Abstract: Apparatus for filling drums and other containers with a lilquid product. The apparatus can be used for both subsurface and top filling operations. The level of the liquid in the container is monitored to prevent overfilling and withdrawal of the lance at an incorrect speed during a subsurface filling operation. A self closing cap is provided at the lower end of the lance, and a drip catcher is automatically moved into position beneath the lance when it is withdrawn from the container.

Abstract: Apparatus for filling drums and other containers with a lilquid product. The apparatus can be used for both subsurface and top filling operations. The level of the liquid in the container is monitored to prevent overfilling and withdrawal of the lance at an incorrect speed during a subsurface filling operation. A self closing cap is provided at the lower end of the lance, and a drip catcher is automatically moved into position beneath the lance when it is withdrawn from the container.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for locating the bung opening of a container such as a drum. The container is rotated about its axis to move the bung opening along a generally circular path, and a locator pin with a pivotally mounted follower arm is positioned in the path of the opening so that the follower arm will travel along the wall of the container, then pivot and enter the opening when the pin is aligned with the opening. The pivoting of the follower arm is detected by an interruption of air flow through a discharge opening which is obstructed when the arm is in position to enter the opening.

Abstract: Encoder assembly for use with a dial type scale. The assembly includes a base, a bearing mounted on the base which is mounted in the scale in place of one of the bearings for the indicator shaft, and a pinion and shaft which replace the pinion and shaft of the scale. An encoder disc is mounted on the shaft, and means responsive to light passing through the encoder disc is mounted on the base for providing an output signal corresponding to the rotational position of the shaft.