УПРАВЛЕНИЕ ПРОЦЕССОМ С ПРИМЕНЕНИЕМ УЛЬТРАЗВУКОВОГО ЗОНДА С ФАЗИРОВАННОЙ РЕШЕТКОЙ

Method of determining the texture of food material and apparatus for use in this method

A system and method for providing a compositional measurement of a mixture having entrained gas

A method and apparatus for determining at least one characteristic of a fluid flowing within a pipe is provided. The fluid flow may include one or more liquid component bodies and one or more gas component bodies, which bodies occupy a substantial cross-sectional area of the pipe when passing a location in the pipe. The method includes, and the apparatus includes elements operable to perform, the steps of: 1) transmitting a signal into the fluid flow at the location within the pipe, and receiving the signal after it has traversed at least a portion of the fluid flow; 2) determining a time of flight of the signal traversing the fluid flow; 3) determining the presence of a liquid component body at the location in the pipe, using the determined time of flight; and 4) determining at least one characteristic of the fluid using fluid data generated if the liquid component body is present at the location.

Integrated acoustic phase separator and multiphase fluid composition monitoring apparatus and method

An apparatus (10) and method for down hole gas separation (18) from the multiphase fluid (16) flowing in a wellbore or a pipe, for determining the quantities of the individual components of the liquid and the flow rate of the liquid, and for remixing the component parts of the fluid after which the gas volume may be measured, without affecting the flow stream, are described. Acoustic radiation force is employed to separate gas from the liquid, thereby permitting measurements to be separately made for these two components; the liquid (oil/water) composition is determined from ultrasonic resonances (32); and the gas volume is determined from capacitance measurements (44). Since the fluid flows around and through the component parts of the apparatus, there is little pressure difference, and no protection is required from high pressure differentials.

Method and arrangement for analysis of a material flow

The invention relates to a method and to an arrangement for analysis of a material flow (S) which consists of one or more material components. The material flow (S) is conducted via a conveyor line. One or more acoustic sensors (6-11) are allocated to the conveyor line. Acoustic signals produced by the material flow (S) are detected by the acoustic sensor(s) (6-11) and then converted into digital signals. The digital signals are analyzed in an evaluating unit in a computer-assisted manner and analyzed by means of an algorithm in comparison to reference values specified based on individual identifying characteristics of the material components, such that the material components are identified and the mass fraction of at least one material component in the material flow (S) is determined.

METHOD OF DETERMINING THE TEXTURE OF FOOD MATERIAL AND APPARATUS FOR USE IN THIS METHOD

The invention relates to a method of determining the texture of food material, comprising the steps of applying a vibrational impact with a predetermined frequency to the food material, measuring the vibrational response of the food material to the vibrational impact, and comparing the vibrational response with at least one reference value, determined prior to the measurement. The food material is in a liquid or a semi-solid state and/or contained within a container body (16), such as a pipe. In a second aspect, the invention relates to an apparatus (10) for determining the texture of food material, wherein the apparatus comprises a device (12) for generating a vibrational impact, such as a piezo actuator, a device (14) for measuring vibrations, such as a vibrometer, a holding mechanism, comprising a container body (16) for containing the food material therein or a string to attach the food material thereto, and an analyser for comparing measured vibrations with at least one reference value ...

MULTI-PHASE ULTRASONIC PIPE FLOW METER

A system for determining densities and pro-portions of phases in a multi-phase fluid flow (MFF) that can include an oil phase, a water phase, and a gas phase from a well. The system includes a first density sensor that senses the MFF at locations where the phases of the MFF are often separated, a second density sensor senses the MFF from the output of a phase mixer- homogenizer, and a third density sensor that senses, in real time, the MFF where the gas phase starts to separate or has separated from the liquid phase but where the liquid phases have not separated. The system also includes one or more processors for executing one or more programs to determine a density of the oil phase, a density of the water phase, a density of the gas phase, and proportions of phases including a water cut and a gas volume fraction based on readings from the first, second, and third density sensors.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THE DOWNHOLE IN-SITU DETERMINATION OF THE SPEED OF SOUND IN A FORMATION FLUID

An apparatus and a method for measuring a speed of sound in a fluid in a well bore may include a frame adapted to receive the fluid there through are provided. The apparatus includes an acoustic source mounted on the frame; an acoustic detector to measure a signal propagating through the fluid, the acoustic detector disposed proximate the frame at a known distance from the acoustic source; and a test circuit adapted to synchronize the acoustic detector with a signal propagating through the frame. A method to determine physical properties of a fluid in a geological formation including a shear wave anisotropy in the geological formation and the formation composition using the fluid density and the fluid speed of sound is also provided.

СПОСОБ И СИСТЕМА ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ ХАРАКТЕРИСТИК КОНСИСТЕНЦИИ ПИЩЕВОГО МАТЕРИАЛА

Способ определения характеристик консистенции пищевого материала, который имеет переменные характеристики консистенции, включает прикладывание по меньшей мере одного вибрационного импульса с частотой в пределах заданного диапазона частот и с заданной продолжительностью во времени к испытываемому образцу пищевого материала внутри контейнера для создания по меньшей мере одного экспериментального вибрационного отклика; измерение по меньшей мере одного экспериментального вибрационного отклика испытываемого образца по меньшей мере на один вибрационный импульс; и сравнение по меньшей мере одного экспериментального вибрационного отклика по меньшей мере с одной опорной величиной вибрационного отклика, полученной по меньшей мере от одного калибровочного образца пищевого материала, который имеет известные характеристики консистенции, с определением тем самым характеристик консистенции испытываемого образца, в котором множество вибрационных импульсов с переменными заданными частотами и заданными дискретными ...

Standardizing diffusion of a fluid into tissue

Disclosed are a system and method for evaluating a tissue sample that has been removed from a subject. Movement of fluid through the tissue sample is monitored by measuring time of flight of acoustic waves passed through the tissue sample. A system for performing the method can include a transmitter that outputs the energy and a receiver configured to detect the transmitted energy. Using the disclosed method and system, an optimized protocol for ensuring adequate distribution of the fluid throughout a variety of tissue types and/or sample sizes can be developed and utilized.

СПОСОБ ИССЛЕДОВАНИЯ МНОГОКОМПОНЕНТНОЙ ЖИДКОСТИ

Изобретение относится к области оценки качества жидких продуктов. Способ исследования многокомпонентной жидкости заключается в том, что предопределенный объем исследуемой жидкости в виде капли при заданных условиях окружающей среды располагают на жесткой подложке, выполненной с возможностью возбуждения в упомянутой капле колебаний сдвига, возбуждают в упомянутой капле исследуемой жидкости колебания сдвига в ультразвуковом диапазоне частот и определяют механический импеданс капли исследуемой жидкости. Упомянутую каплю сушат, а механический импеданс определяют в процессе высыхания капли и регистрируют полученную в процессе высыхания капли динамику упомянутого механического импеданса, которую используют в качестве информативного параметра, после чего полученную динамику механического импеданса сравнивают с динамикой механического импеданса ранее исследованного эталонного образца. При этом упомянутая жесткая подложка может быть использована как резонатор, а механический импеданс определяют ...

Многофазный ультразвуковой расходомер для трубопроводов

Multi-phase ultrasonic pipe flow meter

Method of determining the texture of food material and apparatus for use in this method

MATERIALS AND METHODS FOR STANDARDIZING DIFFUSION OF A FLUID INTO TISSUES

The subject disclosure presents systems and methods for evaluating a tissue sample that has been removed from a subject. Movement of fluid through the tissue sample is monitored by measuring time of flight of acoustic waves passed through the tissue sample. A system for performing the method can include a transmitter that outputs the energy and a receiver configured to detect the transmitted energy. Using the methods and systems, an optimized protocol for ensuring adequate distribution of the fluid throughout a variety of tissues can be developed.

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR NON-INVASIVELY DETERMINING PROPERTIES OF A MULTIPHASE FLOW

The invention relates to a method for the non-invasive determination of a properties of a multi-phase current which flows through an electrically conductive object (2), wherein at least one property of the multi-phase current is determined by at least one of a plurality of measurement methods using a single set-up having a plurality of EMAT transducers (10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 24, 24', 32, 32', 42, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d, 44e, 44f, 44g, 44h, 48, 50). The invention further relates to a device for the non-invasive determination of properties of a multi-phase current which flows through an electrically conductive object (2), comprising at least four EMAT transducers (10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 24, 24', 32, 32', 48) to be positioned upstream along a first object cross section or near the object wall (4) and at least four EMAT transducers (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 24, 24', 32, 32', 48) to be positioned downstream along a second object cross-section or near the object wall (4).

PROCESS CONTROL USING A PHASED ARRAY ULTRASOUND PROBE

A method for controlling a process stream (4) including particles, bubbles, droplets or phase boundaries, comprises detecting interfaces, such as solid-liquid, liquid-liquid, and gas liquid that are present in the process stream under a set of conditions using a phased array ultrasound probe (1), reconstructing an image of the interfaces, and providing the image, or information derived therefrom, to a control system (2,3). The control system either modifies or maintains the set of conditions in process stream. The method may be used for controlling an industrial process stream, such as a process stream in a chemical or petrochemical processing plant.

A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A COMPOSITIONAL MEASUREMENT OF A MIXTURE HAVING ENTRAINED GAS

A method and apparatus for determining at least one characteristic of a fluid flowing within a pipe is provided. The fluid flow may include one or more liquid component bodies and one or more gas component bodies, which bodies occupy a substantial cross-sectional area of the pipe when passing a location in the pipe. The method includes, and the apparatus includes elements operable to perform, the steps of: 1) transmitting a signal into the fluid flow at the location within the pipe, and receiving the signal after it has traversed at least a portion of the fluid flow; 2) determining a time of flight of the signal traversing the fluid flow; 3) determining the presence of a liquid component body at the location in the pipe, using the determined time of flight; and 4) determining at least one characteristic of the fluid using fluid data generated if the liquid component body is present at the location.

Fluid Parameter Sensor And Meter

An example fluid parameter sensor and meter is disclosed to measure at least one parameter of a fluid. In an example, the fluid parameter meter includes an outer conduit, A sensor element assembly is disposed in the outer conduit and having a plurality of sensor elements to convey the fluid inside of the sensor element assembly. At least one mounting flexure is fixedly attached to the sensor element assembly and to the outer conduit. The at least one mounting flexure is configured to enable the sensor element assembly to vibrate in a radial motion. At least one vibration driver causes the sensor element assembly to vibrate in the radial motion. At least one vibration sensor senses the radial motion of the sensor element assembly. Controlling electronics measure at least one parameter of a fluid based on said radial motion.

Dialysis medical system with a portable control unit

This disclosure relates to detecting fluid in medical tubing. In certain aspects, a method is performed by a data processing apparatus. The method includes controlling repetitive activation of the ultrasonic transmitter. The method also includes receiving a signal from the ultrasonic receiver during an activation of the ultrasonic transmitter. The method also includes determining that fluid is absent or present in a portion of the medical fluid tube based on a comparison between the signal and a threshold value.

СПОСОБ ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ КОНСИСТЕНЦИИ ПИЩЕВОГО ПРОДУКТА И УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ РЕАЛИЗАЦИИ СПОСОБА

Изобретение относится к способу определения консистенции пищевого материала. Способ определения консистенции пищевого продукта содержит стадии, на которых осуществляют приложение вибрационного импульса с заданной частотой к пищевому материалу, измерение вибрационного отклика пищевого материала на вибрационный импульс и сравнение вибрационного отклика с опорной величиной, определенной перед измерением. Пищевой материал находится в жидком или полутвердом состоянии и содержится внутри контейнера. Устройство для определения консистенции пищевого материала содержит блок для генерирования вибрационного импульса, имеющий пьезоэлектрический исполнительный механизм, устройство для измерения вибраций, выполненное в виде виброметра, удерживающий механизм, содержащий контейнер для удерживания в нем пищевого материала или струну для прикрепления к ней пищевого материала, и анализатор для сравнения измеренных вибраций с опорной величиной, определенной перед измерением. Технический результат группы изобретений ...

ULTRASONIC FLOW DISCONTINUITY IDENTIFICATION

METHOD OF DETERMING THE TEXTURE OF FOOD MATERIAL AND APPARATUS FOR USE IN THIS METHOD

The invention relates to a method of determining the texture of food material, comprising the steps of applying a vibrational impact with a predetermined frequency to the food material, measuring the vibrational response of the food material to the vibrational impact, and comparing the vibrational response with at least one reference value, determined prior to the measurement. The food material is in a liquid or a semi-solid state and/or contained within a container body (16), such as a pipe. In a second aspect, the invention relates to an apparatus (10) for determining the texture of food material, wherein the apparatus comprises a device (12) for generating a vibrational impact, such as a piezo actuator, a device (14) for measuring vibrations, such as a vibrometer, a holding mechanism, comprising a container body (16) for containing the food material therein or a string to attach the food material thereto, and an analyser for comparing measured vibrations with at least one reference value ...

Method and apparatus for determination of food quality and authenticity

A method for analysis of a multi-component fluid is provided based on the features of the dynamics of the self-organization processes in drying drops. An electro-acoustic resonator is utilized, with a drop of multi-component fluid placed on one end of the resonator. A shear oscillation is imparting to the resonator along its longitudinal axis. And oscillating electric voltage is placed across the resonator generally perpendicular to the direction of mechanical oscillation. Changes in the electrical conductance corresponding to changes in the acoustical-mechanical impedance can thereby be measured as the drop of multi-component liquid dries. The particular geometry of an amplitude curve includes identifying the spatio-temporal development and phase transitions is used for integral estimation of food authenticity and quality.

СПОСОБ ОПРЕДЕЛЕНИЯ КОНСИСТЕНЦИИ ПИЩЕВОГО ПРОДУКТА И УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ РЕАЛИЗАЦИИ СПОСОБА

... 1. Способ определения характеристик консистенции пищевого материала, имеющего изменяющиеся характеристики консистенции, содержащий: ! приложение, по меньшей мере, одного вибрационного импульса с частотой внутри заданного диапазона частот и с заданной длительностью во времени к испытываемому образцу пищевого материала внутри контейнера для создания, по меньшей мере, одного экспериментального вибрационного отклика; ! измерение, по меньшей мере, одного экспериментального вибрационного отклика испытываемого образца, по меньшей мере, на один вибрационный импульс; и ! сравнение, по меньшей мере, одного экспериментального вибрационного отклика, по меньшей мере, с одной опорной величиной вибрационного отклика, полученной, по меньшей мере, от одного калибровочного образца пищевого материала, имеющего известные характеристики консистенции, с определением тем самым характеристик консистенции испытываемого образца. ! 2. Способ по п.1, в котором множество вибрационных импульсов с изменяющимися заданными ...

Verfahren und Anordnung zur Analyse eines Stoffstroms

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren und eine Anordnung zur Analyse eines Stoffstroms S, welcher aus einer oder mehrerer Stoffkomponenten besteht. Der Stoffstrom S wird über eine Förderstrecke 1 geführt. Der Förderstrecke 1 sind ein oder mehrere Schallsensoren 6–11 zugeordnet. Vom Stoffstrom S erzeugte akustische Signale werden von dem bzw. den Schallsensoren 6–11 erfasst und anschließend in digitale Signale umgewandelt. Die digitalen Signale werden in einer Auswerteeinheit rechnergestützt bewertet und mittels eines Algorithmus im Vergleich zu anhand von individuellen Erkennungsmerkmalen der Stoffkomponenten festgelegten Referenzwerten analysiert, so dass die Stoffkomponenten identifiziert sowie der Massenanteil von zumindest einer Stoffkomponente im Stoffstrom S bestimmt wird.

Method of determining the texture of food material and apparatus for use in this method

Abstract The invention relates to a method of determining the texture of food material, comprising the steps of applying a vibrational impact with a predetermined frequency to the food material, measuring the vibrational response of the food material to the vibrational impact, and comparing the vibrational response with at least one reference value, determined prior to the measurement. The food material is in a liquid or a semi-solid state and/or contained within a container body (16), such as a pipe. In a second aspect, the invention relates to an apparatus (10) for determining the texture of food material, wherein the apparatus comprises a device (12) for generating a vibrational impact, such as a piezo actuator, a device (14) for measuring vibrations, such as a vibrometer, a holding mechanism, comprising a container body (16) for containing the food material therein or a string to attach the food material thereto, and an analyser for comparing measured vibrations with at least one reference ...

INSPECTION OF BINDERS AND SLURRY MIXTURES FOR USE IN BATTERY FABRICATION BASED ON ACOUSTIC SIGNAL ANALYSIS

Systems, techniques, and computer-implemented processes for acoustic signal based improvements to one or more process steps in the manufacture of battery cells. Information gathered based on an acoustic signal based analysis in one process step can be used in one or more other process steps using any suitable combination of feedback and/or feedforward of the acoustic signal based analysis. Such feedback and/or feedforward can improve the overall quality of battery cells produced using the manufacturing process, efficiency/cost of the manufacturing process, improvement in yield/reduction in wastage of the battery cells produced using the manufacturing process and/or improvements in individual process steps.

Non-intrusive multiphase flow meter

A sensing apparatus

Materials and methods for standardizing diffusion of a fluid into tissues

The subject disclosure presents systems and methods for evaluating a tissue sample that has been removed from a subject. Movement of fluid through the tissue sample is monitored by measuring time of flight of acoustic waves passed through the tissue sample. A system for performing the method can include a transmitter that outputs the energy and a receiver configured to detect the transmitted energy. Using the methods and systems, an optimized protocol for ensuring adequate distribution of the fluid throughout a variety of tissues can be developed.

NON-INTRUSIVE MULTIPHASE FLOW METER

Embodiments of the present invention generally provide methods, apparatus, and systems for determining void fractions of individual phase components of a multiphase mixture. The void fractions may be determined based on measured parameters of the mixture as a whole, such as differential pressure, bulk velocity of the mixture and speed of sound in the mixture. According to some embodiments, the mixture parameters may be measured using non-intrusive fiber optic based sensors. Various other parameters may also be derived from the void fractions, such as individual phase flow rates, liquid holdup and watercut parameters (for oil and gas mixtures).

A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A COMPOSITIONAL MEASUREMENT OF A MIXTURE HAVING ENTRAINED GAS

A method and apparatus for determining at least one characteristic of a fluid flowing within a pipe is provided. The fluid flow may include one or more liquid component bodies and one or more gas component bodies, which bodies occupy a sub-stantial cross-sectional area of the pipe when passing a location in the pipe. The method includes, and the apparatus includes ele-ments operable to perform, the steps of: 1) transmitting a signal into the fluid flow at the location within the pipe, and receiving the signal after it has traversed at least a portion of the fluid flow; 2) determining a time of flight of the signal traversing the fluid flow; 3) determining the presence of a liquid component body at the location in the pipe, using the determined time of flight; and 4) determining at least one characteristic of the fluid using fluid data generated if the liquid component body is present at the loca-tion.

Submersible meter for measuring a parameter of gas hold-up of a fluid

A submersible meter is provided that measures the speed of sound propagating in an aerated fluid to determine any one of a plurality of parameters of the fluid, such as the gas holdup of the fluid (epsilon_b), the bubble size (d_b), the bubble surface area flux (S_b), and the flotation rate constant (k). The meter includes a spatial array of sensors disposed at predetermined axial locations x₁-X_N axially along a tube. The array of sensors provide acoustic pressure signals P₁(t)-P_N(t) to a transmitter which determines the speed of sound a_mix propagating through the aerated fluid in the tube using acoustic spatial array signal processing techniques. The submersible meter enables real time measurement of the bubble size, the bubble surface area flux and flotation rate constant, which enables real time monitoring of the efficiency and recovery rate of flotation machines. A control system is also provided using ...

Apparatus and method for non-intrusive pressure measurement and early identification of solids formation using selected guided ultrasonic wave modes

A method of measuring a pressure of a fluid adjacent a wall of a pipe or vessel. A transducer is attached to the wall of the pipe or vessel. A signal is transmitted by the transducer at a characteristic frequency via a plurality of guided wave modes. The characteristic frequency is a frequency at which the guided wave modes are separated in time from each other when received. The signal is received after the plurality of guided wave modes travel in or through the wall a predetermined number of times. The signal has a signal receipt time after the predetermined number of times. The pressure of the fluid is calculated using the signal receipt time.

Multi-phase ultrasonic pipe flow meter

Multi-phase ultrasonic pipe flow meter

A system for determining densities and proportions of phases in a multi-phase fluid flow (MFF) that can include an oil phase, a water phase, and a gas phase from a well. The system includes a first density sensor that senses the MFF at locations where the phases of the MFF are often separated, a second density sensor senses the MFF from the output of a phase mixer- homogenizer, and a third density sensor that senses, in real time, the MFF where the gas phase starts to separate or has separated from the liquid phase but where the liquid phases have not separated. The system also includes one or more processors for executing one or more programs to determine a density of the oil phase, a density of the water phase, a density of the gas phase, and proportions of phases including a water cut and a gas volume fraction based on readings from the first, second, and third density sensors.

MULTI-PHASE ULTRASONIC PIPE FLOW METER

A system for determining densities and proportions of phases in a multi-phase fluid flow (MFF) that can include an oil phase, a water phase, and a gas phase from a well. The system includes a first density sensor that senses the MFF at locations where the phases of the MFF are often separated, a second density sensor senses the MFF from the output of a phase mixer- homogenizer, and a third density sensor that senses, in real time, the MFF where the gas phase starts to separate or has separated from the liquid phase but where the liquid phases have not separated. The system also includes one or more processors for executing one or more programs to determine a density of the oil phase, a density of the water phase, a density of the gas phase, and proportions of phases including a water cut and a gas volume fraction based on readings from the first, second, and third density sensors.

Non-intrusive multiphase flow meter

Volumetric fractions of individual phases of a multiphase mixture flowing through a pipe are determined based on a determined density of the mixture and a measured speed of sound in the mixture. The density of the mixture may be determined by measuring a differential pressure between two locations along the pipe, measuring a bulk velocity of the mixture and estimating an amount of frictional loss based on the bulk velocity. The temperature and pressure of the mixture may also be measured and used to estimate the densities and speeds of sound for the individual phases which can then be used to determine the individual volumetric phase fractions. This method is particularly suitable for downhole production operations to determine the void fractions of oil, gas and water.

NON-INTRUSIVE MULTIPHASE FLOW METER

Embodiments of the present invention generally provide methods, apparatus, and systems for determining void fractions of individual phase components of a multiphase mixture. The void fractions may be determined based on measured parameters of the mixture as a whole, such as differential pressure, bulk velocity of the mixture and speed of sound in the mixture. According to some embodiments, the mixture parameters may be measured using non-intrusive fiber optic based sensors. Various other parameters may also be derived from the void fractions, such as individual phase flow rates, liquid holdup and watercut parameters (for oil and gas mixtures).

Non-intrusive multiphase flow meter

system and method for determining densities and amounts of phases and system to determine amount outputs from phases in a fluid stream of multiple phase

Multi-phase ultrasonic pipe flow meter

A system for determining densities and proportions of phases in a multi-phase fluid flow (MFF) that can include an oil phase, a water phase, and a gas phase from a well. The system includes a first density sensor that senses the MFF at locations where the phases of the MFF are often separated, a second density sensor senses the MFF from the output of a phase mixer-homogenizer, and a third density sensor that senses, in real time, the MFF where the gas phase starts to separate or has separated from the liquid phase but where the liquid phases have not separated. The system also includes one or more processors for executing one or more programs to determine a density of the oil phase, a density of the water phase, a density of the gas phase, and proportions of phases including a water cut and a gas volume fraction based on readings from the first, second, and third density sensors.

Ultrasonic flow discontinuity identification

A method of and apparatus for obtaining discontinuity and mass flow information comprises a Doppler-based system in which ultrasonic pulses reflected from discontinuities are converted into frequency spectra whereby the discontinuities may be identified by comparison with spectra from known discontinuities, and their concentration determined, and when combined with Doppler-obtained velocity information, the mass flow measured. The transducer 12 emits ultrasound energy at an angle other than 90 DEG to the flow so that Doppler information may be obtained from the reflected signal. ...

ULTRASONIC SENSING

PROCESS CONTROL USING A PHASED ARRAY ULTRASOUND PROBE

A method for controlling a process stream (4) including particles, bubbles, droplets or phase boundaries, comprises detecting interfaces, such as solid-liquid, liquid-liquid, and gas liquid that are present in the process stream under a set of conditions using a phased array ultrasound probe (1), reconstructing an image of the interfaces, and providing the image, or information derived therefrom, to a control system (2,3). The control system either modifies or maintains the set of conditions in process stream. The method may be used for controlling an industrial process stream, such as a process stream in a chemical or petrochemical processing plant.

INTEGRATED ACOUSTIC PHASE SEPARATOR AND MULTIPHASE FLUID COMPOSITION MONITORING APPARATUS AND METHOD

An apparatus and method for down hole gas separation from the multiphase fluid flowing in a wellbore or a pipe, for determining the quantities of the individual components of the liquid and the flow rate of the liquid, and for remixing the component parts of the fluid after which the gas volume may be measured, without affecting the flow stream, are described. Acoustic radiation force is employed to separate gas from the liquid, thereby permitting measurements to be separately made for these two components; the liquid (oil/water) composition is determined from ultrasonic resonances; and the gas volume is determined from capacitance measurements. Since the fluid flows around and through the component parts of the apparatus, there is little pressure difference, and no protection is required from high pressure differentials.

Non-intrusive multiphase flow meter

Embodiments of the present invention generally provide methods, apparatus, and systems for determining void fractions of individual phase components of a multiphase mixture. The void fractions may be determined based on measured parameters of the mixture as a whole, such as differential pressure, bulk velocity of the mixture and speed of sound in the mixture. According to some embodiments, the mixture parameters may be measured using non-intrusive fiber optic based sensors. Various other parameters may also be derived from the void fractions, such as individual phase flow rates, liquid holdup and watercut parameters (for oil and gas mixtures).

Mixture monitoring

A method for monitoring a mixing ratio of a mixture of materials 206 flowing through a conduit 202 in a composite material production process. The conduit is arranged between an inlet for receiving the mixture and a curing assembly 207. The method comprises: obtaining an acoustic signature of the mixture of materials; controlling a transducer 204a to emit an acoustic wave 208 into the conduit; controlling a receiver 209 to detect the acoustic wave after propagation of the acoustic wave through the conduit; and comparing an acoustic signature of the detected acoustic wave with the earlier obtained acoustic signature to obtain monitoring data. Apparatus for performing the method is provided. The acoustic signature may be time of flight of the wave.

Method and apparatus for acoustic fluid analysis

Method and apparatus for the downhole in-situ determination of the speed of sound in a formation fluid

An apparatus and a method for measuring a speed of sound in a fluid in a well bore may include a frame adapted to receive the fluid there through are provided. The apparatus includes an acoustic source mounted on the frame; an acoustic detector to measure a signal propagating through the fluid, the acoustic detector disposed proximate the frame at a known distance from the acoustic source; and a test circuit adapted to synchronize the acoustic detector with a signal propagating through the frame. A method to determine physical properties of a fluid in a geological formation including a shear wave anisotropy in the geological formation and the formation composition using the fluid density and the fluid speed of sound is also provided.

Magneto-acoustic resonance sensor

Apparatus for measuring parameters of a flowing multiphase mixture

An apparatus 10 is provided that measures the speed of sound propagating in a multiphase mixture to determine parameters, such as mixture quality, particle size, vapor/mass ratio, liquid/vapor ratio, mass flow rate, enthalpy and volumetric flow rate of the flow in a pipe or unconfined space, for example, using acoustic and/or dynamic pressures. The apparatus includes a pair of ultrasonic transducers disposed axially along the pipe for measuring the transit time of an ultrasonic signal to propagate from one ultrasonic transducer to the other ultrasonic transducer. A signal process, responsive to said transit time signal, provides a signal representative of the speed of sound of the mixture. An SOS processing unit then provides an output signal indicative of at least one parameter of the mixture flowing through the pipe. The frequency of the ultrasonic signal is sufficiently low to minimize scatter from particle/liquid within the mixture. The frequency based sound speed is determined utilizing ...

Materials and methods for standardizing diffusion of a fluid into tissues

The subject disclosure presents systems and methods for evaluating a tissue sample that has been removed from a subject. Movement of fluid through the tissue 5 sample is monitored by measuring time of flight of acoustic waves passed through the tissue sample. A system for performing the method can include a transmitter that outputs the energy and a receiver configured to detect the transmitted energy. Using the methods and systems, an optimized protocol for ensuring adequate distribution of the fluid throughout a variety of tissues can be developed. P268202D1_23123255_1 ...

VIBRONIC MULTISENSOR

Materials and methods for standardizing diffusion of a fluid into tissues

The subject disclosure presents systems and methods for evaluating a tissue sample that has been removed from a subject. Movement of fluid through the tissue 5 sample is monitored by measuring time of flight of acoustic waves passed through the tissue sample. A system for performing the method can include a transmitter that outputs the energy and a receiver configured to detect the transmitted energy. Using the methods and systems, an optimized protocol for ensuring adequate distribution of the fluid throughout a variety of tissues can be developed. P268202D1_23123255_1 ...

Integrated acoustic phase separator and multiphase fluid composition monitoring apparatus and method

An apparatus (10) and method for down hole gas separation (18) from the multiphase fluid (16) flowing in a wellbore or a pipe, for determining the quantities of the individual components of the liquid and the flow rate of the liquid, and for remixing the component parts of the fluid after which the gas volume may be measured, without affecting the flow stream, are described. Acoustic radiation force is employed to separate gas from the liquid, thereby permitting measurements to be separately made for these two components; the liquid (oil/water) composition is determined from ultrasonic resonances (32); and the gas volume is determined from capacitance measurements (44). Since the fluid flows around and through the component parts of the apparatus, there is little pressure difference, and no protection is required from high pressure differentials.

ANALYTICAL SENSOR SYSTEM FOR FIELD USE

A piezoelectric analytical sensor system is provided that includes a piezoelectric crystal having a sensing surface. The piezoelectric crystal is driven at a base oscillation frequency that is responsive to an analyte interacting with the sensing surface of the crystal. A crystal resonator in mechanical communication with the crystal drives the crystal at the base oscillation frequency. An electronic circuit is provided for measuring a vibrational frequency of the crystal and relating the vibrational frequency to a quantity of the analyte in contact with the sensing surface of the piezoelectric crystal. A modular interface in electrical communication with the electronic circuit is provided to engage an electronic device and derive power from that electronic device.

Non-intrusive detection of pipe parameters using selected guided acoustic wave modes

Methods and systems for measuring pipe parameters using guided acoustic wave modes are provided. The method includes receiving data corresponding to an acoustic signal, wherein the data are obtained by transmitting an excitation pulse at a specified frequency and detecting the resulting acoustic signal using an acoustic transducer attached to the outer surface of the pipe wall. The method includes analyzing the data to identify guided acoustic wave modes including at least two of: a C-SH acoustic wave mode that travels within the pipe wall; a C-LT acoustic wave mode that travels within the near-surface region of the pipe wall; and/or a CA acoustic wave mode that travels within the pipe cavity. The method includes calibrating the parameter measurement using the C-SH acoustic wave mode and determining the parameter measurement based on the phase velocity and/or the amplitude of the C-LT acoustic wave mode and/or the CA acoustic wave mode.

A system and method for providing a compositional measurement of a mixture having entrained gas

Materials and methods for standardizing diffusion of a fluid into tissues

The subject disclosure presents systems and methods for evaluating a tissue sample that has been removed from a subject. Movement of fluid through the tissue sample is monitored by measuring time of flight of acoustic waves passed through the tissue sample. A system for performing the method can include a transmitter that outputs the energy and a receiver configured to detect the transmitted energy. Using the methods and systems, an optimized protocol for ensuring adequate distribution of the fluid throughout a variety of tissues can be developed.

A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A COMPOSITIONAL MEASUREMENT OF A MIXTURE HAVING ENTRAINED GAS

A method and apparatus for determining at least one characteristic of a fluid flowing within a pipe is provided. The fluid flow may include one or more liquid component bodies and one or more gas component bodies, which bodies occupy a substantial cross-sectional area of the pipe when passing a location in the pipe. The method includes, and the apparatus includes elements operable to perform, the steps of: 1) transmitting a signal into the fluid flow at the location within the pipe, and receiving the signal after it has traversed at least a portion of the fluid flow; 2) determining a time of flight of the signal traversing the fluid flow; 3) determining the presence of a liquid component body at the location in the pipe, using the determined time of flight; and 4) determining at least one characteristic of the fluid using fluid data generated if the liquid component body is present at the location.

Analytical sensor system for field use

A piezoelectric analytical sensor system is provided that includes a piezoelectric crystal having a sensing surface. The piezoelectric crystal is driven at a base oscillation frequency that is responsive to an analyte interacting with the sensing surface of the crystal. A crystal resonator in mechanical communication with the crystal drives the crystal at the base oscillation frequency. An electronic circuit is provided for measuring a vibrational frequency of the crystal and relating the vibrational frequency to a quantity of the analyte in contact with the sensing surface of the piezoelectric crystal. A modular interface in electrical communication with the electronic circuit is provided to engage an electronic device and derive power from that electronic device.

Method of, and apparatus for, measuring the physical properties of two-phase fluids

There is provided a method of measuring the physical properties of a two-phase fluid using at least one piezoelectric oscillator immersed in the two-phase fluid, the two-phase fluid comprising a gas fraction and a liquid fraction, the method comprising: a) measuring the resonant frequency of the or each piezoelectric oscillator as a function of time; and b) determining, from the or each resonant frequency, at least one physical property of the two-phase fluid to characterize the two-phase fluid.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ACOUSTIC FLUID ANALYSIS

A method is provided for analyzing suspending particulate and liquid medium in a fluid stream by transmitting acoustic signals into the fluid, detecting the scattered acoustic energy, and determining a parameter related to the density and compressibility of the fluid. In one embodiment, the fluid analysis tool comprises two transmitting transducers (12,18) intermittently emitting acoustic signals, and two receiving transducers (14,16) being differently azimuthally positioned with respect to the transmitters (12,18). The ratio of the amplitude of scattered signals measured by the two receivers (14,16) as a result of emission from the first and second transmitters (12,18) are used to calculate the parameter. In another embodiment, a tool comprising one transmitter and at least three receivers with azimuthal angles in both forward and backward scattering regions with respect to the incident wave is disclosed. The scattering signal amplitudes normalized by the amplitude from one of the receivers ...

Verfahren zur Bestimmung des Partialdrucks oder einer Konzentration eines Dampfes

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur Bestimmung des Partialdrucks oder der Konzentration eines Dampfes in einem Volumen (2), wobei eine Sensoroberfläche (6) eines mit einer Oszillationsfrequenz oszillierenden Sensorkörpers (5) auf eine Temperatur temperiert wird, bei der der Dampf unter Ausbildung einer stetig anwachsenden, die Oszillationsfrequenz beeinflussenden Massenanhäufung auf der Sensoroberfläche (6) kondensiert. Zur Erhöhung der Standzeit wird vorgeschlagen, dass die Temperatur so gewählt ist, dass beim Unterschreiten eines Grenzpartialdrucks oder einer Grenzkonzentration des Dampfes im Volumen (2) die Massenanhäufung abnimmt. Die Massenänderung für die Zeit (t) eines Prozessschrittes, in dem der Dampf durch die Transportleitung (1) strömt oder sich im Volumen (2) befindet, wächst an und nimmt in einer Prozesspause (t) zwischen zwei Prozessschritten, in der kein Dampf durch die Transportleitung (1) strömt oder sich im Volumen (2) befindet, bis auf Null ab.

METHOD OF, AND APPARATUS FOR, MEASURING THE PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF TWO-PHASE FLUIDS

There is provided a method of measuring the physical properties of a two-phase fluid using at least one piezoelectric oscillator immersed in the two-phase fluid, the two-phase fluid comprising a gas fraction and a liquid fraction, the method comprising: a) measuring the resonant frequency of the or each piezoelectric oscillator as a function of time; and b) determining, from the or each resonant frequency, at least one physical property of the two-phase fluid to characterise the two-phase fluid.

음향 상분리기 및 다상 유체의 조성 모니터링이 일체화된 장치 및 방법

... 유동 스트림(flow stream)에 영향을 주지 않으면서, 유정 시추공 또는 파이프에 유동하는 다상 유체(multiphase fluid; 16)로부터 지하의 기체를 분리(18)하고, 액체의 개별적 성분의 양과 액체의 유동률(flow rate)을 결정하고, 유체의 성분 요소들을 재혼합하여 이후 기체의 볼륨(volume)을 측정하기 위한 장치(10) 및 방법에 관해 기술되어 있다. 음향 방사력(acoustic radiation force)이 액체로부터 기체를 분리하기 위해 사용되며, 이로써 다음 두 성분을 각각 측정할 수 있다; 액체(오일/물)의 조성은 초음파 공진(32)으로부터 결정되고; 기체의 볼륨은 캐패시턴스 측정(44)으로부터 결정된다. 유체가 장치의 구성 부분들을 통해서 유동하고 그 주변으로도 유동하기 때문에, 압력의 차이가 거의 없게 되어, 높은 압력 차이로부터의 보호가 필요 없다.

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR NON-INVASIVELY DETERMINING PROPERTIES OF A MULTIPHASE FLOW

A method is provided for non-invasively determining properties of a multiphase flow which flows through an electrically conductive object. Using a single set-up having a plurality of EMAT transducers, at least one property of the multiphase flow is determined by means of at least one of a plurality of measurement methods. A device is also provided for non-invasively determining properties of a multiphase flow which flows through an electrically conductive object. At least four EMAT transducers are positionable upstream along a first object cross-section at or near the object wall and at least four EMAT transducers are positionable downstream along a second object cross-section at or near the object wall.

VIBRONIC MULTISENSOR

A method for determining and/or monitoring a concentration of maltodextrin and/or maltose in a mashing process comprises method steps as follows: 18-. (canceled)9. A method for determining and/or monitoring a concentration of maltodextrin and/or maltose in a mashing process , comprising:providing a mash;heating the mash to at least one predeterminable temperature;determining the density of the mash;determining the velocity of sound in the mash;ascertaining a concentration of maltodextrin and maltose in the mash; andascertaining the concentration of maltodextrin and/or maltose in the mash.10. The method as claimed in claim 9 , further comprising:determining a temperature of the mash.11. The method as claimed in claim 10 ,wherein an influence of temperature is taken into consideration in determining density and/or velocity of sound.12. The method as claimed in claim 9 ,wherein concentration of sum of maltodextrin and maltose in the mash is ascertained based on density.13. The method as claimed in claim 9 ,wherein ratio of maltodextrin and maltose is ascertained based on velocity of sound in the mash.14. The method as claimed in claim 13 ,wherein concentration of maltodextrin and/or maltose is ascertained based on the ratio of maltodextrin and maltose.15. The method as claimed in claim 13 , further comprising:comparing at least one value for the velocity of sound in the mash with at least one reference value or with a value of a characteristic line for the velocity of sound of maltodextrin and/or maltose as a function of concentration of maltodextrin and/or maltose.16. The method as claimed in claim 9 , a sensor unit is excited by means of a excitation signal to execute mechanical oscillations,', 'the mechanical oscillations are received by the sensor unit and converted into a first received signal,', 'a transmitted signal is transmitted from the sensor unit and a second received signal received by the sensor unit, and', 'density is ascertained based on the first ...

método e aparelho para determinar as propriedade de um fluido de multifases

aparelho para medir a velocidade do som em um líquido em um poço do furo, método para determinar a velocidade de fluido do som e método para determinar as propriedades físicas de um fluido em uma formação geológica

DIALYSIS MEDICAL SYSTEM WITH A PORTABLE CONTROL UNIT

This disclosure relates to detecting fluid in medical tubing. In certain aspects, a method is performed by a data processing apparatus. The method includes controlling repetitive activation of the ultrasonic transmitter. The method also includes receiving a signal from the ultrasonic receiver during an activation of the ultrasonic transmitter. The method also includes determining that fluid is absent or present in a portion of the medical fluid tube based on a comparison between the signal and a threshold value.

Determining the microstructure and properties of materials using acoustic signal processing

An apparatus, system, program product, and method are disclosed for determining the microstructure and properties of materials using acoustic signal processing. An apparatus includes a one or more sensors for sensing information describing a multiphase material using sound waves. The apparatus includes a processor operably coupled to the one or more sensors and a memory that stores code executable by the processor. The code is executable by the processor to receive sound-wave input from the one or more sensors, perform one or more quantitative analyses on the received sound-wave input in the frequency domain, and determine a microstructure of the multiphase material based on results from the one or more quantitative analyses.

폴리카보네이트 조성물의 제조 방법

... 폴리카보네이트의 연속 제조 방법으로서, 상기 연속 제조 방법은, 방향족 디하이드록시 화합물 스트림 및 디아릴 카보네이트 스트림을 결합하여 혼합물을 형성하는 단계; 상기 방향족 디하이드록시 화합물에 대한 상기 디아릴 카보네이트의 중량비 또는 몰비를 제어하는 단계로서, 상기 제어 단계의 작동 온도에서 상기 혼합물 내에서의 음속(Vs)을 측정함으로써 상기 중량비 또는 몰비를 제어하는 단계; 및 상기 혼합물 내의 상기 방향족 디하이드록시 화합물에 대한 상기 디아릴 카보네이트의 중량비 또는 몰비를 결정하는 단계; 및 상기 방향족 디하이드록시 화합물 스트림 및 상기 디아릴 카보네이트 스트림 중 1종 이상의 유량을 조절하여, 필요한 경우, 상기 방향족 디하이드록시 화합물에 대한 상기 디아릴 카보네이트의 목적하는 중량비 또는 몰비에 도달하는 단계; 및 촉매의 존재하에서 상기 방향족 디하이드록시 화합물 및 상기 디아릴 카보네이트를 중합하여 상기 폴리카보네이트를 제조하는 단계를 포함한다.

INTEGRATED ACOUSTIC PHASE SEPARATOR AND MULTIPHASE FLUID COMPOSITION MONITORING APPARATUS AND METHOD

SENSOR, BIOREACTOR, MICROBIAL FUEL CELL AND METHOD FOR MEASURING AND UTILIZING EFFECTS OF VIBRATIONS AND/OR FIELDS ON A MICRO-ORGANISM IN ORDER TO INFLUENCE A MICRO-ORGANISM

The invention relates to a sensor for measuring effects of vibrations and/or fields on a micro-organism, comprising: - an anolyte space for containing a micro-organism and an anolyte; - an anode placed in the anolyte space for receiving electrons originating from the micro-organism; - a catholyte space; and - a cathode placed in the catholyte space, wherein the anode and the cathode are operatively connected such that a current and/or current difference is measurable as a result of an applied vibration or an electric and/or magnetic field.

METHOD OF, AND APPARATUS FOR, MEASURING THE PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF TWO-PHASE FLUID FLOW

There is provided a method of measuring the physical properties of a two-phase fluid using at least one piezoelectric oscillator immersed in the two-phase fluid, the two-phase fluid comprising a gas fraction and a liquid fraction, the method comprising: a) measuring the resonant frequency of the or each piezoelectric oscillator as a function of time; and b) determining, from the or each resonant frequency, at least one physical property of the two-phase fluid to characterise the two-phase fluid.

METHOD FOR STUDYING LIQUID AND DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT SAID METHOD

The invention relates to physical chemistry and can be used for the screening quality evaluation of multicomponent liquid products, in particular for analysing the conformity to standards of various technical liquids, pharmaceutical preparations, food products and biological liquids used in pharmaceutical, food and chemical industries and for medical diagnosis. The inventive method consists in determining the mechanical impedance of a drop (1) of studied liquid. Said drop has a predetermined volume of 5 mkl and is arranged on the surface of a piezoelectric ultrasonic frequency resonator (3) embodied in such a way that shear vibrations are exited in the drop (1) during the drying thereof. Thus obtained a time dependence of the mechanical impedance of the drop (1) is used as an informative parameter. Said selected informative parameter is very sensitive to the state of a liquid-crystalline structure of the multicomponent liquids. A comparison of the obtained time dependency with the analogue ...

A METHOD FOR FINDING AND DETERMINATION OF SUBSTANCES OR MIXTURES. DETERMINATION OF THEIR CHARACTERISTICS

The invention is related to a method for contactless finding and determination of the type of various substances and mixtures, as well as determining such their characteristics as concentration, hardness, and others, which is used in the military industry, in the guarding technique, etc. The method includes irradiation of the controlled object with either a wave impulse, or a series of such impulses ...

Method of, and apparatus for, measuring the physical properties of two-phase fluids

There is provided a method of measuring the physical properties of a two-phase fluid using at least one piezoelectric oscillator immersed in the two-phase fluid, the two-phase fluid comprising a gas fraction and a liquid fraction, the method comprising: (a) measuring the resonant frequency of the or each piezoelectric oscillator as a function of time; and (b) determining, from the or each resonant frequency, at least one physical property of the two-phase fluid to characterise the two-phase fluid.

APPARATUS FOR MEASURING PARAMETERS OF A FLOWING MULTIPHASE MIXTURE

An apparatus 10 is provided that measures the Speed of sound propagating in a multiphase mixture to determine parameters, such as mixture quality, particle size, vapor/mass ratio, liquid/vapor ratio, mass flow rate, enthalpy and volumetric flow rate of the flow in a pipe or unconfined space, for example, using acoustic and/or dynamic pressures. The apparatus includes a pair of ultrasonic transducers disposed axially along the pipe for measuring the transit time of an ultrasonic signal to propagate from one ultrasonic transducer to the other ultrasonic transducer. A signal process, responsive to said transit time signal, provides a signal representative of the speed of sound of the mixture. An SOS processing unit then provides an output signal indicative of at least one Parameter of the mixture flowing through the pipe. The frequency of the ultrasonic signal is sufficiently low to minimize scatter from particle/liquid within the mixture. The frequency based sound speed is determined utilizing ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MEASURING ACOUSTIC WAVE TO MEASURE ACOUSTIC WAVE TRANSFER VELOCITY AND ACOUSTIC ATTENUATION OF SEDIMENT SAMPLE

The present invention relates to a method and a system for measuring an acoustic wave to measure an acoustic wave transfer velocity and acoustic attenuation of a sediment sample. According to the present invention, the method for measuring an acoustic wave comprises: a step of mounting a sediment sample on a sample mounting unit including piezoelectric transducers; a step of transmitting an acoustic wave signal generated by an acoustic wave signal generation module to the sediment sample; a step of receiving the acoustic wave signal from the sediment sample; a step of measuring physical property information for the sediment sample from the received acoustic wave signal; and a step of outputting the measured physical property information by a measured information output module, and storing the measured physical property information in a measured information storage module. The physical property information includes acoustic wave transfer velocity and acoustic attenuation information. COPYRIGHT ...

Method of, and apparatus for, measuring the physical properties of two-phase fluids

Method and apparatus for determination of food quality and authenticity

A method for analysis of a multi-component fluid is provided based on the features of the dynamics of the self-organization processes in drying drops. An electro-acoustic resonator is utilized, with a drop of multi-component fluid placed on one end of the resonator. A shear oscillation is imparting to the resonator along its longitudinal axis. And oscillating electric voltage is placed across the resonator generally perpendicular to the direction of mechanical oscillation. Changes in the electrical conductance corresponding to changes in the acoustical-mechanical impedance can thereby be measured as the drop of multi-component liquid dries. The particular geometry of an amplitude curve includes identifying the spatio-temporal development and phase transitions is used for integral estimation of food authenticity and quality.

MAGNETIC ACOUSTIC RESONATOR SENSOR for non-invasive glucose monitoring

Method for studying liquid and device for carrying out said method

The present invention relates to physical chemistry and can be used for a quality test of liquids, in particular, multi-component liquid products, to ascertain the conformity of various process liquids, pharmaceutical preparations, foodstuffs, biological liquids to standard in pharmacology, food processing and chemical industries, and in medical diagnostics. The method of invention enables determining of the mechanical impedance within a drop (1) of test liquid having a specified volume, in the preferred embodiment, 5 mcl, placed on the surface of a piezoelectric resonator (3) of ultrasound frequencies, which provides for excitation of shear modes within drop (1) while it is drying up. The obtained time dependence of the mechanical impedance of drop (1) is used as the information parameter. This information parameter is rather sensitive to the state of the liquid-crystalline structure of multi-component liquids, therefore, comparing the obtained time dependence with the same data for the ...

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zur nichtinvasiven Bestimmung von Eigenschaften eines Multiphasenstroms

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur nichtinvasiven Bestimmung von Eigenschaften eines Multiphasenstromes, der durch ein elektrisch leitendes Objekt (2) strömt, wobei unter Verwendung eines einzigen Setups mit einer Mehrzahl von EMAT-Wandlern (10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 24, 24', 32, 32', 42, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d, 44e, 44f, 44g, 44h, 48, 50) zumindest eine Eigenschaft des Multiphasenstroms durch zumindest eine von mehreren Messmethoden bestimmt wird. Des Weiteren betrifft die Erfindung eine Vorrichtung zur nichtinvasiven Bestimmung von Eigenschaften eines Multiphasenstromes, der durch ein elektrisch leitendes Objekt (2) strömt, umfassend zumindest vier stromaufwärts entlang eines ersten Objektquerschnitts an oder nahe der Objektwand (4) zu positionierende EMAT-Wandler (10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 24, 24', 32, 32', 48) sowie zumindest vier stromabwärts entlang eines zweiten Objektquerschnitts an oder nahe der Objektwand (4) zu positionierende EMAT-Wandler (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 24, 24 ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A FLUID CUT MEASUREMENT OF A MULTI-LIQUID MIXTURE COMPENSATED FOR ENTRAINED GAS

An apparatus for determining a fluid cut measurement of a multi-liquid mixture includes a first device (9) configured to sense at least one parameter of the mixture to determine a fluid cut of a liquid in the mixture. A second device (5) is configured to determine a concentration of gas in the mixture in response to a speed of sound in the mixture; and a signal processor (24) is configured to adjust the fluid cut of the liquid using the concentration of the gas to determine a compensated fluid cut of the liquid. The parameter of the mixture sensed by the first device may include a density of the mixture (e.g., by way of a Coriolis meter), a permittivity of the mixture (e.g. , by way of a resonant microwave oscillator) , or an amount of microwave energy absorbed by the mixture (e.g., by way of a microwave abosorption watercut meter) . The signal processor may employ different correction factors depending on the type of a fluid cut device used. The second device may include a gas volume fraction ...

DUAL ACOUSTIC AND ELECTRICAL ANALYSIS TECHNIQUE FOR THE TOMOGRAPHIC DETERMINATION OF MULTIPHASE FLOWS IN PIPES AND/OR LIQUID/FROTH INTERFACES IN PROCESS TANKS

Apparatus is provided featuring a signal processor or processing module configured to: receive signaling containing information about at least two sensing modalities sensed by a single probe arranged in relation to a multiphase flow or process volume; and determine using a multiple modality tomographic analysis technique information about different fluid layers in the multiphase flow or process volume, based at least partly on the signaling received. The signal processor or processing module may be configured to provide corresponding signaling containing corresponding information about different fluid layers in the multiphase flow or process volume.

MAGNETIC ACOUSTIC RESONATOR SENSOR

A sensing apparatus comprising: a resonator, a sensor and a detector, the sensor being mechanically coupled to the resonator, the sensor comprising a sensor material which changes between a first state and a second state when exposed to a change in the surrounding environment, wherein the sensor is driven by the resonator and the detector is responsive to the change in state of the sensor material, wherein the sensor material is in the form of an acoustically thick layer.

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zum Bestimmen von zumindest einer Eigenschaft eines Fluidgemischs

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren und eine Vorrichtung zum Bestimmen von zumindest einer Eigenschaft eines Fluids, insbesondere eines Fluidgemischs aus Kraftstoff und Additiv für eine Brennkraftmaschine eines Fahrzeugs. Das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren umfasst ein Aussenden eines Quellschallsignals in das Fluid, ein Empfangen eines Empfangssignals, das dem zumindest teilweise durch das Fluid gelangenden Quellschallsignal entspricht, ein Ermitteln einer Dämpfungscharakteristik und/oder einer Phasenverschiebungscharakteristik zwischen dem Quellschallsignal und dem Empfangssignal und ein Bestimmen der zumindest einen Eigenschaft des Fluids zumindest teilweise basierend auf der ermittelten Dämpfungscharakteristik und/oder der ermittelten Phasenverschiebungscharakteristik.

APPARATUS FOR MEASURING PARAMETERS OF A FLOWING MULTIPHASE FLUID MIXTURE

An apparatus (10) is provided that measures the Speed of sound propagating in a multiphase mixture to determine parameters, such as mixture quality, particle size, vapor/mass ratio, liquid/vapor ratio, mass flow rate, enthalpy and volumetric flow rate of the flow in a pipe or unconfined space, for example, using acoustic and/or dynamic pressures. The apparatus includes a pair of ultrasonic transducers disposed axially along the pipe for measuring the transit time of an ultrasonic signal to propagate from one ultrasonic transducer to the other ultrasonic transducer. A signal process, responsive to said transit time signal, provides a signal representative of the speed of sound of the mixture. An SOS processing unit then provides an output signal indicative of at least one Parameter of the mixture flowing through the pipe. The frequency of the ultrasonic signal is sufficiently low to minimize scatter from particle/liquid within the mixture. The frequency based sound speed is determined utilizing ...

Apparatus for measuring parameters of a flowing multiphase mixture

An apparatus 10 is provided that measures the speed of sound propagating in a multiphase mixture to determine parameters, such as mixture quality, particle size, vapor/mass ratio, liquid/vapor ratio, mass flow rate, enthalpy and volumetric flow rate of the flow in a pipe or unconfined space, for example, using acoustic and/or dynamic pressures. The apparatus includes a pair of ultrasonic transducers disposed axially along the pipe for measuring the transit time of an ultrasonic signal to propagate from one ultrasonic transducer to the other ultrasonic transducer. A signal process, responsive to said transit time signal, provides a signal representative of the speed of sound of the mixture. An SOS processing unit then provides an output signal indicative of at least one parameter of the mixture flowing through the pipe. The frequency of the ultrasonic signal is sufficiently low to minimize scatter from particle/liquid within the mixture. The frequency based sound speed is determined utilizing ...

Vibronischer Multisensor

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur Bestimmung und/oder Überwachung einer Konzentration von Maltodextrin und/oder Maltose in einem Maischprozess, umfassend folgende Verfahrensschritte- Bereitstellen einer Maische,- Erwärmen der Maische auf zumindest eine vorgebbare Temperatur (T),- Bestimmen der Dichte (p) der Maische- Bestimmen der Schallgeschwindigkeit (v) in der Maische,- Ermitteln einer Konzentration von Maltodextrin und Maltose in der Maische, und- Ermitteln der Konzentration von Maltodextrin und/oder Maltose in der Maische.

Integrated acoustic phase separator and multiphase fluid composition monitoring apparatus and method

An apparatus and method for down hole gas separation from the multiphase fluid flowing in a wellbore or a pipe, for determining the quantities of the individual components of the liquid and the flow rate of the liquid, and for remixing the component parts of the fluid after which the gas volume may be measured, without affecting the flow stream, are described. Acoustic radiation force is employed to separate gas from the liquid, thereby permitting measurements to be separately made for these two components; the liquid (oil/water) composition is determined from ultrasonic resonances; and the gas volume is determined from capacitance measurements. Since the fluid flows around and through the component parts of the apparatus, there is little pressure difference, and no protection is required from high pressure differentials.

METHOD FOR STUDYING LIQUID AND DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT SAID METHOD

The invention relates to physical chemistry and can be used for the screening quality evaluation of multicomponent liquid products, in particular for analysing the conformity to standards of various technical liquids, pharmaceutical preparations, food products and biological liquids used in pharmaceutical, food and chemical industries and for medical diagnosis. The inventive method consists in determining the mechanical impedance of a drop (1) of studied liquid. Said drop has a predetermined volume of 5 mkl and is arranged on the surface of a piezoelectric ultrasonic frequency resonator (3) embodied in such a way that shear vibrations are exited in the drop (1) during the drying thereof. Thus obtained a time dependence of the mechanical impedance of the drop (1) is used as an informative parameter. Said selected informative parameter is very sensitive to the state of a liquid-crystalline structure of the multicomponent liquids. A comparison of the obtained time dependency with the analogue ...

Process for the manufacture of polycarbonate compositions

A continuous process for the manufacture of a polycarbonate comprises: combining an aromatic dihydroxy compound stream and a diaryl carbonate stream to form a mixture; controlling a weight or molar ratio of the diaryl carbonate to the aromatic dihydroxy compound by: measuring a sound velocity, Vs, in the mixture at an operating temperature of the controlling step; and determining the weight or molar ratio of the diaryl carbonate to the aromatic dihydroxy compound in the mixture; and adjusting a flow rate of at least one of the aromatic dihydroxy compound stream and the diaryl carbonate stream, if needed, to achieve a desired weight or molar ratio of the diaryl carbonate to the aromatic dihydroxy compound; and polymerizing the aromatic dihydroxy compound and the diaryl carbonate in the presence of a catalyst to produce the polycarbonate.

Applications for real-time mass ratio, mass flow and particle size measurement of particle laden flows

Techniques are provided for monitoring particle laden flows in a pipe, that include receiving signalling containing information about a parameter related to a particle laden flow in a pipe, the parameter including either (a) a sound level propagating through the particle laden flow in the pipe, or (b) a static pressure due to an acceleration of the particle laden flow in the pipe; and determining a measurement of a particle size and either a mass flow rate, or a particle-to-air mass ratio, or both the mass flow rate and the particle-to-air mass ratio, associated with the particle laden flow, based at least partly on a change in the parameter.

Use of gas void fraction measurement is the closed loop control of a fermentation process

A technique related to a fermentation process; where a signal processor receives a signal containing information about an amount of entrained air in a mixture forming part of a fermentation process in a tank; and determines a level of foam in the tank based at least partly on the amount of entrained air in the mixture. The signal processor may also provide a control signal for controlling an amount of defoamer (or antiforming agent) added to the mixture in the tank so as to control the production of foam within the tank by controlling the amount of defoamer added to the mixture in the tank.

Method for measuring the viscoelastic properties of biological tissue employing an ultrasonic transducer

The present invention relates to a Method of measuring the viscoelastic properties of biological tissues employing an ultrasonic transducer equipped with elements converting the ultrasonic waves reflected by these biological tissues into electrical signals, different elements being grouped to form sub-apertures such that the acquisition of electrical signals from the elements of the same sub-aperture is carried out simultaneously, each of these sub-apertures being intercepted by an ultrasonic wave propagation axis at an acoustic center (Ca). In conformance with the invention, such a method is characterized in that one and the same element belongs to at least two different sub-apertures and in that an acoustic center is surrounded by at least three other unaligned acoustic centers.

Ultrasound probe and ultrasound examination device using the same

An ultrasound probe which is capable of structurally improving resolution is provided. This ultrasound probe includes: an ultrasound probe which transmits ultrasound waves to a subject; and an optical probe which detects, with use of light, the ultrasound waves reflected off internal tissue of the subject, and openings of the ultrasound probe are larger than openings of the optical probe. With this, reflected waves (ultrasound waves) from the subject can be detected by the large openings, so that high resolution can be obtained relative to a width of the transmitted ultrasound waves.

Minimally invasive cytometry system with qcl inspection of single cells for cancer detection

This disclosure concerns a minimally invasive cytometry system including a handling system that presents single cells to at least one QCL laser source. The QCL laser source is configured to deliver light to a cell within the cells in order to induce vibrational bond absorption in one or more analytes within the cell. The cytometry system also includes a detection facility that detects the mid-infrared wavelength light transmitted by the cell and identifies the cell as either cancerous or non-cancerous.

Subject information acquisition apparatus and subject information acquisition method

A subject information acquisition apparatus includes: an acoustic wave detector which detects an acoustic wave which is generated from a subject by irradiating light and outputs a detection signal; an amplifier which amplifies the detection signal which is output from the acoustic wave detector; a gain control unit which changes a gain of the amplifier as time elapses, according to a gain control table, in order to correct a drop in intensity of the acoustic wave caused by attenuation of fluence inside the subject; and a signal processing unit which obtains information inside the subject based on the signal amplified by the amplifier. Measurement under a plurality of measurement conditions, where at least fluence distribution inside the subject or a position of the acoustic wave detector differs, is possible, and the gain control unit changes the gain control table according to the measurement conditions.

Acoustic wave (aw) sensing devices using live cells

In one embodiment according to the invention, there is provided a method of sensing a response of a living cell or virus to a change in conditions. The method comprises applying an essentially constant external electromotive force that causes oscillation of an acoustic wave device at essentially constant amplitude and frequency under steady state conditions. The acoustic wave device has attached at least one living cell or virus. A combined oscillating system including the acoustic wave device and the living cell or virus exhibits a fundamental frequency and at least one harmonic frequency of the combined oscillating system. The living cell or virus is exposed to a change in an environmental condition while oscillating the combined oscillating system under the essentially constant external electromotive force, whereby a response of the living cell or virus to the change in environmental condition will be indicated by a change in at least one of frequency and amplitude of the oscillation of at least one harmonic frequency of the combined oscillating system.

Section-illumination photoacoustic microscopy with ultrasonic array detection

Imaging systems, probes for imaging systems, and methods for noninvasive imaging are disclosed. In one example, a probe for use with an imaging system includes a slit configured to spatially filter a light beam from a light source. The probe includes a focusing device configured to cylindrically focus the spatially filtered light beam into an object, and an ultrasound transducer array configured to detect a photoacoustic signal emitted by the object in response to the cylindrically focused light beam.

Automated Ultrasonic Elasticity Image Formation with Quality Measure

Image data and E-mode images used in ultrasonic elasticity imaging may be automatically evaluated for quality to provide a single value used as operator feedback or for automatic selection of images for averaging or animation.

Bi-stable oscillator

In accordance with the present invention there is provided a bi-stable oscillator circuit for detecting a load imparted to a surface. The bi-stable oscillator comprises an electrical amplifier, at least one resonator comprising an electrical transducer having a resonant frequency, a surface of the resonator forming the surface on which the load is to be detected and an impedance network having a resonant frequency. The resonator is arranged to be exposed to an environment under test, and the resonator and the impedance network are connected in parallel with the electrical amplifier such that when a load imparted to the surface exceeds a pre-determined threshold value the oscillator circuit oscillates at the resonant frequency of the impedance network and when a load imparted to the surface is less than the threshold value the oscillator circuit oscillates at the resonant frequency of the resonator, switching of the circuit oscillation frequency being indicative of the load crossing the predetermined threshold value.

Ultrasonic Particle Measuring System

An ultrasonic particle measuring system having an ultrasonic transducer with at least one ultrasonic transducer element and at least one coupling element, wherein, during operation, acoustic signals are transmittable and receivable by the ultrasonic transducer element via the coupling element, wherein the coupling element is embodied as an acoustic lens, and the ultrasonic, particle measuring system has an evaluation unit suitable for amplitude analysis of reflection signals of acoustic signals reflected from particles to the ultrasonic transducer, and wherein, with the evaluation unit, amplitudes of reflection signals in a predetermined time interval are countable, which are greater than a predetermined threshold value.

Ultrasonic probe and inspection apparatus equipped with the ultrasonic probe

An ultrasonic probe includes a light irradiating portion configured to radiate light for generating ultrasonic waves from a light absorber, an ultrasonic transducing portion configured to transduce the ultrasonic waves to an electric signal, and a light guide member configured to introduce light from a light source to the light irradiating portion. A light irradiating region of the light irradiating portion is included within an ultrasonic receiving region of the ultrasonic transducing portion.

Photoacoustic measuring device and method

The present invention provides a photoacoustic measuring device and a method by which the presence of an object can be easily identifyied in a relatively short time in photoacoustic measurement while holding an object by a holding plate. The photoacoustic measuring device has a irradiating unit with which the object is irradiated with light, a holding unit holding the object by the holding plate, a detecting unit detecting the photoacoustic wave generated by irradiating light and an analyzing unit analyzing photoacoustic signal of the photoacoustic wave. The analyzing unit analyzes a photoacoustic signal to acquire information concerning change of a signal intensity of a component of the photoacoustic signal of produced in an interface between the detecting unit and the holding plate and an interface between the holding plate and the object, to identify the presence of the object.

Ultrasonic method and system for determining tissue pathology

A method for determining a pathology of a tissue sample. The method includes steps of coupling the tissue sample between two oppositely-facing ultrasonic transducers; acquiring a pulse-echo ultrasonic measurement and a through-transmission ultrasonic measurement of the tissue sample using the ultrasonic transducers; analyzing at least one of the pulse-echo ultrasonic measurement and the through-transducer transmission ultrasonic measurement using time domain analysis; analyzing at least one of the through-transmission ultrasonic measurements and the pulse-echo ultrasonic measurements using frequency domain analysis; and determining the pathology of the tissue sample based on at least one of the time domain analysis and the frequency domain analysis.

Method to determine the mass concentration of particles in a dispersion including particles and fluid

In a method to determine particle mass concentration in a dispersion having particles and fluid, the dispersion in a measurement cell is exposed to an alternating field of variable frequency to set the particles into oscillation to generate sound pressure waves. Amplitudes of the sound pressure waves are measured depending on the frequency so that a maximum amplitude of the sound pressure waves is established and a frequency associated with the amplitude is determined as a resonance frequency of the sound pressure wave. The mass concentration of the particles in the dispersion is established from the resonance frequency.

In-well full-bore multiphase flowmeter for horizontal wellbores

Methods and apparatus for measuring individual phase fractions and phase flow rates in a multiphase flow based on velocity of the flow, speed of sound through the fluid mixture, and the density of the fluid mixture. Techniques presented herein are based on measuring frictional pressure drop across a flowmeter conduit, determining a surface roughness term for the conduit during initial flow tests or through other mechanical means, implementing a correction method to balance the momentum equation, and calculating the fluid mixture density using the measured pressure drop. The techniques may be applicable to measuring flow parameters in horizontally oriented conduits and, more generally, conduits of any orientation.

Non-destructive evaluation methods for machine-riveted bearings

The disclosed embodiments generally relate to non-destructive evaluation methods. In an embodiment, a method for non-destructive evaluation of a machine-riveted bearing includes positioning a first plurality of sensors in the region of interest, the first plurality of acoustic sensors being provided in a phased array, positioning a second plurality of sensors in the region of interest, the second plurality of sensors being provided in a phased array, inducing a vibration in the region of interest using the first plurality of sensors and receiving a resonance frequency spectra using the second plurality of sensors, and comparing the received resonance frequency spectra against a reference spectra to determine the presence of an anomaly in the region of interest.

Apparatus For Determining The Texture Of Food Material

The present application relates to an apparatus for determining the texture of food material, wherein the apparatus comprises a device for generating a vibrational impact, such as a piezo actuator, a device for measuring vibrations, such as a vibrometer, a holding mechanism, comprising a container body for containing the food material therein or a string to attach the food material thereto, and an analyser for comparing measured vibrations with at least one reference value, determined prior to the measurement.

Acoustic wave (aw) sensing devices using live cells

In one embodiment according to the invention, there is provided a method of sensing a response of a living cell or virus to a change in conditions. The method comprises applying an essentially constant external electromotive force that causes oscillation of an acoustic wave device at essentially constant amplitude and frequency under steady state conditions. The acoustic wave device has attached at least one living cell or virus. A combined oscillating system including the acoustic wave device and the living cell or virus exhibits a fundamental frequency and at least one harmonic frequency of the combined oscillating system. The living cell or virus is exposed to a change in an environmental condition while oscillating the combined oscillating system under the essentially constant external electromotive force, whereby a response of the living cell or virus to the change in environmental condition will be indicated by a change in at least one of frequency and amplitude of the oscillation of at least one harmonic frequency of the combined oscillating system.

ACOUSTIC WAVE DETECTION PROBE AND PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT APPARATUS PROVIDED WITH THE SAME

In an acoustic wave detection probe provided with a light guide section that guides measuring light such that the measuring light is outputted toward a subject and an acoustic wave transducer that detects a photoacoustic wave generated in the subject by the projection of the measuring light, the light guide section includes a homogenizer that flat-tops an energy profile of the measuring light entered from the upstream side of the optical system, a light condensing member that condenses the measuring light transmitted through the homogenizer, and a bundle fiber which includes a plurality of optical fibers and is disposed such that the measuring light transmitted through the light condensing member enters from an entrance end of the bundle fiber. 2. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein:the homogenizer is a light shaping diffuser in which small lenses are disposed randomly on one side of a substrate so that the measuring light is further diffused.3. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein:the holding section is configured to hold the entrance end portion of the optical fibers so as to cover the input surface of the bundle fiber, and the holding section has a window at a portion at which the measuring light enters.4. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in claim 3 , wherein:the window is constituted by an ND filter.5. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in claim 1 , further comprising:an aperture member having an aperture that allows the measuring light, which is to enter the bundle fiber, to pass through and is provided at the entrance end of the bundle fiber, and gradually reduces the diameter of the aperture toward the entrance end to a size corresponding to the diameter of the bundle fiber.6. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in any one of claim 1 , wherein:the holding section includes therein a light guide member formed of a cap member and a ring shaped chip made of a ...

OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND LASER APPARATUS

Used is an object information acquiring apparatus including an irradiation unit for irradiating an object with a laser beam, a wavelength switching unit for selecting a wavelength of the laser beam, a restriction unit for restricting an output value of the laser beam, a probe for receiving acoustic waves that are generated from the object irradiated with the laser beam, and a configuration unit for generating characteristic information relating to the object in use of the acoustic waves, wherein the restriction unit restricts the output value according to the wavelength selected by the wavelength switching unit. 1. An object information acquiring apparatus , comprising:irradiation means configured to irradiate an object with a laser beam;wavelength switching means configured to select a wavelength of the laser beam;restriction means configured to restrict an output value of the laser beam;a probe configured to receive acoustic waves that are generated from the object irradiated with the laser beam;construction means configured to generate characteristic information relating to the object in use of the acoustic waves; anda variable voltage power source in which a voltage is controlled by the restriction means,wherein the restriction means restricts the output value according to the wavelength selected by the wavelength switching means, andwherein the irradiation means irradiates a laser beam as a result of laser medium excitation by a flash lamp that has received a high current pulse, which was created according to the voltage value of the variable voltage power source in a pulse-forming network, and also a result of Q-switching of a laser medium by a Q-switch.2. The object information acquiring apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , for each wavelength of the laser beam claim 1 , the laser medium has a different gain claim 1 , which represents an output value of the laser beam relative to the voltage value of the variable voltage power source.3. The ...

OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND LASER APPARATUS

An object information acquiring apparatus is used, which includes: an irradiation unit for irradiating an object with a laser beam; a restriction unit for restricting an output of the laser beam from the irradiation unit; a control unit for controlling an irradiation of the laser beam and an activation of the restriction unit; a probe for receiving acoustic waves that are generated from the object irradiated with the laser beam; and a construction unit for generating characteristic information relating to the object in use of the acoustic waves, wherein the control unit performs irradiation control of not irradiating the laser beam when the restriction unit is being activated. 1. An object information acquiring apparatus , comprising:irradiation means configured to irradiate an object with a laser beam;restriction means configured to restrict an output of the laser beam from the irradiation means;control means configured to control an irradiation of the laser beam and an activation of the restriction means;a probe configured to receive acoustic waves that are generated from the object irradiated with the laser beam; andconstruction means configured to generate characteristic information relating to the object in use of the acoustic waves,wherein the control means performs irradiation control of not irradiating the laser beam when the restriction means is being activated.2. The object information acquiring apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the restriction means is a shutter disposed on a light path of the laser beam, andwherein the control means performs the irradiation control during an open/close operation of the shutter.3. The object information acquiring apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the irradiation means irradiates a laser beam of a wavelength selected from among a plurality of wavelengths, andwherein the control means performs the irradiation control, upon changing the wavelength of the laser beam.4. The object information acquiring apparatus ...

AIR-CONDITIONING APPARATUS

An air-conditioning apparatus makes it possible to detect the presence or absence of a biofilm without the influence of water surface. The air-conditioning apparatus performs at least cooling operation or humidifying operation. The air-conditioning apparatus includes a drain pan to receive water, a draining unit to drain water received in the drain pan, and a detection unit to detect a biofilm formed in the drain pan. The detection unit performs the detection of the biofilm in a state in which draining of water from the drain pan is complete. 1. An air-conditioning apparatus configured to perform at least cooling operation or humidifying operation , the air-conditioning apparatus comprising:a drain pan configured to receive water;a draining unit configured to drain water received in the drain pan; anda detection unit configured to detect a biofilm formed in the drain pan,the detection unit being configured to perform detection of the biofilm in a state in which draining of water from the drain pan is complete.2. The air-conditioning apparatus of claim 1 ,being configured to complete drainage of water from the drain pan is complete when a predetermined period of time elapses after the cooling operation or humidifying operation ends.3. The air-conditioning apparatus of claim 1 , further comprisinga water level sensor configured to detect a level of water received in the drain pan,the air-conditioning apparatus being configured to complete drainage of water from the drain pan when a water level detected by the water level sensor is zero or approximately equal to zero.4. The air-conditioning apparatus of claim 1 , an ultrasound transmitter configured to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and', 'an ultrasound detector configured to detect the ultrasonic wave, and, 'wherein the detection unit includes'}wherein the ultrasound transmitter transmits the ultrasonic wave in a state in which drainage of water is complete.5. The air-conditioning apparatus of claim 1 ,wherein the ...

FLUID CONSUMPTION METER WITH NOISE SENSOR

A consumption meter, e.g. a water or heat meter, for measuring a flow rate of a fluid supplied in a flow tube. First and second ultrasonic transducers are arranged at the flow tube for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals transmitted through the fluid and operated by a flow measurement sub-circuit for generating a signal indicative of the flow rate of the fluid. A noise measurement sub-circuit operates a sensor arranged at the flow tube for detection of acoustic signals of the flow tube, and being arranged to generate a signal indicative of a noise level of the flow tube accordingly. This sensor may comprise a separate transducer, or the sensor may be constituted by one or both of the first and second ultrasonic transducers. The consumption meter may communicate data representative of the noise level via a communication module along with data consumed amount of water, heat etc. Such consumer noise level measurement at the consumer site allows collection of noise level data to assist in locating fluid leakages in a fluid supply pipe system. 1. A consumption meter arranged to measure a flow rate of a fluid , the consumption meter comprising:a flow tube with a through-going opening for passage of the fluid between an inlet and an outlet,first and second ultrasonic transducers arranged externally relative to the flow tube for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals transmitted through the fluid,a control circuit comprising a flow measurement sub-circuit arranged for operating the first and second ultrasonic transducers, and being arranged to generate a signal indicative of the flow rate of the fluid from the transmitted and received ultrasonic signals transmitted through the fluid,wherein the control circuit further comprises a noise measurement sub-circuit, arranged for generating a signal indicative of a noise level of the flow tube or of the fluid therein by operating at least one of the first and second ultrasonic transducers to detect acoustic ...

METHODS AND APPARATUS TO MEASURE CONSTITUTIVE RELATIONS AND FIBER ORIENTATION OF SOFT TISSUES

The systems and methods provided herein relate to the performance of inverse reconstruction algorithms from ultrasound radiofrequency data and stress-strain data. These systems and methods can be applied to any soft tissue mechanical measurements, providing information about both mechanical properties and fiber orientation, and the relationships between them. 1. A method for obtaining constitutive mechanical relations and spatially-varying fiber orientation of an optically opaque sample , the method comprising:stretching the sample along a plurality of axes;obtaining 3D ultrasound images of the stretched sample along the plurality of axes to determine an amount of strain on the sample; anddetermining a fiber orientation of the sample based, at least in part, on the determined amount of strain on the sample while stretched along the plurality of axes.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the act of computing of the fiber orientation includes performing an inverse reconstruction algorithm using strain data obtained from the ultrasound images and stress data from a biaxial tester that stretches the sample.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the acts of stretching the sample and obtaining ultrasound images comprises increasing an amount that the sample is stretched over a number of stretch cycles and subsequently imaging the sample.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the act of obtaining ultrasound images comprises imaging the sample at a peak stretch amount of the respective cycle.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasound images comprise ultrasound speckle images.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the act of computing the fiber orientation comprises:generating a 3D strain data over a volume in the sample from the ultrasound speckle images;determining a stress data using a biaxial force measurement device while the sample is stretched along the plurality of axes; andcomputing the fiber orientation of the sample through non-linear curve fitting of the strain and ...

ECHOLOCATION DATA GENERATION

Methods of probing a material under investigation using an ultrasound beam. Echolocation data is generated using a multi-dimensional transform capable of using phase and magnitude information to distinguish echoes resulting from ultrasound beam components produced using different ultrasound transducers. Since the multi-dimensional transform does not depend on using receive or transmit beam lines, a multi-dimensional area can be imaged using a single ultrasound transmission. In some embodiments, this ability increases image frame rate and reduces the amount of ultrasound energy required to generate an image. 1generating first data by converting echoes into electronic signals, the first data having a plurality of values associable with time; andgenerating the echolocation data using the first data and a data transform responsive to a phase or magnitude information.. A method of generating echolocation data comprising the steps of: This application is a continuation and claims the priority benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/684,086 titled “Echolocation Data Generation,” filed Jan. 7, 2010, which is a divisional and claims the priority benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/592,702 titled “Broad-Beam Imaging,” filed Nov. 3, 2006, which is a continuation and claims the priority benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/759,558 entitled “Broad Beam Imaging Methods,” filed Jan. 16, 2004, which is a continuation and claims the priority benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/211,391 entitled “Broad-Beam Imaging,” filed Aug. 1, 2002, which claims the priority benefit of U.S. provisional patent application No. 60/370,632 entitled “Broad-Beam Imaging,” filed Apr. 5, 2002; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/211,391 is also a continuation-in-part and claims the priority benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/039,922 entitled “Block Switching in Ultrasound Imaging,” filed Oct. 20, 2001; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/211,391 is also a ...

OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND SIGNAL PROCESSING METHOD

an object information acquiring apparatus comprises a light emission unit configured to emit light beams from a plurality of emission positions; a conversion unit configured to convert acoustic waves generated when an object is irradiated with the light beams emitted by the light emission unit into electric signals; a beam profile acquisition unit configured to acquire information relating to beam profiles of the light beams emitted by the light emission unit, the beam profiles corresponding respectively to the plurality of emission positions; and a characteristic information acquisition unit configured to acquire characteristic information of the object on the basis of the information relating to the beam profiles corresponding to the plurality of emission positions and the electric signals. 1. An object information acquiring apparatus comprising:a light emission unit configured to emit light beams from a plurality of emission positions;a conversion unit configured to convert acoustic waves generated when an object is irradiated with the light beams emitted by the light emission unit into electric signals;a beam profile acquisition unit configured to acquire information relating to beam profiles of the light beams emitted by the light emission unit, the beam profiles corresponding respectively to the plurality of emission positions; anda characteristic information acquisition unit configured to acquire characteristic information of the object on the basis of the information relating to the beam profiles corresponding to the plurality of emission positions and the electric signals.2. The object information acquiring apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the characteristic information acquisition unit is configured to:acquire information relating to respective light fluence distributions of the light beams emitted from the plurality of emission positions in an interior of the object by using the information relating to the beam profiles corresponding to the ...

Three-dimensional cavitation quantitative imaging method for microsecond-resolution cavitation spatial-temporal distribution

A three-dimensional cavitation quantitative imaging method for a microsecond-resolution cavitation spatial-temporal distribution includes steps of: after each wide beam detection, moving an array transducer by one unit; waiting until the cavitation nuclei distribution backs to an initial state, then detecting the cavitation by the wide beam detection with same cavitation energy incitation, so as to obtain a spatial series of two-dimensional cavitation raw radio frequency data corresponding to different placing positions of the array transducer; then changing the cavitation energy source duration, time delays between energy source incitation and the wide beam transmitted by the array transducer, and time delays between the pulsating pump and energy source incitation, so as to obtain a temporal series of two-dimensional cavitation raw radio frequency data; and then obtaining a microsecond-resolution three-dimensional cavitation spatial-temporal distribution image and a cavitation micro bubble concentration quantitative Nakagami parametric image. 1. A three-dimensional cavitation quantitative imaging method for a microsecond-resolution cavitation spatial-temporal distribution , comprising steps of: using a wide beam to detect cavitation activity for two-dimensional cavitation raw radio frequency data obtained; after cavitation detection by each wide beam , moving an array transducer for the wide beam detection by one unit perpendicular to a placing direction of the array transducer; waiting until a cavitation nuclei distribution returns to an original state thereof , then detecting the cavitation by the wide beam detection with same cavitation energy incitation , so as to obtain a spatial series of two-dimensional cavitation raw radio frequency data with the array transducer placed at different unit positions; and then obtaining a three-dimensional cavitation image and a cavitation micro bubble concentration quantitative three-dimensional image by combining wide beam ...

Snapshot photoacoustic photography using an ergodic relay

A photoacoustic imaging system is disclosed that includes an ergodic relay coupled optically to a light source configured to produce a light pulse and further coupled acoustically to a transducer. The ergodic relay is further configured to direct at least two PA signals to the transducer. Each of the at least two PA signals are produced at different positions within the field of view of the object to be imaged in response to illumination by a single light pulse. The transducer detects each of the at least two PA signals after each of at least two delays that correspond to the position at which each PA signal was produced.

Component Concentration Measuring Device

A measurement unit is attached to a measurement subject and measures acceleration in time series. A body movement calculation unit obtains the magnitude of body movement indicating the magnitude of a motion of the measurement subject based on acceleration measured by the measurement unit. A singular point extraction unit extracts, as a singular point, a time point at which the magnitude of body movement obtained by the body movement calculation unit exceeds a threshold value. A matching unit rectifies a change in a photoacoustic signal between before and after the singular point extracted by the singular point extraction unit. 16.-. (canceled)7. A component concentration measuring device comprising:a light emitting device configured to emit a light beam toward a measurement site of a measurement subject, wherein the light beam has a wavelength that is absorbed by a measurement target substance;a detector configured to detect a photoacoustic signal generated in the measurement site irradiated with the light beam in time series;a measurement device configured to be attached to the measurement subject and measure an acceleration in time series;a body movement calculator configured to obtain a magnitude of body movement of the measurement subject based on the acceleration measured by the measurement device;a singular point extraction circuit configured to extract, as a singular point, a time point at which the magnitude of body movement obtained by the body movement calculator exceeds a first threshold value; anda matching circuit configured to rectify a change in the photoacoustic signal between a time before and a time after the singular point extracted by the singular point extraction circuit.8. The component concentration measuring device according to claim 7 , wherein the matching circuit is configured to subtract an amount of the change in the photoacoustic signal between the time before and the time after the singular point extracted by the singular point ...

INFUSION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE WHICH PREVENTS OVER-SATURATION OF AN ANALOG-TO-DIGITAL CONVERTER

To detect air in a fluid delivery line of an infusion system, infusion fluid is pumped through a fluid delivery line adjacent to at least one sensor. A signal is transmitted and received using the at least one sensor into and from the fluid delivery line. The at least one sensor is operated, using at least one processor, at a modified frequency which is different than a resonant frequency of the at least one sensor to reduce an amplitude of an output of the signal transmitted from the at least one sensor to a level which is lower than a saturation level of the analog-to-digital converter to avoid over-saturating the analog-to-digital converter. The signal received by the at least one sensor is converted from analog to digital using an analog-to-digital converter. The at least one processor determines whether air is in the fluid delivery line based on the converted digital signal. 120.-. (canceled)21. An infusion system configured to detect air in an infusion line , said infusion system comprising one or more hardware processors configured to:control an operating frequency of a first sensor, said first sensor configured to transmit a first signal in a fluid delivery line;receive a digital signal from an analog to digital converter, said analog to digital converter configured to convert a detected signal responsive to the transmitted first signal from analog to digital;determine that the detected first signal is saturated;change the operating frequency of the sensor based on the determination of saturation; anddetect an air indication in the infusion line based on the changed operating frequency.22. The infusion system of claim 21 , wherein the changed operating frequency is different than a resonant frequency of the sensor.23. The infusion system of claim 22 , wherein the resonant frequency of the sensor is predetermined.24. The infusion system of claim 21 , wherein the sensor is responsive to signals above a minimum level.25. The infusion system of claim 24 , ...

SCANNER FOR PHOTO-ACOUSTIC TOMOGRAPHY AND PHOTO-ACOUSTIC TOMOGRAPHY APPARATUS USING SAME

Provided is a scanner for photoacoustic tomography including: a mirror which reflects light and a photoacoustic signal for the photoacoustic tomography; a first driving member which is attached with the mirror; a second driving member which is connected to the first driving member; first driving force supply units which are disposed under two ends of the first driving member in a first direction to exert a driving force for allowing the first driving member to perform tilting movement in the first direction; and second driving force supply units which are disposed under two ends of the second driving member in a second direction to exert a driving force for allowing the second driving member to perform tilting movement in the second direction. 1. A scanner for photoacoustic tomography comprising:a mirror which reflects light and a photoacoustic signal for the photoacoustic tomography;a first driving member which is attached with the mirror;a second driving member which is connected to the first driving member;first driving force supply units which are disposed under two ends of the first driving member in a first direction to exert a driving force for allowing the first driving member to perform tilting movement in the first direction; andsecond driving force supply units which are disposed under two ends of the second driving member in a second direction to exert a driving force for allowing the second driving member to perform tilting movement in the second direction.2. (canceled)3. (canceled)4. (canceled)5. The scanner according to claim 1 ,wherein the first and second driving force supply units are configured with a pair of a permanent magnet and an electromagnet,wherein the permanent magnet and the electromagnet in the pair face each other,wherein one of the permanent magnet and the electromagnet is positioned to be attached to the first and second driving member, and the other is positioned to be separated from the first and second driving member,wherein the ...

Method and device for detecting elasticity of viscous elastic medium

A method and a device for nondestructively detecting an elasticity of a viscoelastic medium are provided. The method includes: detecting a pressure applied to the viscoelastic medium by an ultrasonic transducer probe; in response to the pressure satisfying a predetermined condition, triggering detecting the elasticity of the viscoelastic medium; driving the ultrasonic transducer probe with a low-frequency vibration by a vibrator so as to produce an elastic wave in the viscoelastic medium; producing an ultrasonic wave by the ultrasonic transducer probe, and transmitting the ultrasonic wave to the viscoelastic medium; collecting an ultrasonic echo; calculating an elastic parameter of the viscoelastic medium according to the collected ultrasonic echo.

Method and device for detecting elasticity of viscous elastic medium

A method and a device for nondestructively detecting an elasticity of a viscoelastic medium are provided. The method includes: driving an ultrasonic transducer probe with a low-frequency vibration by a vibrator so as to produce an elastic wave in the viscoelastic medium; producing an ultrasonic wave by the ultrasonic transducer probe, and transmitting the ultrasonic wave to the viscoelastic medium; collecting an ultrasonic echo when the elastic wave is propagated in the viscoelastic medium and the ultrasonic transducer probe stops or almost stops vibrating; calculating an elastic parameter of the viscoelastic medium according to the collected ultrasonic echo.

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DETECTING ELASTICITY OF VISCOUS ELASTIC MEDIUM

A method and a device for nondestructively detecting an elasticity of a viscoelastic medium are provided. The method includes: acquiring with an ultrasonic imaging probe an ultrasonic image of the viscoelastic medium; determining an area to detect the elasticity of the viscoelastic medium according to the ultrasonic image; driving the ultrasonic transducer probe with a low-frequency vibration by a vibrator so as to produce an elastic wave in the viscoelastic medium; producing an ultrasonic wave by the ultrasonic transducer probe, and transmitting the ultrasonic wave to the viscoelastic medium; collecting an ultrasonic echo; calculating an elastic parameter of the viscoelastic medium according to the collected ultrasonic echo. 1. A method for detecting an elasticity of a viscoelastic medium , comprising:acquiring with an ultrasonic imaging probe an ultrasonic image of the viscoelastic medium;determining an area to detect the elasticity of the viscoelastic medium according to the ultrasonic image;driving the ultrasonic transducer probe with a low-frequency vibration by a vibrator so as to produce an elastic wave in the viscoelastic medium;producing an ultrasonic wave by the ultrasonic transducer probe, and transmitting the ultrasonic wave to the viscoelastic medium;collecting an ultrasonic echo;calculating an elastic parameter of the viscoelastic medium according to the collected ultrasonic echo.2. The method according to claim 1 , whereinthe ultrasonic image is a M-mode ultrasonograph, a two-dimensional ultrasonic image or three-dimensional ultrasonic image.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the ultrasonic echo is collected when the elastic wave is propagated in the viscoelastic medium and the ultrasonic transducer probe stops or almost stops vibrating.4. The method according to claim 3 , wherein{'sub': 'select', 'claim-text': {'br': None, 'i': N', 'T+ΔT', 'F, 'sub': select', 'high, '≧ceiling(()×),'}, 'a serial number Nof a collected ultrasonic echo ...

Ultrasound probe

An ultrasound probe including a matching element, a backing layer, a piezoelectric element and a driver is provided. The piezoelectric element is disposed between the matching element and the backing layer. The driver generates a coding wave inputted to the piezoelectric element, such that the piezoelectric element outputs a focusing sonic wave field along a short axis.

ULTRASOUND SYSTEM AND METHOD OF VESSEL IDENTIFICATION

The present invention proposes an ultrasound system and method of identifying a vessel of a subject. The ultrasound system comprises: an ultrasound probe configured to simultaneously acquire a sequence of ultrasound blood flow data frames (such as a sequence of ultrasound Doppler data frames) and a sequence of ultrasound B-mode data frames of a region of interest including the vessel over a predetermined time period; a blood flow region selecting unit configured to select a blood flow region in the sequence of blood flow data frames; and a vessel segmenting unit configured to segment the vessel in at least one frame of the sequence of ultrasound B-mode data frames based on the selected blood flow region. Since there is no need to manually place any seed point for vessel segmentation any more, the user dependency is reduced and a fast measurement is made possible. Furthermore, since the segmentation of the vessel in a B-mode data frame makes use of information from multiple blood flow data frames, more robust, reliable segmentation can be achieved. 1. An ultrasound system for identifying a vessel of a subject , comprising:an ultrasound probe configured to simultaneously acquire a sequence of ultrasound blood flow data frames and a sequence of ultrasound B-mode data frames of a region of interest including the vessel over a predetermined time period;a blood flow region selecting unit configured to detect a blood flow region in each frame of multiple frames in the sequence of ultrasound blood flow data frame, and to select a blood flow region among the detected blood flow regions; anda vessel segmenting unit configured to segment the vessel in at least one frame of the sequence of ultrasound B-mode data frames based on the selected blood flow region, the at least one frame comprising the ultrasound B-mode data frame temporally corresponding to the ultrasound blood flow data frame in which the selected blood flow region is detected.2. The ultrasound system of claim 1 , ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING REAL TIME AIR MEASUREMENT APPLICATIONS IN WET CONCRETE USING DUAL FREQUENCY TECHNIQUES

Apparatus is provided having an acoustic-based air probe with an acoustic source configured to provide an acoustic signal into a mixture of concrete; and an acoustic receiver configured to be substantially co-planar with the acoustic source, to respond to the acoustic signal, and to provide signaling containing information about the acoustic signal injected into the mixture of concrete. 142-. (canceled)43. Apparatus comprising: receive signaling containing information about an acoustic signal injected into a mixture of concrete; and', 'determine a measurement of air percentage in the mixture of concrete based at least partly on a dual frequency technique that depends on a relationship between the acoustic signal injected and the signaling received., 'a signal processor configured to'}44. Apparatus according to claim 43 , whereinthe acoustic signal injected is a reference signal;the signaling received is detected signaling; andthe signal processor configured to determine the measurement of air percentage in the mixture of concrete based at least partly on mixing the reference signal with the detected signaling using a phase sensitive lock-in approach.45. Apparatus according to claim 44 , wherein the signal processor is configured todetermine a resulting signal based at least partly on the mixing of the reference signal with the detected signaling;filter the resulting signal, including with a low pass filter, to get a DC component; anddetermine a value that is proportional to amplitude and phase components of the detected signaling at the frequency of the reference signal.46. Apparatus according to claim 45 , wherein the signal processor is also configured to determine a corresponding value that is proportional to corresponding amplitude and phase components of the detected signaling with the frequency of reference signal shifted by 90 deg.47. Apparatus according to claim 46 , wherein the signal processor is configured to determine a signal phase difference based at ...

STANDARDIZING DIFFUSION OF A FLUID INTO TISSUE

Disclosed are a system and method for evaluating a tissue sample that has been removed from a subject. Movement of fluid through the tissue sample is monitored by measuring time of flight of acoustic waves passed through the tissue sample. A system for performing the method can include a transmitter that outputs the energy and a receiver configured to detect the transmitted energy. Using the disclosed method and system, an optimized protocol for ensuring adequate distribution of the fluid throughout a variety of tissue types and/or sample sizes can be developed and utilized. 1. A system comprising:an acoustic monitoring device that detects acoustic waves that have traveled through a tissue sample; and monitoring a diffusion of a fluid through a tissue sample using the acoustic monitoring device; and', 'recording a time when the fluid has diffused through at least a portion of the tissue sample., 'a computing device communicatively coupled to the acoustic monitoring device, the computing device is configured to evaluate a speed of the acoustic waves based on a time of flight and including instructions, when executed, for causing the processing system to perform operations comprising2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the operations further comprise plotting a decay curve based on the monitoring of the diffusion of the fluid through the tissue sample.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the decay curve is used to estimate a decay constant for the tissue sample.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the operations further comprise storing the decay constant in a record associated with a tissue type of the tissue sample.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein subsequent tissue samples of the same tissue type are processed based on the decay constant.6. The system claim 1 , wherein an upper limit of the time is set to 6 hours.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the fluid is a tissue fixative.8. The system of claim 7 , wherein the tissue fixative comprises an aldehyde-based tissue ...

Non-Intrusive Detection of Pipe Parameters Using Selected Guided Acoustic Wave Modes

Methods and systems for measuring pipe parameters using guided acoustic wave modes are provided. The method includes receiving data corresponding to an acoustic signal, wherein the data are obtained by transmitting an excitation pulse at a specified frequency and detecting the resulting acoustic signal using an acoustic transducer attached to the outer surface of the pipe wall. The method includes analyzing the data to identify guided acoustic wave modes including at least two of: a C-SH acoustic wave mode that travels within the pipe wall; a C-LT acoustic wave mode that travels within the near-surface region of the pipe wall; and/or a CA acoustic wave mode that travels within the pipe cavity. The method includes calibrating the parameter measurement using the C-SH acoustic wave mode and determining the parameter measurement based on the phase velocity and/or the amplitude of the C-LT acoustic wave mode and/or the CA acoustic wave mode. 1. A method for measuring a parameter relating to a pipe using guided acoustic wave modes , comprising:receiving, at a computing system, data corresponding to an acoustic signal; wherein the data are obtained by transmitting an excitation pulse at a specified frequency and detecting the resulting acoustic signal using at least one acoustic transducer attached to an outer surface of a wall of a pipe; and wherein the specified frequency is within a range of 10 kilohertz (kHz) to 2 megahertz (MHz); a circumferential shear horizontal (C-SH) acoustic wave mode that travels within the wall of the pipe;', 'a circumferential Lamb type (C-LT) acoustic wave mode that travels within a near-surface region of the wall of the pipe; or', 'a cavity (CA) acoustic wave mode that travels within a cavity of the pipe; and, 'analyzing, via the computing system, the data to identify guided acoustic wave modes within the acoustic signal; wherein the guided acoustic wave modes comprise at least two of calibrating the measurement using the C-SH acoustic wave ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ANALYZING A MATERIAL FLOW

A method and an arrangement for analysis of a material flow (S) is disclosed having one or more material components. The material flow (S) is conducted via a conveyor line. One or more acoustic sensors are allocated to the conveyor line. Acoustic signals produced by the material flow (S) are detected by the acoustic sensors and then converted into digital signals. The digital signals are analyzed in an evaluating unit in a computer-assisted manner and analyzed by means of an algorithm in comparison to reference values specified based on individual identifying characteristics of the material components, such that the material components are identified and the mass fraction of at least one material component in the material flow (S) is determined. 19-. (canceled)10. A method for analyzing a material flow , comprising:guiding the material flow over a conveyor section;wherein the conveyor section comprises a plurality of sound sensors, wherein the sound sensors are arranged on a contact element of the conveyor section or one of the contact elements integrated into the conveyor section;detecting the acoustic signals generated by the material flow through the plurality of the sound sensors;converting the acoustic signals into digital signals;providing an evaluation unit;comparing the digital signals using the evaluation unit to the reference values determined by individual recognition features of the material components;comparatively assessing the digital signals;identifying the material components; and,determining a mass fraction of at least one material component in the material flow.11. The method of claim 10 , further comprising detecting the acoustic signals and evaluating in the form of acoustic emission and/or structure-borne sound and/or airborne sound and/or liquid-borne sound.12. The method of claim 11 , further comprising calculating and evaluation one or more of the following parameters:Arithmetic meanMedianVarianceStandard deviationEffective value/RMS value ( ...

DUAL ACOUSTIC AND ELECTRICAL ANALYSIS TECHNIQUE FOR THE TOMOGRAPHIC DETERMINATION OF MULTIPHASE FLOWS IN PIPES AND/OR LIQUID/FROTH INTERFACES IN PROCESS TANKS

Apparatus is provided featuring a signal processor or processing module configured to: receive signaling containing information about at least two sensing modalities sensed by a single probe arranged in relation to a multiphase flow or process volume; and determine using a multiple modality tomographic analysis technique information about different fluid layers in the multiphase flow or process volume, based at least partly on the signaling received. The signal processor or processing module may be configured to provide corresponding signaling containing corresponding information about different fluid layers in the multiphase flow or process volume. 1. Apparatus comprising:a signal processor or processing module configured at least to:receive signaling containing information about at least two sensing modalities sensed by a single probe arranged in relation to a multiphase flow or process volume; anddetermine using a multiple modality tomographic analysis technique information about different fluid layers in the multiphase flow or process volume, based at least partly on the signaling received.2. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the at least two sensing modalities takes the form of dual sensing modalities that include electrical and acoustic sensing modalities.3. Apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein an electrical sensing modality is based at least partly on a difference in conductivity or electrical (complex) permeability of the multiphase flow or process volume under investigation.4. Apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein an acoustic sensing modality is based at least partly on an acoustic speed of sound analysis.5. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the signal processing module is configured to provide a differentiation between the “phases” of the multiphase flow or process volume claim 1 , including a batch storage vessel claim 1 , based at least partly on the signaling received.6. Apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the signal processor ...

Particle Analyzing Systems And Methods Using Acoustic Radiation Pressure

The present invention comprises methods and systems that use acoustic radiation pressure.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CHARACTERIZING A MEDIUM USING ULTRASOUND MEASUREMENTS

Properties of a medium, such as its particle size distribution, are characterized using a measurement cell containing a medium between walls of the cell, with ultrasound transducers on opposite walls. Ultrasound is transmitted from the ultrasound transducers on both sides and transmission and reflection responses are detected. An ultrasound frequency dependent ratio of a Fourier transform value of a product of signals obtained from transmission responses in opposite directions and a Fourier transform value of a product of signals obtained from reflections at the transducers is computed. Preferably, the first received reflected and transmitted pulses in response to pulse excitation are used to compute the ratio. Ultrasound frequency dependent ultrasound speed and/or attenuation data of ultrasound in the medium are computed as a function of the ultrasound frequency from the ratio. This eliminates the effect of the walls. 1. A method of ultrasound reflection measurement using a measurement cell containing a medium and a first ultrasound transducer and a second ultrasound transducer on mutually opposite first and second walls of the cell respectively , the method comprisingtransmitting ultrasound from the first ultrasound transducer to the second ultrasound transducer and vice versa, through the walls of the measurement cell and the medium between the walls;detecting a first and second reflection response using the first and second ultrasound transducer respectively in response to their own transmissions;using the second and first ultrasound transducer to detect a first and second transmission response to the ultrasound using transmitted by the first and second ultrasound transducer respectively;computing an ultrasound frequency dependent ratio of a Fourier transform value of a product of signals obtained from the first and second transmission response and a Fourier transform value of a product of signals obtained from the first and second reflection response;computing ...

SLUG FLOW MONITORING AND GAS MEASUREMENT

Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for monitoring slug flow in subterranean wells. In one aspect, a method includes at a time instant, transmitting an acoustic signal across a cross-section of a pipeline flowing multiphase fluid including gaseous fluid and liquid fluid, wherein a portion of the acoustic signal is carried through the cross-section of the pipeline by the multiphase fluid and determining, at the time instant, a first quantity of the gaseous fluid and a second quantity of the liquid fluid passing the cross-section of the pipeline based, in part, on an energy of the portion of the acoustic signal carried through the cross-section and at least a portion of a total energy of the transmitted acoustic signal. 112-. (canceled)13. A system to analyze multiphase fluid in a pipeline , the system comprising:an acoustic transmitter to attach to a first location of the pipeline flowing multiphase fluid comprising gaseous fluid and liquid fluid, the acoustic transmitter to transmit an acoustic signal of a first energy across a cross-section of a pipeline flowing multiphase fluid comprising gaseous fluid and liquid fluid;an acoustic receiver to attach to a second location of the pipeline, the acoustic receiver to receive a portion of the acoustic signal carried by the multiphase fluid across the pipeline, the portion of the acoustic signal having a second energy; andan acoustic signal evaluator to determine a quantity of the gaseous fluid and a quantity of the liquid fluid passing the cross-section of the pipeline based, in part, on the second energy and the first energy.15. The system of claim 13 , wherein the acoustic signal transmitter is attached to the first location to transmit the acoustic signal at a beam angle ranging between about 5° and 15°.16. The system of claim 13 , wherein the acoustic signal transmitter is configured to generate an acoustic signal in a frequency range of between about 0.5 ...

MEDICAL TUBING INSTALLATION DETECTION

This disclosure relates to detecting fluid in medical tubing. In certain aspects, a method is performed by a data processing apparatus. The method includes controlling repetitive activation of the ultrasonic transmitter. The method also includes receiving a signal from the ultrasonic receiver during an activation of the ultrasonic transmitter. The method also includes determining that fluid is absent or present in a portion of the medical fluid tube based on a comparison between the signal and a threshold value. 119-. (canceled)20. A dialysis medical system comprising:a dialysis medical machine;a control unit;a portable computing device that is configured to wirelessly communicate with the control unit;a medical fluid tube connected to the dialysis medical machine;an ultrasonic transmitter positioned adjacent to the medical fluid tube;an ultrasonic receiver positioned adjacent to the medical fluid tube configured to receive one or more signals in response to the activation of the ultrasonic transmitter; and activating the ultrasonic transmitter for a first period; and', 'deactivating the ultrasonic transmitter for a second period;, 'controlling repetitive activation of the ultrasonic transmitter, wherein controlling repetitive activation of the ultrasonic transmitter comprises, for each repetition, 'a computer storage medium encoded with computer program instructions that when executed by the dialysis medical system, cause the control unit to perform operations comprisingwherein at least one of the following is provided:(i) the first period and the second period are chosen to minimize cavitation in fluid carried in the medical fluid tube, or(ii) based on comparison of a threshold value and a signal received from the ultrasonic receiver during an activation of the ultrasonic transmitter for the first period, presence or absence of fluid in a portion of the medical fluid tube is determined.21. The system of claim 20 , wherein the first period is 5 milliseconds and the ...

INFUSION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE WHICH PREVENTS OVER-SATURATION OF AN ANALOG-TO-DIGITAL CONVERTER

To detect air in a fluid delivery line of an infusion system, infusion fluid is pumped through a fluid delivery line adjacent to at least one sensor. A signal is transmitted and received using the at least one sensor into and from the fluid delivery line. The at least one sensor is operated, using at least one processor, at a modified frequency which is different than a resonant frequency of the at least one sensor to reduce an amplitude of an output of the signal transmitted from the at least one sensor to a level which is lower than a saturation level of the analog-to-digital converter to avoid over-saturating the analog-to-digital converter. The signal received by the at least one sensor is converted from analog to digital using an analog-to-digital converter. The at least one processor determines whether air is in the fluid delivery line based on the converted digital signal. 120.-. (canceled)21. An infusion system configured to improve detection of air in a fluid delivery line , the infusion system comprising:a sensor configured to detect a first signal transmitted in a fluid delivery line;an analog-to-digital converter electronically connected to the sensor, the analog-to-digital converter configured to convert the detected signal from analog to digital; determine that the detected first signal is saturated;', 'change an operating frequency of the sensor based on the determination of saturation;', 'transmit a second signal at the changed operating frequency; and', 'determine air in the fluid delivery line based on the transmitted second signal., 'a hardware processor connected with the analog-to-digital converter, the hardware processor configured to22. The infusion system of claim 21 , wherein the changed operating frequency is different than a resonant frequency of the sensor.23. The infusion system of claim 21 , wherein the one or more hardware processors are further configured to determine the resonant frequency of the sensor.24. The infusion system of ...

ULTRASONIC SENSOR AS WELL AS PROBE AND ELECTRONIC APPARATUS

An ultrasonic sensor includes a vibration plate, a first electrode, a piezoelectric body, and a second electrode. The first electrode is laminated on the vibration plate, that has a length along a surface of the vibration plate in a first direction, and that has a width Wbe along the surface of the vibration plate in a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction. The width Wbe is not more than the length. The piezoelectric body is laminated on the first electrode and has a width Wpz in the second direction. The second electrode is laminated on the piezoelectric body. A ratio Wbe/Wpz between the width Wbe of the first electrode and the width Wpz of the piezoelectric body is not less than 0.1 and not more than 0.8. 1. An ultrasonic sensor , comprising:a vibration plate;a first electrode laminated on the vibration plate, the first electrode having a length along a surface of the vibration plate in a first direction and a width Wbe along the surface of the vibration plate in a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction, the width Wbe being not more than the length;a piezoelectric body that is laminated on the first electrode and that has a width Wpz in the second direction; anda second electrode laminated on the piezoelectric body,a ratio Wbe/Wpz between the width Wbe of the first electrode and the width Wpz of the piezoelectric body being not less than 0.1 and not more than 0.8.2. The ultrasonic sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein the ratio Wbe/Wpz is not more than 0.5.3. The ultrasonic sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein in a plan view that is orthogonal to the surface of the vibration plate, a distance from an outline of the piezoelectric body to an outline of the vibration plate in the second direction is not less than 0.02 times and not more than 0.3 times a width of the vibration plate.4. The ultrasonic sensor according to claim 1 ,wherein in the first direction, the second electrode has a smaller width than the piezoelectric body. ...

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR TESTING A TEST OBJECT

The invention comprises a device () for testing a test object (), comprising an excitation system () for generating broadband ultrasound pulses (′) in the test object, a detection system () for detecting ultrasound waves (), which are generated through the broadband ultrasound pulses (′) in the test object () and emitted by the test object (). The device () comprises a processing unit () for processing the detected ultrasound waves (), while the excitation system () being one of a thermoacoustic emitter or a pulsed laser and the detection system () is a broadband detection system. The excitation system () comprises a modulator () for modulating the broadband ultrasound pulses (′). Furthermore, the invention comprises a method for testing a test object. 1101002002503004004014024034044013113213243313413201202203204202112122132142112112212312412401402403404404014024034044030130330430211212213214211311321324331341320120220320420131132132433134131111112112212312412. Device (; ; ; ; ; ) for testing a test object (; ; ; ; ) , comprising an excitation system (; ; ; ; ; ) for generating broadband ultrasound pulses in the test object , a detection system (; ; ; ; ) for detecting ultrasound waves (; ; ; ; ) which are generated through the broadband ultrasound pulses (′; ′; ′; ′; ′) in the test object (; ; ; ; ) and emitted by the test object (; ; ; ; ) , a processing unit (; ; ; ) for processing the detected ultrasound waves (; ; ; ; ) , the excitation system (; ; ; ; ; ) being one of a thermoacoustic emitter or a pulsed laser , the detection system (; ; ; ; ) is a broadband detection system and the excitation system (; ; ; ; ; ) comprises a modulator (; ) for modulating the broadband ultrasound pulses (′; ′; ′; ′; ′).21010020025030040030130330430211212213214211211221231241230130330430131132132433134132012022032042012112212312412. Device (; ; ; ; ; ) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the processing unit (; ; ; ) is able to execute a correlation between a reference ...

Fluid consumption meter with noise sensor

A consumption meter, e.g. a water or heat meter, for measuring a flow rate of a fluid supplied in a flow tube. First and second ultrasonic transducers are arranged at the flow tube for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals transmitted through the fluid and operated by a flow measurement sub-circuit for generating a signal indicative of the flow rate of the fluid. A noise measurement sub-circuit operates a sensor arranged at the flow tube for detection of acoustic signals of the flow tube, and being arranged to generate a signal indicative of a noise level of the flow tube accordingly. This sensor may comprise a separate transducer, or the sensor may be constituted by one or both of the first and second ultrasonic transducers. The consumption meter may communicate data representative of the noise level via a communication module along with data consumed amount of water, heat etc. Such consumer noise level measurement at the consumer site allows collection of noise level data to assist in locating fluid leakages in a fluid supply pipe system.

OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD FOR THE OBJECT INFORMATION ACQUIRING APPARATUS

An object information acquiring apparatus comprises a receiver receiving an acoustic wave propagating inside an object and convert the acoustic wave into an electric signal; a scanning unit configured to causing the receiver to scan the object; a control unit configured to controlling operation of the scanning unit; a detection unit configured to detecting a status of the acoustic wave reception; and a processing unit for acquiring characteristic information on the inside of the object on the basis of the electric signal, wherein the control unit decides whether or not the operation of the scanning unit is changed, on the basis of a result of detection by the detection unit. 1. A photoacoustic apparatus comprising:a receiver that receives an acoustic wave from an object and converts the acoustic wave into an electric signal;a controller that controls an acoustic wave reception operation using the receiver;a detector that detects an error; anda processor that acquires characteristic information on the inside of the object on the basis of the electric signal,wherein the controller determines whether or not to change the acoustic wave reception operation on the basis of detection of an error by the detector.2. The photoacoustic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein claim 1 , in a case in which the detector detects an error that influences the acoustic wave reception claim 1 , the controller determines whether or not to continue the acoustic wave reception operation depending on a content of the error.3. The photoacoustic apparatus according to claim 2 , further comprising:a scanner that moves the receiver relative to the object,wherein, in a case in which the controller determines to continue the acoustic wave reception operation, the controller determines a position to which the receiver is moved from a position where the acoustic wave is received when the error occurred.4. The photoacoustic apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the controller resumes the ...

ULTRASOUND PROBE

An optical fiber guides light output from a light source to an ultrasound probe. The ultrasound probe includes a light guiding section that guides the light from a light input end, which is optically coupled with the optical fiber to a light output end provided in the vicinity of ultrasonic transducers. The light guiding section has a first light guiding portion that includes the light input end, and a second light guiding portion that includes the light output end. The first light guiding portion is formed by glass, and magnifies input light. The second light guiding portion is formed by resin, and emits the light toward a subject from the light output end. 1. A probe , comprising:an optical transmission portion that guides light emitted from a light source to a probe main body;a light guiding section that guides light from a light input end, which is optically coupled with the optical transmission portion, to a light output end; anda detecting portion that detects photoacoustic waves that are generated within a subject due to light guided by the light guiding section being emitted onto the subject,the light guiding section including:a first light guiding portion that includes the light input end, that guides input light from the light input end toward the light output end, and that enlarges a cross sectional area of the input light, at an output end of the first light guiding portion; anda second light guiding portion that includes the light output end, that guides light guided by the first light guiding portion to the light output end, and that emits light from the light output end toward the subject, anda light diffusing surface being formed at an end surface of the second light guiding portion toward a light input side thereof.2. The probe as defined in claim 1 , wherein a detecting surface of the detecting portion and the light output end of the light guiding section are in the same plane.3. The probe as defined in claim 1 , wherein the first light guiding ...

ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER, ULTRASOUND PROBE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER

An ultrasound transducer includes: piezoelectric elements; a substrate configured to perform input and output of an electric signal with respect to each of the piezoelectric elements; signal input and output electrodes where each signal input and output electrode is provided between each piezoelectric element and the substrate; first backing materials where each first backing material is provided at each of the piezoelectric elements on a side where the signal input and output electrode is arranged; sealing portions where each sealing portion is configured to seal an outer surface of at least a portion of an electrical path connecting the substrate with the signal input and output electrode; a wall configured to surround oscillating portions including the piezoelectric element, the first backing material, the signal input and output electrode, and the sealing portion; and a second backing material provided in a hollow space formed by the wall and the oscillating portions. 1. An ultrasound transducer comprising:a plurality of piezoelectric elements configured to emit ultrasound according to an input of an electric signal and to convert ultrasound incident from outside into an electric signal;a substrate configured to perform input and output of an electric signal with respect to each of the piezoelectric elements;a plurality of signal input and output electrodes where each signal input and output electrode is provided between each piezoelectric element and the substrate and is configured to electrically connect the piezoelectric element with the substrate;a plurality of first backing materials where each first backing material is provided at each of the piezoelectric elements on a side where the signal input and output electrode is arranged and is configured to attenuate ultrasound vibration generated by operation of the piezoelectric element;a plurality of sealing portions where each sealing portion is configured to seal an outer surface of at least a portion of an ...

CRYSTAL OSCILLATORS AND METHODS FOR FABRICATING THE SAME

Crystal oscillators and methods for fabricating the crystal oscillators are disclosed. Also disclosed are sensors comprising the crystal oscillators, and methods for detecting an analyte using the sensors. In some embodiments, a crystal oscillator can include a convex crystal resonator having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface comprises at least one convex-shaped portion and the second surface is substantially planar; at least one pair of first electrodes disposed on the first surface; and at least one second electrode disposed on the second surface. 1. A crystal oscillator , comprisinga convex crystal resonator having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface comprises at least one convex-shaped portion and the second surface is substantially planar;at least one pair of first electrodes disposed on the first surface; andat least one second electrode disposed on the second surface.2. The crystal oscillator of claim 1 , wherein the at least one pair of first electrodes and the at least one second electrode comprise a conductive material.3. The crystal oscillator of claim 2 , wherein the conductive material comprises gold claim 2 , platinum claim 2 , titanium claim 2 , chromium claim 2 , aluminum claim 2 , nickel claim 2 , silver claim 2 , or a combination thereof.4. The crystal oscillator of claim 1 , wherein the at least one pair of first electrodes and the at least one second electrode comprise gold.5. The crystal oscillator of claim 1 , wherein the convex crystal resonator comprises AT-cut crystal.6. (canceled)7. (canceled)9. The crystal oscillator of claim 8 , wherein at least one second electrode is aligned with the one convex-shaped portion.10. The crystal oscillator of claim 1 , wherein the first surface of the convex crystal resonator comprises two or more convex-shaped portions claim 1 , wherein the at least one pair of first electrodes includes a plurality of pairs of first electrodes claim 1 , and wherein ...

QUARTZ CRYSTAL CHARACTERIZATION OF FRACTIONS DERIVED FROM CRACKED STREAMS

Methods are provided for characterizing the stability of a distillate fraction using a quartz crystal microbalance apparatus, such as a distillate fraction derived at least in part from a pre-refined crude oil. A sample can be aged for an aging period in a quartz crystal microbalance apparatus, and a frequency value for the sample in the quartz crystal microbalance apparatus can be determined before and after the aging period to determine a frequency difference, This frequency difference can be correlated directly with the ability of a jet fuel fraction to satisfy a stability test standard, such as a jet fuel breakpoint stability. The methods can also include using a temperature profile during characterization that can reduce or minimize operator error during the characterization. 1. A method of characterizing a kerosene boiling range sample , comprising:disposing a quartz crystal in a vessel containing a kerosene boiling range sample;heating the kerosene boiling range sample to a baseline temperature;measuring a frequency of the quartz crystal at the baseline temperature during a first sampling period to obtain a baseline frequency;heating the kerosene boiling range sample to an aging temperature and maintaining the sample at the aging temperature for an aging period;returning the kerosene boiling range sample to the baseline temperature; andmeasuring the frequency of the quartz crystal at the baseline temperature during a second sampling period to obtain an aged frequency, a difference between the baseline frequency and the aged frequency being indicative of a stability of the kerosene boiling range sample.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the kerosene boiling range sample has a boiling range of about 140° C. to about 300° C.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the baseline temperature is about 25° C. to about 45° C.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the aging temperature is about 40° C. to about 100° C.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the aging period is about 5 ...

System, Method, and Apparatus for Detecting Air in a Fluid Line Using Active Rectification

A circuit for detecting air, a related system, and a related method are provided. The circuit for detecting air includes a receiver connection and an air-detection circuit. The receiver connection is configured to provide a receiver signal. The air-detection circuit is in operative communication with the receiver connection to process the receiver signal to generate a processed signal corresponding to detected air. The air-detection circuit includes one or more active-rectifying elements configured to actively rectify the receiver signal to provide the processed signal.

Device and Method for Determining Particle Size Distribution On-line Using Acoustic Spectroscopy Through a Pipe

A device for determining particle size distribution on-line for concentrated dispersions or emulsions. The device includes an electronic block for generating electric pulses of specified frequencies on MHz scale and measuring magnitude and phase thereof. An acoustic sensor has an ultrasound transmitter to convert the electric pulses into ultrasound pulses of a same frequency and an ultrasound receiver to convert the ultrasound pulses back into electric pulses. The transmitter and the receiver each have a respective face. A stepping motor is connected to a movable piston, which carries one of the ultrasound transmitter or the ultrasound receiver thereon. A pipe with a flexible wall to conduct the dispersion or emulsion past the acoustic sensor. The pipe is disposed between the transmitter and the receiver, and the pipe has an exterior surface. The face of the transmitter and the face of the receiver are affixed to the exterior surface of the pipe. 2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein said exterior surface of said pipe is affixed to said face of said receiver and to said face of said transmitter so that said faces and said surface do not move relative to one another during compression of said pipe.3. A method for determining particle size distribution on-line for concentrated dispersions and emulsions claim 1 , the method comprising:{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM-00001', 'claim 1'}, 'providing the device according to ;'}driving the stepping motor to a point where a distance between the transmitter and the receiver faces equals twice a thickness of the pipe wall for defining a closed system;subsequent to defining the closed system, transmitting pulses at the specified frequencies through the closed system for measuring a first energy loss of the transmitter, the receiver, and the pipe at each of the specified frequencies;moving a sample through the pipe and driving the stepping motor in specified multiple increments for opening the pipe to gap positions between ...

ULTRASONIC METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR FLUID QUALITY MEASUREMENT, CLASSIFICATION, AND MONITORING

A system and method for determining fluid quality or change in quality by training machine learning algorithms using ultrasound Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) signatures. The system includes one or more ultrasonic transducers embedded inside or outside of a pipe, piping, or vessel that allows a fluid to flow past or between the ultrasound transducers. The transducer's acoustic energy creates ultrasound pressure waves and localized heat due to acoustic cavitation. The cavitation creates bubbles that collapse creating ultrasound sonic energy in the time domain. Unique sonic time-domain signatures, distinctively associated with the characteristics of the fluids, are converted to FFTs to produce unique, well-defined frequency response signatures. Machine learning algorithms are used to identify, measure, and classify the unique frequency response signatures associated with a wide range of fluids.

Low power water cut sensing

A system for determining a water cut of a water/oil emulsion includes a water cut sensor with a magnetoelastic ribbon, an inductive coil arranged proximate to the magnetoelastic ribbon so that an electromagnetic field produced by the inductive coil electromagnetically excites the magnetoelastic ribbon, and an alternating current source. A processor is configured to determine the water cut of the water/oil emulsion based on a resonant frequency of the magnetoelastic ribbon while the magnetoelastic ribbon is excited by the inductive coil. A feed line is coupled to the water cut sensor. The feed line includes an electrical coupling between the alternating current source and the inductive coil of the water cut sensor. The feedline includes an electrical coupling between the processor and the inductive coil of the water cut sensor or the processor is coupled to an acoustic sensor.

ACTIVE ACOUSTIC SPECTROSCOPY

In the present invention a controllable acoustic source () in connection with the process fluid () emits a signal () into the fluid (), consisting of a suspension of particles (), being volumes of gas, liquid or solid phase. The controllable acoustic signal () is allowed to interact, with the particles (), and the acoustic (pressure) signals () resulting from such an interaction is measured preferably via a sensor (). A spectrum is measured. The spectrum is used to predict properties, content and/or size of the particles () and/or used to control a process in which the process fluid () participates. The prediction is performed in the view of the control of the acoustic source (). The used acoustic signal has preferably a frequency below 20 kHz. 1. An analyzing apparatus for analysis of a process fluid comprising a suspension of volumes of gas , liquid or solid phase , wherein the volumes have a phase different than a phase of the process fluid , said apparatus comprising:an acoustic signal source operative to emit a controllable acoustic signal into said process fluid for interaction with said volumes of gas, liquid or solid phase, said acoustic signal comprising audible frequencies below 20 kHz and a wavelength that is larger than the volumes of gas, liquid or solid phase;an acoustic signal sensor operative to measure acoustic signals from said process fluid and operative to measure a spectrum of acoustic signals resulting from said interaction of said controllable acoustic signal and said volumes of gas, liquid or solid phase, said spectrum comprising audible frequencies below 20 kHz, wherein the sensor and the signal source are not arranged in the path of the process fluid;a processor connected to said acoustic signal sensor, said processor being configured to utilize multivariate statistical analysis of said measured spectrum of acoustic signals to determine at least one property influencing said interaction with said volumes of gas, liquid or solid phase, ...

UNIT ULTRASONIC WAVE PROBE, ULTRASONIC WAVE PROBE MODULE HAVING SAME, AND ULTRASONIC WAVE PROBE DEVICE HAVING SAME

The present invention relates to a unit ultrasonic wave probe, an ultrasonic wave probe module, and an ultrasonic wave probe device. The unit ultrasonic probe according to the present invention includes: a rear block part; a flexible substrate part arranged on the top of the rear block part; and a piezoelectric wafer arranged on the top of and electrically connected with the flexible substrate part, the wafer being formed to have a smaller size than the rear block part, so that even if increasing the number of piezoelectric wafers transversely, the number of channels is increased by depositing the unit ultrasonic wave probe including the piezoelectric wafer, thus preventing the cost from geometrically increasing because of the structure of the flexible substrate becoming complex. 116-. (canceled)17. An ultrasonic probe module comprising:a first unit ultrasonic probe which includes a first rear block part, a first flexible substrate part which is stacked on an upper surface of the first rear block part and in which a first wiring pattern is formed, and a first piezoelectric wafer which is stacked on one side of an upper surface of the first flexible substrate part and is in electrical connection with the first flexible substrate part; anda second unit ultrasonic probe which includes a second rear block part which is stacked on the upper surface of the first flexible substrate part, a second flexible substrate part which is stacked on an upper surface of the second rear block part, and a second piezoelectric wafer which is stacked on an upper surface of the second flexible substrate part and is in electrical connection with the second flexible substrate part.18. The ultrasonic probe module of claim 17 , wherein a size of the second rear block part is smaller than that of the first rear block part claim 17 , the first and second piezoelectric wafers are formed in the same size claim 17 , and the first and second piezoelectric wafers are disposed not to overlap each ...

ULTRASONIC DEVICE, ULTRASONIC MODULE, AND ULTRASONIC MEASURING DEVICE

An ultrasonic device includes: a substrate provided with a first opening and a second opening; a support film that is provided on the substrate and closes the first opening and the second opening; a transmitting piezoelectric film that is provided on the support film at a position which overlaps the first opening when viewed in a thickness direction of the substrate and that is sandwiched between a pair of electrodes in the thickness direction of the substrate; and a receiving piezoelectric film that is provided on the support film at a position which overlaps the second opening when viewed in the thickness direction of the substrate and that is sandwiched between a pair of electrodes in an intersecting direction intersecting with the thickness direction of the substrate. 1. An ultrasonic device comprising:a substrate provided with a first opening and a second opening;a support film that is provided on the substrate and closes the first opening and the second opening;a transmitting piezoelectric film that is provided on the support film at a position which overlaps the first opening when viewed in a thickness direction of the substrate, and is sandwiched between a pair of electrodes in the thickness direction of the substrate; anda receiving piezoelectric film that is provided on the support film at a position which overlaps the second opening when viewed in the thickness direction of the substrate, and is sandwiched between a pair of electrodes in an intersecting direction intersecting with the thickness direction of the substrate,wherein a film thickness dimension of the receiving piezoelectric film in the thickness direction of the substrate is smaller than a film thickness dimension of the transmitting piezoelectric film.2. The ultrasonic device according to claim 1 ,wherein the film thickness dimension of the transmitting piezoelectric film is 300 nm to 1800 nm, andwherein the film thickness dimension of the receiving piezoelectric film is 80 nm or larger.3. ...

METHODS, DEVICES, AND SYSTEMS FOR MEASURING PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF FLUID

Disclosed herein are devices for measuring, at one or more time points, one or more properties or changes in properties of a fluid sample. The devices may comprise a chamber defining an internal volume of the device suitable for receiving and retaining the fluid sample; a plurality of layers, the plurality comprising at least a first layer below the chamber, at least a second layer above the chamber, and a substrate layer between the first and second layers, wherein: the substrate layer is linked to at least one suspended element located within the chamber; the suspended element is linked to the substrate layer by at least two compliant structures located within the chamber; and the suspended element is configured to oscillate upon application of an actuating signal to at least one electrically conductive path, which runs across at least two of the compliant structures and the suspended element. Related methods and uses are also disclosed. 1. A device for measuring , at one or more time points , one or more properties or changes in properties of a fluid sample the device comprising:a chamber defining an internal volume of the device suitable for receiving and retaining the fluid sample; the substrate layer is linked to at least one suspended element located within the chamber;', 'the suspended element is linked to the substrate layer by at least two compliant structures located within the chamber;', 'the suspended element is configured to oscillate upon application of an actuating signal to at least one electrically conductive path, which runs across at least two of the compliant structures and the suspended element;', 'the suspended element and the at least two the compliant structures are configured to have at least a first oscillation frequency and a second oscillation frequency;', 'oscillation at the first oscillation frequency induces a first acoustic field in the fluid sample with a first shear penetration depth smaller than a threshold value, wherein the ...

DUAL MODE SENSOR

A novel dual mode sensor may combine mass-sensing measurements of dynamic-mode cantilevers with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy employed for transduction in sensitive electrochemical biosensors. The integrated design of the sensor may provide simultaneous and continuous measurement of resonant frequency shift and charge transfer resistance of a target analyte bound to a surface of the sensor. Binding of a target analyte to the surface of the sensor may cause charge transfer resistance to increase and the resonant frequency of the sensor to decrease. These simultaneous dynamic modes of the sensor may be utilized to measure an amount of mass of the target analyte accumulated on the surface of the sensor and to reduce and/or eliminate false negative measurement results. 1. A method comprising:performing a mass-sensing measurements via a sensor;performing a impedance measurements via the sensor; anddetermining, based on the mass-sensing measurements and the impedance measurements, whether an analyte has accumulated on the sensor.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:determining, based on the mass-sensing measurements and the impedance measurements, an amount of target analyte accumulated on the sensor.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:performing a first mass-sensing measurement prior to exposing the sensor to a medium;performing a second mass-sensing measurement while the sensor is exposed to the medium; anddetermining, based on a difference between the first mass-sensing measurement and the second mass-sensing measurement, whether the analyte has accumulated on the sensor.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:performing a first impedance measurement prior to exposing the sensor to a medium; andperforming a second impedance measurement while the sensor is exposed to the medium; anddetermining, based on a difference between the first impedance measurement and the second impedance measurement, whether the analyte has accumulated on the ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ULTRASONIC CHARACTERIZATION OF A MEDIUM

Method for ultrasonic characterization of a medium, comprising generating a series of incident ultrasonic waves, generating an experimental reflection matrix R(t) defined between the emission basis (i) as input and a reception basis (u) as output, and determining a focused reflection matrix RFoc(r, r, δt) of the medium between an input virtual transducer (TV) calculated based on a focusing as input to the experimental reflection matrix and an output virtual transducer (TV) calculated based on a focusing as output from the experimental reflection matrix, the responses of the output virtual transducer (TV) being obtained at a time instant that is shifted by an additional delay δt relative to a time instant of the responses of the input virtual transducer (TV). 1. Method for ultrasonic characterization of a medium in order to determine a temporal and local characterization of an ultrasonic focusing with axial correction , the method comprising:{'sub': 'in', '#text': 'generating a series of incident ultrasonic waves (US) in an area of said medium, by means of an array of transducers, said series of incident ultrasonic waves being an emission basis (i); and'}{'sub': 'ui', '#text': 'generating an experimental reflection matrix R(t) defined between the emission basis (i) as input and a reception basis (u) as output;'}{'sub': ['in', 'out', 'in', 'in', 'out', 'out', 'out', 'in'], '#text': 'determining a focused reflection matrix RFoc(r, r, δt) which comprises responses of the medium between an input virtual transducer (TV) of spatial position rand an output virtual transducer (TV) of spatial position r, the responses of the output virtual transducer (TV) being obtained at a time instant that is shifted by an additional delay δt relative to a time instant of the responses of the input virtual transducer (TV),'}{'sub': ['in', '0'], 'claim-text': [{'sub': ['in', 'out'], '#text': 'the focused reflection matrix RFoc(r, r, δt) and'}, 'a ballistic propagation relation of the type ...

Integrated ultrasonic-inductive pulse sensor for wear debris detection

An apparatus for detecting wear particles in a fluid includes an inlet channel and an outlet channel. An ultrasonic transducer creating an acoustic wave that defines an acoustic focal zone is located between the inlet and outlet channels. A flow path located between the inlet and outlet channel is shaped to restrict the flow of the fluid to be within the acoustic focal zone. An inductive pulse sensor includes a plurality of flow channels receiving the fluid and a plurality of planar coils wound around the flow channels. The inductive pulse sensor includes a detection system for the detection of wear particles passing through the flow channels based on a change in an electrical property of the planar coils. A single combined excitation signal is sent to all the planar coils at once and the detection system measures one single output measurement for the plurality of flow channels.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ULTRASONIC CHARACTERIZATION OF A MEDIUM

Method for ultrasonic characterization of a medium, comprising generating a series of incident ultrasonic waves, generating an experimental reflection matrix R(t) defined between the emission basis (i) as input and a reception basis (u) as output, determining a focused reflection matrix RFoc(r, r, δt) of the medium between an input virtual transducer (TV) calculated based on a focusing as input to the experimental reflection matrix and an output virtual transducer (TV) calculated based on a focusing as output from the experimental reflection matrix, the responses of the output virtual transducer (TV) being obtained at a time instant that is shifted by an additional delay δt relative to a time instant of the responses of the input virtual transducer (TV). 2. Method according to claim 1 , wherein the center of the focal spot is determined by searching the wavefront image for the spatial position of the point of greatest value.3. Method according to claim 1 , wherein the determination of the wavefront image is carried out only on the depth axis Z.4. Method according to claim 1 , wherein:{'sup': '(0)', 'sub': ['in', 'in', 'in', 'out', 'out', 'out', 'out', 'in', 'out', 'in,ref', 'in,ref'], '#text': 'between determining a wavefront image and determining the depthwise position Δz(r) of a focal spot, improving the wavefront image is performed in which a linear combination of a set of wavefront images corresponding to a given coherence area ZC is carried out, each wavefront image of the set being obtained between a selected input virtual transducer TVof a different spatial position r, and output virtual transducers TVof spatial position rsuch that r=Δr+r, with Δrbeing predefined and identical for all wavefront images of the set, and the selected input virtual transducers being close to each other, in order to obtain an improved wavefront image associated with a reference input virtual transducer (TV), this reference input virtual transducer TVbeing characteristic of the ...

Nonlinear mass sensors based on electronic feedback

This present disclosure relates to sensors capable of sensing mass, stiffness, and chemical or biological substances. More specifically, this disclosure provides the design and implementation of a piecewise-linear resonator realized via diode- and integrated circuit-based feedback electronics and a quartz crystal resonator. The proposed system is fabricated and characterized, and the creation and selective placement of the bifurcation points of the overall electromechanical system is demonstrated by tuning the circuit gains. The demonstrated circuit operates around at least 1 MHz.

Multi-Phase Flow-Monitoring with an Optical Fiber Distributed Acoustic Sensor

Embodiments of the invention provide a “tool-kit” of processing techniques which can be employed in different combinations depending on the circumstances. For example, flow speed can be found using eddy tracking techniques, or by using speed of sound measurements. Moreover, composition can be found by using speed of sound measurements and also by looking for turning points in the k-w curves, particularly in stratified multi-phase flows. Different combinations of the embodiments can therefore be put together to provide further embodiments, to meet particular flow sensing requirements, both on the surface and downhole. Once the flow speed is known, then at least in the case of a single phase flow, the flow speed can be multiplied by the interior cross-sectional area of the pipe to obtain the flow rate. The mass flow rate can then be obtained if the density of the fluid is known, once the composition has been determined. 1. A method of monitoring multi-phase flow in a structure , comprising:receiving a set of distributed acoustic data obtained by a distributed acoustic sensor arranged to monitor the structure;from the distributed acoustic data, tracking one or more eddies in a flow in the structure, wherein the eddies are tracked via detection of a change in hoop strain exerted on the structure by the eddy; anddetermining a flow speed or a change in the flow speed in dependence on the tracked movement of the tracked eddies.2. A method according to claim 1 , further comprising adapting a tracked speed of a tracked eddy via a predetermined function to find the actual flow speed.3. A method according to claim 1 , wherein for substantially homogeneous multi-phase flows and for all-liquid phase inhomogenous multi-phase flows claim 1 , a single flow speed is determined at any one time from the tracked eddies.4. A method according to claim 1 , wherein for substantially inhomogenous multi-phase separated flows claim 1 , respective eddies are able to form in the respective ...

PIEZOELECTRIC SENSORS AND QUARTZ CRYSTAL MONITORS

Surface modifications and improvements to piezoelectric-based sensors, such as QCMs and other piezoelectric devices, that significantly increase the sensitivity and the specificity (selectivity). These modifications can comprise mechanical and chemical changes to the surfaces of the sensors, either individually or together. For example, nanosize structures may be provided on the surface to improve sensitivity. Additionally, chemical coatings may be tethered to the surfaces, walls, or crystal to provide targeted sensitivity. Additionally, porous, layered and multiple senor arrays may be formed to enhance sensitivity and selectivity. 1. A sensor , comprising:a piezoelectric material having an upper surface; anda plurality of upstanding walls positioned on the upper surface, wherein the walls have a height of up to 1000 nanometers, a width of up to 1000 nanometers, and are spaced apart from each other by up to 1000 nanometers.2. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein the piezoelectric material is a piezoelectric composite polymer.3. The sensor of claim 1 , wherein the piezoelectric material is a quartz crystal.4. The sensor of claim 3 , further comprising a noble metal coating on the upper surface of the piezoelectric material.5. The sensor of claim 4 , wherein the walls are coated to reduce elasticity of any collisions between the walls and a particle.6. A sensor claim 4 , comprising:a piezoelectric material having an upper surface; anda plurality of functional groups attached to the upper surface of the piezoelectric material.7. The sensor of claim 6 , wherein the plurality of functional groups includes at least one chemical group having a specific interaction with a target analyte.8. The sensor of claim 6 , wherein the plurality of functional groups includes at least one biochemical molecule having a specific interaction with a target analyte.9. The sensor of claim 6 , wherein the upper surface defines a plurality of pores and plurality of functional groups are located in ...

Determining the microstructure and properties of materials using acoustic signal processing

An apparatus, system, program product, and method are disclosed for determining the microstructure and properties of materials using acoustic signal processing. An apparatus includes a one or more sensors for sensing information describing a multiphase material using sound waves. The apparatus includes a processor operably coupled to the one or more sensors and a memory that stores code executable by the processor. The code is executable by the processor to receive sound-wave input from the one or more sensors, perform one or more quantitative analyses on the received sound-wave input in the frequency domain, and determine a microstructure of the multiphase material based on results from the one or more quantitative analyses.

Air Bubble Sensor

An air bubble sensor has a holder at which at least one ultrasonic sensor is arranged to detect air bubbles and/or gas bubbles in a flowing liquid, wherein a flow passage which has connection pieces is integrated into the holder. 1. An air bubble sensor having a holder at which at least one ultrasonic sensor is arranged to detect air bubbles and/or gas bubbles in a flowing liquid , wherein a closed flow passage which has two connection pieces each for a respective tube is integrated into the holder; and wherein the flow passage has , at least sectionally , a substantially rectangular or square cross-section.2. An air bubble sensor in accordance with claim 1 , wherein an ultrasonic sensor element is arranged at two sides of the flow passage viewed in cross-section.3. An air bubble sensor in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the flow passage has claim 1 , at least sectionally claim 1 , two oppositely disposed wall sections which extend substantially parallel to one another.4. An air bubble sensor in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the connection pieces are configured so that tubes having different inner diameters can be pushed onto them.5. An air bubble sensor in accordance with claim 1 , wherein an electric plug connection for the ultrasonic sensor is arranged at the holder.6. An air bubble sensor in accordance with claim 1 , wherein electric components for controlling the ultrasonic sensor are arranged at the holder.7. An air bubble sensor in accordance claim 1 , wherein a plug receiver which in particular has a holding clamp for the air bubble sensor is provided for the air bubble sensor.8. An aft bubble sensor in accordance with claim 7 , wherein a cut-out is provided in the plug receiver and a plug connector of the air bubble sensor is arranged therein in a protected manner with a plugged-in air bubble sensor.9. An air bubble sensor in accordance with claim 6 , wherein evaluation electronics for the air bubble sensor are provided in the plug receiver.10. An air ...

Matter tracking system

A system is described that can detect, track and analyze a bubble of a secondary substance contained within a primary substance along a part of a fluid line. For example, the system can detect the presence of the bubble within the primary substance along the part of the fluid line, which can include assigning a digital signature to the bubble. In addition, the system can track the movement of the bubble in order to ensure that the bubble is accounted for only once as it passes through the part of the fluid line. Furthermore, the system can analyze the bubble, such as determine its direction of travel, speed of travel, volume and size.

APPARATUS

An apparatus includes a plurality of acoustic detectors detecting an acoustic wave from an object and outputting an electric signal, including a first and a second acoustic detectors each having a first and a second frequency sensitivity characteristics to output a first and a second electric signals, the first and the second frequency sensitivity characteristics are different, a memory holding a correction function created based on a third frequency sensitivity characteristics obtained from the first and the second frequency sensitivity characteristics, and an information processor correcting the first and the second electric signals using the correction function, thereby acquiring corrected electric signals and generating image data representing object information. 1. An apparatus comprising:a light source;a plurality of acoustic detectors configured to detect an acoustic wave generated from an object irradiated with light from the light source and output an electric signal, the plurality of acoustic detectors including a first acoustic detector having a first frequency sensitivity characteristics to output a first electric signal and a second acoustic detector having a second frequency sensitivity characteristics, which is different from the first frequency sensitivity characteristics, to output a second electric signal;a memory configured to hold a correction function created based on a third frequency sensitivity characteristics obtained based on the first and the second frequency sensitivity characteristics; andan information processor configured to: (a) read the correction function from the memory, (b) correct the first and second electric signals in accordance with the correction function, thereby acquiring corrected first and second electric signals, and, (c) generate image data representing object information using the corrected first and second electric signals.2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the memory is configured to hold the correction ...

PHOTOACOUSTIC APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ACQUIRING OBJECT INFORMATION

A photoacoustic apparatus includes an emitting unit that emits light onto an object; a receiving unit that receives a photoacoustic wave generated from the object irradiated with the light and outputs a signal; a first calculating unit calculates, based on the signal, an initial sound pressure distribution in a first region; a control unit causes the initial sound pressure distribution to be displayed; an acquiring unit acquires first information on a second region, designated within a region of the initial sound pressure distribution, and based on the first information, second information on a third region; a second calculating unit that calculates, based on the first information, propagation of the light in the third region to calculate a light fluence distribution in the second region; and a third calculating unit calculates, based on the initial sound pressure distribution and the light fluence distribution, an object information distribution in the second region. 1. A photoacoustic apparatus comprising:a light emitting unit that emits light onto an object;a receiving unit that receives a photoacoustic wave generated by irradiation of the object with the light and outputs a signal;a first calculating unit that calculates an initial sound pressure distribution in a first region on the basis of the signal;a control unit that causes the initial sound pressure distribution to be displayed on a display unit;a region acquiring unit that acquires information on a second region designated within a region of the initial sound pressure distribution displayed on the display unit, the second region being smaller than the first region, and information on a third region on the basis of the information on the second region, the third region being larger than the second region and smaller than the first region;a second calculating unit that calculates, on the basis of the information on the third region, propagation of the light emitted onto the object by setting the third ...

MICRO-DEVICES FOR DISEASE DETECTION

Among others, the present invention provides piezo-electric micro-devices for detecting at the microscopic level an electric, magnetic, electromagnetic, thermal, optical, acoustical, biological, chemical, physical, bio-chemical, bio-physical, physical-chemical, bio-physical-chemical, bio-mechanical, bio-electro-mechanical, electro-mechanical, or mechanical property of the biologic subject. 1. A method for fabricating a piezo-electric micro-device , comprising:providing a substrate;optionally depositing a first material onto the substrate;optionally planarizing the first material;depositing a second material onto the optionally planarized first material; wherein the second material is neither piezo-electric nor electrically conductive;patterning the second material to create at least one recessed area in the second material;depositing a third, piezo-electric material on the second material to fill its recessed area in the second material and cover the second material;patterning the third, piezo-electric material to create at least one recessed area in the piezo-electric material;depositing a fourth material onto the third, piezo-electric material to fill its recessed area and optionally to cover the third, piezo-electric material; wherein the fourth material can be the same as or different from the second material, and the fourth material is neither piezo-electric nor electrically conductive;optionally patterning the fourth material to give it a certain configuration;optionally depositing a fifth material onto the optionally patterned fourth material, wherein the fifth material can be the same as or different from the first material, the fifth material is different from the fourth material, and the fifth material is neither piezo-electric nor electrically conductive;patterning the fourth material and the optional fifth material to create an opening that exposes the third, piezo-electric material thus forming a piezo-electric probe;depositing a sixth, electrically ...

AUTOREGRESSIVE SIGNAL PROCESSING APPLIED TO HIGH-FREQUENCY ACOUSTIC MICROSCOPY OF SOFT TISSUES

A method to create a parameter map depicting acoustical and mechanical properties of biological tissue at microscopic resolutions to identify potential health related issues. The method including mounting the biological tissue on a substrate, raster scanning the biological tissue with an RF frequency, recovering RF echo signals from said substrate and from a plurality of locations on said biological tissue, wherein each of the plurality of locations corresponds to a specific pixel comprising the parameter map, the recovered RF echo signals including a reference signal recovered from the substrate at a point devoid of tissue, a first sample signal recovered from an interface between the biological tissue and water, and a second sample signal recovered from an interface between said biological tissue and said substrate, repeatedly applying a plurality of computer-generated calculation steps based on the reference signal, the first sample signal and the second sample signal to generate estimated values for a plurality of parameters associated with each of the specific pixels in the parameter map. The plurality of computer-generated calculation steps includes a denoising step, and using the generated estimated values to create said parameter map depicting parameters including, but not limited, to acoustic impedance, speed of sound, ultrasound attenuation, mass density, bulk modulus and nonlinear attenuation. 1. A method to create a parameter map depicting acoustical and mechanical properties of biological tissue at microscopic resolutions to identify potential health related issues , comprising ,mounting said biological tissue on a substrate,raster scanning the biological tissue with an RF frequency,recovering RF echo signals from said substrate and from a plurality of locations on said biological tissue, wherein each of the plurality of locations corresponds to a specific pixel comprising the parameter map, the recovered RF echo signals including:a reference signal ...

Aerosol sensor and sensing method

A sensor system is provided for measuring particle concentration and mass concentration in an aerosol. An optical sensor ( 33 ) is used for measuring a particle concentration and a mechanical sensor ( 32 ) is used for measuring a mass of collected particles. A particle concentration in the aerosol is monitored using the optical sensor ( 33 ), until detection of a particle generating event. Upon detection of a particle generating event, a mass measurement using the mechanical sensor ( 32 ) is performed and the mass measurement is used to calibrate the optical sensor ( 33 ). This approach enables the lifetime of the mechanical sensor to be extended, because it is only used when events are detected. The optical sensor, which typically is less accurate for mass sensing, is calibrated by the mechanical sensor.

SPECIMEN INFORMATION ACQUISITION APPARATUS AND METHOD THEREFOR

An apparatus includes a detector to output a signal by detecting an acoustic wave produced by irradiating a specimen with light, and a processor configured to: calculate a first optical characteristic value distribution in the specimen; determine, based on a designation by an operator for the first optical characteristic value distribution, two or more regions of a vessel in the specimen; calculate, by using an initial sound pressure distribution or optical energy absorption density distribution of the two or more regions of the vessel, an average optical constant of a background region which surrounds the two or more regions of the vessel; calculate, by using the average optical constant of the background region, a local fluence distribution in the specimen; and calculate, by dividing the first optical characteristic value distribution by the local fluence distribution, a second optical characteristic value distribution in which the first optical characteristic value distribution is corrected. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the processor is configured to calculate claim 1 , as the average optical constant claim 1 , any of an average absorption coefficient claim 1 , an average scattering coefficient claim 1 , an average anisotropic parameter claim 1 , an average reduced scattering coefficient claim 1 , and an effective attenuation coefficient.3. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the processor is configured to determine claim 1 , based on the designation by the operator within the first optical characteristic value distribution claim 1 , the two or more regions of the vessel having a known absorption coefficient claim 1 , and wherein claim 1 , when the average optical constant is a variable claim 1 , the processor is configure to calculate the average optical constant of the specimen by minimizing a difference between the first optical characteristic values and a product of a light quantity obtained based on the average optical constant ...

METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR MEASURING TISSUE STIFFNESS CHANGES USING ULTRASOUND ELASTICITY IMAGING

A method of evaluating tissue stiffness of a target area includes positioning an ultrasound elasticity imaging apparatus adjacent a surface of an area of tissue where the target area is located and applying a dynamic range of force to the tissue. A plurality of ultrasound beams can be directed at the tissue and a plurality of ultrasound echoes can be acquired from the strained tissue in the target area to calculate an amount of developed strain within the target area. 1. A method of using an insert to normalize measurements of tissue obtained by an ultrasound transducer , the method comprising:coupling an insert to an external surface of the ultrasound transducer;directing a plurality of ultrasound beams through the insert and into an area of tissue;acquiring a plurality of ultrasound echoes from the tissue and the insert; andnormalizing a measurement of strain on the tissue based on speckle tracking data obtained from ultrasound echoes reflected by the insert.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:applying a first amount of force to the area of tissue to provide a first amount of applied strain on the area of tissue; andcalculating the first amount of applied strain on the area of tissue using speckle tracking.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising:applying a second amount of force to the area of tissue to provide a second amount of applied strain on the area of tissue; andcalculating the second amount of applied strain on the area of tissue using speckle tracking.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein force is substantially continuously increased from the application of the first force to the application of the second force claim 3 , and a varying amount of applied strain on the area of tissue is substantially continuously calculated from the application of the first force to the application of the second force.5. The method of claim 4 , further comprising:extracting a nonlinear parameter from the relationship between the developed strain and the applied ...

Acoustic Particulate Concentration Methods and System

A process is disclosed for using multiple acoustic resonators to sample fluids (gas or liquids), capture particulate (or aerosols) entrained in the fluid, and deliver a concentrated sample of particulate. The acoustic concentrator demonstrates many improvements over prior art that includes improved concentration of particulate below micron, adjustability of the level of concentration, ability to function over a wide range of humidity and temperature, and reduced overall power consumption. For example, when installed on the inlet of an aerosol detection system, the acoustic concentrator has been shown to increase sensitivity that may lead to earlier detection of bioaerosol agents. 1. A aerosol/particulate concentrator device comprising:a) Means for drawing in an air or liquid sample from the environment into a structure-filled acoustic resonator;b) Means for applying a sound field within a structure-filled resonator where the sound pressure level and frequency of the applied sound field are selected to trap a desired particulate or aerosol;c) Means for drawing in an air or liquid sample to temporarily trap aerosols or particulate within the resonator;d) Means for expelling excess an air or liquid; ande) Means for periodically releasing the trapped sample of particulate/aerosol in a concentrated air or liquid stream.2. The device of further comprising a plurality of resonators claim 1 , and means for cycling the process in a sequence among resonators to achieve a near continuous-flow of concentrated aerosol or particulate.3. The device of further comprising sensors to receive the released trapped sample claim 1 , wherein said sensors are selected from the group consisting of; chemical claim 1 , biological claim 1 , radionuclide claim 1 , and explosives sensors.4. The device of further comprising means to adjust the sound pressure level to achieve varying levels of concentration of particulate.5. The device of further comprising means to adjust the frequency of the ...

SLUG FLOW MONITORING AND GAS MEASUREMENT

Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for monitoring slug flow in subterranean wells. In one aspect, a method includes at a time instant, transmitting an acoustic signal across a cross-section of a pipeline flowing multiphase fluid including gaseous fluid and liquid fluid, wherein a portion of the acoustic signal is carried through the cross-section of the pipeline by the multiphase fluid and determining, at the time instant, a first quantity of the gaseous fluid and a second quantity of the liquid fluid passing the cross-section of the pipeline based, in part, on an energy of the portion of the acoustic signal carried through the cross-section and at least a portion of a total energy of the transmitted acoustic signal. 116-. (canceled)17. A method comprising:transmitting an acoustic signal across a cross-section of a pipeline flowing multiphase fluid comprising gaseous fluid and liquid fluid;receiving the acoustic signal carried by the multiphase fluid through the cross-section of the pipeline;determining an energy level of the received acoustic signal; anddetermining flow parameters of the multiphase fluid based, in part, on the determined energy level of the received acoustic signal.18. The method of claim 17 , wherein transmitting the acoustic signal across the cross-section of the pipeline comprises transmitting the acoustic signal through an acoustic transmitter attached to an outer surface of the pipeline at a first location claim 17 , wherein receiving the acoustic signal carried by the multiphase fluid through the cross-section of the pipeline comprises receiving the acoustic signal carried by the multiphase fluid at an acoustic receiver attached to an outer surface of the pipeline at a second location claim 17 , and wherein the first location and the second location are diametrically opposite on the cross-section.19. The method of claim 17 , wherein the flow parameters comprise at least one of a ...

ULTRASONIC PROBE AND INSPECTION APPARATUS EQUIPPED WITH THE ULTRASONIC PROBE

An ultrasonic probe includes a light irradiating portion configured to radiate light for generating ultrasonic waves from a light absorber, an ultrasonic transducing portion configured to transduce the ultrasonic waves to an electric signal, and a light guide member configured to introduce light from a light source to the light irradiating portion. A light irradiating region of the light irradiating portion is included within an ultrasonic receiving region of the ultrasonic transducing portion. 1a light irradiating portion configured to radiate light for generating ultrasonic waves from a light absorber;an ultrasonic transducing portion configured to transduce the ultrasonic waves, which are generated with irradiation of the light from the light irradiating portion, to an electric signal; anda light guide member configured to introduce light from a light source to the light irradiating portion,wherein a light irradiating region of the light irradiating portion is included within an ultrasonic receiving region of the ultrasonic transducing portion.. An ultrasonic probe comprising: This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 13/804,889, filed Mar. 14, 2013, which is a divisional of application Ser. No. 12/145,224, filed Jun. 24, 2008, claims benefit of both applications under 35 U.S.C. § 120, and claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119 of Japanese Patent Applications Nos. 2007-172746 and 2008-146997, filed on Jun. 29, 2007, and Jun. 4, 2008, respectively. The entire contents of each of the four mentioned prior applications are incorporated herein by reference.The present invention relates to an ultrasonic probe suitable for use in an inspection utilizing a photoacoustic effect, and also relates to an inspection apparatus equipped with the ultrasonic probe.An inspection apparatus capable of obtaining a tomographic image or a three-dimensional image of a sample by utilizing a photoacoustic effect is proposed, for example, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,385, ...

Assessment Of Blood Coagulation Using An Acoustic Radiation Force Based Optical Coherence Elastography (ARF-OCE)

An apparatus and method of using an optical coherence elastography (OCE) under acoustic radiation force (ARF) excitation includes the steps of inducing an excitation wave in a blood sample by use of an ultrasound beam from an ultrasonic transducer; measuring an elastic property of the blood sample by use of an optical coherence tomography (OCT) beam transverse to the ultrasound beam to dynamically measure the elastic property of the blood sample during coagulation and assessing the clot formation/dissolution kinetics and strength.

Imaging devices with selectively alterable characteristics

In one example in accordance with the present disclosure, an imaging device is described. The imaging device includes an array of transducers. Each transducer includes an array of piezoelectric elements. Each piezoelectric element transmits pressure waves towards an object to be imaged and receives reflections of the pressure waves off the object to be imaged. The imaging device also includes a transmit channel per one or more piezoelectric elements to generate the pressure waves and a receive channel per one or more piezoelectric elements to process the reflections of the pressure waves. The number of channels are selectively altered to control parameters such as power consumption and temperature.

ULTRASONIC PROBE AND INSPECTION APPARATUS EQUIPPED WITH THE ULTRASONIC PROBE

An ultrasonic probe includes a light irradiating portion configured to radiate light for generating ultrasonic waves from a light absorber, an ultrasonic transducing portion configured to transduce the ultrasonic waves to an electric signal, and a light guide member configured to introduce light from a light source to the light irradiating portion. A light irradiating region of the light irradiating portion is included within an ultrasonic receiving region of the ultrasonic transducing portion. 1a light irradiating portion configured to radiate light for generating ultrasonic waves from a light absorber;an ultrasonic transducing portion configured to transduce the ultrasonic waves, which are generated with irradiation of the light from the light irradiating portion, to an electric signal; anda light guide member configured to introduce light from a light source to the light irradiating portion,wherein a light irradiating region of the light irradiating portion is included within an ultrasonic receiving region of the ultrasonic transducing portion.. An ultrasonic probe comprising: This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 13/804,889, filed Mar. 14, 2013, which is a divisional of application Ser. No. 12/145,224, filed Jun. 24, 2008, claims benefit of both applications under 35 U.S.C. §120, and claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119 of Japanese Patent Applications Nos. 2007-172746 and 2008-146997, filed on Jun. 29, 2007, and Jun. 4, 2008, respectively. The entire contents of each of the four mentioned prior applications are incorporated herein by reference.Field of the InventionThe present invention relates to an ultrasonic probe suitable for use in an inspection utilizing a photoacoustic effect, and also relates to an inspection apparatus equipped with the ultrasonic probe.Description of the Related ArtAn inspection apparatus capable of obtaining a tomographic image or a three-dimensional image of a sample by utilizing a photoacoustic effect is proposed, ...

Device and Method for Measuring Physical Properties of a Material

A device is provided for measuring physical properties of a sample material having a body comprising a chamber adapted to receive a sample material and a transducer electrically connected to a circuit. The transducer is arranged on the body of the device to contact the body such that the body is able to transmit vibrations between the sample material and the transducer. A drive unit is electrically connectable to the circuit to measure physical properties of the sample material. 2. A device according to claim 1 , wherein the body comprises an inner surface defining the chamber and an outer surface defining the outer side of the body; and the transducer is arranged to contact the outer surface of the body and/or the transducer may be glued claim 1 , sputtered or deposited onto the body.3. A device according to or claim 1 , wherein the transducer may be a piezoelectric transducer claim 1 , preferably made of ZnO or PZT and/or the body may be made of glass claim 1 , quartz or silicon or a solid material.4. A device according to one of to claim 1 , further comprising a vibration transmitting member arranged between the transducer and the body claim 1 , preferably wherein the vibration transmitting member is a wave guide adapted to transmit ultrasonic waves.5. A device according to one of to claim 1 , wherein the body comprises a first body layer and a second body layer attached to the first body layer claim 1 , wherein the chamber is formed in the first body layer and/or the transducer is arranged to contact the second body layer and/or the transducer is arranged on the second body layer.6. A device according to one of to claim 1 , wherein the chamber is defined at least by a first wall part and a second wall part parallel to the first wall part claim 1 , wherein the transducer and/or the vibration transmitting member is arranged closer to the second wall part than to the first wall part and/or the first wall part is defined by a surface of the first body layer and the ...

Photoacoustic targeting with micropipette electrodes

Photoacoustic targeting systems for intracellular recording. In one embodiment, the photoacoustic targeting system includes a light source, a micropipette electrode, an acoustic transducer, and a controller. The light source is configured to emit pulsed light. The micropipette electrode is configured to deliver the pulsed light to a target cell. The acoustic transducer is configured to receive photoacoustic signals generated due to optical absorption of light energy by the target cell. The controller is configured to determine a position of the micropipette electrode relative to the target cell based on the photoacoustic signals.

Automated Ultrasonic Elasticity Image Formation with Quality Measure

Image data and E-mode images used in ultrasonic elasticity imaging may be automatically evaluated for quality to provide a single value used as operator feedback or for automatic selection of images for averaging or animation.

BIOSENSOR UTILIZING A RESONATOR HAVING A FUNCTIONALIZED SURFACE

Systems and methods for detecting the presence of biomolecules in a sample using biosensors that incorporate resonators which have functionalized surfaces for reacting with target biomolecules. In one embodiment, a device includes a piezoelectric resonator having a functionalized surface configured to react with target molecules, thereby changing the mass and/or charge of the resonator which consequently changes the frequency response of the resonator. The resonator's frequency response after exposure to a sample is compared to a reference, such as the frequency response before exposure to the sample, a stored baseline frequency response or a control resonator's frequency response. 1. A device comprising:a film bulk acoustic resonator (FBAR);wherein the FBAR is configured such that interaction between the FBAR and target molecules changes a characteristic of the FBAR,wherein the characteristic is selected from a group consisting of charge, stress, strain, surface energy, tension and a combination thereof.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the FBAR comprises a functionalized surface and the interaction is between the functionalized surface and the target molecules.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the functionalized surface is exposed to the target molecules.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the FBAR is mounted on a substrate comprising a semiconductive layer and first and second claim 1 , spaced apart insulating layers claim 1 , said FBAR having a first edge contacting said first insulating layer and a second edge contacting said second insulating layer claim 1 , wherein said semiconductive layer claim 1 , said spaced apart insulating layers claim 1 , and said FBAR define a void region therebetween.5. The device of claim 4 , wherein the first and second insulating layers and the semiconductor layer are not exposed to the target molecules.6. The device of claim 1 , wherein a change of the characteristic changes a vibrational characteristic of the FBAR.7. The device ...

BLOOD ANALYSIS DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS

Methods and apparatus are provided for non-invasive blood analysis. A blood analysis device () comprises a housing () for receiving a human or animal body part or a container of blood. The housing () comprises at least one wave emitter () for emitting an emitted wave to target blood, and at least one wave sensor () for sensing a response wave after the emitted wave has interacted with the target blood. The at least one wave sensor is configured to output at least one sense signal allowing a frequency spectrum of the emitted wave to be constructed. 1. A blood analysis device , comprising:at least one wave emitter for emitting an emitted wave to target blood, andat least one wave sensor for sensing a response wave after the emitted wave has interacted with the target blood, the at least one wave sensor configured to output at least one sense signal allowing a frequency spectrum of the emitted wave to be constructed.2. The blood analysis device of claim 1 , comprising a housing operatively associated with the at least one wave emitter and adapted to receive (i) a human or animal body part claim 1 , or (ii) a container of blood.3. The blood analysis device of claim 2 , wherein the housing comprises a cuff for receiving a limb of a human or animal user.4. The blood analysis of claim 2 , wherein the housing comprises a receptacle for receiving and holding the container.5. The blood analysis device of claim 1 , wherein the emitted wave is an ultrasound wave.6. The blood analysis device of claim 5 , wherein the ultrasound wave is a broadband or multispectral wave.7. The blood analysis device of claim 1 , wherein the emitted wave is an electromagnetic wave.8. The blood analysis device of claim 7 , wherein the electromagnetic wave is a broadband or multispectral electromagnetic wave.9. The blood analysis device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one wave sensor comprises a hyperspectral image sensor.10. The blood analysis device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one wave ...

Laser source unit and photoacoustic image generation apparatus

A laser source unit obtains Q switch pulse oscillation with a simple structure while continuously switching a plurality of wavelengths. A laser source unit emits pulsed laser beams with a plurality of different wavelengths. A flash lamp radiates excitation light to a laser rod. A pair of mirrors face each other with the laser rod interposed therebetween. The pair of mirrors form an optical resonator. Wavelength selection unit controls the wavelength of light which resonates in the optical resonator to any one of a plurality of wavelengths to be emitted by the laser source unit. Driving unit drives the wavelength selection unit such that the optical resonator performs the Q switch pulse oscillation.

ACOUSTIC GAS VOLUME FRACTION MEASUREMENT IN A MULTIPHASE FLOWING LIQUID

Apparatus and methods for the measurement of gas volume fraction of produced oil are described. A first method measures the response of a pipe containing the produced oil excited by a source of vibration in the form of an acoustic frequency chirp containing a linearly varying range of frequencies in the tens of kilohertz range encompassing at least one resonant mode of the pipe. As the gas volume fraction increases, the location of the peak maximum of the measured frequency spectrum responsive to the excitation increases in frequency, and the height of the peak maximum increases, thereby permitting a linear calibration curve to be obtained. A second method measures the response of a pipe containing the produced oil to excitation by a continuous source of vibration having a chosen frequency above those which excite flexural vibrations in the pipe and simultaneously excite acoustic waves in the fluid contained in the pipe, known as the coincidence frequency. Gas present in the fluid will interrupt sound propagation or reverberation, thereby generating fluctuations in the amplitude of the measured vibrations of the pipe. The amplitude fluctuation level provides a measure of the gas volume present inside the pipe. A third method measures the response of a pipe containing the produced oil to excitation by a high-bandwidth, short pulse having a chosen center frequency above the coincidence frequency. Gas present in the fluid will interrupt pulse propagation, thereby generating fluctuations in the amplitude of the measured vibrations of the pipe. 1. A method for measuring the gas volume fraction in a fluid , comprising: exciting at least one mechanical resonance vibration in a section of pipe containing the fluid using an acoustic frequency chirp containing a linearly varying range of frequencies encompassing the at least one resonance vibration; and measuring the at least one resonant frequency of the pipe section responsive to the applied frequency chirp , whereby as the ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETECTING SOLID PARTICLES

A solids detector may include a receptor configured to extend at least partially into a flow path of a fluid through a conduit. Further, the solids detector may include a sensor configured to receive an acoustic wave generated due to one or more solid particles in the fluid impacting the receptor. Additionally, the sensor may be configured to generate an electrical signal based on the acoustic wave. The electrical signal may be indicative of one or more impact energies of the one or more solid particles that impacted the receptor. 1. A solids detector , comprising:a valve comprising a valve body configured to be coupled to a conduit, wherein the valve is configured to control a flow of a fluid through the conduit;a receptor coupled to the valve body and configured to extend at least partially into a flow path of the fluid through the valve body; anda sensor coupled to the valve body and the receptor, wherein the sensor is configured to receive an acoustic wave generated due to one or more solid particles in the fluid impacting the receptor, wherein the sensor is configured to generate an electrical signal based on the acoustic wave, and wherein the electrical signal is indicative of one or more impact energies of the one or more solid particles that impacted the receptor.2. The solids detector of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises a piezoelectric sensor.3. The solids detector of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises an array of piezoelectric sensors embedded in the receptor along a portion of the receptor that extends into the flow path.4. The solids detector of claim 1 , wherein the sensor comprises a magnetostrictive sensor.5. The solids detector of claim 4 , wherein the magnetostrictive sensor comprises:a magnetostrictive element affixed to and configured to receive the acoustic wave from the receptor, wherein the acoustic wave is configured to cause a change in a magnetic permeability of the magnetostrictive element;a magnetic field generating device ...

DETERMINING MECHANICAL PROPERTIES VIA ULTRASOUND-INDUCED RESONANCE

A device for estimating a mechanical property of a sample is disclosed herein. The device may include a chamber configured to hold the sample; a transmitter configured to transmit a plurality of waveforms, including at least one forcing waveform; and a transducer assembly operatively connected to the transmitter and configured to transform the transmit waveforms into ultrasound waveforms. The transducer assembly can also transmit and receive ultrasound waveforms into and out of the chamber, as well as transform at least two received ultrasound waveforms into received electrical waveforms. The device also includes a data processor that can receive the received electrical waveforms; estimate a difference in the received electrical waveforms that results at least partially from movement of the sample; and estimate a mechanical property of the sample by comparing at least one feature of the estimated difference to at least one predicted feature, wherein the at least one predicted feature is based on a model of an effect of the chamber wall. Finally, the device can also include a controller configured to control the timing of the ultrasound transmitter and data processor. 130-. (canceled)31. A device for evaluation of hemostasis than can be used with an acoustic interrogation system to measure at least one viscoelastic property of a test sample of blood , the device comprising:a housing; anda plurality of test chambers, each comprising a resonant portion, wherein the plurality of test chambers are each at least partially defined by the housing, wherein each of the plurality of test chambers are each designed to hold a test sample of blood combined with a reagent or combination of reagent and to be interrogated by an acoustic interrogation system to determine a plurality of hemostatic parameters of the test samples, andwherein each resonant portion of a test chamber of the plurality of test chambers is configured to generate resonance from a forcing waveform comprising ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTING AN AIRBORNE TRIGGER

An apparatus includes a communication interface configured to receive sensor data from a sensor device. The sensor device includes a resonator including a material having an affinity for a compound, and the sensor data is indicative of a vibrational frequency of the resonator. The apparatus also includes a processor to analyze the sensor data and to generate an output based on the sensor data. 1. An apparatus comprising:a communication interface configured to receive sensor data from a sensor device, the sensor device including a resonator including a material having an affinity for a compound, the sensor data indicative of a vibrational frequency of the resonator; anda processor to analyze the sensor data and to generate an output based on the sensor data.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the sensor device is a mobile device and the sensor data includes information indicating a location of sensor device.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the sensor data is received via a wireless network.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the sensor data further includes a sensor identifier and a timestamp.5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the communication interface is further configured to receive second sensor data indicative of a second vibrational frequency of a second resonator claim 1 , and the processor is further configured to generate the output based on the sensor data and the second sensor data.6. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the second resonator includes the material having the affinity for the compound.7. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the second resonator includes a second material having an affinity for a second compound that is distinct from the compound.8. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the sensor device includes the second resonator and a diffusion barrier.9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the communication interface is configured to claim 1 , before receiving the sensor data claim 1 , receive configuration data from the sensor ...

ACOUSTIC WAVE DETECTION PROBE AND PHOTOACOUSTIC MEASUREMENT APPARATUS PROVIDED WITH THE SAME

In an acoustic wave detection probe provided with a light guide section that guides measuring light such that the measuring light is outputted toward a subject and an acoustic wave transducer that detects a photoacoustic wave generated in the subject by the projection of the measuring light, the light guide section includes a homogenizer that flat-tops an energy profile of the measuring light entered from the upstream side of the optical system, a light condensing member that condenses the measuring light transmitted through the homogenizer, and a bundle fiber which includes a plurality of optical fibers and is disposed such that the measuring light transmitted through the light condensing member enters from an entrance end of the bundle fiber. 2. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in claim 1 , wherein:a beam expander optical system is mounted at the mounting section immediately before the entrance side of the homogenizer;the beam expander optical system having a expansion factor that conforms to angular apertures of the plurality of optical fibers so that measuring light is expanded to a beam diameter that conforms to the angular apertures of the plurality of optical fibers.3. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in either one of claim 1 , further comprising:a holding section configured to hold the entrance end portion of the bundle fiber so as to cover the input surface of the bundle fiber;the holding section having a window at a portion at which the measuring light enters.4. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in claim 3 , wherein:the window is constituted by an ND filter.5. A photoacoustic measuring apparatus as defined in any one of claim 1 , further comprising:an aperture member having an aperture that allows the measuring light, which is to enter the bundle fiber, to pass through and an aperture member which is provided at the entrance end of the bundle fiber and gradually reduces the diameter of the aperture toward the ...

SHEAR HORIZONTAL-SURFACE ACOUSTIC WAVE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASUREMENT AND SPECIATION OF HYDROCARBONS IN GROUNDWATER

An exemplary embodiment of a method of detecting hydrocarbons in Systems and methods for sensing analytes in an aqueous solution, include pretreating a water sample to provide a test sample. A flow cell includes at least one sensor with a polymer coating having at least partial selectivity for at least one analyte. The flow cell receives a test sample and a reference sample. At least one output signal from the at least one sensor is processed with a microcontroller using a model of the sensor response and a bank of Kalman filters to estimate a concentration of at least one analyte in the aqueous solution. 1. A system for sensing hydrocarbons in an aqueous solution , the system comprising:a pretreatment stage comprising a particulate filter, which receives the aqueous solution to be tested and operates provide at least a test sample;a flow cell comprising at least one sensor with a polymer coating having at least partial selectivity for at least one analyte, the flow cell connected to the pretreatment stage and receives the test sample and a reference sample; anda microcontroller that receives an output of the at least one sensor and executes computer readable code stored in a data storage device communicatively connected to the microcontroller, to process a frequency shift in the output of the at least one sensor with a bank of Kalman filters to estimate a concentration of at least one analyte in the aqueous solution.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one sensor comprises at least one SH-SAW sensor and the bank of Kalman filters comprises a bank of extended Kalman filters.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the polymer coating is selected from poly(ethyl acrylate) (PEA) claim 1 , poly(epichlorohydrin) (PECH) claim 1 , poly(isobutylene) (PM) claim 1 , polystyrene-diisooctyl azelate (PS -DIOA) claim 1 , and polystyrene-diisononyl cyclohexane-1 claim 1 ,2-dicarboxylate (PS-DINCH).4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one sensor comprises:a first ...

DETECTION OF BACTERIA USING BACTERIOPHAGE

A system for identifying at least one species, strain or type of bacteria in a sample including at least one a labeled bacteriophage which binds selectively to the species, strain or type of bacteria, the at least one labeled bacteriophage comprising a label attached thereto, the system further comprising a detection system adapted to detect the labeled bacteriophage bound to the species of bacteria. 1. A bacteriophage comprising a label attached thereto , wherein the label is selected to be detectible via a detection system.2. The bacteriophage of wherein the label is detectible using a photoacoustic cell.3. The bacteriophage of wherein the label is detectible using a flowmetry system.4. A system for determining if a sample includes at least one species claim 1 , strain or type of bacteria claim 1 , comprising: a plurality of bacteriophages claim 1 , each of the plurality of bacteriophages selectively binding with a different species claim 1 , strain or type of bacteria claim 1 , each of the plurality of bacteriophages including a different label that is separately detectable via a detection system.5. The system of wherein each of the different labels of the plurality of bacteriophages is detectible using a photoacoustic cell.6. The system of wherein each of the different labels of the plurality of bacteriophages is detectible using a flowmetry system.7. A system for identifying at least one species claim 4 , strain or type of bacteria in a sample claim 4 , comprising: at least one a labeled bacteriophage which binds selectively to the species claim 4 , strain or type of bacteria claim 4 , the at least one labeled bacteriophage comprising a label attached thereto claim 4 , the system further comprising a detection system adapted to detect the labeled bacteriophage bound to the species of bacteria.8. The system of wherein the detection system comprises a photoacoustic cell.9. The system of wherein the detection system comprises a flowmetry system.10. The system of ...