Force measuring valve assemblies, systems including such valve assemblies and related methods
US8156822B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 1, 2009 |
| Grant date | Apr 17, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 30, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/86405
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Methods of evaluating a fluid condition may include stroking a valve member and measuring a force acting on the valve member during the stroke. Methods of evaluating a fluid condition may include measuring a force acting on a valve member in the presence of fluid flow over a period of time and evaluating at least one of the frequency of changes in the measured force over the period of time and the magnitude of the changes in the measured force over the period of time to identify the presence of an anomaly in a fluid flow and, optionally, its estimated location. Methods of evaluating a valve condition may include directing a fluid flow through a valve while stroking a valve member, measuring a force acting on the valve member during the stroke, and comparing the measured force to a reference force. Valve assemblies and related systems are also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.