Patent · US Expired

Electronic monitoring unit for monitoring number of uses of cartridge

US5328597A · kind A · utility

156Cited by
22References
30Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJul 27, 1992
Grant dateJul 12, 1994
Priority date
Expiry dateJul 27, 2012

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
  • CPC primaryC02F2307/04
  • WIPO fieldChemical engineering
  • WIPO sectorChemistry

Abstract

A self-contained electronic monitoring unit for attachment to a device, such as a water filter, designed to be used until the occurrence of a predetermined event such as a predetermined number of uses, includes transducer for providing distinct outputs such as different audio output signals. A programmed integrated circuit and use detecting means such as electrical contacts detect each use of the device and monitor when the device is operational, when the end of life event is imminent and has occurred. The integrated circuit is programmed to operate the transducer to produce output signals during each use of the device informing the user that the device is operational, that the predetermined event or end of useful life is imminent and that the useful life has expired. The unit includes a battery for supplying power to the transducer and integrated circuit.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.