Abstract: A method is provided for obtaining a product sample from a vacuum vessel by using a system including a first valve arrangement, a second valve arrangement and a sample receiver connected to the first valve arrangement and the second valve arrangement. The method includes opening the first valve arrangement to provide fluid communication between an upper volume of the vacuum vessel and the sample receiver, opening the second valve arrangement to provide fluid communication between a lower volume of the vacuum vessel and the sample receiver, closing the first valve arrangement and the second valve arrangement, opening the first valve arrangement to provide fluid communication between surrounding atmosphere and the sample receiver, and opening the second valve arrangement to collect the product sample.

Abstract: A brushless resolver includes a rotor having a one-phase excitation coil and a stator having two-phase detection coils. The rotor is mounted to a shaft of a motor to detect a rotation angle of the motor. An induction coil is located around the shaft. The induction coil is connected to the excitation coil. Electromotive force induced in the induction coil by a change of magnetic flux of the motor, which passes through the shaft, is used as an excitation signal supplied to the excitation coil.

Abstract: A method is provided for determining the weight of an agricultural bale that compensates for un-level terrain such as hillsides. The method uses an empty baler tare weight and a full baler weight to determine a raw bale weight. The cosine of the slope upon which the baler sits is then calculated based upon the empty baler weight as it sits and the empty baler tare weight. The cosine of the angle of slope and raw bale weight are then used to determine an actual bale weight. Further steps are provided for compensating in the tare weight of the baler for the weight of wrapping material and/or preservative consumed in the formation of each bale.

Abstract: A magnetic level indicating system includes a chamber for fluidic coupling to a process vessel. Material level in the vessel equalizes with material level in the chamber. A magnetic float in the chamber rises and falls with the material level in the chamber. A magnet actuated visual indicator is mounted to the chamber for indicating level of the magnet in the chamber and thus material level in the vessel. The indicator comprises an elongate transparent tubular housing defining an interior space open at opposite ends. An indicator assembly is mounted in the housing interior space and responsive to movement of the float and visible through the housing to indicate material level in the chamber. An end cap is received in each of the opposite ends of the tubular housing and a seal member is disposed between each end cap and the tubular housing.

Abstract: A method of encapsulating a liquid level sensor device within a protective monolithic block through over-molding a printed circuit board assembly supporting a plurality of electronic components and an external sensor that includes a pair of spaced apart sensor members extending from the protective monolithic block to sense the accumulation of condensate to a predetermined level within a collection reservoir from a condensate producing source within a polyamide adhesive.

Abstract: An control apparatus for an automatic transmission includes: a failure shift stage setting section configured to set, to the target shift stage, a shift stage which can be attained in a state in which the one of the solenoids judged that the failure is generated is not energized; and a failure neutral state through section configured to control the solenoids at a predetermined vehicle speed or over so that the automatic transmission is brought to a neutral state, when the target shift stage is a shift stage at which the vehicle speed is suddenly decreased when the solenoids are controlled so that the automatic transmission attains the target shift stage, and to control the solenoids below the predetermined vehicle speed so that the automatic transmission attains the target shift stage.

Abstract: Filling level indicator having an explosion-proof housing comprising a glass and a metallic frame, wherein the glass is fused into the frame.

Abstract: A liquid separator with at least one flow passageway is used to detect and remove the presence of entrained liquids from natural gas during spot sampling procedures prior to analysis of the sample by a gas chromatograph. In one embodiment, the at least one flow passageway directs at least a portion of the gas flow to impinge upon the inside surface of a sight glass and swirl around in a chamber which may cause droplets of liquid to coalesce on the inside of the sight glass and may cause a fog to form inside the chamber, all of which make it easier to see the existence of liquids in the natural gas. The at least one flow passageway is less expensive to fabricate that some prior art flow directing elements.

Abstract: A sight glass apparatus providing visual information concerning the presence of absence of liquid in a refrigeration system has a sight glass with a pair of clear glass bodies secure to a housing having a chamber for the liquid. The bodies have angled prismatic surfaces. One body includes a convex lenses that directs light to a colored member that reflects a colored toroid image when the chamber is full of liquid. A moisture sensing element is mounted on the sight glass to identify the presence of water in refrigeration and air conditioning systems.

Abstract: Filling level indicator having an explosion-proof housing comprising a glass and a metallic frame, wherein the glass is fused into the frame.

Abstract: A pipe joint assembly including a transparent quill; an outer quill having at least a first view port, and having at least a first outwardly extending pipe coupling thread which extends longitudinally along and helically about the outer quill, the transparent quill being slidably received by the outer quill; a pair of baffles; and baffle mounting helical threads interconnecting the baffles and the outer quill, the baffle mounting helical threads positioning the baffle so that they extend radially inward from the outer quill, the baffle mounting helical threads further positioning the baffles for resisting longitudinal sliding and counter-sliding motions of the transparent quill.

Abstract: A one-piece molded polymeric sight gauge shield with internal cylindrical bore and method for making same are disclosed, along with a liquid-containing urn including same. The shield is molded by mating first and second mold portions about first and second spaced-apart cores to define: (i) a first annular void about the first core; and, (ii) a second annular void about the second core. The first and second mold portions respectively comprise first and second stand-up portions that first and second sidewall voids between themselves and the mating mold portion. First and second end portions of a gauge shield member are molded by filling the first and second voids, while the first and second sidewalls of the gauge shield member are molded by filling the first and second sidewall voids. The molding operation is a single-axis straight-pull molding method.

Abstract: An armored sight gauge assembly of the type having a sight tube that is placed between first and second spaced apart fittings to show a liquid level comprising an elongated main body positioned between and permanently connected to the first and second fittings. The main body incorporates a flanged U-shaped frame member to which there is removably affixed a transparent sight tube shield. A sight tube assembly substantially surrounded by the flanged U-shaped frame member on three sides and is insertably captured by the first and second fittings. A valve assembly and ball check shutoff is incorporated within the internal portion of each of the first and second fittings as is a misalignment union which is removably attached to each fitting.

Abstract: In a detecting apparatus, a resolver generates signals whose magnitudes vary periodically in accordance with a positional change of a fixed element side rotating shaft, which is a base for rotation of a rotator and whose position is offset when force of a component parallel to a rotation plane is applied thereto, and in accordance with a rotational state of the tire. An R/D converter generates pulses whose periods correspond to a rotational angle of the rotator and to positional offset of the rotating shaft. From the pulses, a computer detects a characteristic amount which varies in accordance with the positional offset of the shaft. On the basis of the detected amount and a relationship which is determined in advance on the basis of stiffness of the shaft and the amount, the computer detects a moment applied to the shaft, and computes a force generated at the tire.

Abstract: An improved fluid level verification apparatus for use on liquid filled containers and configured to reduce inherent mechanical stresses on the inspection tube and resist leakage due to environmental, chemical, thermal or mechanical expansion cycles by using a protective shield member to encase the inspection sight member, and, also, a method for permanently sealing the fluid level detection apparatus.

Abstract: A one-piece molded polymeric sight gauge shield with internal cylindrical bore and method for making same are disclosed, along with a liquid-containing urn including same. The shield is molded by mating first and second mold portions about first and second spaced-apart cores to define: (i) a first annular void about the first core; and, (ii) a second annular void about the second core. The first and second mold portions respectively comprise first and second stand-up portions that first and second sidewall voids between themselves and the mating mold portion. First and second end portions of a gauge shield member are molded by filling the first and second voids, while the first and second sidewalls of the gauge shield member are molded by filling the first and second sidewall voids. The molding operation is a single-axis straight-pull molding method.

Abstract: A gauge includes a translucent tube assembly having metallic tubular end segments. The end segments are endwise embedded within the ends of the translucent tube and permit dispensing with packing when joined to shut off valves at the ends of the tube assembly. The shut off valves are in communication with vertically spaced apart ports in a liquid storage tank. Liquid level in the tube assembly corresponds to the level liquid in the storage tank.

Abstract: A redundant level measuring system comprises a chamber for fluidic coupling to a process vessel whereby material level in the vessel equalizes with material level in the chamber. A float including a magnet in the chamber rises and falls with material level in the chamber. A magnet actuated visual indicator is mounted to the chamber for indicating level of the magnet in the chamber. A measurement instrument includes a probe and a measurement circuit. The instrument is mounted atop the chamber with the probe extending downwardly into the chamber. The measurement circuit measures a characteristic of the probe representing level of the material in the chamber. A shield in the chamber isolate the float from the probe.

Abstract: A graduated fluid measuring device is provided which aids in measuring the amount of liquid remaining in a large tank. A long, clear, rigid plastic tube is provided that is approximately 16 feet in total length. At least 14 feet of the tube would be marked in ⅛ inch increments. At the opposite end of the tube is a pivoting valve. The invention replaces and improves on the conventional method of “sticking” a tank that uses a wooden stick by operating on the principle of vacuum similar in nature to what occurs when a finger is placed over the opening of a straw and then removing the straw from the glass of liquid.

Abstract: The invention provides a sightglass assembly for viewing the interior of a vessel, such as a reaction vessel for chemical or biochemical reactions, and is adapted to be welded to a vessel wall. The sightglass assembly comprises a window disc fused to a metal frame having a flange extending radially therefrom. The assembly is set into an appropriately sized opening in the vessel wall and the outer perimeter of the flange is welded to the vessel wall. An annular groove in the flange, surrounding the frame and window disc, absorbs stresses created by the heat of welding and thus protects the integrity of the entire unit. When installed, the sightglass assembly and inner face of the tank wall provide an easily cleanable smooth continuous surface, free of recesses and crevasses where bacteria can collect and grow or product from previous batches can accumulate and cause contamination.

Abstract: A water based level measuring system including a water containing container with a base portion, a bottom and an upright defining chamber for containing water. The water containing chamber has a lower portion with an access opening communicating with the water and having an upper end portion. A measuring indica mechanism is operably linked to the water containing container. The measuring indica mechanism has a housing with a front element and a back element with the front element having a retaining recess for a moveable marked indicator element. The back element of the measuring indica mechanism is configured having a pair of retaining grooves for receiving and retaining a corresponding pair of retaining edges in the front element of the measuring indica mechanism. A tube connects the access opening of the fluid containing container and the measuring indica mechanism.

Abstract: A sight gauge assembly for an urn sight gauge includes an elongated extruded sight gauge shield. The shield has a longitudinal axis and a generally U-shaped cross section defining the shield to have a sight gauge receiving recess extending along its entire length. The recess is defined by an arcuate inner surface terminated on opposite ends by first and second edges, respectively, so that an open sight gauge viewing region is provided between the edges. A tubular sight gauge is placed in the recess of the extruded sight gauge shield, and the arcuate inner surface of the recess conforms to a portion of a curved outer surface of the tubular sight gauge. An end cap is fixedly secured to a first end of the sight gauge shield and the assembly includes means for operatively connecting it to an associated faucet.

Abstract: A safety liquid level sight gauge with a transparent sight tube coaxially disposed between mounting blocks and concentrically within a transparent shield tube which is protected by a metal sleeve with a sliding inspection window for observing the liquid level therein. The gauge includes a sight tube breakage shut off system, and a leak shut off system. The breakage shut off system includes the transparent sight tube coaxially aligned between a pair of check valves within each mounting block. A check valve push rod is concentrically disposed and supported within the bore of the sight tube and urges both check valves to an open position allowing liquid to enter the bore of the sight tube. When the push rod collapses, such as when the sight tube is either cracked or broken, the check valve move to a closed position.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an animal feeder sight glass device. The device is a single multi-layered component made of a foam gasket with a central opening which seats on a vessel having an outer wall with an opening in the wall, a transparent lens and an outer lens holder plate also with an opening aligned with the opening in the vessel. The multi-layered component is secured to the vessel with screws which pass through openings in the gasket and outer lens holder plate.

Abstract: A fluid flow indicator is presented particularly for use within an existing gasoline pumping apparatus. The fluid flow indicator includes an outer cage member, a first hollow transparent cylindrical member contained within the outer cage member, and a second hollow transparent cylindrical member concentrically retained within the first hollow transparent cylindrical member. The fluid flow indicator may also include a filter member and fluid movement detection means contained within the second hollow transparent cylindrical member. The fluid flow indicator is especially designed to be retrofitted within any existing fluid flow line.

Abstract: An improved sight glass for use in determining the level of water in steam boilers and similar installations is disclosed. The end flanges are provided with molded inserts, preferably of PTFE or similar fluorocarbon material which serves to provide a sealing washer when the device is connected to communicating pipe flanges at an outer surface thereof, and provides a seal at the annular end surfaces of the sight glass. A concentrically disposed guard tube is also maintained in sealed relation relative to the end flanges, and is preferably of polycarbonate or similar material. The guard tube is supported by oppositely disposed rectangular cross-sectioned "O" rings which provide for the sealing of the cylindrically shaped space between the outer surface of the sight glass and the inner surface of the guard tube. Peripherally positioned tie rods prevent excess tightening of the end flanges, thus preventing excess axially oriented pressure on the sight glass.

Abstract: A fluid level detection apparatus including a support member; first and second end blocks which are slidably engageable with the support member and which each have a passageway; a seal borne by each of the end blocks and disposed in each of the passageways, and a transparent tube telescopingly received in the respective passageways, and defining a fluid passageway or chamber; the present invention disposed in fluid flowing relation relative to an object of interest.

Abstract: A sight glass includes a solid acrylic ring-shaped body with a glass tubular liner mounted to the interior cylindrical surface of the body with a fuel and fuel-additive resistant sealant. The liner has a diameter slightly less than the interior diameter of the body so as to form an annular air space therebetween. The sealant is also an adhesive which connects the liner to the body. O-rings at the forward and rearward edges of the liner maintian the annular air space between the liner and body. The adhesive/sealant is a flexible resilient material which will permit the liner to move slightly longitudinally.

Abstract: The present invention of an opaque dirt shield for covering transparent portions of a sight container includes an obverse cover, a reverse cover, a fastener and viewing flaps. The covers are generally conformal with the shape of the container. The covers may be made integral into a planar mode to be shaped about the container by a user. The fastener secures one portion of a cover or associated structure to a related portion to position and secure the components of the shield with respect to each other and secure the shield onto the container. The viewing flaps allow the visual inspection of the interior of the container. Similarly, illumination flaps allow the illumination of the interior of the container.

Abstract: A vertically mountable sight gauge is comprised of one or more serially connectable sections for visually determining the level or the volume, or both, of liquid stored in a container. Each section has an upper and lower housing. Each housing has a passage therethrough with a first end and second end, is surrounded by a flange, and is attached to the ends of a straight length of substantially transparent, flexible pipe. The pipe is surrounded by a cylindrical, substantial transparent, rigid shield and a cylindrical, substantially transparent, rigid sleeve. The bottom end of the sleeve is surrounded by a shoulder. The outer diameter of the top end of the sleeve is less than inner diameter of the shield, such that the sleeve telescopically engages the shield. Biasing means bears against the bottom end of the shield and the sleeve's shoulder, surrounds and overlaps the sleeve, and urges the shield against the upper housing and the sleeve against the lower housing.

Abstract: A sight glass apparatus and method limiting external pressures on the sight glass. The sight glass apparatus has a pair of flanges wherein each of the flanges includes a tubular top portion which abuts the respective pipes. The tubular top portion includes a circular cut-out for providing a victaulic type connection for a clamping means to clamp to the respective pipes and a conical section which tapers into an annular rim section having a plurality of apertures wherein a bottom portion of the annular rim includes a center aperture being co-axially aligned when mounted to the pipes. An O-ring is mounted in a recess with a cylindrical glass tubing for observing the fluid or the like. The sight glass apparatus further includes machine precisioned shoulder studs with threaded ends. The ends protruding through the apertures of each of flange when connecting the sight glass apparatus together.

Abstract: A liquid level sight gauge comprises at least one sight tube 10, 11, a scale 12 mounted adjacent such sight tube(s) and periscope means 13, 15, 16 including a reflective member 17 mounted on an optical carriage 16 movable along the sight tube and scale for viewing liquid levels within the sight tube over a predetermined metering range. Each sight tube, the scale, and the optical carriage are mounted within a substantially closed tubular casing. The sight tubes and scale are illuminated at least at the level of the optical carriage.

Abstract: A liquid level sight gage has an elongated chamber block with a liquid chamber, a lens covering the liquid chamber, and a cover with an elongated viewing slot secured to the block with the lens interposed therebetween. Side beams of the cover, through which bolts securing the cover to the chamber block extend, have ovate configurations, providing greater mass at their centers, thereby providing greater support towards the centers of the chamber block sidewalls where the tendency to bulge is greatest. The bolts extend through longitudinally spaced holes in the side beams in contact with the chamber sidewalls and are transversely supported by the side beams.

Abstract: A protective shield for the sight glass of a flow meter. The flow meter includes an elongated guard having a slot that houses a sight glass, and a flow indicator carried by a float moves vertically within the sight glass and the fluid flow is read on a scale mounted on the guard and bordering the slot. A transparent open-ended protective sleeve is disposed around the guard and is retained on the guard by a spring clip that extends inwardly of the sleeve and engages an abutment on the outer surface of the guard.

Abstract: A high impact sight glass assembly and production method are described, in which the glass lens is fused into an enamel coated metal ring such that the glass lens is fused to the enamel coating and the entire glass area is under compression. The glass lens is placed in the bore of a flange, and the lens and flange ring are heated, whereby the lens flows to conform to the bore of the flange and is fused to the enamel coating.

Abstract: The specification and drawings disclose a gauge glass assembly including a gauge glass protected by a tubular shield including means for permitting visual observation of the gauge glass. The gauge glass is positioned in a cylindrical receptor which is in flow communication with the liquid whose level is being observed. The shield surrounds the gauge glass and has a length sufficient to enclose the exposed length of gauge glass. At the upper end of the shield an upper nut member is threadedly received on the shield and arranged such that when tightened it applies an axially directed force to drive the glass into the receptor. A lower nut member is positioned about the lower end of the gauge but is threaded to the receptor. Outwardly extending tabs or ears on the shield are engaged by the lower nut such that tightening of the nut drives the shield axially toward the receptor.