Abstract: A fluid composition dispensing system employs a pair of bulk supplies of fluid components which communicate through air-actuated pumps to measurement and dispensing reservoirs. Each of the reservoirs has an associated float switch which is operative to inhibit operation of the associated pump when the reservoir is filled with a desired quantity of fluid component. A dispensing valve assembly is interposed between the two reservoirs to allow for dispensing from the reservoir at predetermined dispensing rates. A mechanical valve assembly has a linkage which is configured to allow the slower flowing fluid to pass through a larger valve orifice such that the dispensing rates of the two fluids are the same.

Abstract: A developer flow check system is capable of directly determining the actual amount of developer from a nozzle. The system includes: a pressure regulator; a reservoir connected to the pressure regulator; a valve connected to the reservoir; a developer nozzle connected to the valve; and a post nozzle developer flow check section connected to the developer nozzle, for adjusting the quantity of the developer actually injected to an wafer to conform to a preset quantity is developer. The post nozzle developer flow check section includes: a developer flow check tube arranged for receiving the developer delivered from said developer nozzle. A sensor detects movement of said display a developer flow controller connected to said sensor determines a time interval which developer flows through the tube and the quantity of developer is calculated thereby. a developer flow check system controller receiving a control signal from the developer flow controller, to control the actual developer flow.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for drawing and measuring an amount of liquid agrichemical and dispensing the measured amount of agrichemical for mixture with water and eventual application onto a field. The agrichemical is drawn into a measuring vessel by suction pressure, created in one embodiment by an air compressor and valving system, and in another embodiment by a valve-pump in conjunction with a 3-way valve. The agrichemical is then dispensed from the measuring vessel either by positive pressure created by the same air compressor/valving system, or by suction pressure created by valve-pump/3-way valve. The valve-pump provides both a mixing chamber for the agrichemical and water prior to tank storage for eventual application, and controllable suction pressure for drawing the agrichemical out of the measuring vessel for mixing. The valve-pump is also self-cleaning thereby reducing the possibility of cross-contamination.

Abstract: A cleaning solution dispenser installed in a water tank 2 includes a container 3 and a tubular flow regulator 4. The container receives cleaning solution therein and is formed with a downwardly opening outlet 31. The flow regulator extends into the outlet of the container and is divided by a partition plate 40 into upper and lower chambers 41, 42. The upper chamber has a closed top end and a surrounding wall formed with at least one radial port 43 opening adjacent to the partition plate. The flow regulator further has first and second tubes 44, 45 which extend upwardly from the partition plate into the upper chamber. The second tube is shorter than the first tube and has a top end which is located at a level higher than that of the port opening. The first and second tubes communicate the upper chamber with the lower chamber. The lower chamber has an open bottom end.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for drawing and measuring an amount of liquid agrichemical and dispensing the measured amount of agrichemical for mixture with water and eventual application onto a field. The agrichemical is drawn into a measuring vessel by suction pressure, created in one embodiment by an air compressor and valving system, and in another embodiment by a valve-pump in conjunction with a 3-way valve. The agrichemical is then dispensed from the measuring vessel either by positive pressure created by the same air compressor/valving system, or by suction pressure created by valve-pump/3-way valve. The valve-pump provides both a mixing chamber for the agrichemical and water prior to tank storage for eventual application, and controllable suction pressure for drawing the agrichemical out of the measuring vessel for mixing. The valve-pump is also self-cleaning thereby reducing the possibility of cross-contamination.

Abstract: A method of converting an inverted bottle water dispensing system for use with an automatic bottle refill mechanism. The inverted bottle water dispensing system to which the method relates an open topped cooling reservoir with a mounting adaptor for receiving an inverted bottle water disposed on top of the reservoir. The automatic bottle refill mechanism to which the method relates has a conduit connected to the inverted water bottle and connected to a float valve positioned within the inverted water bottle. The conduit is connected to a pressurized water service so that a continuous replenishing supply of water is supplied as permitted by the float valve. The method includes the step of permanently securing across the open top of the cooling reservoir a rigid closure cap to which a bottom of the mounting adaptor has been permanently secured. The rigid closure cap has a single access opening in liquid communication with the bottom of the mounting adaptor.

Abstract: A liquid chemical measuring system including an elongate translucent or transparent polymeric tank having an upper portion with graduations indicating the amount of liquid required to fill the tank to each of the graduations when said tank is vertically disposed, and a generally funnel shaped portion adjacent its lower end. The tank has a liquid passage opening through its lower end, and an air passage through a transverse wall at its upper end. A frame supports the tank with its upper end uppermost, a liquid valve is attached to the tank across its liquid passage opening, and an air pump is coupled to the air passage opening of the tank by a valve operated by a single lever so that it can alternatively cause vacuum or pressure in the tank, thereby allowing liquid to be drawn into the tank to measure it using the graduations and then to be forced out of the tank.

Abstract: A bottom pouring pot comprising a cartridge for accommodating liquid, and a separate mounting base for detachably mounting the cartridge thereto, wherein an inner container having an opening at a lower end thereof is placed in the cartridge, the opening being closed with a detachable plug body, a discharge port for discharging the liquid being formed in the plug body and is closed with first opening means for opening the discharge port when the cartridge is mounted on the base, and a flow passage is formed in the base which communicates with the discharge port when the cartridge is mounted on the base so as to enable the liquid to be poured out, whereby a bottom pouring pot is formed having an insulated inner container with only one opening and which has excellent handling characteristics and can be readily manufacted at a reduced cost.

Abstract: The present invention uses an adaptation of a float valve installed within the barrel of the eye dropper at the time of manufacture. This prevents the operator of the eye dropper from intaking more than the predetermined amount of liquid into the barrel of the eye dropper. Once the eye dropper is filled, the operator expels the entire amount of liquid taken into the eye dropper, which is the predetermined amount.

Abstract: A water transport system replaces the inverted water bottle on a conventional bottled water cooler of the type with a refrigerated, open top water reservoir. The system automatically transfers water from an upright water bottle below the reservoir into the reservoir whenever water in in the reservoir falls below a predetermined level. A water pipe carries water from the bottle, through a sealed closure in the bottle neck and up into the reservoir whenever air pressure in the bottle is elevated. An air pump in a housing atop the reservoir generates air pressure in an air tube passing through the closure and into the bottle. A water level sensor reduces air pressure in the system when the water in the reservoir reaches a predetermined level to thereby automatically control refilling of the reservoir.

Abstract: A water purification device mounted within a housing adapted to be positioned on an existing water cooler/dispenser has a valve control member extending from the base of the housing and is positionable within the water reservoir of the dispenser to control the release of purified water from the device to the reservoir. The device includes a feedwater tank into which supply water is fed and which feeds water to a water level control tank which communicates with the bottom of a boiler which is maintained at the same level as the water in the control tank. The control tank includes a control valve which maintains the water in it to a predetermined level above the level of the heating element in the boiler. The boiler is connected to condenser coils for condensing vaporized water from the boiler to form distilled water which is directed through a carbon filter to a distillate storage tank where the purified water is stored until required by the water cooler/dispenser.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for drawing and measuring an amount of liquid agrichemical and dispensing the measured amount of agrichemical for mixture with water and eventual application onto a field. The agrichemical is drawn into a measuring vessel by suction pressure, created in one embodiment by an air compressor and valving system, and in another embodiment by a valve-pump in conjunction with a 3-way valve. The agrichemical is then dispensed from the measuring vessel either by positive pressure created by the same air compressor/valving system, or by suction pressure created by valve-pump/3-way valve. The valve-pump provides both a mixing chamber for the agrichemical and water prior to tank storage for eventual application, and controllable suction pressure for drawing the agrichemical out of the measuring vessel for mixing. The valve-pump is also self-cleaning thereby reducing the possibility of cross-contamination.

Abstract: A liquid dispenser system for dispensing a cleaning liquid to a remote bathroom fixture includes a bathroom wall having a storage unit mounted in the wall and having an access cover or door covering the storage area and a liquid storage container located therein. An electric pump is located in the wall storage unit and is operatively connected to the liquid container for pumping the cleaning liquid through a conduit connected from the pump to a bathroom fixture for delivering a cleaning liquid to the fixture. A pump actuating switch is electrically connected to the pump and to a timer and to the end of the conduit for actuating the pump remotely to thereby pump liquid from the liquid storage container to the remote fixture. A method is provided which includes attaching a wall storage unit in a bathroom wall and placing a storage container therein behind an access cover. The liquid storage container is connected to an electric pump located in the wall storage area for pumping the liquid from the container.

Abstract: The present invention represents an improvement in state of the art apparatus for injecting controlled amounts of a soil amendment, including fertilizers, into an irrigation system, by first effecting the batch mixing of a selected soil amendment, in the form of a particulate material in a fluid medium, such that the particulate material is either dissolved or suspended in the fluid medium to form a slurry, continuously locating an area within the mixing tank in which the admixture displays the greatest, or optimum homogeneity, and continuously withdrawing metered amounts of the resultant slurry for injection into an irrigation system over the entire period of the irrigation cycle.

Abstract: An apparatus for converting a conventional bottle-water cooler into a self-filling bottles water cooler is provided. The apparatus includes a water bottle, a water inlet system, a venting system and a seal. In one embodiment, the seal is flat with a central opening which is stretched over the neck of the bottle and released, which allows the disk to assume a cylindrical configuration in engagement with the outer surface of the neck. The neck with the seal is then fimly pressed inside the water tank. In another embodiment, the seal includes rounded ridges disposed concentrically on one side of the seal with the ridges being successively wider and thicker towards the outermost edge of the seal.

Abstract: A hot water dispensing device which includes a flexible tube or a bellows which can be depressed by a solenoid such that hot water can pass into the tube or bellows and out an outlet when the solenoid is energized. When the solenoid is de-energized, the upper portion of the tube or bellows forms a seal to prevent water overflowing if the machine is moved or is jolted. By varying the time of energization of the solenoid, the quantity of water can be adjusted. Another modification has a pivoted tube controlled by a solenoid.

Abstract: A noncarbonated beverage dispensing machine in combination with pressurized water and syrup supplies; the machine includes a beverage tank from which beverage is dispensed, a mixing head including normally closed electrically operated water and syrup valves connected with the water and syrup supplies and operable to conduct metered volumes of water and syrup into the beverage tank and a liquid level switching device in the beverage tank operating to simultaneously cause the valves to open when the liquid in the tank is at a predetermined low level and to cause the valves to close when the liquid level in the tank is at a predetermined high level. The water supply delivers a constant supply of water at a desired pressure to the water valve.

Abstract: A bottled water station is provided for selective dispensing of uncarbonated and carbonated water. The station includes an upper water reservoir adapted to receive water from an inverted supply bottle. The upper reservoir is mounted in stacked relation on a lower carbonator reservoir, and uncarbonated water is dispensed from the upper reservoir via a first dispense conduit extending through the carbonator reservoir and a multiported fitting thereon to a first faucet valve. A portion of the uncarbonated water is diverted from the first dispense conduit and is supplied with a carbonating gas through the multiported fitting to the carbonator reservoir to form carbonated water. The carbonated water is dispensed in turn through a second dispense conduit connected between the multiported fitting and a second faucet valve. A chiller, coil of a suitable refrigeration system is wrapped about the upper and lower reservoir for simultaneous chilling of the water contained therein.

Abstract: Apparatus for mixing beverage components, in particular sirup and water, having two separate reception chambers which receive the components and are each provided with an inlet and an outlet. To improve the mixing results in such an apparatus in a constructionally simple way, the inflow of a first component, in particular water, to a first reception chamber is first passed through a second reception chamber filled with a second component, in particular sirup, and then through a transition portion arranged between the first and second reception chambers, the transition portion having a reduced cross-sectional area in comparison with the cross-sectional area of the first reception chamber, before it flows into the first chamber. The component within the second reception chamber is the entrained in the component flowing into the first reception chamber. Thereafter the mixture of the components is discharged from the first and second reception chambers by flowing it out of the second reception chamber.

Abstract: A water purification device mounted within a housing adapted to be positioned on an existing water cooler/dispenser has a valve control member extending from the base of the housing and is positionable within the water reservoir of the dispenser to control the release of purified water from the device to the reservoir. The device includes a feedwater tank into which supply water is fed, either automatically, or manually. The feedwater tank, when the water is above a minimal level, feeds water to an anti-backflow control housing which communicates the water from the feedwater tank to the bottom of a boiler which is maintained at the same level as the water in the feedwater tank without the use of a float within the boiler. The anti-backflow housing includes a check valve in the form of a ball that prevents the backflow of heated water from the boiler into the feedwater tank.

Abstract: A continuous gravimetric metering apparatus for pourable material including a predetermined measuring path supplied with pourable material, the predetermined measuring path being provided with a porous wall for continuously supplying a finely distributed air stream thereto. The apparatus is particularly adapted for use in a continuously operating conveying system for pourable material having lower flowability in large quantities.

Abstract: A self-contained, portable, closed, chemical transfer system is described. The system includes a support frame, a container, a vacuum pump, a leveling means for the container, a valved inlet line, and a valved outlet line. The leveling means allows for use of the portable, self-contained system on various surface levels. The vacuum pump can provide solely a vacuum to the container of the system or can be structured to also provide pressure to the container of the system to facilitate emptying of the container. When a pressure means is not provided, gravity is utilized to facilitate emptying of the container. The vacuum pump of the invention which provides alternatively for both vacuum and pressure includes a single operating lever operatively connected to two 3-way valves which are used in conjunction with a motor, air pump, and appropriate air lines. The system is operated through the use of a minimal number of valves which provides for simple construction and operation.

Abstract: A liquid actuated switch device including a case that defines an accumulator chamber with upper and lower portions and liquid inlet and outlet openings communicating with the lower portion of the chamber and connected with upstream and downstream sections of flow line delivery, a flow passage through which liquid is forcibly driven, a normally open liquid level actuated switch in the upper portion of the chamber and actuated to close by liquid in the chamber when the level of the liquid in the chamber rises to an actuating level where the pressure on the liquid and on the gases in the upper portion of the chamber are in subsequent equilibrium. The device includes a vent duct extruding between the upper portion of the chamber and the flow passage downstream of the chamber to balance the pressure on the gas in the chamber with the pressure on the liquid downstream thereof.

Abstract: The present invention is a beverage dispenser having a low overall vertical height profile. The dispenser includes a water bath tank. The tank volume is enclosed along a top surface thereof by a support plate. A condenser extends horizontally with and adjacent to a top surface of the support plate. A motor is secured to the top plate and includes a shaft with a blade on one end thereof for agitating the water held within the water bath, and includes a condenser cooling fan on the opposite end of the shaft thereof for cooling the condenser. An evaporator is located in the tank horizontally with and closely adjacent to the tank bottom surface. An elongate carbonator extends lengthwise in a substantially horizontal manner in the tank and is located therein between the support plate and the evaporator. In one embodiment, the level of water within the carbonator is regulated by the buoyancy level of the carbonator in the tank.

Abstract: The object of the invention is a paint toning machine comprising at least one paste container (4, 5) for keeping toning paste and means (1, 2) attached to the paste container for dispensing the paste. To avoid drying of the toning paste in the paste container the paste container is essentially gas-tight and airless and comprises an intermediate container (4) of elastic material, such as plastic, and a replaceable refill container (5) likewise of elastic material, such as plastic, the refill container being connected to the intermediate container in such a way that the interiors of the containers are in contact with each other, both parts of the paste container being compressible and the volume of the interior of the paste container essentially corresponding to the amount of paste in the container at any given time.

Abstract: A water heater (10) has a pressure-transfer module (20) interposed between an external pressurized-water circuit and the water inside the water-heater vessel (12) so that the water is at atmospheric pressure and can thus have a free upper surface. A shut-off valve in the inlet (14) to the pressure-transfer module (20) is controlled in accordance with the water level as detected by a float (74). If the water level falls below a predetermined minimum or exceeds a predetermined maximum, the shut-off valve closes so as to prevent further flow into the water heater (10) from the upstream side of the exterior circuit.

Abstract: A dispenser for cryogenic liquid comprising a vacuum insulated vessel (2) which is provided with a dispenser tube (10). The dispenser tube (10) is heated in use by an electric heater (11). Sufficient heat is supplied to achieve film boiling on the inner surface of the dispenser tube (10). Flow of cryogenic liquid from the vacuum insulated vessel (2) into the dispenser tube (10) is controlled by a tapered valve member (14) which is biased downwardly by a spring (15) and which is connected to a permanent magnet (16) disposed in a coil (17). The tapered valve member (14) can be driven upwardly or downwardly according to the sense in which a direct current is applied to the coil (17). A gas relief tube (18) is provided to vent gas from the dispenser tube (10) intermediate the tapered valve member (14) and the outlet of the dispenser tube (10). The gas relief tube (18) conveys gas to the space above the cryogenic liquid, for example liquid nitrogen, in the vacuum insulated vessel (2).

Abstract: For separating cooled and uncooled water in a refrigerated bottled drinking water cooler well, a floating receiving reservoir floats in the well and has an upper edge resting on or above a surface of water in the well, the reservoir having an open top surface and being supplied by uncooled water from a mouth of a drinking water bottle turned upside down and submerged in the reservoir. A conduit communicates the reservoir with a first water outlet as the floating reservoir moves up and down in the well. Drawing water from the first outlet causes a level of uncooled water in the reservoir to be lowered until air enters the mouth and water from the bottle is emitted into the receiving reservoir. Drawing water from a second outlet connected to the well causes a level of the surface of water in the well and thus of the uncooled water in the floating reservoir to drop until air enters the mouth and water overfills the receiving reservoir pouring over the upper edge into the well.

Abstract: A self-filling bottled-water cooler dispenses pure water from a transparent water bottle mounted on the top of a free-standing cabinet body. The cooler attaches to a tap-water or other continuous water source and provides a continuous supply of pure water without need to change the water bottle. In an alternative embodiment, an apparatus for converting a conventional bottled-water cooler into a self-filling bottled-water cooler is provided. The apparatus includes a water bottle which replaces the interchangeable water bottle of the conventional bottled-water cooler. Water from a tap water or other source is purified in a reverse osmosis, carbon block or other water purifier and is routed to the water bottle of the apparatus. An inlet valve mounted on the lower portion of the water bottle and connected to a float mechanism within the water bottle regulates the flow of purified water into the water bottle.

Abstract: An inverted water bottle, extending upwardly from a water dispenser, refills a container within the water dispenser, which container provides a source of water to a tap. Water from a source periodically refills both the water bottle and the container in response to upper and lower head pressure thresholds. A water processing system may be housed within the water dispenser to purify the water inflowing from the source of water.

Abstract: A valve for controlling the level of fluids in basins, such as stands for cut trees, aquariums, or hydroponic plant basins. The valve 6 includes a rigid fluid conduit 26 passing through the wall of a float chamber 16, in order to transmit fluid into a flexible tubing 28 connected to the portion of the rigid fluid conduit 26 inside the float chamber 16. In the valve's open position, the flexible tubing 28 is maintained in a partially bent postion, riding on the upper end of a float 30 contained within the float chamber 16. As the fluid enters the float chamber 16, and exits into basin 8, the fluid level rises causing the float 30 to rise in float chamber 16. The rising float further bends the flexible tubing 28, causing it to collapse and block the flow of fluid therethrough. As the fluid in basin 8 falls, the flexible tubing 28 returns to its original position, and the flow of fluid through the valve resumes.

Abstract: A dental washer includes a heating vessel for heating a washing liquid by an electrical heater to generate superheated steam, so electromagnetic pump on a water supply pipe communicating with the heating vessel and a water source, an electromagnetic valve in a steam pipe having at its one end a nozzle for outputting steam and communicating with the nozzle and a superheated steam-filling region of the heating vessel and a level detector for detecting the level of the washing liquid in the heating vessel to turn the electrical heater on when the level reaches the preset upper limit and turn it off when the level reaches the preset lower limit.

Abstract: A filter apparatus is used to filter tap water and to automatically fill two containers. This apparatus includes a filter subassembly, a housing subassembly, a water control subassembly, and first and second containers. The water control subassembly includes a center see-saw chute receiving filtered water from a supply line from the filter subassembly, and includes a left pivoted chute and a right pivoted chute, each receiving a selectively directed water stream from the center chute. Each pivoted chute has a float at one end thereof, in contact with the water in its respective container when about full. An upward force from its container water pivots each left and right chute, when the container is about full, causing the respective water stream to be redirected in the opposite direction along its chute to a reservoir and drain line.

Abstract: A reservoir outlet control device for controlling fluid flow from a reservoir. The device is particularly suitable for controlling fluid outflow from a blood collecting and blood delivery reservoir.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an apparatus and method for controlling the overflow of molten material from a receptacle for the purpose of achieving more uniform casting of the molten material. The apparatus and method utilize a force detector able to detect the change in the buoyant force exerted on a submersible body lowered into a molten material. A differentiating means, a control means, and a drive means are responsive to the force detector, whereby a constant rate of change of buoyant force is translated into a uniform rate of overflow of molten material delivered to a heat extracting substrate for solidification.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus, especially intended for particulate pet food, comprising a hopper having a metering chamber thereunder. The metering chamber has a tumbler rotatable by a motor and controlled by a control means. The tumbler has a longitudinal cavity to receive and dispense pet food and is journalled to the metering chamber with a flap bearing resiliently on it. The tumbler has a plurality of spaced apart fins radiating from it to prevent accumulation of dust and to inhibit jamming of the mechanism. The tumbler is also easily removable for cleaning. Also disclosed are food and water containers.

Abstract: A dispenser for housing large (for example, 5-gallon) bottled drinking water containers having a generally narrow mouth (for example, 1-2 inches in diameter) provides a cabinet having a lower end portion adapted to receive the bottle in an upright fashion so that the flat base of the bottle sits upon the lower floor portion of the cabinet and the upper open-mouth portion extends upwardly. A pump suctions water from the bottle and transmits it to a first reservoir positioned at the uppermost portion of the cabinet. The first reservoir is an ambient temperature reservoir for containing ambient temperature water such as is typically used in cooking or the like. A second cold water reservoir is contained generally below the first reservoir and receives flow therefrom via a duct which extends through the central portion of the second reservoir. The duct transmits ambient water to the second reservoir and beyond to a spigot which is affixed to the external cabinet portion of the apparatus.

Abstract: In a liquid waste collection and disposal apparatus, liquid waste gravity flows to a tank through a check valve equipped inlet line. A vertical guide float within the tank controls the liquid level therein. A two-way tank venting solenoid operated valve supplies gas, under pressure, to the tank for evacuating liquid therein. An electrical circuit connects a source of electrical energy with liquid upper and lower limit magnetic switches disposed in the path of travel of the float for energizing the actuator of the solenoid valve to evacuate the fluid therein through a check valve equipped discharge line in response to the float closing the upper limit switch. When the float reaches the limit of its downward movement, the normally closed lower magnetic switch is opened to interrupt gas pressure to the tank.

Abstract: The momentary position, between open and closed, of a bottom door panel controlling release of fluid from an airborne container containing the fluid is governed by both the height of the fluid in the container and the instantaneous position of the door panel.

Abstract: A self-filling bottled-water cooler dispenses pure water from a transparent water bottle mounted on the top of a free-standing cabinet body. The cooler attaches to a tap-water or other continuous water source and provides a continuous supply of pure water without need to change the water bottle The free-standing cabinet body includes a water tank located within the upper portion of the cabinet body and at least one tap for dispensing water from the water tank. The water bottle is securely attached on the top of the cabinet body to the water tank such that water freely flows between the bottle and the tank. Water from the tap water or other source is purified in a reverse osmosis, carbon block or other water purifier and is routed to the water tank. An inlet valve connected to a float mechanism within the water bottle regulates the flow of purified water into the water tank. The fload mechanism closes the inlet valve only when the purified water in the water bottle is at or above a desired full level.

Abstract: A cup type liquid dispensing machine in which the liquid-supplying system is a closed airtight circuit in the form of bag-in-box packages. The packages are connected to a dispensing pump which supplies the liquid to a dispensed and supported cup. Waste liquids from the machine are collected by various lines which are coupled to a flexible bag. A movable member engages the bag and activates a control switch to stop the machine as the bag becomes full.

Abstract: The present invention provides a water bottle refill system comprising a main frame bottle water stand having a water outlet; a water bottle adapted to invertedly mate with the stand and which is provided with an air vent and a purified water inlet at its top portion, flow of water through which is automatically regulated by virtue of a float valve mechanism mounted therein; and an "O" shaped sealing member adapted to seal the water bottle to the stand.

Abstract: A liquid level control in a refrigeration system operates a solenoid valve to maintain the level of liquid refrigerant in a vessel within a range defined by predetermined lower and upper liquid levels, sounds an alarm if the upper level is exceeded and stops a pump if the lower level is violated. The control comprises a float assembly and a switching assembly. The float assembly comprises a float chamber connected to the vessel, a float ball therein, a vertically extending float rod connected to the float ball and movable along a vertical path, and a pair of spaced apart stop members on the float rod disposed within the switching assembly. The switching assembly comprises a switch actuator permanent magnet, having magnet poles at opposite ends, slidably mounted on the float rod between the stop members and movable thereby along the said path.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for collecting in seal containers the gasoline that leaks or spills from service station dispensers or submersible pumps help to reduce the pollution associated with such equipment. The apparatus and the method also provide for returning the collected gasoline to the storage tanks via existing vapor recovery systems.

Abstract: A dishwashing apparatus designed in such a manner as to have one incoming waterline and self cleaning filters. Solid additive sources are situated in containers mounted on top of the dishwashing apparatus and fed with water by means of a pump. A flip-top solid detergent dispenser comprising a base having a funnel-shaped interior, a nozzle positioned within the interior of the base, and a detergent container support connected by a hinge to the base can be mounted on the dishwashing apparatus. The detergent container support is designed to hold only a particular shaped detergent container and to prevent dripping of detergent solution upon the user. A circular metallic ring having a plurality of holes is situated around the funnel-shaped interior of the base. Water is flushed through the holes of the circular metallic ring at designated times to purge one of the filters of air and to insure that the detergent is rinsed down through the funnel-shaped interior of the base.

Abstract: A rinse-injection box has, between a connection for supplying water from a drinking-water line and an inlet into the rinse-injection box, a valve that opens automatically when water flows in. An opening to the atmosphere prevents water from flowing out of the full box into a drinking-water line that communicates with the connection because the opening prevents the establishment of a vacuum. When the supply of water is discontinued, the valve body will close off the inlet, allowing the vacuum needed for the next rinsing process to become established inside the box. Thus, no non-potable water can be suctioned back into the drinking-water line even when the rinse-injection box is completely full.

Abstract: A closure assembly for conveying air to the interior of an inverted water bottle and for conveying water from the interior of an inverted water bottle having a downwardly pointing spout including a closure connectable to the spout of a water bottle, the closure having an opening therein through which water may flow from the inverted water bottle, a hollow cylinder having an open first end and a partially closed second end, the first end being connected to the closure, the second end being located in the interior of the water bottle and having an air inlet for conveying air from the interior of the hollow cylinder to the interior of the water bottle, the second end having a water inlet for conveying water from the interior of the inverted water bottle to the interior of the cylinder the closure having an opening therein in alignment with first end of the hollow cylinder, and a float slidably received in the cylinder for sealing the water inlet.

Abstract: Purified water is fed into an elevated sealed first tank by means of a float valve assembly. The first tank is vented by a bacteria microscreen which is located above the level of a three-way spigot manifold. A second insulated, sealed hot water tank and a third insulated, sealed cold water tank, both positioned below and fed by the first tank, are vented into the first tank. The second tank is heated by a controlled heat strip or thermoelectric module. The second tank is positioned above and feeds into the third tank, which is cooled by a thermoelectric module. Each of the three tanks is connected by a respective tube into a three-way spigot manifold. An ergonomically designed cabinet in which the three tanks are housed includes a three button spigot control assembly located in a recess approximately 36 inches above the floor. The spigot manifold is positioned in a front panel recess beneath the button recess adjacent to a paper cup dispenser.

Abstract: A dispensing valve provided in a chemical dispenser for dispensing predetermined amounts of chemical into a lavatory cistern is disclosed. The dispensing valve seals an opening in and dispenses liquid from the dispenser, the valve having a chamber movable through the opening between a filling position in which the chamber is fillable with chemical from the dispenser and a discharge position in which chemical held in the chamber may be discharged, the chamber being provided with surfaces sealing the opening in both said positions and further having an adjustable filling volume.

Abstract: A mixture control system for mixing a bactericidal chemical and water in a reservoir in batches. Flow of the water into the reservoir is initiated by a float actuated switch and the duration of the flow is controlled. While the flow is occurring, a dispenser dispenses chemical into the reservoir according to a preset dispensing cycle which is initiated when the water flow is initiated and also terminates therewith.