Abstract: A pump arrangement for windshield washer systems of motor vehicles includes a pump housing (30) and an impeller (32) within the pump housing (30) for pumping a liquid. The pump housing (30) includes a liquid inlet (36), and a liquid outlet (38) through which the impeller (32) delivers the liquid (5) out of the pump housing (30). The pump arrangement also includes a sensor housing (40) that is connected to the pump housing (30). The sensor housing (40) includes a sensor arrangement (42, 42′) for responding to a changing liquid level (H,L) in the sensor housing (40). The sensor housing (40) has a liquid inlet (44) and a liquid outlet (46). The liquid outlet (46) of the sensor housing (40) and the liquid inlet (36) of the pump housing (30) are co-axially arranged with respect to each other.

Abstract: A method for controlling the operation of one or more electrically-operated pumps (11, 12) to pump a liquid from a well or sump (10) which, in use, receives a substantially continuous inflow of said liquid, characterized in that the method includes the step of starting or stopping each pump in relation to the approach of a change of tariff for the electricity supplied for the operation of each said pump (11, 12).

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for regulating the pressure in an enclosure (1) that is to contain processed gas for manufacturing semiconductor components or micro- or nano-technology devices, the enclosure being connected by pipework (2) to a pump unit (3) comprising a dry mechanical primary pump (4) and at least one secondary pump (5). According to the invention, the system further comprises a speed controller (6) controlling simultaneously the speeds of rotation of the dry mechanical primary pump (4) and of said at least one secondary pump (5).

Abstract: A system and methods for automatically adjusting pump operating parameters for at least one pump to accommodate solids encountered during a pumping operation. The output signal of a level sensor may be monitored so as to detect and account for variations therein. The power draw of the pump may also be monitored so as to detect and account for the presence of solids.

Abstract: A pneumatic pump control system for sequentially switching on and off an electrically operated pump disposed in a waste water liquid storage tank The pneumatic pump control system comprises a pneumatic pressure accumulator that is disposed within the liquid storage tank at a predetermined level. The pneumatic pressure accumulator is a dome-type that defines an interior air chamber for containing air, and a lower opening disposed at an elevation that represents a zero reference level within the tank. The lower opening is in communication with the liquids in the liquid storage tank when the level of liquid is as high as the lower opening. A pressure transducer is operatively connected to the pneumatic pressure accumulator for communication with the interior air chamber to measure the differential air pressure between the air within the interior air chamber and the upper layer of air within the liquid storage tank.

Abstract: A liquid pump and controller with separate pump activation and deactivation mechanisms that are both closed detector devices is provided. The pump activation mechanism includes a float device that activates a pump motor when water within a housing of the pump reaches a high water level. The pump deactivation mechanism includes a sensor that detects the load on the pump motor and deactivates it when the sensed load indicates that the water within the pump housing has reached a low water level.

Abstract: A sump pump has a float operated alarm switch mounted on the top end of the pump housing for activating an alarm when water rises above a normal operating level. The alarm is in a remote enclosure with the pump power plug so that plugging in the unit automatically positions the alarm in a desirable location to be heard. The power cord and alarm switch wire extend through a flexible corrugated tube that is attached to the pump housing and the alarm enclosure by strain relief connections that do not compressively crush the tube.

Abstract: A dual moisture alarm system for use in submersible pumps, including a pump housing, a motor for running the pump which includes a shaft attached to an impeller. Secured to and located within the pump housing are a series of power control and sensing cords. Attached to these cords are both a lower liquid sensing probe and an upper liquid sensing probe which can sense the presence of fluids, both in a lower sealing chamber located below the motor and an upper chamber located above the motor. The upper liquid sensing probe senses the presence of fluids within the upper chamber before the power terminals also located in the upper chamber are contacted by the fluids.

Abstract: A water distributing installation controller includes water pumps for supplying clear water from a filtration plant to a distributing reservoir, a level gauge for measuring the water level of the distributing reservoir, a first flow meter for measuring the water supply directed thereto, a second flow meter for measuring the water delivery directed to a distributing area, a pumps-number control part for controlling the number of pumps operated, and a short-term demand prediction part for providing short-term demand prediction data on the water delivery to the pumps-number control part at the request thereof.

Abstract: Systems and related methods pump fluid through a pump having a stroke volume. The systems and methods employ gravimetric control measures to monitor fluid flow through the pump. An actuator interacts with the pump during a stroke interval (TStroke) to pump fluid through the pump. The systems and methods couple a receptacle to the pump, to either dispense fluid into the pump or to receive fluid from the pump. The systems and methods detect changes in weight of the receptacle over a sample time period. The systems and methods achieve a desired flow rate (QDesired) by deriving an actual flow rate (QActual) by sensing changes in weight of the receptacle over the sample time period, taking into account the density of the fluid, and adjusting the stroke interval based upon QActual so that QDesired is achieved.

Abstract: A liquid pump system for providing liquid to a tank includes a variable-speed motor drive and a control circuit coupling the variable-speed motor drive to a power source. The control circuit has a switch that may be disposed in a state according to the amount of liquid in the tank. The control circuit provides for supplying power to the variable-speed motor drive from the power source regardless of the state of the switch. The control circuit may include a transmitter that generates a high frequency signal representative of the state of the switch. In that embodiment, a detector coupled to the variable-speed motor drive receives the high frequency signal to control operation of the liquid pump system.

Abstract: Hydrostatic pressure, which builds up from gravity and forces water into a basement through the floor or lower walls, is relieved by sensing the water under the floor and pumping out the water to a drain or area away from the house. Thus, the water is prevented from ever entering the basement, and the basement remains dry. The invention senses and removes water simply by means of tubing and sensing wires inserted through one or more small holes which are easily drilled in an existing basement floor, for example by using an impulse drill with a carbide tipped bit. Both the sensing of the water level and the pumping out of the sub-floor water are accomplished through these small holes drilled through the basement floor in trouble areas, eliminating the need for gutters, channels or sumps.

Abstract: Lift pump guard for a pump operable by an electrical motor. The lift pump guard monitors variable parameters and actuates a relay to electrically terminate operation of the pump motor when the pump is dry running. Also a method of protecting a pump from dry running compares a measured parameter to a predetermined value and terminates operation based on the comparison.

Abstract: The present invention is a means and method for providing constant output flow from a fluid pump. The invention does this by controlling the radial speed of the pump motor during discreet segments of the motor's 360° angular/radial path through a revolution of the pump. The electric pump motor is controlled throughout the 360° radial path by employing a control means for controlling the speed of actuation of the radial steps of a stepper motor throughout the 360° path of rotation of the stepper motor. Control means for controlling the speed of the discreet steps of the stepper motor comprises at least a memory means, a counting means and an amplification means.

Abstract: A method for totalizing the volume of liquid pumped to or from a vessel by a set of pumps. The method comprises the following steps: Calculating a running time for each of the pumps. Determining a first rate of change of volume when each of the pumps is turned on and a second rate of change a predetermined period after each of the pumps is turned on. Determining a draw down rate for each of the pumps and calculating the volume pumped by each pump based on the running time and draw down rate. Summing the volume pumped by each of the pumps to give a total volume pumped for the vessel over the operating time for the pumps. The totalizing method is incorporated with a control system for controlling the pumping of liquid to or from a vessel using one or more pumps. The control system comprises a level sensor, an actuator for each of the pumps, and a controller. The controller is programmed to issue control signals to the actuators and execute process steps for totalizing the volume of liquid pumped in the vessel.

Abstract: A method for control of the drive means for a reciprocating piston pump delivering liquid to a spring loaded piston liquid accumulator providing high volume compliance whereby the accumulator liquid volume is controlled within narrow limits by continuous control of power to the pump drive motor. The accumulator achieves high volume compliance by arranging the kinematics of a main spring loading the accumulator piston to have a negative spring rate equal to the sum of all other positive spring rates produced by a second spring used to adjust the accumulator pressure, by the diaphragm (piston), and by a flexure support for a sensor lever. This sensor lever moves with the accumulator diaphragm to actuate an optical sensor producing an electric signal indicative of small changes in liquid volume in the accumulator.

Abstract: An improved dual-stage pump system is provided for the accurate pumping and filtering of viscous fluids. Two hydraulically activated pumps are provided in series with a filter and reservoir disposed in-line between the two pumps. The reservoir acts as a source bottle for the second pump and allows the first pump to pump the viscous fluid through the filter at a rate independent of the dispensing rate of the second pump. By operating the first pump at a rate independent of the second pump, back pressure at the filter is avoided. Each hydraulically activated diaphragm pump is equipped with an improved diaphragm that is pre-formed to the geometries of the process fluid cavity thereby eliminating any inaccuracies in the operation of the pumps due to expansion of retraction of the diaphragm during pump operation.

Abstract: An automatic shut-down system for wet/dry glycol pump thereby providing a pump protection system located in the fluid circuit between the reboiler and glycol contactor elements of a gas dehydration system. The system includes a filter or filter system, if one is not already provided within the existing dehydration system, a vertical tank having an external gas operated float valve with controls for remotely pilot operating a cut-off valve located in the wet glycol line between the contactor and the glycol pump. Therefore, in operation, when the dry glycol level in the vertical tanks drops below a set level, the float valve blocks gas pressure applied to the cut-off valve maintaining it in the open condition, thus allowing it to close and thereby blocking the flow of wet glycol to the pump, thus effectively shutting down the pump and the system. Once the imbalance is corrected, the system automatically resumes operation.

Abstract: In the inlet pipe (7) of the compressor element (1) is provided a pneumatically controlled throttle valve (9), whereas the motor (3) of the compressor element (1) has a pneumatically controlled speed regulator (6). This speed regulator (6) and the throttle valve (9) are both connected to the compressed air receiver (14) via a compressed air pipe (26) and a control device (18). This control device (18) contains an electropneumatic valve (19) in the compressed air pipe (26) which is coupled to an electronic control (20), whereas a pressure sensor (21) is connected to the compressed air receiver (14) and a pressure sensor (22) is erected in the compressed air pipe (26) between the valve (19) and the speed regulator (6) and the throttle valve (9).

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

Abstract: In an air compressor a collapsible air storage device is provided to accumulate high pressure air for output, the collapsible air storage device including a collapsible bag defining an air storage chamber, and a rubber cover layer covered on the collapsible bag to keep the air storage chamber in an air tight condition, the rubber cover layer shrinking and imparting a compressive force to the collapsible bag after stoppage of the air compressor, causing the collapsible bag to be collapsed.

Abstract: A well pump storage and delivery assembly includes at least one collecting tank coupled to at least one source of water being derived from an underground well having a well pump therein. The collecting tank has an upper water level measuring member capable of detecting and measuring an upper level of water collected within the collecting tank and a lower water level measuring member capable of detecting and measuring a lower level of water collected within the collecting tank. A pressurization pump is connected to the collecting tank and is capable of receiving water therefrom. The pressurization pump is connected to a pressurized storage tank.

Abstract: A "drinking water supply for automobile" comprising a main unit box body, a water take-up rack and a water storage bottle, wherein inside the main unit box body is the installation of an electric heating water tank, a control circuit and a two-way water pump, and inside the electric heating water tank is the installation of an electric heater in connection with the control circuit, a cooler and a water level sensor, said control circuit is in connection with three control switches and a sensor on the water take-up rack; between said electric heating water tank and the water storage bottle is the connection of a ventilating pipe and a water sucking pipe, on the water sucking pipe is the installation of a two-way water pump, on the water sucking pipe is the connection of a water output pipe, the sensor is located at an appropriate place at the outlet of the water output pipe; based on the above construction, the user may preset the control switches for hot water, ice water or untreated water, thereby activating

Abstract: A pump installation used to maintain liquid level in a tank by pumping down liquid introduced into the tank with rotation of an impeller about a vertical axis features an air purging flow defined by axial openings through the pump impeller and an annular clearance space between the impeller drive and the pump housing cover, the space disposed above the impeller axial openings. A support sleeve surrounding the impeller drive and secured to the pump motor and tank top has openings at the bottom thereof which sets up a flushing liquid flow to eliminate solids forced up through the clearance space and into the sleeve interior.

Abstract: A dynamic displacement sensor for detecting an out-of-fluid condition in a liquid delivery system detects an increased amplitude of pump motion of a reciprocating air pump and provides an output signal upon detecting the increased amplitude motion. The detector includes a spring-mass combination supported within a housing such that the mass is movable along a defined axis of the housing, with the spring applying a restoring force to the mass when the mass moves away from its static position. The detector is attached to the pump with its defined axis aligned parallel with the pump axis. A sensor within the housing is triggered to change state when the mass is displaced by pump motion of a predetermined amplitude and frequency, thereby providing is an output signal indicating an out-of-fluid condition.

Abstract: A conveying system comprising a pump whose power source is an unstable electric power supply, such as a solar cell; a first supply pipe for conveying liquid from an intake to the pump; a second supply pipe for conveying the liquid from the pump to a discharge opening; a liquid storage tank provided at a position which is below the discharge opening and above the pump; a third supply pipe branching from the second supply pipe, for conveying the liquid to the liquid storage tank; a fourth supply pipe connected between the liquid storage tank and the first supply pipe; a first valve, provided between the branching point of the first and fourth supply pipes and the intake, for opening and closing the first supply pipe; a second valve, provided between the branching point of the second and third supply pipes and the discharge opening, for opening and closing the second supply pipe; a third valve for opening and closing the third supply pipe; and a fourth valve for opening and closing the fourth supply pipe.

Abstract: A method for control of the drive means for a reciprocating piston pump delivering liquid to a spring loaded piston liquid accumulator providing high volume compliance whereby the accumulator liquid volume is controlled within narrow limits by continuous control of power to the pump drive motor. The accumulator achieves high volume compliance by arranging the kinematics of a main spring loading the accumulator piston to have a negative spring rate equal to the sum of all other positive spring rates produced by a second spring used to adjust the accumulator pressure, by the diaphragm (piston), and by a flexure support for a sensor lever. This sensor lever moves with the accumulator diaphragm to actuate an optical sensor producing an electric signal indicative of small changes in liquid volume in the accumulator.

Abstract: A liquid supply system including a diaphragm pump, a novel liquid accumulator providing exceptionally high volume compliance, and a control of accumulator volume within narrow limits by continuous control of the pump motor. The accumulator achieves high volume compliance by arranging the kinematics of a main spring loading the accumulator to have a negative spring rate equal to the sum of all other positive spring rates produced by a second spring used to adjust the accumulator pressure, by the diaphragm, and by a pivot for a sensor lever. This lever moves with the diaphragm to actuate an optical sensor producing an signal indicative of small changes in liquid volume in the accumulator. This signal continuously modulates the power to the motor driving the pump so as to maintain the accumulator volume lose to a datum valve. This close control of liquid volume in a high compliance accumulator provides substantially pulse-free constant pressure liquid delivery from a pulsatile pump.

Abstract: A main pump unit which includes a main pump and a standby pump in a tank is placed on the basement floor, not in a sump. The tank is sealed with the floor level drain, preventing reverse sewer water from flowing onto the floor. The pump (main) turns on before the sewer water from overflowing the appliances, such as toilet and bathtub. The system includes an arrangement for using the customary fresh water supply for testing the pump. It also includes means for ventilating the tank to the exterior.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting the presence of a ground leakage path in an electric motor system including an alternating current (ac) electric motor coupled for receiving electric power from a switching inverter of the type having, for each phase of the motor, a pair of serially connected electronic switching devices connected between relatively positive and negative direct current (dc) voltage buses with the switching devices being alternately gated into and out of conduction for providing switched electric power to the motor. The inverter includes a current detector for detecting current in the relatively negative voltage bus. The method comprises initially applying a gating pulse each time the motor is energized to the switching device of each phase connected to the negative voltage bus and identifying a ground leakage path when such gating pulse produces current at the current detector.

Abstract: A vacuum sewage handling assembly particularly for boats and recreational vehicles or caravans has a minimum of components because the conventional vacuum and holding tanks have been combined into a single substantially unreinforced, non-cylindrical, all plastic tank. The tank has a contoured, convoluted, discontinuous surface (e.g. formed by grooves, channels, and other discontinuities) so that it has no continuous flat surface area of more than about 80 square inches. The combined vacuum and holding tank may mount a vacuum pump, and optionally mounts a sewage discharge pump. The tank preferably has a generally parallelepiped configuration, and an interior volume of between about 45-65 liters, has a maximum vacuum level of about 26 cm of mercury, and is connected to other conventional portions of a vehicle toilet system, including outlets penetrating the exterior of the vehicle. The tank may have wheels and a handle.

Abstract: A cover for a sewer basin with a pump is provided with upper and lower members. The bowl-like lower member has a central cavity which may be closed in a water-tight fashion by placement of the upper member onto the lower member in a frictional fit. A flanged surface on the lower member allows it to be sealed in water-tight relationship over a maintenance entry into the basin. A control panel for the pump is mounted in the central cavity. Access may be had to the control panel without a need to open the basin, and access may be had to the basin interior without a need for opening the central cavity or the control panel housed therein.

Abstract: A liquid supply system for flow cytometry apparatus including a diaphragm pump, a novel liquid accumulator providing exceptionally high volume compliance, and a control of accumulator volume within narrow limits by continuous control of power to the pump motor. The accumulator achieves high volume compliance by arranging the kinematics of a main spring loading the accumulator to have a negative spring rate equal to the sum of all other positive spring rates produces by a second spring used to adjust the accumulator pressure, by the diaphragm, and by a flexure pivot support for a sensor lever. This sensor lever moves with the accumulator diaphragm to actuate an optical sensor producing an electric signal indicative of small changes in liquid volume in the accumulator. This signal in turn continuously modulates the power to the motor driving the pump so as to maintain the accumulator liquid volume close to a datum value even during a portion of the pump delivery cycle.

Abstract: A power control system in combination with a three-phase AC motor coupled to a water pump enables the operation of the motor at speeds up to 10,800 RPM so as to provide improved pumping capacity with a smaller motor and smaller pump. The control system supplies AC power to the motor with a frequency of the power being increased at a first high rate up to a frequency at which pump pressure is about equal to a value at which water is being pumped from the outlet pipe of the pump. Thereafter, AC power frequency is increased to the second, slower rate up to a maximum operating frequency of the motor. During the time that frequency of the AC power is being increased, motor current is continuously monitored and compared to a maximum allowable current. If monitored current exceeds allowable current, the frequency of operation is decreased until monitored current is less than the allowable current. Thereafter, frequency is again increased so long as monitored current is less than allowable current.

Abstract: A photoresist storage and supply device. The device includes a control unit for generating a number of on/off signals. A number of gas supply valves are open to let gas pass according to the on/off signals. A number of photoresist solution storage vessels store photoresist solution and receive the gas from a corresponding gas supply valve. A buffer vessel receives the photoresist solution, under pressure of the gas, from a selected photoresist solution storage vessel. A liquid level sensor mounted on the buffer vessel detects the solution level in the buffer vessel and generates a control signal when the photoresist solution level in the buffer vessel is below a certain threshold. A gas exhaust valve is coupled to the control unit, and expels gas from inside the buffer vessel according to an on/off signal.

Abstract: An automatic draining arrangement without position limitation includes a base plate, a water storage tank, a water tank mounting frame, a detecting control circuitry, a pump and a case, in which the water storage tank is installed on the base plate through the detecting control circuitry and pump, and also the case is provide on the base plate for protection, isolation of the interior mechanism. A drain tube is attached to the pump and extends outside of the arrangement. The detecting control circuitry controls water draining operation for arrangement that generate waste water, when the waste water reach certain level, the water would automatically drain out. This arrangement can eliminate problems caused by other draining method and the problem of location, plus the fact that this arrangement can set to different switches to drain out water either by pump or by siphon action which can save electricity power.

Abstract: A motion sensor for connecting to the housing of a gasoline dispenser which is used to dispense gasoline to vehicles. The motion sensor includes components to detect motion, such as that caused by a vehicle striking the dispenser housing, and provides a signal to a controller which cuts off electrical power through an electrical supply line to electrical components of the dispenser. With power disconnected from electrical components of the dispenser, potential arcing of electricity to those electrical components when they become damaged, or potential arcing when the electrical supply line becomes damaged can be prevented to potentially prevent a resulting fire or explosion.

Abstract: Pumps, for example, bilge pumps, comprise a pump housing including an inlet and an outlet, a motor and an impeller assembly coupled to the motor for pumping liquid which passes through the outlet. The motor is advantageously cooled by pumped liquid while being protected from the pumped liquid. Further, the motor is turned on and off in response to actual operating conditions, thereby increasing pump life and reducing overall power consumption. The pump provides contoured facing surfaces which provide a dynamically efficient flow path for the pumped liquid. In addition, a switch housing is preferably provided to allow liquid to contact an activator assembly which turns the motor on.

Abstract: The operation of an oil well pumping unit control system (20, 200) is governed by a computerized automated control unit (88) that receives flow rate measurements from a Coriolis flow meter (28). The control unit causes production from a beam pumping unit (22) to cease when measurements from the Coriolis flow meter indicate a decline in the pump efficiency. The decline in pump efficiency indicates that a production fluid level (136) in the production tubing (108) has fallen below the uppermost point of travel for the plunger (122). Production from the well is, accordingly, shut-in to afford the reservoir sufficient time to build the pressure and corresponding fluid level that is required to recommence production operations.

Abstract: A solenoid valve for a water purification system. The solenoid valve contains a fluid valve which can move between an opened position and a closed position, and a coil which moves the valve to the open position when a first voltage is supplied to the coil and maintains the valve in the open position as a second voltage is supplied to the coil. The coil is coupled to a control circuit which initially supplies the first voltage to the coil when the valve is to be opened, and then reduces the first voltage to the second voltage after the valve is in the open position.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus are provided for stopping a motor-driven pressure generating pump of a system for coating workpieces with atomized liquid coating material in case of an empty material reservoir or a leakage in a material supply from a material reservoir to the pump or from the pump to an atomizer. The pressure and/or the volume flow at the pump outlet and/or the speed of the pump piston or a value dependent thereon are continually measured. The measured values are then converted to electric signals to be input to an electronic analyzer and analyzed therein. If, during operation, the pressure and/or the volume flow drops below a predetermined value and/or the speed of the piston exceeds a predetermined value, the electrically controlled driving connection between motor and pump or the power supply to the pump motor will be cut-off by output signals from the electronic analyzer.

Abstract: An air compressor driven by a permanent split capacitor electric motor of the type having substantially the same value capacitance for starting as for operating and which has insufficient starting torque for starting when the air compressor is loaded with pressurized air. The pressurized air output from the air compressor is delivered through an air line to a compressed air storage tank. A check valve between the air line and the tank permits air flow from the air line to the tank while preventing a reverse air flow. A vent valve is connected to vent air pressure from the air line when the motor is stopped to unload the air compressor. When the motor is restarted, closure of the vent valve is delayed until the output torque from the motor exceeds the torque requirements of the compressor when loaded. Vent valve closure may be delayed for a predetermined me or until the motor reaches a predetermined high operating speed or until the air flow from the unloaded air compressor reaches a predetermined level.

Abstract: A sewage handling assembly particularly for boats and recreational vehicles with a minimum of components. The waste discharge of a toilet is connected to an inlet for a combined vacuum and holding tank which mounts a vacuum pump, and optionally mounts a sewage discharge pump. A sewage discharge conduit, which may be connected to the optional sewage discharge pump, is connected to a first outlet from the tank, in turn connected to a dip tube terminating in an open end just above the tank bottom. A second outlet from the tank is connected to the vacuum pump (in turn connected to a gas conduit with an end termination penetrating an exterior partition of the boat or RV), and an upwardly extending gas tube inside the tank, having an opening near the interior top of the tank, is connected to the second outlet. The tank is controlled so that a gas volume of about 2 and 1/2-4 gallons is always maintained in the tank, with a vacuum level of between about 8-10 inches of mercury.

Abstract: A solenoid valve for a water purification system. The solenoid valve contains a fluid valve which can move between an opened position and a closed position, and a coil which moves the valve to the open position when a first voltage is supplied to the coil and maintains the valve in the open position as a second voltage is supplied to the coil. The coil is coupled to a control circuit which initially supplies the first voltage to the coil when the valve is to be opened, and then reduces the first voltage to the second voltage after the valve is in the open position.

Abstract: Reservoir flow or surge control systems frequently have large installed lifting or pumping capacity to deal with variations in either inflow or outflow, or both, and may form a part of a larger system of many such reservoirs. Taken together these reservoirs may have significant storage capacity. In operation such systems are large consumers of electricity. Electricity is often priced differently at different times of day. This invention employs this storage capacity to permit energy consumption to be shifted, at least in part, from periods of high electricity prices to periods of low electricity prices. This is done by permitting a greater amount of material to collect during periods of expensive electricity, and then removing the material to a lower level during periods of less expensive electricity, or the reverse, depending on the nature of the system and the material in question. Either an `On-Off` or flow rate control method of pump control may be used.

Abstract: An automatic pump control for a pump such as a marine vessel bilge pump uses solid state components and has no moving parts. A first integrated logic device activates an FET transistor and completes a circuit which turns the pump on when the water reaches a predetermined high level and in association with an interconnected second integrated logic device keeps the pump on until the water subsequently reaches a predetermined low level. The control can be manually operated and includes circuitry to activate a high water alarm. The switch housing is molded in a manner which permits mounting directly to the pump.

Abstract: In a turbo, pump according to the present invention, blades 3e and a shroud 3f are continuously formed with a boss 3c of a turbine wheel 3, a meridian plane configuration of the shroud 3f is formed as an concave arcing rotatable surface. A boss shroud 3f.sub.1 is formed substantially parallel to the axis of rotation O. A portion 3e.sub.2 of a blade outlet edge 3e.sub.1 is smoothly continuous to the boss shroud 3f.sub.1 and largely projects downstream. A portion 3e.sub.3 of the blade outlet edge 3e.sub.1 is formed substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation O. The blade outlet edge 3e.sub.1 is formed with a smooth arc-like curve projecting convexly downstream between the portion 3e.sub.3 and the portion 3e.sub.2. An angle of the blade outlet edge 3e.sub.1 is set to an angle of substantially 0.degree. at the portion 3e.sub.2 of the blade outlet edge 3e.sub.1 and to substantially the conventional degree of angle at the portion 3e.sub.3 of the blade outlet edge 3e.sub.1.

Abstract: A control system for absorption chillers which comprises a device for measuring operating state data concerning components of the main assembly of the chiller and including the liquid level of a high temperature generator and the degree of opening of a gas valve, and a fuzzy control circuit for calculating the deviation of the liquid level from a target value based on the measured operating state data, predicting a variation in the liquid level from the deviation and another item of the operating state data and calculating a control input as to the inverter frequency of an absorbent pump based on the result of prediction, whereby even when a great disturbance occurs, the liquid level of the generator can be controlled with high responsiveness to minimize the variation of the liquid level.

Abstract: A sewage grinder pump system for use in moving sewage, having a vertically oriented cylindrical pump motor housing, a bottom plate affixed to and closing the pump motor housing, a motor supported by the bottom plate within the pump motor housing, the motor having a shaft extending through an opening in the bottom plate, a grinder pump supported to a lower end of the bottom plate and connected to the motor shaft, a closure member affixed to the pump motor housing top end and having a level detector receiving portion providing a liquid level detector opening therein externally of the pump motor housing, an elongated liquid level detector having an upper end received within the liquid level detector opening, and a circuit connecting the liquid level detector to control the motor to thereby drive the grinder pump in response to detected liquid level.

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