Liquid Level Responsive Indicator, Recorder Or Alarm Patents (Class 137/558)
  • Publication number: 20100006163
    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: January 12, 2009
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: Vitec. LLC
    Inventors: Ryan Templeton, Marc Renaud, Karim Amellal, Chadi Farran
  • Patent number: 7644727
    Abstract: A hydraulic fluid reservoir and hydraulic pump combination has at least one hydraulic fluid port and includes a container with a hollow body having a top and a conduit having a bottom within the container and a top above the bottom. The conduit has an opening adjacent to the bottom of the conduit. The opening is spaced apart below the top of the container. A closure member is releasably, sealingly connected to the top of the conduit. Hydraulic fluid can be added to the container via the conduit up to the level of the opening of the conduit. Addition of further hydraulic fluid fills the conduit to the top thereof and the conduit overflows if additional hydraulic fluid is added after the top of the conduit is reached by the fluid. Preferably the container has a main interior chamber and a smaller chamber which is adjacent to one of the side walls of the container. The smaller chamber is has a bottom opening near the bottom of the smaller chamber which communicates with the main interior chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Teleflex Canada Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Brian Dudra, Eric B. Fetchko
  • Patent number: 7631658
    Abstract: A water supply system (1) having at least one pressure pump (9), at least one pressure tank (3) and a plurality of water tanks (2) and (36). A submersible pump (37) is connected to a well (38) and a main water tank (36), which is connected to the other water tanks (2) via hoses (4), is connected to the pressure pump (9). The pressure pump (9), in turn, is connected to the pressure tank (3). Finally, the pressure tank (3) is connected to a plurality of water supply pipes (5) which supply water to varying areas of a plant. The main water tank (36) contains a plurality of float switches (28) at varying levels so as to indicate when the water supply needs to be activated, when the water tanks (2) and (36) are getting low and when the water tanks (2) and (36) are extremely low and the pressure pump (9) needs to be deactivated. When the pressure pump (9) is deactivated, the water is pumped from a submersible pump (37) to fill the water tanks (2) and (36).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventor: Theodore H. Graeve, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090301167
    Abstract: An apparatus for indicating a volume of liquid flow, comprising a liquid sensor for sensing the presence of a liquid, a timer activated when the liquid sensor indicates the presence of a liquid, a calculator to calculate the volume of liquid flow dependent upon the time for which the timer is activated, and an indicator to provide an indication of the volume of fluid calculated by the calculation means
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicants: Priestman Goode, Cambridge Design Partnership LLP
    Inventors: Paul Priestman, Mike Beadman
  • Patent number: 7624756
    Abstract: An assembly mounts between the drain pan that collects condensate water from an air conditioner and the drain line. It includes a housing with a first end connected to the pan. A second end connects to the drain line. A shut off valve shuts off the passage to the pan while maintenance is performed. A connector is mounted on the housing between the valve and the second end. It is a female member of a quick-connect coupling. A male member of the coupling may be plugged in with a single motion to seal it in place. Male members have different terminations, including a barbed tube for resilient tubing, a compressed air tire valve for delivering gas, a female water hose coupling, a tapered funnel for the nozzle of vacuum/blower, and a water sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventor: Gregory Coogle
  • Publication number: 20090288717
    Abstract: The present invention provides an open-topped flood-prevention sump well extension. A cylindrical wall placed around a sump pit extends above the floor level to the proximity of a sewer or septic drain. A connecting pipe automatically drains the overflow attendant to a malfunctioning or overloaded sump pump to the sewer or septic system. A means for preventing backflow of sewer discharge is provided by a one-way valve or a plumbing trap. An alarm system is provided for signaling rising water level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Inventor: Brett Allan Lenox
  • Patent number: 7610927
    Abstract: An apparatus, a system and a method monitor fluid flows and/or filter conditions and/or distribute a single fluid. The apparatus and the system supply and/or maintain fluid requirements of one or more hydraulic systems with the single fluid from a reservoir. The filtered inlets transfer and/or add the single fluid to an interior of the reservoir. Each of the filtered inlets have a sensor to monitor, to detect and/or to determine fluid flows and/or fluid conditions of the single fluid in and/or filter conditions of one or more filtered inlets. Distribution of the single fluid to one or more hydraulic systems is prioritized by a single fluid in a first volume or in a second volume of an interior of the reservoir. A partition in the interior of the reservoir separates and/or forms the second volume and the first volume of the reservoir. The reservoir has one or more outlet ports for distributing and/or for supplying the single fluid to one or more hydraulic systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Inventor: Geoffrey W. Schmitz
  • Patent number: 7604017
    Abstract: The present invention provides a water ingress detection system (1) suitable for use in indicating the ingress of water (12) onto a pipe (2) or vessel inside a casing (3), from outside. The system (1) comprises a deflector (4) secured to the underside (7) of the pipe (2) inside the casing (3) provided thereon, a conduit (8) coupled to the deflector (4) for leading water (12) away from the pipe (2) to a water-sensing indicator device (13). The indicator device (13) has a signal output portion (17) disposed externally of the casing (3) for signalling the presence of water (11). The deflector (4) is formed and arranged for intercepting water (12) running along the exterior (7) of the pipe (2) inside the casing (3) and diverting it into the conduit (8), and the conduit (8) and water-sensing indicator device (13) are formed and arranged so that the indicator device (13) can sense substantially only water (12) intercepted by the deflector (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Inventor: Leonard O'Hara
  • Publication number: 20090229539
    Abstract: A condensate trap for a condensing boiler has a generally hollow body for receiving condensate from a heat exchanger of the condensing boiler and for providing a path of flow for condensate out of the side of the boiler. The body of the condensate trap includes a condensate receiving end having an inlet, a condensate discharging end having an outlet, and an intermediate reversely-turned trap portion interconnecting the condensate receiving and discharging ends. The hollow body can be one-piece and molded of plastic. A level sensor can be mounted on or within the condensate receiving end of the body. In a preferred embodiment, the condensate receiving end includes a chamber with an opening, and the level sensor extends within the chamber and seals the opening. The condensate trap can also include an air vent located above the level sensor in communication with an air pressure sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: BURNHAM SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Robert J. Young
  • Patent number: 7583198
    Abstract: A low cost, robust, wireless sensor system that provides an extended period of operability without maintenance is described. The system includes one or more intelligent sensor units and a base unit that can communicate with a large number of sensors. When one or more of the sensors detects an anomalous condition (e.g., smoke, fire, water, etc.) the sensor communicates with the base unit and provides data regarding the anomalous condition. The base unit can contact a supervisor or other responsible person by a plurality of techniques, such as, telephone, pager, cellular telephone, Internet, etc. In one embodiment, one or more wireless repeaters are used between the sensors and the base unit to extend the range of the system and to allow the base unit to communicate with a larger number of sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventor: Lawrence Kates
  • Patent number: 7575015
    Abstract: An in-dispenser leak pan provided inside the housing of a fuel dispenser. The leak collection chamber collects any fuel that leaks from fuel-handling components located inside the fuel dispenser above the pan. The pan is secondarily contained by an outer pan or container such that an interstitial space is formed therebetween. If a breach exists in the top part of the pan, the captured leaked fuel will be contained in by the outer pan in the interstitial space. The interstitial space of the pan is drawn under a vacuum level using a vacuum-generating source to monitor for leaks. If a leak is detected, a control system may generate an alarm and/or cause the submersible turbine pump to stop supplying fuel, or cause the dispenser product line shear valves to close, thereby only stopping fuel flow to the individual fuel dispenser containing the leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Gilbarco, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent Reid, Ray Hutchinson, John S. McSpadden, Jeremy R. Baillargeon, David J. Bolt
  • Patent number: 7575022
    Abstract: A diverter (170, 270) atop the upper wall (110) of a cartridge (100) and over the opening (114, 115) therein avoids direct access of urine to the opening and the sealant (105) within the cartridge. The diverter is spaced by standoffs (182, 282) from the upper wall to provide a urine flow passage. A float (274) can be incorporated in the diverter to provide a visible signal of the presence of collected urine on the cartridge upper wall. A pre-treatment chemically-constituted tablet (210) held by a retainer (200) in the diverter provides sanitizing and/or deodorizing means. Post-treatment chemically-constituted tablets (224a) or pellets (224b) placeable at the outlet of the cartridge protect the drain pipe from corrosion and other harm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Falcon Waterfree Technologie
    Inventor: Michael Higgins
  • Publication number: 20090159140
    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: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: WashTec Holding GmbH
    Inventor: Robert Auer
  • Patent number: 7549435
    Abstract: A fluid leak detection system includes a sensor, a control module and a valve module. The sensor is adapted to be placed near a fluid source, such as a water supply line of an appliance. The valve module advantageously includes a motorized ball valve or a magnetic latch configured to arrest fluid flow through a supply line. The control module actuates the valve module and an audible alarm when the sensor detects a fluid leak. The valve module closes a valve positioned along the water line to restrict flow through the water line until the control unit has been manually reset or until the leaked fluid has been removed. The control module also features user inputs to allow the valve to be manually cycled for cleaning, for instance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Onsite Pro, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott A. Walter
  • Patent number: 7500489
    Abstract: A contained pipeline and leak detection system includes a primary pipeline section surrounded by a secondary pipeline section and an interstitial space formed between the primary pipeline section and the secondary pipeline section. A pressurized fluid reservoir having a volume of fluid, and in fluid communication with the interstitial space is provided. The fluid in the interstitial space has a pressure greater than the pressure of a fluid inside the primary pipeline section. A sensor detects changes in the volume of fluid in the fluid reservoir, which are indicative of leakage or system malfunction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Ameron International Corporation
    Inventor: Joie L. Folkers
  • Patent number: 7490624
    Abstract: A valve apparatus includes a housing, which defines an interior chamber, a baffle disposed in the interior chamber, and a volume of liquid. The housing includes first, second and third portions. The first portion includes first and second ports that communicate with the interior chamber. The second portion is spaced from the first portion along a longitudinal axis. And the third portion extends along the longitudinal axis between the first and second portions. The baffle at least partially defines a helical fluid flow path between the first and second ports, and the volume of the liquid is disposed in the second portion of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Canada, Inc.
    Inventors: Gilles Delaire, Kirk Ivens, Paul D. Perry, Andre Veinotte
  • Patent number: 7487793
    Abstract: A valve assembly, such as a tap for a liquefied gas cylinder, includes an overfill protection device and a liquid level gauge having an electrode assembly comprising a pair of lamellar electrodes mounted closely adjacent a housing member of the overfill protection device and deflectable into close proximity with a float of the overfill protection device for insertion into the gas cylinder. A circuit board is provided, preferably mounted on the electrode assembly, and has an electronic converter circuit for measuring the electrical capacitance between the electrodes and producing in response to the measured capacitance an output signal representative of the liquid level in the container. A display means is mounted on a body of the valve assembly or remote therefrom, to indicate the liquid level in the container in response to the output signal from the electronic converter circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Torrent Trading Ltd.
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Schmitz, Linze Hoekstra
  • Patent number: 7489253
    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: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Kevin M. Murphy, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin Michael Murphy
  • Patent number: 7441569
    Abstract: A wireless tank level monitoring system is provided. The system includes a transmitter that is located in close proximity to the storage tank. The transmitter is coupled to a remote-ready tank level gauge, which provides a ratio-metric voltage output proportional to the liquid volume inside the tank. The transmitter periodically monitors the output from the level gauge and transmits the information to a base station located remotely from the storage tank. The base station displays the tank level numerically in percent full, graphically with a bar chart, or both. A conspicuous visual indication is provided by the base station when the tank level drops below a predetermined set point. In battery powered applications, the base station also reads and provides a visual indication of a low battery condition for both the transmitter and base station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventor: Benjamin N. Lease
  • Patent number: 7401625
    Abstract: To detect the volume of gas remaining in a gas bottle or a fixed tank of a system for supplying liquefied gas as fuel for a combustion engine, a positive temperature coefficient (or PTC) probe (16) is placed in the gas feed line (12) between the gas source and the combustion engine. The PTC probe (16) detects the change of phase, from the liquid phase of the liquefied gas to the gaseous phase, in the feed line (12) and delivers an electrical signal to an electronic circuit that triggers a visual or audible signal in response to the detection of the phase change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Luxembourg Patent Company, S.A.
    Inventor: Michaël Casier
  • Publication number: 20080035216
    Abstract: A water supply system (1) having at least one pressure pump (9), at least one pressure tank (3) and a plurality of water tanks (2) and (36). A submersible pump (37) is connected to a well (38) and a main water tank (36), which is connected to the other water tanks (2) via hoses (4), is connected to the pressure pump (9). The pressure pump (9), in turn, is connected to the pressure tank (3). Finally, the pressure tank (3) is connected to a plurality of water supply pipes (5) which supply water to varying areas of a plant. The main water tank (36) contains a plurality of float switches (28) at varying levels so as to indicate when the water supply needs to be activated, when the water tanks (2) and (36) are getting low and when the water tanks (2) and (36) are extremely low and the pressure pump (9) needs to be deactivated. When the pressure pump (9) is deactivated, the water is pumped from a submersible pump (37) to fill the water tanks (2) and (36).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Theodore H. Graeve
  • Patent number: 7314509
    Abstract: A gas/liquid phase separator includes a fluid inlet, a vapor outlet, a liquid outlet, and first and second valves disposed in fluid communication with the liquid outlet. Both valves are controllable in response to a fluid level in the gas/liquid phase separator. Both valves are further disposed in parallel fluid communication with each other. A method of controlling a liquid level in the phase separator includes sensing an amount of liquid in the phase separator, sensing a system pressure, and selectively opening a valve disposed in fluid communication with the phase separator to drain the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Proton Energy System, Inc.
    Inventors: A. John Speranza, Andrzej E. Stanek, Angelo A. Morson, Justin D. Baltrucki
  • Patent number: 7306008
    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: April 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Inventor: Paul G. Tornay
  • Patent number: 7302964
    Abstract: A housing and a method of using a liquid for controlling vapor flow through a valve apparatus between a canister and atmospheric conditions. The housing includes a container and a first partition that projects from the housing into the liquid and divides the vapor chamber into first and second vapor sub-chambers. A second partition projects from the container into the first vapor sub-chamber. And a third partition projects from the container into the second vapor sub-chamber. The housing contains the liquid in an upright arrangement of the valve apparatus, and prevents the liquid from flowing out of the container in a non-upright arrangement of the valve apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive Canada Inc.
    Inventors: Paul D. Perry, Andre Veinotte
  • Patent number: 7249609
    Abstract: A yard hydrant having a valve body with a valve seat and a drain port. A closure valve disposed within the valve body and engaging the valve seat. The valve body having a conduit in fluid communication with the drain port and a hollow interior of the valve body. A check valve disposed within the conduit to prevent fluid flow from the drain port through the conduit to the hollow interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Patent number: 7246636
    Abstract: A hydraulic fluid reservoir and hydraulic pump combination has at least one hydraulic fluid port and includes a container with a hollow body having a top and a conduit having a bottom within the container and a top above the bottom. The conduit has an opening adjacent to the bottom of the conduit. The opening is spaced apart below the top of the container. A closure member is releasably, sealingly connected to the top of the conduit. Hydraulic fluid can be added to the container via the conduit up to the level of the opening of the conduit. Addition of further hydraulic fluid fills the conduit to the top thereof and the conduit overflows if additional hydraulic fluid is added after the top of the conduit is reached by the fluid. Preferably the container has a main interior chamber and a smaller chamber which is adjacent to one of the side walls of the container. The smaller chamber is has a bottom opening near the bottom of the smaller chamber which communicates with the main interior chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Teleflex Canada Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Brian Dudra, Eric B. Fetchko
  • Patent number: 7240690
    Abstract: A valve assembly, such as a tap for a liquefied gas cylinder, includes an overfill protection device and a liquid level gauge having an electrode assembly comprising a pair of lamellar electrodes mounted closely adjacent a housing member of the overfill protection device and deflectable into close proximity with a float of the overfill protection device for insertion into the gas cylinder. A circuit board is provided, preferably mounted on the electrode assembly, and has an electronic converter circuit for measuring the electrical capacitance between the electrodes and producing in response to the measured capacitance an output signal representative of the liquid level in the container. A display means is mounted on a body of the valve assembly or remote therefrom, to indicate the liquid level in the container in response to the output signal from the electronic converter circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Torrent Trading Ltd.
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Schmitz, Linze Hoekstra
  • Patent number: 7229233
    Abstract: A double walled riser sump has an annular space between the two walls. The provision of the annular space provides for monitoring the integrity of the two walls of the sump. The two walls of the sump are preferably separated by a thin film or a distance fabric that allows the passage of fluids, and preferably liquids. The annular space may be in fluid communication with a reservoir holding a monitoring fluid and positioned near the top of the sump to be easily accessible. In some embodiments, a top of the riser sump is also double walled and the top annular space is in fluid communication with the annular space between the vertical walls. If a leak develops in either wall of the sump, a corresponding drop in the fluid level of the reservoir will occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: Xerxes Corporation
    Inventors: John Burwell, Michael G. Zais, Roberto Sanchez
  • Patent number: 7219686
    Abstract: This invention relates to a tap assembly for a liquid vessel, having an overfill protection device and a float controlled mechanical or magnetic level gauge. A single float actuates a stem of the overfill protection device as well as a rod of the level gauge. The rod of the level gauge has one end movable linearly in a valve body bore and carrying a permanent magnet for actuating a magnetic level indicator. In one embodiment a crank mechanism may be provided between a float lever and the rod of the level gauge to cause the rod to effectuate a swinging movement and simultaneously displace the rod longitudinally to cause linear displacement of the permanent magnet in the valve body bore. In another embodiment the rod may be actuated by a cam to cause axial displacement thereof without swinging motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Torrent Trading Ltd.
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Schmitz, Privat Roderes
  • Patent number: 7216670
    Abstract: A buoyant liquid level indicator device is positioned within liquid drain apparatus having a trough accommodating liquid to form a liquid seal to prevent passage of gas through the liquid drain apparatus. The indicator device will float and be exposed to an outside observer only when a liquid seal is formed by the liquid drain apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: NSERTASEAL Corporation
    Inventor: David Kozlowski
  • Patent number: 7218237
    Abstract: A system for detecting water leaks is described. In one embodiment, the system includes a plurality of sensors, selected from a moisture sensor, a water level sensor, and/or a water temperature sensor. A processor collects moisture readings from the sensors. In one embodiment, the processor reports a possible water leak when a moisture sensor detects moisture above a moisture threshold value. In one embodiment, the processor report a water leak when the water level reading exceeds a water threshold value and/or when the temperature reading exceeds a temperature threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventor: Lawrence Kates
  • Patent number: 7174912
    Abstract: A shut-off valve assembly for regulating the flow of fluid through or from a fluid line. The assembly comprises: a body attachable to or within a fluid line and having a chamber therein with inlets and an outlet for fluid from the fluid line; a valve seat that provides the outlet; a baffle arrangement including a baffle housing; a valve member having a sealing member movable between a shielded position, whereby the sealing member is substantially shielded by the baffle housing from a fluid stream moving from the inlets to outlet, and an unshielded position, whereby the sealing member can be forced by the fluid stream against the valve seat to seal the outlet; and a solenoid-spring drive for moving the sealing member between the shielded and unshielded positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventor: Howard Lowe
  • Patent number: 7171982
    Abstract: A hydraulic fluid reservoir and hydraulic pump combination has at least one hydraulic fluid port and includes a container with a hollow body having a top and a conduit having a bottom within the container and a top above the bottom. The conduit has an opening adjacent to the bottom of the conduit. The opening is spaced apart below the top of the container. A closure member is releasably, sealingly connected to the top of the conduit. Hydraulic fluid can be added to the container via the conduit up to the level of the opening of the conduit. Addition of further hydraulic fluid fills the conduit to the top thereof and the conduit overflows if additional hydraulic fluid is added after the top of the conduit is reached by the fluid. Preferably the container has a main interior chamber and a smaller chamber which is adjacent to one of the side walls of the container. The smaller chamber is has a bottom opening near the bottom of the smaller chamber which communicates with the main interior chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Teleflex Canada Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Brian Dudra
  • Patent number: 7161492
    Abstract: A device, having a container for holding a fluid moving therein and a conductance probe installed therein for providing a conductance signal indicating whether it is in contact with the fluid, features a jiggler arrangement having a jiggler arranged on the conductance probe so as to form a mechanical self-cleaning conductance probe, which responds to movement of the fluid, for wiping the conductance probe to keep deposits from building up on the conductance probe. The jiggler arrangement may include one or more grooves thereon so that the jiggler can be loosely fitted on the tip between one or more retaining rings arranged in the one or more grooves. The jiggler arrangement may include one or more retaining rings snap-fit on the tip for loosely arranging and retaining the jiggler on the tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: ITT Industries
    Inventors: John E. Branzell, Christopher J. Thomson
  • Patent number: 7129832
    Abstract: A high/low level alarm controller having ability to interface with level sensing equipment and instrumentation in a manner that isolates the controller from downstream components is presented. The controller accepts power, logic and transduced level inputs; output from the controller is available to drive relays, solenoid valves, motors, pumps, alarm horns, etc. The high/low level alarm controller is ideal for existing/retrofit applications and new installations alike.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventor: Daniel Sabatino
  • Patent number: 7111636
    Abstract: A leak collection chamber is provided inside the housing of a fuel dispenser. The leak collection chamber collects any leaked fuel from fuel handling components inside the fuel dispenser so that the fuel does not leak to the environment. The leak collection chamber can be removed from the fuel dispenser for evacuation. The control system inside the fuel dispenser can determine the liquid level inside the leak containment chamber and generate signals and alarms if the liquid level exceeds a threshold liquid level value and/or the rate of increase in liquid level exceeds a threshold liquid level increase value. The control system can alert service personnel and/or other systems of the leak collection chamber liquid level. Further, the control system and/or other systems shut down the submersible turbine pump that services the fuel dispenser with fuel in response to catastrophic leak condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, John S. McSpadden
  • Patent number: 7104278
    Abstract: A leak collection chamber is provided inside the housing of a fuel dispenser. The leak collection chamber collects any leaked fuel from fuel handling components inside the fuel dispenser so that the fuel does not leak to the environment. The leak collection chamber can be removed from the fuel dispenser for evacuation. The control system inside the fuel dispenser can determine the liquid level inside the leak containment chamber and generate signals and alarms if the liquid level exceeds a threshold liquid level value and/or the rate of increase in liquid level exceeds a threshold liquid level increase value. The control system can alert service personnel and/or other systems of the leak collection chamber liquid level. Further, the control system and/or other systems shut down the submersible turbine pump that services the fuel dispenser with fuel in response to catastrophic leak condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Ray J. Hutchinson, John S. McSpadden
  • Patent number: 7100632
    Abstract: A sump liner comprising a liner wall joined with a base member, the liner wall extending about the periphery of the base member, the liner wall comprising a primary reservoir portion and a secondary reservoir portion, with a weir extending from the base member and the inside surface of the liner wall. The weir divides the sump liner interior into a primary reservoir and a secondary reservoir, with a primary pump to remove water from the primary reservoir and a secondary pump to remove water from the secondary reservoir. The primary reservoir receives drainage water through an inlet pipe. The secondary reservoir receives drainage water that flows over the weir in the event the primary pump in the primary reservoir fails, in which case the secondary pump in the secondary reservoir pumps out the water. The weir may have an inverted V-shape. A sump liner and with a vented lid bolted to it to form an airtight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Inventor: Alden Harwood
  • Patent number: 7093611
    Abstract: A water feeder controller for a boiler monitors a low water cutoff sensor in a boiler and uses a feed timer to feed water to the boiler for a predetermined feed period of time. The feed timer brings the water level in the boiler well above the low water cutoff sensor. The feed timer supplies water to the boiler only if the low water cutoff sensor continues to indicate a low water level for a delay period of time measured by a delay timer. A resettable display indicates the quantity of water supplied by the water feeder to the boiler based on a feed counter incremented during water feeding. A manual feed button allows water to be manually fed to the boiler. The quantity of water manually supplied to the boiler is also shown on the display. The feed timer and delay timer are preferably implemented in software in a microcontroller in the water feeder controller. A lockout loop in the software prevents overfeeding of water to the boiler in the event of a failure of the low water cutoff sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: C. Cowles & Company
    Inventors: Christopher L Murray, Richard A Lyons
  • Patent number: 7066195
    Abstract: This invention prevents blockage that occurs in the general drainage traps of buildings. The invention consists in connecting a conduit by positioning it in the inlet part above the trap water float level (M) and in the outlet part below a line (N) thereby forming a new auxiliary trap. The invention is suitable for use in traps in buildings which are connected to the common sewage system. The invention informs and thereby prevents the obstruction of the trap by the use of an alarm which is installed in the conduit wherein the water is diverted due to gravity when the conduit is obstructed and signals any obstruction in the conduit so that it can be cleared without waiting for the consequences of such a situation to occur. Also although water flows freely through the auxiliary trap section air does not freely communicate between the inlet and outlet pipes and foul odors are avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Juan Anguera Font
  • Patent number: 7011102
    Abstract: A contained pipeline and leak detection system having a plurality of pipeline sections adjoined to one or more fluid reservoirs, and a method of detecting leakage in the system are provided. Each pipeline section includes a primary pipeline section and a secondary pipeline section disposed around the primary pipeline section, defining an interstitial space therebetween. The pipeline sections are adjoined by a fitting that maintains fluid communication between the primary and secondary pipeline sections, and the interstitial spaces. Fluid is disposed within the interstitial spaces and the fitting such that fluid entering or exiting the interstitial spaces or the fitting, changes the volume of fluid in the fluid reservoir. An alarm system is connected to the fluid reservoir having a sensor that detects changes in the volume of fluid in the fluid reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Ameron International Corporation
    Inventor: Joie L. Folkers
  • Patent number: 6962166
    Abstract: A hydraulic fluid reservoir and hydraulic pump combination has at least one hydraulic fluid port and includes a container with a hollow body having a top and a conduit having a bottom within the container and a top above the bottom. The conduit has an opening adjacent to the bottom of the conduit. The opening is spaced apart below the top of the container. A closure member is releasably, sealingly connected to the top of the conduit. Hydraulic fluid can be added to the container via the conduit up to the level of the opening of the conduit. Addition of further hydraulic fluid fills the conduit to the top thereof and the conduit overflows if additional hydraulic fluid is added after the top of the conduit is reached by the fluid. Preferably the container has a main interior chamber and a smaller chamber which is adjacent to one of the side walls of the container. The smaller chamber is has a bottom opening near the bottom of the smaller chamber which communicates with the main interior chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Teleflex Canada Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Brian Dudra
  • Patent number: 6948522
    Abstract: A reconstitution device is disclosed and includes a first container receiver having a first component cannula disposed therein, the first component cannula having a withdrawal port and a first transfer port formed thereon, a second container receiver having a second component cannula disposed thereon, the second component cannula having a vent port and a second transfer port formed thereon, a device body coupling the first container receiver to the second container receiver and having a transfer lumen formed therein, the transfer lumen in fluid communication with the first and second transfer ports, a selectively sealing interface secured to the device body and in fluid communication with the withdrawal port, and a venting member in communication with the vent port through a vent lumen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry W. Newbrough, James S. Slepicka, Arnold C. Bilstad, John Mark DeFoggi, Marianne M. Boschelli, Alice M. Jandrisits, Bihong Wu
  • Patent number: 6938635
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a novel level switch which may be employed to detect liquid levels within a process vessel. The level switch of the present invention is self validating so that manual testing is not required in order to ensure proper operation and switch calibration. The switch of the present invention may be easily introduced into existing process vessel designs as a replacement for prior art level detection switches with minimal or no retrofitting effort being required. The self validating level switch of the present invention may be connected to a Safety Instrumented System (SIS) such that process control including process shutdowns to avoid overfilling and low-fluid conditions may be accomplished.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company
    Inventor: Daniel B. Bolland
  • Patent number: 6854479
    Abstract: A sump liner comprising a liner wall joined with a base member, the liner wall extending about the periphery of the base member, the liner wall comprising a primary reservoir portion and a secondary reservoir portion, with a weir extending from the base member and the inside surface of the liner wall. The weir divides the sump liner interior into a primary reservoir and a secondary reservoir, with a primary pump to remove water from the primary reservoir and a secondary pump to remove water from the secondary reservoir. The primary reservoir receives drainage water through an inlet pipe. The secondary reservoir receives drainage water that flows over the weir in the event the primary pump in the primary reservoir fails, in which case the secondary pump in the secondary reservoir pumps out the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: Alden Harwood
  • Patent number: 6823886
    Abstract: A sump for inhibiting leakage of liquid includes a double wall for at least part of the sump, and an interstitial space between the double wall. An indicator liquid is located in the space, and a sensor is in fluid communication with the space such that a change in the pressure or liquid level in the interstitial space causes the sensor to indicate leakage into or from the interstitial space. The double wall includes a base, a wall directed upwardly from the base of the sump, and the upwardly directed wall includes an angular portion being directed at an angle from the base greater than 90 degrees relative to the base. A remote location of that portion is connected with a substantially upright wall portion for the sump. An aperture for an electrical conduit is located in the angular portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: S. Bravo Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Sergio M. Bravo, Don K. Mukai
  • Patent number: 6792923
    Abstract: A fuel supply system for a vehicle, the fuel supply system being comprised of a fuel tank, a fuel pump installed in the fuel tank, a fuel level detection unit which is comprised of a float and a sensor member which detects a vertical displacement of the float, and a pressing member which presses with elasticity the sensor member against the inside bottom of the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Hitachi Unisia Automotive, Ltd.
    Inventors: Masato Kumagai, Toru Mashimo, Satoru Watanabe
  • Publication number: 20040112438
    Abstract: An electrical switch for a level detection device in a functional fluid container (12) of a motor vehicle brake system, comprises two electrically conductive terminals (32, 34) and a first reed bulb (36), forming a dipole electrically connected to the two conductive terminals (32, 34). The reed bulb (36) is capable of occupying two states, one open and one closed, each state depending on whether the situation is normal or exceptional.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventors: Alain Benoit, Remi Demerssemann, Philippe Come, Emmanuel Fraisse
  • Publication number: 20040089351
    Abstract: A valve assembly with low gas level signaling and controlling function includes a primary valve threadedly engaged with an outlet of a tank, the primary valve being formed with a recess in which is fitted a plunger having an upper end extending upwardly through the primary valve to engage with a knob, a low level linking device comprising a tubular tube connected with a bottom of the primary valve, a flexible rod having an end extending upwardly through the tubular tube to connect with the primary valve and another end connected with an end of a float rod, and a float connected with another end of the float rod, and a release rod connected a pusher which is operatively connected with the primary valve so that when the release rod is turned, the pusher will move down the flexible rod to open the primary valve, whereby the valve assembly can detect the amount of gas remaining in a gas tank and will close when the level has decreased to a certain level thereby alerting the users and enabling them to replenish th
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2002
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventor: Kuo-Cheng Tseng
  • Patent number: 6725800
    Abstract: An accumulating whistling vent for indicating a level of liquid in a tank having a vent line is disclosed. The whistling vent includes a whistle housing reservoir which has mounting tubes extending from either ends. A whisle is housed in the whistle housing reservoir by insertion into one of the mounting tubes. The whistling vent is coupled between the vent line of the tank such that the tube containing the whistle is closest to the tank. As liquid is introduced into the tank an audible signal is produced by the whistle. Once full, air flowing from the tank through the vent line is replaced by the incoming liquid, thus muting the whistle. Excess liquid is accumulated in the reservoir prior to discharge from the vent line, thereby providing additional time to respond to the change in audible signal. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a transparent reservoir is used to provide a visual indicator in addition to the change in audible signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Enviro Technology Products, Ltd.
    Inventor: Murray Hawkins