Waters Technologies Corporation

Other

Waters Investments Limited

Frank Rubino

Joseph A Luongo

John Angelosanto

Theodore A Dourdeville

Steven J Ciavarini

Kurt D Joudrey

Robert J Dumas

Stanley P Pensak, Jr

David J First

Robert Tacconi

Jean-Pierre Pugnaire

Richard R Venable

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to method and devices for measuring the pressure of a pump chamber in which no internal opening or connections are needed. One embodiment of the present invention is directed to an apparatus for pumping fluid. The apparatus comprises at least one housing having a transducer surface. The transducer surface has a thickness exhibiting measurable deformation upon the chamber holding a fluid under pressure such that the transducer surface has a first position at which the chamber is at one pressure and a second position at which the chamber is at a second pressure. A strain sensor is affixed to the transducer surface producing; at least one signal upon the transducer surface assuming the first position and at least one signal upon the transducer surface assuming the second position to function as an integrated pressure transducer.

Device and methods of measuring pressure

A valve including a linear positioning component operatively connected to a valve body and an actuating element.

Active valve and methods of operation thereof

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to methods and devices for conveying or containing fluids under pressure in which seals are provided with a defined path to vent fluid in the event of a seal failure.

Defined leak path for high pressure seal

Defined lead path for high pressure seal

Embodiments of the present invention feature a method and apparatus for detecting defects, such as, leaks, component failure and adverse performance. One embodiment of the present apparatus for pumping fluid comprises a pumping chamber having an inlet and an outlet powered by a motor. The motor operates in pumping mode upon receiving a pumping signal. The apparatus further comprises at least one inlet valve in fluid communication with the inlet of the pumping chamber. And, the apparatus comprises a switchable valve in fluid communication with the outlet of the pumping chamber. The switchable valve has a closed position and an open position, and assumes the closed position upon receiving a close signal. A pressure measuring device is in fluid communication with the pumping chamber, between said inlet valve and switchable valve. The pressure measuring device determines a minimal pressure and first threshold pressure at a first time and a second threshold pressure at a second time. The control means calculates the slope of a line representing the difference of said first threshold pressure signal and said second threshold pressure signal over time and comparing the slope with a threshold decay value. And, the control means compares the minimal pressure to a minimal acceptable value. Deviations from such values represent a defect in the pump.

Methods and apparatus for determining the presence or absence of a fluid leak

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North Attleboro, MA, United States of America

Frank Rubino