Abstract: A valving device for inclusion in a pair of lines delivering hot and cold water to a point of mixed flow use having respective flow valving sections including respective aligned valving members joined as a shuttle unit, secured to and extending through flexible diaphragm means isolating the sections, and longitudinally shiftable to decrease flow area in one section while increasing flow area in the other; each section having a flow constriction as a fixed resistance between the diaphragm means and a respective valved flow space, whereby upon change of the relation of supply pressure and consequent tendency to change flow ratio from a pre-existing relation, the shuttle shifts to null the difference of forces acting thereon in the two sections and thereby re-establish the flow ratio; a hot inlet temperature responsive override being includable.

Abstract: A combustion apparatus has an exhaust system, a fuel-supply system, and an air-supply system. The ratio of fuel-to-air supplied to the apparatus is adjustable in either direction in response to control information. A temperature signal is developed which has a value proportional to the combustion-produced temperature. A first sample of that temperature signal selected during a first time interval is compared with a second sample of the temperature signal developed during a later time interval. The comparison serves to produce the control information that causes adjustment of the fuel-to-air ratio in the direction seeking a maximum of combustion-produced temperature. Digital logic circuitry is specifically utilized for the purpose of producing the desired control information.

Abstract: A pressure compensating device is disclosed for mixing faucets. The device includes a diaphragm against which the medium to be compensated flows in a housing. The diaphragm is fitted with a throttle plate of flexible material on each side. Each throttle plate includes apertures which widen towards the diaphragm to aid in pressure compensation. Each throttle plate is securely fastened at its edges to the diaphragm and the casing and is secured at its center by a pin and spacers to the center of the diaphragm.

Abstract: The method comprises employing electrical contact resistance to sense whether or not there is incipient precipitation of adherent scale, paraffin wax, etc., on surfaces immersed in various liquids. The method is surprisingly sensitive, and otherwise effective, even when the liquids are electrically conductive. The method further comprises performing certain steps relative to the submerged surfaces, and/or relative to the liquids, in order to control precipitate formation. The selection of polarity, materials, etc., is caused to be such that sensitivity is maximized, and electrolytic dissolution of the submerged elements is minimized.

Abstract: Proportioning apparatus comprising a pair of coaxial tubular members with passages having first and second outwardly extending walls of the same cross-sectional configuration, first and second valve bodies for coaction with said walls for progressively opening and closing said passages, said first valve body slidably mounted on one of said tubular members, said second valve body connected to said first valve body for movement therewith and biasing means urging said valve bodies to their closed positions.