Abstract: An apparatus for determining a density-compensated liquid level in a vessel containing a mixture of liquid and vapors comprises a temperature sensor which produces a signal that is proportional to the temperature of the mixture; and a processing apparatus that includes one or more pressure sensors that allow for a measurement of an operating pressure and a differential pressure between the mixture in the vessel and a constant reference leg. The processing apparatus further includes an integral microprocessor for calculating the respective specific gravities of the liquid and vapor portions of the mixture based on the operating pressure, and then computing the density-compensated liquid level in the vessel based on such calculations of specific gravity and the differential pressure.

Abstract: A herbal steam device includes a closed heated boiling chamber with openings at the side for a steam outlet. A collecting chamber surrounds the upper part of the boiling chamber. Cold water from a reservoir below flows into the boiling chamber through an inflow pipe. Surplus water flows through an overflow and a backflow pipe back to the reservoir. An electrical heating plate is present under the boiling chamber, and a herb pot may be placed in the steam space above the boiling chamber. The inflow pipe runs in a curve around the boiling chamber. The steam which escapes from the openings heats up the inflowing water. At the same time, the relatively cold inflow pipe acts as a foam barrier adjacent to the openings.

Abstract: A water distiller includes an inner vessel in which source water is heated, an outer dome or housing on the inner surface of which the vapor from the inner vessel is condensed and a reservoir for receiving the condensate. The inner vessel includes a closure which directs vapor radially of the inner vessel to the dome or housing and which may include a vapor filtration element. A variety of domes or housings are shown including those of double wall construction with ports or vents to direct heat transfer fluid or air between the walls thereof, and those having lower portions which downwardly converge to direct the condensate to a central mouth of a reservoir.