Abstract: A device for monitoring evaporation capacity of a water surface evaporator in a process includes a water surface evaporator and a rain collector, the rain collector and the water surface evaporator having a same size of orifice area, height, and contour profile of a monitoring device. One side of the water surface evaporator is connected with a first measuring well through a pipeline, and another side of the water surface evaporator is connected with a first electromagnetic flowmeter, a water supplementing electromagnetic valve and an overflow electromagnetic valve through a water pipe. The water supplementing electromagnetic valve is connected with a water supplementing barrel through a water supplementing pipe. A water collecting barrel is installed below the special rain collector. A second magnetostrictive water level meter, a starting drainage switch and a stopping drainage switch are installed in the second measuring well.

Abstract: A swimming pool leveling system includes a bracket extending from a first end to a second end, the bracket having openings; a float valve having a body with a float positioned within an interior of the body, the float valve engaged with the bracket via an adjustment device; a pressure reducing valve engaged with the body and to receive a water source; and a base having a base body with an enclosed interior accessible via an opening, the enclosed interior configured to receive a weight, the base engaging with the bracket via one or more securement devices; the base is to rest on a surface such that the bracket extends the float valve into a pool; and the float valve to allow filling of the pool to a desired height.

Abstract: Self-closing aquarium valves to consistently acclimate fish to temperature and pH of a new tank with minimal monitoring are described. The self-closing aquarium valve includes a frame, an automatic stopper hingedly connected to the frame that closes automatically, and a hose that provides fluid communication from the new tank to a holding tank, and an adjustable flow control. The self-closing aquarium valve provides consistent acclimation of a fish from the holding tank to a new tank through the adjustable flow control with minimal monitoring with the automatic stopper.

Abstract: A valve assembly for regulating water level in a swimming pool includes a first butterfly valve in a pool drain line of the pool and a second butterfly valve in a fresh water line. The drain line and the fresh water line supply water to a pit remote from the pool. A return water line directs water from the pit to the pool. A float in the pit is operatively connected to both butterfly valves via first and second pivotal arms which are rotated by a sliding frame when the buoyant float rises and falls, so as to close and open the butterfly valves, and thereby maintain a desired water depth or level in the pit, and thereby a more consistent water level in the pool.

Abstract: The present invention has an object to provide a secondary battery manufacturing method and apparatus capable of impregnating a sufficient amount of electrolyte in an electrode laminated body with simplified work effort while reducing working time and a manufacturing cost. The method of manufacturing a secondary battery according to the present invention comprises the steps of: inserting, into an outer container, an electrode laminated body in which a positive electrode and a negative electrode are laminated with a separator interposed therebetween; sealing an outer peripheral portion of the outer container except for a part thereof before or after the electrode laminated body is inserted; and injecting electrolyte (5) into the outer container having the electrode laminated body inserted therein, from non-sealed part as an injection port (6a).

Abstract: A device for controlling the filling of a cistern in a main reservoir of a toilet flushing system includes a water inlet controlled by a valve. The closing of the valve is controlled by a float that is movable from a high position to a low position. The float is contained in a float housing in the high position. The float housing connects to the main reservoir by at least one siphon having two tubes: a suction tube linked to the float housing; and a discharge tube being linked to the main reservoir and opening into an auxiliary reservoir. There is a control mechanism provided with a mechanism for priming the siphon, wherein shifts between an initial position and an actuated position of the control mechanism result in overpressure or underpressure at the siphon so as to control draining of the float housing.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically filling water in an above-ground pool. The apparatus includes an open-sided enclosure, an inlet pipe, an intermediate pipe, a water-level control valve, and pool mounting mechanism. The open-sided enclosure houses and supports the constituents of the apparatus. The inlet pipe connects to an external water supply and traverses normal and into a top wall of the open-sided enclosure. The intermediate pipe is telescopically engaged into the inlet pipe and fixed to the water-level control valve. This puts the inlet pipe and the water-level control valve in fluid communication. The pool mounting mechanism is mechanically integrated into the open-sided enclosure and attaches the apparatus to a frame of the pool. The water-level control valve manages water being pumped into the pool in order to maintain a constant water level. An actuatable lifter is used to raise or lower the water-level control valve within the open-sided enclosure.

Abstract: A fuel system includes a fuel tank that has a wall with an opening. A fuel float valve includes a float and a seal plate that are arranged on opposing ends of a beam. A support carries a connection of the beam. The beam is configured to translate along the support at the connection in response to a changing fuel level. The fuel float valve is movable between first and second positions in which the seal plate is respectively unsealed and sealed relative to the opening. The seal plate is movable relative to the opening in the second position.

Abstract: A leak detection system for the rapid and accurate detection of the mean surface level change of a body of liquid is provided. The system is capable of sensing mean surface level changes under static or turbulent surface conditions. In one embodiment, the system includes a rigid walled sensor pod with at least one inner pod cavity that is so positioned to receive liquid from a body of liquid such that dynamic equilibrium is possible and maintained between the mean surface level of the body of liquid and the amount of liquid in the inner cavity. The system further includes a sensor assembly having a stiction free float operating in conjunction with a strain gauge, and microprocessors applying algorithms to process, display, and report the sensor data in accordance with the needs of the end user or to initiate actions for automated control functions.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically maintaining the water level of a body of water, such as a pool, is described herein. The present invention comprises a float body contained within a float housing chamber and selectively coupled to a float valve, a ball check valve employed as a means for isolating the pressurized water in the circulation system of a body of water from the water in the float chamber and, after pump operation has ceased, allowing the passage of supply water from the float chamber of the apparatus of the circulation system of a body of water. Flexible conduits or tubing may be provided for ease of installation. Furthermore, the present invention is intended to be conveniently located near the equipment of the circulation system for the body of water.

Abstract: A flush water supply device includes: a water supply valve for switching between a water supplying state and a water stopping state with respect of an inside of the flush water tank; a refill water system on a downstream side of the water supply valve and adapted to allow flush water to be supplied to the flush water tank, and further supplied to a toilet main body as refill water, wherein the refill water system includes a common passage-forming portion which forms a common passage having: an inlet port for allowing inflow of the flush water therethrough; a tank-side outlet port for allowing the flush water to flow out toward the flush water tank therethrough; a main unit-side outlet port for allowing the flush water to flow out toward the toilet main body therethrough; and a vent port; and a vacuum break valve in the common passage-forming portion.

Abstract: A water appliance including a water flow control unit for controlling a water flow. The control unit includes a flow restrictor and a leakage stop in serial fluid communication with the flow restrictor. The leakage stop cuts off the flow when a pressure difference between an inlet and an outlet of the flow restrictor is below a predetermined value.

Abstract: This invention pertains to a sequencer for controlling the distribution of fluid input into a tank to at least two outlets using a plurality of cells connected to actuate a respective floating outlet. Each of the cells has a relatively uniform construction comprising an enclosure and a float. Each enclosure has an inlet arranged at one end to allow fluid therein and offset openings at an opposite end. The enclosure also is configured to accept the float in an inner cavity and arranged so as to allow the fluid therein to cause said float to move within said enclosure. Each cell is further arranged in pairs of a lift cell and a trigger cell adapted to actuate a floating outlet. Each float has an inclined upper surface configured to transfer a ball through the offset openings as the fluid causes the float to rise and fall from each cycle of actuate a respective floating outlet. The sequencer being particularly adapted to a system and method for dosing a septic system having two or more disposal fields.

Abstract: A leak detection system for the rapid and accurate detection of the mean surface level change of a body of liquid is provided. The system is capable of sensing mean surface level changes under static or turbulent surface conditions. In one embodiment, the system includes a rigid walled sensor pod with at least one inner pod cavity that is so positioned to receive liquid from a body of liquid by way of an opening below the surface of the liquid such that dynamic equilibrium is possible and maintained between the mean surface level of the body of liquid and the amount of liquid in the inner cavity. The system further includes a sensor assembly having a stiction free float operating in conjunction with a strain gauge, and microprocessors applying algorithms to process, display, and report the sensor data in accordance with the needs of the end user or to initiate actions for automated control functions.

Abstract: A gas fuel tank with an internal emission fuel system includes a fill-and-vent valve system inside the fuel tank that controls fuel vapor through an exterior carbon canister and prevents spit back. This inventive system prevents exposure of the carbon canister to liquid or fuel. The fill valve assembly has a nylon wedge float that causes the fuel fill nozzle to shut off once the liquid level seals the valve opening. The vent valve assembly also has a nylon wedge float that shuts off vapor once the liquid level seals the valve opening.

Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle tank for liquid fuels, including at least two compartments separated by a baffle, one compartment having a withdrawal line and the baffle having an opening which is close to the bottom and has a valve, and the valve opening independently of a pressure and/or fill level difference in the compartments when the fuel is on the side of the valve facing away from the withdrawal line.

Abstract: A heated humidifier including an autofeed mechanism disposed within a humidifier chamber. The autofeed mechanism includes a housing, a float, a stem, and a sealing body. The housing defines an inlet, an outlet, a first chamber connected to the inlet, and a second chamber connected to the outlet and the first chamber by a channel. The float moves within the second chamber with the stem projecting therefrom and through the channel. The sealing body is within the first chamber and cooperates with the stem. In an open state, the sealing body is displaced from the channel to permit filling of the humidifier chamber. In a closed state, the sealing body seals the channel to prevent liquid flow to the outlet. A location of the sealing body relative to the channel is controlled by the float as a function of a humidifier chamber liquid level.

Abstract: Systems for controlling the level of water with in reservoir, such as in a catch basin for an infinity pool. One embodiment of such a water level control system comprises a system housing having a removable front plate with front plate openings, and a water inlet into the housing. The system further comprises a removable mounting plate within the housing, with the mounting plate removable from the housing when the front plate is removed. A valve is included that is connected to the mounting plate, with water from the reservoir entering the housing through the front plate openings. The valve is operable to allow water to flow into the housing through the water inlet when water within the reservoir water falls below a desired level, and stopping the flow into the housing when the reservoir is at the desired level.

Abstract: A sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device eliminates raw sewage spills by preventing pressure buildup in sewer drains. One or more sewage level sensors may be coupled to an alarm and/or to an automatic water main shut-off valve. The level sensor may detect excess fluid levels in a sewer lateral line. The sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device may include a joggle which is a component of a non-mechanical backflow prevention device. The level sensor may detect fluid levels in the lower portion of the joggle and activate the automatic water main shut-off valve and/or the alarm. The sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device may include at least one two-way, in-line cleanout tube which may extend vertically upwardly from the joggle. The level sensor may be mounted in the vertical cleanout tube. The components may be contained within a seamless polyethylene vault for ease of installation and protection against root intrusion.

Abstract: The backflow valve of the present invention includes a valve housing having a cavity therein with an inlet and an outlet to the valve cavity. A switch is in communication with the valve cavity and is moveable from an off position to an on position in response to liquid filling the valve cavity. A valve is moveable in response to the movement of the switch to the on position. The valve moves to a closed position shutting off the fluid flow through the backflow valve.

Abstract: An automatic liquid shut-off system for a vessel and having a valve in a liquid passageway to control the level of liquid in the vessel so as to prevent an overflow of the liquid. The shut-off system comprises a conduit extending exterior from one wall of the vessel and in liquid communication therewith. A float is disposed in the conduit, and a stem extends from the float co-axially with the conduit, and is affixed to the valve to actuate the valve to a closed position. When the liquid level in the vessel rises to an undesired level, and the liquid in the vessel therefore reaches a level approximately the level of the float, the liquid acting upon the float will actuate the valve to a closed position, thereby shutting off the liquid.

Abstract: An overflow device for a bathtub with an overflow inlet arranged for mounting in a conventional overflow hole of the bathtub and a valve connected between a water supply and a conventional bath tap. A spring can be used to change the valve from its open state to its closed state. A float and trigger lever can detect water that has entered the overflow inlet and trigger the device to change, using the stored spring energy, from a set state in which the valve is open to a triggered state in which the valve is closed. A manually operable resetting element can be operated by a user to replenish the spring with energy and return the device to the set state. The device can be permanently plumbed in and the bulk of the device can be hidden from view outside the bathtub.

Abstract: A device for obtaining a desired pool water level is provided. The device includes a tank in communication with a pool containing a automatic fill device and an overfill drain device in fixed relation to each other. The height of the automatic fill device and overfill drain device can be simultaneously adjusted.

Abstract: Apparatus for automatically shutting off the water supply to a leaking water heater includes a water collecting tray positionable beneath the heater, a valve mechanism attachable to the tray, a float mechanism, and an action arm interactive between the float mechanism and valve mechanism. When water collects in the tray, the float mechanism rises, causing the action arm to trigger the release of a spring-urged component of the valve mechanism to discontinue flow of water to the heater.

Abstract: An overflow system suitable for use in controlling the level of water in, for example, a bathtub (3) is described. The overflow system comprises a conduit attached to the overflow outlet (21) of the bathtub (3) and is arranged so that when the bathtub (3) is overfilled, any excessive flow rate of overflow water through the conduit (19) is detected. The excessive flow rate is detected by arranging for the outlet (25) of the conduit to have a smaller maximum flow rate than the inlet (23) of the conduit so that water backs up within the conduit during an excessive flow rate condition. The backed up water may be detected by a reed switch (31) in conjunction with a magnetic float (27) in order to actuate a solenoid valve (9) to prevent any more water from entering the bathtub (3).

Abstract: A stop valve to terminate flow of liquid there through when the level of the liquid reaches a desired level in a container. The stop valve includes a master diaphragm valve (38) to regulate the flow of liquid through the valve and a pilot diaphragm valve (10) controlling the master valve. The pilot diaphragm valve (10) is subject to the position of a float (37) on the liquid in the container.

Abstract: A liquid level control system utilizes a sensor that is attached to a fixed support relative to a liquid container and transmits radio-frequency signals to a remotely located liquid supply system depending upon fluctuations in the liquid level. In the context of a swimming pool, the sensor housing is attached to a sidewall of the pool, at the desired water level. A sensor circuit located within the housing floats at the liquid level, and as changes occur, movement of the floating sensor results in the transmission of signals to either activate or deactivate a supply valve that supplies replacement water to the pool. A small opening located at an upper portion of the sensor housing cooperates with the floating sensor to dampen the motion of the sensor, providing a more accurate reading of the liquid level.

Abstract: A mechanical fluid controller incorporates a float assembly which is disposed within an auxiliary reservoir. An outlet of the auxiliary reservoir is coupled to a U-shaped conduit, which is in turn coupled to an inlet of a primary reservoir. At least one one-way check valve is disposed in the U-shaped conduit. The auxiliary reservoir also has an inlet that is coupled to a pressurized fluid source. The fluid level in the auxiliary reservoir is initially set approximately equal to the desired upper level of the fluid in the primary reservoir. As the fluid level in the primary reservoir drops, the auxiliary reservoir “sees” this as a drop in the hydrostatic pressure at the outlet side of the U-shaped tube, and fluid automatically flows through the tube into the primary reservoir.

Abstract: A fill valve particularly suited for OEM assembly in gravity operated flush toilets has a modular construction including a main valve body that encloses a pilot operated diaphragm valve operated by a float arm. A hollow riser has a lower end configured for connection to a water supply line. Mating couplers are provided on the bottom of the main valve body and on the upper end of the riser for rigidly securing the riser to the main valve body. The riser has a length that is pre-selected to place the diaphragm valve and float arm a predetermined height within the tank to ensure that the tank is re-filled to a predetermined optimum level.

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 fill valve for a water storage tank includes a riser assembly, a valve housing mounted on an upper end of the riser assembly, and a pilot operated diaphragm valve mounted in the valve housing. A float housing is connected to the valve housing. A combination float and float arm has a first end pivotally connected to a valve housing cap for opening and closing a pilot orifice in the valve housing cap. A second end of the float arm is connected to the float. The float is located in the float housing which has an inlet opening for allowing water to spill into the float housing so that the float rises upwardly and the first end of the float arm fully seals off the pilot orifice. The first end of the float arm has a central arm and a pair of flexible pivot arms that are laterally displaceable for engaging a pair of spaced apart fixed pivot pins on the valve housing cap.

Abstract: A two-chamber fluid control valve for a water softener system is provided. The valve includes a primary chamber having a primary inlet for passage of a primary fluid into the primary chamber and a primary outlet for passage of fluid out of the primary chamber, and a primary valve member disposed for closing the primary outlet. The valve also includes a secondary chamber having a secondary inlet and a secondary outlet fluidly communicating with, and for passing the secondary fluid into, the primary chamber, and a secondary valve member disposed for closing the secondary outlet to prevent the passage of air out of the secondary chamber and into the primary chamber, whereby primary and secondary fluids can be combined in the primary chamber prior to flowing out of the primary outlet of the primary chamber. The valve allows a homogeneous brine/secondary chemical solution to be formed therein and fed to a water softener tank to regenerate and treat the tank and the ion exchange medium therein.

Abstract: A method and device for filling a container with liquid up to a predetermined level. The device includes a cylinder and a piston movable within the cylinder between a rest position and a fill position. A supply of liquid for filling the container is provided to a first end of the piston at alternating pressures to cycle the piston back and forth between the rest and fill positions. Each time the piston reaches its fill position, supply liquid is added to the container. With each cycle the device draws fluid from the container and then attempts to compress the drawn fluid with a second end of the piston. When the fluid drawn is gas, the piston can compress the gas to continue moving to the fill position. When the drawn fluid is liquid, the piston can not compress the liquid and thus is stopped to prevent further filling.

Abstract: An improved automatic fill valve assembly that is readily securable in a level position for installation and that has inlets adapted to accept either a toilet tank fill valve or a float type valve inside of the housing of the fill valve assembly. One improvement comprises a flange that defines at least one anchor point so that the entire assembly can be secured in place to an adjacent structure during installation. This arrangement advantageously holds the automatic fill valve assembly in a level position while workers pour cement around it. Another improvement comprises the provision of inlets that can be connected to a water source and are adapted to mount either a float valve assembly or a toilet tank fill valve inside of the fill valve assembly.

Abstract: A fill valve for a water storage tank includes a riser assembly, a valve housing mounted on an upper end of the riser assembly, and a pilot operated diaphragm valve mounted in the valve housing. A float housing is connected to the valve housing. A float arm of a combination float and float arm has a first end pivotally connected to the valve housing for opening and closing a pilot orifice in the diaphragm valve. A second end of the float arm is connected to the float. The float is located in the float housing which has an inlet opening for allowing water to spill into the float housing so that the float rises upwardly and the first end of the float arm fully seals off the pilot orifice. A snap off cover member extends over, and is releasable latched to, the valve housing and the float housing.

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: An improved apparatus and method for calibrating a float-type vent valve for use in an automobile fuel tank. The valve is provided with a calibration plate in the lower end thereof below the float, the calibration plate defining an axially-adjustable support for the spring which balances the float. The calibration plate includes a force probe aperture through which a force measuring device of known type can be inserted to measure the downward force of the spring-balanced float at a specified distance from closure, preferably a near-closed position. The calibration plate then is adjusted up or down as needed until a position is determined where the spring-balanced float is properly calibrated, and then the calibration plate is permanently secured in place on the valve body so that the valve remains calibrated.

Abstract: In an arrangement for limiting the fill level in a fuel tank having a filler neck with a tank inlet end, a valve flap is pivotally supported in the inlet end such that, in an open position, the valve flap is pivoted toward the fuel flow entering the tank during refueling and is connected, by way of a crank arm and a coupling rod to a float which is disposed in an essentially vertical guide tube. The coupling rod extends through the float and has spaced top and bottom stops providing for lost motion coupling between the float and the coupling rod whose weight is sufficient to keep the valve flap in an open position. When the fuel in the tank lifts the float and, after the float engages the top stop, lifts the coupling rod, closing movement of the valve flap is initiated which is then fully closed by the inflowing fuel utilizing the lost motion distance between the float and the bottom stop of the coupling rod.

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: An overfill prevention device for storage tanks includes an elongate tubular housing having a liquid flow passageway. A normally open main valve and a normally closed vapor retaining bleed valve are associated with the fluid passageway. Closure of the main valve interrupts the primary flow of liquid through the passageway and closure of the bleed valve prevents any further liquid from entering the tank and also prevents the escape of vapors from the tank. Operation of the main valve is controlled in significant part by a valve latch assembly which is carried by the housing and a relatch assembly which is carried by the main valve. The relatch assembly ensures operative engagement of the main valve with the valve latch assembly upon movement of the main valve from the intermediate position to the open position. Operation of the main valve and vapor retaining bleed valve is also controlled indirectly by a plurality of floats which are maintained in a float chamber extending adjacent the liquid passageway.

Abstract: A propane gas delivery system having a large storage tank, a supply conduit to deliver propane gas, a first regulator and a second regulator to reduce pressure, where a secondary containment tank is provided to receive and retain any liquid propane which enters the supply conduit, whether due to overfilling of the main tank or condensation within the supply conduit, and which allows the liquid propane to reconvert into the gas phase. A float valve is provided in the outflow conduit of the secondary tank to prevent flow of liquid propane from the secondary tank in the event the amount of liquid trapped by the secondary tank exceeds its retention capacity.

Abstract: An automatic watering device for use with a stationary water reservoir includes an elongated hollow housing fixedly positioned relative to the reservoir, an elongated pipe having a first end extending into the housing and an opposite second end connected to a source of water, and a water control valve disposed within the housing and connected to the first end of the pipe. The water control valve is adjustably positionable within the housing to correspondingly set a desired water level within the reservoir. The automatic watering device of the present invention is particularly useful for maintaining a supply of water in an animal watering trough since the water control valve is protected from abuse at all times by the protective housing.

Abstract: An adjustable height fill valve assembly for controlling water level in a storage tank, comprises a lower riser assembly comprising concentrically disposed inlet riser and an outer riser housing, each having an upper end and a lower end, the inlet riser and the riser housing connected together at the lower ends, the inlet riser being adapted for mounting in a hole in a flush tank, an upper riser assembly comprising concentrically disposed inner supply tube and an outer tubular valve housing, each having an upper end and a lower end, a main valve seat at the upper end of the inner supply tube, the upper riser assembly telescopically mounted on the lower riser assembly, a latch between the riser housing and the tubular valve housing for latching the upper and the lower riser assemblies in selected extended and retracted positions, the latch disengageable upon rotation of the upper riser assembly in either direction from a central position, a valve housing cap having a bayonet lock connection for quick connect d

Abstract: Apparatus for monitoring and controlling the level of water in a swimming pool includes a vertically elongated vessel partially-buried below the pool water level at a location close to the return line from the filter to the pool inlet, a connector pipe extending from the vessel to the return line for allowing pool water at sub-level pressure to enter the vessel and rise to the pool water level, and a float-controlled valve supported within the vessel and detachably coupled with a pressure water supply and adapted to open as the float drops below a predetermined desired level and allow fresh water to flow into and out of the vessel through the connector pipe and return line and then into the pool for restoring the water in the pool to the predetermined desired level as determined by the position of the float on the water within the vessel being restored to a float position indicative of the predetermined desired level of water in the pool.

Abstract: A retention gate (20) is pivotable about a horizontal pivot shaft (22) mounted near the gate's upper edge and is located behind the overflow sill (14) of a storage drainage opening (12), said retention gate in its closed position being in sealing contact by its lower edge (30) with the overflow sill and furthermore being loaded by a counterweight (42) mounted on the outflow side at a distance from the pivot shaft (22), said counterweight generating the closing force required against the inflow side pressure. The retention gate (20) when in its closed position runs from its lower edge in the downstream direction at an average slope of 20.degree.-60 .degree. relative to the vertical, and the counterweight (42) rigidly affixed to it is guided in such manner that it generates in each gate position a closing torque that approximately matches the torque generated by the amount of drained water required to keep constant the level (24).

Abstract: A fill valve control system for toilet storage tanks, for preventing continued flow from a water supply thereto as a result of a flush valve leak or a tank leak, wherein the fill valve is responsive to a water level in a separate reservoir filled by a full level of storage tank water to shut OFF said fill valve, there being a syphon from the reservoir and responsive to flushing water from the storage tank to empty said reservoir to turn ON said fill valve, there being a flood prevention means that refills the reservoir in the event of a system failure, and there being a restart means to empty the reservoir for initiating normal operation of the system.

Abstract: An overfill prevention device for storage tanks includes an elongate tubular housing having a liquid flow passageway. A normally open main valve and a normally closed vapor retaining bleed valve are associated with the fluid passageway. Closure of the main valve interrupts the primary flow of liquid through the passageway and closure of the bleed valve prevents any further liquid from entering the tank and also prevents the escape of vapors from the tank. Operation of the main valve is controlled in significant part by a valve latch assembly which is carried by the housing and a relatch assembly which is carried by the main valve. The relatch assembly ensures operative engagement of the main valve with the valve latch assembly upon movement of the main valve from the intermediate position to the open position. Operation of the main valve and vapor retaining bleed valve is also controlled indirectly by a plurality of floats which are maintained in a float chamber extending adjacent the liquid passageway.

Abstract: A refilling preventing system for a toilet tank, to prevent refilling of the tank in case of a leak, comprising: a receptacle in the tank in which the buoyant float of the fill valve is placed; a water filling conduit to fill the receptacle after a flush discharge; a plug closing the overflow tube, to cause a momentary vacuum at a flush conduit of the toilet bowl connected to the discharge opening of the toilet tank after a flush discharge and when the stopper is at a closing position; and a siphon conduit, operable by a lever mechanism, which is connected to the discharge opening and to said receptacle, that allows to flush the receptacle, after a flush discharge, by a siphon effect created by the vacuum at the flush conduit of the bowl. In case of a leak emptying the tank, the receptacle will remain filled and the buoyant float will be at its closing position impeding the fill valve to refill of the tank.

Abstract: A valve apparatus is provided for regulating the water level in a swimming pool. The apparatus is mounted in a surge pit remote from the pool. The apparatus includes first and second valves movable between open and closed positions for controlling the introduction of water into the surge pit from the main drain line and from a fresh water supply line, respectively. The first and second valves are operatively interconnected and are moved between their open and closed positions by a float member in the surge pit. As the water level in the pool drops below an ideal level wherein a thin layer of water skims over the lip of the gutter system, less water is provided to the surge pit from the gutter drain line, such that the water level in the pit drops, and causing the float member to drop so as to open the first and second valves to allow more water into the surge pit from the main drain line of the pool and from the fresh water supply line.

Abstract: A system for automatically maintaining a desired water level in a swimming pool, includes a float chamber coupled in fluid communication with a suction tube that is coupled between the pool and a pool filter pump. A float carrying a magnetic element is disposed in the float chamber. A magnetic switch is located in a fixed position outside of the float chamber at a level corresponding to the desired water level. The magnetic switch assumes a first state if the pool water level is equal to or higher than the desired water level and assumes a second state if the pool water level is lower than the desired water level. A solenoid valve is connected between a pressurized water source and an intermediate portion of a return tube returning pumped water to the pool. A circuit is coupled to the valve and the magnetic switch to close the valve when the pump is operating, and open the valve when the pump is not running and the magnetic switch is in the second state.