Abstract: A faucet thermal monitoring system for verifying the temperature of water being delivered through a faucet. The faucet thermal monitoring system includes a housing which is couplable to a spout of a faucet and thermally conductive such that heat is conducted between water flowing through the spout and the housing and a liquid crystal temperature panel coupled to the housing providing a visual indication of the temperature of the water flowing through the tap.

Abstract: A label is manufactured for permanent mounting to a gas flow regulator. The label is made from a material having a surface that can be permanently colored with a color layer and permanently etched, such as an aluminum alloy. The color layer can be anodized with a color layer to various colors. The etching can includes an etched bar code, which is readable by typical bar code readers, or an etched design. The label is formed as a continuous walled structure, such as a cylindrical tube.

Abstract: An electronic system with a control box. Pressure sensors are coupled to the electrical lines to determine and display pressure. Flow metering devices are coupled to the electrical ines to determine and display the flow rate. Liquid bridging sensors include four liquid bridging sensors in four sites with a valve actuated by electro-mechanical means. The valve located within the water line with a voice-auto dialer allowing data from the system to be transferred via a phone line. An electrical circuit includes a port for coupling with a conventional central computer and has computing software allowing the storing of the rate of flow of water. An internet program is adapted to notify the user and authorities upon emergency shut-off and provide the pressure and flow rates of the water lines and if the liquid bridging sensors have detected leaks. Finally included is control software to program and shut off the water supply.

Abstract: A gas chromatograph with multiple valves is disclosed. An embodiment of the multi-valve gas chromatograph includes multiple valves, multiple thermal conductivity detectors (TCD's), and a manifold. This allows separation and measurement of a gas sample in one compact integrated unit. The unit is particularly desirable because the solenoids associated with the valves are attached directly to the underneath of the manifold, thus eliminating the need for tubing between the solenoids and the valves.

Abstract: An apparatus for enhancing the water quality in a subterranean pressurized water system is disclosed and provides a discharge passage control via a valve that can be actuated electronically at the location of the valve or remotely. The discharge through the apparatus permits the flow of water in the subterranean pressurized water system and a corresponding discharge of contaminants and increased concentration of disinfectants supplied to the subterranean pressurized water system by the water system manager. The discharge can occur directly to a below ground drain such as a storm drain, sewer or drain field.

Abstract: A gas chromatograph with multiple valves is disclosed. An embodiment of the multi-valve gas chromatograph includes multiple valves and multiple thermal conductivity detectors (TCD's). This allows separation and measurement of a gas sample in one compact integrated unit.

Abstract: A pressure relief valve monitoring device is provided. The monitoring device includes a sensor input module located proximate to a pressure relief valve, a microcontroller located within the sensor input module, and a real time clock/calendar also located within the sensor input module.

Abstract: An instrument station in the form of a single-piece body is provided that incorporates ports for a flow measuring device or a piping accessory, including a thermometer, a drain valve, an air vent, a pressure or temperature transmitter, or other measuring device. A balancing type valve may be connected to the instrument station to allow the flow to be adjusted. The instrument station has an inner specific diameter and is attached to a pipe with an equal inner diameter. The pipe section typically has a length that is at least the sum of five inner specific diameters of the body of the instrument station.

Abstract: Valve for regulating and measuring the flowrate of a fluid through a header (1) and a bypass duct (2,2b) inside the said header, comprising means (10,10a) for shutting off the aperture (2b) of the bypass duct (2), which are movable axially upon operation of associated actuating means (30), means (44) for detecting the pressure exerted by the fluid flow, an instrument (43,43a) for measuring the flowrate of the fluid, the scale (43a) of which is provided on the external surface of said actuating means (30), said means (10,10a) for shutting off the aperture (2b) of the bypass duct (2) being joined to said actuating means (30) so that rotation of the latter results in only the axial movement of the former and the shut-off means (10,10a) are independent of the measuring instrument (43,43a) during their movement in the axial direction.

Abstract: An automated apparatus for cleaning golf balls constructed of light weight, portable type material and operable via standard battery power. The apparatus utilizes a housing having a fluid reservoir in the lower portion for holding a cleaning fluid, and a screw-type driven auger along with a pair of driven brushes and a fluid spray nozzle in the upper portion. A driven pump transports the cleaning fluid from the reservoir to the nozzle, which sprays the cleaning fluid on the golf ball as the auger and brushes engage the ball and remove the soil, respectively. Multiple sensing means are employed to energize and disable the apparatus upon the occurrence of predetermined events.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and means for monitoring a control apparatus having at least one actuating drive, a valve, a spindle, and a positioner, whereby a reversal of direction of a valve spindle, by means of manipulated variable changes that are well-defined, reproducible and uniform, supplies useful information for the monitoring of the state of the control apparatus. For example, a comparison with target values and a diagnosis can take place by means of measurement and processing of valve positions (h) and the times (t) at which the valve positions are assumed, during the reversal motion. In addition, during times of uniform motion, the speed of movement or, respectively, in the case of predetermined valve positions, the allocated runtime, can additionally be determined. Moreover, given an inverted direction of motion further diagnosis possibilities can be supplied by means of repetition of the measurement and processing.

Abstract: The hydraulic multiway valve comprises a control piston (main piston 3), which is displaceable against the force of a spring (main spring 18) by the plunger of a magnet (12) from its first position (closing position) to its second position (opening position). In the closing position, a pressure chamber (7) with a pump connection (P) is closed toward a consumer chamber (8), and the consumer chamber with a consumer (A) is opened toward a return flow chamber (20) and a reservoir connection (R). In the opening position, the consumer chamber (8) is closed toward the return flow chamber (20). To this end, the consumer chamber (8) and the return flow chamber (20) are arranged at the opposite ends of the main piston (3), namely the consumer chamber (8) on the side facing the magnet, and the return flow chamber (20) on the side facing away therefrom. A central channel (21) extends through the main piston. The central channel interconnects the consumer chamber (8) and the return flow chamber (20).

Abstract: An indicator assembly includes a conduit segment located in place along a gas supply line served by a pressurized tank. A pressure actuated switch of the assembly closes upon sensing gas pressure in the conduit segment to close a circuit including a battery and an indicator to signal a user that the supply line is pressurized which can occur when proper shut down procedure is not accomplished or a faulty control valve. A bleed valve on the conduit segment permits venting of a pressurized gas line. A check valve of the assembly prevents erroneous activation of the indicator by residual gas trapped in the supply line after shut down.

Abstract: A valve safety lockout device and a method for using such device to tamper-proof a control valve are disclosed. In the device, a hollow toroidal-shaped body that is divided into two equal halves circumferentially forms the body for the lockout device. A plastic molded-in hinge connects the two equal halves at one end, and a male latch member and a female latch member are each formed at an opposite end of the two halves such that once they are engaged together, the two halves cannot be detached without destroying the latch members and thus making it visible to an operator. The plastic hollow body of the lockout device can be suitably molded of a plastic material of high rigidity including a molded-in plastic hinge connecting the two halves together. The rigidity of the plastic material should be such that the lockout device cannot be compressed or squeezed in order to turn the control valve handle.

Abstract: Alarms for testing sensors, particularly those used in fire-suppression systems, are described. In one aspect of the invention, the alarm includes an audio and/or a visual indicator operably coupled to the housing of a sensor. The audio indicator may be a speaker that beeps when the sensor is activated. The visual indicator may be one or more LEDs that are illuminated when the sensor is activated. The alarm also can be used to determine whether power and ground conductors extending to the sensor are properly connected. Additionally the alarm can be used to determine whether one or more conductors extending from the sensor to the control panel are properly connected. Certain applications of the invention are intended primarily for use with existing fire-suppression-systems. The invention also can be employed in new fire-suppression system installations using a dry-contact circuit embodiment of the invention (FIG. 5).

Abstract: The valve is designed for the ejection of a plurality of different gases from within the valve, simultaneously, by having a plurality of plenum chambers within the chamber of the valve, and a poppet therein, that are charged with gases under pressure. The gases are sealed within the respective plenum chambers by the action of a spring that urges the poppet against a gas exit port associated with each plenum chamber. Ejection of the gases is accomplished by the application of an electrical current into a coil surrounding the poppet which produces an electromagnetic field that causes a non-ferrous hammer to be driven away from the coil and strike the poppet. Upon being struck by the hammer, the poppet is driven off of the plurality of gas exit ports thereby allowing the gases to be ejected, simultaneously, from the respective plenum chambers into a region of lower pressure.

Abstract: A diagnostic test unit for deterministically measuring one or more parameters, such as dead band, dead time, response time, gain, or overshoot, of a process control device that is connected in a process control loop during operation of a process includes a switch controller, a signal generator, a switch, a response accumulator mechanism, and an analyzer mechanism. The switch controller monitors a process signal during operation of the process to determine whether the process signal is substantially stable. In the event that the process signal is substantially stable, the switch replaces a control signal with a diagnostic test signal generated by the signal generator. The response accumulator is in communication with the process control loop to obtain an indication of the response of the process control device to the diagnostic test signal. The analyzer unit then determines the device parameter from the test signal and the response indication.

Abstract: A system for detecting malfunctions of an exhaust switch-over valve of an internal combustion engine, which opens/closes a bypass exhaust gas passage branched from an exhaust pipe of the engine and storing an adsorbent that adsorbs unburned components of the exhaust gas generated by the engine when the engine is started. In the system, the entrance temperature and the exit temperature in the bypass exhaust gas passage are detected and compared with each other in a first detection period when the passage is opened and in a second detection period when the passage is closed. Based on this comparison, it is determined whether the valve malfunctions. Alternatively, the valve malfunction is determined by comparing the valve opening/closing state with an instruction to operate the valve. With this, little time lag exists in the detection, thereby improving malfunction detection accuracy.

Abstract: A method and a synthetic danger predicting and disaster preventing monitor system in which waterworks pipelines laid around under the ground or through a structure are employed in their entirety for a synthetic danger predicting alarm sensor to thereby predict a variety of occurable trouble, discover a sign of disastrous incidence early before a great accident results, and locate the place at which trouble occurs so that trouble remedying works are completed before a resultant great accident happens. Both end portions of piping 1 positioned across each of a great number of specific intervals (Nos. 1 to N) set at required portions of water distributing pipelines laid under the ground or through a structure are fitted with synthetic sensors S provided with detector portions for sound, radiation, heat, mechanical strain, electricity, magnetism and vibration.

Abstract: A valve position controller tuning method avoids impact of friction in valve positioner tuning by building a dynamic model of a valve positioner from a monotonic open-loop response of a valve stem position to a change in valve position controller output. To this end, a model form is selected based on the type of pneumatic actuator and relay that controls valve flow modulating of member motion, and the valve position controller is operated in an open-loop mode. The method includes changing a valve position controller output signal to cause the valve positioner to move a valve flow modulating member, connected to valve positioner, monotonically from one stuck position to another stuck position immediately after a motion in that same direction. When a valve stem position reaches a position threshold, a first valve stem position change and a corresponding time change are measured. The method includes measuring valve stem position changes at times that depend on the first measured time change.

Abstract: An automatic faucet device capable of cleaning and sterilizing a human body of a user with no stress given to the user. The device includes: a water supply head; a first solenoid valve interposed in the course of a pipe connecting the water supply head to a pre-cleaning water source; a second solenoid valve interposed in the course of a pipe connecting the water supply head to an ozone-water source; and a sensor for detecting the presence of a substance such as a hand of a human body under a discharge port of the water supply head. The first solenoid valve is opened for a specific period of time A in response to a signal detected by the sensor, and the second solenoid valve is opened for a specific period of time C after an elapse of a specific period of time B since starting of the opening of the first solenoid valve.

Abstract: A system for metering a fluid, such as a catalyst in an industrial chemical process plant, includes a controller, a drive pump assembly and an injection pump assembly. The drive pump assembly forces reciprocation of the injection pump assembly via a controlled flow of hydraulic fluid. The injection pump assembly includes a drive cylinder and at least one injection section. The drive cylinder receives pressurized fluid from the drive pump assembly and causes metered fluid to be drawn into and expelled by the injection section. The position of reciprocating components of the injection pump assembly is detected between stroke limits and converted to a velocity signal. Closed-loop control of the flow from the injection pump assembly is implemented by the controller via the drive pump assembly based upon the actual velocity of the reciprocating components of the injection pump assembly and a commanded velocity.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining valves in a water distribution system is the subject matter. A description is prepared of each valve in the system. An individual identifying symbol is assigned to each valve. The identifying symbol and the valve individual description and location, is loaded into a computer database. A group of valves in the system is selected to define an inspection route. A portable computer is loaded with the information regarding each valve along the inspection route. A valve turning machine is positioned adjacent to a selected valve. The valve turning machine includes an identification reader, a timer and the portable computer. A reader identifies a select valve by means of its symbol and the symbol is recorded in the portable computer. The turning machine is connected to the stem of the selected valve to turn the stem in a selected direction. The number of revolutions of the valve stem is counted and recorded in the portable computer.

Abstract: A sealing article 17 is provided in the opening edge of a depression 2c provided in a manifold 2 to connect a supply connector 16 and a receiving connector 44 in an air-tight manner. A solenoid section 33, in which a solenoid 31 in each of pilot valve 21a and 21b and a receiving connector 44 that supplies power to connector 31 are sealed into a synthetic resin 45, is provided in a transfer valve 3A. Solenoid section 33 has a lamp circuit board 49 mounted on its outer surface to receive power from receiving connector 44, and includes power supply indicator lamps 48; and a cover 50, covering the whole of lamp circuit board 49, mounted to form an air-tight seal on its outer surface via a gasket 52.

Abstract: A faucet with multiple water discharges includes a housing, an input water connection for said housing, an unfiltered water discharge and a filtered water discharge. There is a water filter within the housing and a valve within the housing which is connected to each water discharge. There is an unfiltered water flow path from the input water connection to the valve and a filtered water flow path from the input water connection, through the filter, to the valve. A manual control element, accessible from the exterior of the housing, operates the valve to direct filtered water to the filtered water discharge and unfiltered water to the unfiltered water discharge. There is an electrical circuit positioned within the housing. The circuit includes a display and the circuit is responsive to operation of the manual control to cause the circuit to operate the display only during the discharge of filtered water.

Abstract: An irrigation control system including an irrigation controller, a portable data shuttle, and a personal computer. The user creates a watering program comprising watering schedules by using a graphical user-friendly interface of the personal computer. The watering program is then downloaded into the portable data shuttle. The portable data shuttle is coupled to an irrigation controller and a first watering schedule is downloaded from the portable data shuttle into the irrigation controller in a matter of seconds. At a later time, the data shuttle automatically downloads a second watering schedule replacing the first schedule, thereby updating the irrigation programming. For example, a new watering schedule may be automatically downloaded at preselected intervals to accommodate the changing seasons. The portable data shuttle includes voltage regulation circuits so that it can receive power from either the personal computer or the irrigation controller.

Abstract: A method for monitoring the actual flow of a gas into a vacuum facility, which flow of gas resulting from setting a desired flow of gas by means of at least one adjustable mass flow controller, interconnected between said facility and a pressurized reservoir arrangement for said gas.

Abstract: A line, especially for delivery of liquefied gas at ambient temperature, has two solenoid valves connected in series with an intermediate section of the line between them. In normal operation when both valves are closed, the isolated intermediate section contains liquid which absorbs heat from the atmosphere and/or from a heater, and the resulting increase in pressure is detected by a pressure sensor. If either valve fails to close fully to shut off flow, the intermediate section is not then isolated, so the absence of a signal from the sensor (the valves being set to close fully) indicates that at least one of them has not properly closed, and an alarm is given.

Abstract: A fluid control system that includes a fluid manifold having a plurality of manifold bodies fastened to each other end-to-end so as to form at least first and second passages extending continuously through the manifold and each of the bodies. A plurality of solenoid valves are each mounted on a side of an associated body with valve ports opening into the body to the fluid passage(s) that extend through the manifold. An electrical connection arrangement is mounted at one end of the manifold for receiving control signals from an external source. A plurality of circuitboards are disposed one within the second passage of each body, with each of the circuitboards including male and female connectors at opposed ends for connecting the circuitboards in series with each other to the electrical connection arrangement at the end of the manifold. A third connector on each circuitboard extends laterally from the circuitboard for connection to the solenoid valve mounted on the side of the associated manifold body.

Abstract: A safety hose system for use in delivering water from a water supply source to an inlet connector of a washing machine. In one embodiment, the system comprises a first connector engageable with the inlet connector of the washer machine and a second connector engageable with the water supply source. The system further comprises first hose having a first and seconds end connected to first and second connector, respectively. The system further comprises a second hose concentrically and sealed about the first hose and extending from said first connector to said second connector. The system further comprises an over-spill portion formed by said second hose being disposed within said first hose. The over-spill comprises a water reactive material which will change the color of any water entering into the over-spill portion, The system further comprises a third hose engaged with the second hose and in communication with the over-spill space.

Abstract: A valve manifold box system and method in which one or more dispense units dispense chemical to a plurality points of use. A fluid circuit is provided with valve manifolds connected in series by double walled conduits known as containment pipes. The fluid circuit is either in the form of a loop of a series of valve manifolds alternating with double walled piping so that each valve manifold is fed with chemical at opposite ends. Alternately, two dispense units could be connected to the end of an in-line type of fluid circuit. The valve manifolds are contained within valve boxes and the ends of the containment pipes are connected to the valve boxes. In this manner a leak in either the valve manifolds or the containment pipes collects within the valve boxes. Leak detectors are provided in the valve boxes and upon the sensing of a leak, the potentially leaking valve manifold as well as the associated, adjacent containment pipes feeding such valve manifold are isolated by isolation valves.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the recognition of the state of a solenoid valve supplies an on/off control switching current to the coil of the solenoid valve. A high level of current is caused to flow through the coil for switching the device on, and a reduced level of current is applied to the coil for holding the solenoid armature in its on position. If the armature should be caused to drop off from its on position by a mechanical shock, an increase in the frequency of the switching current occurs, due to the decrease in magnetic circuit inductance. This frequency increase is detected and compared to a predetermined threshold value. If the detected frequency exceeds the threshold value, it is recognized as an armature drop off, and corrective action can be taken immediately.

Abstract: A method of monitoring the status of a plurality of steam traps includes sensing with a monitor at least one process condition in each of a plurality of steam traps, transmitting radio frequency signals responsive to the sensed process condition of each steam trap with transmitters associated with the steam traps, and receiving the signals generated by the transmitters with a receiver. In one embodiment of the invention, the signals from at least some steam traps are received and retransmitted by a repeater positioned between the steam traps and the receiver.

Abstract: A collection system for collecting coolant and chips from a series of machine tools for cleaning the coolant in a filter system and recirculating the coolant back to the machine tools. The system includes a series of end-to-end connected shallow depth troughs disposed on the floor below the machine tools, defining a downward sloping gravity flow path. Flow nozzles are used to maintain sufficient flow velocity to move the collected debris and liquid to the end of the trough. Collector-deflector plates prevent oversplashing and misting out of the troughs. A flow nozzle control variably sets the diversion of clean coolant to the flow nozzles in accordance with the sensed velocity of the coolant in the trough.

Abstract: A piston valve for use in connection with the fire protection industry is disclosed which includes features for protecting against corrosion. A sacrificial zinc anode is mounted in the body of the valve under the handwheel. A polymeric piston is used which cannot corrode. A grease fitting protects against corrosion at the interface of the spindle and the valve body or bushing within the body.

Abstract: An above-ground oil storage tank with a valve and spill containment system. The tank comprises an internal secondary chamber which is readily accessible from the exterior. The secondary chamber houses an outlet valve and may also house sample taps, electronic level indicators and temperature gauges, keeping these components protected from the elements in a warm and dry environment. The secondary chamber also contains spills from the outlet valve and sample taps and may include means to conveniently recover spilled fluid. The tank may also include overflow control means which prevents overflow of fluid from the tank and directs such fluid into the secondary chamber, and loading means within the secondary chamber.

Abstract: Apparatus for protecting a fluid sensor against excess fluid pressure that includes a manifold having an internal fluid passage and a fluid inlet for connecting the passage to a fluid system. A piston is disposed within the passage adjacent to one end of the passage, and a rod extends from the piston through the passage. A valve is coupled to the rod at a position spaced from the piston, and is cooperable with the passage for selectively terminating fluid flow through the passage. A fluid sensor may be mounted on the manifold for communicating with fluid in the passage at an end thereof adjacent to the valve and remote from the piston. A spring resiliently engages the piston and urges the piston, rod and valve toward the end of the passage to open the valve. Fluid pressure at the inlet sufficient to overcome forces applied to the piston by the spring functions to close the valve and thereby to isolate the sensor from the fluid inlet.

Abstract: A trap apparatus associated with a drain comprising a fluid inlet, a first chamber, second chamber, a fluid outlet and a structure for retaining fluid. The fluid inlet is capable of accepting in flowing fluid. The first chamber member is associated with the fluid inlet. The second chamber member is associated with the first chamber member and is joined thereto at a transition region. This transition region is configured to facilitate radial flow from the first chamber member through the transition region and into the second chamber member. The fluid outlet is associated with the second chamber member. The retaining structure retains fluid in the transition region so as to maintain the transition region submerged. The invention further includes a drainage trap.

Abstract: A flow control valve assembly is adapted for use with a water conveying device which is provided with a supply channel, a valve chamber, first and second outlet passages communicated fluidly with the valve chamber, and a mounting hole. The flow control valve assembly is mounted to the water conveying device at the mounting hole with the use of a tubular mount, and includes a piston shaft movable between a first valve position, where water from the supply channel flows through the second outlet passage, and a second valve position, where water from the supply channel flows through the first outlet passage. The flow control valve assembly further includes a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of water in the valve chamber, and an indicator unit associated operably with the temperature sensor so as to indicate the water temperature in the valve chamber thereon.

Abstract: The present invention is intended to provide an apparatus capable of detecting an air tube-detached state when said air tube has been detached from an air-actuated valve in order that the same air-actuated valve is caused to assume a closed state. The present invention relates to an air tube connection state detecting apparatus 10 for detecting whether the fore end of an air tube 56 for supplying compressed air to an air-actuated valve 16 for a gas container 12 is connected to said air-actuated valve 16 or not. The air tube connection state detecting apparatus comprises a to-be-contacted member 82, provided at a predetermined position separate from said air-actuated valve 16, to which the fore end of said air tube 56 is to be connected; and a detection means 86 for detecting that the fore end of said air tube 56 is connected to said to-be-connected member 82.

Abstract: The invention includes a system for monitoring the performance of an automatic dosing siphon utilized in reservoir which is a part of a wastewater treatment system. The siphon includes a bell type cover, a fluid trap having one leg extending upward into the bell, and an outlet discharge pipe connected to said trap. A flow detect switch is located in the discharge pipe. Upon siphon activation the switch is opened and a countdown timer is reset. After draining the reservoir, the switch closes and the timer starts counting down a predetermined time period. If the siphon doesn't activate, time expires and an alarm is triggered. A second system utilizes a solenoid drain valve located above the outlet portion of the siphon trap such that upon time expiring the valve opens, the tank drains, and the timer resets. The valve automatically reprimes the siphon. The system continues to monitor the siphon and initiates an alarm upon subsequent siphon failures.

Abstract: An overfill prevention device for storage tanks includes an elongate tubular housing having a liquid flow passageway. A normally open main valve and a normally closed vapor retaining bleed valve are associated with the fluid passageway. Closure of the main valve interrupts the primary flow of liquid through the passageway and closure of the bleed valve prevents any further liquid from entering the tank and also prevents the escape of vapors from the tank. Operation of the main valve is controlled in significant part by a valve latch assembly which is carried by the housing and a relatch assembly which is carried by the main valve. The relatch assembly ensures operative engagement of the main valve with the valve latch assembly upon movement of the main valve from the intermediate position to the open position. Operation of the main valve and vapor retaining bleed valve is also controlled indirectly by a plurality of floats which are maintained in a float chamber extending adjacent the liquid passageway.

Abstract: The invention provides an apportioning system comprising a first apportioning chamber having a first outlet and fillable with liquid to a first defined level such that if liquid is added to fill the first apportioning chamber above the first defined level, then the extra fluid drains through the first outlet, an inlet channel that distributes liquid to the first apportioning chamber, and a first electrode-based pump for moving liquid in the first apportioning chamber out the first outlet.

Abstract: Alarms for testing sensors, particularly those used in fire-suppression systems, are described. In one aspect of the invention, the alarm includes an audio and/or a visual indicator operably coupled to the housing of a sensor. The audio indicator may be a speaker that beeps when the sensor is activated. The visual indicator may be one or more LEDs that are illuminated when the sensor is activated. The alarm also can be used to determine whether power and ground conductors extending to the sensor are properly connected. Additionally, the alarm can be used to determine whether one or more conductors extending from the sensor to the control panel are properly connected.

Abstract: The combination of a water filter and a display for indication of the water filter condition includes an electrical circuit connected to the display and responsive to use of the water filter. The circuit includes a microcontroller, a timer connected to the microcontroller and providing timing signals thereto, and a switch connected to the microcontroller and responsive to the flow of water from the filter to cause the microcontroller to process the timing signals. The microcontroller is programmed to utilize the timing signals to provide an electrical signal to the display indicative of filter condition.

Abstract: A method is provided for detecting play between a cylinder valve of a piston engine and an electromagnetic actuator that actuates the cylinder valve. The electromagnet has a closing electromagnet and an opening electromagnet, two restoring springs and an armature which is guided to be movable back and forth between the two electromagnets, in each case counter to a force of a respective one of the restoring springs for acting upon the cylinder valve. With the armature held at one of the electromagnets by a holding current I.sub.H, a time interval t.sub.H after turnoff of the holding current I.sub.H at the holding electromagnet until the arrival of the armature at the other one of the electromagnets is measured, and the valve play is calculated by subtracting from the time interval t.sub.H a motion time t.sub.B predetermined by the spring-mass system, comprising the armature, valve body and restoring springs, and a sticking time t.sub.

Abstract: A valve apparatus (2) for selectively distributing the sequential passage of separate, organic fluids to a common receiver, such as a reaction vessel. The valve apparatus comprises a valve body member (16) having multiple openings (56) and a plurality of separate conduits (54) each communicating a fluid source with one of the openings. The body member also has a common passage (60) with circular groove portions (62) surrounding the openings so that fluid flows radially outward from the openings toward the common passage. A plurality of pistons (30) are individually reciprocable between first and second positions for controlling fluid flow between associated openings and the common passage. The invention also provides a system (100) and method for measuring and delivering a precise quantity of each of the organic fluids, e.g., chemical reagents, to the reaction vessel.

Abstract: A pressure relief valve for a packaging container has a flexible valve member that is fastened with parallel edge zones thereby covering a hole in the package wall. In order to protect the packaging container equipped with the pressure relief valve against theft, an alarm triggering device is integrated into the pressure relief valve. The alarm triggering device has the shape of a strip that is glued to the valve membrane on one of its fastening edge zones.

Abstract: A electronic water utility monitoring system including a control box for the system positionable within the house of a user. Further provided is a first electrical line from the control box to a source of potential within the house. Associated therewith is a second electrical line from the control box to a water line for the house. Also included is a flow metering device mounted on the second electrical line to determine the rate of flow of the water within the water line. Finally, an electrical circuit is included for controlling the box. Such electric circuit has a port for allowing coupling with a conventional computer thereby allowing the storing of the rate of flow of water and further calculating the amount of water consumed over a predetermined amount of time and the price of water consumed.

Abstract: The valve is designed for the ejection of a plurality of different gases from within the valve, simultaneously, by having a plurality of plenum chambers within the chamber of the valve, and a poppet therein, that are charged with gases under pressure. The gases are sealed within the respective plenum chambers by the action of a spring that urges the poppet against a gas exit port associated with each plenum chamber. Ejection of the gases is accomplished by the application of an electrical current into a coil surrounding the poppet which produces an electromagnetic field that causes a non-ferrous hammer to be driven away from the coil and strike the poppet. Upon being struck by the hammer, the poppet is driven off of the plurality of gas exit ports thereby allowing the gases to be ejected, simultaneously, from the respective plenum chambers into a region of lower pressure.