Pressure Applied To Movable Member (e.g., A Diaphragm) Patents (Class 73/861.47)
  • Patent number: 11953390
    Abstract: Exemplary backpressure monitoring apparatuses may include a fluid supply source having a fluid port. The backpressure monitoring apparatuses may include a flow control mechanism fluidly coupled with the fluid port. The backpressure monitoring apparatuses may include a delivery tube fluidly coupled with the flow control mechanism and the fluid port. The backpressure monitoring apparatuses may include a pressure differential gauge fluidly coupled with the delivery tube. The pressure differential gauge may include an interface mechanism that is engageable with an outlet of a fluid flow device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Sukti Chatterjee, David Masayuki Ishikawa, Yuriy V. Melnik, David A. Britz, Lance A. Scudder
  • Patent number: 11774272
    Abstract: A universal fitting for in-line fluid measurement in a process application. The fitting includes an inlet and outlet port and also has a body with a fluid flow passage providing fluid communication between the ports. A sensor housing is provided that extends outwardly away from a wall of the body, wherein the housing is sized to receive a sensor assembly, which assembly measures at least one characteristic of the fluid. A base of each housing integrally formed with the wall and including a sensor seat for receiving a portion of the sensor assembly. A probe aperture receives a probe portion of the sensor assembly, each housing having the probe aperture disposed in the wall and extending from the fluid passage through its respective sensor seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: PendoTECH
    Inventors: James F. Furey, Dustin James Rekow
  • Patent number: 11604171
    Abstract: A fluid sensor includes a housing structure forming a cavity for an IR emitter for emitting an IR radiation in the cavity, wherein the IR radiation has a center wavelength for providing an interaction of the IR radiation with the target fluid resulting in a temperature change in the cavity or in the housing structure, which effects a mechanical pulse in the housing structure, and an inertial detection sensor mechanically coupled to the housing structure for sensing the mechanical pulse in the housing structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: David Tumpold
  • Patent number: 11590336
    Abstract: Systems and methods for evaluating blood behavior when flowing through an implantable medical device are provided. A flow loop includes the implantable medical device, and a blood reservoir configured to contain a volume of blood and to supply blood from the volume of blood to the implantable medical device. The flow loop further includes a plurality of tubing sections coupled in flow communication between the implantable medical device and the blood reservoir, the plurality of tubing sections including a least a first tubing section having a first diameter and a second tubing section having a second diameter, wherein the second diameter is smaller than the first diameter, and a flow diverter coupled in flow communication between the plurality of tubing sections and the blood reservoir, the flow diverter comprising an outlet that is configured to be positioned below a surface of the volume of blood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: TC1 LLC
    Inventors: Dan Harjes, Balakrishnan Sivaraman
  • Patent number: 11583630
    Abstract: A method of calculating a volume of a drop pendant using a microprocessor. Included in the method are generating a gravity vector based on a direction of gravity with respect to the drop pendant; establishing a reference frame of the drop pendant for an image processing based on a reference point of the drop pendant and the gravity vector; generating a first reference line associated with the reference frame for representing an actual orientation of the drop pendant; generating a second reference line associated with the reference frame for representing a longitudinal axis of a chamber in which the drop pendant is located; comparing the first and second reference lines with respect to the gravity vector; and calculating the volume of the drop pendant based on the comparison of the first and second reference lines and the gravity vector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignees: BAXTER INTERNATIONAL INC., BAXTER HEALTHCARE S.A.
    Inventor: James F. Munro
  • Patent number: 11571502
    Abstract: A pressure measuring line with a connector can be used to connect the pressure measuring line to a blood treatment apparatus, and to a membrane. In some embodiments, the pressure measuring line comprises at least two consecutive lumen sections, namely the first lumen section and the second lumen section. The first lumen section can include a first lumen geometry and the second lumen section can include a second lumen geometry. The first lumen geometry and the second lumen geometry can differ from each other in at least their diameters. Further, a monitoring method and devices can be used in conjunction with the pressure measuring lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Juergen Klewinghaus, Alexander Schroers
  • Patent number: 11366053
    Abstract: A flow-through measuring station includes at least one flow cell having a fluid channel. The fluid channel has a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet and is configured to conduct a liquid medium. One or more flow cells each include at least one sensor configured to be contacted with the medium and to determine at least one respective media property. At least one illumination unit is configured to indicate a respective state of at least one sensor. The measuring station also includes a transmitter/measuring transducer which is configured to operate the at least one sensor and the at least one illumination unit, and to determine in each case a state of at least one sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Assignee: Endress+Hauser Conducta GmbH+Co. KG
    Inventors: Stephan Jugert, Thomas Pfauch, Holger Lippert, Hongshuo Domnick
  • Patent number: 11143535
    Abstract: Provided is a thermal-type flowmeter which can prevent a reduction of flow rate accuracy and reliability, and an increase of cost of the thermal-type flowmeter compared to the related art, and can add a function of an electrostatic scattering mechanism. The thermal-type flowmeter of the present invention includes a sub-passage into which part of a measurement target gas flowing in a main passage is taken, a flow rate detection element of a flow measurement unit which is disposed in the sub-passage, a circuit package which supports the flow rate detection element, and a substrate to which the circuit package is fixed. The flow rate detection element includes a detection surface to detect a flow rate of the measurement target gas. The detection surface is disposed to face the circuit substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Akira Uenodan, Takayuki Yogo, Tsubasa Watanabe, Takahiro Miki, Shinobu Tashiro, Hiroaki Hoshika
  • Patent number: 9527683
    Abstract: A method for controlling/regulating a fluid conveyer for conveying a fluid within a fluid line is provided. The method includes the steps, receiving information regarding a setpoint flow rate of the fluid within the fluid line, determining an energy consumption of the fluid conveyer during operation within a working range of the fluid conveyer, controlling the fluid conveyer, with regard to a generated flow of the fluid, on the basis of the information regarding the setpoint flow rate of the fluid within the fluid line in such a way that the setpoint flow rate of the fluid is stained and the energy consumption required for this is minimized, wherein it is taken into consideration that the working range of the fluid conveyer is bounded by a non-linear boundary. Also described is a corresponding device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: Konrad Drebinger
  • Patent number: 9488510
    Abstract: A flow sensor includes a fluid chamber configured to receive a fluid. A diaphragm assembly is configured to be displaced whenever the fluid within the fluid chamber is displaced. A transducer assembly is configured to monitor the displacement of the diaphragm assembly and generate a signal based, at least in part, upon the quantity of fluid displaced within the fluid chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Russell H. Beavis, Benjamin W. Jones, Jr., John M. Kerwin, Larry B. Gray, Casey P. Manning, Felix Winkler, Robert A. Charles
  • Patent number: 9188988
    Abstract: A flow sensor includes a fluid chamber configured to receive a fluid. A diaphragm assembly is configured to be displaced whenever the fluid within the fluid chamber is displaced. A transducer assembly is configured to monitor the displacement of the diaphragm assembly and generate a signal based, at least in part, upon the quantity of fluid displaced within the fluid chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Russell H. Beavis, Benjamin W. Jones, Jr., John M. Kerwin, Larry B. Gray, Casey P. Manning, Felix Winkler, Robert A. Charles
  • Publication number: 20150000423
    Abstract: One or more electroactive polymer (EAP) strips are circumferentially or lengthwise embedded or mounted around the fluid passage member. The EAP strips are configured to function as a pump when a prescribed electrical charge is applied and removed from the EAP strips, which causes the EAP strips to expand and constrict accordingly. A series of these strips may be mounted along a portion of the fluid passage member and electrically actuated in a prescribed manner to exert a squeezing force around the fluid passage member, which functions to pump fluid through the fluid passage member. The EAP strips also change electrical characteristics (e.g., capacitance, resistance) independent of the applied actuation as they are stretched, so they may be used to measure fluid pressure and/or fluid flow rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Applicant: PARKER-HANNIFIN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jason T. Dunn, Mario A. Calvo, Andrew Brenner, Kenji A. Kingsford
  • Patent number: 8844373
    Abstract: An exterior pressure detection device for detecting fluid pressure in pipes includes a body in which a circuit board and a pressure detection unit are received. The pressure detection unit includes a board and a pressure detecting chip which is electrically connected to the circuit board. An L-shaped clamping bar has a connection section and a clamping section which is parallel to the board. A pipe is clamped between the board and the clamping section. When the volume of the fluid passing through the pipe and changes the diameter of the pipe, the board is moved to activate the pressure detecting chip which transfer the change of the diameter of the pipe into a signal which is sent to the exterior main controlling device via the signal output device of the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventor: Chung-Yi Huang
  • Publication number: 20140261421
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a gas flow detector comprising a conduit, a first and a second pressure gauges. The conduit includes a flexible pipe, a first and a second connecting pipes. The flexible pipe has a contraction portion, a throat and an expanding portion. Further, the throat is sandwiched between the contraction portion and the expanding portion, and the inner diameter of the throat is smaller than that of the contraction portion and the expanding portion. The first and the second pressure gauges are configured to respectively detect the gas pressure of the first connecting pipe and the throat, and the gas flow rates of the first connecting pipe and the throat is calculated from the reading of the difference of the gas pressures. A positive airway pressure apparatus (PAPA) containing the gas flow detector is also disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Chia-Hsiang HSIAO
  • Publication number: 20140190273
    Abstract: Technique of suppressing performance variations for each flow sensor is provided. In a flow sensor FS1 of the present invention, apart of a semiconductor chip CHP1 is configured to be covered with resin (MR) in a state in which a flow sensing unit (FDU) formed on a semiconductor chip CHP1 is exposed. Since an upper surface SUR(MR) of the resin (MR) is higher than an upper surface SUR(CHP) of the semiconductor chip (CHP1) by sealing the resin (MR) on a part of the upper surface SUR(CHP) of the semiconductor chip CHP1 in a direction parallel to an air flow direction, the air flow around the flow sensing unit (FDU) can be stabilized. Further, interface peeling between the semiconductor chip (CHP1) and the resin (MR) can be prevented by an increase of contact area between the semiconductor chip (CHP1) and the resin (MR).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsutomu KONO, Keiji HANZAWA, Takeshi MORINO, Yuki OKAMOTO, Noboru TOKUYASU, Shinobu TASHIRO
  • Patent number: 8768631
    Abstract: The claimed method and system identifies faults and/or deterioration of components in a process control valve. The system may use different sensor combinations to provide the necessary data to compute irregular component integrity. Alerts may be generated to indicate potential component integrity problems. In particular, the system may detect potential deterioration and/or faults in actuator springs, pneumatic tubing and piping, and bellows seals. The claimed system may be communicatively coupled to a process control network to provide a more elaborate alarm system. Moreover, additional statistical methods may be used to refine the detection accuracy of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
    Inventor: Galen Dale Wilke
  • Publication number: 20140109691
    Abstract: Technique of suppressing performance variations for each flow sensor is provided. In a flow sensor FS1 of the present invention, a part of a semiconductor chip CHP1 is configured to be covered with resin (MR) in a state in which a flow sensing unit (FDU) formed on a semiconductor chip CHP1 is exposed. Since an upper surface SUR(MR) of the resin (MR) is higher than an upper surface SUR(CHP) of the semiconductor chip (CHP1) by sealing the resin (MR) on a part of the upper surface SUR(CHP) of the semiconductor chip CHP1 in a direction parallel to an air flow direction, the air flow around the flow sensing unit (FDU) can be stabilized. Further, interface peeling between the semiconductor chip (CHP1) and the resin (MR) can be prevented by an increase of contact area between the semiconductor chip (CHP1) and the resin (MR).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsutomu KONO, Keiji HANZAWA, Takeshi MORINO, Yuki OKAMOTO, Noboru TOKUYASU, Shinobu TASHIRO
  • Patent number: 8684077
    Abstract: An apparatus for estimating a parameter of interest includes a conduit and a reactive media in the conduit. The reactive media interacts with a selected fluid component to control a flow parameter of the conduit. The apparatus also includes at least one sensor responsive to the flow parameter. The apparatus may be used for estimating a water content of a fluid flowing from a subterranean formation. The apparatus may include a flow path configured to convey fluid from the formation. The at least one sensor may be responsive to a pressure change in the flow path caused by interaction of the reactive media with water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Paul Joseph, Tianping Huang
  • Patent number: 8567242
    Abstract: A pressure sensor venting system for efficiently and accurately measuring a liquid level. The pressure sensor venting system generally includes a housing, a pressure transducer within the housing, a diaphragm, a pressure passage fluidly connecting the pressure transducer and a pressurized liquid from the diaphragm, and a first vent tube that is fluidly connected to the pressure transducer opposite of the pressure passage. The distal end of the first vent tube extends outwardly from the housing and extends a distance into a second vent tube. The second vent tube is fluidly connected to liquid resistant vent that is positioned within the interior space of the liquid container and above the liquid level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: S.J. Electro Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan J. Bergum
  • Patent number: 8522625
    Abstract: A flow measuring arrangement for measuring flow through a measuring tube comprises at least one constriction located in the measuring tube, which effects a reduction of a volume through which a medium flows; at least one deflectable membrane applied to said constriction, wherein deflection of the membrane effects a change of a volume through which medium flows in the measuring tube; a pressure measuring system connected to the measuring tube for measuring pressure (?p, p); measuring electronics, which determines flow based on the measured pressure (?p, p); an apparatus for producing a time variable deflection of the membrane and a diagnostic system, which determines an affect of said deflections of the membrane on the measured pressure (?p, p), and which diagnoses the flow measuring arrangement based on the deflections and determined effects thereof on the measured pressure (?p, p).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventor: Michael Philipps
  • Patent number: 8516902
    Abstract: A flow sensor includes a fluid chamber configured to receive a fluid. A diaphragm assembly is configured to be displaced whenever the fluid within the fluid chamber is displaced. A transducer assembly is configured to monitor the displacement of the diaphragm assembly and generate a signal based, at least in part, upon the quantity of fluid displaced within the fluid chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Russell H. Beavis, Benjamin W. Jones, Jr., John M. Kerwin, Larry B. Gray, Casey P. Manning, Felix Winkler, Robert A. Charles
  • Patent number: 8511180
    Abstract: A flowmeter device for measuring a flow rate of a fluid includes a conduit for the fluid flow. The conduit is characterized by a cross-sectional area and includes at least one section within which the cross-sectional area is different from the cross-sectional area of at least one other section of the conduit. The device also includes a reference tube separated from the conduit by a wall and at least one opening in the wall between the section and the reference tube. The device includes a flexible diaphragm forming a space between the diaphragm and a region of the wall at the section of the conduit, and which includes the opening, to inhibit flow of the fluid between the conduit and the reference tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Ofer Melamed
    Inventor: Ofer Melamed
  • Publication number: 20130192388
    Abstract: Technique of suppressing performance variations for each flow sensor is provided. In a flow sensor FS1 of the present invention, a part of a semiconductor chip CHP1 is configured to be covered with resin (MR) in a state in which a flow sensing unit (FDU) formed on a semiconductor chip CHP1 is exposed. Since an upper surface SUR(MR) of the resin (MR) is higher than an upper surface SUR(CHP) of the semiconductor chip (CHP1) by sealing the resin (MR) on a part of the upper surface SUR(CHP) of the semiconductor chip CHP1 in a direction parallel to an air flow direction, the air flow around the flow sensing unit (FDU) can be stabilized. Further, interface peeling between the semiconductor chip (CHP1) and the resin (MR) can be prevented by an increase of contact area between the semiconductor chip (CHP1) and the resin (MR).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsutomu Kono, Keiji Hanzawa, Takeshi Morino, Yuki Okamoto, Noboru Tokuyasu, Shinobu Tashiro
  • Publication number: 20130128450
    Abstract: A removable vent (1) for an air ventilation system, the vent comprising: a frame (2) configured to allow the vent to be removably mounted within an opening; a grille (3) configured to allow the passage of air through the vent from a first face to a second opposing face; and a passive air flow diverter (4, 5) extending beyond the first face (7) of the vent and configured to redirect air flowing laterally across the first face to flow through the vent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: 4Energy Limited
    Inventors: Stuart Peter Redshaw, Patrick Tindale
  • Publication number: 20120298219
    Abstract: An air pressure differential sensing system includes a conduit defining an air passage through which air flows upon application of an air pressure differential across different regions of the air passage, a flap pivotally connected to the conduit, and a sensing device mounted proximate to the air passage and separate from the flap. The flap is configured to move about a pivotal axis in response to the air flowing through the air passage. The sensing device is configured to sense an angular position of the flap about the pivotal axis, the angular position of the flap being a function of the air pressure differential.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: AMERICAN POWER CONVERSION CORPORATION
    Inventors: John H. Bean, JR., Ozan Tutunoglu, Daniel J. Rohr
  • Patent number: 8286505
    Abstract: A fluid delivery system and method for measuring flow at a patient utilizing a differential force sensor in order to precisely control the flow of fluid at very low flow rates. The system includes a fluid line through which a fluid is conveyed to the patient, and a flow controller that selectively varies a rate of flow of the fluid through the fluid line. The differential force sensor can be mounted very close to a point of entry of the fluid into the patient's body. An onboard communications device is controllably coupled to the flow controller and to the force sensor, responds to an output signal, and provides a feedback to the flow controller in a closed-loop process. The system can pump the fluid at a higher frequency until the flow rate is actually reached at the patient and then adjust to the flow rate needed to ensure patient health.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Wade
  • Patent number: 8202949
    Abstract: A system and method for measuring pressure and flow rate of polymer slurry circulating in a loop reactor. For flow rate measurement, the loop reactor has a pressure tap on an outside radius of an elbow of the loop and a pressure tap on an inside radius of the elbow. The pressure taps incorporate diaphragms. Sensing legs couple the pressure taps with a differential pressure meter configured to provide a signal indicative of the flow rate of the polymer slurry. For pressure measurement, pressure taps without diaphragms at the loop reactor wall may be disposed at various points along the loop reactor, the pressure taps coupled to pressure sensing lines. A diluent flush line having a screen disposed therein may provide diluent to the pressure taps. The screen may reduce fouling of the pressure tap and sensing line with solids from the reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP
    Inventors: Robert R. McElvain, John D. Hottovy, Larry W. Ezell, Anurag Gupta
  • Patent number: 8091436
    Abstract: A differential force sensor method and apparatus for automatically monitoring manual injections through an intravenous line. The differential force sensor includes two piezoresistive sense die that are packaged in close proximity utilizing a number of packaging processes. The two piezoresistive sense die can be utilized to measure forces exerted on a diaphragm on either side of an orifice. The piezoresistive sense die can be packaged in close proximity to make intimate contact with the diaphragms on either side of the orifice. The differential force sensor further includes two plungers that make intimate contact with the diaphragm and transfer the force into the piezo-resistive sense dies. Additionally, one or more ASICs and microcontrollers can be utilized to provide thermal calibration and differential calculation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Eckhardt, Richard Wade, Ryan Jones
  • Patent number: 8087303
    Abstract: A flow sensor includes a fluid chamber configured to receive a fluid. A diaphragm assembly is configured to be displaced whenever the fluid within the fluid chamber is displaced. A transducer assembly is configured to monitor the displacement of the diaphragm assembly and generate a signal based, at least in part, upon the quantity of fluid displaced within the fluid chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Russell H. Beavis
  • Patent number: 8086375
    Abstract: A method for adjusting sensitivity of a load detecting device of a seat for a vehicle includes a seat assembling step for assembling the seat with plural load sensors assembled, a zero point adjusting step for obtaining a non-load output value by totaling output values of the load sensors when no load is applied on the seat and memorizing the non-load output value in a memory of a processing device, an adjusted output value calculating step for obtaining an adjusted output value by subtracting the non-load output value from a total of the output values of the load sensors when a predetermined load is applied on the seat, a trimming coefficient calculating step for calculating a trimming coefficient by dividing a designed output value by the adjusted output value, and a trimming coefficient memorizing step for memorizing the trimming coefficient in the memory of the processing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignees: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Satohiko Nakano, Mutsuro Aoyama, Akira Enomoto, Minoru Izawa
  • Patent number: 8067760
    Abstract: A fluid flow control system using flow rate changes to extract additional information from an in-line flow sensor. The system provides the ability to determine a position of a movable flow sensor element of a flow sensor by illuminating a photosensitive pixel array with a light source to create a first set of pixel intensity values introducing an abrupt change to the fluid driving pressure, illuminating the photosensitive pixel array with a light source to create a second set of pixel intensity values, and calculating the difference between the first and second sets of pixel intensity values as a function of pixel position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Fluidnet Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Carlisle, Charles E. Kramer, John M. Kirkman, Jr., Douglas E. Vincent
  • Patent number: 8036837
    Abstract: The claimed method and system identifies faults and/or deterioration of components in a process control valve. The system may use different sensor combinations to provide the necessary data to compute irregular component integrity. Alerts may be generated to indicate potential component integrity problems. In particular, the system may detect potential deterioration and/or faults in actuator springs, pneumatic tubing and piping, and bellows seals. The claimed system may be communicatively coupled to a process control network to provide a more elaborate alarm system. Moreover, additional statistical methods may be used to refine the detection accuracy of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
    Inventor: Galen Dale Wilke
  • Patent number: 7878051
    Abstract: A liquid measurement apparatus is configured to measure an amount of liquid flowing from a measured object. The apparatus includes a passage member having a measurement passage being connected to the measured object at one end. The measurement passage is filled with liquid. The apparatus further includes a closed vessel, which is connected to an other end of the measurement passage and filled with saturated vapor of the liquid. The apparatus further includes an analyzer. The liquid filled in the measurement passage contains a bubble, which is movable in accordance with change in amount of the liquid in the measurement passage. The analyzer is configured to calculate a travel distance of the bubble and configured to measure the amount of the liquid flowing from the measured object based on the calculated travel distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroki Tani, Makoto Yamaguchi, Shinichi Kaibuki, Tetsuji Kudoh
  • Patent number: 7847276
    Abstract: A fluid flow control system using flow rates to extract additional information from an in-line flow sensor. The system provides the ability to determine a position of a movable flow sensor element of a flow sensor by illuminating a photosensitive pixel array with a light source to create a first set of pixel intensity values introducing an abrupt change to the fluid driving pressure, illuminating the photosensitive pixel array with a light source to create a second set of pixel intensity values, and calculating the difference between the first and second sets of pixel intensity values as a function of pixel position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Fluidnet Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Carlisle, Charles E. Kramer, John M. Kirkman, Jr., Douglas E. Vincent
  • Patent number: 7775127
    Abstract: A fluid delivery system and method for measuring flow at a patient utilizing a differential force sensor in order to precisely control the flow of fluid at very low flow rates. The system includes a fluid line through which a fluid is conveyed to the patient, and a flow controller that selectively varies a rate of flow of the fluid through the fluid line. The differential force sensor can be mounted very close to a point of entry of the fluid into the patient's body. An onboard communications device is controllably coupled to the flow controller and to the force sensor, responds to an output signal, and provides a feedback to the flow controller in a closed-loop process. The system can pump the fluid at a higher frequency until the flow rate is actually reached at the patient and then adjust to the flow rate needed to ensure patient health.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Wade
  • Patent number: 7775126
    Abstract: A differential force sensor method and apparatus for automatically monitoring manual injections through an intravenous line. The differential force sensor includes two piezoresistive sense die that are packaged in close proximity utilizing a number of packaging processes. The two piezoresistive sense die can be utilized to measure forces exerted on a diaphragm on either side of an orifice. The piezoresistive sense die can be packaged in close proximity to make intimate contact with the diaphragms on either side of the orifice. The differential force sensor further includes two plungers that make intimate contact with the diaphragm and transfer the force into the piezo-resistive sense dies. Additionally, one or more ASICs and microcontrollers can be utilized to provide thermal calibration and differential calculation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Eckhardt, Richard Wade, Ryan Jones
  • Publication number: 20100122583
    Abstract: Method and system for a wet/wet differential pressure sensor based on microelectronic packaging process. A top cap with a hole can be attached to a topside of a MEMS-configured pressure sense die with a pressure sensing diaphragm in order to allow sensed media to come in contact with the topside of the pressure sensing diaphragm. An optional constraint with a hole for stress relief can be attached to a backside of the pressure sense die. Adhesive and/or elastomeric seals and/or solder can be utilized to seal the pressure sense die allowing sensed media to come in contact with both sides of the pressure sensing diaphragm without coming into contact with wirebonds and other metallized surfaces. The MEMS-configured pressure sense die can also be bonded to a substrate with standard die attach materials. Such microelectronic packaging processes yield a high performance and cost effective solution thereby providing wet-wet pressure sensing capability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventors: Paul Rozgo, Alistair Bradley, Ryan S. Jones, Lamar F. Ricks
  • Patent number: 7698936
    Abstract: Fuel gauges for fuel supplies for fuel cells are disclosed. Each fuel gauge has a property that is readable by an electrical circuit. These properties are related to the remaining fuel in the fuel supplies. These properties include, but are not limited to, electrical capacitance, magnetic, semi-conducting resistance, bi-metal resistance, and oscillating magnetic field. These fuel gauges are functional at any fuel supply orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Societe BIC
    Inventors: Andrew J. Curello, Floyd Fairbanks
  • Publication number: 20100088045
    Abstract: One embodiment provides a flow meter including an airfoil movably secured in the airflow path of a fan in an electronic system. The airfoil is configured to generate a lift component in response to the airflow. A sensor engages the airfoil and generates a signal in relation to the movement of the airfoil. Airflow parameters such as volumetric airflow rate and turbulence may be identified by an analysis of the movement of the airfoil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: James Gordon McLean, Keith Manders Campbell, Raymond Todd Greggs, Carloine Magdy Metry
  • Publication number: 20100056732
    Abstract: A system and method for measuring pressure and flow rate of polymer slurry circulating in a loop reactor. For flow rate measurement, the loop reactor has a pressure tap on an outside radius of an elbow of the loop and a pressure tap on an inside radius of the elbow. The pressure taps incorporate diaphragms. Sensing legs couple the pressure taps with a differential pressure meter configured to provide a signal indicative of the flow rate of the polymer slurry. For pressure measurement, pressure taps without diaphragms at the loop reactor wall may be disposed at various points along the loop reactor, the pressure taps coupled to pressure sensing lines. A diluent flush line having a screen disposed therein may provide diluent to the pressure taps. The screen may reduce fouling of the pressure tap and sensing line with solids from the reactor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP
    Inventors: Robert R. McElvain, John D. Hottovy, Larry W. Ezell, Anurag Gupta
  • Publication number: 20100018324
    Abstract: A volumetric fluid flow sensor (100) includes a flow channel (120) for flowing a fluid therein; and a diaphragm (110) having an outer surface within the flow channel (120). The diaphragm (110) includes at least one flow disrupting feature mechanically coupled to or emerging from the outer surface of the diaphragm (110). A sensing structure (126) is coupled to the diaphragm (110) for generating a sensing signal responsive to a pressure signal on the diaphragm (110).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventors: Wayne Kilian, Scott Edward Beck, Gilberto Morales
  • Patent number: 7647842
    Abstract: A volumetric fluid flow sensor (100) includes a flow channel (120) for flowing a fluid therein; and a diaphragm (110) having an outer surface within the flow channel (120). The diaphragm (110) includes at least one flow disrupting feature mechanically coupled to or emerging from the outer surface of the diaphragm (110). A sensing structure (126) is coupled to the diaphragm (110) for generating a sensing signal responsive to a pressure signal on the diaphragm (110).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne Kilian, Scott Edward Beck, Gilberto Morales
  • Publication number: 20100005903
    Abstract: A flow sensor includes a fluid chamber configured to receive a fluid. A diaphragm assembly is configured to be displaced whenever the fluid within the fluid chamber is displaced. A transducer assembly is configured to monitor the displacement of the diaphragm assembly and generate a signal based, at least in part, upon the quantity of fluid displaced within the fluid chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Russell H. Beavis
  • Publication number: 20090217772
    Abstract: A gas flow meter for obtaining flow volume readings in a gas conduit, including sensors mounted upstream and downstream of a flow restriction device on a rotor, the rotor further including at least one more flow restriction device that can be rotated into position relative to the conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Applicant: CAMINO INDUSTRIES INC.
    Inventor: Timothy Angus Reeve
  • Publication number: 20090178491
    Abstract: Differential pressure sensor assemblies for detecting and measuring infrasound, which is generally characterized as sound produced at frequencies below 20 Hertz (Hz). Specifically, the differential pressure sensor assemblies may form part of a detection system for clear air turbulence or other atmospheric turbulence. The differential pressure sensor assemblies detect a differential pressure across a flexible diaphragm that separates an ambient pressure chamber from a reference pressure chamber. In one embodiment, the pressure in the reference chamber may be controlled using a valve that may be selectively opened and closed. In another embodiment, the pressure in the reference chamber may be controlled using a static, structural member with a plurality of small openings that permits the reference chamber to be in continuous fluid communication with an ambient environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: John B. McKitterick, Dan T. Horak
  • Publication number: 20090024295
    Abstract: A method and system for remotely monitoring the operation of a multicylinder, turbocharged reciprocating engine includes monitoring one or more operating parameters predictive of the turbocharger's output, and generating a parametric output signal corresponding to the value of the sampled operating parameter. The parametric output signal is transmitted via telemetry to a remote diagnostic center, where actual mass flow is determined with a flow detection system, and then the charge air mass flow is compared with a predetermined flow rate corresponding to the monitored operating parameter, such as turbocharger speed or turbocharger pressure ratio. A condition flag is set if the actual charge air flow rate is less than a predetermined flow rate based upon the parametric output signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventors: Kendall Roger Swenson, James Robert Mischler, Luke Michael Henry
  • Publication number: 20090020170
    Abstract: A combination air regulator and sensor assembly includes a head including a first chamber having an inlet and an outlet. A regulator dome including a second chamber is linked with the first chamber through a bore. The second chamber includes at least one outlet. A valve assembly is housed within the bore and moveable between closed and open positions sealing and allowing flow in the bore. A first diaphragm is positioned in the second chamber and linked with the valve assembly. The valve assembly moves in response to a pressure applied to the first diaphragm. A spring contacts the first diaphragm and applies a biasing force to the first diaphragm. A sensor dome including a third chamber is linked with the outlet of the second chamber. The sensor chamber includes a discharge outlet. A second diaphragm is positioned in the sensor chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Applicant: Master Pneumatic-Detroit, Inc.
    Inventors: Julia Anderson, Lawrence Brice, Anton Kristl, JR.
  • Publication number: 20090007695
    Abstract: A gaseous fuel injector 3 supplies gaseous fuel from a compressed gas cylinder 1 into a measuring portion thin tube 5 and pressure change in the tube is measured by a pressure measuring device 4 through a small hole provided in the thin tube 5. An extension thin tube 6 for removing the influence of reflected waves is provided on the downstream side of the measuring portion thin tube 5. There is provided at the downstream side end of the extension thin tube a back pressure valve 13 for uniformly increasing the pressure in the tube and for bringing the pressure close to the actual environment in the engine cylinder. Also, a tapered-shape nozzle is arranged in the measuring portion thin tube 5. Pressure measured by the pressure measuring device 4 is transduced into mass flow rate in the thin tube according to a predetermined calculation formula. Accordingly, it is possible to measure instantaneous mass flow rate of gaseous fuel injected from the gaseous fuel injector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CORPORATION GUNMA UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Mikiya Araki, Seiichi Shiga, Tsuneaki Ishima, Tomio Obokata, Yasuhiro Fujiwara, Hisao Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20090000395
    Abstract: A flow meter having a scale with temperature set points corresponding to a flow rate that a known fluid flowing therethrough at the set point temperature must reach to ensure turbulent flow of the fluid through a cooling system of a specified diameter. The flow meter preferably includes a plurality of scales, each having temperature set points corresponding to a different sized passageway in the mold cooling system. The scales are printed on a sleeve, rotatably mounted on a cylindrical body of the flow meter. The scales are selectively rotated into view by an operator to permit the operator to use the appropriate scale corresponding to the diameter of the passageways of the cooling system with which the flow meter is to be used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: BURGER & BROWN ENGINEERING, INC.
    Inventors: Mark A. Brown, Philip M. Burger
  • Publication number: 20080245136
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring and controlling nano-scale flow rate of fluid in the operating flow path of a HPLC system provide fluid flow without relying on complex calibration routines to compensate for solvent compositions gradients typically used in HPLC. The apparatus and method are used to correct the flow output of a typical, analytical-scale (0.1-5 mL/min) HPLC pump to enable accurate anti precise flow delivery at capillary (<0.1 mL/min) and nano-scale (<?L/min) HPLC flow rates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: WATERS INVESTMENTS LIMITED
    Inventors: Geoff C. Gerhardt, Joseph A. Luongo