Abstract: A rain gauge device is provided that uses a plurality of conductivity sensors to determine liquid levels. Certain rain gauge devices include a plurality of conductivity sensors fixed along the length of a support member, wherein each conductivity sensor comprises at least two selectable electrodes for sensing the presence of a liquid by measuring a conductivity of the liquid between these electrodes when a liquid is present between the sensing electrodes, and an electronic command unit adapted to apply a voltage between a common electrode and a selected electrode. Level measuring devices are also provided that comprise a collector, a measuring tube, a plurality of conductivity sensors and an electronic command unit for applying a voltage across the conductivity sensors and for converting the conductivity measured into a digital output for each increment. Methods of use and operation are also provided.

Abstract: A rain gauge device is provided that uses a plurality of conductivity sensors to determine liquid levels. Certain rain gauge devices include a plurality of conductivity sensors fixed along the length of a support member, wherein each conductivity sensor comprises at least two selectable electrodes for sensing the presence of a liquid by measuring a conductivity of the liquid between these electrodes when a liquid is present between the sensing electrodes, and an electronic command unit adapted to apply a voltage between a common electrode and a selected electrode. Level measuring devices are also provided that comprise a collector, a measuring tube, a plurality of conductivity sensors and an electronic command unit for applying a voltage across the conductivity sensors and for converting the conductivity measured into a digital output for each increment. Methods of use and operation are also provided.

Abstract: A rain gauge device is provided that uses a plurality of conductivity sensors to determine liquid levels. Certain rain gauge devices include a plurality of conductivity sensors fixed along the length of a support member, wherein each conductivity sensor comprises at least two selectable electrodes for sensing the presence of a liquid by measuring a conductivity of the liquid between these electrodes when a liquid is present between the sensing electrodes, and an electronic command unit adapted to apply a voltage between a common electrode and a selected electrode. Level measuring devices are also provided that comprise a collector, a measuring tube, a plurality of conductivity sensors and an electronic command unit for applying a voltage across the conductivity sensors and for converting the conductivity measured into a digital output for each increment. Methods of use and operation are also provided.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a relative location detection apparatus including a detection unit having a support board having a plurality of spaced reed switches mounted along a lengthwise axis of the support board. Each of the reed switches has a longitudinal axis oriented substantially perpendicular to the lengthwise axis of the support board. A high intensity magnet is coupled to the support board for movement relative to the support board and in a direction substantially parallel to the support board's lengthwise axis. The magnet has north and south poles that are oppositely positioned to one another and directed toward one another across a width of the support board and into periodic alignment with the longitudinal axes of the reed switches. The magnet has a magnetic force sufficiently focused so that the magnet actuates the reed switches individually thereby indicating the magnet's location.

Abstract: A double sided primed circuit board is shown wherein one side is etched for receiving a plurality of surface mounted components constituting a control circuit. In one embodiment the control circuit provides for regulating the operation of a plurality to the beverage dispensing valves. An op-amp monitors the conductor for sensing the operation of the beverage dispensing valves as a function of a voltage drop there across. The conductor operates as a resistor, and any heating thereof that occurs as a result of the operation of the beverage dispensing valves is dissipated over the entire surface area of the circuit board. The control circuit also operates a dump valve for periodically dumping beverage if any of the valves have not been operated for a set period of time. The control circuit deactivates the operation of the dump valve during any sensed operation of one of the beverage dispense valves.

Abstract: An improved liquid level measuring apparatus having a plurality of spaced reed switches having a microprocessor attached to the liquid level measuring sensor apparatus. The switches are wired together in parallel and in sets and are addressed by a shift register for providing a parallel to serial shift of the switch status position to the microprocessor. This allows a reduction in the number of conductors existing the sensor and providing an output signal indicating the vertical position of a float relative to the switches. A microprocessor control notes any inoperative switches, disregards the reading of the inoperative switches in calculating liquid level, and provides stored information to the measurement process for compensating for defective switches.

Abstract: The present invention is a beverage dispensing valve having an exterior housing consisting of a main housing cover and an access plate slideably engageable therewith. The access plate houses electronics for controlling the operation of the valve wherein the electronic control is electrically connected to a power source and an operating solenoid through a plug connection. The plug connection provides for complete removal of the access plate from the remainder of the valve.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for electronically controlling the size of an ice bank, particularly as used in beverage dispensing equipment. A single pair of probes provide for both establishing a reference conductivity value of the water so that the present invention is adaptable to a wide variance in water qualities. In addition, the single pair of sensors also provide for sensing the physical size of the ice bank.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for maintaining cold carbonated water in a beverage dispensing device so that unacceptably warm water is not dispensed therefrom. A modified beverage dispensing apparatus is shown including a carbonated water supply, a cold plate, a cabonated water supply line extending through the cold plate, and in fluid communication with a carbonated water plenum immediately adjacent and in fluid communication with a plurality of beverage dispensing valves. An electronic control device connected to a temperature sensing thermostat located in the plenum and to a solenoid discharge valve of the plenum. The control device is also connected to a temperature sensing thermostat in the cold plate and to a pressure sensor located in the line between the source of compressed carbon dioxide and the carbonated water reservoir.

Abstract: A control system for use with a drink dispenser comprises a mode switch for causing the control system to switch between operation in a program mode and a dispense mode. Volumetric parameter data is provided by a volumetric parameter generator and is representative of dispensed drink volume. A memory stores the volumetric parameter data. A controller is coupled to the mode switch, the memory and the volumetric parameter generator and causes the volumetric parameter data to be stored in the memory while the control system is operating in the program mode and causes drink volume to be dispensed as a function of the stored volumetric parameter data while the control system is operating in the dispense mode.

Abstract: A plurality of spaced reed switches vertically aligned for positioning in a liquid. Each of the reed switches vertically overlaps the adjacent above and below reed switches and the longitudinal axis of the reed switches is at an angle to the vertical. A float carries magnets and is movably positioned coaxially about the plurality of switches. An electrical indicator is connected to the switches for indicating the vertical position of the float relative to the switches.

Abstract: An automatic beverage dispensing system includes a probe assembly for automatically shutting off dispensing when dispensed beverage reaches a predetermined level. Upon initial shut-off, a waiting period occurs during which the foam portion at top of the beverage is allowed to settle. At the end of the wait period, an additional top-off period is initiated during which beverage is again dispensed to top-off the beverage to the desired level.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for maintaining cold carbonated water in a beverage dispensing device so that unacceptably warm water is not dispensed therefrom. A modified beverage dispensing apparatus is shown including a carbonated water supply, a cold plate, carbonated water supply line extending through the cold plate, and in fluid communication with a carbonated water plenum immediately adjacent and in fluid communication with a plurality of beverage dispensing valves. An electronic control device connected to a temperature sensing thermostat located in the plenum and to a solenoid discharge valve of the plenum. The control device is also connected to a temperature sensing thermostat in the cold plate and to a pressure sensor located in the line between the source of compressed carbon dioxide and the carbonated water reservoir.

Abstract: An electronic metronome for training musical students in various rhythm patterns is disclosed. The electronic metronome is battery powered and completely contained within a hand held component case for ease in transport and storage. A solid state memory device which may be selectively programmed with a plurality of digital logic signals by means of manual switches is automatically and repetitively accessed in a selected sequential order and at a selected rate and the digital logic signals stored therein are converted to audible "clicks" or tones and inaudible pauses. Variable amplification circuitry coupled to the output of the memory device permits the volume of the clicks or tones to be selected by the operator and a pair of light emitting diodes permits the output of the memory device to be simultaneously converted to a visual signal.

Abstract: A direct current operated bailer pump which utilizes battery power to winch up, while recovering the energy generated by the motor acting as a generator during the downward movement of the bailer to recharge the battery. A sensing circuit senses when the bailer contacts the surface of the oil by monitoring the generated voltage from the motor. A voltage drop corresponds to the sudden decrease in velocity as the bailer encounters the surface of the oil in the well. A dynamic brake is connected to the motor, after a set time period, to decrease the down speed of the bailer to a predetermined safe speed.

Abstract: A solid state switching controller for use with various types of oil well bailer pumps. Individually programmable steps with lockouts provide multiple mutual exclusivity between various circuit operations. A trickle charge battery system powers the control circuits. A tank overflow float protects against oil spillage. An automatic production rate adjustment circuit is provided which increases cycle time in proportion to the rate of production. The circuit includes a low power voltage detector for disabling the control circuits until the line voltage is acceptable. A three-phase power and control system with an isolation transformer for the controls avoids unreliable ground connections. The timers include a dividing circuit with an RC circuit. All power actuated apparatus are actuated by triac switches which are controlled by an opto driver. The bailer brake is pulse actuated for allowing the bailer to sink into crude oil without excess cable looseness.

Abstract: The present invention is for an automatic gate opening device where commercial electricity is not economically available. A hydraulic cylinder operated by a bidirectional gear pump moves a cylinder rod which connects to an opening rod. The opening rod is pivotally connected to one end to the gate and on the other end to a stationary location. Due to pivotal connections and a pivotal linkage near the middle of the opening rod, the gate may be opened and closed by the hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic cylinder is also pivotally mounted. Electronic controls may be operated by a number of different type sensors, including limit switches on the hydraulic cylinder, sensors for detecting the gate location, manual switches or other traditional vehicle approach sensors. Power is provided by a storage battery, which battery can be recharged during daylight hours at a solar panel or by a traditional battery charger.

Abstract: A dental mirror warmer to prevent fogging when the mirror is placed in a patient's mouth includes a housing with a cover having an opening. Below the opening is a heating well to receive the reflective end of the mirror. The well has a stainless steel wall connected to a transformer which supplies high current at low voltage to heat the wall. The supply to the transformer is controlled by a photoresponsive device responsive to insertion of the mirror and a timing circuit which permits current supply for a short heating interval. A temperature sensor shortens the interval when heating cycles are initiated frequently. The photoresponsive device is mounted in the housing in juxtaposition with a light transmissive opening in a wall of the heating well. The photoresponsive device includes a source of light arranged to direct light into the heating well through the opening and a photoresponsive element arranged to receive light reflected from the reflective surface of a mirror inserted into the heating well.

Abstract: A film drive mechanism is disclosed for use with a radiographic apparatus which provides continuous radiographs or x-rays of a selected portion of a subject lying in a horizontal position by simultaneously rotating an x-ray source and an x-ray film holder including an x-ray film about the subject. An x-ray film cassette is mounted in the film holder and while the film holder rotates about the subject, the film cassette is moved past an x-ray slit. The film holder includes a novel drive mechanism for moving the cylindrical film cassette, in which an x-ray film is placed, at the proper rate of speed to provide the desired x-ray during rotation of the source and film holder. This is accomplished by utilizing a sloped cam having a configuration determined by the desired focal trough to vary the relative rotation of the shaft of a motor driving the film and the housing of the motor.

Abstract: A conveyor apparatus, such as a cart, is disclosed, for aiding in the placement of subjects to be x-rayed in position in a radiographic apparatus. The conveyor apparatus includes a conveyor belt on which a patient is placed and a mechanical linkage having a mechanical advantage connecting the conveyor belt to an operator, so that relatively small movement of the operator causes relatively large movement of the patient carrying conveyor belt.