초록 ▼

A method and system are disclosed for detecting the presence of a gas in a pump chamber of a pumping system. The methods, and systems employing the methods, involve isolating a pump chamber from its surroundings, for example by closing an inlet and outlet valve on lines to and from the chamber, and

A method and system are disclosed for detecting the presence of a gas in a pump chamber of a pumping system. The methods, and systems employing the methods, involve isolating a pump chamber from its surroundings, for example by closing an inlet and outlet valve on lines to and from the chamber, and determining the volume of the pump chamber with a force applied to a moveable or flexible surface of the pump chamber. The volume of the pump chamber is then redetermined in a similar fashion but with a second, different level of force applied to the surface of the pump chamber. The volumes thus determined can then be compared to detect the presence of a gas in the pump chamber.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A method for detecting the presence of a gas in an isolatable pump chamber comprising:isolating the pump chamber;determining a first measured parameter related to a volume of the pump chamber with at least a first force applied to a surface of the pump chamber;determini

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A method for detecting the presence of a gas in an isolatable pump chamber comprising:isolating the pump chamber;determining a first measured parameter related to a volume of the pump chamber with at least a first force applied to a surface of the pump chamber;determining a second measured parameter related to a volume of the pump chamber with at least a second force applied to a surface of the pump chamber; andcomparing said first measured parameter and said second measured parameter.