Float Patents (Class 116/110)
  • Patent number: 11272815
    Abstract: Monitoring modules for hand hygiene product dispensers may be installed in existing manual or touch free hand hygiene product dispensers to provide wireless communication of dispenser data to or from a dispenser. In one example, a manual dispenser beacon module is configured to be used with a manually actuated hand hygiene product dispenser to monitor hand hygiene compliance events (such as dispense events) associated with the dispenser, and to wirelessly transmit dispenser data to or from the manual dispenser. In another example, a touch free dispenser beacon module is configured to be used with a touch free hand hygiene product dispenser to monitor hand hygiene compliance events (such as dispense events) associated with the dispenser, and to wirelessly transmit dispenser data to or from the touch free dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Rospierski, David L. Snodgrass, Andrew M. Schultz, Viktor Slobodyan, Cheryl A. Littau, Kenneth T. Dobizl
  • Patent number: 10895490
    Abstract: A reservoir assembly comprising a lower manifold, an upper manifold, a reservoir body, a float member and a sensor system. The upper manifold has an upper cover placed over a central bore, and sealingly engaged therewith, the upper cover being at least partially transparent. The reservoir body has a lower end sealingly engaged with the lower manifold and the upper end sealingly engaged with the upper manifold. The float member is positioned within the reservoir and can slidably move between the upper and lower manifolds. The float member has an upper target that is substantially parallel to an upper cover positioned on the upper manifold. The sensor system has a float position sensor positioned over the upper cover and targeting the upper target of the float member to, in turn, determine the position of the float member relative to the float position sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Assignee: Scholle IPN Corporation
    Inventors: Sean Fitzgerald, Christopher Zaro
  • Patent number: 10727783
    Abstract: A mechanical device for cleaning a reflective glass surface is described. In one example, the glass surface is a heliostat mirror. The device includes a cleaning head and a blade assembly. In one example, the cleaning head includes an elongated base member and having a cleaning pad. The cleaning blade assembly includes a cleaning blade. The blade is mounted to the base member and is moveable between a first engaged position that causes the blade of the blade assembly to come into contact with the reflective glass surface and a second disengaged position that causes the blade of the blade assembly to come out of contact with the glass surface. A method of cleaning a glass surface is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: Dynamis Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Dallas Simonette, Houston Simonette
  • Patent number: 10718531
    Abstract: A residential and commercial hot water and steam boiler safety system and device that includes at least one hollow pipe, with one plugged or sealed end and a fitting on the other end for connecting the pipe in a substantially vertical mounting position, and at least one two float switch disposed in the pipe and electrically connected in series with a limit switch in the boiler, where the pipe is adopted for the flow and accumulation of water, so that float switch activates as the pipe fills with water and shuts off the boiler by turning off the gas valve, promoting safer boiler and steam boiler operation. Additional float switches positioned above or below in the hollow pipe may provide additional functions, such as a warning light and sound to the owner, or a notification via a telephone or cell phone system or through the home network or Wi-Fi system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Inventor: Louis Martire
  • Patent number: 10435872
    Abstract: A leakage prevention module arranged to prevent fluid leakage from a tube connected apparatus arranged in the leakage prevention module, including a fluid tight trough including a drain in fluid connection with a drainage connection arranged to be connected to a drain tube, a wall with a recess where a lower end of the wall is fluid-tight fixed to the fluid tight trough such that the recess faces away from the drain. A first internal drain tube with a first end terminated in the recess and arranged to be connected to a drain tube from an apparatus and a second end in fluid connection with the drainage connection, a first feedthrough in the wall, a termination module arranged in the recess, where the termination module is arranged for terminating an inlet tube led in through the first feedthrough and further includes a first outlet arranged to be connected to a first supply tube to the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: SENSORUTVIKLING AS
    Inventor: Øivind Godager
  • Patent number: 10408665
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a level indicator for determining the level of liquid in a container, the level indicator comprising: a floating device comprising a metal; a transmitter arranged to transmit an electromagnetic signal towards the floating device; and a receiver arranged to receive a response signal from the floating device. The floating device is moveable relative to the receiver so that a distance from the floating device to the receiver is altered in response to an altered level of liquid in the container, and wherein the electrical signal is a function of at least said distance. The receiver is electrically connectable to a control unit configurable to determine a position of the floating device relative to the receiver based on the electrical signal. The invention also relates to a system and a tank comprising the level indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Volvo Car Corporation
    Inventor: Hayder Al-Kattan
  • Patent number: 10171892
    Abstract: A drain monitor, a system, and a method monitor water level on a roof. The drain monitor includes a base for attaching to the roof, a riser attached to the base and projecting from the roof, a water level sensor attached to the riser for measuring water level on the roof, and a communication system positioned on the riser for transmitting measurement data received from the water level sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Inventors: John Petrachek, Xuewen Zhu, Jiang Li, Jianbin Xiao
  • Patent number: 10057548
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a smart closure unit for a writing apparatus. The closure unit comprises a diaphragm film, a camera and a control unit. The diaphragm film comes in contact with writing nib of the writing apparatus when the writing apparatus is closed by the closure unit. The camera captures an image of the diaphragm film when the writing nib of the writing apparatus is in contact with the diaphragm film. The control unit compares the captured image received from the camera with one or more predefined images, wherein each of the predefined images is associated with an ink intensity value. The ink intensity value indicates percentage of ink present in the writing apparatus. The control unit further detects the ink intensity value corresponding to the matched predefined image. Furthermore, a user interface in the closure unit displays one or more information related to the writing apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: WIPRO LIMITED
    Inventors: Vijay Kumar, Thomas Chittakattu Ninan
  • Patent number: 10024706
    Abstract: A gutter obstruction gauge apparatus providing a visual indicator of an obstructed gutter by providing a gauge device that provides indication that a gutter is full and needs clearing. The instant gutter obstruction gauge apparatus becomes visible within a gutter when the gutter is filled with debris and requires cleaning. The instant invention advantageously allows for the ability of maintaining the gutters and increasing the performance of the gutter and draining structures. The instant gutter obstruction gauge apparatus is a lightweight uncomplicated structure comprised of readily available materials allowing for easy and low cost manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Inventor: Thomas O. Pierce
  • Patent number: 9878390
    Abstract: Solder supply device includes solder cup that is tubular and open at one end, nozzle section for ejecting solder from the solder cup, flange section that is fixedly provided on an outer circumferential section of the nozzle section and that is engaged inside of the solder cup, and inner tube an end of which holds the nozzle section and the other end of which extends from the opening of the solder cup; the flange section is formed from material that is elastically deformable and the flange section is engaged inside the cup with an outer edge section of the flange section in an elastically deformed state. The elastic force arising between the outer edge section of the flange section and the solder cup is smaller than the holding force of the nozzle section by the inner tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Assignee: FUJI MACHINE MFG. CO. LTD.
    Inventors: Akihiro Senga, Shoji Fukakusa
  • Patent number: 9488743
    Abstract: A self-contained, wireless seismic data acquisition unit having a cylindrically shaped case with smooth side walls along the length of the case. A retaining ring around the circumference is used to secure the cylindrical upper portion of the case to the cylindrical lower portion of the case. Interleaved fingers on the upper portion of the case and the lower portion of the case prevent the upper portion and the lower portion from rotating relative to one another. Ruggedized external electrical contacts are physically decoupled from rigid attachment to the internal electrical components of the unit utilizing electrical pins that “float” relative to the external case and the internal circuit board on which the pins are carried. The seismic sensors in the unit, such as geophones, and the antennae for the unit are located along the major axis of the cylindrically shaped case to improve fidelity and timing functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: Fairfield Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford H. Ray, Glenn D. Fisseler, William Guyton
  • Patent number: 9459359
    Abstract: A self-contained, wireless seismic data acquisition unit having a cylindrically shaped case with smooth side walls along the length of the case. A retaining ring around the circumference is used to secure the cylindrical upper portion of the case to the cylindrical lower portion of the case. Interleaved fingers on the upper portion of the case and the lower portion of the case prevent the upper portion and the lower portion from rotating relative to one another. Ruggedized external electrical contacts are physically decoupled from rigid attachment to the internal electrical components of the unit utilizing electrical pins that “float” relative to the external case and the internal circuit board on which the pins are carried. The seismic sensors in the unit, such as geophones, and the antennae for the unit are located along the major axis of the cylindrically shaped case to improve fidelity and timing functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: Fairfield Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford H. Ray, Glenn D. Fisseler, William Guyton
  • Patent number: 9383248
    Abstract: A ball float alarm emits a signal when a liquid rises above a predetermined level inside a sump. The alarm is activated by conditions related to the rising and falling of the liquid in the cavity. The alarm emits a signal when the liquid rises above the predetermined level, and then powers off when the liquid falls beneath the predetermined level. A buoyant sphere is supported by a cable from above the cavity. The alarm floats on the liquid when the liquid level is above a predetermined level. When the sphere floats, the cable is lax. The lax cable causes a magnet and an alarm contact inside the alarm to pivotally join, and thus actuate an alarm signal. When the liquid falls below the predetermined level in the cavity, the cable becomes lax, causing the alarm contact to pivot distally from the magnet, which shuts off the alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Inventor: Kenneth Zuchlewski
  • Patent number: 8985964
    Abstract: A float switch apparatus for controlling the energization of multiple electric circuits in response to the level of a liquid in a vessel, and a pump system incorporating same, are provided. The apparatus has a guide structure adapted to be mounted in a fixed position relative to the vessel. A first micro-switch with a normal and an engaged position is mounted to the guide structure and is adapted to be connected into a first electric circuit to control the energization thereof. A second microswitch with a normal and an engaged position is mounted to the guide structure at a location above the first micro-switch and is adapted to be connected into a second electric circuit to control the energization thereof. A float rod is slideably mounted to the guide structure for reciprocating movement in a generally vertical direction in a zone above a resting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventor: Raymond Ascord Noel
  • Patent number: 8508382
    Abstract: A light emitting inflatable safety beacon is disclosed for identifying a location of the beacon. The beacon comprises an elongated bladder defining an interior chamber extending between an upper end and a lower end. A tether extends between a first end and a second end. A couple links the tether with the elongated bladder for suspending the tether within the interior chamber. A light source is secured to the tether for emitting an electromagnetic radiation. The electromagnetic radiation internally illuminates the elongated bladder for creating an illuminated beacon. The electromagnetic radiation traverses the elongated bladder for creating a location beacon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: John C. Novak
  • Patent number: 8430641
    Abstract: A float switch to control at least two pumps has a guide with two normally-closed micro-switches and a float rod slidably mounted thereto allowing reciprocating vertical movement. The float rod has one or more lower cam surfaces cooperating with the micro-switches to sequentially release them from their engaged positions to their normal positions during upward movement of the float rod. A float is slidably mounted to the float rod between upper and lower float stops. The shape of the lower cam surfaces is such that the weight of the float rod is insufficient to allow the float rod to move downwardly against resistance provided either by the first micro-switch or separately by the second micro-switch and the weight of the float rod combined with at least a portion of the weight of the float is sufficient to overcome either such resistance and to move the float rod downwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: Raymond Ascord Noel
  • Patent number: 7735486
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Intersurgical AG
    Inventor: Simon Robert Payne
  • Patent number: 7219618
    Abstract: An alarm Abstract is provided for a bathtub and includes a method for attaching to a wall of the bathtub, one being a suction cup. A float assembly is supported by the alarm housing to engage the alarm system. To use the alarm apparatus of the invention in a bathtub, one of the three attachment methods is used to secure the housing to the wall of the bathtub. The float is adjusted to the desired height. Water is added to the bathtub, which turns a waterwheel, and when the water level lifts the float assembly a sufficient amount, the alarm system is activated and sounds a warning alarm. The alarm system includes a waterwheel that's is spinning, a thin flat plastic bar that is attached to the float. The float raises the thin plastic bar into the waterwheel thus making a loud clicking sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Inventor: John Henry Shaughnessy
  • Patent number: 7147014
    Abstract: A smart water filling device comprising: a vessel, having an outlet and a space extended outwardly from one side of the vessel; a tube, one side coupled to the outlet; a float device, having a housing and a float, wherein the float is disposed inside the housing and the housing has at least one opening and one side of the housing is connected to the other side of the tube; a control device, having a housing and a control circuit, wherein the housing is positioned beside the housing of the float device and the control circuit is disposed therein; and a warning device, disposed inside the space and coupled to the control circuit; whereby while the water being filled into the vessel, the control circuit can detect the position of the float and determine the water level inside the float device, and alarm to the user by way of using the warning device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Inventor: Chao Chuan Chien
  • Patent number: 7044077
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Royal Environmental Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley C. Currie
  • Patent number: 6763780
    Abstract: A fill level indicator assembly for an agricultural material bin such as a seed dispensing hopper. The assembly includes an elongate sighting member which provides a water impermeable cover over an indicator opening in the bin cover and has a transparent portion providing visual access to the interior of the sighting member. An indicator rod extends through the indicator opening and has a distinctive marking located near one end. The opposite end of the indicator member has a foot which engages the agricultural material within the bin. Gravity causes the indicator member to lower as the quantity of agricultural material within the bin is depleted. As the indicator member lowers, the distinctive marking within the sighting member is also lowered thereby providing a visual indication of the quantity of material remaining in the bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Randal G. Place
  • Publication number: 20030051655
    Abstract: Now, most home and business water/sewer pipes are fitted with a four inch diameter PVC pipe running from the confluence of the subsidiary house outlet pipes and the main home sewer pipe to the surface. This pipe is fitted on top with a screw-in top cap. A hole is drilled into the center of this top cap and the cleanout alert inserted into the cap with the rod running thru the cap-the float is adjusted to set at the confluence of the outlet pipes and the main house sewer pipe. A finial is attached to the top of the rod on top of the screw-in top cap. Any cloggage/stoppage evident at the sub-surface level (evidenced by a movement of the finial above the surface) alerts the tenant to the fact, preventing damaging consequences if the situation is not corrected. There are not now any sub-surface warning devices of this type alerting the tenant, very early, that a cloggage is occurring and preventing a damaging sewage back-up.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Ray Broyles
  • Patent number: 6076703
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device coupled to a fluid container. The device contains a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet and is capable of dispensing fluid into the fluid container. The device also contains an alarm to warn a user that the container is substantially empty.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Diversey Lever, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan Kuil, Lambertus Gerardus van der Heijden
  • Patent number: 6000359
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventors: James Lee Hudson, Jr., Billy Tindol Hudson
  • Patent number: 5975154
    Abstract: A fuel overflow prevention system for substantially eliminating fuel spillage both due to over-filling during fueling and due to fuel expansion in fuel tanks. The device includes a fuel discharge preventor and a nozzle adapter that work together during re-fueling to allow displacement by fuel of gases within the fuel tank until such time that the fuel reaches a predetermined level in the tank. The system also includes a feedback coupling to permit the transfer of excess fuel from the preventor back to the fuel inlet, particularly when an automatic shutoff nozzle is employed. The system further includes an extension tube to allow remote location of a housing containing the discharge prevention valving of the invention. The discharge prevention housing only permits venting of vapors to the atmosphere and prevents liquid fuel discharge. A vent tube coupling permits venting of those vapors to a standard marine atmospheric vent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Benric Technologies
    Inventor: Willard M. Bennett
  • Patent number: 5945913
    Abstract: A liquid level alarm system is activated when liquid in a container falls below a predetermined level. The system contains an alarm located outside the container. The alarm is electrically connected to a switching device. The switching device may have a push-down button located on the top, an "on-off" switch located on the side, or a sliding switch located on the side. When the switch is pushed down, the switching device activates the alarm. In one embodiment, the container has a vertically positioned rod adjacent the switching device. There is a float slidably connected to the rod by a connecting rod and hook. The float rises and falls with the level of the liquid. On the side of the rod opposite the float there is a switch contact which makes contact with the switch when the level of the liquid falls below a predetermined level and the float is no longer supported by the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: Daniel J. Gallagher
  • Patent number: 5909825
    Abstract: A new beverage dispensing system for permitting an uninterrupted flow of a beverage when a beverage container is low on, or runs out of, a beverage. The inventive device includes first and second beverage containers and a dispenser connected to the containers. A system of valves control the flow of beverages from the containers to the dispenser, and manually actuated switches are used to control the valves. A float type of sensor is situated inside each of the beverage containers for sensing the amount of beverage remaining within the containers, and the sensors actuate a signal system for signaling when the amount of beverage remaining within the container reaches a predetermined level. The system is configured such that the beverage in the first container is initially dispensed from the dispenser. When the sensor within the first container senses that the beverage is almost gone, the signal system is actuated thus indicating this low, or empty, condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Inventor: Steven R. Lydford
  • Patent number: 5898376
    Abstract: A modular overfill alarm assembly is constructed and arranged to be installed in-line with a vent pipe in a vented storage tank for liquids such as waste oil or gasoline. The alarm assembly includes a vent tube having an open lower end that is threaded to be mounted to a vent opening in a vented storage tank, and an open upper end that is threaded to have a vent pipe mounted thereto, so that the vent pipe may be communicated with the vent opening as it would if it were threaded directly into the opening. The assembly further includes a support bracket mounted to the vent pipe and vent tube for supporting a commercially available alarm for actuating the alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: R. Michael Webb
  • Patent number: 5829491
    Abstract: A fuel overflow prevention system for substantially eliminating fuel spillage both due to over-filling during fueling and due to fuel expansion in fuel tanks. The device includes a fuel discharge preventor and a nozzle adapter that work together during re-fueling to allow displacement by fuel of gases within the fuel tank until such time that the fuel reaches a predetermined level in the tank. The predetermined level is chosen through the geometry of the fuel discharge preventor so as to provide sufficient space for thermal expansion of the fuel without subsequent fuel spillage. The fuel discharge preventor also contains a valve that closes upon attainment of the predetermined fuel level and, together with the nozzle adapter, causes a pressure build-up within the filling fuel tank so as to positively actuate the automatic turn-off features of the standard fuel pump nozzle utilized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Benric Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Willard M. Bennett
  • Patent number: 5610591
    Abstract: A liquid level alarm system which activates an alarm when liquid in a container falls below a predetermined level. The system contains an alarm which is located outside of the container. The alarm is electrically connected to an activation device which is contained within a housing. A single-pull switch arm is connected to the activation device and protrudes from the housing. One end of a line is attached to the distal end of the arm. The other end of the line is wound about a spring reel mounted on an axle connected to a float. When the surface of the liquid is between a predetermined upper and lower level, the spring reel maintains the line taut directly below the switch arm. The line is of such length that should the liquid in the container drop below a predetermined level, the float will no longer be supported by the liquid, and the weight of the float will pull the arm down to activate the alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Inventor: Daniel J. Gallagher
  • Patent number: 5322097
    Abstract: A funnel body includes an exit tube, wherein a mesh web pocket is arranged for securement to a lowermost end of the exit tube secured to an annular groove, with the pocket including a buoyant sphere arranged for projection into the exit tube exit opening for curtailing fluid flow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1994
    Inventor: Terry M. Wright
  • Patent number: 5273187
    Abstract: A dispenser wherein a predetermined amount of a dispensing material within a syringe barrel is dispensed from a nozzle thereof by sliding axially a plunger to a prescribed distance toward the nozzle, the plunger being housed in an axially displaceable manner within the syringe barrel, a magnet is fitted to the plunger, and a magnetic proximity sensor detects an axially displacement position of the magnet within the syringe barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1993
    Assignee: Tenryu Technics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takanori Suzuki
  • Patent number: 5255405
    Abstract: A tool holding apparatus for use with extension poles has a substantially hollow longitudinal handle for mounting on an end of an extension pole. A tubular support member is rotatably engaged with the upper end of the handle and is rotatable about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the handle. The tubular support member has tool-engaging means on at least one end for supporting a tool. Means for rotating the tubular support member relative to the handle are provided. The device also includes stop means disposed on the outer wall of the handle for limiting the rotation of the tubular support member beyond a predetermined point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Assignee: Steccone Products Co.
    Inventors: Soren Samuelsson, Patrick A. Smahlik
  • Patent number: 5140303
    Abstract: A liquid level responsive sending unit is positionable in a vehicle fuel tank to deliver a signal to a fuel gage on the vehicle dashboard. An electrical damping circuit is provided on a circuit board carried on the sending unit, such that momentary fluctuations in a fuel level sensor float are smoothed out. The signal transmitted to the gage is a signal representing a time-averaged condition of the sensor. The damping circuit location in the fuel tank is advantageous as regards signal accuracy calibration, manufacturing quality control, ease of assembly, and access for component replacement purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1992
    Assignee: Carter Automotive Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul M. Meyer
  • Patent number: 4997139
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a dispensing device for the automatically dispensing of a sanitary covering for rest room exit door handles, laboratory doors and the like. The door handle is enclosed with a dry sanitary covering which is replaced from a supply reel with each closing of the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Inventor: Yves Menard
  • Patent number: 4988978
    Abstract: A liquid level indicator for storage tanks including a cover member for covering an opening at the top of the storage tank, a central rod extending downwardly from the cover member into the storage tank, and a float movably disposed on the central rod. A vertically movable first rod assembly is connected to an upper portion of the central rod, and a vertically movable second rod assembly is connected to a lower portion of the central rod, with the float being disposed therebetween so that the float contacts and moves the first rod assembly when the storage tank is substantially filled, and the float contacts and moves the second rod assembly when the storage tank is near empty. Switches are associated with each of the first and second rod assemblies to activate signal members when either of the first and second rod assemblies are vertically moved to indicate when the storage tank is substantially filled or when the storage tank is near empty.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 29, 1991
    Inventor: Wilson F. Soto
  • Patent number: 4967181
    Abstract: A fuel level gauge provided with a remaining-amount warning apparatus is arranged so that an indicating needle for indicating the amount of fuel remaining in a fuel tank operates in accordance with a change in the resistance of a resistor device consisting essentially of a resistance plate having a resistor and a sliding element capable of sliding on the resistor in accordance with a liquid level change in the fuel tank. A warning means for issuing a warning when the amount of remaining fuel reaches a predetermined amount also operates by utilizing the resistor device. In such a fuel level gauge, the warning means is activated by a circuit disposed to connect a remaining-amount warning point and the warning means, the remaining-amount warning point being the position on the resistor at which the sliding element is positioned when the amount of remaining fuel reaches a predetermined amount which requires issuance of a warning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1990
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Tsutomu Iizuka, Tatsuo Ikegaya
  • Patent number: 4924221
    Abstract: A remote oil tank display apparatus is set forth in combination with an oil tank for the indication of oil tank volume. The sending unit is encased in a hermetically sealed container to prevent oil fume propagation throughout an area. A combination digital and light emitting diode display is set forth and is remotely positioned relative to the oil tank to enable individuals of diminished physical capacity to receive and display information of oil volume remaining in an oil tank. Further, an audio means may be selectively employed in concert with the visual displays to assist individuals of diminished hearing capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 8, 1990
    Inventor: Andrew Filippone
  • Patent number: 4881088
    Abstract: In a computer controlled automatic plotting device, an ink level detector is provided in a plotter pen cartridge. An ink-following object is provided in the plotter pin cartridge and is supported by the writing fluid. The ink-following object carries a magnet. As the ink-following object traverses down the inside of the plotter pen cartridge, the position of the magnet triggers a sensor at a predetermined level. The sensor then effects a visual or audible signal to alert an operator that the cartridge is running out of writing fluid. Alternatively, the sensor activates a control system to shut down the plotting device to permit replacement of the plotter pen cartridge with one having a new ink supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1989
    Inventors: Paul C. Fisher, Jr., Wiebe H. Van Der Meer, Paul C. Fisher
  • Patent number: 4800372
    Abstract: A mercury activated float switch is selectively positioned within a slot formed along an axial length of a perforated pipe. The pipe is vertically mounted to a weighted base, and the switch may be slid along the slot to adjust its operable height. The float member is pivotally mounted within the pipe and closes the associated switch when a preselected water level is detected. The closed switch then activates at least one type of alarm, such as an alarm bell or light, and may also be utilized to activate a transmitter which sends a signal to remotely positioned receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1989
    Inventor: John H. Poteet
  • Patent number: 4757305
    Abstract: A water level indicator useful for signalling a plurality of different water levels within a bathtub. The device has clamping means for removably securing the indicator to the tub, a depending float chamber for projecting into the tub and a battery operated sound alarm system. A float and rod assembly are housed within the float chamber. The rod projects through an opening in the top of the indicator and is provided with a plurality of metallic bands which will complete an electrical circuit to sound the alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1988
    Inventor: Dominic Peso
  • Patent number: 4644328
    Abstract: An improved buoyant alarm device which provides an indication of a disturbance to a quiescent level of a body of water. The device includes a cover assembly and a buoyant body. The cover assembly includes a cover member and a support member. The support member provides a subassembly support for electrical components which are mounted thereto and for forming, with the cover member, an enclosed water-tight chamber for housing the electrical components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1987
    Assignee: Remington Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Szymansky, Richard J. Wegrzyn, Richard I. Baker
  • Patent number: 4500761
    Abstract: A fluid reservoir with a fluid-level sensor includes a manual testing device consisting of two separate but cooperative rods. The fluid-level sensor consists of a float within the reservoir and a reed switch which is closed to cause a low fluid-level alarm when the float is lower than a predetermined level. The testing device serves to depress the float to below that level to ensure that the switch and the alarm are working. A first rod is supported by a filter mounted at the top of the reservoir. A second rod is supported by a flexible cover which fits over the top of the reservoir. The rods are coaxial and free to move downward far enough to push the float to below the above level. Having the two rods separable allows the cover to be removed easily without damaging the manual testing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1985
    Assignees: Nissan Motor Company, Limited, Tokico Ltd., Nippon Air Brake Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hitoshi Kubota, Seiji Hamamatsu, Teluo Yambe, Toshiyuki Takahashi
  • Patent number: 4379434
    Abstract: A float is moved upwardly or downwardly by liquid being added to a liquid holding tank. The float carries a first permanent magnet which is moved by the float towards a second magnet which is separated therefrom by a liquid tight partition. The permanent magnets are arranged with like poles directed towards each other so that the permanent magnets will repel each other and movement of the first permanent magnet in response to a liquid level change will cause the second permanent magnet to be moved in response to the repelling force. The second permanent magnet is positioned in line with a depressable control member of a normally closed valve in a gas line. Movement of the second permanent magnet against such control member depresses the control member to open the valve, allowing gas to flow from a storage tank to a piston in a normally closed valve that is located in a second line leading from the gas supply to a horn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1980
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1983
    Inventor: Petur Thordarson
  • Patent number: 4187503
    Abstract: A sump alarm device adapted for mounting on a vertical pump shaft housing of a sump pump. The sump pump is disposed in a sump. The sump alarm device is activated when the water level in the sump rises above a predetermined level when the sump pump fails to operate due to loss of electrical power or a malfunction in the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1978
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1980
    Inventor: Robert G. Walton
  • Patent number: 4144521
    Abstract: A signal generator for a fluid-level indicator in a motor vehicle which converts the pivotal movement of a pivot in the indicator produced by the rise and fall of a float in a fuel tank of the vehicle into digital binary coded electrical signals by means of digital binary coding means mechanically connected to said pivot, said digital binary coded signals being fed to an integrated switching circuit of the signal generator, the outputs from the switching circuit being enabled in sequence when, for example, the float rises from a minimum height in the fuel tank to a maximum height therein, each one of said outputs being connectable to a corresponding electrically-energizable light means, such as a luminous diode, associated with an illuminable display panel situated on an instrument panel of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1978
    Date of Patent: March 13, 1979
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Gunter Lehnhert
  • Patent number: 3942526
    Abstract: An alarm system operative in conjunction with a venocylsis set which includes a drop chamber coupled to the output of a fluid bottle. The alarm system is provided with a float disposed in the drop chamber and responsive to the level of fluid pool therein. A proximity switch sensitive to the float position is removably attached to the exterior of the drop chamber to produce a switching action when the fluid level falls below a predetermined value. An alarm circuit is coupled to the proximity switch to generate a warning signal when the switching action occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1972
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1976
    Inventors: Joseph R. Wilder, Maurice S. Kanbar, Cynthia K. Wilder