Abstract: The optimum electrolyte level sensing method and the automatic topping up apparatus for storage wet cell are disclosed. The difference in the conductivities between the distilled water and the electrolyte is utilized. An injection outlet portion (15), an adjust ring (14), and two wires are used to detect the optimum electrolyte level to supply distilled water to storage cells. The feedback control to maintain the constant optimum electrolyte level of storage cells is carried out by a single microprocessor.

Abstract: An apparatus periodically samples fluid flowing across a surface by providing a plate for mounting flush with the surface. The plate has an aperture extending there through and a tubular body extends from the around the aperture with a passage in communication with the aperture. A sample collection vessel is removably attached to the body to receive fluid passing through the aperture and the passage. A valve member closes the aperture and moves when driven by an electromechanical device. The electromechanical device operates the valve member to alternately open and close the aperture during a defined sampling time to acquire a plurality of samples of the fluid flowing across the surface.

Abstract: A buffer system for separating an aseptic fluid handling assembly from a drain includes a fluid receiving housing in fluid flow communication with a fluid discharge outlet of the aseptic fluid handling assembly. A trapped fluid discharge opening near the bottom of the housing, includes a tube which extends above the bottom into a baffle container. The baffle container is in the form of an enclosure having openings at the bottom thereof to admit fluids contained in the housing. A discharge conduit is in fluid flow communication with the discharge opening. A first fluid level detector in the housing activates at least one valve in the discharge conduit by a control which opens and closes the valve in response selected fluid levels detected by the fluid level detector. In a preferred embodiment the first fluid level detect detects a fluid level exceeding a preselected depth in the housing and a second fluid level detector detects fluid levels dropping below a second preselected level in the housing.

Abstract: A fail-safe fluid transfer control apparatus has full redundancy in the response to various inputs such as overfill probe signals, ground detection signals, and the like. Independent microprocessor controllers independently evaluate the inputs and each output control signals to close a respective relay when the inputs indicate that fluid transfer may commence. The relays are arranged in series such that both must be closed for a fluid transfer to commence. The control signals from each controller include a static signal and an alternating signal, both of which must be properly output to close its respective relay. Each controller monitors the state of each relay, and discontinues its control signals if either relay appears to be malfunctioning. Each controller runs an different, independently written firmware program to process the detected inputs to prevent a common firmware error.

Abstract: An electronic control for the operation of a beverage dispenser of the refrigerated ice bank type is shown. The control provides for reliable determinations of when ice production is needed and when it is not needed. A microprocessor receives information from an ice bank probe and from a temperature probe located within the ice bank. Data collected by the microprocessor from both the ice bank probe and the temperature probe is used to determine if the ice bank is either insufficient in size and should be increased or is of sufficient size such that the compressor can be turned off. A carbonator level probe is also shown and connected to the microprocessor.

Abstract: A machine for cooling and dispensing a product substantially behaving like a fluid, such as beverages or water-ice, comprises a base (11) and a tank (12) for treatment of the product to be dispensed. The tank is positioned on the base in a removable manner and heat exchange means (14) and a powered stirring element (15) are inserted thereinto. Also arranged in the tank (12) is a level probe (19) connected with control means (25) of the product level in the tank. The probe (19) has one detecting end (20) within the tank and an electrical-contact area (23) disposed on an external wall of the tank (12). Additionally, the base (11) bears an electrical-contact element (24) connected to the control means (25). On mounting of the tank (12) on the base (11), the contact area (23) of the probe (19) comes into electrical contact with the contact element (24) on the base so that the probe (19) is automatically connected in a detachable manner to the control means (25).

Abstract: A fluid level detection system (50) for ink in a printing press (10) having a vessel (58) having walls (60) defining a chamber (62), an elongated rotatable shaft (64) in the chamber (62), a motor (66) for rotating the shaft (64), an elongated flexible blade (68) affixed to the shaft 64 such that the motor (66) rotates the blade (68), and a proximity sensor (72) adjacent the walls (60) of the vessel (58) to detect the rotating blade (68) in the absence of ink at the level of the blade (68), with the blade (68) flexing in the presence of ink such that the sensor (72) does not detect the blade (68).

Abstract: A method for controlling a water supply valve of a washing machine uses an interrupt signal supplied from an interrupt signal generating section to an external interrupt terminal of a microcomputer to monitor whether a power fails or not, and uses a power source maintained for a certain time from the time of the power failure before a reset signal is generated, thereby closing the water supply valve. Thus, the water supply valve continuously maintains the open state even when the power fails during supplying the water to thereby prevent the continuous supply of the water within a washing tub.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling level of cryogenic liquid in a vessel includes a transfer duct to a pressure supply tank. Pressure pulses are applied to the tank at one rate when the level is below a primary sensor in the vessel, and at a lower rate when the level is above the sensor, so as to compensate for intrinsic declination of the level. At startup a constant pressure is applied to the tank until the level reaches a lower sensor, and a relief valve over the tank is opened when the level overshoots to an upper sensor. Turbulence in the vessel is reduced by a pair of coaxial baffles at the liquid inlet to the vessel, and by a housing with tubular extensions enveloping the sensors.

Abstract: A bath overflow alarm comprised of a housing having a pair of slots formed through a lower end thereof. The housing has a waterproof battery chamber therein for active receipt of a battery. The housing is adapted for securement to a bathtub. A pair of water contacts are secured within the housing. An alarm mechanism is secured within the housing disposed above the pair of water contacts. Once water enters into the housing through the slots, the water contacts signal the alarm mechanism which will alert a person as to a dangerous water level.

Abstract: A refrigeration system includes a phase separator disposed in flow communication with a pulse width modulated solenoid valve. A thermistor is disposed in the phase separator and is submerged in either refrigerant liquid or refrigerant vapor during operation, with the electrical resistance thereof correspondingly changing. In an exemplary embodiment, a second thermistor is used in conjunction with the first thermistor and is disposed in the vapor inside the phase separator to provide a reference. By comparing voltage developed across the two thermistors during operation it may be determined whether one or both of the thermistors are submersed in the vapor. The duty cycle of the valve may therefore be increased when one of the thermistors is submerged in the liquid, and decreased when both thermistors are submersed in the vapor.

Abstract: A solenoid valve for a water purification system. The solenoid valve contains a fluid valve which can move between an opened position and a closed position, and a coil which moves the valve to the open position when a first voltage is supplied to the coil and maintains the valve in the open position as a second voltage is supplied to the coil. The coil is coupled to a control circuit which initially supplies the first voltage to the coil when the valve is to be opened, and then reduces the first voltage to the second voltage after the valve is in the open position.

Abstract: A system is provided for containing material leaks which occur while a shipping container is being loaded or unloaded. The system includes portable dome that is placed on top of a shipping container, covering the container's inlet or outlet valves. If a leak is detected, the flow of material is stopped, and the leaked material is either absorbed or neutralized.

Abstract: A device and method for containing spills and leaks from fuel handling equipment is provided in which differential sensing means detect the presence of hydrocarbons and nonhydrocarbons such as water. Signals and the responses generated according to them may depend upon the nature and quantity of the substance contained in the device. Signalling may be conducted remotely and excavation and reconstruction of service station grounds is minimized with these devices. In a preferred embodiment, the device is made of unitary construction with the differential sensing means formed as a portion of the surface of a containment vessel.

Abstract: A hot air furnace humidifier has a heat chamber and a duct connecting the chamber to a furnace. The chamber has a water retaining vessel, preferable provided with a disposable liner. A pair of level sensors register the minimum and maximum water level within the vessel. The water level sensors can be either in proximity with the water or submerged within the water. A heating element incorporates a heat sensing device and can be provided with a thermostat and in proximity with the water or submerged. A water refill pipe is provided with an on/off device and automatically refills the vessel in response to the electronic controls. The electronic controls are connected to the water level sensors, heating element and water refill pipe. The controls can include a humidistat and/or be incorporated with the furnace controls.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a liquid level sensor control circuit of a bioassay apparatus for controlling a position of a sampling probe with respect to a surface of a liquid in a container. The apparatus includes a sampling probe, an oscillator circuit coupled to the sampling probe for producing a first output signal having a constant frequency, a comparator coupled to the oscillator circuit for comparing the amplitude of the first output signal to a first reference amplitude and for producing a change signal when the amplitude of the first output signal changes with respect to the reference amplitude, and a controller responsive to the change signal for controlling the position of the sampling probe with respect to the surface of the liquid.

Abstract: A system for automatically preventing the discharge of spilled oil from electrical distribution substation equipment into streams or ground water. The system utilizes a containment basin, sump, electric operated water drain valve and a thermal dispersion type oil/water interface detector. The oil/water interface probe is placed at a specified height in the sump. It is capable of determining if the probe is in oil, water or air. The interface detector along with other relays will allow water to be draped from the containment basin but prevent oil from being discharged. The system will also initiate an alarm which may locally or remotely warn that a spill has occurred.

Abstract: A condensate removal device for capturing, measuring and removing condensate from a fluid system having air or gas under pressure. The device purges only condensate on demand without loss of relative pressure inherent within the system. A single sensing probe extends into a condensate collection reservoir sensing the low and high level of condensate activating a diaphragm type discharge value venting condensate from the reservoir. Once condensate levels fall below a pre-determined level within the reservoir the value is closed awaiting accumulation of additional condensate before cycling again.

Abstract: An ice level sensor includes three capacitive plates for sensing the level of ice cubes in an ice tray or ice bucket. The ice level sensor preferably includes a relay for turning off the ice maker when a particular ice level is reached. The three capacitive plates provide immunity to frost collection because frost will collect on all plates equally. Preferably, the capacitive sensor is positioned with one plate next to the ice bucket and two plates positioned above the ice bucket. Preferably, the ice sensor may be retrofitted to existing refrigerators by mounting the capacitor plates to the rear freezer wall, and connecting AC input wires to the ice maker through a relay in the capacitor sensor.

Abstract: A liquid level detecting device having an overflow reservoir, a flow restriction means and a level detecting means. The reservoir defines a cavity for collecting an electrically-conductive liquid overflowing from a container. This reservoir, which has a low level position associated therewith, includes inlet means through which the overflowing liquid enters, outlet means through which the collected liquid exits, and vent means through which built-up gases escape.Flow restriction means controls the rate at which the collected liquid exits through the reservoir's outlet means. Flow restriction means is calibrated such that the rate at which liquid exits the reservoir does not exceed the rate at which liquid overflows therein.In one embodiment, level detecting means includes a capacitive sensor switch which is fixedly secured to the reservoir to detect whether the liquid level is below the reservoir's low level position.

Abstract: Liquid supply apparatus is disclosed for controlling the supply of liquid to humidifier apparatus. The liquid supply apparatus has a chamber with an inlet through which a liquid such as water is supplied to the chamber. The chamber has a flow detector to detect liquid entering the chamber and a level detector near the base of the chamber in a narrow portion of the chamber which, in conjunction with a calibrated orifice at the chamber outlet, provides an indication of the rate of liquid flow from the chamber. Control of supply of liquid is performed by a magnetically activated valve member.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for use in monitoring the level and temperature of a liquid flowing through a horizontally extending line that is to remain full of liquid, wherein the temperature of the liquid is to be maintained below an established acceptable value. The apparatus includes a chamber interposed in the line and formed with an enlarged transverse cross-sectional area, and is disposed at least partially above the line. The chamber is closed except for an inlet and outlet in fluid communication with the line. A sensing assembly is provided within the chamber for sensing the level and temperature of the liquid flowing through the chamber. A control assembly measures the liquid level and temperature sensed by the sensing assembly and activates an alarm when either the level of the liquid in the chamber drops below a predetermined level or the temperature exceeds a predetermined value above the established acceptable value.

Abstract: An irrigation water control gate for controlling the amount of water delied downstream. The gate includes a frame and a pair of panels in the frame hingedly connected at adjoining horizontal side edges and forming a wedge shape extending upstream. The upper panel forms the crest of the gate which is raised or lowered on cables. Water level sensing means positioned above the crest for movement with the crest activates control means and cable driving means to move the crest so that water flowing over the crest is maintained at a constant depth.

Abstract: A system for automatically maintaining a desired water level in a swimming pool, includes a float chamber coupled in fluid communication with a suction tube that is coupled between the pool and a pool filter pump. A float carrying a magnetic element is disposed in the float chamber. A magnetic switch is located in a fixed position outside of the float chamber at a level corresponding to the desired water level. The magnetic switch assumes a first state if the pool water level is equal to or higher than the desired water level and assumes a second state if the pool water level is lower than the desired water level. A solenoid valve is connected between a pressurized water source and an intermediate portion of a return tube returning pumped water to the pool. A circuit is coupled to the valve and the magnetic switch to close the valve when the pump is operating, and open the valve when the pump is not running and the magnetic switch is in the second state.

Abstract: Disclosed in a Rainfall Detection and Disable Control System which provides detection and a visual display of both a trace level and a variable accumulation level of natural rainfall. The dual interacting rainfall detection system provides a unique sprinkler system control function that disables sprinkler system watering both during and after a rain shower, based upon the amount of rainfall accumulation, and user selectable disable time periods. A short variable disable time period is initiated by the trace rainfall detection probe and a long variable time period is initiated by the accumulation rainfall detection probe. The trace rainfall detection probe provides the control function of preventing watering, at the onset of, and during a rain shower. The short disable time period of the trace detection function allows the next watering cycle to occur, if no significant rainfall accumulation is detected.

Abstract: An automatic drain device in an air compressor system includes an electrode sensor in a liquid collection cell. An electronic control detects an electrical change in the electrode sensor resulting from contact with liquid in the liquid collection cell and energizes a drain valve for a predetermined time effective to drain the liquid collection cell. A cycle timer triggers the energization of the drain valve when the electrode sensor fails to provide the required electrical change for a predetermined cycle time. Test inputs permit driving the electronic control to simulate sensing of liquid, and also permit energization of the drain valve without involving the remainder of the electronic control.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for controlling an automatic timer regulated sprinkler system; wherein, the apparatus (10) comprises a float member (60) disposed within a multi-stage screen member (30) secured within a receptacle member (20); and, wherein, the float member is operatively associated with a switch member (50) for controlling the flow of electrical current to the sprinkler system in response to the level of collected water within the receptacle member. Another apparatus (200) for controlling an automatic timer regulated sprinkler system; wherein, the apparatus (200) comprises a water-amount-responsive means (204) containing water absorbing material; and, wherein, the water-amount-responsive means is operatively associated with a switch means (203) for controlling the flow of electrical current to the automatic sprinkler system in response to the change in gravitational force or expansile force produced by water on the water-amount-responsive means.

Abstract: An air conditioner condensate sump pump controller comprising a self heated PTC resistor located in the sump including an ambient compensation circuit. When the condensate reaches the resistor level due to decreased resistance the sump pump is energized reduce the condensate level.

Abstract: A pasta cooking system including an automatic control which permits a cooking vat containing water to be automatically filled to a predetermined level in response to turning the system on, maintained at a constant level by the addition of water during repeated cooking cycles, remove the starchy froths resulting from a cooking cycle in response to a manual input by adding additional water to cause water to rise above the automatically maintained level and overflow a skimming weir, drained by manually opening a valve and automatically rinsed by leaving the control system on during the drain time as water is continually added by the automatic fill system to clean the pot. The water is introduced by the automatic system in such a manner to cause surface agitation during the skim procedure, and to rinse the walls of the vat during the drain cycle. A water level sensing uses a single stainless steel probe and a low voltage a.c. current between the probe and a stainless steel vat to prevent cathartic corrosion.

Abstract: The system includes a first module having a paint mixing and storage tank at a list location remote from any paint application point of use. The first module includes a remote pump for delivering paint at a first pressure from the tank to a local atmospheric pressure receptacle disposed at a second location in general proximity with paint application points of use. Excess paint delivered to the local receptacle is returned to the tank at the remote location. A secondary module includes a local pump to draw paint from the local receptacle for discharge into a main paint supply header at a third pressure. At least one separate and independent branch paint supply line is taken from the header for each spray booth, or groups of spray booths if located physically in close proximity to one another. Each of the branch lines is returned separately and independently through a back pressure control valve to the local atmospheric pressure receptacle.

Abstract: A system for containing oil in a containment tank received from a transformer bank for a hydroelectric power generating station. A capacitance proximity sensor is mounted at a predetermined height within the tank and is operative to sense the passage of an oil/water interface in close proximity to the sensor to generate an output control signal for controlling a solenoid operated valve for the tank to close the valve and prevent spillage of oil into the environment. Collected water can be drained from the tank to a point where the oil/water interface has been reduced to a predetermined height within the tank, thereby leaving adequate remaining oil containing capacity within the tank in the event of further oil discharge from a transformer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining whether a fluid, such as a refrigerant, is a liquid or a gas. To determine whether the fluid at a predetermined level (14) of a storage container (20) is a liquid or a gas, fluid is withdrawn from the container at the predetermined level, depressurized under conditions that would cause it to become a gas if it is a liquid before such depressurization, then the temperature of the fluid after depressurization is measured and compared to a reference temperature that is or is related to the temperature of the fluid in the container. If the temperature of the fluid after depressurization and the reference temperature are approximately equal, one can conclude that the fluid withdrawn from the predetermined level is a gas. If the temperature of the fluid after depressurization is considerably lower than the reference temperature, one can conclude that the fluid withdrawn from the predetermined level is a liquid.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for use in monitoring the level and temperature of a refrigerant, wherein the temperature of the liquid phase of the refrigerant is to be maintained below an established acceptable value. The apparatus includes a chamber interposed in a liquid line of a cooling system, wherein the chamber has a transverse cross-sectional area greater than the area of the liquid line, and is disposed at least partially above the line. A temperature sensor and a heater are provided within the chamber above the height of the liquid line and the sensor is connected to an alarm through a control which measures the temperature of the sensor and activates the alarm when the sensor temperature exceeds a predetermined value above the established acceptable value of the refrigerant 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 apparatus controls the treatment of water that flows through a cooling system. The electrical conductivity of the water is sensed. A valve control opens a system drain valve when the sensed conductivity is greater than a threshold, and closes the drain valve when the conductivity drops below the threshold by a given amount. The water drained form the system is replenished through an inlet and a mechanism measures the volume of water added to the cooling system. Chemicals to treat the water are fed into the system when specified volumes of water have been added. The sensing of conductivity can be inhibited for a certain period following the application of the chemicals. A possible system malfunction is indicated when the conductivity does not drop below the threshold after the drain valve is open for a given period of time.

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 apparatus is provided which includes a reaction cartridge having a plurality of reaction wells having different reagents disposed thereon, at least one well adapted to receive a sample, a well containing particles adapted to bind to the sample and which have the capability of being separated from cells which are not bound to the separation particles and at least one fluorophore adapted to bind to a specific type of cell in the sample, and a wash area adapted for washing a probe. An image forming device is provided to detect images which indicate whether specific reactions have occurred in each of the reaction wells. The apparatus also includes a mechanism for dispensing and aspirating liquids including a mechanism for detecting liquid levels. The device further includes logic for analyzing the information received from the image detection apparatus and processing the information to generate a visual indication of the results of the assays being performed.

Abstract: A gas flow detection device having an inlet for connection to a source of gas and an outlet for connection to a gas-using appliance is disclosed. Gas for feeding a pilot flame of the appliance flows through a permanently open orifice. When the appliance is switched on the pressure at the devices outlet drops and a piston which is in a tube is lifted by gas pressure at the device's inlet. Gas then flows from the inlet to the outlet. A light source and a light sensitive cell provide a signal that indicates that the piston has lifted. A monitoring system which makes use of the signal provided by the cell is also disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus for controlling water supplied to a storage tank which comprises housing means for transferring water from a pressurized supply to a storage tank and having an extended portion adapted to water-tightly attach to an opening in a storage tank, a solenoid-operated on-off valve positioned with-in said housing and having a water inlet and a water outlet, electronic control means positioned with-in said housing and operatively-connected to said valve to control the opening and closing thereof, water inlet means mounted on said housing in fluid communication with said valve water inlet, water outlet means mounted in the extended portion of said housing in fluid communication with the valve water outlet; the extended portion of said housing means having a plurality of apertures therein to provide fluid communication between the interior and exterior of the housing extended portion, the apertures being positioned and arranged with respect to said water outlet means whereby pressurized water may enter a stora

Abstract: An automatic sensor system for detecting and adjusting a level of contents held within a reservoir is disclosed. The system has a sensor probe having a probe housing with opposing ends, an interior cavity that opens through one housing end, and a constantly open air vent aperture piercing the housing proximate the other housing end, included within the housing are lower and upper level detection contacts that communicate information about the detected level to a circuit that signals for a contents delivery source to send additional contents when needed.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for overriding an automatic timer controlled sprinkler system (100); wherein, the apparatus (10) comprises a float member (60) disposed within a two stage screen member (30) secured within a receptacle member (20); and, wherein, the float member (60) is operatively associated with a switch member (50) suspended above the receptacle member (20) for interrupting the flow of electrical current to an automatic timer controlled sprinkler system (100) in response to the level of collected rainwater within the receptacle member (20).

Abstract: A liquid level control principally for boiling water boilers sensitive to the presence or absence of liquid at an upper and at a lower control level. The control enables the boiler to be fired when liquid is at or above the upper level. It prevents firing and enables addition of make-up liquid when the liquid level is below the upper control level, except when the system indicates there is liquid at the upper control level, and that there is no liquid at the lower control level.

Abstract: A control circuit for a sump pump or other pump that controls the liquid level in a vessel. The liquid is maintained between upper and lower levels defined by probes in the vessel. The probes are associated with comparators and connect with one comparator input. The upper limit comparator connects with the gate of an SCR which supplies current to the lower limit comparator and also to a relay which controls the on/off condition of the pump. The output of the lower limit comparator controls a switching transistor which is arranged in a series circuit with the SCR and relay coil. Once the SCR is conductive, it is latched in the conductive state until the transistor is made nonconductive by the lower limit comparator. In a sump pump application, latching of the SCR allows the pump to remain activated after the liquid level is reduced below the upper probe.

Abstract: A water leakage detector is disclosed herein sensitive to the presence of moisture, having an elongated sensor strip comprising a pair of conductors separated by insulation. Each conductor includes an electrode coupling with a wire lead extending via a cable to an electrical plug. A circuit housing is provided having an audible alarm operably connected to an electrical socket adapted to detachably connect with the plug. A low voltage battery and auxiliary output socket are carried on the housing and connected with the alarm and the first mentioned socket whereby the presence of moisture across the pair of sensor conductors activates the alarm. A battery test pair of electrodes is provided to manually test battery condition.

Abstract: This invention relates to a pressure equalizing vessel for a hemodialysis concentrate. To ensure the supply of concentrate at a constant pressure to the concentrate pump for preparing dialysis fluid, even in cases where a central concentrate supply system is used, the present invention suggests that a cylindrical upright vessel 1 whose lower portion is provided with a concentrate inlet and whose upper portion has arranged thereon a venting means 4 should have inserted thereinto a concentrate suction tube 7 which is equipped with at least one level sensor (FIG. 1).

Abstract: A washing machine which comprises a fixed outer tub, a washing or drying tub which is rotatably provided in the outer tub, a first electrode which is provided at the upper portion of the outer tub and connected to a high-frequency signal source, a second electrode which is provided at the upper portion of the washing or drying tub and forms an input condenser for high-frequency signal input together with the first electrode, a third electrode which is provided at the upper portion of the outer tub and connected to a high-frequency signal detecting circuit, a fourth electrode which is provided at the upper portion of the washing or drying tub and forms the output condenser for getting a high-frequency signal together with the third electrode, and water-level detecting means which is provided at a predetermined position of the washing or drying tub in electrical communication with the second and fourth electrodes so as to designate change of impedance defined between the second and fourth electrodes in accordan

Abstract: A back-up butterfly valve installed in a sewer pipe which will automatically close when sewage water back flows due to heavy rains thereby preventing sewage-laden liquids in the lower levels of residential homes and commercial buildings. The valve is motor actuated and is controlled by a liquid sensor disposed downstream. A clock is utilized to actuate a system by which the valve is opened and closed periodically preventing the valve from sticking or freezing which would leave the valve inoperative.

Abstract: A self washing water storage tank has a floor, a cylindrical, generally upright, peripheral concrete wall which sits on the floor and extends around and defines a water storage chamber, and a concrete roof that is mounted atop the wall in substantial covering relationship to the chamber. The roof is essentially flat and has an internal surface which faces the chamber. The tank is arranged such that during the fill cycle the water level rises to a high water level which is above the interior surface of the roof so that such surface is washed during each fill cycle to prevent damage from corrosive gases which may escape from the water and accumulate on the interior surfaces of the tank above the water level.

Abstract: A pressure-activated diaphragm valve which when installed in the main up-stream side of a pressurized line, responds to signals from a control unit to shut off the main supply line and at the same time, opens a drain port on the down-stream side of the valve. When used as a freeze protection system, the main water line is shut off and the drain port opened before the freeze point, thereby, eliminating water damage from frozen, broken pipes. The valve also is self-cleaning and has a magnetic plug to remove and keep metallic particles out of the control chamber and the control unit has automatic and manual modes.

Abstract: A water distiller has a steam chamber that includes a tray for containing water to be distilled. Water is conveyed from a source to the tray for distillation. A valve operates in an open position to convey water to the tray and a closed position to block the passage of water to the tray. A heating element means extends in the steam chamber for submersion in the water carried by the tray. The heating element is operable within a range of temperatures to heat the water in the tray. The heating element includes a main body portion having an axis that extends in a plane generally parallel to the water in the tray and a section havign an axis that is deflected above the axis of the main body portion. A heat sink surrounds the deflected section of the heating element means. A heat sensor detects the temperature of the heat sink. A control connects the valve and the heat sensor means. The control closes the valve when the sensed temperature of the heat sink is equal to or less than a predetermined amount.