text:
Inventors list
Assignees list
Classification tree browser
Top 100 Inventors
Top 100 Assignees
With control of flow by a condition or characteristic of a fluid
Subclass of:
137 - Fluid handling
Patent class list (only not empty are listed)
Deeper subclasses:
|Class / Patent application number
|Number of patent applications / Date published
|By fluid pressure
|Mixing of plural fluids of diverse characteristics or conditions
|By speed of fluid
|For producing uniform flow
|For producing proportionate flow
|For regulating boiler feed water level
|BLOWOFF TANK - A blowoff tank (B) for receiving blow-down, blowoff, and drain water from an HRSG (C) or other type of boiler, so as to lower the temperature of that water enough to enable it to be discharged into a sewer system, includes a generally cylindrical vessel (
|Method and device for regulating the production of steam in a steam plant - A method for regulating the production of steam from feed water in an evaporator of a steam plant is provided. A state regulator calculates a plurality of states of a medium in the evaporator by means of an observer and, on the basis thereof, determines a feed water mass flow rate as a regulating variable. In order to obtain a stable and precise regulation of the temperature of the steam, the state regulator is a linear-quadratic regulator.
|TOILET WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM AND METHOD THEREFOR - A toilet water supply system comprising: a used water reservoir, in addition to a tank of said toilet, for storing used water to be supplied to said toilet tank from a domestic water source; an adequate-water sensor, for sensing whether said reservoir is full; and a water-directing apparatus, for directing water from said used-water source towards said used water reservoir upon sensing that said reservoir is not full, and towards a domestic drain upon sensing that said water reservoir is full, wherein said directing is carried out using a pump and the operation thereof is regulated, wherein said water-directing apparatus, said sensor and said pump being separated from said water reservoir and the capacity of said apparatus being less than about 3 liters, thereby allowing placing said water directing apparatus in an easy accessible location, resulting with convenient maintenance.
|GAS ACTUATED VALVE - A method and system to pulse at least one solenoid valve to regulate the volume of instrument air or other gas (e.g. nitrogen or natural gas) to the supply side or from the discharge side of a diaphragm actuator. The diaphragm actuator operates a primary variable flow/choke control valve in response to process control signals.
|Process and apparatus for thawing jelled diesel fuel - Jelled diesel fuel from a truck or the like is pumped into a heating tank where is it heated by hot propylene glycol that has been heated by a burner and that is circulated through heat exchangers in the heating tank. The fuel is heated to a preselected temperature and then returned to the truck's fuel tanks. The fuel filter is removed and a similar shaped shell installed in place of the fuel filter and is pressurized with compressed air to blow jelled fuel out of the fuel lines and a new fuel filter is installed, preferably before the hot fuel is returned to the truck's tanks.
|APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A FLUID FLOWING THROUGH A PIPELINE - An apparatus and method for controlling the passage of a multiple-phase fluid through a pipeline are provided. The apparatus can generally include a first tubular passage that defines an inlet and an outlet, and a valve that is fluidly positioned between the inlet and the outlet and configured to control the flow of fluid through the first tubular passage. A second tubular passage extends from a first position upstream of the valve to a second position downstream of the valve so that the second tubular passage is configured to receive fluid from the first tubular passage upstream of the valve and deliver the fluid to the first tubular passage downstream of the valve. The valve can be selectively controlled to an open configuration to allow gas in the fluid to flow through the first tubular passage while liquid accumulates in the second tubular passage and a closed configuration to direct gas in the fluid to flow through the second tubular passage and thereby deliver liquid accumulated in the accumulation volume as a slug through the outlet of the first tubular passage.
|MAINTAINING A WATER LEVEL IN A HUMIDIFICATION COMPONENT - A device for maintaining a water level in a respiratory humidification system, said device comprising: at least one sensor positioned external to a humidification component, the at least one sensor configured for sensing water related information in the humidification component and providing the water related information to a water control module, the water related information comprising data configured for being used to control an operation of the water control module.
|METHODS FOR IN-SITU CALIBRATION OF A FLOW CONTROLLER - Methods and apparatus for in-situ calibration of a flow controller are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method of flowing a gas includes providing a flow controller configured to provide a first gas at a first value of a flow rate based on a calculated first relationship determined by using a standard gas; determining an actual first relationship between the flow rate and the setpoint for the first gas from a plurality of values of the flow rate of the first gas determined at a corresponding plurality of values of the setpoint of the flow controller, wherein each of the plurality of values of the flow rate is determined from flowing the first gas through the flow controller at corresponding ones of the plurality of values for the setpoint; and flowing the first gas at the first value of the flow rate based on the actual first relationship.
|FLOW RATE CONTROL USING MASS FLOW RATE CONTROL DEVICE - It is possible to respecify the product (mass flow controller) corresponding to multiple types of actual process gases and multiple flow rate ranges, even after the mass flow controller has been shipped. With the mass flow rate control device in an initial state, calibration gas characteristic data is derived by measuring actual flow rate versus a flow rate setting signal using a calibration gas, and this calibration gas characteristic data is then saved to control unit. Meanwhile, actual gas characteristic data is derived by measuring actual flow rate versus a flow rate setting signal for each of a plurality of types of actual gas, and this actual gas characteristic data is then saved to a storage medium. Subsequently, prior to operating the mass flow rate control device, the actual gas characteristic data for an actual process gas is read from the storage medium via a computer, and the calibration gas characteristic data that was saved to the control unit is read out. The calibration gas characteristic data is then converted to controlled flow rate correction data based on the actual gas characteristic data, and the controlled flow rate correction data is saved to the control unit. Actual gas flow rate is corrected based on this controlled flow rate correction data.
|Thermally activated pressure relief - The housing is attachable to a high pressure fluid containing structure. A piston is provided within the housing, with the piston having a closed position and an open position. The closed position blocks an outlet vent of the relief device, with the open position allowing high pressure fluid to escape through the vent. The piston is biased toward the open position by the high pressure fluid, but is held in the closed position by a slide. The slide has a first position and a second position, with the first position holding the piston in the closed position. A spring biases the slide toward a second position, with a eutectic mass resisting movement of the slide to the second position. The eutectic mass is selected to have a melting point matching a maximum design temperature for the high pressure fluid containing structure. Should the eutectic mass melt, the high pressure fluid escapes.
|METHOD AND DEVICE FOR ADJUSTING THE MASS FLOW RATE OF A GAS STREAM - The invention relates to a method and device for controlling the mass flow rate of a sonic gas stream in a pipe. To carry out the above operation, an electric discharge is applied inside the pipe so as to create a plasma in the pipe. The electric discharge allows for an increase in the temperature of the gas stream and thus a variation in the mass flow rate or the pressure of the gas stream. By periodically emitting the electric discharge, a pulsed or adjustable gas jet is obtained at the outlet of the device. The gas jet can then be used to control a main stream.
|METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR LEVEL LOOP CONTROL - Example methods and apparatus for level loop control are disclosed. A disclosed example method includes determining via a sensor a first pressure of a liquid in a tank, determining via a turbine flow meter a second pressure of the liquid in the tank, determining if the first pressure is within a specified range of deviation from the second pressure to determine an operational state of the turbine flow meter, and transmitting a diagnostic message indicating that the turbine flow meter needs to be serviced based on the state of the turbine flow meter.
|UTILIZING SWELLABLE MATERIALS TO CONTROL FLUID FLOW - Methods and related systems are described for controlling inflow of fluid into a production string. In aspects, the invention provides an inflow control device with a shut-off feature that is operated automatically utilizing swellable materials.
|High Flow Capacity Positioner - A valve positioner for controlling a valve closure element is provided. The positioner includes a positioner housing with a plurality of fluid flow passageways in fluid communication with a fluid supply source and the valve closure element. The positioner housing is configured to receive a detachable spool manifold assembly. The spool manifold assembly is positioned adjacent the plurality of fluid flow passageways. The spool manifold assembly includes a reciprocally moveable spool configured to selectively port fluid flow from the plurality of fluid flow passageways. The spool manifold assembly includes a diaphragm connected to the spool via a flexible shaft. The diaphragm is in fluid communication with a transducer for receiving a fluid causing the diaphragm to expand or contract and thereby displacing the spool. The flexible shaft is radially elastic in order to minimize axial backlash between the diaphragm and the spool. The flexible shaft configuration minimizes the spool stroke.
|CELLULOSE PRETREATMENT PROCESS - A process for the production of ethanol from biomass is disclosed. The process relates to the pretreatment of corncob biomass and includes the steps of exposing corncob to steam in a reaction vessel at an elevated temperature and reaction pressure for a preselected exposure time. Volatile compounds are continuously vented during pretreatment. The reaction pressure is released for explosive decomposition of the corncob biomass into fibrous solids and condensate. The exposure is preferably carried out at a temperature of 190-210° C. and a pressure of 190 psig to 275 psig and an exposure time of 3 to 10 minutes.
|STEERING CONTROL UNIT AND ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC STEERING LOAD SENSE CONTROL - An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a steering system having first and second steering circuits in fluid communication with a fluid actuator wherein the steering circuits are disposed in parallel to each other. The second steering circuit includes a proportional valve having a load-sense feature in selective fluid communication with a load-sense connection and the first steering circuit. The load-sense feature is open to the first steering circuit when the proportional valve is in a neutral position and closed to the first steering circuit when the proportional valve is moved to a first or second steering position. When the proportional valve is actuated from the neutral position to the first or second steering position the movement of the proportional valve closes the load sense feature from the first steering circuit and operates to deactivate the first steering circuit.
|SPECIFIC GRAVITY VALVE FOR A PRODUCTION TANK - A production tank with a tank body has an oil outlet and a water outlet in combination with specific gravity valves. A specific gravity valve is mounted to each outlet. Each specific gravity valve has a floating valve member, a valve seat associated with the valve member and a valve member retainer. The valve member retainer retains the valve member and permits limited vertical movement of the valve member between an open position, away from the valve seat, and a closed position where the valve member directly engages with the valve seat. In the open position, fluid may flow through the outlets and, in the closed position, fluid flow through the outlets is prevented. On the oil outlet, the valve member retainer retains the valve member above the fluid outlet and, on the water outlet, the valve member retainer retains the valve member below the fluid outlet.
|METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONVEYING FLUIDS INTO THE TREATMENT UNIT OF A MEDICAL TREATMENT APPARATUS, IN PARTICULAR INTO THE DIALYZER OF A DIALYSIS APPARATUS - The present invention relates to a device and method for conveying fluids into the treatment unit of a medical treatment apparatus. The device and method according to the present invention are based on the fact that the fluid with which the treatment unit is supplied, circulates in a fluid circuit including the treatment unit. To balance fresh and used fluid fed to the treatment unit or conveyed from the treatment unit, a balancing unit with a balancing chamber is used, which can be incorporated into the fluid circuit including the treatment unit. It is thus possible to supply the fluid circuit continuously with fresh fluid or to carry away used fluid continuously from the fluid circuit. The supply and discharge of fresh and used fluid can take place at a different flow rate from the flow rate at which the fluid circulates in the fluid circuit via the treatment unit.
|METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRODUCING, TRADING AND TRANSPORTING WATER - Methods and systems for producing, trading, transporting, and storing commodities are disclosed. More specifically, methods and systems for producing, trading, transporting, and storing large quantities of water having specific characteristics are provided. Methods for transferring title and trading commodities in the form of water are disclosed. Various transport systems are disclosed, including devices and methods for utilizing preexisting vessels to carry different liquid cargoes which should not contact one another.
|VENT TUBE APPARTUS AND METHOD - A venting apparatus for a liquid dispensing container adapted to hold a quantity of liquid having a liquid level within the liquid dispensing container. The venting apparatus includes a vent that has an aperture through which gas can exit the liquid dispensing container, a float, a liquid barrier carried by the float, and a flexible tube connecting the vent and the float. The flexible tube establishes fluid communication for gas through the vent and the liquid barrier between an interior space within the liquid dispensing container located above the liquid level and an exterior of the liquid dispensing container.
|PIPELINE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DRAINING A PIPELINE SYSTEM - The invention relates to a pipeline system for conveying a salt melt, comprising at least one pipeline (
|ADJUSTABLE AIR FLOW BYPASS IN A WATER VAPOR TRANSFER ASSEMBLY TO REDUCE BEGINNING OF LIFE WATER TRANSFER VARIATION - A bypass unit for a water vapor transfer assembly includes a main body, a check valve, and an adjustable flow regulator. The main body has a conduit formed therethrough. The check valve is in communication with the conduit. The check valve normally militates against a flow of a bypass stream through the conduit and permits the flow of the bypass stream through the conduit above a threshold flow rate. The flow regulator is in communication with the conduit. The flow regulator permits an adjustment of the flow of the bypass stream to modify the water transfer rate of the water transfer assembly.
|HYBRID VALVE FOR ATTENUATION OF LOW FREQUENCY NOISE - A hybrid valve assembly for an exhaust system includes an exhaust tube having a bore defining an exhaust flow path. A vane is mounted within the bore and is moveable between an open position and a closed position. A resilient member biases the vane toward the closed position. A valve actuator has an ON position where movement of the vane is actively controlled by the valve actuator and an OFF position where movement of the vane is passively controlled by exhaust gas flow.
|PRESSURE-TANK WATER-LEVEL CONTROL METHOD IN A PIPING SYSTEM USING A LEVEL TRANSMITTER AND A LEVEL SWITCH - Disclosed herein is a method of controlling a water level of a pressure tank of a piping system. The piping system includes the pressure tank, a level transmitter, a first level switch disposed on a low-level-alarm line, a second level switch disposed between the low-level-alarm line and a lower limit line of an optimal level range, a third level switch disposed between a high-level-alarm line and an upper limit line of the optimal level range, and a fourth level switch disposed on a high-level-alarm line. The method includes receiving a level measurement value from the level transmitter; receiving and checking ON/OFF signals of the level switches; comparing the level measurement value with the ON/OFF signals; determining whether an abnormality has occurred in the level transmitter, and determining whether to raise or lower the water level; and supplying gas to the pressure tank or exhausting gas therefrom.
|MASS FLOW CONTROLLER AND METHOD OF OPERATING THE SAME - One embodiment of the present invention involves a thermal sensor and a method of using the same. One thermal sensor is adapted to output a signal which is unaffected by external longitudinal and orthogonal thermal gradients. In one embodiment, the mass flow controller thermal sensor comprises a capillary tube having an upstream tube portion, a tube bend portion, and a downstream tube portion, the downstream portion being substantially parallel to the upstream portion. A distance between the upstream tube portion and the downstream tube portion in one embodiment is no greater than half the upstream portion and downstream portion lengths, a first pair of thermal sensing elements are coupled to the upstream tube portion and a second pair of thermal sensing elements are coupled to the downstream tube portion.
|FEEDBACK CONTROL IN MICROFLUIDIC SYSTEMS - Systems and methods for controlling fluids in microfluidic systems are generally described. In some embodiments, control of fluids involves the use of feedback from one or more processes or events taking place in the microfluidic system. For instance, a detector may detect one or more fluids at a measurement zone of a microfluidic system and one or more signals, or a pattern of signals, may be generated corresponding to the fluid(s). In some cases, the signal or pattern of signals may correspond to an intensity, a duration, a position in time relative to a second position in time or relative to another process, and/or an average time period between events. Using this data, a control system may determine whether to modulate subsequent fluid flow in the microfluidic system. In some embodiments, these and other methods can be used to conduct quality control to determine abnormalities in operation of the microfluidic system.
|MATERIAL DELIVERY SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A method of determining an operational parameter of a washing system having a wash tank to which water and material are added. In some embodiments, the method includes establishing a communication link between a sensor and a controller. The sensor is positioned in the wash tank and transmits a signal indicative of a material concentration. The controller receives the signal. Additionally, the method includes adding material to water in the wash tank, monitoring the material concentration while material is being added, and stopping the material addition upon the material concentration reaching a predetermined material concentration. The controller then determines an operational parameter indicative of the amount of material that is needed to reach the predetermined material concentration.
|Microfluidic Free Interface Diffusion Techniques - A static fluid and a second fluid are placed into contact along a microfluidic free interface and allowed to mix by diffusion without convective flow across the interface. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the fluids are static and initially positioned on either side of a closed valve structure in a microfluidic channel having a width that is tightly constrained in at least one dimension. The valve is then opened, and no-slip layers at the sides of the microfluidic channel suppress convective mixing between the two fluids along the resulting interface. Applications for microfluidic free interfaces in accordance with embodiments of the present invention include, but are not limited to, protein crystallization studies, protein solubility studies, determination of properties of fluidics systems, and a variety of biological assays such as diffusive immunoassays, substrate turnover assays, and competitive binding assays.
|Batch interface reducing agent (BIRDA) - A method of reducing the batch interface mixing on heavy crude oil and bitumen pipelines through injection of a batch interface reducing agent (BIRDA) into the batch, and recovery of the material from the batch. The BIRDA is comprised of low carbon count hydrocarbons in the ethane to pentane range, or a mixture thereof.
|Large Area Water Redistribution Network - A system and methods for the redistribution of water as a resource across large geographic distances where water deficits are matched with excess water conditions. The system utilizes a large area network of water conduits that extend between nodes, generally between water reservoirs and water usage areas. The system receives water into the network from geographic areas experiencing excess water and distributes the excess water to areas experiencing water deficits. The system includes terminal nodes having water inlet/outlet systems with metering and pumping components coupled with flow control valves. Each terminal node positioned at an existing reservoir is controlled to permit the inlet of water into the system or the discharge of water from the system. Intermediate nodes incorporate similar flow metering and pumping components as well as flow control valve components. The system is monitored and controlled through wired or wireless communication from a central station. The method provides for the establishment of normal water level ranges and the monitoring of a large number of geographic areas for excess water or water deficit conditions. The system matches excess water areas with deficit regions and coordinates the transfer of water between such regions. Excess water regions may also be coordinated with multiple normal water level regions for the distribution of excess water over a large area. A water deficit region without a direct match to a water excess region may draw from multiple normal regions.
|OIL PRESSURE CONTROL DEVICE - In an oil pressure control device equipped with a plurality of solenoid valves, and foreign matter discharge means, the foreign matter discharge means carries out the foreign matter discharge treatment for a treatment period composed of a first period T
|Fluid control system, device and method - A fluid control system, device and method are disclosed. The fluid control device is preferably configured to connect to an outlet of a fluid source. The fluid control device includes a valve, a sensor, a battery and a micro-generator. The sensor is used to measure or detect a condition and provide output signals that open and close the valve in response to a measured or detected condition. The micro-generator is positioned in a flow path of fluid and generates power from a flow of the fluid. The power generated from the micro-generator is stored in the battery and used to power later operations of the device. The device can be used for automating faucets, sprinklers and fire extinguishing equipment.
|MICROFLUIDIC METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR FLUID MIXING AND VALVING - According to one embodiment, an apparatus and method for delivering one or more fluids to a microfluidic channel is provided. A microfluidic channel is provided in communication with a first conduit for delivering fluids to the microfluidic channel. Further, the apparatus and method can include a first fluid freeze valve connected to the first conduit and operable to reduce the temperature of the first conduit for freezing fluid in the first conduit such that fluid is prevented from advancing through the first conduit.
|MANAGEMENT METHOD FOR WAX FRACTION STORAGE TANK - The present invention relates to a management method for a wax fraction storage tank that stores a wax fraction produced by Fischer-Tropsch synthesis until the wax fraction is hydrocracked, the management method including maintaining the temperature inside the tank at 90° C. to 130° C. and maintaining the atmosphere inside the tank to be an inert gas atmosphere.
|METHOD FOR REPLICATING A PRESSURE CONTROL VALVE WITH ADJUSTABLE RESPONSE CHARACTERISTIC - A pressure control valve replication method in a gas turbine can include controlling a fuel flow to a combustion system through a gas control valve, wherein the fuel flow experiences fuel flow changes, adjusting the fuel flow through the gas control valve in response to fuel flow changes in the gas turbine and in response to pressure fluctuations in the gas turbine fuel, replicating a speed ratio valve to control pressure of the fuel flow to the gas control valve.
|ATOMIZING DESUPERHEATER SHUTOFF APPARATUS AND METHOD - The present invention is directed to a desuperheater spraying valve assembly. More particularly, the invention provides a new and improved valve assembly, whereby cooling liquid may be controllably injected into a gas or a liquid stream, typically steam, to selectively maintain the gas or liquid at a predetermined temperature level. In a possible embodiment of the present invention, a class V valve assembly is disclosed. It comprises an actuator coupled to a plug with a valve seat in the proximity of said plug. The plug is affixed to an actuator rod which transverses the body of the valve assembly. A spray tube may be affixed to said valve seat and at least one spray nozzle is affixed to a to the spray tube. The plug and said valve seat are conical in shape as to when said plug is inserted into said valve, they form a seal.
|METHOD FOR WATER HAMMERLESS OPENING OF FLUID PASSAGE, AND METHOD FOR SUPPLYING CHEMICAL SOLUTIONS AND DEVICE FOR WATER HAMMERLESS OPENING FOR WHICH THE METHOD IS USED - The water hammerless opening device comprises an actuator operating type valve installed on the fluid passage, an electro-pneumatic conversion device to supply the 2-step actuator operating pressure Pa to the afore-mentioned actuator operating type valve, a vibration sensor removably fixed to the pipe passage on the upstream side of the actuator operating type valve, and a tuning box to which the vibration detecting signal Pr detected by the vibration sensor is inputted, through which the control signal Sc to control the step operating pressure Ps′ of the afore-mentioned 2-step actuator operating pressure Pa is outputted to the electro-pneumatic conversion device, and with which the 2-step actuator operating pressure Pa, of the step operating pressure Ps′ which makes the vibration detecting signal Pr nearly zero, is outputted from the electro-pneumatic conversion by adjusting the control signal Sc.
|Booster for a Digital Hydraulic Controller and Method for Using a Booster in Connection with a Digital Hydraulic Controller - A booster for a digital hydraulic controller which has at least one digital valve (
|Substrate processing systems and related methods - A system for processing one or more substrates according to the present invention includes a diversion valve that can deliver two or more process fluids to a dispensing device through a common line/pipe. The present invention also includes related methods.
|Automate fluid flow control system - An automate fluid flow control system includes a valve member for being sealedly disposed within a fluid chamber to seal a flow of fluid flowing from a fluid inlet to a fluid outlet, a relief valve having a fluid passage extended along the valve member for communicating the fluid chamber with the fluid outlet and including a valve stopper sitting on a top opening of the fluid passage to sealedly close the fluid passage, and a powering assembly including an actuator to move the relief valve between a closed position that the valve stopper is sealedly retained to close the fluid passage and an opened position that the actuator drives the valve stopper to unseal the fluid passage for releasing a pressure within the water chamber to allow the fluid passing to the fluid outlet.
|Automatic flush actuation apparatus - An automatic flush actuation apparatus, which is incorporated with a flushing system having a water inlet, a water outlet, and a water chamber communicating therebetween, that includes a valve member being moved by a flush lever for releasing the water pressure within the water chamber to allow the water passing from the water inlet to the water outlet, and a sensor-operated powering assembly including a relief valve provided at the valve member for controlling the water flowing to the water outlet and an actuator arranged in such a manner that while sensing a presence of a user of the flushing system, the actuator is driven to move the relief valve to an opened position for releasing the water pressure within the water chamber to allow the water passing to said water outlet.
|Dual valve method and apparatus for limiting toilet water flow - A dual valve assembly for limiting flow into a toilet tank comprises a fill valve, such as a float valve or ball cock valve, and a piston valve positioned between a water supply line and the fill valve. The piston valve operates independently of the fill valve, and is designed to shut off water flow after an approximate flow volume or time. The dual valve assembly may be provided in a single housing replacement part. The dual valve assembly may be provided as an adapter kit comprising a housing and piston valve which is installed in a toilet tank to accept a fill valve.
|COMPRESSOR TIP GAP FLOW CONTROL USING PLASMA ACTUATORS - A plasma generator for delaying the onset of rotation stall by tip gap flow control in, for example, an axial flow compressor is disclosed. The tip gap flow control system includes a housing surrounding a rotor of blades and having an inner wall. At least one plasma generating device is coupled to the inner wall of the housing and circumscribes at least a portion of the rotor of blades. A power supply is electrically coupled to the plasma generating device such that when the power supply energizes the plasma generating device, the axial momentum of a fluid flow between the inner wall of the housing and the tips of the rotor of blades in increased in the direction of the fluid flow.
|INSTANT HOT WATER DELIVERY SYSTEM - An instant hot water delivery system for efficiently heating water when necessary to provide instant hot water to a faucet. The instant hot water delivery system generally includes a water heater including an inlet and an outlet, a cold water supply line introducing cold water into the inlet, a hot water supply line connecting the outlet to a faucet and a recirculation line connected to the hot water supply downstream of the outlet and the cold water supply line upstream of the inlet. The recirculation line forms a first recirculation loop for water within the water heater to flow during a first water heating process. A recirculation pump is connected to the cold water supply line between the recirculation line and the inlet for circulating the water during the water heating process. In one embodiment, the control unit is used to retrofit an existing gas or electric water heater.
|DEVICES AND METHODS FOR PROGRAMMABLE MICROSCALE MANIPULATION OF FLUIDS - The present invention is directed generally to devices and methods for controlling fluid flow in meso-scale fluidic components in a programmable manner. Specifically, the present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for placing two microfluidic components in fluid communication at an arbitrary position and time, both of which are externally defined. The inventive apparatus uses electromagnetic radiation to perforate a material layer having selected adsorptive properties. The perforation of the material layer allows the fluid communication between microfluidic components. Other aspects of this invention include an apparatus and method to perform volumetric quantitation of fluids, an apparatus to program arbitrary connections between a set of input capillaries and a set of output capillaries, and a method to transport fluid in centripetal device from a larger to a smaller radius. In addition, the present invention also is directed to a method to determine the radial and polar position of a pickup in the reference frame of a rotating device.
|GAS LINE LEAKAGE MONITOR FOR BEVERAGE DISPENSING SYSTEM PREVENTING UNINTENDED ENVIRONMENTAL DISCHARGE - A gas line leakage monitor for beverage dispensing system is configured to prevent unintended environmental discharge of a beverage dispensing gas such as CO2. The monitor includes a gas inlet coupled to the source of gas and a gas outlet coupled to the dispensing portions of the system. The monitor includes a flow sensor detecting when gas is flowing through the monitor. The monitor includes a timer coupled to the flow sensor and tracking the amount of time that the flow sensor detects at least each episode of un-interrupted flow of gas through the monitor. The monitor includes a shut-off valve coupled to the timer for stopping the flow of gas through the monitor and to the system's dispensing portions when the timer indicates an episode of un-interrupted gas flow through the monitor meets a pre-set threshold. The monitor includes a manual reset for opening the shut-off valve.
|Mass Flow Rate Control System - A dosage system for feeding a fluid (A) to a static mixer (
|METHOD FOR ACOUSTICALLY LOCALIZING LEAKS IN PIPING SYSTEMS - Method for acoustically locating leaks in underground or aboveground piping systems, in which at least two noise data loggers receiving the leak noise and being arranged in mutual distance from one another are brought in physical contact with the piping system to be examined and measure simultaneously the noise level (dB) and the frequency of a leak, whereas both measured values of frequency and noise level are combined in a single value (ESA), whereas the ESA value is calculated from the decimal logarithm of the frequency of the leak noise multiplied with the logarithmic level value of the leak noise multiplied with a constant factor.
|Control System And Method For A Fuel Processor - The mass flow rate of a first reactant stream supplied to a fuel processor is controlled based on a combined feed-forward and feedback control regime. The method is particularly applicable for actively controlling the fuel supply to a fuel processor in a system comprising a combustion engine, in which the fuel processor is fluidly connected to receive at least a portion of an engine exhaust stream from the engine. In embodiments of the system and method, the supply of fuel is controlled based on three mass flow factors.
|Fluid elements - Fluid composition functions conforming globose quanta least mass, highest elevation least height least length continuous compact composite fluid mass free-surfaces, a rotations composite quanta mass energy perimeter globose and conduit Universe least height surfaces most conserve energy; conforming embodiments quintessential core, natural disposition, genomes, mass energy highest conserving compact composites with completely matched complete complements embody forms; an inflow Inlet, a globose perimeters enclosure and an outlet embodied Sets or drain traps quanta quantum mass PP lengths least sum, in part an upper retention submerged a transition region, and a globose Inlet lower end, an End 2, or a globose-inverse outlet spout lower end, a First End, and respective undersurfaces;
|LOW SHEAR PUMPS FOR USE WITH BIOREACTORS - Embodiments of a pump system include a bioreactor containing a media with live algae cultures, a gas vent line, a pressurized gas line, a valve system in fluid communication with the gas vent line and the pressurized gas line, a fluid outlet, and a pump chamber in fluid communication with the bioreactor, the valve system, and the fluid outlet. According to such embodiments, the valve system is configured to switch fluid communication with the pump chamber between the gas vent line and the pressurized gas line, and a lowest level of the pump chamber is lower than a highest level of the bioreactor. Such embodiments may also include a first valve configured to permit one-way flow from the bioreactor to the pump chamber, and a second valve configured to permit one-way flow from the pump chamber through the fluid outlet.
|GAS METERING DEVICE FOR A HOME SODA MACHINE - A home soda machine includes a cylinder of gas suitable for carbonation, an attachment mechanism to attach a bottle of water, a valve opening mechanism to open a gas release valve on the gas cylinder and introduce the gas to the bottle of water, a gas release sensor to sense at least events indicating the opening and closing of the gas release valve, and an indirect gas meter to at least determine an amount of the gas released from the cylinder based at least on a cumulative length of time the gas release valve was open as per data received from the gas release sensor.
|APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR FILLING A BATHTUB - An apparatus for filling a bathtub (
|Instant Hot Water Delivery System - An instant hot water delivery system for efficiently heating water when necessary to provide instant hot water to a faucet. The instant hot water delivery system generally includes a water heater including an inlet and an outlet, a cold water supply line introducing cold water into the inlet, a hot water supply line connecting the outlet to a faucet and a recirculation line connected to the hot water supply downstream of the outlet and the cold water supply line upstream of the inlet. The recirculation line forms a first recirculation loop for water within the water heater to flow during a first water heating process. A recirculation pump is connected to the cold water supply line between the local recirculation line and the inlet for circulating the water during the water heating process.
|Frozen/chilled fluid for pipelines and for storage facilities - Methods of, and apparatus for, storing and transporting a hazardous fluid, such as a combustible fuel, include methods and means, respectively, for:
|FLUID CONTROL APPARATUS - A method and apparatus for controlling the flow of a fluid past a device having a flow adjusting device comprising transmitting a temperature to a thermally reactive material having a coefficient of thermal expansion which produces a volume change in the thermally reactive material in response to a change in the temperature. The thermally reactive material is enclosed within a container having a movable portion which is moved in response to the volume change of the thermally reactive material and the movement of the movable portion is applied to actuate the flow adjusting device. The flow adjusting device may comprise a fluid propulsion device such as a fan or pump or a throttling device such as a throttling, check, or shuttle valve.
|AIR CONDITIONING CONTROLLING DEVICE AND METHOD - An air conditioning controller includes a supply air temperature controller controlling a temperature of supply air provided to an air conditioner so a supply air temperature measurement value matches a supply air temperature setting value; a total air volume device measuring/calculating a total supply air volume value that is the total of the air volumes to each individual variable air volume unit; a supply air volume controller controlling an air volume of supply air to the air conditioner, depending on the total air volume value; an air volume insufficiency evaluator evaluating if the air volume is insufficient by comparing the total air volume value to a total air volume lower limit value; and a supply air temperature setter changing the supply air temperature setting value in a direction that the variable air volume unit increase the air volume, when there is an evaluation that the air volume is insufficient.
|ROTATING DISC VALVE - Systems and methods are provided facilitating control of material flow. A valve comprises a rotating disc, wherein the rotating disc further comprises at least one hole and one closure surface to facilitate opening and closing a material flow path. In an open state a hole is positioned in the flow path, in a closed state a closure surface is placed in the flow path. Further, sacrificial components are included in the valve to reduce the effects of wear. Furthermore, wear of the sacrificial components can be determined without having to disassemble the valve.
|Forms - Globose-conduits, as one-form least Sets, contain, retain, detain transport mass energy figures illustrated inventions, principles, methodologies, that is self-conserving, preserving mass energy quintessential, core, natural disposition, classic form. Globose-conduits, as unique origin one-form, evolve devolve; rotate, mutate, transpose, transfer to contain, retain, detain and transport highest conserving mass energy modes perfection beyond human skill. Flush Apparatus assemblies adeptly fit into Sets' mass energy highest conserving. Globose-conduit universe extends from microbes submicroscopic atomic subatomic to cosmos makeup retained detained nonhomogeneous, nonuniform, nonsteady, conforming, least energy-mode exchanges quintessential, core, natural disposition. By parallelism analogy of energy-forms globose-conduits are classic perimeters alongside spherical globose with parallelism to homogeneous mass energy round conductors.
|REAL-TIME CONTROL OF EXHAUST FLOW - A flow control system for controlling exhaust flow can measure effluent escaping from the exhaust hood at a given flow rate. An interferometric detector can measure fluctuations in fluid properties external to and/or in the vicinity of the exhaust hood. The flow control system may vary a flow rate of the exhaust hood and/or control exhaust hood structures responsive to the measurements to contain the effluent while minimizing the exhaust of air from the occupied space.
|ARRANGEMENT OF MULTIPLE PUMPS FOR DELIVERY OF PROCESS MATERIALS - A method and apparatus for delivering process materials in a bulk delivery system includes a plurality of pumps arranged in series along a material supply line, wherein the capacity of each pump is such that less than all of the pumps operating simultaneously can provide a desired level of system performance for a given application. In at least one preferred embodiment, a plurality of pumps include three pumps are arranged in series. Preferred embodiments provide several benefits over a parallel arrangement of two larger pumps including, in the case of a single pump failure, that the remaining pumps are signaled to increase speed to restore system performance to restore supply line pressure with less perturbation than that realized in a two-pump, parallel arranged system. Methods are also provided herein for determining which of the three pumps is a failed pump in such a case.
|DEVICE INCLUDING MOVEABLE PORTION FOR CONTROLLING FLUID - A device and a method of controlling fluid flow are provided. The method includes providing a moving fluid including a fluid flow characteristic; providing a fluid control device including a fluid control surface, a portion of the fluid control surface being moveable; causing the fluid to contact the fluid control surface of the fluid control device; and causing the fluid to interact with the fluid control surface of the fluid control device by moving the moveable portion of the fluid control surface while the fluid is in contact with the fluid control surface such that the fluid flow characteristic of the fluid after interacting with the fluid control surface of the fluid control device is different from the fluid flow characteristic of the fluid before interaction with the fluid control surface of the fluid control device depending on the position of the moveable portion of the fluid control surface.
|REDUCING FOAM FORMATION - An apparatus for reducing foam formation of a developer liquid (
|SLURRY SYSTEM FOR SEMICONDUCTOR FABRICATION - A slurry feed system suitable for chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) processes in a semiconductor fabrication facility and related method. The slurry feed system includes a valve manifold box having a discharge piping header fluidly connected to at least one CMP station and a first slurry supply train. The first slurry supply train may include a slurry mixing tank, day tank, and at least two slurry feed pumps arranged in series pumping relationship. The first slurry supply train defines a first slurry piping loop. In one embodiment, a second slurry supply train defining a second slurry piping loop is provided. The valve manifold box is operable to supply slurry from either or both of the first and second slurry piping loops to the CMP station.
|MANIPULATION OF FLUIDS, FLUID COMPONENTS AND REACTIONS IN MICROFLUIDIC SYSTEMS - Microfluidic structures and methods for manipulating fluids, fluid components, and reactions are provided. In one aspect, such structures and methods can allow production of droplets of a precise volume, which can be stored/maintained at precise regions of the device. In another aspect, microfluidic structures and methods described herein are designed for containing and positioning components in an arrangement such that the components can be manipulated and then tracked even after manipulation. For example, cells may be constrained in an arrangement in microfluidic structures described herein to facilitate tracking during their growth and/or after they multiply.
|Method and Apparatus for Transporting a Particulate Material - Fluidizing transport apparatus comprises a hopper, a pressure vessel and a valve element which controls a port between the hopper and the vessel. The valve element is retained closed against the port under pressure within the vessel. A fluidizing nozzle receives transport fluid, such as water from a fluid line. Water supplied through the fluid line thus fluidizes solids in the vessel and raises the pressure to maintain the valve element in the closed position. The fluidized solids material is then supplied to a transport pipeline from the vessel. Solids material loaded into the hopper depress the valve element when pressure within the vessel is relieved, so allowing a fresh charge of the solids material to enter the vessel for a subsequent cycle. The position of the valve element within the vessel is influenced by a float which responds to the water level within the hopper.
|METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT IN MILKING SYSTEM - A method and arrangement for monitoring the supply of cleaning liquid from a cleaning line to a milking system, where the milking system includes at least two milking stations and milk conduits, and the cleaning line includes supply conduits connectable to the milk conduits at the milking stations and arranged to apportion cleaning liquid to the milking stations, so that cleaning liquid flows through the milking stations. The method includes measuring a value of the flow of the cleaning liquid through the respective milking stations by a respective flow sensor and transferring the values of the measured flows to a control unit. The arrangement includes a first control unit and flow sensors and a respective flow sensor is adapted to measure a value of the flows of cleaning liquid through a respective milking station, and provide the values to the control unit.
|IMPLEMENTATION OF MICROFLUIDIC COMPONENTS IN A MICROFLUIDIC SYSTEM - A system and method for integrating microfluidic components in a microfluidic system enables the microfluidic system to perform a selected microfluidic function. A capping module includes a microfluidic element for performing a microfluidic function. The capping module is stacked on a microfluidic substrate having microfluidic plumbing to incorporate the microfluidic function into the system. An infusion pump for delivering a fluid from a fluid source may be integrated in a microfluidic chip using a capping module having pumping components formed therein.
|Device Including A Dissolvable Structure For Flow Control - A diagnostic device is provided that includes a plurality of retainment regions, with the retainment regions that are separated by at least one dissolvable barrier. The retainment regions can be interconnected through at least one fluid processing passageway. A retainment region can include a container such as a retainment region, well, chamber, or other receptacle, or a retainment region such as a surface on which the material is retained. The retainment regions can include a reaction retainment region, one or more reagent retainment regions, each containing unreacted reagents, and a sample retainment region. A pressure-actuated valve can be positioned in each fluid processing passageway interconnecting the one or more reagent retainment regions with the respective intermediate retainment regions interposed between each of the one or more reagent retainment regions and the reaction retainment region. The dissolvable barrier can be a fluid flow modulator in the at least one fluid processing passageway.
|Method For Monitoring The Composition Of Flue Gas Resulting From A Thermal Process - The composition of flue gas generated in a thermal process, especially in the combustion of bio fuel or refuse-derived fuel, is monitored by measuring the quantity of particles belonging to certain size categories in at least one point along the flow path of the flue gas. Such particle size categories are chosen as objects of the measurement, in which the particles are known to consist mainly of alkali chlorides.
|Water supply system and method - A system for supplying hot and cold water to an apartment/house. Recycling water from the hot into the cold water pipe comprises a faucet having adjustable first and second valves installed in the paths to hot and cold water inlets and third valve in the path to outlet. The valves are electrically controlled; circulating pump installed in the cold water pipe. When the first and second valves of at least one faucet are open and the third valve closed, activating the circulating pump will cause water from the hot water pipe to flow through the faucet to the cold water pipe; c. controller means for activating the three valves and the circulating pump in one of two modes of operation: in a first (circulation) mode, water circulation is accomplished by opening the first and second valves and closing the third valve.
|OPTIMIZED DEFROSTING REGULATION OF PARALLEL ARRANGED FRESH AIR OUTLETS OF AIR CONDITIONERS - An arrangement is provided for de-icing pipeline connections of an aircraft, which are connected to all fresh air outlets of an air conditioner, whose construction includes, but is not limited to the functions of multiple turbines and heat exchangers, having a first pipeline, which is connected to a first turbine, and a second pipeline, which is connected to a second turbine, the two pipelines, which are each connected downstream from the two turbines and to which process air is fed at the turbine outlets, being connected at the pipe ends and being continued using a third pipeline. The arrangement is characterized in that a first hot air source is fed hot fresh air from a bleed air system of the aircraft and is connected at its outlet to a fourth pipeline, into which temperature-reduced fresh air is fed from the hot air source. The fourth pipeline is connected at its pipe end to two further valve-regulated pipelines, of which a fifth or a sixth pipeline is connected to the first or the second pipeline, and through which temperature-reduced fresh air is transported and fed valve-regulated to the first and/or second pipeline.
|Steam exhaust assembly - There is provided an apparatus for condensing and removing exhaust steam from sterilization equipment. The apparatus comprises a primary exhaust vessel and condensing means which accepts and condenses exhaust steam from sterilization equipment. A secondary exhaust vessel, connected to the primary exhaust vessel, provides for further condensing and elimination of exhaust steam. The apparatus may include a drain system for disposing of condensate from the secondary exhaust vessel.
|METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING FLUCTUATIONS IN MULTIPHASE FLOW PRODUCTION LINES - Methods and apparatus for controlling the effects of slug flow in a flow line installation from a subterranean well to a production facility are described using in the flow line a flow conditioning unit, such as a flow booster and a flow choke, and a measuring device for measuring one or more parameter determined to be the most significant installation design or flow parameters correlated with the slug volume, connected to a control unit receiving input from the measuring device and using a relationship between slug volume and the one or more most significant parameters to control the flow conditioning unit.
|METHOD FOR CONTROLLING WATER SUPPLY AMOUNT AND REFRIGERATOR USING THE SAME - A method for controlling a water supply amount and a refrigerator using the same are disclosed. The method includes receiving information regarding a water supply amount selected by a user, counting a duration after starting water supply, and checking whether an error in a water supply amount measurement unit exists. When the water supply amount measurement unit is normal, an actual water supply amount is determined based on a signal from the water supply amount measurement unit, and, when a fault exists, a water supply amount is determined based on correlation between a stored water supply amount for normal operation and a water supply duration. Water supply is stopped when the selected water supply amount and the determined water supply amount are equal. When the water supply amount measurement unit is normal, the signal from the water supply amount measurement unit and information regarding a water supply duration are stored.
|Nanojet Spouting Method and Nanojet Mechanism - A liquid is occluded in a predetermined carbon nanotube and then heated above a liquid-gas phase transition temperature to spout from the carbon nanotube.
|SYSTEM AND METHODS TO CONTROL A PROCESS - A system comprising a system comprising a valve; a controller adapted to actuate the valve; a pressurized source connected to the valve; a hose and nozzle assembly connected to the pressurized source through the valve; and a switch connected to the nozzle assembly; wherein a flow from the pressurized source to the nozzle may be interrupted by the valve and by the nozzle.
|HYDROPHOBIC VALVE - The present invention relates to a hydrophobic valve for liquids having an appreciable surface tension comprising magnetic particles, said device comprising at least two planar solid substrates with a functionalized surface each, wherein at least a first solid substrate has a patterned surface comprising at least two hydrophilic areas separated from one another by at least one hydrophobic area, wherein the said two planar substrates are disposed with a distance to one another in a sandwiched, parallel fashion, in such way that said functionalized surfaces are facing one another, said valve further comprising a magnetic actuator.
|THICKENER FLOCCUANT CONTROL BY IN-SITU AGGREGATE SIZE ANALYSIS - A system for performing in-situ aggregate size analysis in a feedwell assembly, which includes a feedwell assembly, which receives an influent feed stream from at least one feed pipe, and at least one flocculant feed pipe within the feed stream or feedwell assembly, which delivers a flocculant to the feed stream. An in-situ device provides images of flocculated particles within the feedwell assembly to an image analysis software application. The image analysis software application receives the images of the flocculated particles within the feedwell assembly and provides for size measurement and averaging for dosage control of the flocculant added to the influent feed stream within the feedwell assembly.
|METHOD OF CONTROLLING GAS VALVE OF DRYER - Disclosed herein is a method of controlling a gas valve of a dryer which controls the amount of gas supplied into a gas combustor. The method includes detecting the temperature of hot air supplied into a drum, detecting the temperature of the hot air discharged outside the drum, and controlling a gas valve of a gas combustor according to the temperature of the hot air supplied into the drum and the temperature of the hot air discharged outside the drum.
|METHOD OF PROCESSING FLUID FROM A WELL - There is described a method of processing fluid from a well. In an embodiment, a fluid processing system is operable to process fluids from a well in dependence on a plurality of controllable system parameters. The parameters are adjusted between respective first and second parameter values, and the first values define a first operational configuration and the second values defining a second, different operational configuration. The adjustment is carried out such that the system is balanced whilst adjusting the parameters. This may be done by adjusting the value of each parameter simultaneously along linear curves from a first initial value to a second end value. In the second configuration, activation or deactivation of a compressor (
|Scissor baffles for fuel gas conditioning system - A feed gas conditioner.
|PASSIVE PREPROGRAMMED LOGIC SYSTEMS USING KNOTTED/STRTCHABLE YARNS and THEIR USE FOR MAKING MICROFLUIDIC PLATFORMS - We describe various methods for making preprogrammed logic systems using knotted yarns. We show that the topology of the knots controls the mixing ratio of the reagents coming into the knots, and thus the ratio can be adjusted by choosing a specific knot. A serial dilutor is built by knotting multiple yarns into a web of well defined dimension. In addition stretchable yarn can be used to control the capillary pressure and hence the flow rate of the liquid, by pulling the yarn. Furthermore, we demonstrate the possibility of patterning impermeable/hydrophobic regions in to the yarn. Finally, we propose that biodegradable yarns can be used into these platforms to build various multi/single cellular scaffolds.
|Sealing System Assembly For High Pressure Fluid Handling Devices - A process fluid handling device is provided in an electrochemical cell system having a sealing system assembly between a process fluid compartment and a drive compartment of the fluid handling device. The sealing system comprises a double seal configuration forming an interconnection compartment which is supplied with barrier fluid. The present invention provides isolation of pressurized process fluids from the drive compartment.
|Drill String Valve and Method - Method and drill string valve for closing a conduit through which a high pressure fluid flows. The drill string valve includes an elongated housing having an inside cavity, a seal element attached to a first end of the elongated housing, the seal element being disposed within the inside cavity such that a flow of liquid through the inside cavity from the first end to a second end of the elongated housing is allowed, a sliding valve disposed within the inside cavity and configured to slide to and from the seal element along the axis such that when the sliding valve contacts the seal element the flow of liquid is suppressed, a biasing cartridge disposed within the inside cavity, between the seal element and the second end of the elongated housing, and configured to apply a first force on the sliding valve such that the sliding valve is contacting the seal element, and a loading mechanism disposed within the inside cavity, between the biasing cartridge and the second end of the elongated housing, and configured to apply a second force on the biasing cartridge.
|MASS FLOW CONTROLLER WITH ENHANCED OPERATING RANGE - A mass flow controller among other embodiments and method is described. The mass flow controller including a thermal mass flow sensor including at least two sensing elements coupled to a sensor tube of the mass flow controller, the thermal mass flow sensor being designed to provide a first signal indicative of flow of a gas within a first flow-rate-range and a second signal indicative of flow of the gas within a second flow-rate-range; and a control portion figured to control a valve position of the mass flow controller responsive to the first signal when the flow of the gas is within the first flow-rate-range and control the valve position of the mass flow controller responsive to the second signal when the flow of the gas is within a second flow-rate-range.
|Method for operating a metering valve and device for performing the method - A method for operating a metering valve and a device for performing the method, providing for diagnosis of the metering valve which defines a flow rate of a reagent to be introduced into an exhaust gas area of an internal combustion engine. The diagnosis is performed on the basis of an analysis of a measure for the flow rate during a diagnosis time. According to a first embodiment, after a diagnosis start signal has occurred with the metering valve closed, the reagent is brought to a predefined diagnosis starting pressure via a pump; the metering valve is then set at a predefined flow rate and the pressure difference occurring during the diagnosis time is analyzed. According to another embodiment, the amount of reagent delivered by the metering valve during the diagnosis time into a graduated beaker is analyzed.
|SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DELIVERING FUEL TO AN AIRCRAFT FROM A VEHICLE - A fueling control system for providing fuel from a vehicle to an aircraft, and a method of providing fuel from a fuel vehicle to an aircraft are disclosed herein. The fueling control system includes a pressure transducer for sensing back pressure in a fluid path to a fuel tank of an aircraft, and a digital controller coupled to the pressure transducer for receiving the back pressure in the fluid path and controlling fuel flow in the fluid path to the aircraft. The method includes the steps of sensing back pressure in a fluid path from the aircraft; receiving the sensed back pressure by a digital controller; and controlling fuel flow to the aircraft in the fluid path based on the sensed back pressure.
|Microfluidic Bubble Logic Devices and Methods - A method for implementing a logic operation employs an all fluid-based no-moving part micro-mechanical logic family of microfluidic bubble logic devices that are constructed from complex sequences of microfluidic channels, microfluidic bubble modulators for programming the devices, and microfluidic droplet/bubble memory elements for chemical storage and retrieval. The input is a sequence of bubbles/droplets encoding information, with the output being another sequence of bubbles/droplets. For performing a set of reactions/tasks, the modulators program the device by producing a precisely timed sequence of bubbles/droplets, resulting in a cascade of logic operations within the microfluidic channel sequence, utilizing the generated bubbles as a control. The devices are based on the principle of minimum energy interfaces formed between the two fluid phases enclosed inside precise channel geometries. Various devices, including logic gates, non-volatile bistable memory, shift registers, multiplexers, and ring oscillators have been designed and fabricated.
|SYSTEM FOR WAFER MANUFACTURE - The subject matter discloses a system for regenerating and treating slurry in a semiconductors manufacturing environment, the system comprising a removing module for removing the slurry from the manufacturing environment a receiving module for receiving the slurry and storing it. The system also comprises an addition unit for adding chemical materials to the slurry received by the receiving module, thus creating a qualified regenerated slurry and a pipe for maneuvering the slurry containing the added chemical materials to the manufacturing to environment for another use.
|APPARATUS, A CONTROL CIRCUIT AND A METHOD FOR PRODUCING PRESSURE AND VOLUME FLOW - An apparatus comprising: a series of units, each being capable of producing a volume flow; a first channel for supplying hydraulic fluid into the apparatus; a second channel for supplying hydraulic fluid from the apparatus; a first series of valves comprising at least one controlled valve for each unit; a third channel for supplying hydraulic fluid from the apparatus; and several controlled auxiliary valves, each being provided for one unit. The control circuit also comprises: at least one actuator for converting hydraulic energy to mechanical energy, wherein said actuator is at least connected to either the second channel or the third channel; and a control device configured to synchronize the operation of the valves of the first series of valves and said auxiliary valves with the operation of said units, and to control the actuator by means of pressure and volume flow. In the method, the operation of the first series of valves and said auxiliary valves is synchronized with the operation of said units, and controlling the pressure and the volume flow in a predetermined manner, for controlling one or more actuators by means of a control device.
|Flow control device and flow control method - A water flow control device (
|PERSUASIVE ENVIRONMENTAL RECOVERY SYSTEM - A sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device eliminates raw sewage spills by preventing pressure buildup in sewer drains. One or more sewage level sensors may be coupled to an alarm and/or to an automatic water main shut-off valve. The level sensor may detect excess fluid levels in a sewer lateral line. The sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device may include a joggle which is a component of a non-mechanical backflow prevention device. The level sensor may detect fluid levels in the lower portion of the joggle and activate the automatic water main shut-off valve and/or the alarm. The sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device may include at least one two-way, in-line cleanout tube which may extend vertically upwardly from the joggle. The level sensor may be mounted in the vertical cleanout tube. The components may be contained within a seamless polyethylene vault for ease of installation and protection against root intrusion.
|THERMALLY OPERATED VALVE - A valve has a housing including a valve seat. A valve pin is supported by a housing through a support shell. The support shell and the valve pin have distinct coefficients of thermal expansion such that when exposed to a temperature change, movement of the support shell moves differently than the pin. In this way, the valve pin can be caused to move toward and away from the valve seat to allow operation of the valve.
|CHECK VALVE - In one aspect of the present invention, it is contemplated that a valve includes a passage. A first sealing element is biased to restrict flow of a fluid in a first direction through the passage when an upstream volumetric flow rate of the fluid in the first direction is less than a first predetermined threshold. A second sealing element is biased to unrestrict flow of the fluid to a baseline unrestricted flow rate in a second direction through the passage when an upstream volumetric flow rate of the fluid in the second direction is less than a second predetermined threshold.
|Flow Control - Apparatus for controlling the flow of fluids through a sample channel comprises:
|FLOW CONTROL IN MICROFLUIDIC SYSTEMS - Microfluidic systems and methods including those that provide control of fluid flow are provided. Such systems and methods can be used, for example, to control pressure-driven flow based on the influence of channel geometry and the viscosity of one or more fluids inside the system.
|Push Button Regulator Device with Sealing Element to Facilitate Easy Connection with Other Devices - A regulator device includes a first valve member and a second valve member disposed within a housing of the device. The first valve member regulates the pressure of fluid exiting the device, and the second valve member is biased to a closed position and is opened by manipulation of an actuator. A sealing element is connected at the housing outlet and has a transverse cross-sectional dimension that decreases from an inlet of the sealing element to an outlet of the sealing element. In addition, a guard is provided that extends around a periphery of the actuator and includes a cut-out section to permit easy access to the actuator during use of the device.
|Viscosity Feedback Temperature Control System - The viscosity feedback temperature control system provides a means for controlling the viscosity of a process fluid about a user-defined setpoint by varying the temperature of the fluid within a user-defined range to take advantage of the viscosity versus temperature characteristics inherent in all fluids.
|AUTOMATIC AIR VENT FOR FIRE SUPPRESSION WET PIPE SYSTEM AND METHOD OF VENTING A FIRE SUPPRESSION WET PIPE SYSTEM - A fire suppression wet pipe system air vent assembly and method of venting air from a fire suppression wet pipe system includes providing a primary air vent valve having an inlet and an outlet. The primary air vent inlet is adapted to be connected with a fire suppression wet pipe system and is configured to vent air, but not water, from its outlet. A secondary air vent valve having an inlet and an outlet is provided. The secondary air vent valve is configured to vent air, but not water, from its outlet. A fluid conduit connects the primary air vent valve outlet with the secondary air vent valve inlet. The second air vent valve provides failsafe air venting upon the failure of the primary air vent valve. A fluid indicator may be provided that indicates the presence of fluid in the conduit. The presence of an appreciable amount of fluid in the conduit is an indication of likely failure of the primary air vent valve.
|METHOD OF REPLACING LIQUID OF CIRCULATION LINE IN SUBSTRATE LIQUID PROCESSING APPARATUS OF SINGLE-WAFER TYPE - The present invention provides a method of replacing a liquid of a circulation line in a substrate liquid processing apparatus of a single-wafer type, which can replace the liquid more efficiently, by relating the replacing method with a process-liquid replenishing method. A substrate liquid processing apparatus of a single-wafer type includes: a circulation line through which a process liquid is circulated; a tank disposed in the circulation line; a liquid level sensor disposed in the tank; a liquid replenish part configured to replenish the tank with a new process liquid, based on an output of the liquid level sensor; and a liquid-replacement control part configured to stop the operation of the liquid replenish part based on a predetermined replenish stop condition that is set cooperatively with a predetermined liquid disposal condition, and to discard all the process liquid in the tank based on the predetermined liquid disposal condition.
|CONTROLLED FORMATION OF HYDRATES - The invention relates to a method for reducing or avoiding deposition of a hydrocarbon hydrate on a surface that is in contact with a hydrocarbon flow which contains water, the method comprising controlling the nucleation of dry hydrocarbon hydrate crystals in the flow. The invention further relates to a method for transporting a hydrocarbon flow which contains a hydrocarbon hydrate and to a method for preparing a dry hydrocarbon hydrate.
|Valves and Methods for Regulating the Flow Rate of a Liquid to a Fixture - Embodiments of valves permit liquids such as water to flow therethrough at a relatively high flow rate when the temperature of the water is below a predetermined level. The valves reduce the flow rate when the temperature of the water is at or above the predetermined level. The valves can thus facilitate purging of cold water from the hot-water supply piping upstream of the valves at a relatively fast rate, while reducing the flow rate of the water once the water reaching the valves has warmed to a comfortable level.
|Mass Flow Controller Hysteresis Compensation System & Method - A method of characterizing hysteresis as a function of a device output comprising, applying an input signal across a first input signal range to a device, the input signal inducing a device function having a first output with a first output value range dependent upon the first input signal range. The input signal is further applied across a second input signal range to the device, the input signal inducing the device function to have a second output with a second output value range dependent upon (i) the second input signal range and (ii) device hysteresis. A difference between the second input signal range and the first input signal range is then measured across the first and second output value ranges. A method of operating a mass flow controller valve and a mass flow controller are also contemplated.
|AIR PURGE COLLAR - An air purge apparatus and method is presented to protect an imaging system from contamination by particulate matter and other substances in the ambient environment. The apparatus is adapted to be placed adjacent to a viewing window, lens or optics of an imaging system and to provide a protective flow of air. The apparatus includes a curved surface to direct air from a first plenum toward an imaging path in front of the apparatus. The apparatus also includes one or more openings nearer the lens to direct air from a second plenum into the imaging path. The air from the first plenum entrains air from the second plenum and ambient air to create a fluid stream away from the viewing window, lens, or optics and may form a fluid barrier to reduce contamination of a volume of air in the imaging path of the imaging sensor.
|Microfluidic system and method for manufacturing the same - A microfluidic system is disclosed. The microfluidic system comprises a microchannel having in fluid communication with a fluid inlet for receiving a first fluid. The microfluidic system can further comprise a piezoelectric actuator which controls the flow of the first fluid in the microchannel by selectively applying external pressure on the wall of the microchannel.
|SANITARY VALVE EQUIPMENT - The invention proposes a sanitary valve device in which a temperature limiting valve is used to protect a user from water that is too cold. The valve device is designed such that when a water outlet, for example a shower, is switched on, the water is first passed through a first water duct containing the temperature limiting valve, in which duct the temperature limiting valve permits the passage of water below a limit temperature, but blocks it off when above the limit temperature. The fact that either no water or a heavily reduced quantity of water is discharged from the outlet of the sanitary fitting indicates to the user that the cold water has flowed away. He can now operate the changeover valve to directly draw hot water, the temperature limiting valve now being switched off.
|METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR A WIDE CONDUCTANCE KIT - An apparatus for controlling gas flow conductance in a plasma processing chamber being configured with an upper electrode disposed opposite a lower electrode adapted to support a substrate is provided. The apparatus includes a ground ring configured to include a first set of radial slots formed therein. The apparatus also includes a confinement ring arrangement which includes at least a first set of collapsible confinement rings and a second set of collapsible confinement rings which is configured to movably couple to the first set of collapsible confinement rings. The apparatus further includes a mechanism configured at least to collapse and to expand the first set of collapsible confinement rings and the second set of collapsible confinement rings to control gas flow conductance through the first set of radial slots between (a) an unobstructed gas flow, ON state, and (b) an obstructed gas flow, OFF state.
|FUEL PREHEATING USING ELECTRIC PUMP - A fuel system for an auxiliary power unit includes a mechanical fuel pump, an electric fuel pump, and a controller. The mechanical fuel pump provides fuel flow to the auxiliary power unit and has an output dependent upon an operational speed of the auxiliary power unit. The electric fuel pump is located in flow series with the mechanical fuel pump. The controller causes the electric fuel pump to circulate and thereby warm fuel prior to start up of the auxiliary power unit.
|DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MEASURING THE FILLING LEVEL - A measurement device for regulating the filling level of a liquid-gas mixture via a inlet valve in a container, having at least one vertical liquid standpipe fixed to a outer wall of the container and fluidically connected to the interior of the container via horizontal tube-shaped hydraulic devices. A first lower hydraulic device is disposed near the container base so the standpipe level changes with the container. A second hydraulic device is provided above the desired filling level so that the standpipe level changes when a selectable desired filling level value is exceeded. The device has a display and regulator that is in controlled connection to the liquid inlet valve. The liquid standpipe has a third tube-shaped hydraulic device that protrudes horizontally into the container and is arranged in the container at or below the desired filling level. The first lower hydraulic device is configured as a return.
|COMPRESSED AIR SUPPLY SYSTEM AND CONTROL METHOD - A compressed air supply assembly for operating a pneumatic assembly includes a compressed air supply; a compressed air connection to the pneumatic assembly; a purge connection to the environment; a pneumatic main line between the compressed air supply and the compressed air connection comprising an air dryer; a purge line between the compressed air connection and the purge connection; and a solenoid valve arrangement with a control valve to control a purge valve. The control valve is connected to a control valve connection in a pneumatic control line connected to a pressure control connection of the purge valve; and the purge valve is connected to a purge valve connection in the purge line. A pressure-maintaining device is connected to the pneumatic control line and maintains control pressure at the pressure control connection when the purge valve connection is open, independently of pressure in the purge line and/or the main line.
|SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC SOLENOID RESPONSE ADJUST CONTROL - A method is described for controlling a solenoid-operated fluid valve having an output hydraulic pressure that varies in accordance with an input solenoid control current delivered from a drive circuit. A model is provided characterizing the plant dynamics of the solenoid-operated fluid valve and the drive circuit where the model is dependent on at least one operating parameter. The method, during operation, involves measuring the value of the operating parameter and adjusting based on the measured operating parameter value one or more gain constants to be used in a selected control strategy. The model is used in adjusting the gains. Finally, the method involves determining a required solenoid control current according to the control strategy with the now dynamically-adjusted gain constants. The control strategy may be a PI control strategy. The model-based system allows easy migration of the general control strategy to different hardware configurations by developing target system specific data for the model.
|METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING A FLUID FLOW RATE IN A FLUID TRANSPORT LINE OF A MEDICAL DEVICE - An apparatus for controlling a fluid flow rate in a fluid transport line of a medical device, including at least a first pump, at least a chamber for collecting the fluid, at least a sensor for providing a first value correlated to the amount of fluid in the chamber, and a control device configured for receiving a second value representative of the fluid flow rate through the first pump and for correlating the second value with the first value to obtain an accuracy check of the second value. A method for controlling a fluid flow rate in a fluid transport line of a medical device including pumping a fluid, collecting the fluid in a chamber, sensing a first value correlated to the amount of fluid in the chamber, and detecting and sending a second value representative of the fluid flow rate through the first pump to a control device, sending the first value to the control device and correlating the second value with the first value to obtain an accuracy check.
|Method and Apparatus for Controlling Ware Washing - A method and apparatus to control ware washing to provide and maintain health safety through the use of an automated system. The method and apparatus adheres and maintains to FDA/EPA standards which consistently clean water, high detergent, correct water temperature and sanitizer levels, to ensure the removal of all human DNA, oils and other food waste that could, when not properly removed after the three step washing process of wash, rinse and sanitize, form a bacterial growth on the kitchen cooking equipment, plates, glasses and utensils, contaminating future food and liquid use.
|APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING CONSUMABLES IN SYSTEMS FOR THE MASS TRANSFER OF GASES INTO LIQUIDS - A method for monitoring consumption of at least one consumable in a mass transfer system. The method includes providing at least one accurate mass transfer apparatus configured to provide mass transfer of a gas into a liquid to generate a liquid output, wherein the relative amounts of liquid and gas are set, and for each mass transfer apparatus: measuring the amount of liquid output, and determining, based on the amount of liquid output and the relative amounts of liquid and gas, a quantity of at least one of the gas and liquid consumed in that mass transfer apparatus.
|PROCESS FOR CONVEYING A STREAM OF A LIQUID F COMPRISING (METH)ACRYLIC MONOMERS - A process for conveying a stream of a liquid F comprising (meth)acrylic monomers with a delivery pump P through a pipeline with circular cross-sectional area OF in which is mounted a restrictor B which firstly closes an area portion of the open cross-sectional area QF and secondly leaves open an area portion TF of the cross-sectional area QF, the outline of which comprises a circular arc of the circular outline of the cross-sectional area QF, said circular arc being within the lower tenth of the circular outline of the cross-sectional area QF.
|MICROCHIP AND CHANNEL STRUCTURE FOR THE SAME - A microchip includes a channel permitting a sheath liquid to flow therethrough; and a microtube for introducing a sample liquid into a laminar flow of the sheath liquid flowing through the channel; wherein liquid feeding is performed in the condition where a laminar flow of the sample liquid introduced through the microtube is surrounded by the laminar flow of the sheath liquid.
|SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HYDRAULICALLY MANAGING FLUID PRESSURE DOWNSTREAM FROM A MAIN VALVE BETWEEN SET POINTS - A system for hydraulically managing fluid pressure between selected set points includes a pilot control system operably coupled to a main valve. The pilot control system includes at least one fluid conduit, a variable orifice assembly, and a control pilot valve apparatus. Fluid is passed through a fixed orifice and into a first chamber of the control pilot valve apparatus. Fluid is passed through the variable orifice of the variable orifice assembly and into a second chamber of the control pilot valve apparatus. The main valve is hydraulically opened or closed in response to a pressure differential between the first and second chambers of the control pilot valve apparatus so as to manage fluid pressure downstream of the main valve between the selected upper and lower set points.
|CONTROL OF OPERATION CONDITIONS WITHIN FLUIDIC SYSTEMS - The invention provides methods of controlling environmental conditions within a fluidic system, where such environmental conditions can affect the operation of the system in its desired function, and fluidic channels, devices, and systems that are used in practicing these methods. Such methods are generally directed to environmental control fluids, the movement of such fluids through these systems, and the interaction of these fluids with other components of the system, e.g., other fluids or solid components of the system.
|SLURRY FEED SYSTEM AND METHOD - The invention can provide or facilitate systems and methods for feeding a slurry and, in particular, to systems and methods for treating wastewater streams with a slurry having periodic flushing of conduits.
|Flow Meter With Improved Thermal Stability And Methods Of Use - Devices and methods for controlling flow to a processing chamber are disclosed. The devices comprise a flow meter, an inlet tube in fluid communication with the flow meter, an outlet tube in fluid communication with the outlet of the flow meter, and thermal insulation encompassing at least a portion of the flow meter, at least a portion of the inlet tube and at least a portion of the outlet tube.
|Reducing Agent Tank That is Intended for Providing a Reducing Agent to an Exhaust Gas System and That Has a Check Valve - A reducing agent tank, which is intended for providing a reducing agent to an exhaust gas system and which has a first tank for storing the reducing agent, a second tank for storing the reducing agent, a line for recirculating the reducing agent from the second tank into the first tank and a check valve for closing the line in a selective fluid-tight manner, includes a diagnostic device, with which an incorrect function of the check valve can be detected.
|METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROCESSING DILUTED FUGITIVE GASES - A method of using hydrocarbon fugitive gases diluted with air as a primary or supplementary fuel for an engine. The composition of the fugitive gases and air in ensured to fall outside the upper and lower explosive limit for the composition. The total volume of the composition is also calculated to be maintained within a predetermined percentage of the volume of the primary fuel supplied to said engine.
|VALVE ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A VALVE - A valve arrangement is provided, (
|METHOD AND DEVICE PERFORMING MODEL BASED ANTI-SURGE DEAD TIME COMPENSATION - Methods and devices for performing a model based anti-surge dead time compensation in systems including a compressor and an anti-surge loop are provided. A new position of an anti-surge valve on the anti-surge loop is determined by correcting for dead time a value of the anti-surge parameter calculated from field measurements, based on a predicted anti-surge parameter estimated using a deterministic model which has as variables the field measurements and a current position of the anti-surge valve.
|VORTICE AMPLIFIED DIFFUSER FOR BUOYANCY DISSIPATER AND METHOD FOR SELECTABLE DIFFUSION - Embodiments of a vortice-amplified diffuser section for use in a buoyancy dissipater are generally described herein. The vortice-amplified diffuser section may include a plurality of diffusion ports to diffuse an expanding gas, a reduction sleeve to adjust an amount of diffusion flow, and vortex generators within at least some of the diffusion ports to generate vortices. The reduction sleeve may be configurable to block off some of the diffusion ports. The vortex generators may generate vortices of gas bubbles in the water to reduce the water's buoyancy and to inhibit movement or disrupt the operations of an errant vessel. The reduction sleeve may be used to control the size, shape, and intensity of the expanding gas bubble or bubble plume as well as to control the lethality level of the buoyancy reduction.
|METHOD FOR EXTENDING THE USAGE LIFE OF OIL IN A DEEP FAT FRYER - A method and apparatus for extending the usage life of cooking oil used in a deep fat fryer in which the desired cooking oil usage life is determined. Upon the occurrence of a triggering event, the level of cooking oil in the vat of the deep fat fryer is varied between an upper first level and a lower second level by extraction of used cooking oil from the vat until the cooking oil level reaches the lower second level and subsequent input of fresh cooking oil until the level of cooking oil, used and fresh, in the vat reaches the upper first level.
|Gas supply system and proessing system - A processing system that can supply a material gas produced inside a material reservoir tank into a processing apparatus while generating almost no pressure loss is provided.
|Sound Pressure Level Feedback Control - Methods and systems are provided for predicting internal sound pressure within a flow passage, by measuring a vibration velocity response of a wall of the flow passage, for example, using accelerometers. A radiation model may then be used for predicting externally radiated sound pressure to provide feedback to control a process control system. Methods and systems are also provided for predicting externally radiated sound pressure based on internally-mounted pressure transducer sensor data.
|Method for regulating a valve - A method for regulating a steam bypass valve is provided. The bypass valve is arranged in a steam line and the steam line includes a device for spraying water. The equation,
|Fluid Level Monitoring System and Method - A fluid level monitoring system may include a control panel having a plurality of input devices, each corresponding to a monitored fluid of a machine, and a plurality of indicators, each corresponding to one of the input devices. The indicators may provide visual displays of fluid level statuses for the monitored fluids. The fluid level monitoring system may further include a message display device that may display a fluid level status message for one of the monitored fluids based on the actuation of the corresponding input device of the control panel.
|DISTINGUISHING THE FUEL ADMITTED TO A FUEL SYSTEM - A method for registering a content change in a fuel system of a motor vehicle, where the fuel system is configured to receive a first fuel and a second fuel into a common space. A first condition is correlated to receiving the first fuel, and a second condition is correlated to receiving the second fuel. The method comprises admitting fuel to the fuel system and indicating that the first fuel has been admitted if a condition responsive to admitting the fuel matches the first condition and does not match the second condition.
|APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY DISABLING UTILITIES - A safety apparatus and method for automatically disabling a utility of a facility. One safety apparatus may be connected, for example, in a basement of a house in line with a water pipe just after a water meter. Another safety apparatus may be connected, for example, in an apartment building in line with a gas utility pipe just after a gas meter. Still another safety apparatus may be connected, for example, in a house in line with a home heating oil pipe. Any of the safety apparatuses include means for measuring a rate of flow of a fluid from a utility fluid source, means for determining if the measured rate of flow indicates the existence of an abnormal flow condition, and means for disabling the flow of fluid from the utility fluid source if the abnormal flow condition is determined to exist.
|GAUGE ASSEMBLY HAVING A STOP FILL DEVICE - A gauge assembly includes an indicator for providing an indication of an amount of fluid in a tank and a stop-fill assembly for stopping the flow of fluid flowing into the tank once the fluid reaches a particular level. The gauge assembly has a shaft that rotates as the fluid level changes in the tank. The indicator translates the rotational position of the shaft into a fluid level. The stop-fill assembly moves from an open position, where fluid can flow into the tank, to a closed position, where fluid is prohibited from flowing into the tank, depending on the rotational position of the shaft.
|PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE - A pressure relief valve for cryogenic service includes: a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a nozzle disposed within the fluid inlet, said nozzle having a nozzle groove radially formed on an exterior cylindrical surface of the nozzle and an outwardly disposed ledge having a lower ledge surface comprising a portion of an exterior surface of the nozzle groove and an upper ledge surface comprising a seat; a substantially cylindrical closure disc with a lower portion including a groove formed on an exterior radial surface of the cylindrical body, an outwardly disposed lip having an upper surface comprising a portion of an interior surface of the groove, said lip of the closure disc having a lower closure surface. The lip of the closure disc being adapted to deflect downward and inward in response to a cryogenic thermal gradient applied across the lip.
|Method for temporarily interrupting an extracorporeal blood treatment, control device and blood treatment apparatus - The present invention relates to a method for temporarily interrupting an extracorporeal treatment of blood of a patient by use of a blood treatment apparatus. The method comprises activating or controlling a control device provided and configured to bring the blood treatment apparatus into a state in which the blood treatment session of the patient can be interrupted with the intention to continue the blood treatment session. The present invention further relates to a control device, a blood treatment apparatus, a digital storage means, a computer program product as well as a computer program.
|METHOD OF CONTROLLING WATER SUPPLY BY A SENSITIVE FAUCET CAPABLE OF AUTOMATICALLY ADJUSTING A DETECTED DISTANCE - A method of controlling water supply by a sensitive faucet capable of automatically adjusting a detected distance comprises steps of: (A) automatically adjusting a detected distance which uses a transmitting unit to emit a pulse to a background, detects a reflection value of the pulse and adjusts the pulse width via a controlling unit; (B) defining a background value which emits the pulse to the background and detects the reflected pulse for setting the reflection value as a background value; and (C) determining a user state which periodically emits the pulse, detects the reflected pulse and determines a user state according to the reflection value for the controlling unit to control a faucet unit open to supply water. Accordingly, the sensitive faucet automatically adjusts a detected distance, for saving water and electricity.
|Gas-to-Liquid Plant Using Parallel Units - A plant is provided for processing natural gas. The plant comprises two or more modules connected in parallel. The plant is configured to convert the associated gas into a material with a higher density. In addition, a method of processing gas associated with one or more oil wells. The method comprises the steps of: providing a modular plant comprising two or more modules in parallel wherein at least one of the modules is a robust module and at least one of the modules is an economical module; turning down one or more of the modules when productivity drops; switching off one or more of the modules at least when productivity drops beyond the turndown limit. The natural gas is treated in a Fischer-Tropsch unit.
|METHOD FOR OPERATING A FLUIDIC PIPELINE SYSTEM - A method for operating a fluidic pipeline system including an active component generating a volume flow of a medium in the system is provided. A plurality of flow channels are connected in parallel with each other and supplied jointly with the volume flow of the medium by the active component. Each flow channel has an individual volume flow requirement of the medium, the requirement is variable over time for at least part of the flow channels. The volume flow in each flow channel includes a time-variable volume flow requirement individually throttled as a function of a control variable associated with the flow channel. The volume flow generated by the active component is additionally regulated as a whole so that no individual throttling of the local volume flow is required in at least one of the flow channels.
|VALVE ACTUATOR CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE - A valve actuator control system for use with a valve actuator may include two pump assemblies, two control valve assemblies, two transducers, a fluid reservoir, and a controller assembly. The controller assembly may actuate the pump assemblies to direct fluid from the fluid reservoir to the valve actuator, and may actuate the control valve assemblies to direct fluid from the valve actuator to the fluid reservoir. A method of actuating a valve actuator using a valve actuator control system may comprise sending a signal to the valve actuator control system, injecting pressurized fluid from a fluid reservoir of the valve actuator control system into a first chamber of the valve actuator, discharging pressurized fluid from a second chamber of the valve actuator into the fluid reservoir, and actuating the valve actuator from a first position to a second position.
|PIEZOELECTRIC PROPORTIONAL CONTROL VALVE - Examples are generally described that are related to a control valve. Some example devices may include a control valve having a piezoelectric actuator substantially immersed in a fluid and further having a sealing mechanism configured to be in a closed position and an open position. The piezoelectric actuator may be configured to distort in response to an applied voltage causing the sealing mechanism to open and allow fluid to flow therethrough. In response to removing the applied voltage, the piezoelectric actuator returns to an undistorted position causing the sealing mechanism to close and prevent fluid from flowing therethrough.
|SHOWER WATER USAGE INDICATOR APPARATUS - Shower water usage indicator apparatus comprises a shower head, a shower base for receiving shower water discharged from the shower head, a waste shower water outlet element for receiving runoff waste shower water from the shower base and for discharging to a drain, a controller for controlling water flow to the shower head and/or water flow from the waste shower water outlet element, a water flow rate detector for outputting a flow rate signal to the controller based on a detected water flow rate, and a water usage display element which is spaced from the water flow rate detector. A water usage indication is displayable on the water usage display element based on an output of the water flow rate detector. A data storage element stores usage data when showering, a representation of usage history based on the stored usage data being displayable on the water usage display element.
|METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT FOR GENERATING OR DEPOSITING A STREAM OF FLUID SEGMENTS AND USE THEREOF - An arrangement and method for generating or depositing a stream of m>1 fluid segments, respectively separated by an intermediary medium which does not mix with the fluid segments. The arrangement includes a molded body having a channel for conducting the fluid stream, from which n≧m first access lines and n second access lines branch off. The first and second access lines are configured so to be inserted into n wells. The lengths of the first access lines differ from the lengths of the second access lines, and respectively one first valve is arranged in the channel, between the branching location for each second access line and the branching location for each associated first access line, and wherein respectively a second valve is arranged in each second access line.
|Reservoir For Liquid Dispensing System With Enhanced Mixing - Reservoir for a dispense system designed to maintain a suspending fluid flow within the reservoir. The fluid dispense system is particularly well suited to be manufactured in a single-use format comprising a fluid reservoir and fill tube assembly, particularly comprising a reservoir, tubing, fittings and connectors, and a needle. The system ensures uniformity within the liquid by moving the fluid through the product reservoir such as with a continuous or pulsating flow, and is designed to maintain the fluid in motion in order to maintain a homogenous solution. The reservoir is designed to minimize any fluid dead zones.
|IRRIGATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATING THEREOF - The present invention discloses an irrigation system comprising a plurality of valve stations that are operatively coupled with a controller operative to control the operation of the plurality of valve stations. The valve stations are grouped into a plurality of valve station groups, each group comprising at least two valve stations. The at least two valve stations are operatively coupled in parallel with a hotwire to a respective output port of the controller; and the at least two valve stations respective of the plurality of valve station groups are operatively coupled in parallel with a common wire to a corresponding input port of the controller. The controller is operative to change the operational mode of a selected one of the valve stations.
|Hydronic Space and Water Heater - A compact hydronic space and water heating apparatus and system is disclosed for use in a recreational vehicle. A liquid heating medium, stored within a low pressure tank, is recirculated through a gas fired heater thereby maintaining a desired set point temperature. The liquid heating medium is further circulated through the vehicles hydronic space heaters to heat the interior of the vehicle. Further fresh domestic water is passed through a heat transfer coil within the tank whereby hot domestic water may be provided. An auxiliary heating device is attached to the tank whereby hot combustion engine coolant may assist in maintaining the temperature of the liquid heating medium within the tank and/or reversed to pre heat the combustion engine if and when needed.
|FLUID WORKING MACHINES AND METHODS - A fluid working machine comprises a controller (
|DRAG REDUCTION OF ASPHALTENIC CRUDE OILS - A system for reducing pressure drop associated with the turbulent flow of asphaltenic crude oil through a conduit. The crude oil has a high asphaltene content and/or a low API gravity. Such reduction in pressure drop is achieved by treating the asphaltenic crude oil with a high molecular weight drag reducing polymer that can have a solubility parameter within about 20 percent of the solubility parameter of the heavy crude oil. The drag reducing polymer can also comprise the residues of monomers having at least one heteroatom.
|SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING FLUSHING APPARATUS AND RELATED INTERFACES - A programmable automated water flushing system (PAWFS) allows for two way communication and remote flushing unit management through a secure web access point or a secure interface in signal communication with a supervisory control and data acquisition system. The PAWFS is configurable to provide and log real time data. The PAWFS can be integrated with exterior water management devices. The PAWFS is configurable to cause flushing of water retention areas when disinfectant residual falls below selectable parameters. The PAWFS can be programmed to flush or clear liquids in accordance with at least one time-based function.
|Vapor Delivery Device, Methods of Manufacture And Methods of Use Thereof - A method comprises transporting a first stream of a carrier gas to a delivery device that contains a solid precursor compound. The first stream of carrier gas is at a temperature greater than or equal to 20° C. The method further comprises transporting a second stream of the carrier gas to a point downstream of the delivery device. The first stream and the second stream are combined to form a third stream, such that the dewpoint of the vapor of the solid precursor compound in the third stream is lower than the ambient temperature. The flow direction of the first stream, the flow direction of the second stream and the flow direction of the third stream are unidirectional and are not opposed to each other.
|LEAK ISOLATION LOGIC FOR CLOSED-VOLUME SYSTEM - A method for isolating a leak in a closed-volume liquid system comprises circulating a fluid through a plurality of isolatable zones and a non-isolatable zone in a closed-volume liquid system, detecting a leak in the closed-volume liquid system, isolating all of the isolatable zones from the non-isolatable zone, sequentially detecting if the leak is present in the non-isolatable zone and each of isolatable zones, and taking corrective action after the leak is detected.
|Selectively Controlling Fluid Flow Through a Fluid Pathway - Systems and methods for controlling fluid delivery via a manually administrable medication container to a patient through a fluid delivery pathway are provided. The systems and methods described herein incorporate rules-based clinical decision support logic to drive a flow control valve within a flow pathway to determine whether the IV fluid connected to the input port is consistent with medical orders, accepted delivery protocols, and/or specific patient and patient histories. Related apparatus, systems, methods and articles are also described.
|AUTOMATED ASEPTIC LIQUID COLLECTION WORKSTATIONS AND COLLECTION DEVICES THEREFORE - An automated liquid collection workstation is provided. The workstation includes a processor, a peristaltic pump, a valve actuator, and an algorithm. The peristaltic pump and the valve actuator are in electrical communication with the processor. The valve actuator can move a plurality of valves, when disposed therein, among an off position, a flush position, and a collection position. The algorithm is resident on the processor and is configured to: move all of the valves to the off position and place the pump in an off state when no sampling or flushing is required, move all of the valves to the flush position and place the pump in an on state for a predetermined flush time period when flushing is required, and move a respective one of the valves to the collection position, move any of the valves upstream of the respective valve to the flush position, and place the pump to the on state for a predetermined collection time period when collection is required.
|Gas Hydrate Percentage Measuring Device and the Method of Controlling the Same - Provided are a gas hydrate percentage measuring device and a method of controlling the same which are capable of measuring a gas hydrate percentage with high accuracy even if source gas exists dissolved in gas hydrate slurry or as gas bubble therein. The method comprises: a first measuring step for measuring an electric conductivity of gas hydrate slurry which passes through a main line (
|SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SUPPLYING NATURAL GAS TO A SALES LINE - A system is disclosed for supplying natural gas to a sales line, the system comprising: an inlet connected to receive natural gas from a well; an outlet connected to discharge the natural gas to a sales line; piping between the inlet and the outlet; a moisture sensor on the piping for detection of a predetermined moisture level in the natural gas; a shutdown valve, on the piping, connected to close upon detection by the moisture sensor of a moisture level at or above the predetermined moisture level; an odorant addition unit on the piping; and a gas analyzer on the piping for tracking the volume and heating value of natural gas discharged through the outlet. A method of supplying natural gas to a sales line is also disclosed.
|MATERIAL WITHDRAWAL APPARATUS AND METHODS OF REGULATING MATERIAL INVENTORY IN ONE OR MORE UNITS - Material withdrawal apparatus, methods, and systems of regulating material inventory in one or more units are provided. A material withdrawal apparatus includes a heat exchanger and transport medium junction configured to provide transport medium to transport the withdrawn material from the unit to the heat exchanger. Another material withdrawal apparatus includes a heat exchanger and shock coolant junction configured to provide shock coolant to the material withdrawn from the unit. Another material withdrawal apparatus includes a heat exchanger, shock coolant junction, and transport medium junction. Another embodiment of a material withdrawal apparatus includes a vessel and shock coolant junction. Another material withdrawal apparatus includes a vessel and transport medium junction. The vessel includes a wall, liner with heat insulating refractory material, fill port, and a discharge port. Other embodiments provide methods of withdrawing or regulating material in a unit and systems coupled to a material withdrawal apparatus.
|Ultrasonic Analyte Concentration and Application in Flow Cytometry - The present invention includes an apparatus and corresponding method for concentrating analytes within a fluid flowing through a tube using acoustic radiation pressure. The apparatus includes a function generator that outputs a radio frequency electrical signal to a transducer that transforms the radio frequency electric signal to an acoustic signal and couples the acoustic signal to the tube. The acoustic signal is converted within the tube to acoustic pressure that concentrates the analytes within the fluid.
|MICROFABRICATED ELASTOMERIC VALVE AND PUMP SYSTMES - A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.
|Microfluidic Valve - A microfluidic valve. A microfluidic channel is formed in a substrate. A cooling element cools a substance in the channel to inhibit flow of the substance through the channel. A heating element warms the substance to overcome the effect of the cooling and enable the substance to flow through the channel. The valve may serve as a component of a microfluidic device that in turn may be part of a microfluidic system.
|METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING TOTAL DISSOLVED SOLIDS IN A LIQUID CIRCULATION SYSTEM - A method and apparatus for controlling the total dissolved solids in a liquid circulation system having a sump to which liquid is supplied from a liquid source measures the liquid level in the sump, calculates the average evaporation rate of the liquid over time based on that measurement and also calculates the total dissolved solids level in the liquid based on sump volume, the measured liquid level in the sump, the calculated evaporation rate and the total dissolved solids content of the liquid from the liquid source and adds supply liquid to the liquid circulating system when the calculated total dissolved solids content in the liquid in the system attains a predetermined level.
|Magnetically Activated Safety Valve Sealable Upon Rupturing - A safety valve designed to stop the flow of fluid through a conduit or pipe when an internal or external force causes the valve to rupture in a predetermined region and a method for using such a safety valve is provided. The safety valve generally comprises a first region, a second region, and a separation region. The separation region is designed such that the application of an internal or external force or force will cause the valve to rupture.
|VALVE POSITIONING SYSTEM WITH BLEED PREVENTION - A valve positioner system with zero bleed at steady state is disclosed. The system has a pilot valve, the operation of which is controlled by an electronic circuit powered from a signaling and power connection of a positioner device. A plurality of pneumatic valves are activated and deactivated by the pilot valve to control a valve actuator. With varying configurations and arrangements of normally open or normally closed pilot valves and pneumatic valves, fail freeze and fail safe operations are contemplated. The activation and deactivation of the pilot valve is controlled by an electronic circuit that monitors a valve position signal.
|METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CAPACITIVE SENSING THE TOP LEVEL OF A MATERIAL IN A VESSEL - A method and apparatus for sensing the top level of a material in a vessel is disclosed. A method and apparatus for sensing changes in the top level of a material in a vessel is disclosed.
|REMOTE MONITORING SHOWER WATER APPARATUS AND METHOD OF REMOTE MONITORING A SHOWERING USER - Remote-monitoring shower water apparatus comprises a housing, a shower water inlet at the housing, a shower water outlet at the housing, a controller at the housing which controls at least water flow from the shower water inlet to the shower water outlet, and a monitoring device which monitors at least one of the controller and the user of the controller. The monitoring device includes at least one sensor element and an offsite-signal transmitter at or adjacent to the housing which transmits a status signal to a carer location remote from an installation site of the shower water apparatus, based on a status of the sensor element.
|FULLY AUTOMATED EMERGENCY GENERATOR FUEL OIL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATION THEREOF - A fully automated emergency generator fuel oil system comprises a plurality of emergency generator fuel oil system components, a plurality of sensors for continuously monitoring the physical status of said system components, and a master control panel in communication with the plurality of sensors, wherein a master control panel in operative communication with the system components interprets signals received from the plurality of sensors to determine if an event has occurred, an event indicating the physical status of one or more of the system components, and when an event has occurred, the master control panel issues one or more instructions responsive to the event that control the function of one or more of the system components.
|Shaping a Fluid Cavity of a Flow Control Actuator for Creation of Desired Waveform Characteristics - Apparatus and methods provide for a flow control actuator having a fluid cavity that is shaped to create periodic waveforms within the resulting resonant actuating flow with predetermined characteristics for actuating a high-speed fluid flow. According to various embodiments, a flow control actuator includes a power source for exciting the actuator fluid at a resonant frequency and a cavity shaped according to resonant macrosonic synthesis principles to maximize the exit velocity of the actuating flow at an orifice of the actuator.
|Fluid Leak Detection and Shutdown Apparatus - An apparatus and method for a fluid leak detection and shutdown for a fluid distribution system having a total system flow rate. The apparatus includes a solenoid shutoff valve having a normally open state and an activated closed state with a flow capacity matched to the total fluid distribution system flow rate. The apparatus also has a primary fluid flow line and a smaller capacity secondary fluid flow line. The apparatus includes a flow sensor in fluid communication with the secondary fluid flow line, wherein the flow sensor has a perceptible output and a flow rate capacity less than the solenoid shutoff flow capacity. Operationally, the flow sensor receives a portion of the solenoid shutoff valve flow capacity in priority over the primary fluid flow line, allowing the flow sensor to detect minimal flow rates and using the perceptible output to activate the solenoid shutoff valve into the closed state.
|LABORATORY SYRINGE PUMPS - A syringe pump which includes a pusher block is slidably mounted on bearings on one or more guide rails. The pusher block is advanced or retracted by a lead screw having an axis which is offset from the axis of the one or more guide rails which are supported at their respective ends by support blocks, wherein forward and/or trailing sides of the pusher block bearings are extended, and wherein the guide rail support blocks include recesses for accommodating the extended ends of the pusher block slide bearings. In another embodiment, the syringe pump includes quick connect-disconnect fixtures for loading and unloading syringes. Other mechanical, and programmable improvements are described in the specification.
|METHODS FOR MONITORING A FLOW CONTROLLER COUPLED TO A PROCESS CHAMBER - Methods and apparatus for in-situ calibration of a flow controller are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method of flowing a gas includes providing a flow controller configured to provide a first gas at a first value of a flow rate based on a calculated first relationship determined by using a standard gas; determining an actual first relationship between the flow rate and the setpoint for the first gas from a plurality of values of the flow rate of the first gas determined at a corresponding plurality of values of the setpoint of the flow controller, wherein each of the plurality of values of the flow rate is determined from flowing the first gas through the flow controller at corresponding ones of the plurality of values for the setpoint; and flowing the first gas at the first value of the flow rate based on the actual first relationship.
|PROCESS FOR TRANSFERRING A LIQUID USING A PUMP - A process to pump liquid held in a passive tank to an active tank when the active tank has a liquid level below a set point level and when the passive tank contains liquid at a temperature above the freezing point of the liquid, the active tank including a discontinuous level gauge configured to provide at least x+1 indications of the level of liquid in tank as a function of the relative position of a moving part with respect to x set point levels, x being at least equal to 2. The process includes: reading the level indication from a level gauge; starting a pump and measuring a time during which a pump transfers liquid; stopping the pump if this time is greater than a time constant, which depends on the value of the level indication, and if a next set point level is not reached.
|Closed-Loop Hydraulic System Having Flow Combining and Recuperation - A hydraulic system is disclosed. The hydraulic system may have a plurality of closed-loop circuits fluidly connecting a plurality of pumps to a plurality of actuators, and at least one control valve configured to selectively fluidly connect a first of the plurality of closed-loop circuits to a second of the plurality of closed loop circuits. The hydraulic system may also have an accumulator configured to receive pressured fluid from and discharge pressurized fluid to at least the first of the plurality of closed-loop circuits.
|HYDRAULIC SYSTEM HAVING MULTIPLE CLOSED-LOOP CIRCUITS - A hydraulic system is disclosed. The hydraulic system may have a first circuit fluidly connecting a first pump to a swing motor and to a first travel motor in a parallel closed-loop manner. The hydraulic system may also have a second circuit fluidly connecting a second pump to a second travel motor and to a first linear tool actuator in a parallel closed-loop manner.
|BISTABLE PULSE SOLENOID VALVE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD - The present invention provides a bistable pulse solenoid valve control system and method. The control system includes a bistable pulse solenoid valve having a coil current, and including a coil frame, a coil having a magnetic flux, at least two permanent magnets, a valve core disposed inside the coil frame, and a frame configured to encapsulate the permanent magnets, the coil, the valve core, and the coil frame. The system also includes a main control circuit, a polarity conversion control circuit, and a drive current sampling detection circuit. The main control circuit is configured to generate a control signal and the polarity conversion control circuit is configured to control the direction and power on-off time of the coil current.
|COMPACT TURBOMACHINE SYSTEM WITH IMPROVED SLUG FLOW HANDLING - A turbomachine system and method, with the system including a slug detector coupled to a main line to detect a slug flow in a multiphase fluid in the main line. The system also includes a compressor fluidly coupled to the main line and disposed downstream of the slug detector, and a bypass line fluidly coupled to the main line upstream of the compressor and downstream of the compressor. The system further includes at least an upstream control valve fluidly coupled to the main line upstream of the compressor and communicably coupled to the slug detector. The upstream control valve is configured to actuate between a normal position, in which the upstream control valve directs fluid to the compressor, and a bypass position, in which the upstream control valve directs fluid to the bypass line, according to when the slug detector detects a slug flow.
|METHOD PERTAINING TO AIR REMOVAL FROM A LIQUID SUPPLY SYSTEM AND A LIQUID SUPPLY SYSTEM - A method pertaining to a liquid supply system which supplies liquid to a feed device (
|ENDPOINT DETERMINATION FOR CAPILLARY-ASSISTED FLOW CONTROL - Apparatus and method for determining endpoint of a fluid supply vessel in which fluid flow is controlled through a flow passage disposed in an interior volume of the fluid supply vessel with a static flow restricting device and a selectively actuatable valve element upon establishing fluid flow. The endpoint determination can be employed to terminate fluid supply from the fluid supply vessel and/or to switch from a fluid-depleted supply vessel to a fresh vessel for continuity or renewal of fluid supply operation. The apparatus and method are suitable for use with fluidutilizing apparatus such as ion implanters.
|METHODS FOR AN EXHAUST FLUID LEVEL SENSOR - Various methods are provided for notifying a vehicle operator of various parameters based on an exhaust fluid level sensor of an exhaust fluid storage tank. In one example, the parameter is a consumption rate of the exhaust fluid. In another example, the parameter is an amount of fluid to be added to the exhaust fluid storage tank.
|MICROFLUIDIC DEVICES WITH MECHANICALLY-SEALED DIAPHRAGM VALVES - This invention provides a fluidic device comprising a diaphragm valve having a fluidics layer, an actuation layer and an elastic layer between the fluidics layer and the actuation layer, the elastic layer having a diaphragm that is mechanically sealed against the fluidics layer and the actuation layer by a sealing ring in the actuation layer.
|Managing Waste Water Discharge Of A Computing System - Managing waste water discharge of a computing system, the computing system including one or more evaporative coolers, including: determining, by a waste water management module, a waste water discharge limit, wherein the waste water discharge limit specifies the amount of waste water that can be discharged within a period of time; determining, by the waste water management module, the amount of waste water that has been discharged during a current measurement period; and updating, by the waste water management module, operating parameters for the computing system in dependence upon the amount of waste water that has been discharged during the current measurement period and the waste water discharge limit.
|REAL-TIME SYSTEM FOR MONITORING HYDROGEN TANK EXPANSION AND A METHOD FOR USING SAME - The present disclosure provides a system and method for safely charging hydrogen using real-time hydrogen tank expansion data. The system includes an expansion measurement unit, a vehicle-side control unit, a charging station-side control unit, and a wireless communication unit. The expansion measurement unit is disposed on a hydrogen tank of the vehicle, and measures the degree of expansion of the hydrogen tank and generates a corresponding output signal. The vehicle-side control unit converts the output signal into data wireless output signal. The charging station-side control unit stops hydrogen replenishment by a hydrogen charger when the wireless output signal indicates an unsafe degree of tank expansion based. The wireless communication unit is provided to perform wireless data communication between the vehicle-side control unit and the charging-side control unit.
|REAGENT SPLITTING/DISPENSING METHOD BASED ON REAGENT DISPENSING NOZZLE AND REAGENT SPLITTING/DISPENSING MECHANISM - A reagent splitting/dispensing method based on a reagent dispensing nozzle controls a split or dispensation amount of reagent, includes a waiting process of disposing a first air layer between an interface of the operation fluid and a nozzle tip end in the reagent dispensing nozzle; a first moving process of moving the reagent dispensing nozzle to a position above the reagent to be split; a second moving process of depositing the nozzle tip end in the reagent; an air layer adjusting process of increasing the occupation amount of the operation fluid in the reagent dispensing nozzle and decreasing the occupation amount of the first air layer, between the first moving process and the second moving process; and a reagent splitting process of decreasing the occupation amount of the operation fluid in the reagent dispensing nozzle and filling the reagent into the reagent dispensing nozzle from the nozzle tip end.
|MICROFLUIDIC CHIPS AND ASSAY SYSTEMS - The systems and methods described herein include a microfluidic chip having a plurality of microfeatures interconnected to provide a configurable fluid transport system for processing at least one reagent. Inserts are provided to removably interfit into one or more of the microfeatures of the chip, wherein the inserts include sites for interactions with the reagent. As will be seen from the following description, the microfluidic chip and the inserts provide an efficient and accurate approach for conducting parallel assays.
|METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING GAS FLOW TO A PROCESSING CHAMBER - A method and apparatus for delivering gases to a semiconductor processing system are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus for delivering gases to a semiconductor processing system includes a plurality of gas input and output lines having inlet and outlet ports. Connecting lines couple respective pairs of the gas input and gas output lines. Connecting valves are arranged to control flow through the respective connecting lines. Mass gas flow controllers are arranged to control flow into respective inlet ports. In another embodiment, a method includes providing a manifold having at least a plurality of inlet that may be selectively coupled to at least one of a plurality of outlets, flowing one or more gases through the manifold to a vacuum environment by-passing the processing chamber prior to processing or to a calibration circuit, and flowing the one or more gases into the processing chamber during substrate processing.
|LOW OIL LEVEL DETECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A hydraulic system for a hybrid module which is located between an engine and a transmission includes a parallel arrangement of a mechanical pump and an electric pump. Each pump is constructed and arranged to deliver oil from a sump to other portions of the hydraulic system depending on the operational mode. A load on the electric pump corresponds to a current draw on the electric pump motor. This current draw is used to indicate when there is a low oil level in the sump.
|PLUMBING FITTING - A blocking plumbing fitting; said fitting comprising a flexible cup element adapted for insertion into a pipe element; said fitting further comprising a one way valve element depending from said flexible cup element, wherein said one way valve element permits liquid to pass through said pipe element; said one way valve element preventing passage of odours, soapsuds, vermin, noise and other undesirable elements issuing from said pipe element.
|COOLED SMELT RESTRICTOR AT COOLED SMELT SPOUT FOR DISRUPTING SMELT FLOW FROM THE BOILER - The amount or extent of expositions as a result of hot smelt from a pulp mill recovery boiler impacting cool liquid in a dissolving tank is reduced more effectively by regulating the smelt flow via a restrictor assembly. The restrictor assembly may be positioned to permit the smelt to flow, unrestricted, from the recovery boiler to the dissolving tank, or the restrictor assembly may be positioned so as to fully or partially block the smelt flow from the boiler to the dissolving tank. In some embodiments, a source of cooling fluid may be coupled to the restrictor assembly so as to assist in cooling parts of the restrictor assembly when hot smelt is in contact with the assembly.
|APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY DISABLING UTILITIES - A safety apparatus for automatically disabling a utility of a facility. The safety apparatus includes at least one remote sensor that transmits a signal if an environmental parameter reaches a preset default setting or a setting selected by a user. The safety apparatus also includes an electronic controller device operatively connected to the utility and capable of disabling the utility upon receiving the signal from the sensor based upon the environmental parameter.
|FLUID DEVICE WITH MAGNETIC LATCHING VALVES - A method of valving a fluid device includes receiving a signal that is correlated to a displacement of a volume chamber of a displacement assembly of a fluid device. A check ball is delatched from a magnetic pole of a first latch valve that is in fluid communication with the volume chamber and a fluid inlet of the fluid device when the displacement of the volume chamber reaches a first value. A check ball is delatched from a magnetic pole of a second latch valve that is in fluid communication with the volume chamber and a fluid outlet of the fluid device when the displacement of the volume chamber reaches a second value.
|METHOD, CONTROLLER AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING THE SLUG FLOW OF A MULTIPHASE FLUID - A method of controlling the flow of a multiphase fluid through a pipeline that includes a riser pipe with a choke valve comprises receiving multiple signals dependent on fluid flow properties from a plurality of sensors in the topside area of the riser pipe, analysing the signals to establish a vector of measurement weights, the product of the vector of measurement weights and a corresponding vector of the signal values of a given time being dependent on the severity of a slug flow forming in the system. Further signals dependent on fluid flow properties are received from the plurality of sensors in the topside area of the riser pipe. A set position for the choke valve is then determined from the product of the vector of measurement weights and further values of signals to restrict characteristics of the flow in the topside from moving towards a severely slugging flow regime.
|Automatic Shutoff Drain - An automatic shutoff drain remains open to allow the flow of aqueous liquids, but automatically closes if a non-aqueous liquid enters. The drain has four primary components: (
|SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RECYCLING STERILANT GAS - A system for recovery of a sterilant gas mixture from a sterilizer chamber is disclosed. The system includes a gas recovery tank, a sterilizer chamber in gaseous communication with the gas recovery tank and a gas recovery assembly coupled to the gas recovery tank and the sterilizer chamber. The gas recovery assembly is configured to transfer a sterilant gas mixture including at least one sterilant gas between the sterilizer chamber and the gas recovery tank. The system further includes an analyzer assembly coupled to the sterilizer chamber, the analyzer assembly including at least one sterilant gas sensor configured to detect density of the sterilant gas and a control module coupled to the analyzer assembly and to the gas recovery assembly. The control module includes at least one control module configured to determine at least one of a transfer pressure and flammability of the sterilant gas mixture as a function of the density of the sterilant gas.
|LIQUID MEDIUM SUPPLY METHOD - The invention relates to technology and equipment for liquid media treatment and supply and can be used in oil processing, chemical, medical and other industry branches. The proposed liquid medium supply method is described with use of a dynamic nozzle having elements
|Slurry Catalyst Flow Splitters and Methods of Using the Same - A system for feeding a slurry catalyst composition including: a primary slurry feed system comprising a primary slurry flow meter and a primary catalyst injection device, wherein the primary slurry flow meter measures a primary slurry catalyst composition flow rate to the primary catalyst injection device; and a secondary slurry feed system comprising a secondary slurry flow meter, a secondary carrier liquid, a secondary carrier liquid control device, and a secondary catalyst injection device, wherein the secondary slurry flow meter measures a secondary slurry catalyst composition flow rate to the secondary catalyst injection device, wherein the secondary carrier liquid control device controls a process parameter of the secondary slurry feed system based a ratio of the primary slurry catalyst composition flow rate to the secondary slurry catalyst composition flow rate.
|CO2 SYSTEM PRESSURE CONTROL VALVE - An apparatus and method for filling a CO2 system that provides carbonation and delivery of beverages to a user is provided together with a control valve for performing this method. The steps include: attaching a hose and pumping liquid carbon dioxide through an inlet fitting housed in a control valve assembly; causing the translation of a valve stem to isolate a gas port and a tank and a user port and directing the liquid carbon dioxide to a liquid port and a tank; and stopping the pumping of the liquid carbon dioxide upon reaching a pre-determined pressure and removing the hose allowing the translation of the valve stem to close the valve assembly from the atmosphere and allowing the liquid to boil to a gas to provide delivery and carbonation to the beverage.
|HEAT PIPE WITH CONTROLLED FLUID CHARGE AND HYDROPHOBIC COATING - The present invention is a heat pipe having a specified volume of working fluid determined in relation to the interior volume of the heat pipe and a target temperature T
|EXHAUST FLOW CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method for controlling the exhaust flow rate in an exhaust ventilation system including an exhaust hood positioned above a cooking appliance. The method can include measuring a temperature of the exhaust air in the vicinity of the cooking appliance, and measuring a radiant temperature of a surface of the cooking appliance, and determining an appliance status based on the measured exhaust air temperature and radiant temperature, and controlling the exhaust flow rate in response to the determined appliance status.
|SOLID CHEMICAL PRODUCT DILUTION CONTROL - A solid chemical product is dispensed to prepare a requested amount of a use solution having a requested concentration of the chemical product. In some examples, a target amount of a diluent and a target amount of the chemical product required to prepare the requested use solution are determined. The target amount of the diluent is dispensed into a container. At least some of the diluent in the container is applied to the solid chemical product to create a resultant use solution, which is directed back into the container. The diluent from the container is applied to the chemical product until the amount of the use solution in the container satisfies the requested amount. In some examples, the target amount of the diluent and the target amount of the chemical product are measured by weight.
|METHOD OF AND COMPUTER PROGRAM FOR MANAGING ONE OR MORE AGRICULTURAL DEVICES - A system and method for managing an agricultural device, including connecting the agricultural device to a network, collecting operational data relating to the agricultural device, granting an access right in respect of the collected operational data to an entity connected to the network, receiving data from the entity in response to the access right, and managing the agricultural device on the basis of the collected operational data and the data from the entity. The method may be implemented for managing multiple agricultural devices, and may be implemented in a computer readable medium. In one embodiment, the operational data relates to clinical mastitis detection.
|Flow Passage Switching Apparatus, Processing Apparatus, Flow Passage Switching Method, Processing Method and Storage Medium - Disclosed are a flow path switching apparatus and a fluid processing apparatus having a liquid processing unit that performs a processing by supplying different kinds of processing fluid to wafer W at different timings The atmosphere of the liquid processing unit is discharged fluid to a plurality of exclusive exhaust paths through exhaust paths and flow path switching units. A flow path switching unit includes an outer tube having a plurality of connection holes and a rotary tube inserted into the outer tube having a plurality of openings. In particular, one of the plurality of openings of the rotary tube is aligned with one of the plurality of connection holes of the outer tube in such a way that only an aligned set of an opening of the rotary tube and a connection hole of the outer tube is sequentially communicated during the rotation of the rotary tube.
|CALIBRATION METHOD AND FLOW RATE MEASUREMENT METHOD FOR FLOW RATE CONTROLLER FOR GAS SUPPLY DEVICE - In a gas supply device supplying many different gases to a gas use portion through many flow rate controllers, a flow rate controller calibration unit includes a build-up tank with inner volume, an inlet side on-off valve and an outlet side on-off valve V
|GRAY WATER RECYCLING APPARATUS AND METHOD - Instead of disposing gray water with sewage water, a gray water recycling apparatus uses a series of sensors and determines the acceptability of chemical concentrations and temperature of the gray water for use in irrigation purposes so as to ensure the recycled gray water is safe for irrigation. If it is, a three-way valve is positioned to direct the gray water to an irrigation pipe; otherwise, the three-way valve is positioned to direct the water to a public sewage system or septic tank.
|CONTINUOUSLY REGULATED PRECISION PRESSURE FLUID DELIVERY SYSTEM - A fluid flow characteristic regulator (
|Fuel Metering Control - A method of controlling the operation of a fuel metering unit of the type incorporating a temperature sensor is disclosed, the method comprising the steps of:
|INSHOT BURNER FLAME RETAINER - A burner insert for use with a burner is provided. The burner insert includes a cylindrical body member having an inlet end and an outlet end. The cylindrical body includes a central passage and a plurality of openings disposed about the central passage. One or more fins are axially disposed within the central passage. A plurality of rib members are coupled to the body, each of the plurality of rib members axially disposed within one of the plurality of openings.
|Electromagnetic flow regulator, system, and methods for regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid - Disclosed embodiments include electromagnetic flow regulators for regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid, systems for regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid, methods of regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid, nuclear fission reactors, systems for regulating flow of an electrically conductive reactor coolant, and methods of regulating flow of an electrically conductive reactor coolant in a nuclear fission reactor.
Patent applications in class With control of flow by a condition or characteristic of a fluid
Patent applications in all subclasses With control of flow by a condition or characteristic of a fluid