Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically shutting off a dispensing device when the fluid source tank is empty includes a programmed pump controller in communication with the dispensing device and a flowmeter having a pulse generator. Upon startup of the dispensing device, the controller waits for an initial time period, then periodically determines the pulse frequency which correlates to a rate of fluid flow. The pulse frequency is compared to a calculated average pulse frequency and, if the pulse frequency has changed a pre-selected, pre-determined amount or percentage when compared to the average pulse frequency the dispensing device is shut-off. The change in pulse frequency indicates ingestion of air into the pumping system meaning an empty source tank.

Abstract: An anti-theft device for Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) provides for the blurring or defacing of banknotes which are stored within ATM banknote cassettes/containers within the ATM upon a breach of security of the ATM, the breach of security being either a break-in attempt or the attempted removal of the entire ATM from its location. An indelible dye or ink, stored under pressure within a tank internal to the ATM unit, is caused to be released into a distribution manifold, which is integral with the banknote cassette and in communication with the interior thereof, upon receipt of an actuating signal. The actuating signal is preferably developed by an electrical device which triggers the release of the ink into the cassette. In one embodiment, connection and disconnection of the distribution manifold to the tank occurs automatically without user interface when cassettes are changed. In another embodiment, the distribution manifold is separate from the cassette.

Abstract: A power control system in a DIN rail mount assembly for switching power in a low cost, compact, and solid state for controlling electric heaters. The system can be used for single phase, three phase-two leg, and three phase-three leg. Current switching capabilities range from 30 A to 50 A. Variable time base, 4-20 mA process control or VAC/DC input contactor configurations can be utilized. The DIN Rail back plate includes a sliding mechanical configuration. A potting fence provides for potting of the electrical substrate and also provides a heat sink. A large cover covers finger palm safer terminals. The DIN rail assembly can also be used for supporting electrical, electromechanical, optical or other types of assemblies.

Abstract: An apparatus is shown which prevents the intrusion of liquids into a gas chromatograph wherein a ball-check valve comprised of a flotation chamber and a spherical floatable valve element is positioned between and in fluid communication with an inlet and outlet port. While gasses are permitted to flow past the valve and into the gas chromatograph, liquids are retained within the flotation chamber by the floatable valve element. When the liquid level rises to a certain level within the chamber, the valve is closed by the pressure of the liquid forcing the floatable valve element into a closed and sealed position. The ball-check valve is also surrounded by a transparent member which allows the user to view the liquid level within the valve at all times.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for use in conjunction with a Drager tube for the simultaneous testing and storage of a particular gas from a source and the subsequent flaring of the gas after testing is set forth herein. The apparatus generally includes a sample cylinder having two heads closing a chamber with an internal piston delineating two variable volume spaces therein. The front head is threaded to and in selective communication with, by means of valves disposed within channels, a supply line connected to a gas source, a test line with the Drager tube, and an exhaust line coupled to a flare line. The rear head is threaded to and in selective communication with, by valves disposed within channels, the test shaft and the exhaust line. The gas enters into the first variable volume space when the valve on the supply line is opened.

Abstract: Multiple heaters are calibrated and controlled by a microcomputer, and a multiplexer for this system. The heaters are sequentially sampled and resistance calculated from voltage and current measurements. The operator enters a temperature for the calculated resistance to establish a calibrated resistance value. During run, the computer energizes and samples each heater to calculate its resistance. The calculated resistance if divided by the calibrated resistance to determine a resistance ratio. A look-up table is stored in the computer having resistance ratios for corresponding temperature. The computer compares the calculated ratio to that of the look-up table to determine actual heater temperatures. Based upon heater temperatures, the computer controls energization of the heaters until set points are achieved. Negative temperature coefficient and positive temperature coefficient transistors and semiconductors can be utilized.

Abstract: An anti-theft device for Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) provides for the blurring or defacing of banknotes which are stored within ATM banknote cassettes/containers within the ATM upon a breach of security of the ATM, the breach of security being either a break-in attempt or the attempted removal of the entire ATM from its location. An indelible dye or ink, stored under pressure within a tank internal to the ATM unit, is caused to be released into a distribution manifold, which is integral with the banknote cassette and in communication with the interior thereof, upon receipt of an actuating signal. The actuating signal is preferably developed by an electrical device which triggers the release of the ink into the cassette. In one embodiment, connection and disconnection of the distribution manifold to the tank occurs automatically without user interface when cassettes are changed.

Abstract: A housing for a pipeline sampling apparatus is mounted upon the pipeline wherein a sample is to be taken. The housing encloses the sampling pump and probe, and the sample cylinder, while allowing easy access to the interior in order to exchange the sample cylinder. Preferably, the housing surrounds at least 40% of the pipe section where the housing is installed. By mounting the sample cylinder within the housing next to the pipeline, the sample cylinder is kept at nearly the same temperature as the fluid flow within the pipeline. Also, all of the sampling components are protected from the elements. Additionally, the sample cylinder may be supported by the housing.

Abstract: A strap hook retainer for releasably retaining the hook portion of a hold down strap. The retainer includes a rectangular frame having a first opening of a first dimension in a first elongated side, and a second opening of a second dimension in a second elongated side disposed opposite the first side. A pivoting plate is located within the frame and is attached to and pivoted by an arm that extends through, and is supported by, the two short sides of the rectangular frame. The hook may be inserted into the frame via the first opening and is retained by the pivoting plate as the hook extends through the second opening and the pivoting plate pivots downward to engage the "U" portion of the hook. The hook is prevented from release by the configuration of the second opening until the plate is manually pivoted into a raised position. The hook may then be removed from the frame while the plate is held in the raised pivot position.

Abstract: In the United States, ratchet wrenches and socket sets are conventionally manufactured in six different drive sizes as follows: 1/4 inch; 3/8 inch; 1/2 inch; 3/4 inch; 1 inch; and 1 1/4 inch. Socket sets are sized to match a specific size drive cannot be interchanged without the use of an adapter. The present invention is a low profile adapter that is manufactured in various sizes to allow a ratchet wrench to drive a socket one size larger than would otherwise be suitable. For example, the adapter allow an operator to use a 1/4 inch ratchet wrench to drive a 3/8 inch socket. Other sized adapters would be available for 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch and 1 inch drive ratchet wrenches and allow them to drive sockets one size larger. Conventional adapters are rather bulky, adding from 1/2 inch to as much as 1 5/8 inches to the overall height of the ratchet wrench and socket when assembled with the intermediary adapter. In certain tight working situations, the prior art adapters will not fit.

Abstract: A modular electrical switch provides a wiping or shearing action upon closing and opening thereof. A contact carrier disposed within a housing linearly carries a movable contact into engagement with a stationary contact. The contact carrier is guided by movable slide plates disposed on either side thereof and movable along with the contact carrier as a contact assembly. The guide plates also provide pivot recesses for pivot bosses of the contact carrier. The contact carrier is constrained to linear motion up to the point of contact between the movable contact and the stationary contact by a cam trace in the housing. After contact between the movable contact and the stationary contact, the contact carrier reaches a pocket defined by the cam trace, ceases linear movement and upwardly pivots to provide a wiping action between the movable contact and the stationary contact.

Abstract: A roll-off trailer or truck bed for hauling cargo includes a cargo controlling mechanism that allows for the controllable removal of the cargo. The roll-off trailer characteristically includes a plurality of rotatable rollers disposed transverse to the longitudinal length of the trailer. The cargo controlling mechanism includes a brake mechanism preferably associated with at least several of the plurality of rollers. When actuated, the brake mechanism retards, stops, or nonrotatably restrains rotational movement of the rollers in order to slow down or stop the off-loading of the cargo. Actuation of the brake mechanisms may be accomplished through hydraulic, electric, pneumatic, mechanical, or other means. Each brake mechanism may be separately controlled by the operator in order to selectively retard the rotation of the desired roller. Alternatively, a number of brake mechanisms may be linked together to constitute a group. A control assembly regulates the brake mechanisms of the group.

Abstract: A storage apparatus comprising a top piece, a bottom piece, a window, positioning means, and closure means. The top piece and bottom piece are correlatively sized and have a lip around each piece. In use, the lip on the top piece mates with the lip on the bottom piece thereby making a tight seal. The top piece is provided with an opening in which a window is located. The bottom piece is provided with positioning means which maintain the contents placed within the storage apparatus in stable relationship. A plurality of closure means are located on the top and bottom pieces, which mate in semi-permanent relationship. The apparatus may be displayed on a flat surface or located on a wall in accordance with the desires of the user.

Abstract: A locking assembly for preventing access to a nut threadedly secured onto a bolt, the nut and bolt generally mounting an article, such as an outboard motor, to a structure, such as a boat transom. The locking assembly is independent of the bolt and nut, and includes a cylindrical housing that receives the bolt through one end thereof and allows for the threading of the nut onto the bolt. A cap that is received on the end of the housing opposite the bolt, by a boss and counterbore arrangement, is rotatably retained by a roll pin. The cap includes a tapered bore that receives a threaded stud and locking lug assembly. The threaded stud is received by a locking lever that is nonrotatably retained within the housing. As the locking lug is tightened, the cap is secured to the housing to prevent access to the nut.

Abstract: Contact tips and diffusers, known as consumables, for MIG welding guns have a combined increase in mass over the prior art. The larger combined mass of the contact tips and diffusers, coupled with a three point thermal and electrical engagement, increase the life of the tips by a factor of between 2 and 6 times the prior art. The contact tip and diffuser engage; i) between a circumferential shoulder of the contact tip and the end of the circumferential opening of the lower interior chamber of the gas diffuser; ii) between the protrusion of the gas diffuser and a point on the circumferential channel of the contact tip; and iii) between a line on the contact tip opposite the protrusion of the gas diffuser and a line on an inner surface of the second interior chamber of the gas diffuser opposite the protrusion. A cam replaces prior art threads.

Abstract: In a torch which uses oxygen and a fuel gas, a first flashback assembly and a second flashback assembly are formed as an integral part of the torch handle. Each flashback assembly includes three primary components as follows: a porous metal flashback arrestor, a retainer and a check valve subassembly. In the preferred embodiment, the porous metal flashback arrestor is mounted on one end of the retainer and the check valve subassembly is held in the other end. In an alternative embodiment, the check valve subassembly is positioned on the interior of the porous metal flashback arrestor. Each flashback assembly can be easily removed and replaced during periodic reconditioning of the torch. The flashback assemblies utilize a parts-in-place principle which precludes operation of the torch unless both flashback assemblies are installed in the torch handle. The porous metal flashback arrestor is designed to reduce the possibility of migration of a flashback upstream from the torch.

Abstract: A gas pressure regulator for regulating the output pressure of a gas from a pressurized gas cylinder includes a flashback assembly disposed at the gas outlet of the pressure regulator. The flashback assembly includes three primary components as follows: a porous metal flashback arrestor, a retainer, and a check valve sub-assembly. In the preferred embodiment, the porous metal flashback arrestor is mounted on one end of the retainer and the check valve sub-assembly is disposed within the retainer adjacent the metal flashback arrestor. The flashback assembly can be easily removed and replaced. The porous metal flashback arrestor is designed to reduce the possibility of migration of a flashback upstream from the torch and hose into the pressure regulator. The check valve sub-assembly is designed to reduce the possibility of reverse flow of gas upstream from the hose into the pressure regulator.