Abstract: The invention relates to a pipetting device having tube with an opening at one end for suctioning or discharging a sample fluid, and can be operatively connected to a pressure generation device at the other end. A first electrode is formed on the pipetting device that forms a measuring capacitor together with a second electrode formed by at least one part of the sample fluid and that can be received in the tube and the measuring capacitor is operatively connected to a measuring unit, and the measuring unit is designed to determine a volume of the suctioned or discharged sample fluid according to the capacity of the measuring capacitor. The invention also relates to a fluid processing system having a pipetting device of this type, as well as a method for determining a processed fluid volume during pipetting with a pipetting device of this type.

Abstract: A fuel delivery system and method for reducing the likelihood that a fuel tank of equipment at a well site during fracturing of a well will run out of fuel. A fuel source has plural fuel outlets, a hose on each fuel outlet of the plural fuel outlets, each hose being connected to a fuel cap on a respective one of the fuel tanks for delivery of fuel to the fuel tank. At least a manually controlled valve at each fuel outlet controls fluid flow through the hose at the respective fuel outlet.

Abstract: The lubricant level within a reservoir is difficult to monitor, leading to the reservoir being refilled more often than necessary to ensure that the reservoir always contains lubricant. A lubricant level sensing system is connected to and monitors various aspects of the pump assembly that draws lubricant from the reservoir. The pump assembly displaces a known volume of lubricant with each pump stroke. A lubricant-level estimator calculates an estimated lubricant level remaining in the reservoir based on a stroke-count value as sensed from the pump assembly and on a reference value stored in a memory. The estimated lubricant level provides the lubricant remaining and the rate of usage such that maintenance can be scheduled ahead of time to prevent the reservoir running dry.

Abstract: There is disclosed a fuel tank valve assembly 24 for a fuel tank 4. The fuel tank valve assembly comprises a discharge valve 30 which in normal operation is closed, and which can be opened to discharge fluid from the fuel tank; and a water passageway 56 across which extends a membrane 60 which is permeable to water but impermeable to fuel. There is also disclosed a fuel tank 4 comprising a fuel tank valve assembly 24.

Abstract: A tank inventory signaling apparatus that has gas cylinder tanks stored on a pad having an array of spots to mark tank placement. Tanks are placed directly over the spots in a grid of rows and columns. Sensors below each spot act as weight or proximity sensors indicating the presence or absence of a tank. The sensors are connected to logic that monitors the state of all sensors. Tank inventory is inferred by changes of state of the sensor grid since it is necessary to change sensor state to remove a tank. Sensor states are reported to a remote server having associated tank management and supply software and route management software. In this manner, local tank usage can be tracked at remote locations for resupply of tanks and delivery of replacement tanks can be optimized.

Abstract: A pump for exchange of fluid between an apparatus reservoir and a reserve reservoir. The pump may have an elongated tubular body with a central bore with a reservoir end portion, an inlet end portion and an intermediate barrel portion. A piston assembly with a driving piston with a stem member with nonmagnetic properties attached and the stem member has a tubular extension member attached with all in longitudinal axis alignment slidably positioned in the central bore to position the driving piston adjacent to an electromagnetic coil assembly that is positioned around the intermediate barrel portion and to position the tubular extension member for a reservoir end to extend outwardly at the reservoir end portion opening. An output tubular member with a pressure relief valve is attached to an output port in a side wall of the reservoir end portion positioned for release of fluid through an output port.

Abstract: A drop zone marker includes a parachute, a first light module connected to the parachute by a first length of cord and a second light module connected to the first light module by a second length of the cord. A ballast is connected to the second light module by a third length of the cord is provided for pulling downwardly the drop zone marker. The parachute is configured to include an integral packing/deployment bag within which all components of the drop zone marker are contained up until deployment.

Abstract: An oil level display device is fitted such that a float guide accommodating a float is attached to an oil filler neck and is plugged with a float cap. To check the amount of oil, the float cap is removed and the position of the float is checked. If a sufficient amount of oil is stored, an upward force derived from oil buoyancy is larger than a downward force of the own weight of the float, from among the forces that act on the float. The float thus protrudes beyond a large-diameter portion upon removal of the float cap from the float guide.

Abstract: A nib assembly for a writing instrument comprises a ferrule having a first end and a second end. The ferrule includes an inner ferrule wall and an outer ferrule wall, the inner ferrule wall and the outer ferrule wall being separated by a well having an opening. A cap has a first end, a second end, and a first cap wall. The first cap wall is sized and shaped to be at least partially received within the well, the first cap wall being disposed at least partially within the well, between the inner ferrule wall and the outer ferrule wall, when the cap is coupled to the ferrule.

Abstract: A dual mode water leak detector is combined with a HIVAR air condition system or unit. The air conditioning unit or system uses chilled water for cooling or hot water or electric coils for heating and employs means for supplying heated or cooled air into a floor void and channeling return air to designated vents under the floor or through a false ceiling. In addition a water sensor includes an enclosed housing having a bottom or base and four electrical contacts extending through the base and positioned above the floor by about 2 mm by four rubber spacers or feet. In addition a first circuit connects a first and a second contact separated from one another by an airspace to a pair of banana clips for turning the HIVAR system off when water between the first and second contacts is completed due to the presence of water. A second circuit includes a switch and a 60K OHM resistor connecting that circuit to a first of the contacts and second of the contacts when the switch is in a closed position.

Abstract: A safety device for a fluid storage tank having a first port for filling the tank with fuel oil and a second port for allowing airflow therethrough is disclosed. The safety device includes a tubular body having a first open end and a second open end connectable to the second port, and a flow check valve contained within the tubular body and configured to remain open when air flows through the safety device and configured to close based on a predetermined fluid force of the fuel oil through the safety device. Related systems and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A type of liquid level gauge for continuous measurement of boiler steam drum under full conditions and its method for calculation of liquid level, this liquid level gauge includes one metal measurement tube and one transmitter. The steam-side pipe connected to steam drum is fitted on the upper part of the metal measurement tube and the water-side pipe connected to steam drum is fitted on the lower part of the metal measurement tube, one insulated jacket pipe is available inside the metal measurement tube and 1# probe, 2# probe, and 3# probe are mounted from down upwards inside the insulated jacket pope. The respective probes are mutually insulated and not conducted. The three probes are respectively connected with the transmitter through lead wires of the probes.

Abstract: A method includes receiving information associated with a level of material in a tank, where the tank has a hatch. The method also includes determining whether the level of material in the tank experiences a specified variation within a critical zone associated with the hatch. The specified variation is indicative of the hatch being open while the tank is being filled. In addition, the method includes generating an alarm when the level of material in the tank experiences the specified variation. Determining whether the level of material in the tank experiences the specified variation could be based on an entrance level speed of the material, which identifies a rate at which the level of material in the tank is increasing when the material level crosses a lower bound of the critical zone. Also, no alarms could be generated when the level of material in the tank is outside the critical zone.

Abstract: The liquid level sensing device includes rotating electrically conductive probes and uses a self-cleaning rotary electrical connection system with a contact stylus on a rotating conductive barrel, for sensing a liquid level in a dispensing container of an aircraft galley insert. The probes, pivot arms of the probes, rotating drum and stylus may have an exterior surface formed of an electrically conductive, corrosion resistant material.

Abstract: A medical respiratory apparatus includes a chamber (10) which is at least in part at least translucent. The chamber (10) includes a float member (12) formed of an inert material and contains, in use, a fluid intended for inhalation. The float member (12) is adapted to float upon the fluid intended to be contained within the chamber (10) and has a peripheral dimension adjacent, but less than, the internal peripheral dimension of the chamber (10). At least the outer peripheral surface of the float member (12) has a coloration distinct from that of the fluid to be contained within the chamber such that the level of the fluid within the chamber (10) can be readily observed.

Abstract: A visual locating device comprises an elongate, inherently buoyant, flexible sheet for floating on the surface of a body of water that has a longitudinal axis. At least three buoyant support struts are secured to the sheet and disposed across the longitudinal axis of the sheet such that the sheet is divided into a plurality of sections defined between respective pairs of struts. A light source is disposed on the sheet to provide nighttime visibility to the sheet. A pouch, which receives the sheet when stowed, is configured to release the sheet when immersed in water. The sheet is at least z-folded inside the pouch.

Abstract: A method includes receiving information associated with a level of material in a tank, where the tank has a hatch. The method also includes determining whether the level of material in the tank experiences a specified variation within a critical zone associated with the hatch. The specified variation is indicative of the hatch being open while the tank is being filled. In addition, the method includes generating an alarm when the level of material in the tank experiences the specified variation. Determining whether the level of material in the tank experiences the specified variation could be based on an entrance level speed of the material, which identifies a rate at which the level of material in the tank is increasing when the material level crosses a lower bound of the critical zone. Also, no alarms could be generated when the level of material in the tank is outside the critical zone.

Abstract: A device and system for monitoring a fluid level within a tank and for indicating when the fluid level within the tank has dropped below a predetermined minimum level. The device includes a strobe light, which is switched on when a sensor determines that the fluid level within the tank has dropped below a predetermined level. The flashing strobe light can be viewed during the day and at night from any viewing angle, and can thereby alert an observer that the tank needs to be filled before the tank becomes empty.

Abstract: An audible fill level alarm is provided. The alarm includes a whistle body having a lower whistle hole, a whistle-tube depending from said whistle body, and a whistle disk having an upper whistle hole. The whistle disk and the whistle body define a whistle chamber that is conical in shape.

Abstract: A liquid level sensor system actuated by a column pressure includes a hollow member having a distal open end adapted to be positioned into a liquid reservoir to a depth below a liquid surface level, and a sensor head unit. The sensor head unit is responsive to the column pressure to provide an indication of a liquid level in the reservoir. A low liquid level alarm circuit is responsive to the bellows member to generate a signal indicative of a low liquid level state.

Abstract: A moisture monitoring and control system comprising: 1) a plurality of moisture sensors; 2) one or more local or remote control stations capable of monitoring and controlling each of the individual elements of the moisture monitoring and control system; 3) at least one water control valve capable of turning off the water supply to all or at least one water supply zone and powered by an aerogel capacitor; and 4) a plurality of non-interfering RF communications devices at each of the sensor, control and water control valve locations.

Abstract: An audible fill level alarm is provided. The alarm includes a whistle body having a lower whistle hole, a whistle-tube depending from said whistle body, and a whistle disk having an upper whistle hole. The whistle disk and the whistle body define a whistle chamber that is conical in shape.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a sensor including, inter alia, a body having first and second spaced-apart apertures, the first aperture having a shape producing an audible noise upon a fluid passing therethrough; a piston positioned within the body; and a chamber having an additional fluid disposed therein, with a volume of the additional fluid placing the piston between first and second positions, the first position impeding the first volume of fluid and the second position allowing the first volume of fluid to pass through the first aperture.

Abstract: Assembly of a diaper and a sensor for at least determining a position of a user of the diaper, wherein the diaper is provided with an insertion opening or coupling element for coupling of the sensor to the diaper, such as Velcro. Method for forming a diaper, wherein from at least a top layer, a core material and a bottom layer, at least partly a diaper is formed, such that the core material is locked between the top layer and the bottom layer, wherein the top layer is at least partly moisture-transmissive and during use is turned towards the body of a user and the bottom layer is substantially moisture-tight and during use is turned outwards, after which on the side of the diaper turned outwards during use an insertion opening or coupling element is provided.

Abstract: A high/low level alarm controller having ability to interface with level sensing equipment and instrumentation in a manner that isolates the controller from downstream components is presented. The controller accepts power, logic and transduced level inputs; output from the controller is available to drive relays, solenoid valves, motors, pumps, alarm horns, etc. The high/low level alarm controller is ideal for existing/retrofit applications and new installations alike.

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: The mechanical signaling device is used for indicating when contaminates are present in water in a manhole so that the contaminated can be cleaned out of the manhole before the contaminates are released into the environment. The mechanical signaling device has a flag which moves up to a visible warning position when triggered by contaminates entering a float in the manhole which will then weigh the float down which pulls on a cable attached to a trigger which releases a spring loaded flag to pop up into view. The flag is easily reset by pushing it back down against the force of the spring until it is reset for release by the triggering mechanism. The mechanical signaling mechanism is housed in a pipe and has a protective cover preventing snow from resting on the top cover, further a top cover seals pipe when the flag is down.

Abstract: A high/low level alarm controller having ability to interface with level sensing equipment and instrumentation in a manner that isolates the controller from downstream components is presented. The controller accepts power, logic and transduced level inputs; output from the controller is available to drive relays, solenoid valves, motors, pumps, alarm horns, etc. The high/low level alarm controller is ideal for existing/retrofit applications and new installations alike.

Abstract: A fluid storage container provides a visual display of a fluid level therein. The container has a plurality of capillary tubes attached thereto, correlating to predetermined fluid levels within the container, and which may be visually observed upon inspection of the capillary tubes. Each of the capillary tubes has an inlet at a lower end thereof, and the inlets are located at different vertical levels from one another. When fluid in the container is at a level above an inlet of a given capillary tube, the capillary tube automatically fills with fluid, providing a visual signal of the fluid level.

Abstract: An accumulating whistling vent for indicating a level of liquid in a tank having a vent line is disclosed. The whistling vent includes a whistle housing reservoir which has mounting tubes extending from either ends. A whisle is housed in the whistle housing reservoir by insertion into one of the mounting tubes. The whistling vent is coupled between the vent line of the tank such that the tube containing the whistle is closest to the tank. As liquid is introduced into the tank an audible signal is produced by the whistle. Once full, air flowing from the tank through the vent line is replaced by the incoming liquid, thus muting the whistle. Excess liquid is accumulated in the reservoir prior to discharge from the vent line, thereby providing additional time to respond to the change in audible signal. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a transparent reservoir is used to provide a visual indicator in addition to the change in audible signal.

Abstract: A fluid storage container provides a visual display of a fluid level therein. The container has a plurality of capillary tubes attached thereto, correlating to predetermined fluid levels within the container, and which may be visually observed upon inspection of the capillary tubes. Each of the capillary tubes has an inlet at a lower end thereof, and the inlets are located at different vertical levels from one another. When fluid in the container is at a level above an inlet of a given capillary tube, the capillary tube automatically fills with fluid, providing a visual signal of the fluid level.

Abstract: A water feeder controller for a boiler monitors a low water cutoff sensor in a boiler and uses a feed timer to feed water to the boiler for a predetermined feed period of time. The feed timer brings the water level in the boiler well above the low water cutoff sensor. The feed timer supplies water to the boiler only if the low water cutoff sensor continues to indicate a low water level for a delay period of time measured by a delay timer. A resettable display indicates the quantity of water supplied by the water feeder to the boiler based on a feed counter incremented during water feeding. A manual feed button allows water to be manually fed to the boiler. The quantity of water manually supplied to the boiler is also shown on the display. The feed timer and delay timer are preferably implemented in software in a microcontroller in the water feeder controller. A lockout loop in the software prevents overfeeding of water to the boiler in the event of a failure of the low water cutoff sensor.

Abstract: A fuel level indicator system includes a housing member that is couplable to a fuel tank. The housing member is positionable adjacent to a vent opening in the fuel tank. The housing member defines an interior space. The housing member has a lower aperture facilitating environmental communication between the interior space and an interior of the fuel tank. The housing member has an upper aperture. A vent portion is coupled to the housing. The vent portion is in environmental communication with the interior space of the housing member via the upper aperture. The vent portion facilitates air flow from the interior of the fuel tank through the housing and out of the system. A whistle assembly is positioned substantially within the housing. The whistle assembly produces an aural indication of airflow through the housing member.

Abstract: An accumulating whistling vent for indicating a level of liquid in a tank having a vent line is disclosed. The whistling vent includes a whistle housing reservoir which has mounting tubes extending from either ends. A whisle is housed in the whistle housing reservoir by insertion into one of the mounting tubes. The whistling vent is coupled between the vent line of the tank such that the tube containing the whistle is closest to the tank. As liquid is introduced into the tank an audible signal is produced by the whistle. Once full, air flowing from the tank through the vent line is replaced by the incoming liquid, thus muting the whistle. Excess liquid is accumulated in the reservoir prior to discharge from the vent line, thereby providing additional time to respond to the change in audible signal. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a transparent reservoir is used to provide a visual indicator in addition to the change in audible signal.

Abstract: The invention concerns a liquid transfer device for an analysis apparatus with a liquid transfer cannula (5) and a capacitive liquid level detector to detect the immersion of the liquid transfer cannula (5) in an analysis liquid contained in a vessel. To reliably check if the liquid transfer cannula (5) is submerged in the analysis liquid or immersed for example in foam it is proposed additionally that resistance is measured by a measurement section (16) in the liquid transfer cannula (5).

Abstract: An electrode electrolyte system is provided that is capable of operating in slope sensors in a wide range of temperatures. The eletrolytic system is characterized by a stable conductivity at high temperature and by low toxicity. The slope sensor can be installed in a system containing an Nal solution in propylene carbonate, combined with platinum electrodes.

Abstract: A fluid level indicator (22) indicating the level of a fluid (14) in a chamber (12) having a piston (16) is disclosed. The fluid level indicator (12) has a housing (24) that is positioned adjacent to the chamber (12). A plurality of magnetic pins (28, 38) are moveably disposed within the housing (24). The magnetic pins (28, 38) have a first position and a second position. At least one of the magnetic pins (38) shifts from the first position to the second position when the piston (16) is aligned therewith, thereby indicating the position of the piston (16) within the chamber (12) and indicating the level of fluid (14) within the chamber (12).

Abstract: A two stage alarm system for detecting rising levels of sludge in septic tanks, and similar sedimentary tanks. The system, to detect a first or “caution” level, and a second or “critical” level of sludge, relies upon a pair of vertically positioned weight sensitive switching mechanisms which, when triggered by the rising levels of sludge, will send appropriate signals to a remote alarm mechanism, such as at the residence, to activate a “yellow” and/or “red” light, for example, thus alerting the owner of the tank to the need for remedial action.

Abstract: A housing and float assembly allow for vapors or gases displaced during filling storage vessels to be redirected from a normal vent through a vapor or gas activated whistle or alarm without significantly restricting the venting rate of the vessel. The alarm produces a warning for the operator that the storage vessel has reached the predetermined high level to help avoid overfilling of the storage vessel. The device can be fabricated from readily available "off the shelf" parts and mounts into standard pipe threads or on to standard pipe flanges. The device can be provided as a kit to be assembled by the user.

Abstract: A fuel overfill warning device including a vent tube. A whistle alarm is positioned within the vent tube. A pair of flexible hoses engage opposing end portions of the vent tube. The whistle alarm will emit an audible signal as air is forced out of the vent line of the fuel tank while pumping fuel. As the tank approaches a full level, the audible signal will gradually decrease and then cease.

Abstract: A cassette type gas cylinder, containing liquefied fuel gas, for giving an alarm when the volume of remaining fuel is reduced to a predetermined level or less in order to provide an advanced notice of replacement of the gas cylinder with a simple structure using burst energy of discharged gas. A valve 12 for opening and closing the discharge of liquefied gas is arranged at the center on one end of a container body 11a. A gas flow channel 17, with one end thereof opened into a gas space formed above the level of the fuel when the gas cylinder is laid horizontally, is connected to the valve 12. A vibrating member 27, for producing a sound when vibrated and caused to collide with a body by the burst of the fuel gas, is disposed in the gas flow channel 17. This vibrating member 27 is connected to a damping member 38 by means of a coupling member 29. The damping member 38 is located below a predetermined level of the liquefied fuel gas, and is subjected to resistance while moving in the liquefied fuel gas.

Abstract: A spraying system for providing a pressurized liquid spray for cleaning purposes is mounted on a vehicle for use outdoors. The system includes a liquid storage tank, a spray device for directing a spray of liquid therefrom, and a liquid supply system for pumping liquid from the liquid storage tank and for providing such liquid under pressure to the spray device. A standpipe is located within the liquid storage tank, connected to the tank liquid outlet, having a liquid inlet spaced above the level of the tank liquid outlet by a short distance. As the liquid is drawn from the tank and eventually reaches the level of the standpipe liquid inlet, air will be entrained with the liquid as the liquid then continues to enter the standpipe, causing the spray to sputter or spit as it exits the spray device. This alerts the operator to a low level of liquid in the tank and comprises a warning that use of the spraying system should be discontinued until the liquid storage tank is refilled with liquid.

Abstract: A semiconductor sensor detects the existence of liquified gases by immersion or approaching the liquid. A high signal amplitude of the sensor permits a simple signal evaluation of high reliability. The sensor permits the realization of filling level measuring devices or level control devices for liquified gases.

Abstract: An automatic water replenishing system is designed for use with multiple dye vats used for tinting eyeglass lenses, but the broad principles of the invention could apply to other systems used for replenishing individual ones of plural vats or reservoirs with water or some other liquid. A rotary water distributor rotates about an arc when it is signaled by water level sensors that the water in a particular vat is low. As the rotary distributor reaches the low reservoir, the LED carried by the distributor actuates a photo transistor adjacent the particular reservoir that needs replenishing, causing the motor to stop and the water supply solenoid valve to be actuated, filling the reservoir until a brief period of time after the level sensor indicates a full condition to the central control system.

Abstract: An add-on liquid overflow shut-off valve for a tank. The device is used to ensure that a holding tank is not overfilled and provides a fail safe way to prevent spillage when pumping into a holding tank. The device provides a warning indicator when the holding tank is near full. The device also has a fail safe switch which will turn off air to a pump when the holding tank is full and also blow a whistle to indicate the tank is full. The device uses a diaphragm which operates on a pressure differential. When the pressure is increase past a spring set point, the diaphragm raises a plate that activates a switching valve which shuts off air supply to an air pump and blows a whistle.

Abstract: An infusion alarm system comprised of a housing, an upper cover attached to the housing at the top, a control circuit set in said upper cover, a battery box set inside the housing and an inner shell set between the housing and the battery box, a tension spring set in the inner shell having a hook coupled thereto at the bottom for suspending a drip infusion bottle, an adjusting key set set in the housing to adjust the tension of the tension spring. When the weight of the drip infusion bottle is reduced to a predetermined range due to reducing of infusion solution during drip infusion operation, the control circuit is triggered to produce audio and visual alarm signals through an audio and a visual alarm device respectively.

Abstract: A fuel filler alarm for boats includes a housing, a whistle element on the housing and a suction ring on the housing. The suction ring is operable for detachably securing the housing to the hull of a boat adjacent a fuel tank vent thereon so that air passing outwardly through the vent passes through the housing and the whistle element. The whistle element is responsive to the outward flow of air through the fuel tank vent during a fuel filling operation for producing an audible whistling sound, while sound essentially stops when the associated fuel tank reaches a substantially full condition.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for filling vessels with liquid has a non-electric fill indicator having an air passageway leading up and out of the vessel to an air flow indicator, air escaping during filling causes the indicator to whistle and when the whistle stops, the vessel is filled and the user stops filing; a funnel has an elongate air inlet port through a side wall to an adjustable height air inlet to the indicator, air flow is not stopped until the height level of opened air inlet port is covered by the vessel liquid.

Abstract: A saucepan capable of setting amount of soup finally left therein, including a body having a nozzle portion communicated with inner portion thereof, and a cap provided with pressure-relieving hole and pressure valve, wherein a conduit provided with scale is extended into the nozzle portion and the position of lower opening of the conduit will determine the final level of the cooked soup, a thermal sensor being disposed at upper end of the conduit whereby when the cooked soup goes down below the lower opening of the conduit, because the pressure limit of the pressure valve is larger than the pressure existing in the conduit, the created steam will immediately alteratively escape through the conduit and the thermal sensor will sense the temperature of the escaping steam and indicate the controller to cut off power and emit warning sound so as to effectively control final amount of the soup left in the saucepan.

Abstract: A signal apparatus comprising a post-mountable arm adapted at one end to be mounted on a vertical stand post and having provided at the other end thereof a bell adapted to be struck by a counter-weight mounted on one end of a balance beam when blood reaches a predetermined level in a blood collection bag hung from the other end of the balance beam which is mounted on the said post below the said arm, and a hook adapted to receive a second bag removably hung thereon.