Abstract: A system and method of monitoring a pressurized container having an auxiliary device are provided. The system includes a sensor operable to provide a signal representative of at least one operating condition of the pressurized container. The system also includes a control operable to receive the signal from the sensor and generate a warning when the sensed operating condition will impact the operation of the auxiliary device.

Abstract: A blood donation device with a receptacle for a blood donation container and a control section at which utensils required by the operator can be accommodated and/or by means of which parameters of the donation process can be varied, detected and/or retrieved. Bending of the operator to the blood donation device is avoided by the fact that the control section is arranged in an elevated position with respect to the receptacle of the blood donation device.

Abstract: A device for monitoring changes in airflow rates through detector dust filters in addition to assessing air for alarm indicators, including smoke, heat, gas, and relative humidity, is provided. A method monitors airflow through the detection device and provides a maintenance indication when the airflow has been reduced due to contamination of the dust filters.

Abstract: Notification of an air intake restriction is provided for an internal combustion engine (101). Readings from one or more air pressure sensors (117, 119) utilized with an internal combustion engine (101) are processed to determine whether an air intake restriction is present. A notification is provided, for example, by displaying (209) a message on a display (123) in a driver's station of a vehicle housing the engine. Various data, including detection of an air intake restriction, may be transmitted (215) for use by personnel, for example, to provide maintenance.

Abstract: Respiration monitoring equipment comprises, in one embodiment, a medical face mask (2), adapted to be located adjacent, or to cover a patient's nostrils and/or mouth; a transducer (7) adapted to be impinged by the patient's inspired and/or expired breaths, being sensitive to the presence and/or absence of a respiratory air flow, and being capable of emitting electrical signals in accordance with the presence and/or absence of a respiratory air flow; and a monitoring unit (9) electrically connected to the transducer (7) and responsive to the presence and/or absence of signals emitted by the transducer (7), and including means of triggering at least an alarm signal in the circumstances of non-detection of respiratory air flow within one or more predetermined parameters. Another embodiment provides for “cordless” monitoring, with a transmitter unit (11) at the face mask (2) and a receiver (12) at the monitoring unit (9).

Abstract: A portable liquid level detector. The detector comprises a portable casing, a power supply unit disposed in the portable casing, a sensing device coupled to the power supply unit to sense a capacitance within a container and to output a enable signal when a difference in the capacitance is detected, a light emission device coupled to the sensing unit that illuminates after receiving the enable signal, and an alarm device coupled to the sensing unit that sounds after receiving the enable signal.

Abstract: A sensor system for monitoring cryogenic gas flow through a tube/pipe has at least one sensor coupled to the tube/piping. An alarm circuit is coupled to the sensor for receiving measurement signals from the at least one sensor and for sending an alarm signal when the measurement signal deviates from a predetermined level.

Abstract: A water level warning device for use in conjunction with a bathtub or a sink, for audibly warning a user when the water flowing into the bathtub or sink has reached a predetermined level. The warning device comprises a cylindrical tube containing a floating ball and having a plurality of circular openings extending fully therethrough for allowing water from the bathtub or sink to enter the tube. The top of the tube has a pressure-activated sensor and a speaker in communication with the sensor. The height of the tube may be telescopically adjusted by the user, thereby allowing the user to set the level of water required to activate the sensor. In use, the floating ball floats upon the upper surface of the water entering the tube, and activates the sensor when the level of water reaches the top of the tube. Upon selective activation of the sensor, the speaker emits an audible alarm.

Abstract: A system for monitoring leaks in dwellings that includes a sensor which detects water flow. The system determines that a leak is occurring when water has flowed through a water line for longer than a preselected period of time. A central monitoring system receives a signal from a local system and the central monitoring system has an associated record for each dwelling to thereby allow flexible response to correct the leak.

Abstract: A liquid flow mitigation system comprising a systems interface, a liquid arresting mechanism operable to impede flow of a liquid, a control device operable to produce an input to the systems interface representing a request to impede flow of the liquid, and a liquid utilizing device operable to produce an input to the systems interface representing a request for liquid flow. The systems interface directs the liquid arresting mechanism to impede liquid flow when the systems interface is in receipt of an input from the control device. The systems interface directs the liquid arresting mechanism to permit liquid flow when the systems interface is in receipt of an input from the water utilizing device.

Abstract: A monitoring system that permits an operator to observe on a visual display operating data for a plurality of dispensing devices. These data displays are visual representations based on signals received from a monitor control. The operator is able to arrange and group the displays of a plurality of dispensing devices as required. In one embodiment, the visual representations include graphical representations of a characteristic of the dispensed fluid on a time line, such as a pressure reading for example. Such graphical representations may include alarm limits or bands. Each visual representation may include fault indications that are time and date stamped. The visual representations may also be color coded to indicate normal and fault conditions. All of this monitoring may conveniently be performed at a location that is remote from the dispensing devices. The collected information may be logged for later analysis such as exporting the data to another program such as a spreadsheet database.

Abstract: A system for monitoring at least one parameter of interest relating to a flow conduit having a through passage and a fluid flow therein comprises at least one measurement station coupled to the flow conduit for taking a measurement relating to the parameter of interest. An interrogation device is adapted to move proximate the measurement station and to transmit a first signal to the measurement station, and to receive a second signal from the measurement station relating to the parameter of interest. The measurement station receives power from the first signal.

Abstract: A safety shutdown system is provided for use with a fluid delivery system, such as used on a delivery vehicle. The safety shutdown system includes a plurality of sensors for sensing characteristics of a fluid delivery system. A controller includes a query timer function initiated in response to the sensed characteristic of the fluid delivery system and/or in response to activation of selected vehicle functions. The operator may repeatedly reset the query timer before it times out by pressing a button on a wireless transmitter. If the timer times out, however, the controller automatically shuts off a vehicle engine and/or closes a valve to prevent further fluid delivery.

Abstract: A water pit transponder assembly includes a housing with multiple sections including top, main and bottom sections snap latched together connected to a water meter. A circuit board transponder in the housing includes a controller, a transmitter, a receiver and tamper detection software connected to antennas. An encoder is connected to the water meter, and batteries provide power to operate the assembly. The transponder sends and receives at different frequencies through different antennas and is protected from environmental corrosion by being encapsulated in a get inside the housing.

Abstract: A flow verification sensor apparatus (30) is used with a constant volume pump (11) that pumps a liquid product (13) from a container (12). A plummet (32) is positioned in a flow tube (31). A sensor (33) is positioned upward from the lower end of the flow tube (31). A timer (34) measures the length of time for the plummet (32) to move from a first position to a second position after activation of the pump (11). Suitable alarms (50) are operated to indicate low flow or out of product conditions.

Abstract: A grease supply confirming device confirming the supply of a grease into a bearing, according to the present invention includes a detecting member an elastic supporting member and a movable body. The movable body such as a metal spherical body is movably provided in a piping through which a grease to be supplied flows. The elastic supporting member is provided in the piping for supporting the movable body. The detecting member such as an eddy current type displacement sensor detects to see whether or not the grease is supplied in accordance with the displacement of the movable body. The grease supply confirming device further includes an abnormality judging circuit connected to the detecting member for judging the abnormality in grease supply, and an outputting portion for outputting an alarm according to the instruction from the abnormality judging circuit.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring fluid flow in a pipe or at an exit of the pipe and detecting a fault. The system includes an acoustic generator which is activated by the fluid flowing in the pipe or at the exit of the pipe. The acoustic generator sends an acoustic signal, which may have a distinctive signature, through the fluid flowing in the pipe. The acoustic signal is received by a remote upstream acoustic receiver and is translated into an electric signal supplied to a signal processor.

Abstract: A method of selecting a ventilation control strategy from among a plurality of ventilation control strategies. The method comprises the steps of: determining if a CO2 signal is present and valid; selecting a CO2 based ventilation control strategy if the CO2 signal is present and valid; selecting a second ventilation control strategy if the CO2 signal is not present or is invalid; and operating using the selected strategy. The selection step occurs in a zone controller.

Abstract: A flow sensor having an inlet and an outlet comprising: a plate moving in response to fluid flow therethrough, being displaced further as flow increases; a sensor for determining moving plate's position and creating an electronic signal related thereto; a biasing means for biasing the plate towards the sensor's inlet end. The sensor may include a sealing means for preventing flow therethrough until a specified differential pressure is reached allowing the device to be used as a bypass mechanism. The sealing means may also constitute a check valve means to prevent flow in an undesired direction.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for testing the operation of an alarm for a ventilated enclosure, such as a fume hood or bio-safety cabinet. Flow of gas being exhausted from the enclosure may be adjusted to a known value below or above a threshold value at which the alarm provides an indication that flow is unacceptably low or high. Adjustment of flow to the known value may be performed without requiring a manual measurement of flow, e.g., by performing a traverse in a duct leading from the enclosure.

Abstract: A method of monitoring the service life of a filter (1) in a filter system equipped with a fan, in particular a filter (1) in an air conditioning system of a motor vehicle, the instantaneous air speed (21) preferably being measured on each startup of the system using a sensor (2, 20) downstream from the filter (1), compared to the reference air speed (R) from the unloaded filter (1), and transmitted to a service computer and/or indicated on a display, and the need to replace the filter being signaled when this value falls below a predetermined threshold or threshold range of the instantaneous air flow rate (21).

Abstract: A system for monitoring at least one parameter of interest relating to a flow conduit having a through passage and a fluid flow therein comprises at least one measurement station coupled to the flow conduit for taking a measurement relating to the parameter of interest. An interrogation device is adapted to move proximate the measurement station and to transmit a first signal to the measurement station, and to receive a second signal from the measurement station relating to the parameter of interest. The measurement station receives power from the first signal.

Abstract: A monitor for monitoring presence or absence of a liquid product in a system for pumping the liquid product from a supply through tubing. A capacitive sensor is coupled to the outside of the tubing at a sensing location having an inlet and an outlet, the capacitive sensor being responsive to the presence or absence of the liquid product in the tubing. The tubing is selected from a material and having an inside diameter at the sensing location selected such that the tubing is substantially evacuated or substantially drains when the liquid product is substantially absent from the tubing preceding the sensing location but small enough so that the liquid product can be sensed by the capacitive sensor when the liquid product is substantially present in the supply.

Abstract: A method for monitoring the operating temperature of an item on a card shelf having a plurality of discrete electronic cards includes receiving a measured temperature for an item on a card shelf that is indicative of an operating temperature of the item. The method also includes determining whether the item is operating above a specified limit using the measured temperature and information stored in a memory that relates the measured temperature to the operating temperature of the item. Furthermore, the method includes determining whether there has been a restriction of air flow through the card shelf in response to determining whether the item is operating above a specified limit.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for detecting leaks between a door and a primary seal of a vehicle. The system includes a mist generator that generates a mist and an illuminating device for illuminating any condensed mist on at least one of the primary seal or the door. The generator includes an output nozzle that is inserted at a predetermined distance from the door and the primary seal.

Abstract: A filter condition sensing circuit includes current and voltage sensors and a data processor. The current and voltage sensors produce signals indicating magnitudes of electrical current and voltage, respectively, provided to an electric motor used to move a fluid (a gas or liquid) through a filter element. During a first time period, the data processor uses the signals to determine an acceptable range of electrical power required by the motor. During a second time period, the data processor uses the signals to determine a magnitude of electrical power required by the motor. When the magnitude of electrical power is within the acceptable range of electrical power, the data processor generates a signal indicating a normal condition of the filter element. A described filter condition indicating system includes the circuit. A method is for determining a condition of a filter element.

Abstract: An airflow blockage detection apparatus for a permanent split-capacitor single-phase cooling fan motor measures and compares electrical currents in main and auxiliary windings of the motor to detect airflow blockage. Main and auxiliary current sensors detect AC currents in the main and auxiliary windings, respectively, and a blockage detection circuit forms a difference between the detected currents. An airflow blockage alarm is activated when the current difference exceeds a specified setpoint indicative of abnormally low airflow.

Abstract: An apparatus for dosing lubricant into a compressed air flow includes a lubricant container, a pneumatically operated lubricant pump, an injection channel, a non-return valve interposed between the outlet of the pump and the injection channel, and an electronic sensor cooperating with or coupled to the non-return valve so that the sensor emits an electrical signal responsive and corresponding to the stroke travel of the non-return valve. When the pump carries out a lubricant injection cycle, the pressurized lubricant pushes open the non-return valve, flows into the injection channel and from there into a main channel through which compressed air flows. The travel of the valve is sensed by the sensor, and the sensor signal indicates whether the lubricant injection was proper or faulty, e.g. if the proper amount of lubricant was injected.

Abstract: The proper function of a smoke detector of an enclosed space, such as a toilet or freight space or crew quarters in an aircraft, is monitored by at least two air pressure sensors which are so positioned that these air pressure sensors can measure an air pressure differential in the air flow into the smoke detector. If a pressure differential is detected the differential is evaluated in a central processing unit which produces a respective signal that indicates that the air flow and thus the smoke flow into the smoke detector is obstructed, whereby the smoke detector cannot function properly. This signal is visibly or audibly indicated.

Abstract: A backfill prevention system for a gas flow conduit, comprising a gas flow monitor circuit which measures the rate and direction of gas flow through a gas flow conduit and converts the measured data into a voltage signal. A valve control circuit operably connected to a valve or valves in the gas flow conduit receives the voltage signal from the gas flow monitor circuit and closes the valve or valves in the event that the voltage signal indicates backflow of a gas through the gas flow conduit. The valve control conduit may further be provided with a first light emitting diode (LED) which is illuminated during normal flow of the gas through the conduit, and a second LED which is illuminated in the event of gas backflow through the conduit. The system is typically used in conjunction with a mass flow controller in the conduit.

Abstract: A method of signaling for a change of an air filter of a vehicle air conditioning system is disclosed. The present invention uses a sensor installed in a conventional air conditioner and the appropriate time for changing the air filter is determined by checking compressor operation when a degree of airflow is decreased during air conditioner operation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a highly universal out-of-liquid sensor that allows an out-of-liquid condition to be accurately detected for a long time, and provides a liquid supply device using the same.

Abstract: A sensor system for monitoring cryogenic gas flow through a tube/pipe has at least one sensor coupled to the tube/piping. An alarm circuit is coupled to the sensor for receiving measurement signals from the at least one sensor and for sending an alarm signal when the measurement signal deviates from a predetermined level.

Abstract: A water leak mitigation device comprising a power supply, a building systems interface, a plumbing interface, and a monitoring device is provided. The monitoring device produces a primary input to the building systems interface. Upon receipt of the primary input, the building systems interface instructs the plumbing interface to restrict water flow to the associated building. Upon receipt of a secondary input produced by a building device when the building device requires water for operation, the building systems interface instructs the plumbing interface to resume the flow of water to the building so as to permit the operation of the building device. After the building device has completed its operation, transmission of the secondary input ceases and the building systems interface instructs the plumbing interface to again restrict the flow of water to the building.

Abstract: A system for monitoring at least one parameter of interest relating to a flow conduit having a through passage and a fluid flow therein comprises at least one measurement station coupled to the flow conduit for taking a measurement relating to the parameter of interest. An interrogation device is adapted to move proximate the measurement station and to transmit a first signal to the measurement station, and to receive a second signal from the measurement station relating to the parameter of interest. The measurement station receives power from the first signal.

Abstract: An alarm system comprising a resilient foam pad contained within a cover, said cover being provided with air flow detector arranged to detect air leaving the cover in response to the application of a weight to the foam pad, and/or air entering the cover in response to the removal of at least some of said weight, and signalling means responsive to said detector. This system is particular useful for monitoring the movements of patients including babies, in and out of their beds or cots.

Abstract: Notification of an air intake restriction is provided for an internal combustion engine (101). Readings from one or more air pressure sensors (117, 119) utilized with an internal combustion engine (101) are processed to determine whether an air intake restriction is present. A notification is provided, for example, by displaying (209) a message on a display (123) in a driver's station of a vehicle housing the engine. Various data, including detection of an air intake restriction, may be transmitted (215) for use by personnel, for example, to provide maintenance.

Abstract: A software driven, solid state controlled, electro-mechanically operated system to monitor volatile liquid fuel or other hazardous liquids and provide emergency shut-off if the delivery system is ruptured. A computer receives input from transducers monitoring the flow rate of the liquid through the line and a pressure sensor insures the system is prepared to function. The monitoring apparatus presets a condition based on current environmental conditions. Measuring the flow rate provides input to software that validates all other entries. Delivery quantities allowing point of delivery control to vary the delivery quantity to individual locations. The software options are: Preset conditions; Owner/operator input via external computer for loading delivery and trip instructions; Instructional output on LCD screen to driver on customer information and scheduling; Data download to owner/operator on billing information, driver daily activities and volume of propane remaining in vehicle.

Abstract: A method for detecting malfunctions in a flowmeter includes the measuring of the receive signal VIN output by a transducer. A characteristic of the receive signal is compared to a predetermined reference characteristic VREF and the peak voltage VPK of the receive signal is stored. An alarm signal VAL is generated when a trigger characteristic VDEC of the receive signal is less than the predetermined reference characteristic. A threshold voltage VTH is defined, proportional to the peak amplitude VPK of the receive signal in such a manner that VTH=K×VPK where K is a factor depending on the transducer. The receive signal is compared with the threshold voltage and a conditioned output signal VOUT is generated in a first state when the receive signal is greater than the threshold voltage, and in a second state when the receive signal is less than the threshold voltage.

Abstract: The permeability of a DPF 21 mounted on a diesel engine 1 is evaluated by calculating the apparent passage area (A) based upon a difference in the pressure between the upstream and the downstream sides of the DPF 21 and upon other engine data, an alarm is given to a driver based on the results of evaluation, and the operation mode is changed over to regenerate the DPF 21. An abnormal increase in the passage area caused by breakage is accurately detected, and it does not happen that the PM is released into the open air for extended periods of time due to the breakage of the DPF 21. Further, without the need of dismantling the DPF 21, the DPF 21 can be reliably burned and regenerated without being undesirably overheated in every operation mode of the engine 1.

Abstract: An improvement flow sensor of the type having inlet and outlet ports, a moving plate unit for moving in response to fluid flow through the sensor, a sensor unit for sensing the movement of the moving plate and creating a signal related to its location, and biasing unit for biasing the plate towards the inlet (“base elements”). One improvement comprises the moving plate composed of a magnetizable material and the sensor unit comprised of a steel sensor disposed adjacent to a path traveled by the moving plate for sensing the location of the moving plate.

Abstract: An alarming apparatus and methods for use with an air filter are disclosed herein. A filament can be stretched across a portion or section of an air filter frame, wherein the portion or section comprises a first locus and a second locus located diagonally opposite the first locus. The filament can be attached at a first end of the filament to the air filter frame at the first locus. A micro-switch can be attached to a second end of the filament at the second locus. Additionally, an alarm can communicate through a communications device (wired and/or wireless) with the micro-switch, such that when the air filter becomes loaded with debris, the air filter deflects thereby causing a force to be exerted on the filament, which in turn triggers the micro-switch to transmit a signal to the alarm indicating that the air filter requires proper attention thereof. The filament can be stretched facing either an upstream or a downstream side of airflow thereof.

Abstract: A tubing installation checking device is provided for determining proper installation of a tubing along a tube receiving channel in a peristaltic pump of the type having a tube receiving channel and a door for holding a tubing therein. The tubing installation checking device includes a pressure sensor held in the peristaltic pump positioned along the tube receiving channel downstream from the pumping mechanism for sensing pressure in the tubing and for providing a signal representing the sensed pressure. A valve is provided held in the peristaltic pump along the tube receiving channel downstream from the pressure sensor for closing the tubing when it is installed in the tube receiving channel.

Abstract: A water damage protection system and method of preventing water damage for domestic water supply systems is provided. The system comprises a control valve, a sensing device, and a controller. The control valve is bias toward an open position to allow fluid flow therethrough. The control valve is moveable to a closed position upon actuation thereby preventing fluid flow through the conduit. The sensing device detects fluid flow through the fluid conduit. The sensing device sends a fluid flow signal upon detection of fluid flow. The controller receives the fluid flow signal from the sensing device. The controller actuates the control valve when the fluid flow signal occurs continuously for a predetermined length of time and the control valve moves to a closed position.

Abstract: A backfill prevention system for a gas flow conduit, comprising a gas flow monitor circuit which measures the rate and direction of gas flow through a gas flow conduit and converts the measured data into a voltage signal. A valve control circuit operably connected to a valve or valves in the gas flow conduit receives the voltage signal from the gas flow monitor circuit and closes the valve or valves in the event that the voltage signal indicates backflow of a gas through the gas flow conduit. The valve control conduit may further be provided with a first light emitting diode (LED) which is illuminated during normal flow of the gas through the conduit, and a second LED which is illuminated in the event of gas backflow through the conduit. The system is typically used in conjunction with a mass flow controller in the conduit.

Abstract: A multiple hazard marker system consists of at least one multiple hazard marker, a deployment vehicle, a deployment surface and a deployment device for deploying the multiple hazard marker. The multiple hazard marker comprises a ground engaging portion, an upper portion and a central portion. The multiple hazard marker will remain erect when deployed and includes a visible marker for marking a position upon a field where deployed. The multiple hazard marker further has collapsible elements that expand upon deployment, a signaling device, a receiver for activating the signaling device and transmitter associated with the signaling device.

Abstract: An automatic detecting and prewarning system for medicine instiller mainly includes a clamp for easily clamping on a flow-indicating cylinder of the medicine instiller, detecting means of an electronic sensor type mounted on the clamp, alarm means connected to the detecting means via a conductor, and a drop carrier pivotally connected to a lever to locate in the flow-indicating cylinder below a medicine dropper. After a fixed number of drops or flow per minute is set for the medicine instiller and input to the alarm means, medicine drops fallen from the medicine dropper one by one impact on and reciprocatingly sway the drop carrier to intermittently cut off the detecting means as a control signal to the alarm means. When an abnormal number of drops or flow per minute continues for a preset time, the alarm means is automatically enabled to emit warnings.

Abstract: A tubing installation checking device is provided for determining proper installation of a tubing along a tube receiving channel in a peristaltic pump of the type having a tube receiving channel and a door for holding a tubing therein. The tubing installation checking device includes a pressure sensor held in the peristaltic pump positioned along the tube receiving channel downstream from the pumping mechanism for sensing pressure in the tubing and for providing a signal representing the sensed pressure. A valve is provided held in the peristaltic pump along the tube receiving channel downstream from the pressure sensor for closing the tubing when it is installed in the tube receiving channel.

Abstract: A software driven, solid state controlled, electro-mechanically operated system to monitor volatile liquid fuel or other hazardous liquids and provide emergency shut-off if the delivery system is ruptured. A computer receives input from transducers monitoring the flow rate of the liquid through the line and a pressure sensor insures the system is prepared to function. The monitoring apparatus presets a condition based on current environmental conditions. Measuring the flow rate provides input to software that validates all other entries. Delivery quantities allowing point of delivery control to vary the delivery quantity to individual locations. The software options are: Preset conditions; Owner/operator input via external computer for loading delivery and trip instructions; Instructional output on LCD screen to driver on customer information and scheduling; Data download to owner/operator on billing information, driver daily activities and volume of propane remaining in vehicle.

Abstract: A thermal dispersion switch/transmitter for determining flow rate and liquid level in a non-contacting apparatus. A special preparation of one or more small spots in the outside surface of the wall of the conduit, standpipe or container enables one or more thermally sensitive elements to reside very close to the fluid on the opposite side of the wall. A temperature sensor is formed of a raster pattern electrical conductor deposited on a thin, electrically insulative, thermally conductive flat chip. One temperature sensor is time-shared and is periodically self heated and functions as the reference as well as the active or heated sensor of the invention. One alternative is to employ two temperature sensors, one being a reference sensor and the other being the active sensor. An alternative embodiment employs the same construction of one or more small, very thin membrane surfaces to which multiple detectors are mounted inside a probe inserted into the conduit.