By Float Patents (Class 417/40)
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Publication number: 20100129232Abstract: A float device for a sewage pump is a controlling switch to actuate or stop the sewage pump, wherein the sewage pump is mounted on a bottom inside a sewage tank to process waste. The float device floats along with the arising of liquid level in the sewage tank so that a magnet element inside attract with a corresponding metal part on the controlling switch. On the contrary, when the float device lowers along with the decreasing of liquid level, the magnet element disengages from the metal part to stop the sewage pump. By having float device operated by the magnetic way with few frictional wear, the switch has extended lifespan. Moreover, the float device is convenient in replacement when the float device is malfunctioned.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2008Publication date: May 27, 2010Inventor: Robert M. Keener
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Patent number: 7704050Abstract: The present invention relates to a synchronous pump structure, particularly to an immersion pump (1) equipped with a float control device (3) and comprising a synchronous electric motor (2) with a permanent magnet rotor (8). The pump (1) is so structured that the float (16) of the control device (3) is incorporated in an envelope (11), externally associated with the body (15) of the pump (1). A sensor element (4) of the control device (3) housed in the pump body (15) in correspondence with the float (16) is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2004Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Askoll Holding S.R.L.Inventor: Elio Marioni
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Publication number: 20100089086Abstract: This invention relates to a device for controlling a condensate removal pump, including: a float (102) intended to be placed in a container (20), capable of moving according to the level of condensate in the container, an actuation element (130) driven by the movement of said float (102), wherein said actuation element is configured and mounted so as to act selectively on a first and a second microswitch (110, 120) respectively having a first and a second pushbutton (112, 122) mobile between two positions, so as to define three distinct states: a resting state, in which said pump is stopped, wherein said first pushbutton (112) is in a first position ensuring the stopping of said pump and said section pushbutton (122) is in a second position; an active state, in which said pump is activated, wherein said first pushbutton (112) is in a second position ensuring the implementation of said pump, and said second pushbutton (122) remains in its second position; an alarm state, in which a safety action is activateType: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2009Publication date: April 15, 2010Applicant: SAUERMANN INDUSTRIEInventors: Olivier BADIA, Antoine CHAUVIN, Michel Mesrouze
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Patent number: 7695251Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic driving device (20) for turning on and off a synchronous pump, that is a pump (15) comprising a synchronous electric motor (1) with a permanent-magnet rotor (8), comprising:—at least a static power switch (17) inserted in series between the motor (1) and an AC electric power supply source (Vp); and—a processing unit (16) having at least an input receiving a synchronism signal (V) and a control output connected to said switch (17); characterized in that it is enabled by a signal emitted by a float level sensor (40) and includes an input receiving a signal (a) by a position sensor (21) detecting the rotor (8) polarity and position; the pump turn-on and off being regulated according to the signal emitted by said level sensor (40) and to a measured difference between a critical load angle (8) and a current load angle computed during different working conditions of the pump.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2004Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Askoll Holding S.r.l.Inventor: Elio Marioni
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Patent number: 7614854Abstract: A multichamber tank for motor vehicles comprises two chambers (4, 5) connected via a constricted region (6) located high up in the chambers, a first chamber (4) having a filler neck (2), and a line (13) bridging the constriction forming the connection to a second chamber (5). In order that both chambers are filled at approximately the same speed during filling-up through the filler neck (2), a pump (11) designed for level equalization during filling-up and driven by an electric motor (12) is provided in the line (13), and a level sensor (17, 18) is provided in each of the two chambers (4, 5), the output signals of which sensors are available to a control unit (14) which controls the electric motor (12) of the pump (11).Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2005Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Tesma Motoren-und Getriebetechnick GmbHInventor: Sandor Palvölgyi
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Publication number: 20090246034Abstract: A hydraulic assembly has a pressure medium container which at least partially encloses an electric motor, and a hydraulic pump which is driven by the electric motor using a simple, compact, and quiet design in a manner such that the electric motor is situated in the pressure medium container and is cooled by pressure medium without using the electric motor fan, in that the pressure medium container includes a partition which subdivides a pressure medium container interior at least partially into an intake region and a return region, and which maintains a certain level of pressure medium in the return region, and the electric motor is located in the return region of the pressure medium container.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2009Publication date: October 1, 2009Inventor: Thomas Gellner
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Publication number: 20090226329Abstract: A condensate pump that provides a ventilation system that efficiently expels warm air surrounding a pump motor is disclosed. The pump has a motor-driven fan, a cover that encloses the fan, and a ventilation opening that allows for air to enter through the cover. The cover has an exhaust opening adjacent to the fan and a discharge outlet. The space between the exhaust opening and the discharge outlet defines a throat. A cutwater is adjacent to the exhaust opening for focusing air outward through the throat and expelling it from the cover through the discharge outlet.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2008Publication date: September 10, 2009Applicant: LITTLE GIANT PUMP COMPANYInventor: Jon Currier
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Patent number: 7563082Abstract: A cover assembly for covering a vessel comprising a main cover comprising at least a first outlet opening adapted for connection to a pipe, and a second opening surrounded by a flat region adapted for placement of a gasket; an access cover comprising a flat region adapted for mating with the flat region of the main cover; and provisions for the sealing of at least one cord passing between the main cover and the access cover. In other embodiments, the cover assembly is provided with an engagement feature adapted for engagement with a hook-shaped hanger rod. Sewage basin assemblies are also provided which incorporate these cover assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2005Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: Liberty Pumps Inc.Inventor: Donald M. Pohler
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Publication number: 20090129939Abstract: In an improved pump assembly having a fluid reservoir into which a stationary post extends, a sensor is supported by the post and a floating member is supported for travel between upper and lower portions of the post. A magnet is supported by the floating member, the sensor responding to the position of the magnet as the floating ring member moves along the post. A float retention member is detachably supported by the post to retain the floating member on the post, the floating member having a support ring with a plurality of inwardly extending spring members disposed to grip the end of the post. A heat exchanger is supported for absorbing a portion of the thermal energy created by the pump assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2007Publication date: May 21, 2009Applicant: Little Giant Pump CompanyInventor: Steve Hampton
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Patent number: 7520736Abstract: A cover assembly for covering a vessel comprising a main cover comprising at least a first outlet opening adapted for connection to a pipe, and a second opening surrounded by a flat region adapted for placement of a gasket; an access cover comprising a flat region adapted for mating with the flat region of the main cover; and provisions for the sealing of at least one cord passing between the main cover and the access cover. In other embodiments, the cover assembly is provided with an engagement feature adapted for engagement with a hook-shaped hanger rod. Sewage basin assemblies are also provided which incorporate these cover assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2005Date of Patent: April 21, 2009Assignee: Liberty Pumps Inc.Inventor: Donald M. Pohler
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Patent number: 7513393Abstract: A container system of this invention includes a container for holding a fluid, a follower in the container which moves in the container in response to a change in a level of fluid in the container, and a sensor assembly for sensing the level of fluid in the container. The sensor assembly is especially (albeit not exclusively) suited for viscous fluids.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2006Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: Lincoln Industrial CorporationInventor: Jeffrey M. Kotyk
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Publication number: 20090053073Abstract: A condensate pump for an HVAC system includes a reservoir, a unitary top support plate, and a cover. A pump motor, an impeller pump, a float, and control electronics are mounted on the unitary top support plate. The transition from the cylindrical volute chamber to the tangential output port of the impeller pump has a swept diagonal surface that creates a gradual transition from the cylindrical volute chamber to the tangential output port. The gradual transition minimizes the pulsing. An intake profile with a concave surface extends from the center of the impeller and matches a complementary intake profile extending from the bottom of the reservoir. Vortex inhibiting vanes are molded into the bottom of the reservoir adjacent the central intake port of the impeller pump to break up any induced vortex within the reservoir.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2008Publication date: February 26, 2009Inventors: Charles Barry Ward, Kenneth Bertoli
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Patent number: 7316049Abstract: One version of the portable liquid-evacuation device may include: a container having a top wall, a bottom wall, a sidewall, a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, and an air outlet, with the air outlet being connectable to a remote vacuum source; a pump positioned in the container, with the pump including a pump outlet; and a conduit extending from the pump outlet to the liquid outlet. In this particular version, the device may be free of both an integral vacuum source and a float-activated liquid-inlet closure. In another version, the device may include: a top wall including a liquid outlet; a pump attached to the top wall, with the pump including a pump inlet and a pump outlet; and a conduit extending from the pump outlet to the liquid outlet. In this version, the device may be free of a container sidewall and a container bottom wall.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2003Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: Kaivac, Inc.Inventors: Robert S. Robinson, Sr., Robert G. Robinson, Jr.
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Patent number: 7252482Abstract: An electric motor-driven pump, particularly adapted for pumping condensate from refrigeration and air conditioning systems includes a reservoir body, a reservoir cover supporting an electric motor directly connected to a centrifugal pump impeller at one end of the motor rotor shaft and to a centrifugal cooling air fan at the opposite end of the motor rotor shaft. The motor is mounted on the reservoir cover and a motor cover mounted on the reservoir cover defines cooling air inlet and discharge ports for the flow of cooling air propelled by the fan. Efficient cooling air movement is obtained in a mechanically uncomplicated arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2004Date of Patent: August 7, 2007Assignee: Beckett CorporationInventors: John M. Walker, Hsueh-Hsiung Hsieh
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Patent number: 7131330Abstract: An apparatus for improving the service life of a submersible probe residing in a tank includes a liquid level detector adapted to detect when a liquid in the tank rises to a first level. The first level is above the probe. A controller is coupled to the liquid level detector. The controller is configured to increase at least one of a voltage and a current applied to the probe responsive to the liquid being detected at the first level. The controller is configured to reduce an electrical potential field produced by the probe responsive to the liquid falling below a second level, thereby extending the service life of the probe by reducing the accumulation of foreign matter on the probe when the pump is not activated.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2004Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: Richal CorporationInventor: Richard R. Gurega
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Patent number: 7100632Abstract: A sump liner comprising a liner wall joined with a base member, the liner wall extending about the periphery of the base member, the liner wall comprising a primary reservoir portion and a secondary reservoir portion, with a weir extending from the base member and the inside surface of the liner wall. The weir divides the sump liner interior into a primary reservoir and a secondary reservoir, with a primary pump to remove water from the primary reservoir and a secondary pump to remove water from the secondary reservoir. The primary reservoir receives drainage water through an inlet pipe. The secondary reservoir receives drainage water that flows over the weir in the event the primary pump in the primary reservoir fails, in which case the secondary pump in the secondary reservoir pumps out the water. The weir may have an inverted V-shape. A sump liner and with a vented lid bolted to it to form an airtight seal.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2003Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Inventor: Alden Harwood
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Patent number: 6955158Abstract: In a fuel container (1) for a motor vehicle having a plurality of chambers (2, 4), a suction jet pump (18, 19) with a filling level sensor (11, 12) is arranged in each of the individual chambers (2, 4). A valve (24, 25) is arranged in a propellant line (20, 21) leading to the suction jet pump (18, 19). When a chamber (2, 4) is virtually empty, the supply of fuel to the suction jet pump (18, 19) is disabled and an unnecessary movement of the fuel is thus avoided.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2004Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Bernd Rumpf
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Patent number: 6854479Abstract: A sump liner comprising a liner wall joined with a base member, the liner wall extending about the periphery of the base member, the liner wall comprising a primary reservoir portion and a secondary reservoir portion, with a weir extending from the base member and the inside surface of the liner wall. The weir divides the sump liner interior into a primary reservoir and a secondary reservoir, with a primary pump to remove water from the primary reservoir and a secondary pump to remove water from the secondary reservoir. The primary reservoir receives drainage water through an inlet pipe. The secondary reservoir receives drainage water that flows over the weir in the event the primary pump in the primary reservoir fails, in which case the secondary pump in the secondary reservoir pumps out the water.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2002Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Inventor: Alden Harwood
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Patent number: 6792966Abstract: A fuel transfer apparatus for providing fuel to a vehicle engine from a plurality of fuel tanks. A transfer pump is positioned intermediate a pair of fuel tanks and is operable to transfer fuel therebetween. Fuel is provided to the engine from a first one of the two fuel tanks. Excess fuel is returned to the first one of the two fuel tanks. When the level in the first fuel tank is less than the level in the second fuel tank by a predetermined amount, the transfer pump transfers an amount of fuel from the second fuel tank to the first fuel tank. Fuel level sensors are utilized to monitor the level of fuel in the two fuel tanks and report to a microprocessor which controls the transfer pump. The microprocessor utilized to control the transfer pump may be incorporated into the transfer pump, may be a stand alone microprocessor, or may comprise an existing vehicle circuit board such as, e.g., the electronic control module (ECM). A fuel transfer line interconnects the two tanks and is located above the two tanks.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2002Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: Federal-Mogul World Wide, Inc.Inventor: Richard W. Harvey
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Publication number: 20040161341Abstract: The preferred drinking water pumping system is for receiving and storing drinking water from an outside source and for delivering the drinking water under pressure to a drinking water faucet or the like. A refillable drinking water storage tank provides the drinking water for a water pump that delivers the drinking water to a pressure tank for storing a variable amount of drinking water therein. Use of the drinking water faucet or the like reduces the volume of drinking water in the pressure tank that will be restored by the water pump as needed. The drinking water storage tank includes water level sensors to provide remote indication when the level of drinking water is low and to protect the water pump prior to the drinking water in the drinking water storage tank being expended.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2004Publication date: August 19, 2004Inventor: Thomas J. Kalchthaler
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Patent number: 6767188Abstract: A device for conditioning of fluid to minimize pulses from a pump source. A pump drives fluid from a vented fluid reservoir through a system including a combination of an attenuation tank and one or more orifice. Fluid is pumped into a plenum chamber that supplies fluid in a pulse free flow stream. A pressurized head over the fluid in the plenum chamber allows fluid delivery at a selected pressure. A volume sensor monitors the fluid level within the plenum tank and activates the pump if fluid level falls below a specified level.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2002Date of Patent: July 27, 2004Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and CompanyInventors: David R. Vrane, Pierce Norton
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Patent number: 6755623Abstract: A floating pump assembly including a compact floatation assembly structured to float on a body of water and supporting a flow pump housing having an inlet, outlet and fluid drive assembly being submerged and wherein at least the outlet is oriented in a predetermined, preferably horizontal orientation during operation and activation. A power assembly is supported on the floatation assembly and is drivingly connected to the fluid drive assembly for powered operation thereof. The predetermined orientation of at least the outlet and particularly the direction of discharge of water issuing from the outlet substantially is such as to eliminate or at least minimize the tendency of the floatation device to become disoriented or unstable at least in terms of being increasingly submerged into a deeper position within the body of water upon activation and operation of the floating pump assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Inventor: Eric Thiriez
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Patent number: 6736603Abstract: An oil suction pump includes a push switch, a shaft vertically located below the push switch, and a float arm horizontally located below the shaft. A hooked lower end of the shaft is adapted to detachably engage with a hooked first end of the float arm and thereby holds the shaft in a fixed position when the push switch is depressed. A second end of the float arm is pivotally connected to a float that ascends when the oil sucked into a container connected to the oil suction pump reaches a predetermined level and thereby causes the first end to descend and disengage from the hooked lower end of the shaft, allowing the latter to move upward into an original position and automatically close an air inlet valve of the oil suction pump.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2002Date of Patent: May 18, 2004Inventor: Ching-Tsung Chang
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Patent number: 6729847Abstract: A bilge pump includes an outer housing having an interior wall separating a first cavity and a second cavity, an on/off electrical switch located within the first cavity, and a single-piece float located within the second cavity and having a float body and an actuator arm extending outwardly therefrom, wherein the float operably connects the electrical switch through an aperture in the interior wall, and wherein the float is configured such that the aperture remains above a water line within the second cavity during operation of the pump.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2002Date of Patent: May 4, 2004Assignee: Attwood CorporationInventor: Christopher A. Rossman
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Publication number: 20040018094Abstract: A bilge pump includes an outer housing having an interior wall separating a first cavity and a second cavity, an on/off electrical switch located within the first cavity, and a single-piece float located within the second cavity and having a float body and an actuator arm extending outwardly therefrom, wherein the float operably connects the electrical switch through an aperture in the interior wall, and wherein the float is configured such that the aperture remains above a water line within the second cavity during operation of the pump.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2002Publication date: January 29, 2004Inventor: Christopher A. Rossman
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Patent number: 6682309Abstract: The present invention is a submersible pump system that includes a main housing, which is watertight and contains a submersible pump therein. There is a liquid suction inlet connected to the main housing and adapted for functional connection to a liquid source. This may be a direct pipe connection, or an open intake. There is also a one way check valve functionally connected to the main housing and located downstream from the liquid suction inlet, adapted to permit liquid to flow from the inlet to the main housing and to prevent liquid from oppositely flowing. The submersible pump has electrical power wiring and control wiring connected thereto and extending out of the main housing with a watertight seal. The pump has a submersible pump inlet to pump liquid from the main housing, and a pump outlet directly connected to a liquid flow outlet extending out through the main housing for liquid distribution therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2002Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Inventor: John A. Reid
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Patent number: 6676382Abstract: Motor speed, motor amps, float position and elapsed run time are monitored to determine whether a sump pump is in a normal condition, a jammed condition, an inadequate pumping rate condition, a dry running condition or a stuck float condition. A processor is configured to increase the motor speed in response to an inadequate pumping rate condition, and to rapidly energize the motor clockwise and counterclockwise in response to a jammed condition or a stuck float condition. The processor provides signals to a display for displaying information about the condition that the pump is in. The pump is set up to receive power from either an AC power source or a battery power source. Availability of the AC power source is monitored and the pump is switched to operate from the battery power source when AC power is unavailable.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: Campbell Hausfeld/Scott Fetzer CompanyInventors: Harold Leighton, Philip A. Mayleben, Scott R. Graham, Buford A. Cooper
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Patent number: 6638023Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2002Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Little Giant Pump CompanyInventor: Thomas R. Scott
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Patent number: 6632072Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2001Date of Patent: October 14, 2003Inventors: Brian E. Lipscomb, William Carl Garrison
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Patent number: 6591676Abstract: A liquid level detection device (10), particularly for submersed pumps, characterized in that it comprises means (13, 14) for detecting variation of electric and/or magnetic field in relation to the variation of the level of the liquid; the means are associated with a controller (16) for switching on and off a submersed pump (12).Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2001Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Assignee: Askoll Holding S.r.l.Inventor: Elio Marioni
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Patent number: 6568910Abstract: The present invention generally provides a micropump that utilizes electroosmotic pumping of fluid in one channel or region to generate a pressure based flow of material in a connected channel, where the connected channel has substantially no electroosmotic flow generated. Such pumps have a variety of applications, and are particularly useful in those situations where the application for which the pump is to be used prohibits the application of electric fields to the channel in which fluid flow is desired, or where pressure based flow is particularly desirable.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2002Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: Caliper Technologies Corp.Inventor: John Wallace Parce
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Patent number: 6565325Abstract: A pump control system incorporates a programmed processor and respond to input from multiple floats. The programmed processor can respond to detected float failures in real time by reassigning control, lag, or lead functions from a failing float to one of the remaining functioning floats. Pump alternating functionality can be provided if any two of a plurality of four or more floats continue to function as expected.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2001Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Assignee: Metropolitan Industries, Inc.Inventor: Anton Belehradek
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Publication number: 20030091440Abstract: A bilge pump having a mounting member adapted to be mounted to a vessel and a base movably engageable with the mounting member and positionable in at least two positions relative to the mounting member. A housing is releasably coupled to the base and defines a cavity for receiving a motor. A locking ring is engageable with the motor and the housing to secure the motor in the cavity while allowing the motor to be movable with respect to the housing. The cavity in the housing communicates with an outlet portion defining a socket. An outlet nozzle having an outlet end is movably received in the socket so that the outlet end can be moved relative to the housing. These features can be employed individually or in combination to make the bilge pump highly adaptable, thereby facilitating installation.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 12, 2001Publication date: May 15, 2003Inventors: Anil B. Patel, Brian A. Babson
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Patent number: 6558138Abstract: A manual/pneumatic oil pumping device including a housing having an upper cover equipped with a manual mechanism and a pneumatic air sucking mechanism. A closing means is disposed in the upper cover corresponding to the pneumatic air sucking mechanism. When the closing means is in an opened state, the oil reserving space communicates with the pneumatic air sucking mechanism so that the pneumatic air sucking mechanism can suck out the air in the oil reserving space and thus pump the oil. When the closing means is in a closed state, the oil reserving space does not communicate with the pneumatic air sucking mechanism and a user can manually pump the oil.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Inventor: Tien Tsai Tseng
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Publication number: 20030049134Abstract: Motor speed, motor amps, float position and elapsed run time are monitored to determine whether a sump pump is in a normal condition, a jammed condition, an inadequate pumping rate condition, a dry running condition or a stuck float condition. A processor is configured to increase the motor speed in response to an inadequate pumping rate condition, and to rapidly energize the motor clockwise and counterclockwise in response to a jammed condition or a stuck float condition. The processor provides signals to a display for displaying information about the condition that the pump is in. The pump is set up to receive power from either an AC power source or a battery power source. Availability of the AC power source is monitored and the pump is switched to operate from the battery power source when AC power is unavailable.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2002Publication date: March 13, 2003Inventors: Harold Leighton, Philip A. Mayleben, Scott R. Graham, Buford A. Cooper
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Patent number: 6527518Abstract: A water-powered sump pump that utilizes a relatively higher pressure water ported through a self-reversing valve to a reversible stroke power cylinder having a movable member mechanically coupled to a pumping chamber for movement of a movable pumping member in the pumping chamber, movement of the movable pumping member forcing sump water to a discharge. The volumes of the power cylinder and pumping chamber are different such that relatively high pressure, low volume flow to the power cylinder results in relatively high volume, low pressure flow from the sump pumping chamber. The discharge from the power cylinder is backflow prevented with respect to the discharge from the sump pumping chamber.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Inventor: Michael H. Ostrowski
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Patent number: 6499961Abstract: A liquid level controller for a device having a liquid reservoir includes a control board and a reservoir assembly. The reservoir assembly is disposed within the reservoir and includes a liquid level sensor, which is electrically connected to the control circuit. The control board includes a control circuit and a pump. The control circuit has a control circuit and a resistive power supply to power the control circuit. The control circuit controls the pump in response to signals from the level sensor and includes a CMOS logic gate and a MOSFET transistor to switch the pump. The control circuit further includes a second resistive power supply connected to a relay which controls an alarm. The second power supply is activated by a transistor responsive to an alarm signal from the level sensor, and powers the relay only when the alarm signal is present.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Tecumseh Products CompanyInventors: Arnold G. Wyatt, Robert L. Terry
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Patent number: 6494226Abstract: A fuel transfer apparatus for providing fuel to a vehicle engine from a plurality of fuel tanks. A transfer pump is positioned intermediate a pair of fuel tanks and is operable to transfer fuel therebetween. Fuel is provided to the engine from a first one of the two fuel tanks. Excess fuel is returned to the first one of the two fuel tanks. When the level in the first fuel tank is less than the level in the second fuel tank by a predetermined amount, the transfer pump transfers an amount of fuel from the second fuel tank to the first fuel tank. Fuel level sensors are utilized to monitor the level of fuel in the two fuel tanks and report to a microprocessor which controls the transfer pump. The microprocessor utilized to control the transfer pump may be incorporated into the transfer pump, may be a stand alone microprocessor, or may comprise an existing vehicle circuit board such as, e.g., the electronic control module (ECM).Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2001Date of Patent: December 17, 2002Assignee: Federal-Mogul World-Wide, Inc.Inventors: Larry J. Tipton, Richard W. Harvey
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Publication number: 20020176782Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 21, 2002Publication date: November 28, 2002Inventors: Scott K. Batchelder, Richard J. Hauss, James T. Burrill
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Patent number: 6474952Abstract: A sump pump motor switch assembly for a sump pump including a motor casing and an end shield, includes a switch assembly and a housing mounted to the end shield. A cam actuator is connected to the housing and a sump pump actuation switch is mounted with the cam actuator. A motor actuation switch is also mounted with the cam actuator body. The sump actuation switch and the motor actuation switch are snap action switches that are simultaneously actuated by the cam actuator. The switch assembly includes a snap fitting assembly configured to fit into a receiving retainer within the motor casing.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 1999Date of Patent: November 5, 2002Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: L. Edwin Fisher, Marc D. Pape, Mark A. Reiter
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Patent number: 6464465Abstract: A level control device is adapted for use in a wastewater pump station. The level control device cooperates with a discharge pump to control the volume of wastewater contained in the pump station. The level control device includes a buoyant housing for being located in the pump station, and capable of floating on a surface of the wastewater. A control switch is adapted for being operatively connected to the motor starter of the discharge pump to activate the pump when the housing reaches a predetermined elevation in the pump station due to an increasing level of wastewater. An anti-accumulation surface of the housing acts to resist accumulation of grease and other waste.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2001Date of Patent: October 15, 2002Inventor: Glenn P. House
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Patent number: 6461114Abstract: A pedestal sump pump includes a motor with a housing and a water-level-response system attached to the motor. The water-level-response system includes a connecting rod with upper and lower limit stops, a float, and a switch assembly mounted partially within the motor housing. The assembly includes a switch housing and a lever pivotably mounted to the switch housing such that the lever can be toggled between on and off positions. The lever includes an aperture in the first end of the lever and a cam surface on the second end of the lever. The assembly also includes a retainer clip removably attached to the housing to retaining the lever in place, the clip including a spring tab to force the lever into one of the on and off positions, and a microswitch removably mounted in the switch housing.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: A. O. Smith CorporationInventor: Chih M. Lin
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Patent number: 6443715Abstract: A pump impeller having a central hub and circumferentially-spaced bottom vanes extending in a direction outwardly of the hub. An annular shroud surrounds the hub in outwardly-spaced relationship thereto and provides an impeller liquid inlet passage around the hub leading to the vanes. A permanent magnet motor rotor is mounted on the annular shroud. The rotor is used in a sump pump having an upper cylindrical filter that encloses a float switch for operating the pump motor.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2000Date of Patent: September 3, 2002Assignee: Campbell Hausfeld/Scott Fetzer CompanyInventors: Philip A. Mayleben, Scott R. Graham, Buford A. Cooper
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Publication number: 20020114702Abstract: A level control device is adapted for use in a wastewater pump station. The level control device cooperates with a discharge pump to control the volume of wastewater contained in the pump station. The level control device includes a buoyant housing for being located in the pump station, and capable of floating on a surface of the wastewater. A control switch is adapted for being operatively connected to the motor starter of the discharge pump to activate the pump when the housing reaches a predetermined elevation in the pump station due to an increasing level of wastewater. An anti-accumulation surface of the housing acts to resist accumulation of grease and other waste.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2001Publication date: August 22, 2002Inventor: Glenn P. House
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Patent number: 6435837Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2000Date of Patent: August 20, 2002Assignee: Fico Transpar, S.A.Inventors: Miguel Mota Lopez, Juan Jesus Elvira Peralta
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Publication number: 20020102162Abstract: A pump control system incorporates a programmed processor and respond to input from multiple floats. The programmed processor can respond to detected float failures in real time by reassigning control, lag, or lead functions from a failing float to one of the remaining functioning floats. Pump alternating functionality can be provided if any two of a plurality of four or more floats continue to function as expected.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2001Publication date: August 1, 2002Inventor: Anton Belehradek
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Publication number: 20020076331Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2002Publication date: June 20, 2002Inventors: Lee H. Eckert, Kenneth P. Frey, Scott R. Graham
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Patent number: 6390780Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1998Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Assignee: Rule Industries, Inc.Inventors: Scott K. Batchelder, Richard J. Hauss, James T. Burrill
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Publication number: 20020054818Abstract: A supply system for supplying liquid, such as water, from a lower level to a higher level wherein a supply pipe has one end at the lower level and another end connected to a closed container substantially full of water, in use. A pump is immersed in the water in the container with an inlet to draw water from the container and pump it through a supply pipe to supply water to the higher level whereby, in use, the container substantially fills with water which is drawn into the pump and then out through the outlet. Pump apparatus is also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2001Publication date: May 9, 2002Inventor: Wayde Harry Odd
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Patent number: 6375430Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2000Date of Patent: April 23, 2002Assignee: Campbell Hausfeld/Scott Fetzer CompanyInventors: Lee H. Eckert, Kenneth P. Frey, Scott R. Graham