Abstract: An apparatus selectively supplies a source of pressurized fluid to a load device and selectively exhausts pressurized fluid from the load device. The apparatus includes a first housing for defining a longitudinally extending aperture communicating through first, second, and third passages with spaced first, second and third external surface portions of the first housing. A valve spool is engageable within the first aperture for longitudinal movement between a first position communicating the second passage with the third passage and a second position communicating the first passage with the second passage. The valve spool is normally biased toward the first position. Modular port members are connectable to the first, second and third spaced external surface portions for connecting the first passage to a source of pressurized fluid, the second passage to the load device, and the third passage to an exhaust port.

Abstract: Valved couplers and gas processing components particularly suitable for ultra-high purity gas distribution for use in semiconductor manufacturing. In the couplers, a valve stem/bullnose seals the aperture of the coupler immediately adjacent the exterior of the coupler, so that only a minimal amount of the wetted surface of the coupler is exposed to the external environment. A gas processing component (e.g., a filter), or an entire integrated gas stick assembly, may be sealed from the exterior environment at both its inlet and outlet sides, by these valved couplers. As a result, the entire device can be purged after manufacture and left in a controlled environment during shipment and installation, reducing the need for purging after installation.

Abstract: In a series progressive divider valve having a number of identical valve units disposed adjacent to each other, each formed by a base member and a spool member having a movable spool therein, a manifold in the form of a plate which can be inserted between the base member and the spool member of a valve unit which modifies the flow of lubricant in the event one of the output ports becomes blocked or restricted. In the event such a blockage or restriction occurs, a relief valve disposed in the manifold plate is opened which establishes communication between two normally non-communicating bores which results in the re-routing of the lubricant to the succeeding valve unit. The manifold permits the overall output/lubricant delivery configuration of the divider valve to be continued in the event of such a blockage or restriction.

Abstract: A container for storing in particular water-endangering liquids has an inner wall and an outer wall spaced therefrom. In the lower area of the container is connected a pipeline forming a lower outlet and which is formed by an inner pipe and an outer pipe surrounding it. At the inner pipe end remote from the container is positioned a shutoff fitting and the outer pipe issues into a protective casing tightly surrounding the shutoff fitting. The gaps between the two walls and between the two pipes, as well as the inner space of the protective casing are monitored for a possible leak. So that when liquid is removed its unintentional escape in the case of damage can be reliably avoided, from the shutoff fitting a further extending pipeline extends outwards in sealed manner through the protective casing.

Abstract: A valve unit to control the flow of high-pressure fluid comprising a housing having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a flow port in the housing communicating between the inlet and outlet, and a seat about the flow port; stem structure in the housing, and a stopper carried by the stem structure to be moved therewith toward and away from the seat; a stack of metallic diaphragms connected to the stem structure and to the housing, to flex and seal off therebetween as the stem structure moves, there being a flow chamber in the housing at one side of the diaphragms, and a control chamber in the housing at the opposite side of the diaphragms; control structure carried by the housing and extending into the control chamber to effect the movement of the stem structure, the control structure being movable relative to the housing; and signal structure carried by the housing to signal presence or absence of pressurized fluid leakage from the flow chamber, and from the control chamber.

Abstract: A Method for Supplying Industrial Gases Using Integrated Bottle Controllers that overcomes the problems encountered by previous gas cabinet equipment is disclosed. The present invention comprises a compact and virtually explosion-proof controller (10) that is anchored securely to the top of a standard gas bottle (12). The entire system resides within a housing (11) that sits atop a conventional gas bottle (12) that would normally be enclosed within a gas cabinet (25) that may be sixty times the volume of the present invention. The controller (10) includes a housing (11) that has a top or lid (14), an upper cylinder (16), an annular wall (18) which forms a seal with the bottle (12). In a preferred embodiment of the invention, filled and cleaned bottles are connected to controllers at a fabrication clean area. The controllers are then operated remotely using a radio frequency or infra-red control. After the bottles are depleted, the controllers are removed and tested. The bottles are then refilled for reuse.

Abstract: A swing-check valve for controlling fluid flow includes a valve housing and a valve assembly connected to a removable cover of the valve housing for rigid positioning of the valve assembly within the interior of the valve housing. Moreover, the valve assembly includes as a modular unit a valve seat subassembly in addition to a clapper subassembly and a spring subassembly. The valve seat subassembly includes a valve seat that is frictionally disposed within a port of the valve housing for controlling fluid flow therethrough when the cover is fastened to the valve housing. The clapper subassembly includes a clapper pivotal between a first position in engagement with the valve seat for blocking fluid flow through the port and a second position for permitting fluid flow through the port. The spring subassembly includes a spring and a spring base engageable with the clapper subassembly for urging the clapper into the first position.

Abstract: A method and assembly (kit) are provided for use by propane tank service personnel to detect escaping gas in propane tank systems. The standard connector between the regulator and tank service valve is replaced with a permanent valve assembly including a valve unit disposed in a branch connection of a tee connector. A separate pressure gauge is individually assigned to tank service personnel and adapted to be carried by such personnel in testing the pressure in the propane tank. The pressure gauge includes a hose having, at the distal end thereof, a valve unit connector for actuating the valve unit when the gauge is connected to the valve unit. When the pressure gauge is connected to the valve unit the latter is actuated to provide an immediate reading of the tank pressure.

Abstract: A engine fuel delivery system for vehicles under test, which effectively its the quantity of fuel under pressurization at any given time during a test sequence of the vehicle's engine. The system thus effectively reduces the magnitude of an explosion which may be caused by pressurization of fuel, and thus the scale of any damage, associated with any inadvertent detonation of pressurized engine fuel.

Abstract: A flow alarm includes a magnetic switch that is maintained open so long as catalyst flow is maintained and an air flow switch that is closed responsive to flow of air through an associated conduit. The associated conduit supplies air via a solenoid valve to a pneumatic whistle. When flow of catalyst falls below a pre-set threshhold, the magnetic switch closes completing the circuit with the solenoid valve causing the solenoid valve to open and allowing air flow to the pneumatic whistle to signal the reduction of catalyst flow.

Abstract: Disclosed is an indicator system for use with inflating devices that use a cylinder of compressed gas. The indicator system is comprised of a cylinder adapter which receives and supports a cylinder and, concurrently, is received by an inflating device. The cylinder adapter includes an indication means that signals whether the attached cylinder is full or has been discharged by way of the indication means being responsive to the high pressure release from the cylinder during a discharge. The indication means incorporates the use of the color green to signify that the cylinder is full and the color red to signify that the cylinder has been discharged. The indicator system is designed to have a one-time use after which it is disposed of.

Abstract: A valve for controlling the flow of fuel within a gas turbine engine is provided. The fuel flow control valve includes a valve block disposed within a sleeve, and apparatus for displacing one of the sleeve or valve block relative to the other. The sleeve includes an inlet port and an exit port. The valve block includes an inlet gate and an exit gate. One of the sleeve or the valve block may be displaced relative to the other from a closed position where the gates close the ports and thereby prevent fluid flow through the valve via the ports, to a plurality of open positions where the gates less than completely close the ports, and thereby allow fluid flow through the valve via the ports.

Abstract: A device for automatic dilution of chemical additives and water utilizing a single pump (20) drawing water and other chemical additives through a dilution manifold (10). The introduction of air into the system is monitored such that the system performance is not impaired. If the air leak is small corrections can be made, and if the air leak is large, the system will shut down and activate an indication or alarm to signify that some malfunction has occurred, such as a chemical supply is unconnected or empty.

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: An adjustable damper for controlling air flow from one area to another includes a rectangular frame forming an opening with a number of movable vanes positioned to selectively close off or open up the opening. Positioned between each pair of vanes in the frame is a stationary pitot-static sensing vane. Each pitot-static sensing vane can also be shaped as an air foil and includes an upstream chamber connected to a ram air input aperture and a downstream chamber connected to a downstream static aperture. Each of the chambers is connected to one portion of a pressure sensing instrument, such as, for example, a diaphragm type differential pressure sensor, in order to sense air flow velocity across the damper.

Abstract: A depressurizing connector includes a body which has an interior chamber formed therein, an inlet in fluid communication with the interior chamber for connecting to an external pressurized air source to supply pressurized air at a first pressure to the interior chamber, a first outlet in fluid communication with the interior chamber to output the first pressure, a depressurizing device incorporated within the connector body to be operable to change the first pressure to a second pressure lower than the first pressure in an adjustable manner, a second outlet in fluid communication with the bore to output the second pressure and a pressure gauge to indicate the second pressure.

Abstract: Methods of fluid handling are disclosed. According to one method, a tip of a nozzle is moved below a surface of the fluid to be handled. A pump fluidly associated with the nozzle is energized to move fluid into the nozzle. A pressure transducer fluidly associated with the nozzle is energized to monitor pressure within the nozzle. Pressure within the nozzle is substantially continuously monitored with the pressure transducer during operation of the pump. Based on the substantially continuously monitored pressure within the nozzle, it is determined whether movement of fluid into the nozzle is intended or unintended. Similar methods may be used to move fluid out of the nozzle.

Abstract: A five valve flanged manifold valve in a straight-flow configuration has a height that is less than 25 percent greater than it width, and in 90.degree. angled flow configuration is less than 50 percent greater than its width. A vent pert is advantageously positioned on the front face of the valve in both configurations. A vent pert control valve is located a rear surface of the straight flow configuration manifold valve, and on a bottom surface of the 90.degree. flow configuration manifold valve. Neither configuration of the manifold valve requires a separate access hole for use during manufacture to form and shape the internal crossflow passageways. Both configurations have significantly less mass than the counterpart prior valves of their respective types.

Abstract: A pressure gauge has a housing unit which includes an air inlet, an air outlet, an air chamber communicated fluidly with the air inlet, and a pressure relief chamber communicated fluidly with the air chamber via a pressure relief passage and with the outlet via a check valve. An adjustment rod is threaded on the housing unit and can be rotated so as to move in the housing unit. A reed spring is carried on the adjustment rod by a spring carrier and pushes a ball to close the upper end of the pressure relief passage. When the air pressure of the air chamber exceeds a preset value which corresponds to the position of the adjustment rod relative to the housing unit, the ball is pushed upward to disengage from the upper end of the pressure relief passage so as to permit excessive air to flow from the air chamber to the outlet.

Abstract: A swing-check valve for controlling fluid flow includes a valve housing and a valve assembly that engages a removable cover of the valve housing for rigid positioning of the valve assembly within the interior of the valve housing when the cover is mounted to the housing. Moreover, the valve assembly includes a valve seat subassembly in addition to a clapper subassembly and a spring subassembly. The valve seat subassembly includes a valve seat that is frictionally disposed within a port of the valve housing for controlling fluid flow therethrough when the cover is fastened to the valve housing. The clapper subassembly includes a clapper pivotal between a first position in engagement with the valve seat for blocking fluid flow through the port and a second position for permitting fluid flow through the port. The spring subassembly includes a spring and a spring base engageable with the clapper subassembly for urging the clapper into the first position.

Abstract: A gas tank valve and yoke for mounting gas passaging structure on the valve in which a gas tank valve stem and yoke set screw are both adapted to be engaged by a single wrench. The same wrench turns the valve stem to open and close the gas tank valve, and turns the set screw into secure engagement with the gas tank valve to hold the yoke in a fixed, self-retaining position on the valve. A torque rod is connected to the outer end portion of the set screw for conjoint rotational movement with the set screw about the longitudinal axis of the set screw for turning the set screw. Pin and hole arrangements on the yoke and valve body are provided to discriminate against using an undesired gas or gas passaging structure.

Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus for freeze prevention protecting an irrigation system. The response of the apparatus depends on environmental conditions. At a first temperature condition, the irrigation system is shut down. At a lower temperature condition, the system remains shut down and heat is delivered to the above ground portions of the system. In the event temperatures continue to decrease, a full drainage of the above ground portion of the irrigation system will be accomplished and alarm notification will be given.

Abstract: An alarm system for a particular type of lifting seal type valve, such as those employed in pressure relief. The alarm system consists of a signal source, an alarm mechanism and a signal carrying conductor secured to a seated lifting seal valve in such a manner that valve actuation will disrupt the transmission, interrupting the signal and activating the alarm.

Abstract: A differential pressure sensor is attached to a process via a high and a low pressure impulse line. An absolute pressure sensor is also attached to each impulse line. To determine if an impulse line is blocked, a noise signal is acquired from the corresponding absolute pressure sensor. A variance of the noise signal is determined and compared to a threshold. If the variance is less than the threshold, an impulse line blockage is indicated.

Abstract: In a valve unit to control the flow of high-pressure fluid, the combination comprises a housing having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, a flow port in the housing communicating between the inlet and outlet, and a seat associated with the flow port; a stopper to be moved toward and away from the seat; a flow chamber in the housing to which high-pressure fluid flows when the stopper has been moved from the seat, for flow to the outlet, the stopper used to close off the flow when the stopper engages the seat; a cap carried by the housing at the outlet; and first signal means associated with the cap to signal presence or absence of pressurized fluid leakage into the flow chamber before the stopper has been moved from the seat.

Abstract: A valve unit to control the flow of high-pressure fluid comprising a housing having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a flow port in the housing communicating between the inlet and outlet, and a seat about the flow port; stem structure in the housing, and a stopper carried by the stem structure to be moved therewith toward and away from the seat; a stack of metallic diaphragms connected to the stem structure and to the housing, to flex and seal off therebetween as the stem structure moves, there being a flow chamber in the housing at one side of the diaphragms, and a control chamber in the housing at the opposite side of the diaphragms; control structure carried by the housing and extending into the control chamber to effect the movement of the stem structure, the control structure being movable relative to the housing; and signal structure carried by the housing to signal presence or absence of pressurized fluid leakage from the flow chamber, and from the control chamber.

Abstract: An electronic gas regulator is connected to a gas cylinder or other vessel to automatically measure and control the flow of gas to a desired application. Control and set up is accomplished through microprocessor based electronics, switches, sensors, encoders, indicators and electronic numeric display. Sensors, microprocessors and other electronics are thus provided in a single common apparatus to monitor and accurately dispense gas for a predetermined operation.

Abstract: A differential pressure flow sensor for use in a flow passageway of very low pressure flow lines and utilizing at least first and second conductive membranes in superimposed relationship having center portions constructed to create a discontinuity to allow a predetermined flow rate therethrough. A conductive strip is in juxtaposed relationship with the superimposed membranes and has a normally closed switch position. When the flow in the flow passageway exceeds the predetermined flow rate, the pressure against the flexible membranes opens the switch of the conductive strip and provides an electrical indication of the open switch.

Abstract: A self-regulating flow control valve that combines a variable area flow meter and a flow control valve. In one embodiment, a tapered frusto-conical float is installed in a concentric cylinder. This cylinder has an inlet port below the float and an outlet port above the float. Both the inlet and outlet ports are in fluid communication with the cylinder. During normal flows, the float raises and reaches an equilibrium position. The upper portion of the cylinder has a flow tube installed within the tube. The lower portion of this tube acts as a valve seat for the float. The flow tube is set at a particular level of flow. As the flow changes, the float level changes. As the float approaches the flow tube, the flow rate stabilizes at the desired set point due to valving action. The set point can be changed by adjusting the position of the valve flow tube. The flow rate may be read off a scale that can be affixed to the valve body, or by means of graduations formed on the flow tube.

Abstract: A pressure gauge includes a housing, a Bourdon tube with a closed end, an adjustment rod mounted rotatably in the housing, a microswitch installed on the adjustment rod, a gear, a sector wheel meshing with the gear, and a crank member interconnecting the sector wheel and the closed end of the Bourdon. Increase of the air pressure inside the Bourdon tube activates a portion of the assembly of the Bourdon tube and the sector wheel to contact the microswitch, so as to stop supply of compressed air from a pressure source to an article which is measured by the gauge. The adjustment rod can be rotated relative to the housing so as to change the distance between the microswitch and the portion of the assembly, thereby adjusting the preset upper limit value of the air pressure inside the Bourdon tube.

Abstract: A valve unit to control the flow of high-pressure fluid comprising a housing having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; a flow port in the housing communicating between the inlet and outlet, and a seat about the flow port; stem structure in the housing, and a stopper carried by the stem structure to be moved therewith toward and away from the seat; multiple stacked metallic diaphragms connected to the stem structure and to the housing, to flex and seal off therebetween as the stem structure moves, there being a flow chamber in the housing at one side of the diaphragms, and a control chamber in the housing at the opposite side of the diaphragms; control structure carried by the housing and extending into the control chamber to effect the movement of the stem structure, the control structure being movable relative to the housing; and deformable cushion structure in the control chamber to cushion movement of the diaphragm in one direction, and to conform to diaphragm flexing; the diaphragms having outer portions t

Abstract: An operation member (51) is fixedly secured to a right portion of a relief member (29) inserted into a housing (20). An annular transmission member (52) externally fitted to the operation member (51) is supported by a guide groove (62) so as to be vertically movable and is urged downward by a spring (74). When the relief member (29) doesn't perform the relief operation, a detected portion (65) of the transmission member (52) is made to access a detecting portion (68) of a proximity switch (14) by the operation member (51). At the time of the relief operation, the relief member (29) and the operation member (51) are rapidly moved rightward, so that the detected portion (65) is spaced apart from the detecting portion (68) by the spring (74).

Abstract: A pressure indicator regulator assembly for a gas flow control device is disclosed for indicating the pressure of gas in a container. The pressure indicator regulator assembly includes a regulator housing integrally formed with a gas flow control device attached to a high pressure gas container. A tubular spiral coil pressure indicator is disposed within a recessed notch defined by the regulator housing and is in sealed fluid connection with the gas container through a stepped bore bushing disposed in a stepped bore passage. A cover having a transparent outer surface is removably attached to the housing at the notch, and forms a smooth, essentially continuous surface with respect to the exterior surface of the housing.

Abstract: A combination hydraulic pressure regulator and pressure switch includes a housing having an interior chamber connecting an inlet port to an outlet port. A seating device is movably received in the interior chamber and has a seat surrounding an opening. The opening is in communication with the outlet port. A poppet is movable in the interior chamber. An adjustment spring normally urges the poppet into engagement with the seat to close the opening, the poppet being movable in a direction away from the seat in response to hydraulic pressure in the interior chamber sufficient to overcome the force of the adjustment spring. A limit switch is mounted to the body. A switch actuator is associated with the poppet for actuating the limit switch in response to movement of the poppet in a direction away from the seat.

Abstract: A pressure regulating unit for providing two different controlled pressures includes a block made of a single piece of metal and having a mounting structure integrally provided thereon and a gas flow passage provided therein. A first regulator has a gas inlet communicating with a source of high-pressure gas having varying pressure and communicating with the gas flow passage. The first regulator is a step-down regulator for supplying a substantially constant pressure gas to second and third pressure regulators, enabling the second and third pressure regulators to be fixed at a predetermined, unmonitored pressure. At least the second and third regulators are supported on the mounting structure, and at least the second regulator has a gas inlet communicating with the flow passage. The second and third regulators provide the two pressures.

Abstract: An indicator for a pilot, particularly a two-line pilot to visually indicate whether a pilot has responded to a pressure condition within a flowline which pressure condition is outside a predetermined range. The visual indication also indicates whether the pressure condition is above or below the predetermined range.

Abstract: A valve and sensor arrangement includes a valve which has a valve member. A sensor such as a sensor for detecting a flow of water through the valve is provided within the valve member and is preferably perpendicular to a turning axis of the valve member. The sensor is preferably a flow sensor which is rotated by flow through the valve and the sensor arrangement may be provided in a valve of general utility.

Abstract: A monitoring apparatus for monitoring the condition of a pressure relief rupture disk disposed in a pressure relief conduit is disclosed. The monitoring apparatus includes an electrically conductive rupture disk circuit, spaced apart electrodes affixed to the rupture disk, a rupture disk energizing circuit, a comparison circuit and an alarm circuit. The resistance between the electrodes changes when the disk ruptures. The energizing circuit includes a power source coupled to one of the electrodes. The magnitude of an output signal produced at the other of the two electrodes is dependent upon the resistance between the electrodes. The comparison circuit includes means for generating a selected magnitude output signal depending on the comparison of the magnitudes of the electrode output signal and an adjustable reference signal. The alarm circuit is electrically coupled to the comparison circuit and selectively activates an indicator alarm based on the magnitude of the comparison circuit output signal.

Abstract: A backflow prevention test assembly for a backflow preventer has a test valve in fluid communication with a conduit of the backflow preventer and a test kit. The test valve has a body defining an axial bore, and a piston defining a test conduit is disposed within the axial bore for movement between a first position permitting test flow through the test conduit and a second position resisting test flow. The piston is biased toward the second position. The test kit includes a test apparatus and a fitting for attachment upon the test valve body in sealing engagement. The fitting defines a displacement surface for engagement, after sealing engagement of the seal with the test valve, with an opposed surface of the piston to urge the piston toward its first position, thereby to establish fluid communication between the test apparatus and a region of the backflow preventer conduit. A method of testing fluid within the flow conduit of the backflow preventer is also described.

Abstract: A combined control and regulating valve (1) having a housing (2) with an inlet (3) and an outlet (4) as well as a partition (5) between said inlet and outlet and having a seat (6) designed for an interaction with a main valve body (7), which is adjustable from outside. To said inlet and said outlet are connected a measuring nipple each (50 and 74, respectively) via a bore (30, 31 and 40, 41 respectively) for the measurement and the control of temperature and/or pressure. One of the measuring nipples is designed as a multiple function nipple (50) having a cut-off-valve permitting tapping and filling of the medium, which is to be controlled/regulated.

Abstract: A compressor cylinder discharge valve is adapted for monitoring of internal pressure and performance by tapping through the center bolt thereof to obtain pressure values.

Abstract: The invention provides a vent cap for automatically discharging a gas container such as a propane cylinder. The vent cap includes threads for securing the vent cap to the neck of the gas container. The vent cap further includes an indicator which has a pin and a button. When the button is manually depressed, the pin engages the valve stem of the check valve which seals the gas container, discharging gas from the container. The button includes a flexible, radially curved central portion which provides oil can action when the indicator is moved between the up position and the down position. A geometrical configuration of the central portion may be adjusted to vary the gas pressure threshold at which the indicator will remain in the down position to automatically discharge a nearly empty gas container.

Abstract: A valve for a measuring device for the measurement of the physical properties of a fluid in a pipe line has a housing with two coaxial openings for the passage phased in the pipe line. In the housing a valve closure ball is rotatably mounted about a transverse axis. The valve closure ball has a flow channel which, in a first rotary angle position connects to the two openings. In a second rotary angle position turned through about 90.degree. with respect to the first, the valve closure ball blocks the flow between the openings. The piece has a circumferential surface forming a part of a spherical surface, which cooperates with a corresponding valve seating surface on the inside of the valve housing in the manner of a ball valve. In a housing bore coaxial to the axis of rotation of the valve closure ball, which communicates with the flow channel, a sensor is sealingly mounted.

Abstract: A cassette type gas cylinder, containing liquefied fuel gas, for giving an alarm when the volume of remaining fuel is reduced to a predetermined level or less in order to provide an advanced notice of replacement of the gas cylinder with a simple structure using burst energy of discharged gas. A valve 12 for opening and closing the discharge of liquefied gas is arranged at the center on one end of a container body 11a. A gas flow channel 17, with one end thereof opened into a gas space formed above the level of the fuel when the gas cylinder is laid horizontally, is connected to the valve 12. A vibrating member 27, for producing a sound when vibrated and caused to collide with a body by the burst of the fuel gas, is disposed in the gas flow channel 17. This vibrating member 27 is connected to a damping member 38 by means of a coupling member 29. The damping member 38 is located below a predetermined level of the liquefied fuel gas, and is subjected to resistance while moving in the liquefied fuel gas.

Abstract: An abnormality detecting apparatus constantly monitors even a slight amount of gas which has leaked by checking a gas supply pipe when it is determined that the pressure regulating function of a pressure regulator is abnormal. The abnormality detecting apparatus detects an abnormality of the regulated pressure of a pressure regulator appropriately by comparing the regulated pressure with a predetermined low value of a pressure regulating range when the gas flow rate is high and with a predetermined high value of a pressure regulating range when the gas flow rate is low.

Abstract: Automatic swimming pool cleaning systems are disclosed. The systems include an automatic swimming pool cleaner incorporating one or more curved wipers protruding from its lower surface. The wipers and flat bottom of the cleaner induce a vortex as fluid flows to its central inlet, entraining debris in the flow. A fluted throat surrounding the inlet additionally assists the interior of the base of the cleaner in retaining debris when opened for cleaning, additionally providing an improved flow path for enhanced debris pick-up.Also disclosed is a valve useful for controlling and indicating the rate of fluid flow to a cleaner. Included within the valve is a plunger attached to a spring, with the spring force opposing fluid flow through the valve. Flow sufficient to overcome the spring force compresses the spring, however, thereby moving the plunger within the tube and providing a dynamic indication of the rate of fluid flow.

Abstract: A value for a quantity of fuel remaining in a fuel tank is stored when a key switch is switched off. Refueling while an engine is stopped is detected when a difference between a remaining fuel quantity value for when the key switch is switched on and the stored remaining fuel quantity value for when switched off is equal to or greater than a predetermined proportion of the stored remaining fuel quantity value for when switched off. When refueling has been carried out, the fuel property is newly detected based on engine operating conditions, while when refueling has not been carried out, the fuel property is considered to be unchanged, and a fuel supply quantity is controlled in accordance with a fuel property for the previous time.

Abstract: An acoustic displacement flowmeter uses a high-compliance acoustic-type displacement transducer to measure fluid flow accumulated by temporarily restricting the flow of a fluid along a path. The displacement transducer signal, representative of fluid flow rate, is integrated after an initial settling period elapses, and the integrated signal is periodically sampled. The number of samples taken during a measurement cycle depends upon the slope of the integrated signal and the maximum sample period permitted. The samples are summed and the actual flow rate is computed by a microcomputer.

Abstract: A flow restriction detector for a nozzle assembly of a liquid dispensing machine is capable of detecting a blocked or partially blocked nozzle during the cleaning of the nozzle assembly. During nozzle cleaning, a return plate is attached to the nozzle plate of the nozzle assembly to receive a flow of pressurized fluid from the nozzles. Both the inlet and return fluid lines are provided with pressure sensors, and the return line has a constant back pressure applied to it so that the differential between the inlet and return line pressure sensors is in the range 5-10 psi. The pressure differential is monitored during cleaning and from one cleaning to the next for the purpose of identifying a blocked or partially blocked nozzle. A change of as little as 5% from the pressure differential value established for an unblocked system may indicate a partial blockage of a nozzle.

Abstract: An elastomeric bag having opposite ends, a first opening at one of the bag ends and adapted to be connected to a resuscitator assembly, a second opening at the other of the bag ends, and a one-way flap valve at the second opening. The bag when compressed manually causes air to flow out through the first opening to the resuscitator assembly; and the bag, when allowed to expand, causes air to flow into the bag via the second opening past the one-way flap valve. A hollow plunger is slidably mounted within a cylinder bore, and a compressor spring biases the plunger. A post is located in the cylinder to seat one end of the spring, so that the spring urges the plunger toward the bag. An air vent is located in the cylinder and toward which the plunger is movable when the bag is compressed; and an air pressure release hole in the cylinder releases excess air pressure in the cylinder to the exterior, only after the plunger has been moved by air pressure to compress the spring to predetermined extent.