Abstract: In a liquid treating equipment to maintain a small amount of liquid to a desired liquid level with constantly supplying an additional liquid into a small capacity vessel, a storage vessel 13 to store the small amount of liquid, an injection tube 16 to inject the small amount of liquid into the storage vessel 16, liquid supplying apparatus 23–25 to supply the small amount of liquid into the storage vessel through the injection tube, a flow path 15 of which one end is joined with the storage vessel, a discharge vessel 14, joined with the storage vessel 13 via the flow path, having a larger surface area than that of the storage vessel, a discharge tube 17 of which the discharging inlet is positioned at the same level position as a desired liquid level of the small amount of liquid in the storage vessel and liquid discharging apparatus 27–29 to discharge the liquid from the discharge vessel through the discharge tube are provided.

Abstract: An intelligent seal support management system includes a device for automatically compensating for increased heat or decreased heat in a vessel.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for controlling a level in a receptacle capable of storing a fluid. The apparatus includes a first valve governing ingress of the fluid to the receptacle, a second valve governing egress of fluid from the receptacle, wherein the second valve is positioned below the first valve. The apparatus also includes a first switch deployed between the first valve and the second valve, wherein the first switch is capable of providing a first signal indicative of fluid at the first switch and a second switch deployed between the first switch and the second valve, wherein the second switch is capable of providing a second signal indicative of an absence of fluid at the second switch. The apparatus also includes a controller capable of controlling a fluid level in the receptacle by opening and closing the first and second valves responsive to the first and second signals.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a novel level switch which may be employed to detect liquid levels within a process vessel. The level switch of the present invention is self validating so that manual testing is not required in order to ensure proper operation and switch calibration. The switch of the present invention may be easily introduced into existing process vessel designs as a replacement for prior art level detection switches with minimal or no retrofitting effort being required. The self validating level switch of the present invention may be connected to a Safety Instrumented System (SIS) such that process control including process shutdowns to avoid overfilling and low-fluid conditions may be accomplished.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for controlling the composition and/or volume of a fluid within a reservoir. The device includes a reservoir adapted to contain at least one fluid, a means for monitoring a characteristic of the fluid contained in the reservoir, and a means for introducing additional fluid into the reservoir according to the fluid characteristic monitored by the monitoring means. The device also includes an acoustic generator for generating acoustic radiation. A dispensing means may be provided as well. Other devices and methods that use acoustic radiation to control the composition and/or volume of a fluid within a reservoir are included.

Abstract: A chemical supplying apparatus including first and second mixing tanks for mixing and supplying chemical slurries used in a semiconductor fabrication process. The slurries are alternately provided from the first and second mixing tanks such that the slurry is continuously available to a processing apparatus for maximum efficiency. While one of the tanks is supplying the slurry, the other tank is cleaned and then used to prepare a new batch of the slurry.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the balancing of fuel among tanks in a circulating fuel system. The tanks in the system have both a draw conduit and a return conduit mounted to and extending into the tank. Flow restriction devices are mounted in both the draw and the return conduits and are controlled by a fuel level detection system, which detects the fuel in the tank.

Abstract: An automatic liquid dispensing device with smart properties. The automatic liquid dispensing device preferably includes a storage chamber, measuring chamber, and evaporation chamber. The evaporation chamber contains an evaporation pool that is inset in the evaporation chamber. The storage chamber and measuring chamber are operatively connected by a storage/measuring passage, the measuring chamber and evaporation chamber are operatively connected by a measuring/evaporation passage, and the storage chamber and evaporation chamber are operatively connected by a storage/evaporation passage.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a novel level switch which may be employed to detect liquid levels within a process vessel. The level switch of the present invention is self validating so that manual testing is not required in order to ensure proper operation and switch calibration. The switch of the present invention may be easily introduced into existing process vessel designs as a replacement for prior art level detection switches with minimal or no retrofitting effort being required. The self validating level switch of the present invention may be connected to a Safety Instrumented System (SIS) such that process control including process shutdowns to avoid overfilling and low-fluid conditions may be accomplished.

Abstract: A diverter valve for selectively passing water from a ballcock valve directly to a water storage tank or to the rim of a toilet. It includes a diverter plunger which places a deflector into the path of water from the ballcock, and a float which removes the deflector from the lumen when the ballcock valve is closed and the water level is sufficiently high, and lowers the plunger when the water level is sufficiently low.

Abstract: The invention provides a device for controlling the composition and/or volume of a fluid within a reservoir. The device includes a reservoir adapted to contain at least one fluid, a means for monitoring a characteristic of the fluid contained in the reservoir, and a means for introducing additional fluid into the reservoir according to the fluid characteristic monitored by the monitoring means. The device also includes an acoustic generator for generating acoustic radiation. A dispensing means may be provided as well. Other devices and methods that use acoustic radiation to control the composition and/or volume of a fluid within a reservoir are included.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the flow rate of a fluid based on the fluid weight. A container is provided between a fluid source and a fluid removal system. A valve is arranged between the fluid source and the container, to control the admitting of fluid into the container from the source, and removal of fluid from the container by the removal system. The valve is controlled by a weight-responsive mechanism, which detects a change in weight of the container due to the admitting and removal of fluid, and opens or closes the valve accordingly. A flow rate of the fluid may be determined in terms of a time period between the closing and subsequent opening of the valve.

Abstract: A control system for maintaining the liquid levels in a plurality of reservoirs connected in series includes one or more nested control modules. The nested control module, one for each reservoir, includes a proportional only level controller in electrical communication with the respective level sensor of each respective reservoir and is adapted to produce an output that becomes a set point for one or more respective PID flow controllers adapted to control the respective outflows of said respective reservoirs. The control system results in maintaining liquid levels in the reservoirs while substantially eliminating flow and level oscillations.

Abstract: An improved portable water purification system with reduced leaks and the capability of automatic draining of its boiling tank, as well as to a method of preventing water spillage from a portable water purification system and a method of draining a boiling tank of a portable water purification system. The system includes a control tank that is connected to a water supply, a boiling tank that is connected to the control tank for boiling water, a condenser that is connected to the boiling tank for receiving steam from the boiling tank and for condensing the steam to form distilled water, and a distilled water tank that is connected to the condenser for collecting distilled water from the condenser. An inlet solenoid control valve is disposed between the water supply and the control tank, with the inlet solenoid control valve controlling flow of water to the control tank. The system further includes a UV light sanitizer, leak prevention and leak detection features, and a mechanism for detecting water quality.

Abstract: In a system and method for sensing and controlling the level of a fluid in a tank, the system includes a fluid inlet, for enabling the flow of fluid into the tank, and a controller, for controlling the flow of fluid through the fluid inlet. The system further includes a sensor, for sensing the level of the fluid in the tank, for activating the controller responsive thereto, and for directing the flow of fluid out of the tank. The system also includes a connector for connecting the sensor to the controller. The sensor comprises a siphon outlet tube, comprised of a conductive material, including a downwardly depending portion which includes a leading edge having a substantial surface area for contact by the fluid upon reaching a preset level in the tank.

Abstract: A constant flow liquid supplier includes a body having a cavity defined to contain liquid. An inlet assembly floats on the liquid surface and selectively opens the inlet of the constant flow liquid supplier. An outlet assembly floats on the liquid surface and has an inverted U-shaped siphon. The siphon has an inlet in the cavity and an outlet out of the body. The outlet is lower than the inlet. According to the principles of operation of a siphon and the structure of the present invention, the liquid in the body will flow out of the outlet of the siphon at a constant rate until the siphon shuts off.

Abstract: A fuel tank valve apparatus for use with a fuel tank. The fuel tank apparatus has an inlet neck defining a valve chamber, a valve housing positioned in the valve chamber, a valve positioned to move within the valve housing to regulate flow of liquid fuel into the fuel tank, and a retainer. The inlet neck is attachable to the fuel tank. The valve housing is retained in the inlet neck for communicating with the fuel tank. Connecting the inlet neck to the fuel tank maintains the integrity of the tank and inlet neck material.

Abstract: A control system for maintaining the liquid levels in a plurality of reservoirs connected in series includes a parenthetical control module and one or more nested control modules. The parenthetical control module includes a proportional only level controller in electrical communication with the level sensor of said last reservoir (VOUT) in the series and is adapted to produce an output signal that becomes a set point for one or more PID flow controllers controlling the inflow (FIN) into the first reservoir (V1) in the series. The nested control module, one for each reservoir upstream of said last reservoir (VOUT), includes a proportional only level controller in electrical communication with the respective level sensor of each respective upstream reservoir and is adapted to produce an output that becomes a set point for one or more PID flow controllers adapted to control the respective outflows of said respective upstream reservoirs.

Abstract: An electronic controller for controlling the fill, settle and draw operations of three settling tanks which are used with a reverse osmosis unit. The three settling tanks provide a pair of liquid level input signals which indicate the water level within each of the three settling tanks. A bounce eliminator circuit eliminates oscillations from the input signals, providing at its outputs steady state liquid level signals which are active low. The liquid level signals are supplied to a programmable logic device which has a state machine. The state machine sequentially controls the fill, draw and settle operations of the three settling tanks. The programmable logic device provides logic signals which are active low and which activate fill and draw valves associated with each of the three tanks.

Abstract: A motor vehicle fuel fill pipe shut-off device includes a fuel shut-off valve normally closed relative to a valve seat and disposed in a path of fuel flow through the fuel fill pipe of the motor vehicle to a fuel tank thereof.

Abstract: The present invention provides a process for controlling the level of an ammonium fluoride-containing acid solution in an acid vessel. First, a tube provided with at least one hole in the sidewall is used as a high level sensing tube for the acid solution in the acid vessel. Then, an inert gas is blown into the high level sensing tube. The pressure of the inert gas is measured such that the acid solution is charged when the pressure is a first value and the acid solution is drained when the pressure is a second value larger than the first value. By means of the process of the present invention, when the bottom of the high level sensing tube is jammed with ammonium fluoride crystals and the acid solution level has not reached a level submerging the at least one hole, the inert gas can flow out via the at least one hole and the pressure measured is the first value.

Abstract: An automatic flush water distribution system for use in an evaporative cooling system includes a water distribution pipe adapted to be connected to a source of pressurized water. The pipe has a plurality of water distribution ports formed therein and a vertical flush pipe is connected at a first end to the water distribution pipe in liquid communication therewith. The flush pipe includes a second lower end and contains at least one valve seat and at least one buoyant float valve located therein between the valve seat and the water distribution pipe.

Abstract: A cleaning and filtering apparatus and method for a tank such as an aquarium. The major components are an inlet water controller, a suction unit, and a filter container unit. The filter container is selectively connected to the suction unit and a waste outlet to clean the tank and discharge waste water from the tank. The inlet water controller comprises a float connected to a valve to automatically replace the discharged water when the water level in the tank drops.

Abstract: A tap used for controlling the flow of liquid, such as water, oil, or gas, is disclosed. The liquid control tap of this invention has a valve capable of being effectively operated using inexhaustible energy, such as gravity, hydraulic pressure, buoyancy, magnetic force, frictional force, or elasticity. In the tap, a connection pipe, used for the purpose of connecting the tap body to a separate device such as a shower device, is integrated with the rear portion of the tap body into a single structure. The tap is also provided with an eccentric union for controlling the vertical position of the outlet port of the tap. Therefore, the present invention reduces the number of parts, the manufacturing process, improves productivity, and reduces the manufacturing cost of taps.

Abstract: A valve assembly that is composed of simple parts is described that is used to provide a sump pit water control device that operates due to the level of water within the sump and not by electricity. This valve assembly includes an adapter in the form of a tee-pipe that is capped at one end and attached at the other end to a drain tile pipe entering the sump. The third and remaining end of the tee-pipe is open but has a valve disposed therein that is operable between two positions. A float member is attached to the valve member by way of a cable so that as the water level rises in the sump, the valve member is drawn closed, and when the water level is at a normal or low level, the valve member is biased into an open position by a spring.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an automated processing liquid drain system that utilizes a series of processing liquid drain tanks and at least two waste collection tanks that are in fluid communication with the processing liquid drain tanks such that when a high liquid level sensor mounted on the drain tank is activated, the spent processing liquid collected from processing machines can be transferred to one of the waste collection tanks and thus preventing overflow in the processing liquid drain tanks.

Abstract: A fluid level management system for controlling a fluid level contained within a reservoir housing is described. The fluid level management system utilizes two separate predetermined fluid levels, a first and a second spaced below the first, to create a fluid level differential though which a control apparatus actuates a single activation switch. Use of the fluid level management system in conjunction with a pump for removing the fluid contained within the housing is further described. The pump is responsive to the control apparatus actuating and deactuating the switch depending on the fluid being at the first or second predetermined fluid level, respectively.

Abstract: A combination valve and trap device is described for use in liquid supply and liquid disposal systems. Floats of various size, weight and shape are encased in cylindrical housings with inverse funnel inlets and outlets. The device functions as a valve, trap and back-flow safety device, depending on the float configuration, requiring neither mechanical apparatus nor external power supply for functionality.

Abstract: An apparatus is described for the intermediate storage and control or release of a predeterminable quantity of water, wherein the predeterminable quantity of water is replenished, each time it has been released, from a supply main for the intermediate storage via an automatically acting supply valve arrangement. An elongate and substantially tubular container integratable into a wall construction is provided for the intermediate storage. This container is surrounded at least extensively by insulating material and is equipped at the outlet side with a valve which can be triggered to release the predeterminable quantity of water by means of an actuating element which can be installed at the container or at freely selectable distances from the container.

Abstract: A constant level of fluid (8 or 106) in vessel (1 or 104) is maintained using a reservoir (5 or 102) and a tank (4 or 101). Float valves (9 or 107) which raise and lower with the level of fluid in the reservoir are used to selectively close off fluid passages (13 or 109) from the tank into the reservoir. Until the desired level of fluid is reached in the reservoir, the reservoir continuously provides fluid to the vessel. Once fluid flow into the reservoir is stopped, flow from the reservoir into the vessel also stops. The vessel can be positioned adjacent to or remote from the reservoir.

Abstract: A device comprising a chamber (10) with a maximum fluid level (14) established by an internal drain pipe (62) directing excess fluid to a point of disposal (44) and an internal replenishment fluid supply valve (16) providing any additional fluid required to maintain a minimum fluid level (12). The chamber (10) is remotely connected by unpressurized fluid conduits (32 & 34 & 40) to one or more fluid containers (30 & 38) which are to have maximum regulated levels (72 & 74) and minimum regulated levels (36 & 42) controlled by the device. The chamber (10) is established so that the maximum and minimum fluid levels (14 & 12) are respectively set at the same elevation as the maximum and minimum regulated fluid levels (72, 74 & 36, 42) of the regulated containers (30 & 38).

Abstract: A system to be utilized at a dairy in the distribution of a pumpable food product from a storage tank to a filling machine for dispensing into containers. The system includes a balance tank for storing the product on the filling machine. The balance tank is in flow communication with a storage tank via a product line, and also has a level probe for monitoring the amount of product in the tank. A product pump pumps the food product to a valve mechanism which is also disposed on the product line. A programmable logic controller receives a signal from the probe indicative of the level of the product in the balance tank, and generates a series of signals to the product pump and the valve mechanism to maintain a steady flow of product from the storage tank to the balance tank. In this manner, foaming of the product in the balance tank is eliminated or substantially reduced to acceptable levels.

Abstract: A straight trap toilet apparatus mainly comprises a main body with a straight trap, a piston, and a toilet bowl. The water outlet of the main body is connected to a waste pipe, and the top of the main body is mounted below the toilet bowl. The main body has a water valve, wherein one end of the water valve is connected to an inlet tube connected to a water-faucet, and the other end of the water valve is connected to an outlet tube that corresponds to the spurt water hole of the toilet bowl. In normal condition, water flows from the outlet tube into the toilet bowel and the main body. A water tank is in fluid communication with the main body by a linking tube such that the water in the toilet bowel and the water tank are at the same level. The motion of the float ball will control a valve handle to control the water valve for controlling the water intake. The water from the outlet tube may gather together in the main body, the toilet bowel, and is in fluid communication with the water tank by a linking tube.

Abstract: A windshield washer nozzle with a drain port is disclosed. In the nozzle with liquid inlet and outlet ports, a partition wall is formed in the middle portion of the passage between the two ports, thus branching a drain port from the main passage. A pressure float valve is movably positioned in the middle portion of the main passage. The valve moves upward or downward under the guide of the partition wall in accordance with the pressure of the liquid in the passage, thus selectively closing the drain port or the passage. The drain port automatically drains the liquid from the nozzle at the end of a liquid ejecting operation, thus allowing the nozzle to be free from any deposits and preventing the nozzle from being blocked or unexpectedly frozen up in cold weather.

Abstract: A fail-safe fluid transfer control apparatus has full redundancy in the response to various inputs such as overfill probe signals, ground detection signals, and the like. Independent microprocessor controllers independently evaluate the inputs and each output control signals to close a respective relay when the inputs indicate that fluid transfer may commence. The relays are arranged in series such that both must be closed for a fluid transfer to commence. The control signals from each controller include a static signal and an alternating signal, both of which must be properly output to close its respective relay. Each controller monitors the state of each relay, and discontinues its control signals if either relay appears to be malfunctioning. Each controller runs an different, independently written firmware program to process the detected inputs to prevent a common firmware error.

Abstract: This invention provides a valveless method and apparatus for high speed switching of liquid flow between intersecting microchannels. Liquid flow is controlled by manipulating external driving pressures. The switch comprises three intersecting microchannels, each having a liquid reservoir at its nonintersecting end for liquid inlet and outlet. It further includes applying a driving pressure to each reservoir switching the driving pressures. The microswitch of this invention operates to establish a liquid flow from a first channel to a second channel by applying a pressure differential between the first and second reservoirs, while simultaneously preventing flow into the third channel by applying a pressure to the third reservoir which equals the pressure at the junction of the three channels. By switching one or more driving pressures, the flow to the second channel can be stopped and the liquid flow redirected to the third channel.

Abstract: A liquid flow control apparatus (5) suitable for handling milk from a milking machine, comprising a first chamber (10) that comprises an inlet (11) for the milk, an outlet (12) for connecting to a vacuum pump, and an outlet (14) for the milk to flow by gravity to a second chamber (13). The first chamber (10) and the second chamber (13) are in communication with each other by means of the outlet (14) at the bottom of the first chamber (10). The second chamber (13) has a float valve (23) that closes off communication between the first chamber (10) and the second chamber (13) depending on the level of liquid in the second chamber (13). A conduit tube (18) for air communication is disposed between the first chamber (10) and the second chamber (13). A second float valve (17b) closes off communication via the conduit tube (18) between the two chambers. A third chamber (21) has two valves with one valve (26) opening to the atmosphere and a second valve (20) opening to the second chamber (13).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for replenishing the lubricating oil of an internal combustion engine involving, during operation of the engine, continuously supplying a predetermined quantity of new oil from a reserve tank in which lubricating oil is stored to a holding region for lubricating oil circulated to the engine. As a result, an adequate effective extension of the life of the lubricating oil can be achieved, so that maintenance of the engine lubricating oil can be greatly reduced.

Abstract: A toilet reservoir water dumping valve for sealing the reservoir's water outlet by hydraulic pressure and for controlling the water volume to be flushed. The dumping valve is situated in the toilet reservoir at the water outlet to the toilet bowl, the dumping valve comprising a membrane housing, and a rod connected to a flush valve. In a first position, when the flush lever is in OFF position, the membrane disconnects communication between the supply line and the reservoir. Simultaneously, the rod is pressed by hydraulic pressure, tightly pushing a flush valve against the reservoir exit. In a second position, when the water is flushed, the membrane opens communication between the supply line and the reservoir, reducing the pressure on the rod, such that the rod pulls the flush valve away from the reservoir outlet, permitting water to be flushed down the toilet bowl.

Abstract: A sewage treatment system includes a pair of substantially identical unitary fluid treatment modules, each module having a central sedimentation tank surrounded by a peripheral wetland. The sedimentation tanks are coupled through a dosing device to an input source of sewage and, as an outlet, to a leaching field. The dosing device includes a switching mechanism isolated from the fluids, which mechanism provides in one cycle for one treatment module to be filled with the incoming sewage while maintaining its outlet closed. When the liquid level in the sedimentation tank in the first treatment module reaches a predetermined level the dosing device switches the sewage input to the other treatment module, while opening the outlet from the first treatment module to the leaching field. The dosing device switching mechanism employs pinch valves arranged so that when the inlet on one treatment module is closed, the inlet on the other treatment module is substantially simultaneously opened.

Abstract: A consistent-delivery flush and fill system for a water tank. A vertically movable post with a central passage carries a valve plug to open and close a valve seat for a discharge port from the tank. Buoyancy means on the post respond to the water level in the tank. A tank valve supplies water to the tank. When the tank is full the tank valve is closed. Engagement means on the post prevents the tank valve from opening until the tank is substantially emptied, at which time the valve plug closes the discharge port and enables the tank valve to open, having delivered a substantially constant volume of water from flush-to-flush.

Abstract: An automatic system is disclosed which monitors and replenishes hazardous liquids in their holding tanks, as such liquids are typically used in manufacturing processes. The inventive system and method obviate the need for manual surveillance and handling of the hazardous liquids during the detection and replenishment maintenance tasks. In prior practice, maintenance personnel were subjected to dangers from the hazardous liquids and their noxious gases, while the work area (e.g., clean room) in the vicinity of the liquid tanks was also subjected to contamination.

Abstract: A variable residence time treatment system for liquid has a reactor vessel with variable effective holding volume. Liquid is admitted with at least one treatment material to adjust a property of the liquid, such as its pH, a discharge outlet is open full time during operation of the system to pass discharge flow from the reactor tank at its full holding volume. Treated liquid can be selectively discharged when the reactor vessel is less than full. Thus, the effective resident time of liquid in the reactor vessel is controlled by controlling the effective holding volume of the reactor tank in response to a holding volume control signal. A sensor monitors a property of the liquid and generates a corresponding input signal. A controller generates the control signal in response to the input signal.

Abstract: A condensate recovering vacuum pump uses the condensate in a condensate tank as the boiler feed water. A circulating pump supplies the feed water to the feed-water ejection nozzle of a jet pump. The condensate collected from the steam trap of the steam-using equipment is returned to the condensate tank together with the feed water. The penstock of a tank water level gauge is connected to the condensate tank through a throttle orifice while the upper part of the penstock is connected to the condensate tank 14 through an equalizing pipe. Water-level sensors to detect the water levels required for control are provided in the penstock. The condensate recovered by the jet pump from the trap of the steam-using equipment contains leaked steam and residual air in the piping.

Abstract: A toilet flushing apparatus designed to prevent excess loss of water that may happen when the flush valve stays open as the inlet valve is putting water into the tank. The initial flushing lifts the flush valve which acts in conjunction with a counter-weight and controller arm attached to the float ball arm. The controller arm supports the float ball and thus allows the intake valve to remain in the closed position until the flush valve has closed completely, at which time the float ball is lowered and water is let in to the tank.

Abstract: A valve apparatus in which moisture sensitive material controls the opening size of a water valve. The moisture sensitive material is placed in an evaporative pad of an evaporative cooler. As the material dries, the moisture sensitive material constricts to open a valve draining a timing reservoir so as to hasten the refreshing of moisture to the evaporative pad. In an alternative embodiment, this moisture sensitive material located in the evaporative pad is balanced against an identical moisture sensitive material located in a constantly moisturized pad. This balancing of the materials permits fine control of the moisture content in the evaporative pad.

Abstract: A valve operating on hydraulic pressure for the control of water being deposited onto evaporative pads located on a cool tower. The valve utilizes water flow to fill a basin or tank which is slowly being drained. When the tank is empty, a valve is opened that releases water to the evaporative cooling pads and also to the tank; when the tank is filled, the valve closes permitting the tank to slowly drain and repeat the cycle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically and sequentially distilling batches of water having substantially equal volumes in a plurality of distillation cycles, one batch in each cycle. During each cycle, water is admitted to a boiler tank for a fixed interval of time to form a batch in the tank. The batch of water in the tank is then vigorously boiled while venting the tank through a pipe to the atmosphere. The vigorous boiling is terminated when the temperature within the vent pipe reaches the boiling point of pure water. Upon termination of the vigorous boiling phase, a gentle boiling phase is initiated, the vent pipe is closed, and vapor in the tank is admitted to a condenser. The condenser condenses the vapor to obtain distilled water which is collected in a collection device. The gentle boiling phase continues until the level of water in the tank recedes to the level of a heater in the tank.

Abstract: A unit for the treatment of electrophoretic strips mounted on a frame comprises at least one pair of basins (10a, 10b) and a feed, forced circulation and emptying circuit comprising as many tanks (23, 24) as there are different treatment liquids, a single tank (25) containing a rinsing liquid, a single tank (26) for discharging the treatment liquids and at least one pair of pumps (29, 30).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of cleaning a pipe system (3) in baths, preferably bath tubs, through which pipe system water and/or air is led into the bathwater (6) of the bath (1) to produce water currents and/or water/air currents (4) and/or air bubbles (5) therein. For effective cleaning, the pipe system (3) is flushed with pure water (31) after a bath has been taken before impurities in said pipe system have/had time to dry. A suitable apparatus for carrying out said method comprises a sensor (49) which is adapted to sense when bathing in the bath (1) has been concluded and to deliver when the bathing has been concluded a signal to a time lag relay (34) which is adapted to open a valve (33) for supply of flushing water (31) to a flushing device (30) for flushing of the pipe system (3) a certain time after the time lag relay (34) has received said signal from the sensor (49).