Liquid Level Responsive Indicator, Recorder Or Alarm Patents (Class 137/558)
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Patent number: 5893385Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a liquid discharging device for discharging liquid stored on a bottom wall of an interior of a compressed natural gas tank of a vehicle, comprising a liquid discharging pipe for discharging the liquid from the compressed natural gas tank to an outside of the compressed natural gas tank. The liquid discharging pipe has an open end which is open into the interior of the compressed natural gas tank at a position adjacent to an inner face of the bottom wall of the compressed natural gas tank. Further, the liquid discharging device comprises a liquid discharging control valve arranged in the liquid discharging pipe to discharge the liquid due to the pressure of the natural gas when the liquid discharging control valve is opened.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 1997Date of Patent: April 13, 1999Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kouhei Igarashi
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Patent number: 5887616Abstract: A liquid tank includes a tank body forming a reservoir for gasoline G, a flexible partition film 1 arranged in the tank body 1 to divide a space in the tank body into two vertical spaces, a float positioned on the gasoline G, an arm 3 for converting a high and low position of the float 3 into a rotational position of the arm 5, and a potentiometer 5 for detecting a position of the flexible partition film. Since the gasoline G is covered with the partition film, the gasoline G does not vaporize into the air in the tank body an. Even if the gasoline surface is slanted to the tank body an by an acceleration of the vehicle, the flexible partition film serves to restrict the inclination of the surface. Therefore, it is possible to precisely a residual amounts of the gasoline G irrespective of the inclination.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1996Date of Patent: March 30, 1999Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventors: Kimihiko Ikeda, Kazuyuki Sasaki, Ichiro Kataoka, Kunimitsu Aoki, Shozo Ashizawa, Shinji Narama
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Patent number: 5881762Abstract: A walled enclosure assembly adapted to be installed around the base of a water-containing appliance and bonded to the support floor to contain leakage therefrom without disturbing the appliance. The walled assembly comprises a plurality of wall segments, each having base flange, an upright wall and wall ends, each adapted to be bonded to the end of an aligned wall segment to form a continuous walled enclosure assembly. The assembly is designed to surround the base of a water-containing appliance, with the undersurfaces of the base flanges being bonded to the supporting floor to contain any leakage from the appliance. Preferably an integral drain tube is incorporated, and/or an automatic alarm means is attached which is activatable to signal excessive leakage.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1997Date of Patent: March 16, 1999Inventor: Lawrence M. Janesky
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Patent number: 5857482Abstract: An overflow control system includes a vessel having a liquid input and output, the vessel having a top and bottom defined by the gravity vector. The system further includes a housing peripherally surrounding the vessel about all surfaces, other than the bottom, to provide a fluid and thermal insulation region between the vessel and the housing. The system also includes a liquid collection chamber formed integrally beneath the vessel and housing, and in fluid communication with the insulation region. A leak or fracture of the vessel will result in an accumulation of liquid in the collection chamber. The system further includes a normally open electrically actuatable solenoid disposed within the liquid input. Within the liquid output of the vessel is provided a check valve for closing the output responsive to any gradient of fluid pressure in the direction of the vessel in excess of a reference level.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 1996Date of Patent: January 12, 1999Inventor: Donald C. Dowling
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Optimum electrolyte level sensing method and the automatic topping up apparatus for storage wet cell
Patent number: 5841355Abstract: The optimum electrolyte level sensing method and the automatic topping up apparatus for storage wet cell are disclosed. The difference in the conductivities between the distilled water and the electrolyte is utilized. An injection outlet portion (15), an adjust ring (14), and two wires are used to detect the optimum electrolyte level to supply distilled water to storage cells. The feedback control to maintain the constant optimum electrolyte level of storage cells is carried out by a single microprocessor.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 1996Date of Patent: November 24, 1998Assignee: Korea Atomic Energy Research InstituteInventors: Sang-Min Bae, Young-Joon Son, Jae-Won Lee -
Patent number: 5823097Abstract: An apparatus for collecting, storing, and transferring waste cooking oil from commercial fryers. The present device includes a holding tank having a sloped bottom wall, an input conduit for connection to a supply of waste grease or oil, and an output conduit for transferring the oil to a disposal facility. The holding tank includes a pump having an internal grinder for pulverizing solids such as chicken parts or french fries, and the pump is operated by a drive motor having limiting timer which prevents the motor and/or pump from being destroyed if inadvertently left on. A system of float switches mounted within the holding tank monitor the level of waste oil in the chamber, and trigger an internal heating element which prevents the oil form solidifying. The float switches also activate external warning lights which alert the operator when the tank is ar or near capacity, and also interrupt the pump operation to prevent overfill.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1997Date of Patent: October 20, 1998Inventor: Ronald L. Dirck
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Patent number: 5810040Abstract: A container for storing in particular water-endangering liquids has an inner wall and an outer wall spaced therefrom. In the lower area of the container is connected a pipeline forming a lower outlet and which is formed by an inner pipe and an outer pipe surrounding it. At the inner pipe end remote from the container is positioned a shutoff fitting and the outer pipe issues into a protective casing tightly surrounding the shutoff fitting. The gaps between the two walls and between the two pipes, as well as the inner space of the protective casing are monitored for a possible leak. So that when liquid is removed its unintentional escape in the case of damage can be reliably avoided, from the shutoff fitting a further extending pipeline extends outwards in sealed manner through the protective casing.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1996Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Assignee: Walter Ludwig Behalter - und StahlbauInventor: Klaus Dieter Ludwig
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Patent number: 5771917Abstract: A buffer system for separating an aseptic fluid handling assembly from a drain includes a fluid receiving housing in fluid flow communication with a fluid discharge outlet of the aseptic fluid handling assembly. A trapped fluid discharge opening near the bottom of the housing, includes a tube which extends above the bottom into a baffle container. The baffle container is in the form of an enclosure having openings at the bottom thereof to admit fluids contained in the housing. A discharge conduit is in fluid flow communication with the discharge opening. A first fluid level detector in the housing activates at least one valve in the discharge conduit by a control which opens and closes the valve in response selected fluid levels detected by the fluid level detector. In a preferred embodiment the first fluid level detect detects a fluid level exceeding a preselected depth in the housing and a second fluid level detector detects fluid levels dropping below a second preselected level in the housing.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 1995Date of Patent: June 30, 1998Assignee: Tri-Clover, Inc.Inventors: Michael Carney, Richard D. Kramer
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Patent number: 5731758Abstract: A toilet (6) has a solenoidal valve (1) in working relationship to a water-level probe (23), an overflow probe (25) and a floor-water probe (21) to prevent leaks reliably. A signal alarm (31) also is provided to warn of any problems and where they are in order to be able to repair them without the services of a professional plumber in many instances.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 1997Date of Patent: March 24, 1998Inventors: Walter E. Suttlemyre, Vincent Albanese
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Patent number: 5706857Abstract: A vent valve assembly is provided which will allow a probe for a gauging system to be added to underground fuel tanks which include a vapor recovery system. The support assembly replaces existing float valve assemblies and combines a valving structure with a support for a fuel system gauge probe. A gauging system may be easily and inexpensively added to existing underground fuel tanks with minimum disruption to the operation of the gas station.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 1995Date of Patent: January 13, 1998Assignee: Arizona Instruments Inc.Inventors: Edward J. Dowling, Jr., Donald C. Esperson, Robert F. Staab
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Patent number: 5701932Abstract: The valve includes a valve body (10) with a closure member (12) and a fitting region (16) enabling the valve to be fixed, in a removable manner, to the neck of a gas container. The level gauge (20 ) is a capacitive gauge consisting of an elongate rod (24) and a cylindrical tube (22) coaxially surrounding the said rod (24), the tube (22) and the rod (24) both being supported by the valve body (10) and extending over the entire height of the container. The level measurement is based on the capacitance between the rod (24) and the tube (22) and is indicated by a display device.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1995Date of Patent: December 30, 1997Assignee: Luxembourg Patent Company, S.A.Inventors: Georges Bourscheid, Jim Muttesch
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Patent number: 5699049Abstract: Abnormal flow of liquid in a non-pressurized conduit such as a drain line of a building is detected by a liquid level sensor unit connected at a conduit location not anticipated to fill with liquid during normal flow, so that liquid backing up at such location will enter a sensor chamber of the unit to cause a liquid level sensor to signal an indicator. A monitoring system uses at least one such sensor to signal at least one local or remote indicator that indicates which sensor has detected abnormal flow. The system can monitor for short times particular drain lines suspected of experiencing abnormal flow, or can serve on a long-term basis to provide an early warning of clogging and blockage in lines selected for monitoring.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1995Date of Patent: December 16, 1997Inventor: Dante Difiore
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Patent number: 5687761Abstract: A sewer lateral cleanout apparatus provides visual indication of an impending sewer backup, for installation on the cleanout riser of a sewer lateral, and includes a housing portion adapted for attachment to the cleanout riser; and a vertically movable piston portion slidably engaged within the housing. The piston includes a float member, a wall member, and a cap member, such that when sewage is not backed up into the cleanout riser, the wall is contained within the housing, and when sewage backs up into the cleanout riser, the float urges the piston to move vertically within the housing to reveal the wall, thereby alerting the user of a backup.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1996Date of Patent: November 18, 1997Inventor: Peter Langes
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Patent number: 5565851Abstract: A fluid level sensing system, particularly for sensing the water level in a steam generating boiler, comprises a vessel connected to the boiler so as to contain water and steam at substantially the same level as in the boiler, a number of vertically spaced electrodes projecting into the vessel, and circuitry for measuring the electrical impedance sensed by each electrode. The circuitry, which can be multiplexed to each electrode in turn, includes a first comparator for producing an output when the sensed impedance lies between the normal maximum impedance of the water and the normal minimum impedance of the steam above the water, this output being demultiplexed to drive a vertical display to show the level of the steam/water interface. The circuitry additionally includes a second comparator for producing a further output when the sensed impedance lies below the normal minimum impedance of the water, which further output is indicative of a variety of different fault conditions and drives a fault indicator.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 1996Date of Patent: October 15, 1996Assignee: Solartron Group LimitedInventors: Paul N. Richards, Stephen P. Howse
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Patent number: 5553780Abstract: A spraying system for providing a pressurized liquid spray for cleaning purposes is mounted on a vehicle for use outdoors. The system includes a liquid storage tank, a spray device for directing a spray of liquid therefrom, and a liquid supply system for pumping liquid from the liquid storage tank and for providing such liquid under pressure to the spray device. A standpipe is located within the liquid storage tank, connected to the tank liquid outlet, having a liquid inlet spaced above the level of the tank liquid outlet by a short distance. As the liquid is drawn from the tank and eventually reaches the level of the standpipe liquid inlet, air will be entrained with the liquid as the liquid then continues to enter the standpipe, causing the spray to sputter or spit as it exits the spray device. This alerts the operator to a low level of liquid in the tank and comprises a warning that use of the spraying system should be discontinued until the liquid storage tank is refilled with liquid.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 1995Date of Patent: September 10, 1996Assignee: The Toro CompanyInventor: Harlan T. Gjerde
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Patent number: 5542394Abstract: A value for a quantity of fuel remaining in a fuel tank is stored when a key switch is switched off. Refueling while an engine is stopped is detected when a difference between a remaining fuel quantity value for when the key switch is switched on and the stored remaining fuel quantity value for when switched off is equal to or greater than a predetermined proportion of the stored remaining fuel quantity value for when switched off. When refueling has been carried out, the fuel property is newly detected based on engine operating conditions, while when refueling has not been carried out, the fuel property is considered to be unchanged, and a fuel supply quantity is controlled in accordance with a fuel property for the previous time.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1995Date of Patent: August 6, 1996Assignee: Unisia Jecs CorporationInventor: Naoki Tomisawa
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Patent number: 5538030Abstract: A coupling for removably connecting a conduit for a cleaning liquid to a conduit in an automatic device for distributing a liquid or semi-liquid food product includes a first male connection piece having a body provided with a passage to which the conduit of the automatic device connects and a female connection piece removably connectable about the body of the male connection piece. The female connection piece is open at one end and connected at its open end in a leak-proof way to the body of the male connection piece but surrounds in a spaced manner with its closed end an extremity of the body of the male connection piece. The female connection piece is provided, in a wall thereof located laterally with respect to the passage, with an opening for connecting the cleaning conduit.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1994Date of Patent: July 23, 1996Inventor: Guido Ooms
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Patent number: 5506564Abstract: A marine craft fuel alert system is operative during a given time period, to compare actual fuel capacity measurements with selected fuel tank capacity reference values, to permit timely intervention. Used with a relatively high reference value and operative during fuel loading, the system and methodology gives a warning to a fuel input agent (i.e., person controlling fuel loading) in sufficient time for the agent to terminate fuel loading and prevent environmental pollution by fuel overfill spillage. Conversely, the system and methodology, with appropriate modifications, can be used to sense and warn of predetermined low fuel level conditions. The system can be integrally incorporated into an original equipment marine craft system or retrofit thereto. Electrical interconnections may extend to marine craft ignition system interdiction during operation of the fuel loading monitoring and warning.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 1994Date of Patent: April 9, 1996Inventor: Thomas S. Hargest
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Patent number: 5501243Abstract: An apparatus and a member therefor are disclosed for a sump assembly installed in a liquid storage tank having an exterior portion and a tank wall with an aperture extending through a portion of the tank wall, a generally cylindrical sump collar attached within said aperture having an open outer extremity and having an inner extremity closed by a base member attached to that inner extremity, a generally cylindrical sump housing fitting into the sump collar, and means for sealingly attaching the sump housing to the sump collar, so that the sump housing and the sump collar form a liquid containment chamber.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1994Date of Patent: March 26, 1996Inventor: David T. Palazzo
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Patent number: 5501255Abstract: A fuel recovery system warns a user of an impending overflow of fuel and also provides an overflow chamber into which relatively small amount of overfilled fuel are captured, thus preventing fuel spillage into the surrounding environment. The system is adapted for use with a fuel tank attached to a fuel fill line and an overflow line, and comprises a float assembly adapted to be coupled inline to the overflow line; an overflow chamber coupled via a check valve to the main fuel tank; and an optical/electronic warning system for warning the user when fuel in the float assembly rises to a predetermined level.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1994Date of Patent: March 26, 1996Assignee: Matthew P. TortuInventors: Matthew P. Tortu, Jay Ross
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Patent number: 5485866Abstract: A valve to monitor the level of fluid in an above ground storage tank while the tank is being filled, cutoff the flow of fluid when the tank is in a full condition, and as long as the filling pressure is on the valve the valve will remain cutoff even if the fluid level in the tank has lowered. A relief valve to drain the fluid remaining in the filling hose after the filling pressure is off. A sight level indicator to visually show that the tank is in a filled condition. A monitoring node to be used with or without the mechanical cutoff valve in a totally controlled application where the filling person is not responsible for shutting off the filling tank truck, with two switches, one to alert that the tank is near a filled condition and the second to alert that the tank is in a filled condition.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1995Date of Patent: January 23, 1996Inventor: James H. Bowen
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Patent number: 5469879Abstract: A condensate removal device for capturing, measuring and removing condensate from a fluid system having air or gas under pressure. The device purges only condensate on demand without loss of relative pressure inherent within the system. A single sensing probe extends into a condensate collection reservoir sensing the low and high level of condensate activating a diaphragm type discharge value venting condensate from the reservoir. Once condensate levels fall below a pre-determined level within the reservoir the value is closed awaiting accumulation of additional condensate before cycling again.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 1994Date of Patent: November 28, 1995Inventor: John Rasmussen
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Patent number: 5427137Abstract: A valve to monitor the level of fluid in an above ground storage tank while the tank is being filled, cutoff the flow of fluid when the tank is in a full condition, and as long as the filling pressure is on the valve the valve will remain cutoff even if the fluid level in the tank has lowered. A relief valve to drain the fluid remaining in the filling hose after the filling pressure is off. A sight level indicator to visually show that the tank is in a filled condition. A monitoring node to be used with or without the mechanical cutoff valve in a totally controlled application where the filling person is not responsible for shutting off the filling tank truck, with two switches, one to alert that the tank is near a filled condition and the second to alert that the tank is in a filled condition.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1993Date of Patent: June 27, 1995Inventor: James H. Bowen
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Patent number: 5360033Abstract: A hazardous fluid removal and storage apparatus for the fail-safe removal and storage of hazardous liquids. An electrically monitored and electro-pneumatically controlled system provides safe pumping and storage of hazardous liquids with automatic pump shut-down and warning signals for leak detection and full storage tank conditions.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1993Date of Patent: November 1, 1994Assignee: Ecologic Waste Systems CorporationInventors: Tom Williams, Larry Goertzen
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Patent number: 5331994Abstract: An additive dispensing system for diesel fueled applications includes a diesel fuel system having either single or multiple tanks, a fuel level sensor, an additive tank, a fixed rate additive dispensing pump and a microprocessor operating on a logic basis whereby a minimum of three fuel level readings, taken at fixed periods and compared to one another and/or to predetermined standards, provide the input necessary to control the operation of the additive dispensing pump so as to maintain a predetermined concentration of additive in the diesel fuel system regardless of random refueling sequences.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1993Date of Patent: July 26, 1994Inventors: John F. Bryan, III, Brian W. Petersen, Harley B. Martin
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Patent number: 5293896Abstract: A semiconductor sensor detects the existence of liquified gases by immersion or approaching the liquid. A high signal amplitude of the sensor permits a simple signal evaluation of high reliability. The sensor permits the realization of filling level measuring devices or level control devices for liquified gases.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 1990Date of Patent: March 15, 1994Assignee: Balzers AktiengesellschaftInventors: Luder Gleichmann, Gerd Lobel
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Patent number: 5289846Abstract: An automatic water replenishing system is designed for use with multiple dye vats used for tinting eyeglass lenses, but the broad principles of the invention could apply to other systems used for replenishing individual ones of plural vats or reservoirs with water or some other liquid. A rotary water distributor rotates about an arc when it is signaled by water level sensors that the water in a particular vat is low. As the rotary distributor reaches the low reservoir, the LED carried by the distributor actuates a photo transistor adjacent the particular reservoir that needs replenishing, causing the motor to stop and the water supply solenoid valve to be actuated, filling the reservoir until a brief period of time after the level sensor indicates a full condition to the central control system.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 1991Date of Patent: March 1, 1994Inventors: Tariq J. Elias, Hani E. Chika
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Patent number: 5275216Abstract: An add-on liquid overflow shut-off valve for a tank. The device is used to ensure that a holding tank is not overfilled and provides a fail safe way to prevent spillage when pumping into a holding tank. The device provides a warning indicator when the holding tank is near full. The device also has a fail safe switch which will turn off air to a pump when the holding tank is full and also blow a whistle to indicate the tank is full. The device uses a diaphragm which operates on a pressure differential. When the pressure is increase past a spring set point, the diaphragm raises a plate that activates a switching valve which shuts off air supply to an air pump and blows a whistle.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1992Date of Patent: January 4, 1994Inventor: Christopher R. Haedt
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Patent number: 5201298Abstract: A combination draw valve and sending unit assembly includes a draw valve assembly and sending unit assembly. The draw valve assembly is constructed for drawing fuel from a fuel tank of a truck or other motor vehicle. The draw valve assembly includes an adapter valve and a float valve constructed for automatically closing so that no fuel can be withdrawn from the fuel tank when the fuel level in the tank is low. The sending unit assembly inlcudes a potentiometer and a magnetic contact wherein the magnetic contact is coupled to the float valve for providing an electrical signal indicative of the amount of fuel remaining in the fuel tank.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1991Date of Patent: April 13, 1993Assignee: Paccar Inc.Inventor: Kenneth M. Shearn
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Patent number: 5181022Abstract: An arrangement for determining when a fuel tank installed in a boat is full, including (i) a proximity detector for detecting when fuel starts to flow up the vent stack, and (ii) a small reservoir in the vent stack above the proximity detector to prevent fuel from escaping from the stack before the filling of the tank can be halted in response to a warning signal generated in response to the output of the proximity detector.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 1991Date of Patent: January 19, 1993Inventor: Alfred Schupp
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Patent number: 5178009Abstract: A temperature controller with an integral liquid level control is contained within one unit. The unit consists of an electrical and heat conductive housing, which serves as a first electrode of the liquid level sensor. A metal clamp and a means to attach the housing to the liquid vessel is insulated from the housing and serves as a second electrode. The electrodes are connected in an electrical circuit such that when the electrodes are immersed within a conductive liquid, the resistance between the electrodes is reduced and a current is allowed to flow. A temperature sensor, such as a thermistor, RTD, or thermocouple, is contained within the housing. The housing conducts heat from the housing environment for radiation within the housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 1991Date of Patent: January 12, 1993Assignee: Industrial Engineering and Equipment CompanyInventors: Anil K. Arekapudi, Donald G. Bryan, Jr., Thomas Holden
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Patent number: 5138977Abstract: A strip bucket utilizable in a cow milking operation is provided with a lid having a ball check valve to prevent bad milk from entering a bulk storage container. Additionally, the ball check valve may be provided with integrally attached milk collection tubes which extend orthogonally outwardly therefrom. Additionally, the ball check valve may be provided with an outwardly extending paddle member which operates to raise a signal flag once a strip bucket has been filled with milk.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1991Date of Patent: August 18, 1992Inventor: Mike Martinmaas
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Patent number: 5113892Abstract: A pressure-activated diaphragm valve which when installed in the main up-stream side of a pressurized line, responds to signals from a control unit to shut off the main supply line and at the same time, opens a drain port on the down-stream side of the valve. When used as a freeze protection system, the main water line is shut off and the drain port opened before the freeze point, thereby, eliminating water damage from frozen, broken pipes. The valve also is self-cleaning and has a magnetic plug to remove and keep metallic particles out of the control chamber and the control unit has automatic and manual modes.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1991Date of Patent: May 19, 1992Inventors: Harold L. Hull, Rudolph R. Romo, Donald J. Luschar
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Patent number: 5113901Abstract: An electronically operated sewer backup alarm apparatus can be placed in a new or existing sewer line connecting a residence, or other facility generating sewage, to a sewage collection system. The alarm apparatus includes a connection element for connection into the sewer line, an electrical apparatus controlling the closing of the back-water valve, a flapper attached in a water tight relationship to the seat of the back-water valve. The flapper also has an "O" ring for sealing the flapper to the seat of the back-water valve, whereby backed up sewage in the sewer pipe is prevented from entering into the residence or other type facility. The backup alarm system also includes first and second electrical conductors extending into the interior of the connection element for electrically contacting backed-up sewage to produce reduced electrical resistance between the first and second conductors. An alarm circuit generates an alarm signal in response to a reduced resistance to actuate an audible buzzer.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1991Date of Patent: May 19, 1992Inventor: Jack W. Young
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Patent number: 5071093Abstract: A liquid propellant supply device for satellites comprises an inlet pipe connected to a source of pressurizing gas, an outlet pipe connected to a propellant distribution manifold and a main storage tank connected at an inlet orifice to the inlet pipe and at an outlet orifice to the outlet pipe. The main storage tank contains a capillary action propellant retention device between the interior of the main storage tank and the outlet pipe. The device further comprises, on the outlet pipe, starting from the main storage tank, a gas test device adapted to detect the presence in the outlet pipe of a significant quantity of gas followed by an auxiliary storage tank substantially smaller than the main storage tank and including a second capillary action propellant retention device separating the interior of the auxiliary storage tank and the distribution manifold.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1990Date of Patent: December 10, 1991Assignee: Society Nationale Industrielle et AerospatialeInventor: Michel Perdu
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Patent number: 5069247Abstract: A condensate drain has a short housing and contains a monitor device which avoids incorrect signals. A testing chamber is located in the housing, laterally adjacent to an entry channel, and therefore upstream of the drain device in the flow direction. A pipe forms the partition in the testing chamber. The condensate drain can be used in all instances where monitoring of its correct operation is required.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 1991Date of Patent: December 3, 1991Assignee: GESTRA AktiengesellschaftInventors: Werner Foller, Gunter Herbold
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Patent number: 5042840Abstract: The present invention includes a system for storing and transporting a liquid in which a series of tank cars each have a hollow tank body with an inlet and an outlet supported on a frame with a plurality of wheels on the frame. In one embodiment, these cars are connected together with a sealable male fitting and female fitting which interengage to allow fluid flow between the cars. Using this valve arrangement, a series of cars hooked together may be filled from a single fill point or station. A method of storing and transporting a liquid involving these storage cars is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 1990Date of Patent: August 27, 1991Assignee: Diversey CorporationInventors: Theodore R. Rieple, David J. Rumics, Jack D. Moore, Waldon A. Strangberg
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Patent number: 5040564Abstract: A system for exchanging containers containing a medium while the system is in operation without admitting air includes at least two intermediate containers, each of which is connected to a respective transport container. Each of the at least two intermediate containers is also connected to their respective transport container by way of a return tube and a pump. Each of the at least two intermediate containers is also connected to a common outlet tube by way of an interconnecting outlet tube. The common outlet tube is connected to a spraying station and each of the at least two intermediate containers includes a device for determining the level of medium in the respective intermediate container.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 1990Date of Patent: August 20, 1991Assignee: Dinol AktiebolagInventor: Anders Auvoja
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Patent number: 5028910Abstract: A drain overflow alarm for a washing machine drain, which alarm is mounted in a vertical drain line offset provided with a check valve and extending from the vertical fixed drain line or standpipe of a structure. In a preferred embodiment the alarm includes a float switch located in the top end of the drain line offset and a transformer, relay, alarm and optical reset button, all provided in a control housing. The float switch is electrically connected to the transformer, relay and alarm, such that obstruction of the fixed drain line causes water to rise in the fixed drain line and through the check valve into the drain line offset. The rising water raises the float element of the float switch and closes the switch to activate the transformer relay and alarm, as well as terminate operation of the washing machine.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1989Date of Patent: July 2, 1991Inventors: Huey W. Meacham, Bradley J. Meacham, Dennis E. Meacham
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Patent number: 5000844Abstract: A device for injecting additive products into a liquid includes a conduit in which flows a liquid, a nozzle which penetrates into the conduit for injecting additive products, and a chamber in fluid communication with the conduit and situated above the latter. The nozzle is situated within the chamber, and means are provided for introducing and maintaining a gaseous atmosphere in the chamber whereby the nozzle is entirely contained in the gaseous atmosphere.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1989Date of Patent: March 19, 1991Inventor: Philippe Cloup
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Patent number: 4999117Abstract: A monitoring method for wastewater pump station performance and output, which method is capable of detecting an operating malfunction of the wastewater pump station such as a clog or leak within the pump, piping network or valves, or an output reduction due to pump wear. A monitoring apparatus placed at the wastewater pump staion performs continual monitoring of pump output values based on rates of rise of liquid level during pump non-run periods, time periods for the pump to reduce levels and resulting volume changes and at a controlled moment compares the values with measured reference values.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 1989Date of Patent: March 12, 1991Assignee: Oy E. Sarlin ABInventors: Jukka Palmu, Eero Oinonen, Leo Numminen, Jyrki Tolvanen, Martti Varis
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Patent number: 4988978Abstract: A liquid level indicator for storage tanks including a cover member for covering an opening at the top of the storage tank, a central rod extending downwardly from the cover member into the storage tank, and a float movably disposed on the central rod. A vertically movable first rod assembly is connected to an upper portion of the central rod, and a vertically movable second rod assembly is connected to a lower portion of the central rod, with the float being disposed therebetween so that the float contacts and moves the first rod assembly when the storage tank is substantially filled, and the float contacts and moves the second rod assembly when the storage tank is near empty. Switches are associated with each of the first and second rod assemblies to activate signal members when either of the first and second rod assemblies are vertically moved to indicate when the storage tank is substantially filled or when the storage tank is near empty.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1990Date of Patent: January 29, 1991Inventor: Wilson F. Soto
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Patent number: 4972875Abstract: A high pressure fuel hose for disposition between a tubular stem on a fluid connector on a canister in a fuel tank and tubular stem on a fluid connector on a cover for the fuel tank spaced from the canister. Each of the tubular stems has a fir-tree barb thereon and the high pressure hose includes a convoluted flexible body and a pair of relatively stiff cylindrical ends each of which has a pair of annular inside beads and three annular outside beads between the convoluted body and the inside beads. When the cylindrical ends are press fitted over the fir-tree barbs with force applied at the outside beads, the inside bead seat behind annular shoulders on the barbs for enhanced retention.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 1989Date of Patent: November 27, 1990Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Robert C. Beer, Timothy F. Coha, Samuel G. Griffith
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Patent number: 4962370Abstract: A sewer alarm is provided for warning of overflow conditions in a house trap installed in a sewer line, the sensing mechanism consisting of a magnetic float switch with no moving parts other than the float itself and with the magnetic activating switch sealed from the hostile environment found in a house trap. The alarm cap member housing the magnetic float switch has physical dimensions similar to a typical cap installed in an unalarmed house trap and substantially has only wires protruding from its exterior face.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 1989Date of Patent: October 9, 1990Inventor: John Borriello
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Patent number: 4947888Abstract: A trough surrounding the base of a machine for trapping the spilled chemical and draining it into a pit in which a pump is located that is automatically engaged to pump the spilled chemical into a closed holding tank. A vapor detecting device will, upon the detection of toxic vapors, automatically turn on a ventilation system that will remove vapors from the area of the trough and from an optional isolation tent surrounding the machine and force the vapors through a filter having a bed of charcoal for absorbing the toxic vapors from the air. The filtered air is then vented to the atmosphere. A splash curtain is also used to direct the spilled chemicals into the trough. A substantial portion of the apparatus may be molded as a single unit or as separate sections that may be readily assembled and fixed into a unit at the installation site.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1989Date of Patent: August 14, 1990Inventor: Thomas Tanner
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Patent number: 4921129Abstract: A disposable liquid dispensing module in the form of a hollow plastic container for holding liquid, such as a cleaning solution or soap, has at least one liquid level sensing probe permanently mounted in it. The module is made to be inserted into a lavage machine or similar apparatus and includes a connector to which a connection plug having a liquid withdrawal pipe and connectors to the liquid level sensing probe is attached. The pipe is connected to an elongated flexible tube and the connectors for the liquid level sensing probe are connected to flexible wires, so that the plug including these components may be attached to the container outside the lavage machine in which it is used. When the level of liquid falls below a predetermined threshold, a signal is provided to the apparatus indicating that replacement of the container is to be made. The entire module then is withdrawn and the plug to the apparatus is disconnected.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1988Date of Patent: May 1, 1990Assignee: Pacific BioSystems, Inc.Inventors: K. Tom Jones, Richard J. Caldwell
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Patent number: 4922226Abstract: A water level and temperature detector alarm device and more particularly to an alarm device which includes a buoy type detector to alternately detect water level or water temperature so as to provide an audio alarm signal through a buzzer when water level or water temperature reaches the predetermined range. The detector is connected to the expansible end of a conduit and includes a sleeve having set therein two reed switches and a thermswitch and having mounted thereon a body which includes therein a circular magnet. An alarm device is connected to the other end of the conduit which is having a movable positioning rack mounted thereon for positioning of the whole assembly. Following the rising of water level, the magnet of the buoy alternatively drives the reed switched to turn on the alarm device to buzz or, when water temperature reaches the predetermined range, the thermoswitch will be turned on to drive the alarm device to buzz.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1989Date of Patent: May 1, 1990Inventors: Sheng-Shun Hsieh, Ting-Chih Liu
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Patent number: 4901776Abstract: A funnel has a float member which rises when a container is filled to warn the user to halt the pouring of a liquid. The funnel body has a conical funnel portion with three colored circles, of different colors, at separated levels on the cone. The float member, near its top, has color marks which match the color circles on the funnel cone. When the funnel nozzle (neck) is inserted into the container orifice, one of its colored circles will meet the lip of the container. The user fills the container until the same color mark on the float member reaches the top of a sleeve which guides the float member.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 1988Date of Patent: February 20, 1990Inventor: Ron Attinello
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Patent number: 4898140Abstract: A device for eliminating the water present in the diesel oil supplying a diesel engine of a vehicle, comprises a water separating member, means for detecting the passage of a warning threshold by the volume of water separated and an electric pump adapted to drain this water through a non-return valve. Said pump is only energized from the battery of the vehicle during periods of preheating the engine and when the abovesaid warning threshold is exceeded.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 1989Date of Patent: February 6, 1990Assignee: LabinalInventor: Jean Pages
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Patent number: 4881088Abstract: In a computer controlled automatic plotting device, an ink level detector is provided in a plotter pen cartridge. An ink-following object is provided in the plotter pin cartridge and is supported by the writing fluid. The ink-following object carries a magnet. As the ink-following object traverses down the inside of the plotter pen cartridge, the position of the magnet triggers a sensor at a predetermined level. The sensor then effects a visual or audible signal to alert an operator that the cartridge is running out of writing fluid. Alternatively, the sensor activates a control system to shut down the plotting device to permit replacement of the plotter pen cartridge with one having a new ink supply.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 1988Date of Patent: November 14, 1989Inventors: Paul C. Fisher, Jr., Wiebe H. Van Der Meer, Paul C. Fisher