number: 8752433Abstract: A process variable transmitter for measuring a pressure of a process fluid includes a first inlet configured to couple to a first process pressure and a second inlet configured to couple to a second process pressure. A differential pressure sensor couples to the first and second inlets and provides an output related to a differential pressure between the first pressure and the second pressure. A first pressure sensor couples to the first inlet and provides an output related to the first pressure. Transmitter circuitry provides a transmitter output based upon the output from the differential pressure sensor and further provides enhanced functionality based upon the output from the first pressure sensor.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2012Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Assignee: Rosemount Inc.Inventor: Robert C. Hedtke
-
Publication number: 20140150561Abstract: A passively powered gas sensor for remotely reading and transmitting a gas pressure of a system, comprising a hollow cylindrical body, a stem axially aligned and extending outwardly from a first surface of the hollow cylindrical body, a pressure sensing element in the stem, and an antenna coupled to the pressure sensing element, where the antenna is located within the hollow cylindrical body and the stem. The pressure sensing device is polled remotely by a polling device, and powered by the polling device.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2013Publication date: June 5, 2014Applicant: B/E Aerospace, Inc.Inventors: Chad Richardson, Wayne Noehren
-
Patent number: 8707794Abstract: A pressure sensor device includes a semiconductor pressure sensor element and a base part. The base part includes a mounting surface, a through hole having an opening on the mounting surface and configured to introduce a fluid to the semiconductor pressure sensor element, a soldered part that is to be soldered and is provided on the mounting surface, and a step-like structure formed on the mounting surface between the opening and the soldered part.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2011Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Mitsumi Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takashi Usui
-
Patent number: 8701495Abstract: An apparatus for remote inspection of fire extinguishers at one or a system of fire extinguisher stations includes, e.g., at each fire extinguisher station: a detector for lack of presence of a fire extinguisher in its installed position at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for out-of-range pressure of contents of the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for an obstruction to viewing of or access to the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; and a device for transmission of inspection report information from the fire extinguisher station to a remote central station.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2012Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, Jr., Brendan T. McSheffrey
-
Publication number: 20140102209Abstract: This disclosure provides example methods, devices and systems associated with filter structures employed with sensors. In one embodiment, a method comprises receiving, at a first filter having a plurality of pores, a pressure, wherein the pressure includes a static pressure component and a dynamic pressure component; filtering, by the first filter, at least a portion of the dynamic pressure component of the pressure; outputting, from the first filter, a filtered pressure; and wherein the filtered pressure is used to determine the dynamic pressure component.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2013Publication date: April 17, 2014Applicant: KULITE SEMICONDUCTOR PRODUCTS, INC.Inventor: Nora Kurtz
-
Patent number: 8695431Abstract: Sensors used in mapping strata beneath a marine body are described, such as in a towed array. A first acoustic sensor uses a piezoelectric sensor mounted with a thin film separation layer of flexible microspheres on a rigid substrate. Additional non-acoustic sensors are optionally mounted on the rigid substrate for generation of output used to reduce noise observed by the acoustic sensors. A second sensor is a motion sensor including a conductive liquid in a chamber between a rigid tube and a piezoelectric motion film circumferentially wrapped about the tube. Combinations of acoustic, non-acoustic, and motion sensors co-located in rigid streamer housing sections are provided, which reduce noise associated with different sensor locations.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2011Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: Solid Seismic, LLCInventor: Richard E. Pearce
-
Publication number: 20140100518Abstract: In various embodiments, a device for delivering pressurized irrigation may include a squeeze plate and a pressure sensor module. The squeeze plate may move relative to the pressure sensor module to apply pressure to a flexible container (e.g., a bag of irrigation fluid) between the squeeze plate and the pressure sensor module. The pressure sensor module may include a pressure sensor to measure a force exerted on the pressure sensor module by the flexible container as pressure is applied to the flexible container from the squeeze plate. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor module may include a bag contact plate and the pressure sensor may measure a force exerted on the bag contact plate by the flexible container located between the bag contact plate and the squeeze plate. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor may sense a pressure associated with the flexible container without an intervening bag contact plate.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2012Publication date: April 10, 2014Applicant: Alcon Research, Ltd.Inventors: Vincent A. Baxter, Rapheal Gordon, Gregory S. Layser, Sean Christopher Madden, Gary P. Sorensen, Daniel J. Wilson
-
Publication number: 20140090477Abstract: Systems and methods for an internally switched multiple range transducer are provided. In one embodiment, a method comprises receiving, at a first sensor, a pressure, wherein the first sensor is associated with a first pressure range; measuring, at the first sensor, the pressure to generate a first pressure signal; in response to determining that the first pressure signal is not associated with the first pressure range, activating a second sensor, wherein the second sensor is associated with a second pressure range that is different from the first pressure range; and measuring, at the second sensor, the pressure to generate a second pressure signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2013Publication date: April 3, 2014Applicant: KULITE SEMICONDUCTOR PRODUCTS, INC.Inventor: Nora Kurtz
-
Patent number: 8683867Abstract: An aspect of a pressure sensor package is that a condensed droplet can be prevented from solidifying and blocking the hole of a pressure inlet pipe, without increasing the external dimensions of the package. Aspects of the invention include a groove in a wall surface of a hole of a pressure inlet pipe, a droplet condensed on the wall surface spreads along the groove by a capillary action, and it is possible to prevent the hole of the pressure inlet pipe being blocked by the droplet.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kimihiro Ashino
-
Patent number: 8683868Abstract: A transducer, generally 10, has a robust, yet very flexible, steel-braid reinforced protective cover 12 which is permanently assembled to a custom machined fitting 14. A typical pressure transducer 16 is threaded through a SST nut 18 and then through the cover 12. Bonding the transducer body to the cover's fitting 14 captures the nut 18 between a flange 16A on the transducer 16 and a shoulder 18A in the nut 18, allowing the nut 18 to be freespinning yet a permanent part of the assembly 10.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2010Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Graco Minnesota Inc.Inventors: Glen W. Davidson, Thomas E. Pauly
-
Patent number: 8671753Abstract: The present disclosure relates to sensors including pressure sensors, humidity sensors, flow sensors, etc. In some cases, a cable harness assembly for connection with a sensor assembly may include a cable cover having a first end and a second end, a cable extending through an opening in the first end of the of the cable cover, and a crimp ring configured to engage the cable at a position within the cable cover, such that the attached crimp ring may not fit through the opening. The second end of the cable cover may be configured to connect to a housing of an electrical connector. Further, the cable may have wires that may be configured to electrically connect to electrical terminals of the electrical connector. In some instances, the electrical connector may be electrically connected to a sensor.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2011Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Todd Eckhardt, Pavan R. Kashyap, Jim Machir, Palani Thanigachalam
-
Patent number: 8671766Abstract: Some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to improved package assemblies for pressure sensing elements. Rather than leaving a pressure sensing element unabashedly exposed to the ambient environment in a manner that makes it susceptible to damage from stray wires, dirt, and the like; the improved package assemblies disclosed herein include a cover that helps form an enclosure around the pressure sensing element. The cover includes a fluid-flow channel with a blocking member arranged therein. The fluid-flow channel puts the pressure sensing element in fluid communication with the external environment so pressure measurements can be taken, while the blocking member helps protect the pressure sensing element from the external environment (e.g., stray wires and dirt to some extent). In this way, the package assemblies disclosed herein help promote more accurate and reliable pressure measurements than previous implementations.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2011Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Infineon Technologies AGInventors: James William Sterling, Steven Gross
-
Patent number: 8656786Abstract: The present disclosure relates to sensors including pressure sensors, humidity sensors, flow sensors, etc. In some cases, a sensor unit subassembly for installation in or use with a pressure sensor housing may include at least one pressure sensor signal output terminal supported by a printed circuit board, a pressure input port, and a pressure sense element secured relative to one or more printed circuit boards. The printed circuit board(s) may include circuitry configured to format pressure output signals provided by the pressure sense element into a particularly chosen output format, and may provide the formatted pressure output signal(s) to an attached electrical connector of the pressure sensor housing. In some cases, the sensor unit subassemblies can be mixed with a multitude of different electrical connectors and/or with a multitude of different port connections to from a wide array of pressure sensor assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2011Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Ryan Jones, Todd Eckhardt, Jim Machir, Richard Wade
-
Publication number: 20140034747Abstract: A method is disclosed for detecting a nozzle chamber pressure in an injector that includes a closure element for opening and closing an injection opening, at least one actuator which directly actuates the closure element, and at least one sensor for measuring a state, which is dependent on the nozzle chamber pressure, of the closure element, wherein at least one measurement variable which is dependent on the state is detected by means of the sensor, and wherein a deviation of the measurement value from a predefined value is determined. An injection system for carrying out such method is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2012Publication date: February 6, 2014Inventors: Hans-Jörg Wiehoff, Steffen Lehner, Vera Balk
-
Publication number: 20140020471Abstract: The present invention, in one embodiment, provides a method of measuring pressure or temperature using a sensor including a sensor element composed of a plurality of carbon nanotubes. In one example, the resistance of the plurality of carbon nanotubes is measured in response to the application of temperature or pressure. The changes in resistance are then recorded and correlated to temperature or pressure. In one embodiment, the present invention provides for independent measurement of pressure or temperature using the sensors disclosed herein.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2013Publication date: January 23, 2014Applicant: UT-BATTELLE LLCInventors: Ilia N. Ivanov, David B. Geohegan
-
Publication number: 20140020474Abstract: The present invention, in one embodiment, provides a method of measuring pressure or temperature using a sensor including a sensor element composed of a plurality of carbon nanotubes. In one example, the resistance of the plurality of carbon nanotubes is measured in response to the application of temperature or pressure. The changes in resistance are then recorded and correlated to temperature or pressure. In one embodiment, the present invention provides for independent measurement of pressure or temperature using the sensors disclosed herein.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2013Publication date: January 23, 2014Applicant: UT-BATTELLE LLCInventors: Ilia N. Ivanov, David B. Geohegan
-
Publication number: 20140024956Abstract: A transducer interface system/method allowing conversion from an analog sensor input to a standardized analog output interface is disclosed. In some preferred embodiments the system/method permits a fiber optic pressure sensor to be interfaced to a standard patient care monitor (PCM) system using standardized Wheatstone Bridge analog interface inputs. Within this context the Wheatstone Bridge sensed output is defined by stimulus from the PCM and modulation of bridge element values by the conditioned output of an analog pressure sensor. The use of analog-to-digital-to-analog conversion in this transducer interface permits retrofitting of PCM devices having analog Wheatstone Bridge inputs with advanced patient monitoring sensors without the need for specialized modifications to the baseline PCM data collection framework. Methods disclosed herein include techniques to connect arbitrary types/numbers of analog sensors to traditional PCM systems without the need for PCM system hardware/software modifications.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2013Publication date: January 23, 2014Inventors: Phillip Douglas Purdy, Ronald Bruce Jennings
-
Publication number: 20130317288Abstract: The present invention is related to a biocompatible and biostable implantable medical device. The present invention can include an implantable medical device including an electro-mechanical component. The electro-mechanical component can be coated with various novel and nonobvious coating combinations designed to promote biocompatibility and biostability.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2013Publication date: November 28, 2013Applicant: Allergan, Inc.Inventor: Babak Honaryar
-
Patent number: 8578783Abstract: A process fluid pressure transmitter has a remote pressure sensor. The transmitter includes an electronics housing and a loop communicator disposed in the electronics housing and being configured to communicate in accordance with a process communication protocol. A controller is disposed within the electronics housing and is coupled to the loop communicator. Sensor measurement circuitry is disposed within the electronics housing and is coupled to the controller. A remote pressure sensor housing is configured to couple directly to a process and is spaced from the electronics housing. A pressure sensor is disposed within the remote pressure sensor housing. The pressure sensor forms at least one electrical component having an electrical characteristic that varies with process fluid pressure. Portions of the electrical component are coupled directly to a multiconductor cable that operably connects the pressure sensor to the sensor measurement circuitry.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2011Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Rosemount Inc.Inventors: Robert C. Hedtke, John Schulte, David A. Broden
-
Publication number: 20130255391Abstract: A sensor unit has at least one measuring cell and a circuit mount arranged in a protective sleeve. The measuring cell detects a pressure of a hydraulic block. The circuit mount has a printed circuit board, which is positioned perpendicularly relative to the measuring cell. The printed circuit board has an electronic circuit with at least one electronic and/or electrical component. The measuring cell has at least one connection point configured to tap off at least one electrical output signal from the measuring cell. The circuit mount forms an internal interface which taps off the at least one electrical output signal from the measuring cell and applies it to the electronic circuit. An output signal from the electronic circuit can be tapped off by an external interface. The internal interface is formed at a first end and the external interface is formed at a second end of the protective sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2013Publication date: October 3, 2013Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Michael Schlitzkus, Stefan Lehenberger, Robert Hengler, Dmitriy Aranovich, Philip Martin Lenk, Peter Diesel, Christian Pfleger
-
Publication number: 20130248024Abstract: A sensor including a buffer material layer configured to at least partially deflect when a force or pressure is imparted on the buffer material layer; and an electroactive polymer (EAP) cartridge in operative contact with the buffer material layer, wherein the EAP cartridge is configured to generate an output signal that corresponds to an amount of strain imparted on the EAP cartridge. The EAP cartridge may be used in a variety of sensing applications including as a pressure sensor integrated into a fluid connector. One aspect of the invention provides for selection of a buffer material layer based upon a desired pressure range.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 26, 2012Publication date: September 26, 2013Applicant: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventors: Jason T. Dunn, Shawn D. Ellis, Roger W. Briese, Tad N. Orstad, Todd D. Lambert, John E. Page, Mario A. Calvo, Timothy Skwiot
-
Publication number: 20130247678Abstract: Systems and methods in accordance with embodiments of the invention implement multi-directional environmental sensors. In one embodiment, a multi-directional environmental sensor includes: an inner conductive element that is substantially symmetrical about three orthogonal planes; an outer conductive element that is substantially symmetrical about three orthogonal planes; and a device that measures the electrical characteristics of the multi-directional environmental sensor, the device having a first terminal and a second terminal; where the inner conductive element is substantially enclosed within the outer conductive element; where the inner conductive element is electrically coupled to the first terminal of the device; and where the outer conductive element is electrically coupled to the second terminal of the device.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: September 26, 2013Applicant: California Institute of TechnologyInventors: Harish Manohara, Linda Y. Del Castillo, Mohammed M. Mojarradi
-
Patent number: 8534130Abstract: The present disclosure relates to sensors including pressure sensors, humidity sensors, flow sensors, etc. In some illustrative cases, a sensor assembly may include a pressure port connected to a sensor unit, an electrical connector connected to the sensor unit and an outer housing encompassing at least portions of the pressure port, sensor unit and electrical connector. In one example, the sensor unit may include a carrier carrying a sense element, where the carrier may extend into a recess of the pressure port and may be secured to the pressure port at an internal side thereof through the use of an adhesive layer.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2011Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Todd Eckhardt, Alistair David Bradley, Sunil Job, Palani Thanigachalam, Jim Machir
-
Patent number: 8528413Abstract: A peripheral pressure sensor for a motor vehicle has a sensor chip and a gasket sealing a sensing unit of the sensor chip from the surroundings, which gasket has a pressure channel through which pressure information is transmitted to the sensing unit of the sensor chip. The peripheral pressure sensor is made by an injection molding method in which an opening in the gasket is placed on the sensing unit of the sensor chip, and subsequently an assembly of the sensor chip and the gasket is surrounded by extrusion coating such that an outer edge opposite the sensing unit and/or an outer opening in the gasket remains at least partially free.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2011Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Roland Seitz, Peter Kunert, Gustav Klett, Matthias Ludwig
-
Publication number: 20130228018Abstract: The invention concerns a device for measuring the pressure of a fluid carried in a conduit. The device comprises a first electrode, a second electrode, a nanoassembly of conductive or semi-conductive nanoparticles in contact with the two electrodes, and a measurement device. The measurement device provides proportional information with respect to an electrical property of the nanoassembly. The electrical property is measured between the first and second electrode, and the electrical property is sensitive to the distance between the nanoparticles of the nanoassembly. The nanoassembly is mechanically linked to a flexible substrate having a mechanical linkage with the fluid carried in the conduit such that the distances between the nanoparticles of the nanoassembly are modified by a pressure variation in the fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2011Publication date: September 5, 2013Applicant: NANOMADE CONCEPTInventors: Eric Mouchel La Fosse, Lionel Songeon
-
Patent number: 8522620Abstract: A pressure sensor in contact with an aggressive fluid for a pressure measurement has a board with a pressure passage. The pressure passage is closed on one side by a sensor chip as a pressure sensing element. The board also mounts an integrated circuit and electrical contacts for electrical contacting of the pressure sensor. At least the on board arranged pressure sensing element as well as the integrated circuit are tightly enclosed by a capper made of a fluid resistant material in connection with the board, and are arranged in an encasing cavity formed by the capper and the board for fluid resistant protection.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Silicon Micro Sensors GmbHInventors: Jens Koehler, Lars Petersen, Sebastian Hagedorn
-
Publication number: 20130220022Abstract: A protective casing for a household appliance includes an encapsulation and a support fitted therein. The support has an upper recess for the sensor, also housing a cushion with a central hole, and an electrical connector; and the encapsulation with a horizontal structural portion, from which a mechanical engagement, a bed and a connection project. The bed is generally cylindrical, with a flat top with a central hole and an octagonal side surface with alternate round and flat walls, the internal surface delimited by the walls has a similar and/or cooperative geometry with the side surface of the support. Particularly, a bottom surface, the cushion and top of the bed define an open chamber, housing the sensor. The chamber being in fluid communication with the source of the pressure to be measured through the lumen of the connector and the central hole as included on the top of the bed.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2013Publication date: August 29, 2013Applicant: Emicol Eletro Eletronica S.A.Inventor: Emicol Eletro Eletrônica S.A.
-
Patent number: 8499627Abstract: A pressure-receiving cylinder (11) is in a columnar shape extending in the direction of a center axis (O), and having an orthogonal cross section to the center axis (O) that defines a rotationally symmetrical contour. In a piezoelectric ceramic structure (12), piezoelectric ceramic modules are arranged in a rotationally symmetrical manner around the center axis (O), each piezoelectric ceramic module including a pair of piezoelectric ceramic and electrodes connected thereto in the polarization direction. Containers (8, 10) are connected to respective ends of the piezoelectric ceramic module (15) in the polarization direction, and apply a stress corresponding to an external force received by the pressure-receiving cylinder (11) to the pressure-receiving cylinder (11) and the piezoelectric ceramic structure (12). Respective voltages output by the plurality of piezoelectric ceramic modules are added together.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2009Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: NEC CorporationInventor: Yoshinori Hama
-
Patent number: 8499640Abstract: A measuring apparatus for outputting a measurement signal representing the difference between a first pressure and a second pressure. The apparatus includes a first pressure measuring transducer module for outputting a sequence of first signals representing the first pressure; a second pressure measuring transducer module for producing a sequence of second signals representing the second pressure; an evaluation module for ascertaining a sequence of difference values between the two pressure values and for outputting a sequence of fourth signals, which, in each case, represent the pressure difference; a first cable connection between the first and second pressure measuring transducer module; and a second cable connection between the second pressure measuring transducer module and the evaluation module. The modules are separated spatially from one another.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2009Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KGInventors: Marc Schlachter, Andreas Spitz, Roland Dieterle
-
Patent number: 8499639Abstract: In one embodiment, a pressure sensor assembly for use with an application specific integrated circuit includes a capacitive sensor, a sensor coil within a first sensor compartment and operatively connected to the capacitive sensor to form a sensor L-C tank circuit, a measuring oscillator including a measuring coil located within a second sensor compartment and spaced apart from the sensor coil and a feedback circuit configured to provide a control signal for the measuring oscillator based upon an output of the measuring oscillator, and a low frequency signal source configured to provide a low frequency signal to the measuring oscillator.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Marko Rocznik