Abstract: A lost motion apparatus for adapting a typical in-tie switch machine, designed for use with interconnected switch points, to be used as an in-tie machine for moving the movable V-point of a movable point frog assembly.

Abstract: A system for monitoring a storage tank containing a fluid. The system measures the buoyancy force acting on a displacer suspended in a storage tank by means of a load cell. The resulting force acting on the displacer is proportional to the mass of fluid in the tank. A look-up table is first developed by making periodic entries of the resulting load cell output during the initial filling of the tank. This data is then stored in a computer memory. By utilizing this data and interpolating between entries, a very accurate measurement of the fluid mass in the tank is calculated. In addition, by making periodic measurements over time, small leaks can be detected. In the preferred embodiment, the monitor includes an A/D converter located adjacent to the sensor assembly, thereby substantially eliminating measurement errors due to thermoelectric effects.

Abstract: A weighing apparatus for determining the weight of a load while the load is in vertical motion, comprising a stationary support, a lifter for lifting and lowering the load thorough a range of vertical motion, and at least three elongate weigh beams secured to the stationary support and the lifter by respective opposite ends thereof and rigidly spacing the lifter horizontally from the stationary support. The weigh beams sense the weight of the load continuously while the load is in motion. A computer is operatively connected to the weigh beams for receiving and processing weight information sensed by the weigh beams and outputting data representative of the weight of the load. A first weight is sensed representing the container and refuse contained in the container. A second weight is sensing after the container has been emptied and subtracted from the first weight to derive a net weight representing the weight of the emptied refuse.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for feeding, weighing and releasing a predetermined quantity of fiber in reoccurring cycles for use in a fiber blending operation or the like whereby the quantity of fiber released in each cycle is maintained at an essentially constant and preselected level, which includes means for sensing the actual weight of fiber dumped from a weigh pan or container, comparing such weight with a constant preset desired weight setting, and varying the weight of fiber delivered during the next cycle to compensate for any differences between the preset weight and the actual weight dumped during the preceding cycle.