Responsive To Accumulation Of Pumped Liquid In Receiver Patents (Class 417/36)
  • Patent number: 11806465
    Abstract: In one embodiment, an irrigated medical system includes a medical tool, an irrigation line configured to fluidically connect an irrigation reservoir storing irrigation fluid to the medical tool, and provide at least some of the irrigation fluid to the medical tool, a force sensor configured to be coupled with the irrigation reservoir, and provide a signal responsively to a force exerted by the irrigation reservoir on the force sensor over time as irrigation fluid in the irrigation reservoir is depleted, and a controller configured to find an irrigation rate of the irrigation fluid flowing in the irrigation line responsively to the signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Assignee: JOHNSON & JOHNSON SURGICAL VISION, INC.
    Inventors: Assaf Govari, Eran Aharon
  • Patent number: 11788535
    Abstract: Example systems and methods for manipulating control of sump pumps in order to extend lifespans of the sump pumps are disclosed. An example method includes activating a sump pump a first time; deactivating the sump pump when a first current water level in a sump basin in which the sump pump is disposed reaches a first low-water mark; and determining, by one or more processors, a time since a last activation of the sump pump wherein the last activation occurred when the sump pump activated the first time. When the time satisfies a threshold, the method activates the sump pump at second time, determines, by one or more processors, a second current water level in the sump basin, and in response to determining that the second current water level in the sump basin is below a second low-water mark corresponding to a bottom of an impeller of the sump pump, deactivates the sump pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: STATE FARM MUTUAL AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE COMPANY
    Inventors: Nathan L. Tofte, Jonathan Christopher Hull, John Donovan, Richard Jan Tjaden
  • Patent number: 11708834
    Abstract: An electric immersion pump having a containment shell containing a wet section, an electromechanical section, and an electronic section, having a compartment inside which an assembly for the control and actuation of the electric pump is contained, wherein the control and actuation assembly is connected to a user interface, a wireless Near Field Communication (NFC), and an electronic management and control element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: DAB PUMPS S.P.A.
    Inventors: Francesco Sinico, Sergio Sportoletti, Francesco Ciuchi, Stefano Tazioli
  • Patent number: 11639721
    Abstract: The present application discloses a manual-automatic integrated self-adaptive pump with an infrared water level detection function, which comprises a pump housing, a water pumping assembly, a base, a vacuum cofferdam, a water outlet pipeline, a volute, an exhaust port, a sensor adjusting mechanism and an infrared liquid level sensing assembly. In this way, the manual-automatic integrated self-adaptive pump with the infrared water level detection function provided by the present application has a compact structure, can be easily installed, has strong adaptability, can realize manual and automatic free switching, can realize more accurate detection of remaining water level, has a longer service life, and can solve the problem of sensing the water level in the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2023
    Assignee: GP Enterprises Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xian Wang, Ningning Ding
  • Patent number: 11255333
    Abstract: A method for stopping a submersible pump when the pump is snoring, wherein the pump is operatively connected to a control unit. The method includes regulating, by way of the control unit, the operational speed of the pump in order to direct an average power of the pump towards a predetermined set level. The method includes determining whether the instantaneous power of the pump is outside a predetermined range, by monitoring at least one of the parameters: power [P], current [I] and power factor [cos ?].The method further includes determining whether the operational speed of the pump is increasing, and stopping the pump due to snoring, by way of the control unit, when the instantaneous power of the pump is determined as being outside the predetermined range at the same time the operational speed of the pump is determined as increasing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Inventor: Zhiyong Zhong
  • Patent number: 11207458
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses for regulating the delivery of negative-pressure therapy are described. The system includes a negative-pressure source, an energy source, and a switch. The switch can include a first conductor electrically coupled to the negative-pressure source, a second conductor electrically coupled to the energy source, and a diaphragm having a first position electrically coupling the first conductor to the second conductor and a second position separated from the first conductor and the second conductor. The diaphragm is configured to move between the first position and the second position in response to a differential between a control pressure and a therapy pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2021
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Brian Locke, Benjamin Andrew Pratt
  • Patent number: 11193481
    Abstract: A sump pump system includes a plurality of sump pumps adapted to be disposed within a crock. The sump pump system also includes a plurality of water level sensors adapted to be disposed within the crock. Each of the plurality of water level sensors generates water level signals. The sump pump system further includes a plurality of electronic controllers. Each of the plurality of water level sensors is connected to each of the plurality of electronic controllers, and each of the plurality of electronic controllers is connected to operate each of the plurality of sump pumps in response to the water level signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Inventors: Charles E. Rupp, Brian J. Rupp
  • Patent number: 11168547
    Abstract: A device is provided for pumping fluid from a wellbore up to surface. The device includes a stator unit, a rotor unit run within the stator unit on a rod string, the rotor unit and the stator unit engaging with one another to form an annular space therebetween for passage of fluid. An upstream check valve on the rod string uphole of the rotor unit is moveable from an open position in which fluid is passable through the annular space, and a closed position in which fluid passage through the annular space is prevented. A hollow rod section extends through the rod string in fluid communication with the annular space both downstream and upstream of the upstream check valve, for entry of fluid into a downhole end of the hollow rod section, passage of fluid upstream therefrom and exit of fluids from an uphole end of the hollow rod section, back into the annular space. A method is further provided for pumping fluid from a wellbore after shutdown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Assignee: Artificial Lift Production International Corp.
    Inventor: Brennon Leigh Cote
  • Patent number: 11085450
    Abstract: A pump includes a housing including a first portion thereof defining opposed parallel spaced apart internal and exterior generally planar surfaces. The pump also includes a first impeller rotatably secured to the housing and positioned within the housing. The pump also includes a first axial flux motor connected to the first impeller and at least partially positioned within the housing. The first axial flux motor includes a first motor rotor fixedly secured to the first impeller. The first motor rotor has a generally planar surface thereof positioned adjacent to and parallel to the internal generally planar surface of the first portion of the housing. The first axial flux motor includes a first motor stator fixedly secured to the housing. The first motor stator has a generally planar surface thereof positioned adjacent to and parallel to the external generally planar surface of the first portion of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignees: REGAL BELOIT AMERICA, INC., REGAL BELOIT AUSTRALIA PTY. LTD.
    Inventors: Mohamad Khalil Dahouk, Jason Jon Kreidler, Bruce Cole, Norman Carl Golm, Jr., Lester Benjamin Manz, Gregory Gross, Michael Allen Marks, John Sheldon Wagley, Yilcan Guzelgunler, Greg Heins, Matthew J. Turner
  • Patent number: 10760937
    Abstract: A system includes a container having an inner chamber for storing fluid, at least one measuring probe arranged within the chamber and one ground probe arranged within or near a bottom of the chamber. There is at least one impedance electrically connected with a processor which is electrically connected with the at least one measuring probe. A signal generator has a first voltage terminal electrically connected with the at least one impedance and a second voltage terminal electrically connected with the ground probe. When a signal is sent from the signal generator to the measuring probe, an electrochemical reaction occurs at the measuring probe and ground probe and stores a charge if the measuring probe and/or ground probe are immersed in fluid. The processor measures the voltage, current and power of the signal to calculate the resistance and capacitance of the fluid within the container to determine the level of fluid in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Inventor: Edward Bender
  • Patent number: 10746435
    Abstract: In order to enable a drain pan to be visually checked for contamination without requiring a complicated operation, the present invention is configured so as to be equipped with: a housing; a drain pan provided inside the housing; a drain pump for pumping up drain water accumulated in the drain pan; an opening provided in a side surface of the housing; and a cover member attached to the opening and covering the opening. When the cover member is detached from the opening at least a portion of the drain pan can be viewed from the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: HITACHI-JOHNSON CONTROLS AIR CONDITIONING, INC.
    Inventors: Naoki Muramatsu, Hajime Sasaki, Kouji Yonekura, Kazuho Hirao, Ryou Shibusawa, Hiroki Kinoshita
  • Patent number: 10626873
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for determining a use condition of an appliance, such as a sump pump, and outputting an indication of the current use condition of the appliance. A system implementing the method will first generate an actual first signature of a first characteristic associated with the appliance. The system will then generate an actual second signature of a second characteristic associated with the appliance. Each of the actual first and second signatures are then compared to corresponding expected signatures. The system then selects a current use condition from a plurality of use conditions based on the relationship between the actual signatures and the expected signatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: CONNECTM TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Nayeem M. Hussain, Ryan T. Fant, William J. McLeod, Theodore R. Ullrich, Dean DiPietro, Nathan Gardner Meryash, Pepin Sebastian Gelardi
  • Patent number: 10333456
    Abstract: A safety device for an actuator that can modulate power to an electric motor in response to a fault condition (e.g., stall). In one embodiment, the actuator can include a motor with a shaft, a sensor disposed in proximity to the shaft, and a control processor coupled with the sensor and the motor. The control processor can be configured to receive a signal from the sensor that conveys operating data that relates to rotation of the shaft, use the operating data to identify a fault condition on the motor, and change the motor from an energized condition to a de-energized condition in response to the fault condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Natural Gas Solutions North America, LLC
    Inventor: Andrew Logan Perkins
  • Patent number: 9887513
    Abstract: A laser apparatus that can reliably prevent the formation of condensation is disclosed. In the laser apparatus, the temperature of cooling water supplied into the interior of the laser apparatus is controlled within a first predetermined temperature range during laser oscillation, while at the same time, continuously performing dehumidification so that the relation (dew point of air inside laser apparatus)+(first predetermined temperature difference)?(cooling water temperature) is maintained. The dew point of the air inside the laser apparatus can be obtained by a computing unit from the humidity and temperature of the air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: FANUC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiroshi Takigawa, Akihiko Nishio
  • Patent number: 9752569
    Abstract: A method and system detects and resolves impending failures in a sump pump. The method and system may measure a current water level in a sump basin, which houses the sump pump. The current water level may be determined by a water level sensor placed slightly above a set water level mark in the sump basin. If the current water level is above the set water level mark, the method and system may activate a mechanical shaker that produces vibrations to physically shake the sump pump. If the current water level is below the set water level mark, the method and system may determine potential problems associated with the sump pump by analyzing a motor of the sump pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: STATE FARM MUTUAL AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE COMPANY
    Inventors: Scott C. Morris, Shawn M. Call, Jackie O. Jordan, II
  • Patent number: 9534593
    Abstract: An automated system for monitoring and testing a sump pump installation includes an electrically-actuated valve which admits liquid to the liquid container in response to a valve control signal. A test control module includes a test control circuit which when actuated supplies a valve control signal to initiate a test cycle during which liquid is admitted to the container to cause the liquid level in the container to rise, after which the sump pump discharges liquid from the container until a predetermined event terminates the test cycle. An indicator circuit indicates in response to completion of the test cycle whether the test was successful or unsuccessful. A communications circuit is included which receives and verifies control signals addressed to the system from an external originator to allow a test cycle to be remotely initiated in the event of impending severe weather or other threats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Beacon Technical Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Eugene M. Cummings, Kerry Berland
  • Patent number: 9534606
    Abstract: An automated system for testing and monitoring a sump pump installation includes an electrically-actuated valve which admits liquid to the sump container in response to a valve control signal. A test control module actuates the valve to initiate a test cycle during which liquid is admitted to the sump container to cause the liquid level in the container to rise to a predetermined level, after which the pump, if functional, discharges liquid from the container until the liquid level falls to a lower level and the test cycle is terminated. The test control module includes an indicator circuit which indicates in response to completion of the test cycle whether the test was successful or unsuccessful. A processor circuit records the elapsed time of successive test cycles and the current supplied to the sump pump motor to identify trends or anomalies in the operation of the pump and provide an output signal indicative thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Beacon Technical Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene M. Cummings
  • Patent number: 9528512
    Abstract: A test and monitoring system for a sump pump installation of the type having a battery-powered sump pump which pumps liquid from a sump container when the liquid level in the container rises. A current probe operatively associated with the electrical circuit between the battery and the pump provides an output signal indicative of current flow to the motor. The system includes a control module which is periodically actuated to initiate a test cycle wherein a valve is actuated open to admit liquid into the pit. If the pump is operative, the pump pumps liquid from the container, causing the liquid level in the sump container to fall, and the control module in response to the output signal of the current probe to terminate the test cycle and indicate a successful test. If the sump pump is inoperative, the liquid level in the container continues to rise and the test cycle is terminated, the valve is closed and an unsuccessful test is indicated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: Beacon Technical Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene M. Cummings
  • Patent number: 9528522
    Abstract: A self-monitoring valve module responsive to an actuating signal for admitting liquid into a sump container to test a sump pump includes an electrically-actuated valve responsive to the actuating signal to establish flow into the container, and a flow sensor which provides an output signal indicative of liquid flow through the valve, and a monitoring circuit which provides a fault signal indicating failure of the valve when the actuating signal is not calling for actuation of the valve and the flow sensor output signal indicates flow through the fluid conduit, or when the actuating signal is calling for actuation of the valve and the flow sensor output signal indicates no flow in the fluid conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: Beacon Technical Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene M Cummings
  • Patent number: 9528523
    Abstract: An automated system for monitoring and testing a sump pump installation includes an electrically-actuated valve which admits liquid into the liquid container in response to a valve control signal. A test control module supplies a valve control signal to initiate a test cycle during which liquid is admitted to the container to cause the liquid level in the container to rise after which the pump, if functional, discharges liquid from the container and the test cycle is terminated. The test control module includes a timer circuit which, if the test cycle is not terminated by the pump, terminates the test cycle and terminates application of the valve control signal to the valve after a predetermined time out period following initiation of the test cycle. The test control module further includes an indicator circuit which indicates upon termination of the test cycle whether the test was successful or unsuccessful.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: Beacon Technical Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene M. Cummings
  • Patent number: 9528520
    Abstract: A test and monitoring system for a sump pump installation of the type having two electrically-powered pumps in a sump container wherein each, when actuated by rising liquid in the container, pump water from the container to a dispersal site. A test control module initiates a first test cycle in which the operation of the second pump is inhibited and fresh water is admitted into the container until the first pump, if functional, pumps liquid from the container. The test control module then initiates a second test cycle in which operation of the first pump is inhibited and fresh water is again admitted into the container until the second pump, if functional, pumps liquid from the container. A separate indication of a satisfactory of unsatisfactory test is given for each sump pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: Beacon Technical Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene M. Cummings
  • Patent number: 9406524
    Abstract: A substrate processing method for processing a substrate by supplying a processing gas into a processing chamber and allowing the processing gas to react on the substrate in the processing chamber by using a substrate processing apparatus includes the processing chamber accommodating the substrate, a processing gas supply unit for supplying the processing gas into the processing chamber, and a gas exhaust unit, for exhausting the processing chamber, having a turbo molecular pump. The method controls a processing uniformity by controlling a revolution speed of the turbo molecular pump while maintaining a pressure in the processing chamber to a predetermined level when by-products having a larger molecular mass compared to the processing gas are generated by the reaction of the processing gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Takahashi, Taechun Kwon
  • Patent number: 9403520
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a valve for controlling fluids, including a valve body defining a passage opening, a tapering valve seat formed on the valve body, a closing element configured to open up and to close off the passage opening at the tapering valve seat, and a protruding region adjoining the tapering valve seat. The protruding region extends over only part of a circumference of the tapering valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhard Fink, Dirk Foerch, Thomas Weitze
  • Patent number: 9404501
    Abstract: A proactive test and monitoring system for a sump pump installation of the type having an electrically-powered sump pump which pumps water from a sump pit to a dispersal site when the water level in the pit rises to a predetermined level. The system includes a control module which is periodically actuated by an event timer to initiate a test cycle wherein a valve is actuated open to admit water into the pit. If the pump is operative, the pump operates and the water level in the pit falls, the test cycle is terminated and a successful test is indicated. If the pump is inoperative, the water level continues to rise and the test cycle is terminated, the valve is closed and an unsuccessful test is indicated. Thus the sump pump installation is periodically tested to improve the reliability of the pump and to signal pump inoperability in advance of any potential flood event requiring operation of the pump installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: Beacon Technical Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene M. Cummings
  • Publication number: 20150147190
    Abstract: An automated system for monitoring and testing a sump pump installation includes an electrically-actuated valve which admits liquid to the liquid container in response to a valve control signal. A test control module includes a test control circuit which when actuated supplies a valve control signal to initiate a test cycle during which liquid is admitted to the container to cause the liquid level in the container to rise, after which the sump pump discharges liquid from the container until a predetermined event terminates the test cycle. An indicator circuit indicates in response to completion of the test cycle whether the test was successful or unsuccessful. A communications circuit is included which receives and verifies control signals addressed to the system from an external originator to allow a test cycle to be remotely initiated in the event of impending severe weather or other threats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventors: Eugene M. Cummings, Kerry Berland
  • Patent number: 8992182
    Abstract: Times of at least one of on cycles and off cycles of a pump operating in one of a sub-pump mode and a continuous pumping mode are monitored. A determination is made as to whether to switch the pump from the one of the sub-pump mode and the continuous pumping mode to the other of the sub-pump mode and the continuous pumping mode based upon the monitored times of the at least one of the on cycles and the off cycles of the pump. The pump is switched to the other of the sub-pump mode and the continuous pumping mode in response to determining to switch the pump from the one of the sub-pump mode and the continuous pumping mode to the other of the sub-pump mode and the continuous pumping mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: David G. Robinson, Keith A. Wells
  • Publication number: 20150064022
    Abstract: An autonomous water extraction system is disclosed that includes at least one solar-panel operable to convert solar energy to usable power for a sump pump to extract water from a building having no live connection to a municipal power supply. A battery is electrically coupled to at least one of the solar-panel and a power module. The battery is operable to receive and store solar energy from the at least one of the solar-panel and the power module. An inverter is electrically coupled to the battery that is operable to convert a direct current from the battery into an alternating current for powering the sump pump. The sump pump extracts water when a water level sensor detects that the water level within the building exceeds a predetermined threshold. The sump pump is placed within a sump pit. The water discharges from the building through a discharge pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: Miguel Angel Cobo
  • Patent number: 8961146
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided featuring a switch-mode power supply (SMPS) having a power circuit component in combination with a SMPS controller. The power circuit component may be configured to provide power to a pump that provides fluid from a container to some other device, including an appliance. The SMPS controller may be configured to receive signaling containing information about at least one control parameter selected from a group including a pressure at an outlet of the pump, a fluid level in the container and the temperature of a motor of the pump, and also may be configured to shut off the power provided to the pump based at least partly on the signaling received so that the power circuit component substantially does not draw power and heat up when the pump is shut off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Flow Control LLC
    Inventors: David L. Phillips, Humberto Valenzuela Meza, Jignesh N. Pandya, Ujjaval D. Joshi
  • Patent number: 8955539
    Abstract: The portable steel-reinforced HDPE pump station includes a vertically upright, cylindrical wet well fabricated from steel-reinforced plastic. Pumps are disposed in the wet well. A pipe connected to the pumps extends to the outside of the wet well to allow outflow of water to external systems. An access hatch covers the upper portion of the wet well and is arranged above grade. The remainder of the wet well is disposed in the ground, below grade. Vertically disposed sliding rails are attached inside the wet well, and extend upward from a working area of the well to the top of the well near the access hatch. The pumps are slidably attached to the rails to facilitate sliding installation and removal of the pumps by way of the access hatch. A water-receiving inlet pipe extends into the wet well, the inlet pipe allowing entry of water inside the wet well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Inventors: Daniel M. Early, Scott F. Easter
  • Publication number: 20150044060
    Abstract: A pump control system receives inputs from a low level fluid level sensor and a high level fluid level sensor. Based on inputs from the sensors, and in response to sensed trouble conditions, duplex pumping or pump specific simplex operation is restricted based on past and present pump current draws.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: John R. Kochan, JR.
  • Patent number: 8936444
    Abstract: Described herein is technology for, among other things, controlling a pump submersed in a liquid, where the pump includes a plurality of capacitive sensors. The capacitive sensors include a first capacitive sensor and a second capacitive sensor disposed above the first capacitive sensor. The technology involves sensing liquid levels with the capacitive sensors, activating the pump after the second capacitive sensor detects the liquid in a normal mode of operation, deactivating the pump after the first capacitive sensor no longer detects the liquid in the normal mode of operation, detecting a failure of one or more capacitive sensors, and adjusting the operation of the pump to compensate for the failure of the one or more capacitive sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Pentair Flow Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Melissa Drechsel, Shawn Rediske, Ronald Pulvermacher, David Peters
  • Patent number: 8892372
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating a pumping system includes the following: determining a motor operating parameter of a motor configured to drive a pump in a well; determining a pump operating parameter of the pump based on the motor operating parameter; operating the pump in a first mode to determine pump characteristics at a desired fluid level; generating first mode output data based on operation of the pump in the first mode; operating the pump in a second mode based on the first mode output data; determining an estimated fluid level in the well based on the motor operating parameter, the pump operating parameter and the first mode output data; and adjusting the pump speed based on the estimated fluid level in order to maintain a desired fluid level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Unico, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald G. Peterson
  • Patent number: 8892263
    Abstract: A method and system detects and resolves impending failures in a sump pump, such as failures in a motor of the sump pump and soft mechanical failures. To detect failures in the motor, the method and system may analyze the electrical load waveform of the motor to identify signatures that may indicate potential problems with the motor. To detect soft mechanical failures, the method and system may measure the current water level in a sump basin, which houses the sump pump. The current water level may be determined by a water level sensor placed slightly above the high water level mark in the sump basin. To resolve the detected failures, the method and system may activate a mechanical shaker, which may be attached or integrated with the sump pump, that produces vibrations to physically shake the sump pump. If the failures cannot be resolved by the mechanical shaker, the method and system may send an alert message to notify a user of the situation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company
    Inventors: Scott C. Morris, Shawn M. Call, Jackie O. Jordan, II
  • Patent number: 8840376
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pumping system for moving water of a swimming pool, including a water pump and a variable speed motor. In one example, a target volume amount of water and an operational time period is provided, and the operational time period is altered based upon a volume of water moved. In another example, operation of the motor is altered based upon the volume of water moved. In addition or alternatively, a target flow rate of water to be moved by the water pump is determined based upon the target volume amount and a time period. In addition or alternatively, a plurality of operations are performed on the water, and a total volume of water moved by the pump is determined. In addition or alternatively, an optimized flow rate value is determined based upon power consumption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Stiles, Jr., Lars Hoffmann Berthelsen, Ronald B. Robol, Christopher R. Yahnker, Einar Kjartan Runarsson
  • Patent number: 8784068
    Abstract: A system, method and device may be used to monitor fluid levels in a borehole. The system includes a pulse generator to generate a pulse of electromagnetic energy to propagate along the wellbore towards a surface of the fluid, a detector to detect a portion of the electromagnetic pulse reflected from the surface of the fluid and propagated along the wellbore towards the detector, a processor to analyze detected signals to determine a level of the surface of the fluid, and a pump controller to control the operation of a pump located in the wellbore based on the fluid surface level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventors: M. Clark Thompson, Charles H. Webb
  • Publication number: 20140161629
    Abstract: A system is taught for automatically siphoning water out of a sump pit or reservoir that only relies on domestic water as the sole source of motive power to automatically evacuate water from a sump pit. This pump system uses neither electricity nor floats as it mechanically amplifies a small pneumatic pressure signal—a change in air pressure—to turn on and off a higher-pressure hydraulic source such as a domestic water supply having a pressure of approximately 60 psig. The present sump pump system further teaches an eductor Venturi assembly having an annular groove in the fluid outflow conduit that creates pumping suction using the principle of differential pressure created when a fluid transitions from laminar to turbulent flow. This sump pump system operates with or without backpressure unlike some systems of this type.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2014
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventor: Lewis Werner Fleischmann
  • Patent number: 8731726
    Abstract: A method is provided for regulating fluid pump pressures by detecting an elevation differential between a fluid flow control device and the distal end of a fluid line in communication with the fluid flow control device. A fluid flow control device, for instance a peritoneal dialysis device, is at a first height, a distal end of a fluid line is at a second height, and a valved outlet, when open, affords communication between the fluid flow control device and the distal end of the fluid line. The elevation differential is correlatable with a pressure measurable during a calibration procedure provided as a part of the methodology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Larry B. Gray, Robert J. Bryant
  • Publication number: 20140119947
    Abstract: Systems and methods for sump pump remote monitoring can include control circuitry integrated into a portable housing, with a backup sump pump connected to the control circuitry. The control circuitry can be powered by a line power and when the line power is not available, the control circuitry can be powered by a battery power. The control circuitry can be connected to a control panel, and the control circuitry can include a pressure transducer, the pressure transducer to measure a pressure in a fluid level sensor, and based on the measured pressure, the control circuitry to adjust the speed of the backup sump pump. A wireless controller can be connected to the control circuitry, the wireless controller for wirelessly receiving monitoring instructions and wirelessly transmitting backup sump pump status data, with the control circuitry providing an indication of the backup sump pump status data to the control panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventors: Michael B. Bishop, Jeffrey C. Ambrose, Thomas G. Boese
  • Publication number: 20140119946
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide battery backup sump pump (BBU) systems and methods. The BBU systems and methods can be used with a battery and an alternating current power source to charge the battery. The BBU systems and methods can be adapted to be a portable power source for AC and DC external devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventors: Thomas G. Boese, Michael B. Bishop, Jeffrey C. Ambrose, John Emerson, David E. Paton, Joseph J. Mazza
  • Patent number: 8684700
    Abstract: Disclosed is a liquid level indicator suitable for use with an electrical power source comprises: a liquid level indication rod at least partially immersed in the liquid, the liquid level indication rod including a plurality of electrical contacts disposed on a surface of a non-conductive material; a level indicator transmitter in electrical communication with the liquid level indication rod and with the electrical power source, the level indicator transmitter functioning to measure current flow from each of the plurality of contacts to a ground in the liquid so as to determine which of said plurality of electrical contacts lie beneath a surface of the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventor: Stephen Carson-Rowland
  • Patent number: 8672639
    Abstract: A vacuum assisted bilge pump small enough for the crowded spaces below decks in the engine and pump room of a boat which can also function as a transfer pump, a crash pump and a fire extinguisher. The pump comprises two chambers and is internally configured to aid in the separation of gas and liquid increasing pump throughput.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventor: William L. Wallace
  • Patent number: 8657583
    Abstract: A liquid handling system having a tank with a centrifugal pump for pumping the liquid out of the tank is disclosed. The centrifugal pump is located beneath tank and has a coaxial inlet-outlet. Capacitive sensors are used to detect the level of liquid in the tank, and control circuits are connected to the capacitive sensors and control the operation of the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Diversitech Corporation
    Inventor: Charles Barry Ward
  • Patent number: 8651824
    Abstract: A condensate pump for an HVAC system includes a reservoir for collecting condensate water, a pump motor connected to an impeller pump for pumping the condensate water out of the reservoir, and a floatless pump control module. The floatless pump's microcontroller detects the water level in the reservoir and, based on the water level in the reservoir, controls the operation of the pump motor, and if necessary, sounds an alarm and shuts down the HVAC system. The floatless pump microcontroller may employ an ultrasonic transducer or capacitance sensors to detect the level of condensate water in the reservoir. The microcontroller implements a variable water lift feature to pump the water using the lowest possible speed for the pump. The microcontroller implements a self-cleaning feature to pump stagnant water out of the reservoir and to pulse water in the drain line and the agitation of the water in the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Diversitech Corporation
    Inventor: Charles Barry Ward
  • Patent number: 8641384
    Abstract: The present invention provides a sump pump control system. The system includes a mounting fixture fabricated from a corrosion resistant material, and an electrical control comprising solid state electrical components supported by the mounting fixture. The sump pump control system also includes a diving bell cover. The diving bell cover has an open bottom, and is dimensioned to cover the electrical components. The diving bell cover is releasably secured to a support surface of the mounting fixture. The electrical control controls the operation of a sump pump. Should water rise to a level of the electrical components due to failure of the sump pump or due to quickly rising water, the diving bell cover will prevent water from contacting the electrical components. A method of removing water from a subterranean vault is also provided herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Memphis Light Gas & Water, division of City of Memphis
    Inventors: Alfred M. Bourell, Jr., Ricky W. Cox, David K. Morton, Roderick C. Truitt, Curtis T. Washington
  • Patent number: 8622981
    Abstract: Apparatus (200) for the application of topical negative pressure therapy to a user of the apparatus (200) is described together with a method for protecting said apparatus (200) when subjected to abnormal stresses, the apparatus (200) comprising a device (202) and a waste canister (204) releasably connected thereto wherein the device (202) and waste canister (204) are connected together by clip means (222), said clip means (222) being subject to failure upon application of abnormal stresses thereby permitting separation of the device (202) and waste canister (204).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Smith & Nephew PLC
    Inventors: Edward Hartwell, Carl Saxby
  • Patent number: 8602744
    Abstract: A condensate pump for an HVAC system includes a reservoir for collecting condensate water, a pump motor connected to an impeller pump for pumping the condensate water out of the reservoir, and a floatless pump controller. The floatless pump controller detects the water level in the reservoir and, based on the water level in the reservoir, controls the operation of the pump motor, and if necessary, sounds an alarm and shuts down the HVAC system. The floatless pump controller may employ an ultrasonic transducer or capacitance sensors to detect the level of condensate water in the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Diversitech Corporation
    Inventor: Charles Barry Ward
  • Publication number: 20130287593
    Abstract: A machine for replacing used transmission fluid in a vehicle with new transmission fluid includes a frame having a housing. The machine includes a pair of service hoses that extend from the machine and connect to the vehicle's transmission fluid system for placing the machine in the fluid flow. A new fluid tank and a used fluid tank are provided. A pump and a manifold are associated with each of the tanks. The pumps provide for the selective withdraw or insertion of fluid into or out of the tanks. A display on the housing presents an operator of the machine with various tasks or options the machine can perform. A processor controls activation of the pumps and other electrical components based on inputs received by the display. Scales are provided under each tank for determining the amount of fluid going into and out of the tanks during the exchange process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventors: MICHAEL J. ERWIN, HAROLD E. ERWIN
  • Patent number: 8568105
    Abstract: A dynamic port that extends from the bottom wall of an oil reservoir that surrounds the lower guide bearing of a reactor coolant pump and is in fluid communication within an oil level gauge. The dynamic port is rotatable into and out of the oil flow path to adjust the dynamic oil level shown by the oil level gauge when the pump is at operating speed to be substantially equal to the static oil level when the motor is at rest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Company LLC
    Inventors: David R. Brady, Christopher Snodgrass, Thomas G. Loebig
  • Patent number: 8550110
    Abstract: Systems for removing water from an area where water is not desired are discussed and provided. The system can include a dam, a water collection system, and a water removal system. The dam can create a waterproof seal so that the dam is configured to define a reservoir, or retention area, capable of holding water. The water collection system can remove substantially all of the water that collects in the retention area and deposit the water in a reservoir when the water collection system is triggered by a first sensor. The water removal system can move the water collected in the reservoir to an area of safe disposal through a hose or drain when triggered by a second sensor. Other aspects, features, and embodiments of the present invention are claimed and described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Robert Mike Trotter
  • Patent number: 8545189
    Abstract: A method and an arrangement for controlling a pump station includes measurement of the surface level of a liquid (465) by means of a sensor (452) and controlling the electric drive (401, 420, 430) of the pump (440) to a predetermined speed of rotation when a specific surface level value has been reached. This predetermined rotation speed value is preferably the rotation speed at which the ratio of the flow rate to the consumed power, i.e. the efficiency, is optimal. The measurement of the surface level and the related data processing for control of the pump are performed in a frequency converter (420) in conjunction with the control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: ABB Oy
    Inventors: Srikanth Venkatachari, Mikael Holmberg