Volume Or Rate Of Flow Patents (Class 73/861)
  • Patent number: 12109378
    Abstract: A dependent closed pressure vessel is fluidly coupled to an independent closed pressure vessel. A pressure sensor monitors pressure in the vessels to generate raw pressure measurement data. A flow meter monitors multidirectional rate of flow of fluid between the vessels and the volume of fluid flowing from the independent closed pressure vessel to generate raw rate of flow and raw volume measurement data. A pressure/flow regulator valve adjusts pressure in the dependent closed pressure vessel in response to a pressure set point signal generated in response to the raw pressure data, adjusts the rate of flow of fluid between the vessels in response to a rate of flow set point signal generated in response to the raw rate of flow data, and adjusts the rate of flow of fluid between the vessels in response to a volume set point signal generated in response to the raw volume data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2024
    Assignee: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
    Inventors: Rodney C. Daniels, Ashwin Belle
  • Patent number: 12066205
    Abstract: Systems/methods for measuring airstream parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2024
    Assignee: EBTRON Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Urbaniak, David S. Dougan, Darryl W. DeAngelis
  • Patent number: 11959931
    Abstract: A system and method for dispense characterization is disclosed. According to particular embodiments of the dispense characterization system and method, volumes of dispensed liquids can be determined. In more particular embodiments, additional characteristics and combinations of characteristics of a liquid dispensing event can be determined. Examples of additional characteristics that can be determined include the shape of the dispensing event, the velocity of the dispensing event, and the trajectory of the dispensing event. The dispense characterization system and method can be employed in automated biological sample analysis systems, and are particularly suited for monitoring liquid reagent dispensing events that deliver liquid reagents to a surface of a microscope slide holding a biological sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron Ewoniuk, Dylan Miller, Kevin Talucci
  • Patent number: 11892332
    Abstract: The disclosed apparatus, systems and methods relate to a flow meter for flowable material configured to be used in non-vertical orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: M&S Flowmatics Incorporated
    Inventors: Manjit Misra, Yuh-Yuan Shyy
  • Patent number: 11885658
    Abstract: A method of converting a directly measured mass flow rate to account for buoyancy is provided. The method includes directly measuring a mass flow rate of a material, measuring a density of the material, and using the measured density of the material to convert the directly measured mass flow rate into a mass value including a buoyancy of a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: MICRO MOTION, INC.
    Inventor: Marc Allan Buttler
  • Patent number: 11888711
    Abstract: The application is at least directed to a core network including a non-transitory memory having instructions stored thereon for registering a network function or network function template in the core network. The network includes a processor, operably coupled to the non-transitory memory. The processor is configured to perform the instruction of determining that registration of the network function or network function template is acceptable. The processor is also configured to perform the instruction of transmitting a message including the network function or network function template to a repository in the core network. The processor is also configured to perform the instruction of verifying the network function or network function template against existing policies in the core network. The processor is also configured to perform the instruction of registering the network function or network function template in the repository after verification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: InterDigital Patent Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Catalina Mihaela Mladin, Michael F. Starsinic, Hongkun Li, Rocco Di Girolamo
  • Patent number: 11788947
    Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling volumes of droplets is provided herein. In some cases, the systems comprise: a plurality of first light sources, a second light source, wherein a first light beam emitted a first light source of said plurality of first light sources is configured to intersect with a second light beam emitted from said second light source at an intersection area, wherein said system is configured to measure a characteristic of said droplet as it passes through said intersection area. Systems and methods for measuring volumes of droplets and for distinguishing between bubbles and droplets are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: INTEGRATED DNA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Keith Miller Anderson, Guillermo Alfredo Cornejo
  • Patent number: 11703365
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to apparatus and methods for automatic fluid flow system connectors. The system generally includes a load cell interface coupled to a console and a ring connector coupled to a fluid collection system. The ring connector can be releasably engaged with the load cell using a push-button actuated locking mechanism. Embodiments of the locking mechanism can include a latch and aperture engagement, a shelf and ledge engagement, or a track and channel engagement, or combinations thereof. The ring connector and load cell can include electrical contacts configured to engage along an axis that extends perpendicular to a surface on which the electrical contacts are disposed. This is believed to reduce wear on the electrical contacts, thereby extending the usable life of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: C. R. Bard, Inc.
    Inventors: Michal Tourchak, Jason Jishen Cheng, Rohit Sinha
  • Patent number: 11365993
    Abstract: A venturi flowmeter includes a ring of which the inside is hollow and which prevents inner wall abrasion or fatigue load accumulation at a main orifice and thus can reduce maintenance costs. The venturi flowmeter includes a main orifice of which the inside is hollow and an element of which one side has a hollow inside having the same diameter as that of a through-hole of the main orifice, and which has a tapered shape toward the other side thereof. A diffuser has one side having a hollow inside of the same diameter as that of the through-hole of the main orifice, and which has a tapered shape toward the other side thereof. A ring is connected between the main orifice and one side of the element. The ring includes a stopper formed along an inner wall and having a hollow central portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Assignee: DAE HAN INSTRUMENT CO., LTD
    Inventor: Jung Seung Yang
  • Patent number: 11259466
    Abstract: An agricultural harvester includes a chassis, a cleaning system carried by the chassis, and a crop material elevator for receiving crop material that has passed through the cleaning system. The crop material elevator has a top-most end, a bottom-most end, a first inlet between the top-most end and the bottom-most end, and a second inlet between the top-most end and the first inlet. The agricultural harvester also includes an auger system for supplying crop material from the cleaning system to the crop material elevator. The auger system includes a first auger defining an auger axis for supplying crop material to the first inlet, a second auger defining a second auger axis, and a crop material conveyor for supplying crop material from the second auger to the second inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Herbert M. Farley, Cale N. Boriack, William M. McCully, Denver R. Yoder, Pieter Vandevelde, Clayton E. Banks, Eric E. Veikle
  • Patent number: 11252857
    Abstract: In one aspect, a crop input applicator is provided. In one aspect, the applicator comprises a valve (e.g., voice coil valve) disposed to deposit liquid on or near a seed furrow and/or on or near a seed. In one aspect, the applicator includes one or more seed sensors disposed to detect passage of seeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignee: 360 YIELD CENTER, LLC
    Inventors: Tyler Ritland, Connor Hesterberg, Timothy Sauder, Brandon Tate, Jonathan T. Welte, Justin Koch, Phillip Baurer
  • Patent number: 11255956
    Abstract: Method for measuring the flow velocity of a medium in an open channel with a radar meter, wherein a primary emission direction of the radar meter forms with a direction of a surface of the medium a first angle from 20° to 80° and with a flow direction of the medium a second angle between 0° and 80°, comprising the following steps: Sending a transmission signal with a plurality of frequency ramps, Receiving a reception signal per frequency ramp of the transmission signal, Saving the reception signals, Performing a first spectral analysis of the reception signals, Performing a second spectral analysis of several receiving signals or output signals of the first spectral analysis, Determining a flow velocity based on the phase change yielded from the output signals of the second spectral analysis in at least one distance in the distance range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignee: VEGA GRIESHABER KG
    Inventors: Bernhard Corbe, Roland Welle, Steffen Waelde
  • Patent number: 11129956
    Abstract: A humidification system for delivering humidified gases to a user can include a heater base, humidification chamber having an inlet, outlet, and associated fluid conduit, and breathing circuit including a supply conduit, inspiratory conduit, and optional expiratory conduit. The humidification system can include various features to help make set-up less difficult and time-consuming. For example, the supply conduit, inspiratory conduit, and optional expiratory conduit can be coupled into a one-piece circuit to aid set-up. Various components can be color-coded and can have corresponding structures to indicate which components should be connected to one another during set-up. Such features can also help make the set-up process more intuitive for an operator, which can reduce the need for specialized training and reduce the number of potential errors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited
    Inventors: Jason Allan Klenner, Andrew Paul Maxwell Salmon, Mark Samuel Hamilton, James William Stanton, Michael John Andresen, Jonathan Andrew George Lambert
  • Patent number: 11092583
    Abstract: A system for stabilizing sensor readings. The system includes a processor; a memory communicatively coupled to the processor; a receiver to receive from a sensing device, a measurement and an environmental parameter. The system also includes a machine learning engine executed on the processor wherein the machine learning engine receives, as inputs: the environmental parameters; the measurement; and control parameters calculated based on control measurements made at time points before and after the measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: AROMATIX, INC.
    Inventor: Chowdhury F. Rahim
  • Patent number: 11073529
    Abstract: A system and method for dispense characterization is disclosed. According to particular embodiments of the dispense characterization system and method, volumes of dispensed liquids can be determined. In more particular embodiments, additional characteristics and combinations of characteristics of a liquid dispensing event can be determined. Examples of additional characteristics that can be determined include the shape of the dispensing event, the velocity of the dispensing event, and the trajectory of the dispensing event. The dispense characterization system and method can be employed in automated biological sample analysis systems, and are particularly suited for monitoring liquid reagent dispensing events that deliver liquid reagents to a surface of a microscope slide holding a biological sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2021
    Assignee: Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron Ewoniuk, Dylan Miller, Kevin Talucci
  • Patent number: 11009473
    Abstract: A method for determining a physical and/or chemical, temperature dependent, process variable of process automation technology utilizing a resistance thermometer (RPt1000), wherein the resistance thermometer (RPt1000) is installed in an electrical circuit, comprising the steps of: measuring a first voltage (U1) across at least a first precision resistor (R1); measuring a second voltage (U2) across at least a second precision resistor (R2); measuring a third voltage (U3) across at least a third precision resistor (R3), wherein cyclically or continuously a constant electrical current (I) is sent through the at least first precision resistor (R1), the at least second precision resistor (R2) or the at least third precision resistor (R3); determining temperature coefficients (a, b, c) characteristic for the electrical circuit by means of the first voltage (U1), the second voltage (U2) and the third voltage (U3); sending the constant electrical current (I) through the resistance thermometer (RPt1000) and measuring a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: Endress+Hauser Conducta GmbH+Co. KG
    Inventors: Stefan Paul, Stephan Buschnakowski
  • Patent number: 11002577
    Abstract: A fiber optic flow sensor includes a fiber optic cable, a light emitter, an optical power meter, and a processing circuit. The fiber optic cable allows light to enter a first end of the fiber optic cable, reflect off a second end of the fiber optic cable and exit the fiber optic cable through the first end. The fiber optic cable is at least partially exposed to fluid flow at the second end. The light emitter emits light at an input power into the first end of the fiber optic cable. The optical power meter measures an output power of the light exiting the fiber optic cable at the first end. The processing circuit calculates a flow rate of the flow of fluid based on the input power of light entering the fiber optic cable and the output power of light exiting the first end of the fiber optic cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventor: Andrew J. Przybylski
  • Patent number: 10960237
    Abstract: A powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR). The PAPR comprises an air pump comprising an electric motor, an eccentric venturi communicatively coupled to an air channel of the air pump, wherein the eccentric venturi comprises a first sensor port and a second sensor port, a differential air pressure sensor mechanically coupled to the first sensor port and the second sensor port, and a controller that is communicatively coupled to an electrical output of the differential air pressure sensor and to the electric motor, wherein the controller is configured to control the speed of the electric motor to maintain a predefined rate of flow of purified air based on the electrical output of the differential air pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Julius Jancarik, Garaga Phani Kumar, Anjaiah Tumu, Jonathan Sugerman
  • Patent number: 10962393
    Abstract: An ultrasonic transceiver array provides for measurement and determination of flow rate of oil, water and gas in a multiphase flow in a pipe or conduit. The transceiver array is mounted externally and non-invasively in an elliptical arrangement on the pipe surface, resulting in an ellipsoid section of the flow cross-sectional area to be interrogated. The single ultrasonic transceiver array forms a tomographic image of multiphase flow to determine volume fraction of each phase; measure the total flow velocity to determine flow rate of individual phases and thus provide a three phase measurement capability. Both phase fractions and flow velocities can be determined at the same time, eliminating the need for two different systems to achieve that purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Talha Jamal Ahmad, Mohamed Nabil Noui-Mehidi
  • Patent number: 10945368
    Abstract: A combine harvester includes: a grain conveyance mechanism for conveying grains from a threshing apparatus to a grain tank; a grain discharge apparatus provided in an end area of the grain conveyance mechanism, the grain discharge apparatus having a discharge case provided with a grain discharge opening, and a discharge rotor rotatably arranged in the discharge case; a pressed portion that is subjected to a pressing force applied by grains immediately before the grains are discharged by the discharge rotor; a load detector for detecting the pressing force exerted on the pressed portion; and a yield evaluator for evaluating the amount of conveyed grain based on a detection signal from the load detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: Kubota Corporation
    Inventors: Mao Ueda, Kazuhiro Takahara, Yoshimasa Ando
  • Patent number: 10928504
    Abstract: A sensor assembly includes a sensor in the form of a microwave radar device to dispense microwaves in an area where seed or other particulate material is to be sensed. This may be a seed tube of a row unit. The microwaves of the radar provide an accurate determination if a seed or other particulate material has passed through the field of vision of the sensor to provide an accurate sensing of a seed event. This information can be used to determine the rate of planting, skips, doubles, as well as any other information related to the passing of a seed or other particulate material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: Kinze Manufactoring, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan Taylor, Dustan Hahn, Scott Porter
  • Patent number: 10918893
    Abstract: A powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR). The PAPR comprises an air pump comprising an electric motor, an eccentric venturi communicatively coupled to an air channel of the air pump, wherein the eccentric venturi comprises a first sensor port and a second sensor port, a differential air pressure sensor mechanically coupled to the first sensor port and the second sensor port, and a controller that is communicatively coupled to an electrical output of the differential air pressure sensor and to the electric motor, wherein the controller is configured to control the speed of the electric motor to maintain a predefined rate of flow of purified air based on the electrical output of the differential air pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Julius Jancarik, Garaga Phani Kumar, Anjaiah Tumu, Jonathan Sugerman
  • Patent number: 10914055
    Abstract: A system for observing flow may comprise a device for observing flow in a pipe comprising a sound detector, a housing affixing the sound detector external to a pipe, a microprocessor, a power supply, and a device interface. The system may further comprise a data transmitter, a remote server for receiving data from one or more devices for observing flow in a pipe, a plurality of server-side applications applying analytical operations to the data, and a plurality of end-user devices for accessing the data through a plurality of user interfaces. The flow observation system can be used to detect leaks, identify water conservation opportunities, alert end-users of overconsumption, and remotely shut-off the water supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: CONSERVATION LABS, INC.
    Inventor: Mark Kovscek
  • Patent number: 10845223
    Abstract: A utility flow meter and a method for measuring a flow of a liquid through a flow conduit having a liquid sensing arrangement, a display device, and a display mode controller for controlling the display mode. The display mode controller is configured to control the display mode based on a first display mode when the liquid presence criterion is fulfilled and a second display mode when the liquid presence criterion is not fulfilled. The first display mode consists of at least one flow representation, and the second display mode consists of at least one further representation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: Apator Miitors ApS
    Inventor: Jens Drachmann
  • Patent number: 10779387
    Abstract: A method of operating an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography system includes directing a metallic droplet along a shroud, wherein the shroud has a first opening adjacent a droplet generator and a second opening adjacent an excitation region; partially shielding the second opening of the shroud; and emitting a laser beam encountering the metallic droplet to generate an EUV light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ming-Hsun Tsai, Han-Lung Chang, Yen-Hsun Chen, Shao-Hua Wang, Li-Jui Chen, Po-Chung Cheng
  • Patent number: 10690645
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device for measuring at least one physical, chemical or biological parameter of a fluid, flowing in a pipe belonging to a fluid-distribution network, the device being installed in a cut on the pipe at the fluid delivery point, the pipe thus including a first section and a second section, the device including at least one sensor provided with a measurement end. The device also includes: a body including an opening forming a flow line, and at least one insertion recess capable of receiving the measurement end of the at least one sensor, the insertion recess opening into the flow line; an attachment unit arranged to connect a first end of the flow line with an end of the first section and a second end of the flow line with an end of the second section, to allow the fluid to flow through the flow line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: SUEZ GROUPE
    Inventor: Francis Campan
  • Patent number: 10684154
    Abstract: A device which: optically detects the presence of, measures the flow rate of, and identifies the characteristics of venting fugitive gas emissions. Specifically the device provides a spectral analysis of emission gas constituents; selective detection of the presence of venting hydrocarbons; measurement of venting emissions flow rates, the measurement of shut-in and flowing venting system pressures and the venting system temperatures. The flow rates are corrected, relative to the detection of the gas constituents and standard temperature and pressure (STP). These devices are configured to collect such data electronically and transmit via various telemetry systems, to a secure remote data network for reporting, access, evaluation, real-time monitoring and archiving as required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: Ventbuster Holdings Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Wayne Layher, Deanne Rose Layher, Scott Robert Layher
  • Patent number: 10672549
    Abstract: A solenoid electrical diagnostic system includes a solenoid circuit operable in response to an electrical current. A low-side switch includes a low-side input configured to receive a pulsed voltage signal and a low-side output in signal communication with the solenoid circuit. The low-side switch continuously switches between an on-state and an off-state based on the pulsed voltage signal to adjust a level of the current flowing through the solenoid circuit. A solenoid monitoring unit generates a low-side output state signal based on an output voltage at the low-side output, and a low-side input state signal based on an input voltage at the low-side input. The solenoid electrical diagnostic system further includes an electronic hardware controller determines at least one operating condition of the solenoid circuit based on a comparison between the state signals and a threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: HAMILTON SUNSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael A. Wilson, Eduardo Ahuactzin Parra
  • Patent number: 10634138
    Abstract: A device for measuring flow processes of fluids includes an inlet, an outlet, a housing in which is arranged a drivable positive displacement flow meter which includes a positive displacement chamber in which a driven impeller is rotatably arranged, a first supply duct connecting the displacement chamber with the inlet, a first discharge duct connecting the displacement chamber with the outlet, a first inlet port, a second supply duct connected to the inlet, a displacement flow meter bypass with a differential pressure sensor, and an evaluation and control unit which controls the displacement flow meter based on a differential pressure applied to the pressure sensor. Cavitation wear of the positive displacement meter is reduced by the first supply duct opening into a front of the displacement chamber via the first inlet port, and the second supply duct opening into a rear of the displacement chamber via a second inlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Assignee: AVL LIST GMBH
    Inventors: Otfried Derschmidt, Heribert Kammerstetter
  • Patent number: 10620023
    Abstract: A method for determining a mass flow composed of bulk material, in particular grain, which is conveyed by means of a continuous, circulating conveyor, having planar conveyor elements, from a lower bulk material receiving area to a higher bulk material delivery area, in which the bulk material delivered by the conveyor is deflected by a guide surface disposed in the bulk material delivery area toward a measuring device, wherein the mass flow is determined by the measurement of a resulting force (F_G) exerted on a sensor surface of the measuring device, wherein at least two parameters having an effect on the force measurement, in particular parameters independent of bulk material properties, are compensated for. A control and regulating device for executing the method for determining a mass flow composed of bulk material is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: CLAAS Selbstfahrende Erntemaschinen GmbH
    Inventors: Jonas Brandmeier, Gunnar Quincke, Martin Kubbeler, Sebastian Neu, Markus Brune
  • Patent number: 10527474
    Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods are provided for monitoring yield while harvesting grain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: Precision Planting LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Strnad, Justin L. Koch
  • Patent number: 10515425
    Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for monitoring one or more agricultural implements during agricultural operations and for monitoring operator performance criterion. In some embodiment, the operator performance criterion may be reported to a monitor on the agricultural implement as well as a remote fleet monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Assignee: The Climate Corporation
    Inventors: Justin Koch, William Frank, Doug Sauder
  • Patent number: 10480968
    Abstract: A pump system has at least one fluid container (2) which comprises an inlet (4) and an outlet (6), at least one pump (8) arranged in the inlet (4) or the outlet (6), and a control device (16) which includes a flow evaluation device for determining a flow through the fluid container (2) of the pump system. The flow evaluation device is configured such that the flow evaluation device uses a system model for determining the flow. The system model includes at least two different sub-models, a sub-model which describes the inflow behavior of the fluid container (2) and a sub-model which describes the outflow behavior of the fluid container (2). A corresponding pump flow evaluation method is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: GRUNDFOS HOLDING A/S
    Inventor: Carsten Skovmose Kallesøe
  • Patent number: 10386864
    Abstract: Mass flow controllers and methods for controlling mass flow rates are disclosed. A mass flow controller includes a pressure value measurement means that measures one or two or more pressure values derived from pressure P1 of fluid on an upstream side of a pressure difference generate means and pressure P2 of the fluid on a downstream side of the pressure difference generate means, an acceleration means accelerates time variation of the obtained pressure values, a flow meter calculates a flow rate of the fluid based on a pressure value obtained according to the accelerated time variation (accelerated pressure value), and a flow control valve controls the flow rate of the fluid based on the calculated flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: HITACHI METALS, LTD.
    Inventor: Yuji Kishine
  • Patent number: 10373353
    Abstract: Yield monitors on harvesters engaged in multi-harvester crop harvesting are often calibrated inconsistently. Systems and methods for manually or automatically adjusting multi-harvester yield data are presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: Trimble Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Chiocco, Eric A. Wuestefeld
  • Patent number: 10365143
    Abstract: A measurement ring for a pipeline includes a body having a central hole extending along a longitudinal axis of the body and at least one tap for measuring fluid flow parameters in the pipeline. The at least one tap includes a threaded portion on a circumferential surface of the body extending through the body towards the central hole, and a first channel extending from the threaded portion to the central hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2019
    Assignee: Canada Pipeline Accessories, Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Blaine Sawchuk, Reginald Selirio, Raphael Selirio, Daniel Sawchuk
  • Patent number: 10302576
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring flowable substance which has at least three microwave sensor elements arranged at separate locations in a measurement chamber in contact with the flowable substance. The sensor elements operate as at least two transmitter-receiver pairs, which transmit and receive microwave radiation via at last two paths of different lengths, through layers of dirt on the sensor elements and the flowable substance for eliminating an effect of dirt layers on the sensor elements from the measurement result. A signal processing unit has a controller which is configured to control feed of at least one substance which has an effect on the measured value of the flowable substance to the chamber on the basis of the measured value of the desired property of the flowable substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: SENFIT OY
    Inventor: Pekka Jakkula
  • Patent number: 10266265
    Abstract: Systems and methods can determine a liquid flow in a spraying system. An amount of liquid that is output from the spraying system during a pump cycle is determined. A number of pump cycles that occur within a given amount of time are measured. The number of pump cycles are measured using an electronic speed controller (ESC). Additionally, the ESC indicates the number of pump cycles within a given amount of time within a threshold of precision. The amount of liquid flow in the spraying system is calculated based on the measured number of pump cycles and the determined amount of liquid that is output from the spraying system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Assignee: SZ DJI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Xumin Wu, Zhuang Feng, Jiyuan Ao
  • Patent number: 10248137
    Abstract: A control operation of correcting, based on a difference between a target value and a measured value of a controlled response time, a standby time from change in a set value of a flow rate to a value that is not zero until start of output of an opening signal is repeated. As a result, a response time for the flow rate to reach the set value of the flow rate after the set value changes can be a desired value independently of a type, the set flow rate, the temperature, and the pressure of fluid, individual differences among devices, and the like. The difference between the target value and the measured value of the controlled response time may be multiplied by a weight coefficient, and the control operation may be carried out for each of a predetermined plurality of ranges of the flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignee: HITACHI METALS, LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Ito, Koji Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 10220946
    Abstract: Systems and methods can determine a liquid flow in a spraying system. An amount of liquid that is output from the spraying system during a pump cycle is determined. A number of pump cycles that occur within a given amount of time are measured. The number of pump cycles are measured using an electronic speed controller (ESC). Additionally, the ESC indicates the number of pump cycles within a given amount of time within a threshold of precision. The amount of liquid flow in the spraying system is calculated based on the measured number of pump cycles and the determined amount of liquid that is output from the spraying system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: SZ DJI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Xumin Wu, Zhuang Feng, Jiyuan Ao
  • Patent number: 9989395
    Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods are provided for monitoring yield while harvesting grain. Grain released from paddles on the clean grain elevator chain of a harvester contacts a flow sensor which reports the rate of grain flow through the clean grain elevator. In some embodiments a brush is mounted to the chain and disposed to clean the flow sensor surface. In other embodiments a bucket mounted to the clean grain elevator chain releases grain against the flow sensor at a rate dependent on a grain property.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: Precision Planting LLC
    Inventors: Justin Koch, Michael Strnad
  • Patent number: 9963956
    Abstract: A technique facilitates evaluation of a fluid, such as a fluid produced from a well. The technique utilizes a modular and mobile system for testing flows of fluid which may comprise mixtures of constituents. A modular flow meter system comprises a plurality of modules which each have a multiphase flow meter coupled into a flow circuit. The flow circuits of the plurality of modules are selectively connectable to each other via flow connectors. Additionally, portions of the flow circuits may be selectively opened and closed to enable controlled routing of the fluid being tested through the desired multiphase flow meter or meters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Alexander Tuborg Vilstrup, Muhammad Fuad Bin Mohamed Zain, Guillaume Jolivet, Jean-Philippe Hussenet
  • Patent number: 9869624
    Abstract: An apparatus (and method) for characterizing interfacial tension between a non-wetting phase fluid and a wetting phase fluid of a slug flow employs a capillary structure that is configured to contain a slug of the non-wetting phase fluid of the slug flow. The slug has a leading edge meniscus and a trailing edge meniscus, and the capillary structure has a venturi-like section. A pressure sensor is configured to measure differential pressure between first and second locations of the capillary structure. The first location is disposed upstream of the leading edge meniscus of the slug with the leading edge meniscus of the slug contained within the venturi-like section. The second location is disposed downstream of the trailing edge meniscus of the slug. Data processing means is configured to derive a measure of interfacial tension based upon the differential pressure measured by the pressure sensor and, optionally, geometry of the capillary structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Geza Horvath Szabo, John Ratulowski, Dmitry Eskin
  • Patent number: 9835487
    Abstract: A method is provided to operate a thermal anemometer flow meter to measure a property of a stream. The method includes measuring a first heat loss to the stream from operating at a first DeltaT above a temperature of the stream, measuring a second heat loss to the stream from operating at a second DeltaT above the temperature of the stream where the second DeltaT being greater than the first DeltaT. The method further includes determining the property of the stream based on the first and the second heat losses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: LOS ROBLES ADVERTISING, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel R. Kurz, Bruce B. Burton, Ralph A. Dalla Betta
  • Patent number: 9746362
    Abstract: The present invention provides a thermal flow meter 300 which reduces a stress applied from a fixing portion 3721, which is used to hold and fix a circuit package 400 with respect to a housing 302, to the circuit package 400 and has high reliability. In the thermal flow meter of the invention, the circuit package 400 embedded with a flow rate measurement circuit is formed through a first resin molding process, the fixing portion 3721 is formed along with the housing 302 through a second resin molding process, and the circuit package 400 is enveloped by the fixing portion 3721, whereby the circuit package 400 is held by and fixed to the housing 302. In order to reduce the influence of a stress, generated based on a temperature change of the fixing portion 3721, on the circuit package 400, the fixing portion 3721 is constituted of a thick portion 4714 and a thin portion 4710.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinobu Tashiro, Keiji Hanzawa, Noboru Tokuyasu, Takeshi Morino, Ryosuke Doi, Akira Uenodan
  • Patent number: 9663857
    Abstract: A method stabilizes pressure of a reaction chamber during a process using a first gas and a second gas, wherein a gas inlet line is connected to the reaction chamber, and a second gas line and a first gas line are connected to another end of the gas inlet line. The method includes: feeding a first gas in pulses according to a waveform to the reaction chamber through the first gas line and the gas inlet line; and feeding a second gas in pulses according to a reverse waveform to the reaction chamber through the second gas line and the gas inlet line, wherein superimposed waveforms of the waveform and reverse waveform are made substantially or nearly flat, thereby stabilizing pressure of the reaction chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: ASM IP Holding B.V.
    Inventors: Ryu Nakano, Wataru Adachi
  • Patent number: 9523703
    Abstract: A velocity mapping system comprising a sensor system and an airflow mapper. The sensor system is configured to generate data about a velocity of airflow for a location in a duct system. The airflow mapper is configured to receive the data from the sensor system and generate a profile of the velocity of the airflow at the location in the duct system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2016
    Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Jason Andrew Koehn, James K. Whitley, Shawn Paul Snell
  • Patent number: 9470564
    Abstract: A magnetic-inductive flow meter with at least one measuring tube for through flow of an electrically conductive medium, with a magnetic field generating apparatus for generating an alternating magnetic field which runs at least also perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the measuring tube, with at least two measuring electrodes which especially contact the medium and with an evaluation circuit, the magnetic field generating apparatus having at least one field coil and one coil power supply. Because the measuring electrode circuit, therefore the electrical circuit to which the measuring electrodes belong is monitored by a crosstalk voltage indicator of the evaluation circuit which is active in an operating state when an electrically conductive medium is not flowing through the measuring tube, whether the measuring electrode circuit is serviceable can be derived from the crosstalk voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Assignee: KROHNE Messtechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Wilhelm Florin
  • Patent number: 9410840
    Abstract: A dynamic yield monitor system includes a plurality of instruments to measure harvested crop characteristics while a crop is in-flow within a harvester elevator. The system includes a volume instrument that measures a harvested crop volume from the in-flow harvested crop within the harvester elevator, and a weight instrument that measures a harvested crop weight from the in-flow harvested crop within the harvester elevator. Optionally, the system includes other instruments including a moisture and temperature instrument. A receiver and processing node communicates with the instrument. The receiver and processing determines variable harvested crop test weight based on at least the measured harvested crop volume and measured harvested crop weight of the in-flow crop. The receiver and processing node further determines a variable yield of the harvested crop based on the measured harvested crop volume, the measured harvested crop weight, and the variable harvested crop test weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: Raven Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John Earl Acheson, Stephen Filip Fjelstad, Douglas Samuel Prairie
  • Publication number: 20150143917
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of detecting a buildup of silt in a pipe or open channel of a fluid flow network. The pipe or open channel has a system with at least one set of velocity sensors to measure flow velocities at predetermined horizontal levels. The method includes the steps of computing flow using measured flow velocities and cross-sectional areas for each flow layer, summing the flows to provide a total flow, monitoring the measured flow velocities and storing the measured flow velocities to detect any ongoing reduction in flow velocity of at least a lowermost velocity sensor to provide an indication of a buildup of silt in the pipe or open channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: Rubicon Research Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Damien Vernon Pearson, Reese Joseph Tyrrell, Gordon John Bish