Electrical Characteristic Sensing Patents (Class 137/392)
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Patent number: 9345159Abstract: A water-proof structure has an internal barometer for a terminal device. The water-proof structure is an internal cavity of the terminal device. The water-proof structure is provided with an opening on a casing of the terminal device. Abarometer is arranged inside the water-proof structure. A water drop detection device is arranged between a water-proof mesh net and the barometer. The water drop detection device is electrically connected to a control valve, and when a water volume detected by the water drop detection device reaches a water volume threshold value, the control valve is closed.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2013Date of Patent: May 17, 2016Assignee: Huawei Device Co., Ltd.Inventor: Xu Peng
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Patent number: 9322512Abstract: A fluid-reservoir management system for monitoring fluid capacities and controlling the transfer of fluid capacities within a fluid network includes a plurality of linked fluid reservoirs for storing the fluid capacities, a central computer unit in a communication network, the fluid reservoirs being linked to the communication network for transmitting data to and from the central computer unit, a communication portal provided in the communication network, a user interface for accessing the communication portal, a comparison unit for comparing fluid capacities and for comparing parameters of the fluid reservoirs and of the fluid network, and a control device for executing orders to transfer fluid capacities between at least two fluid reservoirs. The central computer unit coordinates the orders to transfer fluid capacities between at least two fluid reservoirs as a function of results of comparisons performed by the comparison unit and forwards the orders to the control device for executing.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2011Date of Patent: April 26, 2016Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Marco Bremer, Martin Kletscher
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Patent number: 9273890Abstract: An ice making assembly and method utilizes a housing having an upper fluid chamber, a plurality of distinct, substantially vertical fluid channels, and at least one drain aperture in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir. Ice forming members extend from an ice forming evaporator into respective fluid channels. During an ice making event, fluid continuously supplied to the upper fluid chamber flows into each of the fluid channels and out through at least one drain aperture into a fluid reservoir below. The ice forming members are cooled such that fluid flowing across the fluid channels freezes on the ice forming members over time, forming clear ice pieces. The ice pieces are subsequently released from the ice forming members and transferred for storage and/or dispensing.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2014Date of Patent: March 1, 2016Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Anderson Bortoletto, Nihat O. Cur, Douglas D. Leclear, Andrew M. Tenbarge, Ronald L. Voglewede
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Patent number: 9249038Abstract: A water purifier includes a filter part to filter water, a storage part to store the water filtered by the filter part, and a separation unit to partition a space within the storage part into a plurality of spaces. A contact part is disposed between an inner surface of the storage part and the separation unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2012Date of Patent: February 2, 2016Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.Inventors: Younghoon Ha, Kobong Choi, Jonghun Park, Ho Seon Choi, Joonho Jang, Sangho Kim, Kang Hyun Lee, Kyu Seong Choi, Je Wook Jeon
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Patent number: 9181078Abstract: A modular, environmentally friendly mobile fuel distribution station includes a fuel tank, a support structure having a plurality of legs for supporting an operation platform in an elevated position a predetermined distance above ground, an alternative power generation device, the alternative power generation device being one of a solar power generator and a wind power generator for providing primary power to the mobile fuel distribution station and a central platform operatively connected to at least two of the legs, the at least two of the legs bearing the weight of the central platform, wherein the fuel tank and the alternative power generation device are disposed on the operation platform.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2011Date of Patent: November 10, 2015Inventors: Jose A. Cajiga, Arturo Cajiga Villar, Vicente Cajiga Villar
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Patent number: 9045852Abstract: A washing machine and a washing control method of the same capable of controlling a degree of application of the machine force at every temperature step according to the selected washing course based on information, such as the amount of load detected in the beginning of washing and the amount of wash water detected by the rise change of the wash water temperature during washing, thereby reducing damage to laundry during washing and accomplishing optimal washing efficiency. The washing control method includes detecting wash water temperature and controlling a motor operation rate or a washing time based on the detected wash water temperature.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2007Date of Patent: June 2, 2015Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Hyun Sook Kim, Sung Hoon Kim, Seong Min Oak
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Patent number: 8973601Abstract: A liquid condition sensor configured to monitor the condition of a liquid in an ultrasonic cleaning system tank, the liquid condition sensor including a first circuit configured to detect a signal transmitted from an ultrasonic generator to one or more ultrasonic transducers located in the tank. The liquid condition sensor further includes a second circuit coupled to the first circuit, the second circuit configured to determine if the signal is indicative of one of a suboptimal liquid level, and an unacceptably high concentration of dissolved gases in the cleaning liquid, and a third circuit coupled to the second circuit, the third circuit configured to provide a warning if one of a suboptimal liquid level, and an unacceptably high concentration of dissolved gases in the cleaning liquid is indicated by the second circuit.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2011Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: Ultrasonic Power CorporationInventors: Peter J. Puskas, Steven H. Myers
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Publication number: 20150047580Abstract: The separatorless boiler includes a downcomer pipe (84) connecting a lower portion of the upper header (24) and the lower header (22) and a control means (70) for carrying out a first control for controlling a water supply means (60) so that a water level in the can body lowers when a detected water level by an external water level detecting means (50) exceeds a first set water level and a second control for controlling the water supply means (60) so that the water level in the can body rises when the detected water level becomes lower than or equal to a second set water level lower than the first set water level.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2013Publication date: February 19, 2015Applicant: Miura Co., Ltd.Inventors: Koichi Masuda, Takanori Tanaka
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Patent number: 8944117Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for dispensing a liquid to fill a container (4) up to a predetermined liquid level. The invention also refers to a dispenser capable of achieving such a method.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2010Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: Electrolux Home Products Corporation N.V.Inventors: Cristina Bertoni, Andrei Uhov, Elvio Zanon
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Publication number: 20140158225Abstract: A condensate pump system for collecting condensate liquid within a reservoir 50 and pumping out the liquid to predetermined levels comprising a reservoir 50, a, a pump 10, a transistor 20, a relay 30, and a low voltage direct current power source wherein a sensing voltage is introduced (a power probe 1 or reservoir 50) into the condensate liquid such that the liquid level is detected via the two sensing probe conductors (hold probe 2 and on probe 3) within the reservoir 50 transferring the sensing voltage to the base leg 20B of the transistor 20 which in turn powers a relay 30 that powers the pump 10 when the energized liquid is contacting the upper conductor 3 at the desired maximum level 4 and disconnects the pump 10 from power when the energized liquid no longer contacts the lower conductor 2 at the desired minimal level 5.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2012Publication date: June 12, 2014Inventor: Ross McBride
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Patent number: 8731725Abstract: A fluid overfill detection and control system for controlling the transfer of fluid into a transport vehicle having multiple fluid compartments includes a plurality of overfill sensors that are connected in series with one another and that each produces an output pulse when the fluid level in its associated compartment is below a threshold level. A diagnostic line connected to each of the overfill sensors provides a diagnostic signal indicative of the number of overfill sensors that generate an output pulse, while a module on the vehicle provides an indication of the total number of overfill sensors located in the vehicle. To prevent a hazard due to the possible bypass of a overfill sensor, the controller compares the overfill sensor count signal to the diagnostic signal and inhibits the transfer of fluid into the vehicle if the values do not match.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2009Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Scully Signal CompanyInventors: Robert R. Trottier, Kenneth L. Langlais
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Patent number: 8711002Abstract: A subsea control module has a casing inside which there is at least one pair of electrodes, there being electronic means connected with the electrodes of the or each pair for monitoring at least one electrical characteristic between the electrodes as a result of a fluid to which the electrodes are exposed. This can include, for example, a change due to an ingress of seawater and/or an ingress of hydraulic fluid into the interior of the casing. The or each pair of electrodes include an array in which each electrode of the pair has finger portions interleaved with finger portions of the other electrode.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2013Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls LimitedInventors: Julian R. Davis, Simon David Gill, Adrian John Derrick
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Patent number: 8469050Abstract: A capacitive fluid level sensing arrangement for use in a medical device is provided. The arrangement includes at least one pair of conductive plates configured to increase and decrease the amount of electric charge stored in relation to the level of fluid within a fluid maintaining device, such as a reservoir. The conductive plates are electrically connected to a medical device and are configured to measure the charge stored between the plates and thus sense the fluid level. The electric circuit may communicate the measurement to an instrument host arrangement for operating a pump configured to remove fluid from the reservoir and move the fluid to a collector when the level exceeds a preset upper level amount. The instrument host arrangement may stop operating the pump when the fluid level is reduced to a preset lower level amount.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2008Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Abbott Medical Optics Inc.Inventor: David A King
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Patent number: 8446284Abstract: A method of indicating low oil level of lubrication oil for a gas turbine engine automatically eliminates false low oil readings due to temperature-induced lubrication oil shrinkage and operation-induced changes in lubrication oil level.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2011Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: Pratt & WhitneyInventors: Michael E. Mehrer, André M. Ajami
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Patent number: 8427336Abstract: A subsea control module has a casing (1) inside which there is at least one pair of electrodes, there being electronic means (26-33) connected with the electrodes of the or each pair for monitoring at least one electrical characteristic between the electrodes as a result of a fluid to which the electrodes are exposed, the or each pair of electrodes comprising an array (19) in which each electrode of the pair has finger portions interleaved with finger portions of the other electrode.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2010Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls LimitedInventors: Julian R. Davis, Simon David Gill, Adrian John Derrick
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Patent number: 8241009Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for reusing water, comprising: —a mains system which comprises at least one conduit for transporting water and monitoring means adapted to measure changes in an electrical parameter of the conduit; —a storage tank for storing supplied water; —a water discharge for discharging stored water to a water-consuming unit; and—a control system adapted to control the supply of water to and the discharge of water from the storage tank subject to the changes in the parameter measured by the monitoring means. The present invention also relates to a mains system applied in such a system, and to a method for monitoring such a system or water mains system.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2007Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Ecoplay International B.V.Inventors: Johannes Donaes Jacobus Platteel, Sjoerd Pieter Wouda
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Patent number: 8220482Abstract: A leak detection system for the rapid and accurate detection of the mean surface level change of a body of liquid is provided. The system is capable of sensing mean surface level changes under static or turbulent surface conditions. In one embodiment, the system includes a rigid walled sensor pod with at least one inner pod cavity that is so positioned to receive liquid from a body of liquid by way of an opening below the surface of the liquid such that dynamic equilibrium is possible and maintained between the mean surface level of the body of liquid and the amount of liquid in the inner cavity. The system further includes a sensor assembly having a stiction free float operating in conjunction with a strain gauge, and microprocessors applying algorithms to process, display, and report the sensor data in accordance with the needs of the end user or to initiate actions for automated control functions.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2008Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Kona Labs LLCInventors: Richard DeVerse, Van R. Malan
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Publication number: 20120152374Abstract: The present invention provides a smart water flow apparatus capable of maintaining a desired level of water in a reservoir while having an override or shutoff feature that is programmable to address variations in water pressure or to prevent flooding.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Inventor: Ron Hymes
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Patent number: 8175754Abstract: A method of providing configuration information for a process fluid flow device is provided. The method includes receiving a process fluid selection and providing at least one selectable fluid property relative to the selected process fluid and receiving at least one process fluid property selection. Information relative to a primary element is also received. Reception of a reset relative to the process fluid selection, the process fluid property, and the primary element selection, clears the respective information. The configuration information is provided to a process fluid flow device based on the process fluid selection, the process fluid property and the primary element information.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2009Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Rosemount Inc.Inventor: David E. Wiklund
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Patent number: 8091579Abstract: A level sensor for providing an indication of liquid level in a container. The level sensor including an ultrasonic transducer for emitting an ultrasonic signal to the surface of the liquid and for detecting a return signal, reflected from the surface. A controller instructs the transducer to emit ultrasonic signals and receives an indication that a return signal has been detected. The controller including a timer for measuring the time period between emission of the ultrasonic signal and receipt of a return signal, the determined time period providing an indication of the liquid level. A radio transmitter receives an indication of the liquid level and transmits a radio liquid level signal to a remote output unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2007Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Inventors: Hugh Corum Sintes, Mario Brian Daniel Becroft, Raymond John Pryor, Andrew Bryce Smith
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Patent number: 8065759Abstract: A monitor embodiment, monitoring overflow levels in a bathtub, comprises an input water unit, including a control circuitry, coupled to a hot-cold water facet; a water level detection unit including telescopically joined tubes with a floatable lowest tube associated with an indicator, an uppermost tube fixed to the input unit, sensors attached to non-lowest tubes variably coupled. The sensors detect the indicator's position reaching a predetermined alarm or shutoff level, causing respective initiating an alarm signal, or terminating the input unit's water flow. Another embodiment additionally comprises an output water unit associated with the circuitry, incorporating a temperature sensor and a user preset-temperature selector. The output unit outlets cooled water from the bathtub, the input unit inlets hot water until the preset-temperature is reached, provided no alarm signal was issued. An additional sensor, incorporated in the input unit, allows adding the hot water when it's hotter than the bathtub water.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2007Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Inventors: Aleksandr Smushkovich, Eugene Pogrebinsky
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Patent number: 7992527Abstract: A water feed controller which can provide for the addition of a preset fixed amount of water to be added after a low water condition is removed. This system provides for a preset fixed amount of water to be added to a boiler above the amount which triggers the low water condition. This generally inhibits excess cycling from the boiler operating at its minimum safe water level as well as inhibiting overfilling of the boiler. Further, there is discussed a water feed controller which can measure the amount of water added over a prior predetermined period (such as 30 days) which serves as a floating window of time so that a leak or other condition resulting in overly frequent filling can be detected quickly.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2005Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignees: Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC, Taco, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey C. Merwin
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Patent number: 7907059Abstract: A sewage pipe alarm system includes a portable case seated exterior of the existing pipe. The system further includes a mechanism for detecting a blockage of fluid flow within the existing pipe by determining whether an internal water level within the existing pipe exceeds a threshold water level within the existing pipe. The system further includes a mechanism for notifying a user about the blockage of the existing pipe and a power supply source housed within the case. Such a power supply source is electrically coupled to the detecting mechanism and the notifying mechanism respectively.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2007Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Inventor: James Guy
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Patent number: 7849871Abstract: A water controlling kit is connected to the fluid system, of a fire truck for example, used for pumping water to one or more fire hoses. The kit has a water level gauge, a signaling element and a control valve and is adapted to maintain the pressure at the inlet of the pump of the fire truck within a preselected range of about 1.5 to about 3 psi. during discharge from the pump and pressure fluctuations of the pressurized water supply supplying water to the fire truck reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2006Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: JNT Link, LLCInventors: John E. McLoughlin, Neocles G. Athanasiades, Toh K. Meng
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Patent number: 7779858Abstract: A valve assembly, such as a tap for a liquefied gas cylinder, includes an overfill protection device and a liquid level gauge having an electrode assembly comprising a pair of lamellar electrodes mounted closely adjacent a housing member of the overfill protection device and deflectable into close proximity with a float of the overfill protection device for insertion into the gas cylinder. A circuit board is provided, preferably mounted on the electrode assembly, and has an electronic converter circuit for measuring the electrical capacitance between the electrodes and producing in response to the measured capacitance an output signal representative of the liquid level in the container. A display means is mounted on a body of the valve assembly or remote therefrom, to indicate the liquid level in the container in response to the output signal from the electronic converter circuit.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2009Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: Torrent Trading Ltd.Inventors: Jean-Claude Schmitz, Linze Hoekstra
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Publication number: 20100032026Abstract: A monitoring device including first detector means of a flow rate of operative fluid in an electric household appliance towards a tank of the electric household appliance and second detector means of the level of such a fluid in the tank; wherein the first and second detector means are operatively and reciprocally associated to issue a single signal (S) characterised by at least two different parameters, a first parameter (F) correlated to the flow rate of the fluid and a second parameter (A) correlated to the level of fluid in the tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2007Publication date: February 11, 2010Applicant: ITW INDUSTRIAL COMPONENTS S.R.L. CON UNICO SOCIOInventor: Sergio Giordano
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Publication number: 20090139584Abstract: A valve assembly, such as a tap for a liquefied gas cylinder, includes an overfill protection device and a liquid level gauge having an electrode assembly comprising a pair of lamellar electrodes mounted closely adjacent a housing member of the overfill protection device and deflectable into close proximity with a float of the overfill protection device for insertion into the gas cylinder. A circuit board is provided, preferably mounted on the electrode assembly, and has an electronic converter circuit for measuring the electrical capacitance between the electrodes and producing in response to the measured capacitance an output signal representative of the liquid level in the container. A display means is mounted on a body of the valve assembly or remote therefrom, to indicate the liquid level in the container in response to the output signal from the electronic converter circuit.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2009Publication date: June 4, 2009Applicant: TORRENT TRADING LTD.Inventors: Jean-Claude Schmitz, Linze Hoekstra
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Patent number: 7509974Abstract: A metallic ball has a sliding sleeve, a shell, at least one magnet and a mounting bracket. The sliding sleeve has an open upper end, an open lower end and an outer surface. The shell is spherical, is mounted securely around the sliding sleeve between the open upper end and the open lower end of the sliding sleeve and has a reinforcing disk mounted around the outer surface of the sliding sleeve and has a top surface and may have a protruding portion. The magnet is on the top surface of the reinforcing disk. The mounting bracket is mounted around the sliding sleeve and on the top surface of the reinforcing disk to cover the magnet and has a wall extending toward and engaging the reinforcing disk and completely covering the magnet to effectively avoid the magnet being broken or damaged.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2007Date of Patent: March 31, 2009Assignee: Finetek Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ting-Kuo Wu
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Patent number: 7487793Abstract: A valve assembly, such as a tap for a liquefied gas cylinder, includes an overfill protection device and a liquid level gauge having an electrode assembly comprising a pair of lamellar electrodes mounted closely adjacent a housing member of the overfill protection device and deflectable into close proximity with a float of the overfill protection device for insertion into the gas cylinder. A circuit board is provided, preferably mounted on the electrode assembly, and has an electronic converter circuit for measuring the electrical capacitance between the electrodes and producing in response to the measured capacitance an output signal representative of the liquid level in the container. A display means is mounted on a body of the valve assembly or remote therefrom, to indicate the liquid level in the container in response to the output signal from the electronic converter circuit.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2006Date of Patent: February 10, 2009Assignee: Torrent Trading Ltd.Inventors: Jean-Claude Schmitz, Linze Hoekstra
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Publication number: 20080017252Abstract: An electronic control device for a pump, particularly for transferring liquids, comprising a central control unit, which is adapted to drive an electric motor which is designed to operate the pump, at least one motor temperature sensor, which is adapted to send a temperature signal to the control unit, at least one motor current sensor, which is adapted to send a current signal to the motor, and at least one power switch, which is adapted to drive the motor, the power switch being driven by the control unit in order to control the motor according to the signals of the temperature sensor and the current sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2007Publication date: January 24, 2008Inventor: Otto Varini
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Patent number: 7240690Abstract: A valve assembly, such as a tap for a liquefied gas cylinder, includes an overfill protection device and a liquid level gauge having an electrode assembly comprising a pair of lamellar electrodes mounted closely adjacent a housing member of the overfill protection device and deflectable into close proximity with a float of the overfill protection device for insertion into the gas cylinder. A circuit board is provided, preferably mounted on the electrode assembly, and has an electronic converter circuit for measuring the electrical capacitance between the electrodes and producing in response to the measured capacitance an output signal representative of the liquid level in the container. A display means is mounted on a body of the valve assembly or remote therefrom, to indicate the liquid level in the container in response to the output signal from the electronic converter circuit.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2004Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: Torrent Trading Ltd.Inventors: Jean-Claude Schmitz, Linze Hoekstra
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Patent number: 7237409Abstract: A safety valve mounted in a steam cleaner is provided. The safety valve comprises a cap assembly, an actuation assembly, and a lock assembly. A rotation of the cap is adapted to detach the cap assembly when the steam cleaner is not operating or steam pressure inside the steam cleaner has not reach a safety value since the legs of the clutch are engaged with the notches of the driving disk. Responsive to generated steam reaching the safety value, the steam passes through the valve to lift the pushing member for compressing both the actuating member and the spring and disengaging the legs from the notches prior to exiting the steam cleaner such that rotating the cap will not rotate the lock assembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2004Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: Uni-Splendor CorpInventor: Yu-Yuan Lin
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Patent number: 7207318Abstract: A method for operating a converter for the energy conversion of fuel from at least one main fuel supply, and from at least one auxiliary fuel supply for operating the converter directly and/or by operating an auxiliary unit, comprises: detecting the amount of fuel in the main fuel supply; detecting the amount of fuel in the auxiliary fuel supply, at least with respect to a predetermined minimum amount; in response to the minimum amount being reached, generating a signal that blocks at least one of a) filling of the main fuel supply, and b) startup of the converter via a control unit; and deactivating the blocking in response to the auxiliary fuel supply being replenished.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2004Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: FEV Motorentechnik GmbHInventors: Gerhard Lepperhoff, Helmut Pleimling
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Patent number: 7171993Abstract: A beverage dispenser for filling a container preferably has a nozzle through which the beverage is discharged and a pivoting lever located underneath the nozzle that detects the placement of a container so as to regulate the actuation of the dispenser. A conductive probe is in line with the discharged beverage stream, the lever also being conductive. A signal generator generates a varying-over-time signal that is applied to the probe or lever. As a result of beverage overflowing the container, the beverage stream establishes a conductive path between the probe and lever. The signal through this conductive path is compared to the signal produced by the signal generator. If the signals are substantially identical for a select period of time, the dispensing system is considered to be in an overflow state, and beverage dispensing is terminated.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2005Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Assignee: PepsiCo, Inc.Inventors: Timothy W. Bethuy, Andrew D. Nelson, Gary Blank, Anthony V. Salsich
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Patent number: 7161492Abstract: A device, having a container for holding a fluid moving therein and a conductance probe installed therein for providing a conductance signal indicating whether it is in contact with the fluid, features a jiggler arrangement having a jiggler arranged on the conductance probe so as to form a mechanical self-cleaning conductance probe, which responds to movement of the fluid, for wiping the conductance probe to keep deposits from building up on the conductance probe. The jiggler arrangement may include one or more grooves thereon so that the jiggler can be loosely fitted on the tip between one or more retaining rings arranged in the one or more grooves. The jiggler arrangement may include one or more retaining rings snap-fit on the tip for loosely arranging and retaining the jiggler on the tip.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2004Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: ITT IndustriesInventors: John E. Branzell, Christopher J. Thomson
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Patent number: 7156116Abstract: A method, system, and computer program are provided for operating a valve using a cushion filter. The method, system, and computer program receive a process variable signal associated with operation of a valve. The method, system, and computer program filter the process variable signal to produce a filtered process variable signal using a cushion filter. The cushion filter implements a cushion in a bias used by the cushion filter. The method, system, and computer program generate an output signal for adjusting the valve based at least partially on the filtered process variable signal.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Joseph Z. Lu
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Patent number: 7093611Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2005Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: C. Cowles & CompanyInventors: Christopher L Murray, Richard A Lyons
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Patent number: 6964278Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for electronically and non-invasively sensing liquid level in a boiler or other liquid-containing vessel. The apparatus, comprising a sensor and sensor integrated circuit can be uniquely designed for external attachment to any commercially available gauge glass used for visually determining liquid level in a boiler and other liquid-containing vessels. The apparatus, which employs proximity level-sensing technology, is suitable for determining liquid level provided the liquid-containing boiler or vessel is metallic and the liquid is electrically conductive, for example water and other aqueous solutions. The apparatus can additionally comprise at least one, preferably two externally located electrical pushbutton switches, for example “water feed” and “test”, for manually adding water to the boiler and for testing the apparatus' proper working condition with a simulated low water condition, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2004Date of Patent: November 15, 2005Inventor: Thomas Tschanz
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Patent number: 6935367Abstract: A fluid level control apparatus for selectively controlling the movement of liquid flowing out of a flotation cell is described. The fluid level control apparatus is significantly reduced in size in comparison with the flotation cell or cells to which it is connected which enables less expensive construction and reduced operating costs in terms of both the equipment and the plant as a whole. The fluid level control apparatus comprises a vessel having a valve positioned therein which includes a valve body structured with a curved surface which provides selective and finite control of fluid flowing through the vessel of the control apparatus. In one embodiment at least one of the inlet and outlet of the control apparatus exhibit a cross-sectional area taken transverse to the intended fluid flow therethrough having a substantially horizontal dimension which is greater than a substantially vertical dimension.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2002Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Assignee: GL&V Management Hungary KFT.Inventors: Robert D. Cook, Jerry W. Hunt
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Patent number: 6926028Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2004Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: C. Cowles & CompanyInventors: Christopher L. Murray, Richard A. Lyons
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Patent number: 6910498Abstract: A liquid level control system for detecting and responding to changes in the level of liquid in a container. The system includes a transmitter in radio communication with a receiver, which is in turn connected to a valve assembly. The transmitter unit is programmable to respond to changes in the level of liquid in a container and to emit a radio signal receivable by the receiver unit, which controls the release of liquid to the liquid container via the valve assembly. The signal may be suppressed by a timing circuit in the transmitter circuitry unless and until a liquid level change is sufficiently sustained. The receiver is also programmable to keep the liquid control valve open a predetermined amount of time or to close the valve upon receipt of a high liquid level signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2001Date of Patent: June 28, 2005Inventor: Michael L. Cazden
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Patent number: 6877170Abstract: A toilet water measuring and flow control system, including leak and overflow detection and prevention elements. The system has inlet and outlet flow sensors operably connected to inlet and outlet control valves and to water level sensors to measure and control water flow to and from the toilet. Water level sensors held in a toilet tank are connected to the system to control the volume of water fed to the toilet tank and passing through the outlet. The toilet tank may be provided with a movable reservoir to more accurately control the amount of water held in the tank and exiting the tank upon flushing.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2003Date of Patent: April 12, 2005Assignee: Niccole Family TrustInventors: Richard Quintana, Devon Niccole
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Patent number: 6868861Abstract: A level control system for controlling the thickness of a work material in a slurry form cast upon a moving belt includes a fluid reservoir disposed above the belt, a sensor lens assembly for sensing the slurry height within such reservoir, and a control valve for adding slurry to the reservoir. A lens disposed near the moving belt and above the reservoir is coupled by fiber optics to a remote sensor amplifier for detecting the height of the slurry. A control circuit responsive to the light sensor regulates the flow rate of the slurry through the control valve.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2001Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Assignee: Credence Engineering, Inc.Inventor: James Edward Ellis
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Patent number: 6810902Abstract: A control circuit for a plumbing device that has a drain line and a water supply line includes a water sensor generating a potential overflow level signal in response to the water level in the plumbing device caused from a restricted drain line, an electrically controlled valve coupled to the drain line, and a controller coupled to the water sensor and the valve. The controller closes the valve in response to the potential overflow level signal.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2003Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Inventor: Anthony M. Bootka
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Patent number: 6782908Abstract: A washer system which includes a first reservoir containing a freezable washer liquid and having a drain port therein. The drain port is in fluid communication with the freezable washer liquid when the first reservoir is in at least a full state. The washer system also includes a temperature sensor for measuring a critical temperature corresponding to approximately a freezing temperature of the freezable washer liquid, a drain plug sealingly communicating with the drain port, and an electrical control unit in operative communication with the temperature sensor and the drain plug. The electrical control unit controls the drain plug to drain the liquid from the first reservoir in response to the critical temperature.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2002Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Ellen Cheng-chi Lee, Kevin Richard John Ellwood, Scott Alan Wojan
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Publication number: 20040149335Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2004Publication date: August 5, 2004Applicant: C. Cowles & CompanyInventors: Christopher L. Murray, Richard A. Lyons
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Publication number: 20040035465Abstract: A liquid level control system for detecting and responding to changes in the level of liquid in a container. The system includes a transmitter in radio communication with a receiver, which is in turn connected to a valve assembly. The transmitter unit is programmable to respond to changes in the level of liquid in a container and to emit a radio signal receivable by the receiver unit, which controls the release of liquid to the liquid container via the valve assembly. The signal may be suppressed by a timing circuit in the transmitter circuitry unless and until a liquid level change is sufficiently sustained. The receiver is also programmable to keep the liquid control valve open a predetermined amount of time or to close the valve upon receipt of a high liquid level signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2003Publication date: February 26, 2004Inventor: Michael L. Cazden
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Patent number: 6688329Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2001Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Assignee: C. Cowles & CompanyInventors: Christopher L. Murray, Richard A. Lyons
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Patent number: 6675826Abstract: A flood prevention system includes a double-latching solenoid valve that shuts off a water supply line in response to a moisture sensor detecting a leak in a plumbing system. The double-latching feature provides the solenoid's plunger with two positions of equilibrium. This minimizes electrical power consumption so that the flood prevention system can be battery operated. To minimize a buildup of hard water deposits, the valve includes a flexible diaphragm and is cycled periodically regardless of whether flooding occurs. The sensor includes multiple methods of mounting to a floor.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2003Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Inventors: Frederic M. Newman, Richie D. Sites
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Patent number: 6671894Abstract: A toilet control system includes a sensor mounted on a bowl of a toilet near a top rim of the bowl and which is connected to a control valve unit which is fluidically interposed between a water supply tank and the bowl of the toilet. The control valve unit is normally open to permit flow of water from the water supply tank to the bowl, but is closed when water is sensed near the rim of the bowl to prevent further flow of water to the bowl from the water supply tank.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2003Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Ernest Sigrist