Overflow Patents (Class 340/616)
  • Patent number: 10935508
    Abstract: A liquid detection device and a liquid detection system are provided for detecting whether there is abnormal liquid on the surface to be detected. The liquid detection system can be used in specific working areas. A first electrode and a second electrode are used. The first electrode and the second electrode are mounted on the housing. A measuring circuit is installed inside the housing. The measuring circuit measures the impedance value between the first electrode and the second electrode, to distinguish whether there is abnormal liquid or not. The liquid detection system includes a plurality of liquid detection devices and a controller. The controller is responsible for collecting the measurement results of the plurality of liquid detection devices and performing corresponding operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Assignee: XIAMEN ECO LIGHTING CO. LTD.
    Inventors: Youhe Zhang, Guanwei Li, Guoming Yan
  • Publication number: 20150090349
    Abstract: A condensate overflow detection device includes a frame, a housing, an affixing device, a surface placement mechanism, a float and an actuator. The housing has a bottom and a plurality of pan engagement side surfaces extending upwardly from the bottom, each of which is disposed at a different angle relative to the bottom surface. The housing defines a vent structure passing therethrough that allows water to pass into the housing. The affixing device clamps a pan engagement side surface to a sidewall of a secondary condensate pan. The surface placement mechanism places one of the pan engagement side surfaces opposite from the affixing device. The float, disposed within the housing, has a first position when no water has entered the housing and a second position when a predetermined level of water has entered the housing. The actuator causes an event when the float is in the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2013
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Applicant: DIVERSITECH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jonathan M. Sada, Keith H. Platt
  • Patent number: 8983667
    Abstract: A system is provided to control fluid flow in a wastewater treatment system through wastewater level manipulation. The wastewater treatment system may include a wastewater treatment plant connected to a plurality of pump stations by a main. Each of the plurality of pump stations may include a wet well with a pump therein. The system may include a central server in communication with a sensor to sense a level of wastewater within the wet well. The pump may be automatically moved to an on position when the level of the wastewater in the wet well is at or above a first level and may be automatically moved to an off position when the level of the wastewater in the respective wet well is at or below a pump cutoff level. The central server may systematically manipulate the first level to selectively set the level of wastewater within the wet well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Data Flow Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas F. Smaidris
  • Patent number: 8910654
    Abstract: A system for preventing flooding caused by blockages in the drain lines of appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and the like included a sealed connection between a washing machine drain line and the sewer line drain, further including a washing machine drain line inlet attachment to a housing, the inlet line connecting to the sewer drain line and to a sealed vent pipe connected to the sewer line drain above the inlet attachment, and including a C-shaped loop in fluid communication with the sewer drain line and containing a float actuated control valve adapted to cut off power to the washing machine upon actuation; a kit containing components of the system and methods of installing the system and kit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Inventor: R. Kevin Dawes
  • Patent number: 8760302
    Abstract: A dewatering system includes a selective calibrating sensor circuit configured to receive sensor readings from an electronic sensor, to determine if the electronic sensor is immersed in water, to allow a user to adjust a pump down time in the field, and to generate a control output signal accordingly. The selective calibrating sensor circuit periodically performs a self-calibration when the electronic sensor is not immersed in water to cancel the effect of potential contaminants deposited on the electronic sensor over its operating life. The selective calibrating sensor circuit inhibits calibration when the electronic sensor is immersed in water. In some applications with multiple electronic sensors, the selective calibrating sensor circuit disconnects from one of the electronic sensors before performing the self-calibration. In certain embodiments, a pump control circuit including the selective calibration sensor circuit can be configured to be mounted with a housing of the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: SEEwater, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald MacDonald
  • Patent number: 8742953
    Abstract: A marine fuel system and method includes receiving a fuel level signal from a fuel level sensor for a marine fuel tank on a marine vessel and discriminating between condition A comprising an increase in the true amount of fuel in the fuel tank above a given level, and condition B comprising a transient increase in the level of fuel in the fuel tank above the given level due to vessel movement, which may include movement due to waves, rough water, people moving on the vessel, and so on, while the vessel is stationary at a dock or filling station and being re-fueled. An alert signal is output in response to condition A and not to condition B.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew W. Snyder, Aaron J. Ward
  • Patent number: 8643496
    Abstract: A contact is provided for a fluid level detection apparatus. The contact includes a contact support spring for rotating in response to a change in fluid level. The contact support spring includes a cantilevered spring arm having a proximal end to be fixed to a holder and a free end, and a contact support which is provided at the free end. First and second contacts are attached to the contact support in first and second positions, respectively, the first position being set at one end opposite to an end at which the second position is set. The joining position of the contact support and cantilevered spring arm is set so that a pressing load applied to the first and second contacts on the contact support by the flexure displacement of the contact support spring falls within a predetermined range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventor: Toshiaki Fukuhara
  • Publication number: 20130314235
    Abstract: This system will alert an occupant of a backup in the sewer or septic system and could be used in a residential or commercial structure. The system is affixed to a sewer waste line and includes a float device and a wireless alert device. When a backup occurs, the float will lift and break the magnetic connection between a magnet connected to the float and a sensor on the wireless alert device. This, in turn, will cause a chime or other alarm device to activate inside the structure, alerting the occupant of a backup. The alarm will enable the occupant to turn off or not use any items which use running water until the problem is resolved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventor: Frank T. Rogers
  • Patent number: 8594851
    Abstract: Reductions in energy consumption and maintenance requirements for operating a wastewater treatment plant are achieved by controlling the operation of pumps at pump stations along a force main in a systematic fashion. The operation of the pumps is controlled to manage the flow of wastewater along the force main to minimize energy consumption, to eliminate sediment, to manage peak pressures encountered by smaller pumps and to avoid septic conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Data Flow Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas F. Smaidris
  • Publication number: 20130265167
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a system for reducing overflow caused by an appliance (100) using a liquid. The system comprises: a detector (200) arranged to detect if the appliance (100) has undesirably emitted part of the liquid, an internal server (300) being arranged to generate an alarm event in case the appliance (100) has undesirably emitted part of the liquid, and an external server. The external server is arranged to send, via a cellular network, a certificate to a predetermined first party in case an alarm event is generated. The certificate authorizes the first party to enter the location in which the appliance is located.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: ZAPLOX AB
    Inventors: Lars Tilly, Stefan Gripwall
  • Patent number: 8410948
    Abstract: A wastewater holding tank sensor probe for use in determining the presence of a conductive liquid held within a wastewater holding tank in a recreational vehicle is disclosed. The probe is less sensitive to the presence of conductive residue as a result of an improved geometry and/or choice of materials that reduce the leakage currents between the probe tip and the sensor probe attachment surface, typically the wall of the tank. This reduction in sensitivity to conductive residue buildup can be measured by a geometrically determined resistivity factor between the probe tip and the mounting surface of the probe. The reduction in sensitivity can also be measured by the length of the path through the conductive residue between the probe tip and the mounting surface of the probe. A variety of geometries and material choices to reduce the sensitivity of electrical conductance based sensor probes to conductive residue are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: John Vander Horst
  • Patent number: 8395516
    Abstract: An air freshening device is provided for detecting water leaks and protecting surfaces from water damage due to leaks. The device includes: a tray, configured for being placed upon a surface located under a water pipe; a removable and replaceable liner placed upon the tray, the liner comprising a material configured for releasing an air freshening substance into air, and for increasing the release rate of the substance upon contact with water. The increase of the release rate of the substance leads to an intensifying of the scent of the substance in air, and indicates the presence of a leak from the water pipe. The tray prevents water leaking from the water pipe from touching the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventors: Mark Richard Herrera, Lisa Marie Herrera
  • Patent number: 8330603
    Abstract: A dewatering system includes a selective calibrating sensor circuit configured to receive sensor readings from an electronic sensor, to determine if the electronic sensor is immersed in water, to allow a user to adjust a pump down time in the field, and to generate a control output signal accordingly. The selective calibrating sensor circuit periodically performs a self-calibration when the electronic sensor is not immersed in water to cancel the effect of potential contaminants deposited on the electronic sensor over its operating life. The selective calibrating sensor circuit inhibits calibration when the electronic sensor is immersed in water. In some applications with multiple electronic sensors, the selective calibrating sensor circuit disconnects from one of the electronic sensors before performing the self-calibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: SEEwater, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert F. Gibb
  • Patent number: 8248256
    Abstract: A non-contact flood and moisture detector for detecting water on remote surface includes a source of IR radiation directed towards the remote surface and projecting a field of illumination on the remote surface, and a receiver of IR radiation directed towards the remote surface, and collecting the IR radiation from a field of view on the remote surface, with the field of illumination and the field of view at least partially overlapping. A portion of the IR radiation is backscattered and received by the receiver and a portion of the IR radiation is specularly reflected and not received by the receiver. An electronic circuit synchronized with the source and the receiver compares the IR radiation measured by the receiver to a dry baseline condition level where a decrease in the backscattered IR radiation measured by the receiver indicates the presence of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventors: Joseph J Gerardi, Thomas Banas
  • Patent number: 8094031
    Abstract: An air freshening device is provided for detecting water leaks and protecting surfaces from water damage due to leaks. The device includes: a tray, configured for being placed upon a surface located under a water pipe; a removable and replaceable liner placed upon the tray, the liner comprising a material configured for releasing an air freshening substance into air, and for increasing the release rate of the substance upon contact with water. The increase of the release rate of the substance leads to an intensifying of the scent of the substance in air, and indicates the presence of a leak from the water pipe. The tray prevents water leaking from the water pipe from touching the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventors: Mark Richard Herrera, Lisa Marie Herrera
  • Patent number: 8004415
    Abstract: Methods, systems and program products are provided for monitoring an article for fluid exposure. A plurality of liquid sensors is incorporated into an article beneath an outer layer in a furnishing installation. In response to a fluid-detected or no-fluid-detected state, polling the sensors and sometimes other data, a processor component determines fluid exposure, sensor failure and tampering events and stores event data in a memory. Pairs of the sensors are sometimes provided within expected liquid exposure saturation footprint areas. GPS coordinate, weather condition data and structural component positioning data may also be associated with event data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory J. Boss, Peter G. Finn, Rick A. Hamilton, II, Brian M. O'Connell, James W. Seaman, Keith R. Walker
  • Patent number: 7821411
    Abstract: A noninvasive security device for detection of blocked fluid flow within a conduit includes clamping body that may be affixed to the conduit and a safety overflow circuit mounted to the clamping body. The safety overflow circuit includes first and second sensor pads that act as the metal plates of a capacitor. The sensor pads are connected to the clamping body and positioned proximate the conduit to measure the capacitance within the conduit. The capacitance will be low when water is freely flowing through the conduit, since the dielectric constant will be similar to that of air. However, when the water level increases in the conduit, the dielectric constant will increase as will the capacitance, such that a pulse signal is generated to notify the user of the occlusion and to further disable the source of the water to the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Diversitech Corporation
    Inventor: Charles Barry Ward
  • Patent number: 7760105
    Abstract: A water detection and alarm system to monitor household plumbing fixtures for leaks. A wick attached to a water activated battery cell connects to a charge accumulator, pulse timer, and audio transducer. The wick draws water from the leak and transports it into the battery cell. A sponge inside the cell absorbs the water and expands, chemically activating the cell, and subsequently providing the electrical energy for the charge accumulator and timer. The timer utilizes the energy stored in the charge accumulator to generate a pulse that drives an audio transducer. No conventional battery is used or required; thus periodic battery replacement is not necessary nor is there a need for a battery monitoring circuit to test for battery depletion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventor: John Bert Turner
  • Patent number: 7742871
    Abstract: An intelligent fuel oil monitoring system includes a fuel level detector coupled to a fuel tank of a motor vehicle to detect the amount of the fuel oil in the fuel tank, a microcontroller coupled to the fuel level detector to receive traveling data of the motor vehicle and to establish an average speed-fuel consumption relationship curve and fuel consumption and travel distance relationship curves at different speeds and to calculate the distance the motor vehicle can travel based on the amount of the fuel oil detected by the fuel level detector subject to the fuel consumption and travel distance relationship curve, and a display unit coupled to the microcontroller and controlled by the microcontroller to display data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Mingchi University of Technology
    Inventor: Yuan-Lin Chen
  • Patent number: 7671753
    Abstract: System and method are disclosed for monitoring slurry from a central location and replenishing the slurry as needed. The method/system allows a slurry supplier to track various properties of the slurry, as well as monitor various aspects of the slurry storage and delivery system. When the volume of slurry at the remote location falls below a predetermined point, the slurry supplier can schedule both the production of the appropriate slurry and its timely delivery to the customer. Changes in the condition of existing slurry, as well as leaks and other malfunctions in the slurry storage system, may be promptly detected and the slurry supplier immediately notified so that corrective actions may be taken. Multiple slurry storage systems at several remote locations may be monitored simultaneously from the central location. Such an arrangement offers a complete, one-stop solution to customers whose businesses depend on a reliable supply of “field ready” slurry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Benchmark Research & Technology, LLC
    Inventors: E. Wayne Kinsey, III, Michael Miller, Howard Lee Harry, Gordon Randall Dixon
  • Publication number: 20090314351
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventors: William McDonald, Walter Dabbs, Paul Willman
  • Patent number: 7489253
    Abstract: Disclosed are portable, easy-to-install apparatuses for detecting and containing fluid leaked or otherwise discharged from a fluid-filled device and for facilitating testing and maintenance of the apparatus and fluid-filled devices. In one aspect of the disclosed invention, upon sensing a fluid discharge, the apparatus activates audible and/or visual alarms and directs the discharged fluid to a predetermined drainage area to prevent damage to areas surrounding the fluid-filled device. In another aspect of the present invention, no plumbing or electrical wiring is required to install the apparatus, thereby allowing an unskilled individual to easily and inexpensively install the apparatus. In yet another aspect of the present invention, the apparatus may be easily located since it is not dependent on gravity or a drainage pipe for discharge of the fluid. Furthermore, the apparatus optionally includes an integral leveling mechanism to accommodate leveling of the apparatus when placed on uneven surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Kevin M. Murphy, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin Michael Murphy
  • Patent number: 7477157
    Abstract: An apparatus for determining and/or monitoring a physical or chemical process variable of a medium, having a sensor unit, which produces a measurement signal with a piece of process variable-dependent, basic information, and having an evaluation unit which, from the measurement signal of the sensor unit, determines a measured value for the process variable, and which produces an output signal with information concerning whether the measured value is greater or smaller than a limit value. A first and second modulation range are provided, and the evaluation unit modulates the output signal within the first or second modulation range with the basic information of the measurement signal, with the evaluation unit modulating the output signal within the first modulation range when the process variable is smaller than the limit value, and with the evaluation unit modulating the output signal within the second modulation range when the process variable is greater than the limit value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Volker Dreyer, Chris Rompf, Alexander Muller
  • Publication number: 20080223482
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for preventing overfilling of a plurality of fuel tanks (8) at a gasoline station, in the event that fuel tanks are filled simultaneously by multi-chamber tank vehicles (7). The fuel tanks (8) are equipped with filling level threshold indicators (3) linked to a transmitter (1) for wireless transmission of a signal. A receiver (2) mounted in the tank vehicle (7) is provided to control one or several tank valves. In order to ensure safe closure of the tank valves, the filling level threshold indicators (3) of the fuel tanks (8) at the gasoline station are connected each to a signal line (5) leading to a common interface (4). Only one transmitter (1) along with an interrogation control device is provided for connecting to said interface (4) and cooperates with the receiver (2) mounted in the tank vehicle (7).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventor: Dagmar Hockner
  • Patent number: 7417552
    Abstract: A flood alarm is disclosed. In an illustrative embodiment, the flood alarm includes a float assembly and a telephone system interface module connected to the float assembly. A method of indicating a flood in a structure is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Inventor: Milan Vaskovic
  • Patent number: 7345589
    Abstract: At least one embodiment of the inventive technology claimed herein seeks to reduce the risk of the excessive admixing of water during a concrete wetting operation by providing a system that alerts, with at least one water flow indicator, at least one individual having the ability to readily terminate the water admixing operation either that water is currently being added and/or perhaps that a certain time of water addition has elapsed. At least one embodiment of the inventive technology includes a proximity switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Inventor: Dusty Ehrlich
  • Patent number: 7336190
    Abstract: A device for the early detection and advanced warning that waste is backing up in a waste pipe line comprising: a tubular body member having an open lower portion, a central hollow core extending axially there through, and a closed upper portion. The open lower portion is dimensionally sized and configured to be removably yet sealably fitted and fixed into the waste pipe line. The closed upper portion is provided with a vent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventors: Joseph Giordano, Jr., Daniel Giordano
  • Patent number: 7307538
    Abstract: A single pump control unit can be coupled to first and second float switches and a pump for purposes of removing fluid from a region such as a sump. A supplemental set of contacts can be provided to couple an alarm indicating signal to a remote alarm. An alarm state can also be transmitted wirelessly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Metropolitan Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Kochan, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7265677
    Abstract: System for indicating when a tank is full. The system includes a signal and control box. A container is connected to the tank. The container has a base, a float, an upper portion, and a lower portion. An orifice is arranged at the upper portion of the container. The float has an electrical contact connected to the signal and control box. The base of the container is arranged one of above a maximum filling level of the tank and substantially at the same level as the maximum filling level of the tank. A communication conduit is connected to each of the base of the container and an area of the tank which is in proximity to an upper portion of the tank. The system generates at least one warning signal after the tank is completely filled and when the container is partially filled by the communication conduit. This Abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Dupont
  • Patent number: 7221282
    Abstract: A wireless wastewater system monitoring apparatus generally comprising a processor/transceiver unit, housed within a synthetic protective enclosure formed outside of the wastewater system, and a fluid level sensor configured to send an overflow signal to the processor/transceiver unit when an overflow condition in the wastewater system is detected. The processor/transceiver unit is configured with at least one microprocessor wired between the sensor and a power supply and with a transceiver so as to detect the overflow signal from the sensor and, in response, transmit a wireless alarm signal. The processor/transceiver unit is further configured such that only a portion of its circuitry is constantly powered so as to continuously monitor the sensor, while the remainder of its circuitry, including the transceiver, is only powered and a wireless signal sent from the unit when an overflow condition is detected or a routine status-check is being conducted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Wireless Telematics LLC
    Inventors: Allan L. Ross, William D. McWhirter, John S. Weaver, Paul R. Jordan, Arthur DeBolt
  • Patent number: 7135981
    Abstract: A signaling device for a marine vehicle having a fuel tank, a fuel level value detected in the fuel tank, and a blower to evacuate fuel fumes. The signaling device comprises: a fuel level variation detector; a refueling detector for detecting a fuel level variation corresponding to a refueling event; a refueling signal generator for generating a refueling signal when the refueling event is detected; and a refueling activator for activating the blower, and/or an indicator of refueling for the user, using the refueling signal. A signaling method for the marine vehicle comprising: detecting a variation of the fuel level value over time; detecting a fuel level increase in the variation to correspond to a refueling event; generating a refueling signal when the refueling event is detected; and activating the blower, and/or an indicator of refueling for the user, using the refueling signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Teleflex Megatech Inc.
    Inventor: Yvan Lafontaine
  • Patent number: 7079037
    Abstract: An indicator for displaying either low liquid level or satisfactory liquid level conditions within a tank includes a sensor for detecting the liquid level conditions, a photodetector for detecting an ambient dark condition, a pair of indicator lights for indicating either the low liquid level or satisfactory liquid level conditions, and electrical circuitry operable to illuminate one of the indicator lights upon detection of the ambient dark condition by the photodetector and detection of either the low liquid level condition or satisfactory liquid level condition by the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventors: Herbert G. Ross, Jr., Bud Wilcox
  • Patent number: 7057507
    Abstract: A system for monitoring leaks in dwellings that includes a sensor which detects water flow. The system determines that a leak is occurring when water has flowed through a water line for longer than a preselected period of time. A central monitoring system receives a signal from a local system and the central monitoring system has an associated record for each dwelling to thereby allow flexible response to correct the leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventor: Robert L. Sandifer
  • Patent number: 7053782
    Abstract: A fuel overflow alarm system sounds a buzzer or other alarm when a fuel level in a fuel tank of a vehicle or other machine approaches an overflow state, thereby alerting a user that fueling should be halted. The device is activated when a fuel cap or fuel cap cover on a filler inlet tube to the fuel tank is opened and is de-activated when the filler inlet tube is closed. Thus, electrical current drawn by the system can be limited to time periods when the fuel tank is being filled, thereby sparing the electrical system of the vehicle or machine from being depleted during periods of non-use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Yamaha Marine Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Sumihiro Takashima, Tomoyoshi Koyanagi
  • Patent number: 7009125
    Abstract: A linear slip to slip coupling has an input portion and an output portion with a common horizontal centerline. A fluid container has a threaded aperture. An adaptor has a threaded input end releasably coupled to the threaded aperture of the container. An unthreaded output end is coupled to the input portion. A nipple has an output end and an input end. The nipple is coupled to the output portion of the coupling. An end cap is coupled to the output end of the nipple. An induction switch subassembly is coupled to the coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventor: Rodolfo Hernandez-Zelaya
  • Patent number: 6950032
    Abstract: A water protection system apparatus for detecting and stopping a flow of water which includes a power supply, a water ionization switch, and a controlled valve assembly. The water ionization switch selectively conducts electricity when exposed to water and includes an initially dry non-conductive crystallized compound. The compound ionizes when exposed to water to form an electrolyte which conducts electricity. This switch is connected to a controlled valve assembly to stop the flow of water in response to the detection of water by the switch. Other refinements include modifications to the switch housing and condition indicators for monitoring the system and signaling water detection and shutdown operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Dry Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: John K. Hewitt, Ronald Andrew Cina, Ronald August Cina
  • Patent number: 6922150
    Abstract: Method and device for calculating the level of the surface of a product in a storage room by a radar level gauging system, which includes a first gauging device for calculating a first value of level and functionally separated from the first gauging device a second gauging device for calculating a second value of said level, wherein: a first signal is produced being dependent of a preset first threshold value of the level in the first gauging device, a first current level value signal is output from the first gauging device, a second signal is produced in dependence of a preset second threshold value of the level in the second gauging device, a second current level value signal is output from the second gauging device and the value of the current level of said surface is presented by an indicating unit adapted to receive at least one of the first level value signal and the second level value signal for evaluation of the current level value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Saab Rosemount Tank Radar AB
    Inventors: Ola Håll, Stig Larson, Daniel Johansson
  • Patent number: 6898499
    Abstract: A control system enables a considerable decrease in electric power consumption of backup power, leading to effective prevention of a dead battery, while data in each control unit which need be maintained even after power is turned off is properly maintained. An ECU has a first transmitter to transmit data which need be maintained to an ECU for storage when a change in position of an IGSW connected to a battery to the off position is detected, and a power supply cutoff circuit to cut off the power supply to the other ECUs after the completion of the transmission of data to the ECU for storage by the first transmitter, wherein the ECU for storage has a first storage controller to store the data transmitted from the other ECUs in RAM, and a power switching circuit to detect the change of the IGSW to the off position and switch the power of the ECU for storage to the backup power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Fujitsu Ten Limited
    Inventors: Hiroshi Arita, Shuuji Kimura
  • Patent number: 6828912
    Abstract: Resonant decay sensors that determine a parameter based on the decay of acoustic standing waves in a tube. Parameters that can be determined include temperature, pressure, the level of a material in the tube, and the height of a material above an end of the tube. Resonant decay sensors can produce both point level and continuous level sensors. A vibration mount, such as a rubber ring, beneficially isolates an acoustic transducer from the body of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: John Michael Kelly
  • Publication number: 20030071737
    Abstract: Stormwater running at a construction site is monitored from an off-site location. When rainfall of a selected level is detected on site, a specimen of runoff is collected and an offsite station signaled that the event has occurred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Dilip Nawathe
  • Publication number: 20030048191
    Abstract: A sump pump alarm comprises a 120 db, 600 ma 12 vdc siren with a mounting bracket thats screwed into a floor joist over head. The siren also has a three pulse sound pattern to be heard, a 120 vac/12 vdc output adapter thats 100 ma of acceptance maximum for current load, thats contained inside of a 5×7×3 inch plastic black box. The adapter has a 9 ft. extention cord connecting from 120 vac wall outlet and the negative side of the 14 gauge extention to the 12 vdc adapter, and a 12 vdc flashing led thats connected by a 22 gauge wire coming out of the 12 vdc siren, and a 14 gauge solid wire thats put at least 12 inches below the normal water level in the well for grounding, this wire comes from either a water pipe ground or natural ground of the water to a metal discharge pipe in the well. And a 14 gauge solid wire that hangs up over the normal water level by one inch for detection of water rising, due to the sump pump failing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventor: Juangi Michael Denton
  • Patent number: 6493593
    Abstract: An electronic control unit includes a first microprocessor monitoring the operation of a second microprocessor and has a monitoring operation blocking unit for preventing the second microprocessor from being reset by the first microprocessor while the second microprocessor is loading from a memory thereof so that even when a control program is loaded into the monitoring microprocessor before one is loaded into the monitored microprocessor, the control program can be loaded with certainty. Each microprocessor executes a control program stored in the memory, and when a predetermined reloading condition has been established, executes a loading process for receiving load data transmitted thereto from outside into the memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Takamichi Kamiya, Takehiro Abeta
  • Patent number: 6476723
    Abstract: Insulating oil in electric power transmission devices such as a transformer is filtered for removal of accumulated water and carbon particles. The filter and circulation pump are usually located in a separate cabinet external to the transformer with circulation conduits connecting the filter, the pump and the transformer. To prevent environmental contamination by leaks or ruptures in the oil circulation conduits, secondary or sleeving conduits surround and protect the circulation conduits and additionally provide an independent leak flow conduit back to the filter cabinet dry sump. An accumulation of oil in the dry sump actuates a fluid sensor to transmit an alarm signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Filmax, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Campbell, David McMahan Butler, Johnny James Clark
  • Patent number: 6442955
    Abstract: A safety switch that can be used with an air handling system is disclosed. The air-cooling system includes a drain pan for collecting liquid condensed on the evaporator coils. The pan is fluidwise connected to a T- or L-shaped tubular structure, installable at any slope from horizontal to vertical, in which the switch is mounted and the switch is electrically connected to a circuit of the system, a power circuit or an alarm circuit. The switch has an annular float containing an annular magnet mounted about a tube in which is sealed a reed switch. The float ascends or descends based on the level of liquid within the tubular structure. Dependent upon a predetermined level of liquid within the tubular structure the float will move along the tube to open or close the reed switch to either disrupt operation of the air handling system or operate an alarm circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventors: Stuart Peter Oakner, Mark Thomas Brannick, Donna Ellen Oakner Brannick
  • Patent number: 6335690
    Abstract: A fluid sensing system for monitoring a fluid parameter within a fluid container includes a fluid sensor and a fluid receiver. The fluid sensor is positioned at a first location and is operable to sense the fluid parameter. The fluid receiver is positioned at a second location remote from the first location and within proximity to the fluid sensor. The fluid receiver includes an amplifier having a feedback path. The amplifier is in a waiting non-oscillating mode when the fluid sensor is not electromagnetically coupled to the fluid receiver and in an active oscillating mode when the fluid sensor is electromagnetically coupled to the fluid receiver, such that feedback in the feedback path is one of either a substantially zero feedback and a negative feedback when the amplifier is a waiting non-oscillating mode and said feedback path is a positive feedback when said amplifier is in an active oscillating mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Algonquin Scientific, LLC
    Inventors: Boris Konchin, Slavik Isakov, Randy W. Corey
  • Patent number: 6323774
    Abstract: A monitor, shutoff control, and alarm for use with an inlet water supply obtained from a municipal water supply to prevent excessive usage of water due to leakage or human error, that includes a measuring means and shutoff valve connected to the inlet supply, a processor that includes a program for setting threshold values of water volume per unit time anticipated by the particular household, which, when exceeded, will set off an audio alarm or will activate a telephone dialer to call a predetermined number if no one is at home. The system is programmed in volume increments of time, such as hours, days, or weeks, to accommodate systems that include sprinklers which may require some volume of water over a short period of time. The system can be portable. It is easily installed and mounted in conventional water systems for homes, but can be individually adjusted based on the anticipated water usage of a particular household.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Gregory L. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 6218948
    Abstract: The invention is an oil-water detection device for monitoring the presence of water in a container. The device consists of a probe having two thin strips of sheeting within a fiberglass circuit board for sensing the presence of water in a container and generating a signal dependent on the presence of water, a divide counter and Stamp II micro-processor and an accessory communications link connected to the micro-processor. A power supply is also provided. The detection device can differentiate between oil and water and will not be activated merely by the presence of oil on the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Alfred Dana
  • Patent number: 6160486
    Abstract: A system for visually indicating activation of an alarm, even if the alarm is no longer activated. The system has a moveable visual indicator having an elongated shaft with a stop at one end, the shaft extending through a guide mounted on the alarm. A magnet on the stop temporarily affixes the visual indicator to the alarm until the alarm is activated, at which time the visual indicator separates from the alarm and falls vertically to protrude from the guide, indicating that the alarm has been activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Karl O. Niedermeyer
  • Patent number: 6154144
    Abstract: The Automatic Shutoff Overflow Controller comprises a circuit which engages between a source of power and a water processing device, the controller, sensing an undesirably high water level in the device, shutting off the device and producing an audible warning that such condition exists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Stephen Johnson
  • Patent number: 6040776
    Abstract: Described herein is an alarm system for use with a `bag-in-box` arrangement (10) which is used to collect effluent from a processing apparatus (20). The alarm system comprises a chamber (50) located between the processing apparatus (20) and the `bag-in-box` arrangement (10) which includes a level sensor (52) which indicates that the `bag-in-box` arrangement (10) has been overfilled by a predetermined amount and is ready for changing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Edward Charles Glover, Martyn Stuart Glover