Abstract: An automated coordinate measuring system comprising a measuring arm used for acquisition of geometry data that incorporates an exoskeletal structure resilient to physical perturbations including thermal changes and vibrations which may affect coordinate data acquisition. The system may be adapted to a portable platform allowing for convenient positioning and alignment of the measuring arm in a wide variety of environments.

Abstract: A wireless tank level monitoring system is provided. The system includes a transmitter that is located in close proximity to the storage tank. The transmitter is coupled to a remote-ready tank level gauge, which provides a ratio-metric voltage output proportional to the liquid volume inside the tank. The transmitter periodically monitors the output from the level gauge and transmits the information to a base station located remotely from the storage tank. The base station displays the tank level numerically in percent full, graphically with a bar chart, or both. A conspicuous visual indication is provided by the base station when the tank level drops below a predetermined set point. In battery powered applications, the base station also reads and provides a visual indication of a low battery condition for both the transmitter and base station.

Abstract: A environmental sensor network having at least two environmental sensor units and a central display unit. Each sensor unit includes a sensor adapted to measure a condition and a transmitter adapted to operate in an “activation” mode in which the transmitter transmits a predefined sequence and a sensor ID and a “data” mode in which the transmitter transmits data based on the measurement. The central display unit includes a receiver adapted to receive a transmission from the two environmental sensors, a memory device, and a processor adapted to selectively operate in an “add” mode in which the processor records the presence of an environment sensor unit in the memory device upon the receipt of the predefined sequence and the sensor ID, and a “display” mode in which the processor outputs information based on the measurement.

Abstract: A diagnostic system and method includes a fuel level sensor that senses a fuel level in a fuel tank and a sensor diagnostic module that monitors a fuel transfer mechanism for a time period, that calculates a change in the fuel level, and that evaluates operation of the first fuel level sensor based on the change and the predetermined period.

Abstract: A diagnostic system and method for detecting failures in a fuel system of a vehicle includes a fuel level monitoring module that determines a first change in a first fuel level of a first fuel tank based on data received from a first fuel level sensor and determines a second change in a second fuel level of a second fuel tank based on data received from a second fuel level sensor. A sensor diagnosing module evaluates operation of the second fuel level sensor based on the first change in the first fuel level.

Abstract: A method of calibrating a fluid-level measurement system is provided. A first response of the system is recorded when the system's sensor(s) is (are) not in contact with a fluid of interest. A second response of the system is recorded when the system's sensor(s) is (are) fully immersed in the fluid of interest. Using the first and second responses, a plurality of expected responses of the system's sensor(s) is (are) generated for a corresponding plurality of levels of immersion of the sensor(s) in the fluid of interest.

Abstract: A method for measuring the fill level of a medium in a container by applying the radar principle, whereby a measuring signal is generated and transmitted in the direction of the medium. A retroreflected portion of the measuring signal is captured and the fill level is determined as a function of the runtime of the measuring signal. The measuring signal is transmitted into multiple mutually different regions and the retroreflected portions of the measuring signal is received at multiple receiving points. In this fashion, it is possible to at least approximate the surface structure of the medium in the container.

Abstract: An expansion tank which comprises a tank having a predetermined volume capacity; a flexible diaphragm in the tank, partitioning tank volume into a liquid-containing portion for holding liquid and a gas-containing portion for holding a gas under a pressure that defines a normal pressurized gas volume when the liquid-containing portion holds a predetermined liquid volume; and a proximity sensor suspended in the gas-containing portion of the tank and adapted to energize an alarm signal when volume of the gas-containing portion is reduced a predetermined amount as indicated by proximity of the diaphragm.

Abstract: A continuous volume detection system for a flexible venous reservoir in a cardiopulmonary bypass circuit is described. The volume detection system is based on a pressure measurement that is manipulated via application of fluid mechanics. Next-generation cardiopulmonary bypass system controllers may use this data to control the volume contained in the flexible venous reservoir.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for estimating the height of a fluid contained in a mixing tank. A dynamic control device which operates as an external observer is used for controlling and monitoring the estimation. This estimate of the height is then compared to the measured fluid height in the mixing tank to obtain an estimation of the height error. The mixing tank has one or more input volumetric rates which are known along with the output volumetric rates. This height error is used to drive the estimation to the nominal height of the mixing tank through the use of a Proportional Integral PI type controller. By setting the PI gains, the noise and oscillations of the mixing tank can be removed from the height estimation while tracking the nominal value of the height. The methods and the systems can also be implemented for estimating the volume or quantity of fluid contained in a mixing tank.

Abstract: A method of indicating level of material in a vessel includes coupling a probe to the vessel such that capacitance at the probe varies as a function of material level in the vessel. A periodic electrical signal at fixed frequency is applied to the probe such that operating characteristics of the signal vary as a function of capacitance at the probe. Material level is detected as a function of the operating characteristics of the signal. During a calibration mode of operation, the fixed frequency of the periodic electrical signal is varied to optimize sensitivity at the probe. In a preferred embodiment of the disclosure, this is carried out by applying the periodic electrical signal to the probe over a selected frequency range during the calibration mode of operation and identifying a frequency within this range at which the probe is most sensitive to changes in capacitance at the probe. The fixed frequency during a measurement mode of operation thereafter is set to this identified frequency.

Abstract: The invention is a method to detect a weak interface signal in a guided wave level measurement device. The device includes a waveguide, a signal generator and a signal receiver, the signal generator and signal receiver being operationally connected to the waveguide. The method includes the steps of transmitting an outgoing signal; monitoring the signal received at the signal receiver to detect a first signal level that exceeds or equals a first threshold level (TH1) and if such a signal level is detected, continue monitoring the received signal to detect a second signal level that exceeds or equals TH1. Finally, if a second signal level in excess of TH1 is detected, continue monitoring the received signal to detect a third signal level that exceeds or equals a second threshold level TH2.

Abstract: An expansion tank which comprises a tank having a predetermined volume capacity; an expandable diaphragm in the tank, partitioning tank volume into a liquid-containing portion for holding liquid and a gas-containing portion for holding a gas under a pressure that defines a normal pressurized gas volume when the liquid-containing portion holds a predetermined liquid volume; and a proximity sensor mounted to the tank at the gas-containing portion thereof and adapted to emit an alarm signal when volume of the gas-containing portion is reduced.

Abstract: A radar level gauge system for determining the filling level of a filling material in a tank is disclosed. The system comprises a transmitter for transmitting measuring signals towards the surface of the filling material; a receiver for receiving echo signals from the tank; processing circuitry for determining the filling level of the tank based on said echo signal and adapted to compare said determined filling level with at least one preset threshold value and to produce an alarm signal in dependence of said threshold value; and a storage means for storing the preset threshold value, wherein said threshold value in said storage means is replaceable and/or adjustable. The alarm signal could indicate high level and/or overfill. The possibility of adjusting/replacing the threshold values enables adjustment of the alarm levels when the system is already installed. A corresponding method of operation is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of calibrating a level sensor installed in an empty tank. In the tank, the level sensor includes a float that is allowed to rest against a first stop, such as the tank bottom or tank top. This position of the float is stored as a first level, such as a minimum level, in memory of sensor electronics of the level sensor. The float is thereafter moved, such as under the force of gravity by inverting the tank, against a second stop such as the tank top or the tank bottom. This position of the float is stored as a second level, such as a maximum level.

Abstract: A seal mechanism, apparatus and method are suggested for confining a chemical reaction in a reaction vessel that is accessible through a self-sealing diaphragm. A movable plunger is reversibly operable between a retracted position where the diaphragm is accessible for injection and/or extraction of reagents, and an operational position wherein the plunger is controlled to apply an external pressure in direct contact with the self-sealing diaphragm.

Abstract: Apparatus for indicating the oil level in a central heating oil tank comprises a battery powered monitoring unit (1) for mounting on the oil tank which determines the oil level by an ultrasonic signal transmitter/receiver (18). A first microprocessor (14) in the monitoring unit (1) determines the oil level from the ultrasonic transmitter/receiver (18) and operates a primary transmitter (12) for transmitting a radio signal which includes data indicative of the oil level. A remotely mounted mains electricity powered receiving unit (3) comprises a primary radio receiver (15) for receiving the transmitted signal, and a second microprocessor (16) in the receiving unit (3) controls the operation of a visual display unit (10) for graphically displaying the oil level. The monitoring unit (1) and the receiving unit (3) are operable in a teaching mode initially on power-up of the receiving unit (3) during which the monitoring unit (1) teaches the receiving unit (3) its address.

Abstract: In order to check endoscope channels, a predetermined quantity of liquid is led, at a predetermined pressure, through the channel that is to be checked, and the period of time for this is measured and evaluated. The predetermined quantity of liquid is determined via the volume of a liquid container whose outlet is capable of being connected to the channel that is to be checked. A compressed air source subjects the liquid in the container to a predetermined pressure. A sensor registers whether the liquid level in the container has dropped below a predefined value. A control unit measures the period of time within which the predetermined volume of liquid has flowed through the channel that is to be checked.

Abstract: Described is a method for detecting and/or for monitoring the level of a medium stored in a vessel and in particular to a method for diagnosing the functionality of the electromechanical oscillation unit of a vibration level gauge. An electromechanical transducer of the electromechanical oscillation unit of a vibration level gauge is supplied with an electric wave signal. The frequency of which is beyond the resonance frequency range of the electromechanical oscillation unit and is thus not adapted to actuate the oscillatory portion as for example an oscillating rod probe or tuning fork, so that the electric wave signal is converted into mechanical oscillations without actuating the oscillatory portion. Subsequently, the converted mechanical oscillations will be recorded using the at least one electromechanical transducer of the electromechanical oscillation unit, which reconverts the mechanical oscillations into an electric wave signal.

Abstract: A liquid detection device attached on a liquid container for detecting a liquid consumption status of the liquid contained in the liquid container, the liquid detection device including a vibrating section symmetrical about a center thereof, and at least one electrode electrically connecting with said vibrating section.

Abstract: The mounting structure for mounting the piezo-electric device (106) used to detect the consumption condition of the liquid in the liquid container (1) to the liquid container (1), having the receiving portion (363) to which the piezo-electric device (106) is to be mounted and the mount portion (363) to be mounted to the liquid container (1). The mounting structure can appropriately mount a piezo-electric device (106) for detecting the consumption condition of a liquid in a liquid container (1) to the liquid container (1).

Abstract: An enclosure for a wastewater fluid level sensing and control system is provided. The enclosure for a control panel of the system may comprise a housing and a non-opaque door. Audible and/or visible alarm devices may be mounted within an interior space formed when the door is closed with respect to the housing. The control panel may be configured to turn on the audible and/or visible alarms responsive to signals from a fluid level sensing device within a reservoir. The control panel may include a touch sensor pad mounted to an inner wall of the housing. Changes in capacitance in the pad as a result of a hand being placed adjacent the sensor on the outside of the housing may be operative to cause the control panel to silence the alarms.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus and method for calibrating a dispensing system. A dispenser dispenses a controlled quantity of material into a container for receiving material. A system, preferably a vision system comprising an image capturing device and an imaging system, is adapted to capture an image of a physical dimension of a quantity of dispensed material in a given time. The physical dimension may be a width of a top surface area, a height or a cross-sectional area of the dispensed material. A calibrating system is adapted to calculate a volume of the quantity of material based upon said physical dimension.

Abstract: A method for controlling liquid delivery in a processing chamber. The method includes generating an analog input (AI) signal proportional to a process variable and calculating an analog output (AO) signal based on a setpoint and a deadband. The setpoint is a target value of the process variable and the deadband is an allowable tolerance around the setpoint that determines when the control logic is activated to control the process variable. The method further includes transmitting the AO signal to a control device and adjusting the process variable proportional to the value of the AO signal.

Abstract: A method for carrying out operating tests of vibration level switches for liquids or solid bulk material or mixtures thereof is provided, whereby a vibration resonator (1) of a level detection sensor is excited by an oscillation exciting feedback circuit to oscillate, whereby at least one excitation parameter of a plurality of signal processing blocks (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) of the feedback circuit is varied, and the resulting oscillation change is compared by a microprocessor (14) to datasets comprising data of corresponding oscillation changes of a failure free system. Moreover, a vibration level switch for measuring the level in containers for carrying out the inventive method is provided.

Abstract: An apparatus for improving the procedure for quantifying the volume of liquid dispensed by a liquid-dispensing mechanism of an analytical instrument. The apparatus of this invention comprises (a) at least one weigh cup; (b) at least one standard mass; (c) at least one transducer assembly to convert a value of weight to an electrical response; and (d) at least one electronic circuit for converting the electrical response to a measurement of volume. This invention provides a method for calibrating readings of the volume of liquid dispensed by a liquid-dispensing mechanism of an analytical instruments so that absolute measurements of the volume of liquid dispensed can be obtained.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of dosing pre-set quantities of gas, wherein the addition of known quantities of gas is required. The apparatus is designed to dosify gases in variable quantities, with temperature correction. The apparatus and the method is mainly applied to the gasification of containers used to transport foodstuffs, which must be kept at a controlled environment in order to better preserve them.

Abstract: An indicator for displaying either low liquid level or satisfactory liquid level conditions within a tank includes a sensor for detecting the liquid level conditions, a photodetector for detecting an ambient dark condition, a pair of indicator lights for indicating either the low liquid level or satisfactory liquid level conditions, and electrical circuitry operable to illuminate one of the indicator lights upon detection of the ambient dark condition by the photodetector and detection of either the low liquid level condition or satisfactory liquid level condition by the sensor.

Abstract: Method and arrangement for accommodating indirect ascertainment of fill-characteristics of fluid tanks on marine vessels. The invention includes providing an experientially-based mapping of volume characteristics of a fluid tank positioned on a marine vessel that are correlated with respect to measurable fluid surface positions within the fluid tank. In consideration of this volume characteristic mapping, fluid fill condition information is output for operator use based on quantification of a parameter other than sensed fluid level in the fluid tank. While it is contemplated that the other parameter may be any characteristic that readily reads back to the volume characteristic mapping, it is particularly advantageous, and a preferred embodiment of the invention, that the other parameter be a volumetric quantification of fluid consumed out of the tank that can be compared to an earlier ascertained tank volume.

Abstract: When a predetermined diagnosis beginning condition is satisfied, a conversion value converted from a signal from a fuel level sensor is compared with a predetermined value, and a detection of a fluctuation is counted in accordance with the comparison. When a fluctuation detection duration exceeds a predetermined period and a fluctuation detection counter value exceeds a first predetermined number, a noisy failure occurrence is counted and a noisy failure of the fuel level sensor is warned of in the case that the noisy failure counter value exceeds the second predetermined number.

Abstract: A method of ink level determination for multiple ink chambers includes the steps of determining a first estimated amount of a first ink in a first ink chamber; determining a second estimated amount of a second ink in a second ink chamber; measuring an amount of the second ink contained in the second ink chamber; determining an actual ink loss for the second ink chamber by finding a difference between the amount of the second ink measured in the second ink chamber and the second estimated amount of the second ink in the second ink chamber; and modifying the first estimated amount of the first ink in the first ink chamber using the actual ink loss for the second ink chamber to form a compensated first ink amount.

Abstract: A bubble detector utilizes an ultrasonic transducer to sample bubbles as they pass the transducer. The envelope of the return signal is analyzed to determine the volume of each sampled bubble. If the total volume of bubbles sampled within a certain period of time exceeds a desired maximum volume, the bubble detector may initiate a system shut down. A bubble detector can be evaluated or calibrated by introducing bubbles into a conduit, detecting the bubbles introduced into the conduit using visual inspection or a bubble detector of known resolution and comparing the results with the examination of a bubble detector under evaluation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for detecting a differential pressure or for correcting a pressure value detected in the fluid on the basis of a pressure of a surrounding medium, wherein at a first point in time the pressure of the surrounding medium is detected and at a later, second point in time the pressure of the fluid is detected, and the pressure value detected in the fluid is corrected on the basis of the pressure of the surrounding medium. The invention furthermore relates to a pump system with a level sensor in which this method is applied, as well as to the use of a pressure sensor in such a pump system.

Abstract: A wireless soil moisture meter network includes a central display unit and a plurality of remote sensor units. Each sensor unit uses a probe to measure moisture content in soil, and uses a wireless transmitter to transmit the measurement through a wireless channel to the central display unit. The central display unit receives and displays the measurement in a format selectable by a user. The user may add to or remove from the network a sensor unit using a user interface of the central display unit.

Abstract: A gauge is disclosed for indicating a level of a liquid in a tank including a display device and a control unit coupled thereto. The display device includes multiple light-emitting elements. The control unit receives a liquid level signal, measures a magnitude of the liquid level signal, and activates a number of the light-emitting elements dependent upon the magnitude. In one embodiment the control unit receives a reset signal and performs a calibration routine in response. The gauge may include a housing and a cap portion attached to the housing. The display device and the control unit may be positioned within the housing. The gauge may include conveying means (e.g., an array of light pipes) for conveying light emitted by each of the light-emitting elements through an outer side surface of the cap portion. A method is described for indicating a level of a liquid in a tank.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting a stuck or malfunctioning fuel tank level sensor calculates an estimated fuel tank level sensor value and compares the estimated sensor value with the actual sensor value. Upper and lower threshold values may also be determined along with the estimated value. If the actual sensor value falls outside the threshold values, the sensor is considered faulty and an error signal is set in the system. The system also compares the actual sensor value with a reference sensor value to detect whether the fault is due to a stuck sensor or due to a different type of sensor malfunction.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for measuring the volume of a liquid in a fuel tank in a vehicle subject to varying external forces caused by movement or changes in the roll and pitch angles of the vehicle wherein the tank is mounted to the vehicle and subject to forces along the yaw axis of the vehicle. One or more tank load cells provides an output proportionally representing the load thereon. The load cells are placed between a portion of the tank and a portion of a reference surface of the vehicle and are sensitive along an axis that is substantially normal to the mounting surface and generally parallel to the yaw axis of the vehicle. A processor executes a derived relationship between the load cell output and the volume of fuel in the tank so as to convert the output signal from the load cell into output information representative of the volume of the fuel in the tank.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for automatically setting a threshold for a point level device without having a user select whether a point level element is covered or uncovered. A first and second value is measured from a point level element. Whether the point level element is covered or uncovered is determined based on whether the second measured value has increased or decreased with respect to the first measured value. A threshold value is determined based on at least one of the first and second measured values.

Abstract: The present invention provides a highly universal out-of-liquid sensor that allows an out-of-liquid condition to be accurately detected for a long time, and provides a liquid supply device using the same.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and apparatus for accurately controlling the quantity of material dispensed from dispensing systems. In one aspect of the present invention, a dispensing system includes a calibration system, which collects and measures an amount of material dispensed during a calibration routine. The calibration dispensing pattern and the amount of material dispensed from the dispensing system during the calibration routine are representative of an actual dispensing pattern. The measured amount of material collected during the calibration routine is compared with a target quantity. The dispensing system is adjusted if the difference between the quantity of collected material and the target quantity is greater that a predetermined tolerance.

Abstract: Method and arrangement for accommodating indirect ascertainment of fill-characteristics of fluid tanks on marine vessels. The invention includes providing an experientially-based mapping of volume characteristics of a fluid tank positioned on a marine vessel that are correlated with respect to measurable fluid surface positions within the fluid tank. In consideration of this volume characteristic mapping, fluid fill condition information is output for operator use based on quantification of a parameter other than sensed fluid level in the fluid tank. While it is contemplated that the other parameter may be any characteristic that readily reads back to the volume characteristic mapping, it is particularly advantageous, and a preferred embodiment of the invention, that the other parameter be a volumetric quantification of fluid consumed out of the tank that can be compared to an earlier ascertained tank volume.

Abstract: A liquid detection device attached on a liquid container for detecting a liquid consumption status of the liquid contained in the liquid container, the liquid detection device including a vibrating section symmetrical about a center thereof, and at least one electrode electrically connecting with said vibrating section.

Abstract: A device for measuring a volume of liquid drug. The device includes a first chamber containing liquid drug, a measurement chamber in liquid communication with the first chamber, and a measurement assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining the filling level of a product in a container with a transmission unit which generates high-frequency signals and emits them at a predetermined pulse repetition frequency in the direction of the surface of the filled product. The signals are reflected by the surface of the filled product and are received by a receiving unit. A delay circuit transforms the high-frequency signals/reflected signals into low-frequency signals in accordance with a predetermined translation factor and with an evaluation unit which determines the filling level of the product in the container on the basis of the delay time of the signals. The delay circuit includes: a transmission oscillator; a sampling oscillator; a digital sampling circuit; and a closed-loop/open-loop control unit.

Abstract: A liquid-quantity monitoring apparatus includes: a piezoelectric device having a vibrating part capable of being exposed at least partly to a liquid-containing space, the piezoelectric device being capable of vibrating the vibrating part by a given drive signal and of generating a signal representing back electromotive force generated by vibration of the vibrating part; and a liquid-quantity determining unit for determining a quantity of liquid remaining in the liquid-containing space, to which the vibrating part is exposed, based on a resonance frequency of a residual vibration signal output from the piezoelectric device due to a residual vibration of the vibrating part after the vibrating part has been vibrated by the drive signal.

Abstract: The fuel gage of the present invention uses a combination of (i) one or more load cells or fuel level measuring devices, plus in some cases other sensors which measure the pitch or roll angle of the vehicle or the fuel density, to approximately measure the quantity of the fuel in the tank and (ii) a processor and algorithm, which may be a look-up table or formulae, to correct for the inaccuracies arising from the pitch and roll angles of the vehicle, other external forces or from variations in fuel density. Although several weighing systems are disclosed for illustrative purposes, the invention applies to any method of making an approximate measurement of the fuel quantity (weight or volume) and then using analytical techniques to improve on the measurement.

Abstract: An improved plunger for fluid dispensing cartridges used in automated dispensing systems. The plunger helps control the reflection of ultrasonic signals used to sense the position of the plunger as it moves within the cartridge tube. The plunger has a convex bottom, ink-facing surface and a top surface comprising one or more flat, horizontal surfaces. In the preferred embodiment, the horizontal surfaces are concentric steps.

Abstract: A digital conversion adapter for magnetically coupled level meters includes a first rotatable magnet located adjacent a second rotatable magnet of a level meter. The first rotatable magnet is operable to rotate in response to rotation of the second rotatable magnet. The second rotatable magnet is operable to rotate in response to changes of a liquid surface level. An encoded disc is mechanically coupled with the first rotatable magnet and operable to rotate in response to rotation of the first rotatable magnet. A light sensor array operable to monitor a position of the encoded disc, with respect to the light sensor array, by reading transmitted light which passes through the encoded disc, is also provided.

Abstract: A control system for controlling a variable of a device by an end element is disclosed. The control system has as its input a magnetostrictive position sensing probe for measuring the value of the variable of the device at time intervals and a digital controller reading the value from the magnetostrictive position sensing probe and having an output and means for calculating control output from the updated value of the variable during the time interval. The digital controller is close coupled to the magnetostrictive position sensing probe to permit time intervals that are very short, such as 500 microseconds to 1 millisecond.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting a stuck or malfunctioning fuel tank level sensor calculates an estimated fuel tank level sensor value and compares the estimated sensor value with the actual sensor value. Upper and lower threshold values may also be determined along with the estimated value. If the actual sensor value falls outside the threshold values, the sensor is considered faulty and an error signal is set in the system. The system also compares the actual sensor value with a reference sensor value to detect whether the fault is due to a stuck sensor or due to a different type of sensor malfunction.