Liquid Level Responsive Indicator, Recorder Or Alarm Patents (Class 137/558)
  • Patent number: 8550111
    Abstract: An overfill prevention device which includes a first tubular member, a cylindrical piston fitted within the first tubular member, a second tubular member having a cylindrical recess open, a plug arranged within the second tubular member, a float rod having a cam plate, a float connected with a lower end of the float rod, a valve body having a lower end engaged with the first tubular member, a pinion pivotally connected to the second tubular member by the pin, a toothed rack meshed with the pinion and engaged with the second tubular member, a control rod having an upper end extending into the valve body and a lower end secured to the toothed rack, a first magnet mounted at the upper end of the control rod, and a gauge mounted on the valve body and provided with a second permanent magnet and a needle operatively connected with the second magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Grand Hall Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: William Home
  • Publication number: 20130248018
    Abstract: A double-walled above-ground storage tank includes a primary tank and a secondary tank, and an interstitial space; an containment chamber formed by a primary chamber wall and a secondary chamber wall, forming a chamber interstitial space therebetween, and an exterior door assembly; and at least one pipe and valve assembly wherein the pipe originates in the tank interior volume and the valve is disposed within the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: ENVIRO VAULT INC.
    Inventor: Russ HEBBLETHWAITE
  • Patent number: 8511341
    Abstract: A marine fuel backflow preventer and overfill alarm for use with marine vessels includes a housing provided for in-line installation in the fuel fill inlet line and directs fuel entering the a fuel filling inlet generally directly to a fuel filling outlet such that the fuel passes freely through the back flow preventer while being directed to the vessel fuel tank. The housing further functions as a reservoir for containing fuel which has accumulated therein due to over-filling and/or that has been carried into the housing via the fuel tank vent line. By providing a fuel containing reservoir disposed in-line the present invention thus functions to prevent unintended fuel spillage into the environment. The back flow preventer further includes an electro-mechanical float switch that automatically activates an alarm upon sensing the presence of fuel within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: Gary E. Johnston
  • Patent number: 8511343
    Abstract: A bladderless reservoir tank is provided with a hollow body that forms a cavity for receipt of a working fluid. A pick-up tube is attached to the hollow body of the reservoir tank. A portion of the pick-up tube extends into the interior of the body such that a port of the pick-up tube is positioned at the centroid of the hollow body. The pick-up tube has a channel that extends from the port at the centroid to the exterior of the body of the reservoir tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Control Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Nicholas J. Scholtes
  • Patent number: 8470137
    Abstract: An assembly for recycling a solvent from a contaminated solvent solution includes a reservoir module connected to a recycler module. The reservoir module includes a mounted reservoir including an interior volume and a removable lid that reduces the interior volume and includes an access port. The recycler module includes a distillation assembly and an air handler assembly. The distillation assembly includes a distiller and a conduit including a condenser and a sight glass. The air handler assembly includes a duct having an intake port, an exhaust port and a source of air flow. The condenser is disposed within the duct and the sight glass is disposed external to the duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Safety-Kleen Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Rudy Publ, David Kisela, Tim Rothwell, Greg Merz, Gary Myers
  • Patent number: 8459300
    Abstract: An arrangement is provided for feeding a liquid additive from a receptacle into a fuel line or into an exhaust line of an internal-combustion engine of a motor vehicle by way of a blockable feed line leading into at least one of the above-mentioned line and by way of a pump which at least temporarily generates a feed pressure in the feed line. The receptacle can be filled with additive from a larger storage tank also accommodated in the motor vehicle by way of a connection line that can be blocked. The feed line branches off the connection line between the receptacle and the storage tank. The pump is installed in the receptacle or between the receptacle and the branching-off of the feed line into the connection line. The connection line can be shut-off in the storage tank or between the storage tank and the branching-off of the feed line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Andreas Bruhn, Jonas Wachter, Udo Strathoff, Guenther Schneider
  • Patent number: 8448665
    Abstract: An illustrative embodiment of a fuel overflow alarm system includes a fuel tank, a pressure-sensing tube provided in fluid communication with the fuel tank, a pressure sensor provided in fluid communication with the pressure-sensing tube, a microcontroller interfacing with the pressure sensor and a fuel gauge connected to the microcontroller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventors: Perry R Anderson, Darla C. Anderson
  • Patent number: 8442783
    Abstract: A fuel measuring device, for mounting on the inlet to a vehicle fuel tank, has a sensor for recording a flow rate of fuel flowing through the inlet into the vehicle fuel tank. A processor for integrating the fuel flow rate to determine amount of fuel supplied to the fuel tank and a data storage device, for storing data indicative of the volume of fuel supplied to the vehicle fuel tank, are provided. A connector, for enabling the stored data on fuel volume to be transferred from the fuel measuring device on the vehicle to another device separate from the vehicle. A signal from a sender unit of a vehicle fuel tank may be used. A related method enables fuel usage to be tracked by, for example, the renter of a vehicle, and a further related method provides improved fuel gauges for use in fleets of rental cars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Peter Piszko
  • Patent number: 8439065
    Abstract: An auto bleed valve and method of bleeding a hydraulic system of an aircraft is accomplished by illuminating a plenum of a bleed valve using an LED oriented to illuminate a phototransistor when air is present in the plenum. A comparator circuit is used on an output of the phototransistor such that a predetermined voltage output corresponds to air detected in the plenum. An integrating circuit and a second comparator in series with the first comparator circuit is used to determine when a predetermined time period is met in which air is continuously detected in the plenum. Thereafter an air bleed solenoid can be used to vent the air upon a signal from the aircraft computer logic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: William Dirkin, Franklin C. Lee, William Lui
  • Patent number: 8439062
    Abstract: A system and method for detecting water in locations in homes and buildings where it should not be present, and responding by terminating water inlet access to plumbing in said home or building or the like and optionally operating a dump valve, in combination with an approach to periodically testing system operability and providing a signal upon a component performing a predetermined number of operations. The method can further include the monitoring of signals and responding with maintenance and/or replacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventors: Keith J. Ziegenbein, Zachary J. Ziegenbein, Zebadiah W. Ziegenbein
  • Patent number: 8430115
    Abstract: An electronic leak detection system for home humidifier using the duct air conditioning system. The leak detection system uses a simple sensor in a water collection tray under the humidifier to detect if leakage has occurred. An auxiliary solenoid valve is connected in line with the water supply to the humidifier. When leakage is detected, power to the humidifier system is shut down and an auxiliary solenoid valve is powered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: Norman Thomas Stieb
  • Patent number: 8427336
    Abstract: A subsea control module has a casing (1) inside which there is at least one pair of electrodes, there being electronic means (26-33) connected with the electrodes of the or each pair for monitoring at least one electrical characteristic between the electrodes as a result of a fluid to which the electrodes are exposed, the or each pair of electrodes comprising an array (19) in which each electrode of the pair has finger portions interleaved with finger portions of the other electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventors: Julian R. Davis, Simon David Gill, Adrian John Derrick
  • Patent number: 8425767
    Abstract: A connecting device comprises a buffer chamber (2), a first connecting line (3) between a liquid source (4) and an inlet (5) of the buffer chamber, a second connecting line (9) between an outlet (10) of the buffer chamber and the medical treatment apparatus (11), two valves (7, 8) arranged in series on the first connecting line, a pump (12) on the second connecting line, two liquid level sensors (15, 16) operating in the buffer chamber, a vent valve (18) connected to the buffer chamber. The liquid source is a centralized distribution plant of dialysate, while the medical treatment apparatus is a dialysis apparatus. The invention prevents back-contamination of the centralized plant with disinfectant sourced from the dialysis apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Gambro Lundia AB
    Inventors: Massimo Fava, Salvatore Rinaldi
  • Publication number: 20130092265
    Abstract: A rotary paddle limit switch for determining a limit level of a fill substance, comprising a housing, which serves for accommodating a motor and a drive shaft. The drive shaft serves for rotation of a rotary paddle secured on the drive shaft, wherein the rotary paddle limit switch has a viewing window for optically checking rotational movement of the rotary paddle and/or the drive shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser Wetzer GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Marc Stahl, Robert Zeller, Detlef Schuttenberg, Rainer Pöllath, Angelika Heim
  • Patent number: 8397491
    Abstract: A device (4) for introducing a liquid reducing agent (5) into an exhaust gas (6) of a combustion system (2) has a reservoir (20), a discharge element (23) for discharging the liquid reducing agent (5) into the exhaust gas (6), a feed line (22), interposed between the reservoir (20) and the discharge element (23), a delivery element (26) arranged in the feed line (22) for delivering the liquid reducing agent (5) in a direction of delivery (29) from the reservoir (20) to the discharge element (23). The feed line (22) is associated with a controllable venting element (34) upstream of the delivery element (26), the discharge element (23) is connected to the reservoir (20) via a return line (32) and a controllable shut-off element (36) is arranged in the return line (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Bauer, Rainer Bentz, Joachim Frank, Hermann Ketterl
  • Publication number: 20130061940
    Abstract: A fuel system is disclosed. The fuel system includes a fuel tank having a chamber defined by a wall and an electrical circuit associated with the fuel tank. The electrical circuit includes means for determining an amount of fuel disposed within the fuel tank chamber. A portion of the electrical circuit includes a sensor for detecting whether or not the fuel line is properly connected to the fuel tank. A method for assembling a fuel system is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: Vitec, LLC
    Inventor: Vitec, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130042919
    Abstract: A liquid collection system includes a liquid collection portion configured to attach to a waste receptacle having a waste receptacle opening. The liquid collection portion has a liquid collection opening which extends into the waste receptacle opening. The liquid container also has a liquid reservoir portion attached to the liquid collection portion and in communication with the liquid collection opening. A fill indicator is in communication with the liquid container. The fill indicator is configured to indicate when an amount of liquid in the liquid reservoir portion has a predetermined volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Jay Vincent Lambke
  • Publication number: 20120312397
    Abstract: A float switch apparatus for controlling the energization of multiple electric circuits in response to the level of a liquid in a vessel, and a pump system incorporating same, are provided. The apparatus has a guide structure adapted to be mounted in a fixed position relative to the vessel. A first micro-switch with a normal and an engaged position is mounted to the guide structure and is adapted to be connected into a first electric circuit to control the energization thereof. A second microswitch with a normal and an engaged position is mounted to the guide structure at a location above the first micro-switch and is adapted to be connected into a second electric circuit to control the energization thereof. A float rod is slideably mounted to the guide structure for reciprocating movement in a generally vertical direction in a zone above a resting position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Raymond Ascord Noel
  • Patent number: 8297308
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cartridge (1) for insertion into a receptacle of a motor vehicle handling facility having an interior chamber (2) which receives a liquid or pasty medium, an outlet (7), that can be opened so that the cartridge (1) can be used, and a data carrier (8) set up for touch-free electromagnetic signal transmission and positioned at a distance (5) to the interior chamber (2) of the cartridge (1) that is greater than a wall-thickness of the cartridge (1). Conventional cartridges of this kind are not sufficiently secure against confusion and resistant to outside influences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Washtec Holding GmbH
    Inventor: Robert Auer
  • Patent number: 8256455
    Abstract: A valve and method allows efficient closure for a pipe containing liquid. The valve in the preferred form is operated by a float in a sump pit should the sump pump fail to operate. The float is lifted by rising water and an arm attached to the float is supported on rollers when the valve is normally open turns to disengage from the rollers to close the valve. A shaft positioned in the conduit is attached to a cap which reacts to the expansion of a spring to thus close the end of the conduit and prevent further liquid flow therethrough. An audible alarm system sounds as the rising liquid level reaches a water sensor on the valve to warn a homeowner or building occupant. The alarm also sounds when a manual test switch is closed or if the smoke sensor is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Ralph A. Ball
  • Publication number: 20120204966
    Abstract: An embodiment of this disclosure relates to a fluidic interface for a fluid cartridge comprising a single cast comprising a fluidic needle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventors: Judson M. Leiser, Karen A. St Martin, Patrick V. Boyd
  • Publication number: 20120199220
    Abstract: The Grey Water Processing and Distribution System is a self-contained fully functional grey water collection, processing and dispersing system that runs on grey water collected from internal grey water sources and supplies filtered water to the house's landscaping irrigation system as well as filtered and sanitized flush water to the house's toilets and washing machine for usage and requires standard local power. It incorporates a unique self-cleaning fine screen filter system. The central digital control unit monitors and runs the various system components and manages the house's landscaping irrigation system. The digital control unit also makes sure that the toilets are never without flush water and protects the irrigation system against under and over watering. The internal and external plumbing also allows for the system to be completely bypassed in the event of power failure or the introduction of undesirable contaminants into the grey water source stream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: ADVANCED GREY WATER RECYCLING SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventors: John E. Knepp, Francesco Dorigo, Robert J. Knepp
  • Patent number: 8231192
    Abstract: A liquid detection unit includes a unit case, a sensor, and a relay terminal. The sensor is held by the unit case. The relay terminal has a relay portion and first and second terminals that are provided on both ends of the relay portion. The second terminal is connected to the sensor. The unit case includes a first terminal holding portion, a second terminal holding portion, and a deformable portion. The first terminal holding portion holds the first terminal of the relay terminal. The second terminal holding portion holds the second terminal of the relay terminal. The deformable portion is provided between the first terminal holding portion and the second terminal holding portion, and elastically deforms in a direction in which a distance between the first terminal holding portion and the second terminal holding portion is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Yuji Aoki, Hitotoshi Kimura
  • Patent number: 8201577
    Abstract: An arrangement is provided for feeding a liquid additive from a receptacle into a fuel pipe or into an exhaust line of an internal-combustion engine of a motor vehicle. The receptacle is fillable with additive from a larger storage tank that is also accommodated in the motor vehicle by way of a connection line that can be blocked by a shut-off element. A pump is installed in the receptacle or in the connection line. A heating device for heating at least a partial volume of the additive is present in the receptacle. A blockable return line branches off into the receptacle from the connection line between the pump and the shut-off element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Andreas Bruhn, Jonas Wachter, Udo Strathoff, Guenther Schneider
  • Patent number: 8197012
    Abstract: A device for supplying a downstream hydraulic brake fluid to a hydraulic brake circuit of a motor vehicle equipped with a clutch includes an enclosure intended to contain the hydraulic fluid, the enclosure being provided with at least one outlet nozzle and with an inlet orifice. The enclosure forms a downstream portion of a reservoir, the reservoir comprising an upstream portion forming an upstream enclosure intended to collect an upstream hydraulic fluid from the clutch of the vehicle. The upstream enclosure 4 includes at least one inlet nozzle serving to transfer the upstream hydraulic fluid toward the upstream enclosure 4. The inlet orifice is an intermediate orifice whereby the upstream enclosure opens into the downstream enclosure, the intermediate orifice being equipped with a means for filtering the upstream hydraulic fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Jean-Michel L'Aot, Sylvain Lenczner, Christophe Duchossoy, Olivier Beaures-D'Augeres
  • Publication number: 20120125442
    Abstract: A fluid level monitoring system may include a control panel having a plurality of input devices, each corresponding to a monitored fluid of a machine, and a plurality of indicators, each corresponding to one of the input devices. The indicators may provide visual displays of fluid level statuses for the monitored fluids. The fluid level monitoring system may further include a message display device that may display a fluid level status message for one of the monitored fluids based on the actuation of the corresponding input device of the control panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventors: Thomas M. Sutherland, Austin D. Ehle, Randy Aneloski, Luke J. Daiberl, Jack Elder
  • Publication number: 20120125443
    Abstract: The invention relates to a grey water reclamation system and methods therefor. Grey water is captured from a source, such as a sink, and stored in a main body containing a pump. The grey water is transported to a flush tank for use with a toilet. The system provides for use of a mixture of fresh water and grey water without interrupting the service to the user. Usage of grey water is maximized without completely eliminating the fresh water as a component that ensures service when grey water is unavailable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventors: Dustin BORG, Mark Gutting Kilzer, Xu Wang
  • Patent number: 8066029
    Abstract: A sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device eliminates raw sewage spills by preventing pressure buildup in sewer drains. One or more sewage level sensors may be coupled to an alarm and/or to an automatic water main shut-off valve. The level sensor may detect excess fluid levels in a sewer lateral line. The sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device may include a joggle which is a component of a non-mechanical backflow prevention device. The level sensor may detect fluid levels in the lower portion of the joggle and activate the automatic water main shut-off valve and/or the alarm. The sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device may include at least one two-way, in-line cleanout tube which may extend vertically upwardly from the joggle. The level sensor may be mounted in the vertical cleanout tube. The components may be contained within a seamless polyethylene vault for ease of installation and protection against root intrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventors: William McDonald, Walter L. Dabbs, Paul Willman
  • Patent number: 8042567
    Abstract: A gas meter is mounted between vertical and horizontal branch tubes of a gas canister valve and has an indication pointer driven by a magnetic block that is movable inside the valve to indicate a residual quantity of gas inside the canister. The gas meter includes a casing that is magnetically non-conductive and forms at a top edge of a back thereof an inverted slope surface, an upper clamp extending from opposite sides of the inverted slope surface in an upward direction to clamp the vertical branch tube, and a side clamp engageable with the horizontal branch tube. The back of the meter casing is recessed at a location opposite to and interfering with an outer top edge of an enclosure for the magnetic block to form a fitting groove that corresponds to the top edge of the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Grand Hall Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: William Home
  • Patent number: 8037898
    Abstract: A reservoir tank for a vehicle brake system has a tank body including upper and lower shells joined together along mating surfaces. A float and a fluid level sensor are mounted in a fluid level detecting chamber defined in the tank body. The float is fitted on a shaft of the fluid level sensor. A partition plate is fitted in the lower shell to restrict a flow of hydraulic fluid into and out of the fluid level detecting chamber. The partition plate is disposed near the top end of the shaft of the fluid level sensor to restrict the distance by which the float can move vertically. A filter, the fluid level sensor and the partition plate are all set in the lower shell. The filter and the partition plate having their top ends pressed against the bottom ends of partitioning walls of the upper shell. Thus, the filter and the partition wall are held in position in the tank body between the upper and lower shells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Advics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mitsuharu Hayashi
  • Patent number: 8032256
    Abstract: A system that control levels of liquids in reservoirs may include a control component that causes a compressor to pump gas through a tube extending in a liquid in a reservoir to an air bell for a predetermined amount of time responsive to a pump pumping portions of a liquid from the reservoir. The control component may also cause the compressor to pump gas through the tube for a predetermined amount of time responsive to the control component determining that a predetermined amount of time has passed since the compressor was previously operated. The control component may also cause the compressor to pump gas through the tube for a predetermined amount of time, responsive to the control component determining that a pressure sensor component in fluid communication with the tube indicates a possible decrease in the liquid level to at least a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: SJE-Rhombus
    Inventors: Aaron R. Wolf, William D. Chandler, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110226359
    Abstract: A hollow container may have a light source entirely positioned in a cavity defined by a bottom exterior surface of the container. A rigid base of the light source may be flush with the bottom exterior surface around the cavity. The cavity may be concave inward toward a center of the hollow container. A fluid level sensor switch may protrude through a bottom wall of the hollow container to sense a fluid level in the hollow container. A circuit connected to the fluid level sensor switch and the light source may be wired to cause the light source to blink when the fluid level sensor switch detects a predetermined fluid level within the hollow container and a hood switch detects an open vehicle hood. A hole in a top exterior surface may have a cap and facilitate addition or removal of a liquid to the hollow container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: DENSO INTERNATIONAL AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: Dwayne Taylor
  • Patent number: 8013749
    Abstract: Disclosed are portable, easy-to-install apparatuses for detecting and containing fluid leaked or otherwise discharged from a fluid-filled device and for facilitating testing and maintenance of the apparatus and fluid-filled devices. In one aspect of the disclosed invention, upon sensing a fluid discharge, the apparatus activates audible and/or visual alarms and directs the discharged fluid to a predetermined drainage area to prevent damage to areas surrounding the fluid-filled device. In another aspect of the present invention, no plumbing or electrical wiring is required to install the apparatus, thereby allowing an unskilled individual to easily and inexpensively install the apparatus. In yet another aspect of the present invention, the apparatus may be easily located since it is not dependent on gravity or a drainage pipe for discharge of the fluid. Furthermore, the apparatus optionally includes an integral leveling mechanism to accommodate leveling of the apparatus when placed on uneven surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Kevin M. Murphy, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kevin Michael Murphy
  • Publication number: 20110203686
    Abstract: Disclosed is a liquid level indicator suitable for use with an electrical power source comprises: a liquid level indication rod at least partially immersed in the liquid, the liquid level indication rod including a plurality of electrical contacts disposed on a surface of a non-conductive material; a level indicator transmitter in electrical communication with the liquid level indication rod and with the electrical power source, the level indicator transmitter functioning to measure current flow from each of the plurality of contacts to a ground in the liquid so as to determine which of said plurality of electrical contacts lie beneath a surface of the liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventor: Stephen Carson-Rowland
  • Patent number: 7992721
    Abstract: A filter in some embodiments of the invention includes: a housing defining an interior chamber substantially sealed from outside of the housing; a valve located in the chamber biased to a first position where the valve maintains a seal between the interior chamber and outside of the housing; and an anchor fixed to the housing defining a surface for a spring to urge against and bias the valve to the first position and be compressed against when a receiver enters into the housing a moves the valve to a second position, the anchor defining, at least in part, flow paths wherein a pressurized fluid within the housing can communicate with an interior of the receiver to equalize a pressure within the chamber and the interior of the receiver; and a nipple attached to the housing having an interior passageway configured to permit the receiver to pass through in a substantially sealed manner. A method of attaching a filter to a filter receiver is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: SPX Corporation
    Inventor: Mark McMasters
  • Publication number: 20110120577
    Abstract: A device for accumulating, isolating, indicating and venting accumulated gas in a fluid system pipe includes a main pipe fitting affixed to a system pipe in which a hole has been drilled. A stand pipe attached to the pipe fitting houses a magnetic float. A magnetic-float level indicator exterior to the pipe and responsive to the magnetic float indicates the magnetic float's level. A valve attached to the stand pipe above the magnetic float allows controlled ventilation of the gas in the standpipe and thus in the piping system. Gas from the system pipe accumulates in the standpipe, removed from the primary fluid flow path of the system pipe. In the standpipe, as the liquid/gas interface drops, the float drops to a pre-determined level, at which point the user vents the gas from the piping system, causing the magnetic float to rise to a level indicating that gas is again at acceptable levels in the piping system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: Nuccorp, Inc.
    Inventor: Willie Turner Wood, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110094608
    Abstract: A propane system including a refillable and reusable propane cylinder having a volume configured for containing no more than about one pound of propane and a valve assembly detachably coupled to the cylinder. The valve assembly includes a swivel outlet connector configured for operatively coupling the valve assembly to an appliance, a manually activated flow valve arranged for selectively preventing a flow of propane from the cylinder to the appliance, a relief valve and a fixed liquid level gauge configured for alerting a safe filling level of the propane cylinder during cylinder refilling. A back check valve is contained at least partially within a space defined by the swivel outlet connector for selectively allowing the flow of propane out of the valve assembly to a propane fueled appliance or into the valve assembly from a propane source and into the cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: Manchester Tank and Assembly
    Inventor: R. F. Lane, III
  • Patent number: 7921873
    Abstract: A combination overfill protection device, fluid level gauge, includes a service valve having a body defining a set of wrench flats, an input port, and a tank port wherein the overfill protection device has a float that rotates a shaft in response to a change in fluid level, the shaft transitioning the overfill protection device between opened and closed configurations and rotating a magnet within the service valve body proximate the wrench flat and wherein a gauge dial has a dial magnet housing sized to fit proximate to the wrench flat such that rotation of the magnet within the service valve actuates a dial magnet housed substantially in the dial magnet housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Rochester Gauges, Inc.
    Inventors: Herbert G. Ross, Jr., Danny E. Swindler
  • Publication number: 20110079035
    Abstract: A draining device for air control equipment has a bottom shell, a top shell, a knob, a switch and a connecting device. The bottom and top shells are connected to each other. The top shell has two inclined recesses. The knob is mounted through the top shell and has two sliding protrusions mounted in the inclined recesses and two tabs. The switch is mounted in the bottom shell and has a button. The connecting device has a connecting tube, a flange and an end protrusion. The connecting tube is mounted through the top shell. The flange is formed around the connecting tube and is mounted across the tabs. The end protrusion abuts the button. When the knob is rotated, the sliding protrusions move along the inclined recesses to force the knob moving downward. Therefore, the end protrusion pushes the button to turn on the switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventor: Ming-Tsung Chiu
  • Patent number: 7907059
    Abstract: A sewage pipe alarm system includes a portable case seated exterior of the existing pipe. The system further includes a mechanism for detecting a blockage of fluid flow within the existing pipe by determining whether an internal water level within the existing pipe exceeds a threshold water level within the existing pipe. The system further includes a mechanism for notifying a user about the blockage of the existing pipe and a power supply source housed within the case. Such a power supply source is electrically coupled to the detecting mechanism and the notifying mechanism respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Inventor: James Guy
  • Publication number: 20110056568
    Abstract: A compact system is provided for diverting excess flow of liquid such as waste water from a conduit and to retain debris within the conduit. This incorporates a control section (22), which may be generally cylindrical, and arranged to be rotatable about a longitudinal axis (23), and defining a discharge port (24) through which excess water can leave the conduit. In operation, the depth of water in the conduit would be measured (15) downstream of the control section (22), and the rotation of the control section (22) adjusted in accordance with whether the water surface is above or below a depth limit. The discharge port (24) may include a grille to retain any debris, and the apparatus may include brushes (27), scrapers (29) or water jets (26) to dislodge any material held on the grille when the discharge port is at a top centre position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: HYMETRICS LIMITED
    Inventor: Richard Warren Jones
  • Patent number: 7900647
    Abstract: Water leak detection and prevention systems and methods in which water is only delivered to the water pipes in the building when a faucet or appliance demands water and water is delivered through a normally closed shut off water valve. During the period that the main water is shut off, the water pressure in the water pipes is continuously monitored to detect a water leak in the building. Detection of a leak causes an alarm to be sounded and a continued closure of the shut off valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Paul G Tornay
  • Publication number: 20100326546
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for metering a liquid reducing agent into an exhaust gas system. The device can be used, in particular, for reducing nitrogen oxides in an exhaust gas. The device includes at least one working container for holding a working quantity of the liquid reducing agent. In addition, the device is provided with at least one metering module, at least one delivery line, and at least one delivery pump. The device also has at least one storage container for holding a storage quantity of the liquid reducing age, preferably a storage quantity that exceeds the working quantity. The storage container is connected to the working container via at least one storage line. The storage line has at least one storage pump disposed therein for circulating liquid reducing agent from the storage container to the working container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventors: Rainer Haeberer, Matthias Horn, Michael Krause
  • Patent number: 7802587
    Abstract: A valve and method allows efficient closure for a pipe containing liquid. The valve in the preferred form is operated by a float in a sump pit should the sump pump fail to operate. The float is lifted by rising water and an arm attached to the float is supported on rollers when the valve is normally open turns to disengage from the rollers to close the valve. A shaft positioned in the conduit is attached to a cap which reacts to the expansion of a spring to thus close the end of the conduit and prevent further liquid flow therethrough. An audible alarm system sounds as the rising liquid level reaches a water sensor on the valve to warn a homeowner or building occupant. The alarm also sounds when a manual test switch is closed or if the smoke sensor is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Inventor: Ralph A. Ball
  • Publication number: 20100180956
    Abstract: A valve assembly for use in detecting leaks is provided. The valve assembly includes a valve, a power source coupled to the valve, and a sensor coupled to the power source. The sensor is configured to close the valve when exposed to a predetermined amount of fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventor: Terry D. Sharp
  • Patent number: 7753071
    Abstract: A leak detector pad comprising a circuit board having a bottom surface and a top surface, spaced first and second electrically conductive traces located on the bottom surface, and an electronic circuit mounted on the top surface. The circuit includes a first segment adapted to create an alternating current (AC) voltage waveform, a second segment adapted to apply the AC voltage waveform between the traces on the bottom surface of the circuit board, a third segment adapted to create a measure of a capacitance between the traces based upon an AC current flowing between the traces as a result of the AC voltage waveform, and a fourth segment adapted to create a direct current (DC) voltage alarm signal if the measure of capacitance provided by the third segment indicates the presence of fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Altos Limited LC
    Inventor: Jonathan R. Wood
  • Patent number: 7740027
    Abstract: Apparatus applies chemicals to water in an air conditioning condensate tray. It has an elongate reservoir body with an open upper end, a closed lower end, and a central cavity enclosed by an encircling wall. The central cavity receives chemicals to prevent the growth of microorganisms. A closure closes the central cavity. A tubular member is operatively connected at a first end to an aperture in the wall, and has a second end extending outwardly therefrom. The second end is constructed for receiving condensate water from the condensate tray, providing a fluid passage to the central cavity in a first mode of operation when water in the condensate tray is above a preset level; and for dispensing water to the tray from the central cavity in a second mode of operation with chemicals disposed in the water from contact within the central cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: Gregory Coogle
  • Patent number: 7730903
    Abstract: An on-board auxiliary split tank system for supplying makeup water and chemical additives to a transit concrete mixing vehicle is disclosed which includes a generally cylindrical water tank designed for generally horizontal deployment having a shaped recess therein and an additive tank configured to nest in said recess of said water tank and which, when nested in said recess, generally completes said cylindrical shape. The water tank and additive tank are formed from a non-metallic material comprising a polymeric component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas G. Lindblom, Keith A. Kruckeberg, Ryan J. Roudebush, Kevin M. Shaber
  • Patent number: 7726334
    Abstract: A system for determining a fluid level in a pressurizable container comprising is disclosed. The system includes a service valve having a set of wrench flats defining parallel flat surfaces, one of the wrench flats having a recess defined entirely within its flat surface, a stop-fill device interconnected with the service valve and operable to rotate a first magnet inside the service valve in proximity to the recess in proportion to the amount of fluid in the pressurizable container, and a dial assembly having a dial face and a pointer attached to a second magnet, the second magnet housed in a magnet protrusion on a side of the dial face opposite the pointer and operable to fit into the recess in the service valve such that the dial moves on the dial face proportionately to the degree of rotation of the first magnet inside the service valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Rochester Gauges, Inc.
    Inventors: Herbert G. Ross, Jr., Danny E. Swindler
  • Patent number: 7686034
    Abstract: Apparatus applies chemicals to condensate water from an air conditioning condensate tray. It has an elongate body and a central cavity enclosed by an encircling wall. The central cavity receives chemicals to prevent the growth of microorganisms. A first tubular member is operatively connected at a first end to an aperture in the wall, and a second end extending outwardly for receiving condensate water from the condensate tray. A second tubular member is operatively connected to a second aperture in the wall opposite the first aperture aligned with the first member so that a cleaning brush may be passed through both members and into the condensate tray. Below the two tubular members a fluid outlet is provided with a connector for joining to a drainage system for draining the chemically treated condensate water from the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventor: Gregory Coogle