Abstract: The present disclosure provides an alternative, cost-effective safety feature for on-board hydrogen storage containers incorporating a fill cycle sensor with a driver warning and shutdown system. The system monitors the number of times a hydrogen container is filled, and then takes action at a predetermined termination point. A controller monitors each time the hydrogen container is filled above 90% of the rated pressure or mass. Once the predetermined termination point of fill cycles is reached, the disclosed device/method will either disable the valve or refueling mechanism such that fuel supply to the vehicle is shutoff and the container cannot be filled again, essentially assuring the end of the life of the container.

Abstract: A fuel measurement system and method that can determine the fuel level in a vehicle fuel tank, even when the fuel is sloshing, splashing, or experiencing other dynamic conditions. Generally speaking, the system and method use different fuel measuring techniques to address different fuel tank conditions. For example, during normal conditions a traditional fuel level sensor may be used. During dynamic conditions, such as when the vehicle is experiencing significant acceleration, maneuvering, inclination, yaw rate, etc., the system may employ other measuring techniques that are better suited to address such an environment. One measuring technique that may be used is a consumption-based technique that uses fuel usage signals from one or more fuel injector sensor(s) to determine the amount of fuel consumed, and then subtracts that amount from a previous fuel level reading.

Abstract: The present invention relates to detection and alarm systems for predicting and detecting the location of spills, leaks, emissions, and/or pollution sources, i.e., unwanted fluid (liquid/gas) flow/escape, at refineries, e.g., oil and gas refineries, and plants, e.g., petrochemical, chemical, pharmaceutical, and food processing plants, and avoiding said unwanted flow/escape. According to one embodiment, said system comprises at least one detector, at least one battery powered radio frequency transmitter, preferably, according to one embodiment, a 900 megahertz spread spectrum transmitter, and a central processing location which, according to one embodiment, is preferably capable of handling up to 3000 points in a single cell site.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for alerting a colostomate or medical attendant to the presence of fecal matter. The device includes a hollow plug detachably securable to a flexible port positioned about the stoma. The port carries an alarm circuit which is triggered when fecal matter enters the plug lumen which will alert the colostomate to an impending episode. The signal may be vibratory, audible or visible and may be transmitted to a remote location. The device includes an inflatable air cuff which, when inflated, presents a physical barrier to the passage of fecal matter. Gas may pass through filters in the tube. The method involves positioning the device in the stoma, inflating the cuff and generating an alarm when matter is sensed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wireless communication device and a method for identifying a container for containing contents such as solid, liquid, or gaseous materials. The device includes a wireless communication device for transmitting information regarding the container. A valve assembly is positioned over an opening in the container for controlling the flow of contents from the container. The wireless communication device is mounted within the valve assembly, and preferably within the ball. The wireless communication device communicates information to an interrogation reader. The temperature associated with the container and/or its contents may be determined by various techniques including thermal contact between the temperature sensor and the container, measuring the discharge rate in a discharge capacitor associated with the wireless communication device, and determining the maximum energy absorption frequency of the wireless communication device.

Abstract: An aircraft fuel-gauging system has multiple gauging sensors in each tank divided into two groups. Each group of sensors connects with a respective processor. The processors are linked to provide a display in the cockpit to give an indication of fuel quantity derived from all the sensors. The two processors also provide separate, nominally-identical display indications of fuel quantity on a refuel panel on the exterior of the aircraft. The refueller can compare these two separate quantity indications with the flow meter in the fuel dispenser to confirm that the correct quantity has been dispensed.

Abstract: A high liquid alarm system for use in detecting the presence of water and oil in water present in a confined space is disclosed. In one implementation, the system includes an optical sensor capable of detecting water at a certain level, a sensing device capable of differentiating oil and water, and an alarm indicator. The sensors are in communication with an indicator which is capable of providing alert signals. The optical sensor is configured to activate a second alarm in the indicator when water is detected at about a predetermined level and the sensing device is configured to trigger a first alarm when oil in water is detected at about the predetermined level. The sensors can also be interconnected such that the sensing device is activated upon detection of water by the optical sensor, reducing the power consumption of the system.

Abstract: A sensing device arrangement for a fuel storage system is provided having at least one storage tank, a plurality of sensing devices positioned in or around the at least one storage tank, and a controller in electrical communication with the plurality of sensing devices. The controller is configured to communicate with each sensing device of the plurality of sensing devices on a single bi-directional data line. A sensing device of the plurality of sensing devices is activated by the controller. Data is acquired by the sensing device and transmitted to the controller over the data line. The controller instructs the sensing device to change to a low power state. The controller receives electrical characteristics from the plurality of sensing devices recognized on the data line and calculates a characteristic of the sensing device arrangement. The controller verifies compliance with an intrinsic safety barrier.

Abstract: A radio-type transmitting device capable of transmitting information other than information in an internal memory is provided. A RFID tag includes a encoding circuit for digitalizing receiving sensitivity of a radio wave sent from an external transmitting/receiving apparatus and then sending the digitalized receiving sensitivity to the external transmitting/receiving apparatus. Thus, the external transmitting/receiving apparatus can obtain a distance between the external transmitting/receiving apparatus and the RFID tag based on received sensitivity information.

Abstract: A device for detecting a collision of a vehicle with an obstacle includes an enclosed space positioned behind a front bumper cover. Deformation or displacement of the bumper cover due to a collision is transmitted to the enclosed space. Air pressure in the enclosed space and its temperature are measured by sensors and electrical signals representing the pressure and the temperature are fed to an electronic control unit that determines whether the enclosed space is hermetically closed or not based on the pressure and the temperature of the air in the enclosed space. If the enclosed space becomes non-hermetical due to a collision impact, the air therein leaks and the pressure therein becomes atmospheric pressure irrespective of the temperature of the air in the enclosed space. Therefore, the hermetical condition of the enclosed space is surely detected.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method are described for the provision of topical negative pressure therapy, the apparatus comprising: an aspirant pump for moving aspirated fluid through said apparatus; aspirant conduit means operably connected to a dressing covering a wound being aspirated; a waste container operably connected to the aspirant conduit and for receiving wound exudate therein; the waste container having a fluid exit port for the flow of gaseous aspirated fluid therefrom, the exit port having filter means associated therewith for preventing aspirated liquid from passing therethrough; a fluid flow path on the exit side of said waste container for the flow of aspirated gaseous fluid therethrough; the fluid flow path having therein a flow meter and a pressure monitor; and a control system for interrogating and interpreting signals from said flow meter and pressure monitor. The apparatus and method alerts a user to an approaching waste canister full condition.

Abstract: A monitoring system includes one or more monitoring devices, positioned in sewer manholes, storm drains, etc., and a remote monitoring station that communicates wirelessly therewith. The monitoring device may be an integrated unit, including sensors, a two-way telemetry unit, a power supply, a processor, and supporting hardware, all located in an enclosed, waterproof housing. The monitoring device is placed within a manhole cavity to obtain depth (e.g., water level) measurements, images, and other data, and report the measurements back to the remote monitoring station, which analyzes the data and responds to alert messages when a dangerous water level is detected. An additional sensor may monitor the manhole cover for security purposes. A distributed mesh network of wireless nodes may be used to relay communications from the monitoring devices along alternative paths, through bridge nodes that may connect to a public wireless or cellular network.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for alerting a colostomate or medical attendant to the presence of fecal matter. The device includes a hollow plug detachably securable to a flexible port positioned about the stoma. The port carries an alarm circuit which is triggered when fecal matter enters the plug lumen which will alert the colostomate to an impending episode. The signal may be vibratory, audible or visible and may be transmitted to a remote location. The device includes an inflatable air cuff which, when inflated, presents a physical barrier to the passage of fecal matter. Gas may pass through filters in the tube. The method involves positioning the device in the stoma, inflating the cuff and generating an alarm when matter is sensed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a remote monitor and control system for draining floodgate of a seawall in that movie and audio signals of a draining floodgate are transmitted to a remote place through a communication network and each device can be remotely controlled in the remote place through two-way communications. The remote monitor and control system for draining floodgate of a seawall according to the present invention includes a spot control means, a control means, and a remote control means.

Abstract: A fluid-level sensing device that uses the interaction of a first magnet attached to the distal end of an external micro switch arm and a second magnet positioned within the distal end of a pivoting float body to close a circuit within the micro switch and create a shut-off signal to stop fluid production. A single housing holds the micro switch and float body, wherein magnetic forces acting through the housing wall between them and other magnet-positioning materials that separate the two magnets cause signal production. After float body deployment, manual reset of the float body is accomplished via its lever-like distal end. The main body of the micro switch, which it is snap-fit into a fixed position within the upper housing chamber for use, is entirely encapsulated in waterproof material to protect it from corrosion. Alternative ways for quick mounting of the housing to a fluid-collecting pan are contemplated.

Abstract: A fluid leak detection system includes a reservoir, a predetermined quantity of a disinfecting liquid contained within such a reservoir, and at least a pair of elongated conduits. A mechanism for automatically opening the distal end of the at least one conduit includes a leaking fluid absorbent member disposed along the distal end of each of the conduits. The fluid-dissolvable member is dissolved by the leaking fluid and absorbed by the member to permit the conduit to be unfolded and allow the disinfecting liquid to flow outwardly from the distal end of the at least one conduit. The system further includes a support frame attached to a support surface, an interface, a communications device electrically coupled to a switch, a monitoring station, and a communications link connecting the communications device to the monitoring station.

Abstract: System and method are disclosed for monitoring slurry from a central location and replenishing the slurry as needed. The method/system allows a slurry supplier to track various properties of the slurry, as well as monitor various aspects of the slurry storage and delivery system. When the volume of slurry at the remote location falls below a predetermined point, the slurry supplier can schedule both the production of the appropriate slurry and its timely delivery to the customer. Changes in the condition of existing slurry, as well as leaks and other malfunctions in the slurry storage system, may be promptly detected and the slurry supplier immediately notified so that corrective actions may be taken. Multiple slurry storage systems at several remote locations may be monitored simultaneously from the central location. Such an arrangement offers a complete, one-stop solution to customers whose businesses depend on a reliable supply of “field ready” slurry.

Abstract: A data communications apparatus for communicating with another apparatus is disclosed.

Abstract: A fill level sensor is magnetically coupled to a hopper of an agricultural implement to provide a signal indicative of product fill level in the hopper relative to a fill line. The sensor can be positioned at various heights to provide variability in the height of the sensed fill line. The fill level sensing components are contained within a sensor housing. A magnet for magnetically mounting the sensor may be coupled to an exterior surface of the sensor housing or enclosed within the sensor housing.

Abstract: One of the embodiment of present invention includes at least one transmitter-receiver set including a transmitter and a receiver opposed with an object to be measured therebetween; and a transmission device that estimates the amount of the object based on the attenuation of electromagnetic waves that are transferred between the transmitter and the receiver of the transmitter-receiver set, and transmits information on the estimated amount of the object to be measured.

Abstract: An hydrogen tank filling apparatus includes a first hydrogen supply pipe for supplying hydrogen substantially at an atmospheric temperature from a high-pressure hydrogen storage tank to a hydrogen tank, a second hydrogen supply pipe for supplying cooled hydrogen from the high-pressure hydrogen storage tank to the hydrogen tank, and an internal tank temperature measuring unit for measuring the temperature inside the hydrogen tank. The first hydrogen supply pipe and the second hydrogen supply pipe are selectively switched by a control unit, depending on changes in the temperature inside the hydrogen tank.

Abstract: A monitoring system includes one or more monitoring devices, positioned in sewer manholes, storm drains, etc., and a remote monitoring station that communicates wirelessly therewith. The monitoring device may be an integrated unit, including sensors, a two-way telemetry unit, a power supply, a processor, and supporting hardware, all located in an enclosed, waterproof housing. The monitoring device is placed within a manhole cavity to obtain depth (e.g., water level) measurements, images, and other data, and report the measurements back to the remote monitoring station, which analyzes the data and responds to alert messages when a dangerous water level is detected. An additional sensor may monitor the manhole cover for security purposes. A distributed mesh network of wireless nodes may be used to relay communications from the monitoring devices along alternative paths, through bridge nodes that may connect to a public wireless or cellular network.

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 reports a water leak when the water level reading exceeds a water threshold value and/or when the temperature reading exceeds a temperature threshold value.

Abstract: An enclosure for a wastewater fluid level sensing and control system is provided. The enclosure for a control panel of the system may comprise a housing and a non-opaque door. Audible and/or visible alarm devices may be mounted within an interior space formed when the door is closed with respect to the housing. The control panel may be configured to turn on the audible and/or visible alarms responsive to signals from a fluid level sensing device within a reservoir. The control panel may include a touch sensor pad mounted to an inner wall of the housing. Changes in capacitance in the pad as a result of a hand being placed adjacent the sensor on the outside of the housing may be operative to cause the control panel to silence the alarms.

Abstract: A gas measurement apparatus can comprise a sensor and a processor, in an example. The sensor can measure a pressure condition of a gas tank, in an example. The processor can select at least one light source, the light source can be positioned or be of a distinct color to indicate a corresponding level of gas remaining in the tank when illuminated. The level of gas can be based on the measured pressure. Banks of high intensity LEDs can allow visually discernable colors at a significant distance underwater. A visual beacon mode can be included. An alphanumeric pressure readout mode can be included. A depth sensor can be included.

Abstract: A method is presented for indicating whether a dispensable product will require refilling prior to the next scheduled service interval. The inventive method includes tracking the amount of use over a first interval, calculating a frequency based from the use over the first interval; comparing the quantity remaining with the required amount, which is the product of the number of weeks in the service interval and the calculated frequency. Based on the usage, when the quantity remaining is less that the required amount, a warning will be provided to indicate that the dispensing product should be replaced, as it will be empty before the next service interval. A dispenser incorporating such method is also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to detection and alarm systems for predicting and detecting the location of spills, leaks, emissions, and/or pollution sources, i.e., unwanted fluid (liquid/gas) flow/escape, at refineries, e.g., oil and gas refineries, and plants, e.g., petrochemical, chemical, pharmaceutical, and food processing plants, and avoiding said unwanted flow/escape. According to one embodiment, said system comprises at least one detector, at least one battery powered radio frequency transmitter, preferably, according to one embodiment, a 900 megahertz spread spectrum transmitter, and a central processing location which, according to one embodiment, is preferably capable of handling up to 3000 points in a single cell site.

Abstract: A gas measurement apparatus can comprise a sensor and a processor, in an example. The sensor can measure a pressure condition of a gas tank, in an example. The processor can select at least one light source, the light source can be positioned or of a distinct color to indicate a corresponding level of gas remaining in the tank when illuminated. The level of gas can be based on the measured pressure.

Abstract: A fluid level sensor for generating a warning upon, e.g., low fuel conditions in a vehicle gas tank. A vacuum conduit is disposed in the tank. The vacuum conduit has first and second vacuum openings and an actuation opening into which the fuel pump can pump fluid through a Venturi conduit to induce a vacuum. A first conduit extends from the first vacuum opening to a vacuum sensor outside the tank and a second conduit extends from the second vacuum opening. The second conduit extends down into the tank and terminates in an open end. When fluid in the tank drops below the opening the vacuum sensor senses a change in vacuum in the tank, triggering a low level alarm.

Abstract: A sensing device arrangement for a fuel storage system is provided having at least one storage tank, a plurality of sensing devices positioned in or around the at least one storage tank, and a controller in electrical communication with the plurality of sensing devices. The controller is configured to communicate with each sensing device of the plurality of sensing devices on a single bi-directional data line. A sensing device of the plurality of sensing devices is activated by the controller. Data is acquired by the sensing device and transmitted to the controller over the data line. The controller instructs the sensing device to change to a low power state. The controller receives electrical characteristics from the plurality of sensing devices recognized on the data line and calculates a characteristic of the sensing device arrangement. The controller verifies compliance with an intrinsic safety barrier.

Abstract: A high liquid alarm system for use in detecting the presence of water and oil in water present in a confined space is disclosed. In one implementation, the system includes an optical sensor capable of detecting water at a certain level, a sensing device capable of differentiating oil and water, and an alarm indicator. The sensors are in communication with an indicator which is capable of providing alert signals. The optical sensor is configured to activate a second alarm in the indicator when water is detected at about a predetermined level and the sensing device is configured to trigger a first alarm when oil in water is detected at about the predetermined level. The sensors can also be interconnected such that the sensing device is activated upon detection of water by the optical sensor, reducing the power consumption of the system.

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.

Abstract: A low fluid sensor for an internal combustion engine. The sensor includes a base with helically threaded post and a float slidably mounted on the post. The float rotates about the post as it moves longitudinally along it. In the preferred embodiment, eccentric mounting of the assembly along with its lobe shape act in concert with the pitch of the screw threads and fluid viscosity to dampen the buoyant movement of the float against fluid turbulence. At a predetermined level a latch spring on the float contacts an ignition circuit terminal and grounds the engine ignition circuit. A catch holds the float at the pre-determined level, preventing engine starting, so that the sensor may only be reset by addition of fluid and re-insertion of the dipstick.

Abstract: The invention concerns an electronic device for monitoring a reservoir (14) or a tank. The invention consists of two electronic elements, module (13) and module (15). Module (13) controls the reservoir using a telemetric measurement (1) and reports to module (15) via a radio link (3 and 5). By analyzing the data emitted by the monitoring module (13), the control module (15) enables an alarm (9 and 10) to be activated or not to indicate a current break-in.

Abstract: A method of determining a temperature and a pressure in a tank is provided. The method comprises the steps of obtaining sensor data and calculating coefficients. Then, a bridge resistance is ratiometrically determined from a bridge voltage. A temperature is calculated with the coefficients and the bridge resistance. Thereafter, a transition from a temperature measurement mode to a pressure measurement mode is made. A voltage per resistance is calculated with the coefficients and a differential voltage. Then, a normalized voltage is calculated using the voltage per resistance, the differential voltage, and the bridge resistance to indirectly compensating for temperature. A pressure is calculated with the coefficients and the normalized voltage.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method, an apparatus and a computer program to detect the liquid leakage of a liquid transfer device. In particular, the present invention is directed to a method, an apparatus and a computer program that detects the liquid leakage of a liquid transfer device with electrical means.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining and/or monitoring a physical or chemical process variable of a medium, having a sensor unit, which produces a measurement signal with a piece of process variable-dependent, basic information, and having an evaluation unit which, from the measurement signal of the sensor unit, determines a measured value for the process variable, and which produces an output signal with information concerning whether the measured value is greater or smaller than a limit value. A first and second modulation range are provided, and the evaluation unit modulates the output signal within the first or second modulation range with the basic information of the measurement signal, with the evaluation unit modulating the output signal within the first modulation range when the process variable is smaller than the limit value, and with the evaluation unit modulating the output signal within the second modulation range when the process variable is greater than the limit value.

Abstract: A process for monitoring a fluid storage system using a vessel for storing the fluid and a detection apparatus using synchronized sensors for monitoring and measuring state properties of the fluid is disclosed. The method includes using a housing with at least one pressure sensor and at least one temperature sensor for synchronously collecting data regarding the fluid. Each sensor communicates with a processor and a signaling means to provide synchronized data. The method includes continuously forming at least one calculated value, such as a value for mass of the fluid, from the data synchronously collected using a processor, and continuously comparing the calculated value to at least one predetermined range of values for the fluid in the vessel to identify if the at least one calculated value is within the predetermined range of values. Then, the method includes communicating the compared values from the processor to an auxiliary device.

Abstract: An output monitoring system and method for an air transport material delivery system that directs dry material entrained in pressurized air out of delivery tubes and against an inner surface of deflectors for even distribution. The output monitoring system has a plurality of sensors respectively affixed to the deflectors on the outer side thereof so as not to be directly contacted by the stream of air and dry material impacting the inner side. Each sensor generates a voltage which is indicative of the flowing or clogged condition of its corresponding delivery tube. This status information is dynamically provided to a display unit where it can be readily monitored by the operator of the air transport material delivery system during operation thereof to ensure that the delivery tubes are not blocked or, if a blockage occurs, that operation of the air transport material delivery system is suspended until the blockage is removed.

Abstract: A protection system for an electric generator includes a fluid sensor to measure a fluid level in a fuel tank, an indicator lamp to display the fluid level, a timer to measure a time interval beginning in response to a low fuel signal from the fluid sensor and a low fuel switch to shut off the electric generator at the end of the time interval.

Abstract: A system for detecting excessive usage of product in a storage tank is provided. The system comprises a monitor and a data center. The monitor is operatively coupled to the tank for monitoring a level of product stored therein. The data center is in communication with the monitor. The data center generates an alarm signal when excessive product usage has been detected.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the optical display of information regarding the actual operating state of a liquid system and/or for setting parameters for a set operating state of the liquid system, comprising a housing (12) arranged in the area of the operation of the liquid system, a display unit (14), accommodated by the housing (12), for optical display of the information in electronic form, and actuating device (16), accommodated by the housing (12), for setting at least one parameter and a, in particular electronic, control unit (18; 44) for processing and/or conditioning of data and/or signals referring to the actual or set operating state of the liquid system, and their use.

Abstract: A method for measuring the fill level of a medium in a container by applying the radar principle, whereby a measuring signal is generated and transmitted in the direction of the medium. A retroreflected portion of the measuring signal is captured and the fill level is determined as a function of the runtime of the measuring signal. The measuring signal is transmitted into multiple mutually different regions and the retroreflected portions of the measuring signal is received at multiple receiving points. In this fashion, it is possible to at least approximate the surface structure of the medium in the container.

Abstract: A gutter system includes an indicator for indicating that the gutter system is clogged or partially clogged. The indicator includes a floating device such as a ball. There is provided a retainer that retains the ball within the gutter system and in the vicinity of a downspout and downspout opening that forms a part of a gutter system. The retainer comprises a housing of an open construction and includes a bottom, sidewall structure and a top portion. Since the housing is an open construction, water passing through the gutter can normally flow through the housing. When the gutter system is clear and does not have any substantial obstructions, it follows that the water accumulation within the gutter will be relatively small. However, when the gutter system is clogged or partially clogged, then there will be some accumulation of water in the gutter system. When there is accumulation of water, the floating device will float to an upper elevated position where the same can be seen from ground level.

Abstract: A chemical liquid injection system which a piston driving mechanism is driven only when a cylinder holding mechanism appropriately holds liquid syringes of various sizes through a cylinder adapter and such manner. When the liquid syringe 200S of a size other than the maximum size is appropriately held by the cylinder holding mechanism 120, RFID chip 230 is located on the side at the rear of metallic cylinder holding mechanism 120. A pair of resonance antennas are disposed on the left and right of the RFID chip, and an RFID reader 131 is disposed below the resonance antennas. When the liquid syringe 200S is appropriately held by the cylinder holding mechanism 120, RFID chip 230 wirelessly communicates with RFID reader 131 favorably, and the piston driving mechanism can be operated only in this state.

Abstract: A radar level gauge using microwaves for measuring a level of a surface of a product in a container, comprising a microwave unit, processing circuitry connected to said microwave unit, an interface for connecting said radar level gauge externally thereof, and a power management circuitry arranged to provide operating power to said microwave unit and said processing circuitry. The power management circuitry includes a temporary energy store, means for providing said temporary energy store with an intermediate voltage lower than an operating voltage required by said processing circuitry, in order to charge said energy store, and converting means, for converting an output voltage from said temporary energy store up to said operating voltage. According to this design, a sufficient amount of energy can be stored in the temporary energy store, operating at an intermediate voltage lower than the operating voltage of the radar level gauge.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the level or amount of a material within a container is provided. The system includes a detection mechanism that can be a direct detection mechanism or any of a number of indirect detection mechanisms. When the detection mechanism senses an upper level of the substance in the container that is below a predetermined lower limit for the substance, the mechanism operates an alarm mechanism to emit an audible and/or visible alarm to alert an individual to the low level of the substance within the container. The alarm mechanism can be integrally formed with the detection mechanism, or can be spaced from the detection mechanism in order to provide a more accessible point for the viewing or hearing of the alarm emitted by the alarm mechanism.

Abstract: An apparatus and related method for detecting oil and mineralized water, if it exists, in a well. The apparatus comprises a sensor assembly for placing down the well, the sensor assembly having a float therein that rises when fluid is detected and adapted to close an electrical contact of a circuit having a power source. The apparatus also has a base assembly used for raising and lowering the sensor assembly into and out of the well. An alarm is electrically coupled to the circuit that includes the sensor assembly and power source, the alarm operable to indicate when the electrical contact is closed.

Abstract: A security container comprises a body and a secure opening, each of which is formed from inner and outer walls. The space between the walls is filled with a fluid and a fluid sensor is located so as to detect changes in the fluid. The sensor is coupled to a security system, which is activated on the triggering of the sensor.

Abstract: At least one embodiment of the inventive technology claimed herein seeks to reduce the risk of the excessive admixing of water during a concrete wetting operation by providing a system that alerts, with at least one water flow indicator, at least one individual having the ability to readily terminate the water admixing operation either that water is currently being added and/or perhaps that a certain time of water addition has elapsed. At least one embodiment of the inventive technology includes a proximity switch.