Abstract: The flowmeter of this invention computes the volumetric flow rate of a liquid by measuring the changing positions of objects carried in the flow. This information can be combined with data describing the size, shape and fraction of filling of the conduit. By measuring displacement instead of velocity, accurate measurements of liquid movement can be obtained even when flows are moving very slowly, or not at all.

Abstract: An open-channel liquid flowmeter which is not disabled by submergence of the primary device measures flowrate using both critical-flow and velocity-area techniques and compares results to determine the conditions of flow. The device then selects the method offering the greatest probability of accuracy at that moment and computes flow using the selected method.

Abstract: A device for taking a representative sample from a large volume of liquid in storage is disclosed. The device comprises a sealable sample container with fittings to facilitate attachment to the storage vessel to be sampled and a connected source of pressure controllable by valve means to cause movement of sampled liquid in and out of the sealed container. A filter unit connected to the sample container provides a trap for liquid or vapor that may be purged from the sample container as the sample is taken. The sample container has a control for providing automatic shutoff of sample flow when the sample container is filled. In one embodiment of the invention, source-pressure is utilized to create a suction for drawing liquid to be sampled into the sample container, and in a second embodiment, the source-pressure is used to purge the sample liner and its fittings prior to allowing the storage vessel pressure to force liquid into the sample container.

Abstract: A continuous sampler having a predetermined number of sample containers in which a sample from a liquid flow is deposited at predetermined intervals of time. Samples are deposited in sample containers in a sampling position and the sample containers are stepped once each interval of time through a path of travel until they assume a cleaning position adjacent to the sampling position. A sample removal probe and a wash probe is lowered through an access opening in the sample container in the cleaning position and a source of washing solution is coupled to the wash probe and means for removing the contents of the sample container is coupled to the sample removal probe. Means for controlling the position of the wash and sample removal probes in a position inside the sample container in the cleaning position and in a position remote therefrom, as well as controlling the means for removing samples therefrom and the means coupling a wash solution thereto is provided.

Abstract: Metering apparatus for installation in the bottom of a sewer well or manhole providing access to a sewer flow path and having an inlet and an outlet pipe at the bottom thereof. A hollow cylindrical section is provided for placement of one end in the outlet pipe, leaving the other end extending into the bottom of the sewer well. An inflatable collar is provided which surrounds the one end of the cylindrical section, and which, when inflated, provides a seal between the inside diameter of the outlet pipe and the outside diameter of the cylindrical section. The end of the cylindrical section which extends into the bottom of the sewer well carries an internally mounted metering flume situated so that the entire flow from the inlet pipe to the outlet pipe passes through the metering flume.

Abstract: An apparatus for collecting samples of water from open flows is disclosed. The apparatus includes a controller, a quantimetric chamber and storage means, and provides for automatic collection and storage of liquid samples. The entire device is pneumatically operated and therefore suitable for use in explosive atmospheres.

Abstract: A sampling system for drawing samples from a fluid flow which is responsive to manual actuation, predetermined increments of flow volume, or predetermined increments of time. The system includes a flow meter and a flow sampler interconnected and physically located in the vicinity of the flow being monitored. The flow meter converts the flow head to flow rate and subsequently to flow volume. The head to flow conversion is mechanical and provides for flow measurement through a flow channel having a given cross section shape over a wide range of shape sizes by means of an electrical adjustment. The flow meter provides for flow measurement through flow channels having varying cross secton shapes by means of selectively engaging a predetermined one of a plurality of cams designed to convert head to flow is being measured.

Abstract: A fluid flow level detector contacts a fluid surface in an open channel providing a fluid surface height signal related to a predetermined reference height level. The flow level detector immediately withdraws upon contacting the fluid surface and exhibits a time delay before subsequently seeking to regain surface contact. Auxiliary signals are produced related to specific predetermined fluid surface height levels. The fluid surface signal is directed to a computer where it is converted into a signal related to flow volume by a function read-only memory. Totalized flow volume is provided along with an optional time display recording.