Abstract:
A bistable double-acting valve includes a valve body having two opposed compression surfaces and an elongated spring element located between the two compression surfaces and having a first end pivotally secured to the valve port and its other end secured to an actuating lever. The length of the spring is such that a smooth curve is formed between its two ends in each of the two bistable positions, and in each bistable position the spring clamps a section of tubing against a corresponding compression surface to block fluid flow through that tubing.
Abstract:
An atomic absorption spectroanalysis system includes a burner for generating a flame, two radiation sources, and two pairs of radiation sensors. An optical system passes radiation from each source along a first path through the flame for sensing by a corresponding sensor to produce an I signal, and along a second path outside the flame for sensing by a corresponding second sensor to produce an Io signal. The radiation output of each source is modulated and the output signals from each sensor are demodulated and then logarithmically combined to provide two log I/Io signals. Compensation circuitry connected to the logarithmic circuit arrangement provides compensation for radiation absorption deviations of the radiation passing through the flame as a function of Beer''s Law. The system also includes circuitry for providing a zeroing adjustment of each log I/Io signal while a known standard or blank is being introduced into the flame.
Abstract:
An electrochemical electrode system includes a first chamber adapted to contain electrolyte and a second chamber adapted to contain the material to be analyzed. An opening is associated with each chamber and the openings are in juxtaposed relation to one another. The system further includes a flow control member that is disposed between the two openings. Structure is provided for sealing the two openings to the flow control member in position between the openings.
Abstract:
Microcalorimetry apparatus includes a chamber in which a plurality of samples to be analyzed are supported. The chamber is surrounded by thermal insulation at least a portion of which is porous. Air at an accurately controlled temperature is supplied to the chamber under positive pressure to cause continuous exhausting of air through the porous insulation. A reference sensor is disposed in the chamber and provides a reference signal to accelerate equilibration of the samples in the chamber. The apparatus is particularly useful in detecting bacterial growth by sensing the heat production in the samples under analysis and sensing for a positive derivative of the rate of heat production in the samples.
Abstract:
AN ELECTROCHEMICAL ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY INCLUDES A HOUSING DEFINING AN ELECTROLYTE CHAMBER. THE HOUSING HAS AN APERTURE IN A WALL AND A SELECTIVELY PERMEABLE MEMBRANE IS DISPOSED ACROSS THE APERTURE. AN ELECTRODE IS SUPPORTED WITHIN THE CHAMBER IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO THE MEMBRANE AND A FILTER IS SUPPORTED ON THE HOUSING AND INTERPOSED BETWEEN THE MEMBRANE AND TEST MATERIAL IN SPACED RELATION TO THE MEMBRANE TO INTERCEPT LIQUID PARTICLES WHILE FREELY PASSING GAS FROM THE MEDIUM.
Abstract:
An electrode assembly includes an elongated tubular support member to which is secured a coupling structure. An electrode structure is supported by the coupling structure and has a sensing surface that projects externally of the coupling structure. A housing structure has a selectively permeable membrane secured over an opening at one end so that a chamber is defined for receiving an electrolyte solution. The housing is connected to the coupling structure so that the exposed sensing surface of the electrode structure is disposed in the electrolyte structure with its sensing surface in contact and distorting the membrane structure. The housing and coupling structures have cooperating engaged locating surfaces that define the amount of permitted distortion of the membrane structure.
Abstract:
An electrochemical sensor system includes an electrode assembly that produces a DC signal as a function of a parameter of interest sensed by the electrode system. An AC signal is applied via an electrode to the conductor fluid in which the electrode system is disposed and an AC signal detector is connected to the DC circuitry. A threshold circuit responsive to the output of the AC signal detector indicates fault in the electrochemical sensor system whenever the AC signal detector has an output of predetermined magnitude.