Abstract: An alarm system for use in a salt-brine tank of a water softener has a sensor including a stem member having a lower end received in the bed of salt within the salt-brine tank and an upper end projecting above the bed of salt. An spaced pair of electrodes are supported at the stem member upper end and are responsive to direct contact with a brine solution inside the tank for generating the signal indicative of an abnormal condition. An electronic circuit is coupled to the sensor for generating an alarm which includes two counters coupled to a clock circuit such that any alarm indicative of the abnormal condition is delayed for a predetermined period of time after the sensor signals the abnormal condition, and the alarm is generated as spaced, short bursts of sound, the spacing between the bursts of sound being greater than the duration of the bursts.

Abstract: An ice stock detecting apparatus includes a thermostat having a temperature sensor element and a holder for holding the sensor element in a spaced relationship with an ice stocker inner wall. The holder includes a pair of holding member fixedly mounted on the inner wall to project therefrom inwardly of the stocker, and a protecting member extending between the holding members. The holder supports the sensor element with downward inclination toward one end thereof. The protecting member has a top end portion disposed under the sensor element and inclined in a manner similar to the sensor element at a greater angle than the latter.

Abstract: A fluid status detection system includes a plurality of probes connected to a controller. The controller includes a microprocessor, a digital memory, relays, and progammed so that selected alarm and relay latching conditions may be stored, and alarms activated and relays latched according to the alarm and latching conditions. The microprocessor is programmed to provide an alarm acknowledgement signal upon the alarm being acknowledged. An operator may select one or more release conditions individually for each relay from a plurality of possible relay release conditions and store the conditions in the memory. The possible relay release conditions include: the condition that the probe signal indicates that the event that caused the alarm has cleared; the condition that the alarm acknowledgment signal has been provided; the condition that the probe signal indicates that the event that caused the alarm has cleared and the the alarm acknowledgment signal has been provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus determines a quantity of liquid in a tank when at least one liquid sensor is inoperative. In a first embodiment, a plurality of tables are stored in memory which are grouped by identities of the possible inoperative sensor or sensors. One group of tables is selected based on the identified inoperative sensor or sensors. Then, that one group of tables is accessed, and the quantity of liquid in the tank is calculated based on the readings of the operative sensors. In a second embodiment, a first plurality of tables stores quantity readings for each sensor as if all sensors are operable. A second plurality of tables includes one table for each possible configuration of inoperative sensor or sensors. When the inoperative sensor or sensors are identified, one particular table in the second plurality is accessed and a quantity amount is then added to the liquid quantities determined from the first plurality of tables to provide a total liquid quantity in the tank.

Abstract: An intravenous supply alarm assembly comprises a bladder adapted to contain an intravenous fluid, a support extending from the bladder and an alarm intimately associated with both the bladder and the support, said alarm operating to provide a signal when the volume of the intravenous fluid in the bladder is less than a pre-defined minimum.

Abstract: A warning system for warning a lack of a working fluid for an engine. The engine is provided with an ignition unit supplied with an ignition power supply from a magneto. A sensing unit senses the lack of the working fluid and produces a detection signal. A warning element, connected to the magneto, receives a power supply to give a warning indicating the lack of the working fluid. A controller is responsive to the detection signal from the sensing unit for actuating the warning element to provide the warning without deteriorating a performance of the ignition unit.

Abstract: An activating mechanism is disclosed for an indicator. The mechanism includes a mounting bracket which may be connected to a container. A force transmitting member is slidably received by the bracket and extends through the container wall. The actuator is collapsible to be slid through an opening formed in the container wall. Through lever action, the actuator engages and moves the force transmitting member.

Abstract: Changes in underwater sediment level in a marine environment are monitored electronically using a probe embedded in the sediment. The probe includes an electrical current source to generate an electric field extending across the sediment interface. Voltage measurements are taken at at least three sensors on the probe whose positions are known relative to the current source. The height of the sediment interface relative to the current source can then be calculated, and logged, and changes in sediment level can be monitored. The conductivities of the sediment and seawater can also be calculated by taking additional voltage measurements.

Abstract: An auger type ice making machine comprises an ice storage level detecting apparatus (5) including an ice storage level sensing plate (5a) disposed within an ice guide barrel (3) at a position opposing to an ice discharge port (2). A pair of guide plates (7) for guiding ice discharged from the ice discharged port toward a center portion of the ice storage level sensing plate are mounted on both side walls (3b) of the ice guide barrel (3) closely adjacent to the ice storage level sensing plate (5). By mounting the paired guide plates (7), gaps otherwise taking place between the ice storage level sensing plate (5) and the ice guide barrel (3) are closed to thereby prevent the ice from moving to the rear side of the ice storage level sensing plate by circumventing it. The ice storage level sensing plate is thus protected from being blocked.

Abstract: A storage installation which is capable of storing a variety of free-flowing materials, both conductive and non-conductive, includes a level sensing device which may be disposed either exteriorly or interiorly thereof. The device has either one or a plurality of level sensor and sensor circuit pairs which are preferably disposed vertically within a non-electrically conducting tube which may be hermetically sealed from contact with the stored material. The level sensors comprise respective sensing capacitors, each having effectively a single plate construction. Grounded electrical contacts, if relatively adjacent, may comprise the other side of the effective sensing capacitor. Electrostatic force lines flow outward from the sensing capacitor(s), and are differentially interfered with by the presence or absence of materials or objects to be sensed. Such interference affects the dielectric constant of the respective sensing capacitor, which can in turn be detected to drive a level indicator display.

Abstract: In order to determine the contents of a tank fitted with liquid level sensors and metering equipment, a microprocessor is programmed with an algorithm employing a mathematical expression for initially computing data value based on liquid level sensor outputs and tank dimensions, which data values are compared with actual volumetric amounts of liquid in the tank derived from the metering equipment so as to determine errors in a calibration characteristic for converting the sensor outputs into volumetric amounts. The calibration characteristic is refined by an iterative technique where constants in the mathematical expresson are varied, in accordance with the program so as to make the computed data values closer to the actual volumetric amounts derived from the metering equipment for respective liquid levels in the tank.

Abstract: A lubricant level monitor for gear covers of locomotives uses a vacuum probe tube to determine if the lubricant is below a predetermined level. The vacuum is only activated if the locomotive has been at rest for a predetermined period of time, so that the lubricant has time to settle. The monitor employs a minimal amount of electrical devices and uses pneumatic logic wherever possible insure trouble-free operation. The monitor eliminates the requirement of inspection personnel going beneath the locomotive, and it eliminates the need for the locomotive to be arbitrarily pit-inspected every two weeks for a lubricant level check.

Abstract: A remote oil tank display apparatus is set forth in combination with an oil tank for the indication of oil tank volume. The sending unit is encased in a hermetically sealed container to prevent oil fume propagation throughout an area. A combination digital and light emitting diode display is set forth and is remotely positioned relative to the oil tank to enable individuals of diminished physical capacity to receive and display information of oil volume remaining in an oil tank. Further, an audio means may be selectively employed in concert with the visual displays to assist individuals of diminished hearing capacity.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A sensor apparatus for detecting sludge in a tank e.g. an oil storage tank, wherein sonar tarnsmission and reception is effected by a transducer (29) whose acoustic center is coincident with the center of curvature of a liquid filled part spherical sonar dome part (15) of a housing (13) for the apparatus. The acoustic pressure waves consequently pass through the dome part of the housing in a direction normal to its surfaces thus minimizing velocity, amplitude and phase changes of the waves as they pass to and from the transducer, and avoiding blind spots in the area monitoried by sensor apparatus. Preferably, the apparatus further includes an arrangement (31, 33, 35, 37) within the housing for angularly moving the transducer (29) about two orthogonal axes which intersect at said center of curvature.

Abstract: A smoke and liquid level detector particularly useful for detecting sump pump failure. The detector comprises a sensor head containing two exposed electrodes in electrical contact with two leads which are connected to either side of the ionization chamber of a conventional, ionization-type smoke detector. The sensor head is disposed immediately above the normal water level within the sump well of a sump pump. In case of sump pump failure, the rising water level will immerse the sensor head, causing the electrical contact to be made between the two electrodes, thereby completing a circuit and causing an alarm signal to be sounded.

Abstract: Combination hydrocarbon and water level sensor systems for use in connection with underground storage sites, such as gasoline storage tanks, industrial waste sites, and the like, with a solar cell power source and an LCD display located above ground and providing directly viewable indication of the presence or absence in the underground environment of "HYDROCARBON" and/or "WATER", with the absence of such being indicated by "OK". In the preferred form, a pod containing an adsorptive type hydrocarbon gas sensor and a galvanic cell type liquid water sensor is suspended by electrical cable means from a well cap in which the solar cell and LCD display are installed.

Abstract: A sensing arrangement for sensing the level of a bulk material, such as the paving material fed by a paving machine, comprises an ultrasonic transducer spaced from the paving material for controlling the feed of material.

Abstract: A remote control for engine oil level indicator assembly for incorporation with the dipstick assembly of a vehicle engine for determining when the oil level reaches a point when oil should be added. This remote oil level indicator includes an air valve assembly that has a tube connecting it to the dipstick assembly, as well as a second tube furnished with a manually-operated plunger associated with the vehicle dashboard within reach of the driver, as well as an electrical switch having an air-actuated switch connector for closing the switch. Associated with this switch is an electrical lamp on the dashboard that is connected to a source of electrical energy (car battery) such that when the ignition switch is closed the lamp will be energized.

Abstract: A method an apparatus for measuring the distance to a target wherein FM wave is transmitted to the target and its reflected wave is received. A beat wave is then obtained using the thus-received wave and the FM wave. A sine wave is mixed with the beat wave and a first sideband wave of a plurality of sideband waves of the resultant mixed wave is obtained. Another sine wave is mixed with the sideband wave. Then, a second sideband wave of the thus-obtained mixed wave is separated and detected. In the above manner, phase modulation is applied directly to the above-described beat wave. Information pertaining to distance can then be obtained from the number of peaks of the thus-modulated beat wave. A microwave profile meter suitable for use in the determination of the surface profile of a burden in a blast furnace is also disclosed.

Abstract: An oil gauge accessory for automotive vehicles and the like having a float switch disposed in a casing adapted to be mounted for vertical adjustment alongside the crankcase oil pan and to be connected by suitable tubing at the bottom thereof to the drain opening of the oil pan so that crankcase oil and the float switch rises in the casing to the same level as in the oil pan. Signal means such as different colored lights and a normally open manually operable switch in-circuit with the float switch and a suitable power source, are mounted so as to be visible to and operable by the driver of the vehicle. The casing is adjustable so that when the manual switch is closed, the float switch energizes either one of the signal means which indicates a proper level of oil in the crankcase or the other signal means which indicates that the oil level in the crankcase is low and needs to be replenished.

Abstract: An automatic ice making apparatus for freezing ice making water into ice having the shape of a cube or the like and storing the ice in an ice bank, in which the quantity of the ice stored in the ice bank is detected by a stored ice detecting device, and when the stored ice quantity is small or zero, the ice making operation is continued, while when the stored ice quantity corresponds to a predetermined quantity, the ice making operation is stopped. A stored ice detecting arm is provided replaceably through a joint member in order to attain an easy setting of the above stored ice quantity, that is, an easy adjustment of a detection level for the ice bank.

Abstract: An ignition powered indicator system for detecting and audibly alerting an operator of a low oil condition associated with an internal combustion engine for apparatus such as a lawn mower, pump, generator, tractor and the like. The indicator system includes a low oil switch mounted on the engine crankcase housing and connected in circuit with a buzzer, diode, and capacitor with the ignition primary. When the oil level is too low, the switch closes shorting the ignition primary to shut off the engine and produce an intermittent beeping sound, namely, one beep per ignition pulse, alerting the operator of the low oil condition.

Abstract: Procedure to measure the level (14) of a liquid (13) by means of elastic waves, such liquid (13) being contained within an axially moving tube (11) and cooperating with a filler tube (12), the filler tube (12) being used as an element in the transmission of elastic waves to the liquid (13), such elastic waves being picked up (16) outside the axially moving tube (11).Device (10) to carry out the above procedure, which device (10) cooperates with a filler tube (12) and comprises:at least one transducer (15) to transmit energization of the vibration of the filler tube (12), andat least one receiver transducer (16) located outside the axially moving tube (11).

Abstract: An electrically conductive liquid level sensor utilizing a pair of parallel closely spaced electrically conducting probes that are exposed within a liquid container for immersion in said liquid. The sensor includes an electrical insulator partition extending between the probes so as to interrupt any direct path therebetween while at the same time localizing the conduction path to a narrow band of liquid levels due to the close spacing of the probes.

Abstract: In an instrument system consisting of a transmitter in one location and a receiver in another location connected by a transmission medium, fail-safe operation is obtained by restricting the output of the transmitter to well-defined levels and interpreting any substantial departure of the received signal from these well-defined levels as a failure. When a failure is detected, alarms or other equipment may be activated, including a control circuit which causes replacement of the defective transmitter or transmission medium, thereby restoring the system to service. An embodiment wherein the transmitter is an admittance-responsive transmitter in a two-wire current loop for monitoring the condition of materials is described.

Abstract: An oil level sensing device is provided for use in conjunction with an engine having a cycling vacuum source, an oil reservoir and a dip stick guide tube extending upwardly from the oil reservoir. The device comprises a housing defining a chamber while a valve plate having a port divides the housing chamber into upper and lower chambers. An elongated fluid conduit is secured to the housing and open to the lower chamber while the other end of the conduit is insertable into the dip stick guide tube and the end of conduit is positioned at a predetermined level with respect to the oil reservoir. A piston is slidably mounted within the upper chamber and is movable between an upper and a lower position. A spring urges the piston towards its lower position during low vacuum mode while the engine vacuum source, connected to the upper chamber, urges the piston towards its upper position during high vacuum mode.

Abstract: A load-sensitive level detecting device for detecting the level of a powder or liquid comprises a piezoelectric vibrator (3), a case (1) which separates the object whose level is to be detected from the latter, the case (1) being formed with an opening (1b), which is closed by an elastic sheet (2) serving as a movable detecting section, whereby when the load exerted by the object is applied to the elastic sheet (2), the vibration of the piezoelectric vibrator (3) is constrained.

Abstract: An ice-making machine includes a hopper (10) which is provided with means for automatically switching the machine off when the ice collected in the hopper rises to a predetermined level. The hopper comprises a cup-shaped bowl (14) covered with a flanged collar (24) slidable within the bowl. The collar (24) in turn is covered with a lid (32) which is press fitted onto its upper cylindrical part (28). Magnetic switches (38 and 40) are attached to collar (24) and magnetically sensitive contacts of the switches are mounted in bowl (14). The switches are connected in series in the circuit of the drive motor of the ice-making machine and are normally closed. When ice fills the bowl to a predetermined level, the lid and the collar, which is rigidly connected to the lid, are lifted, thereby breaking the contacts and turning the ice-making machine off. When, after consumption of ice, its level in the bowl is lowered, the lid and the collar descend, closing the contacts and reenergizing the ice-making machine.

Abstract: An improved flake ice making machine is disclosed wherein flake ice is broken away from a submerged refrigerated surface by a rotating auger. A tank surface opposite the refrigerated surface has screw thread guides affixed to it which cooperate with the rotating auger to lift ice flakes over the tank wall and into an ice receiving channel encircling the tank wall. A sweeper arm rotates with the auger and sweeps the ice in the channel towards a discharge opening. Pressure sensitive switch means are connected for stopping rotation of the auger in response to an excessive accumulation of ice in the event of blockage of the discharge opening. The auger is supported only to a drive shaft extending through the evaporator so that there are no submerged bearings or bearing surfaces.

Abstract: An offshore drilling tower has at least one upright hollow member extending from below the water to support an above-water platform. A detector in or on the hollow member, usually below the water, responds to a water leak into the hollow member. The detector includes a signal generator responsive to pressure or chemical effect of the water. The detector is effective when actuated by water intrusion into the hollow member and into contact with the detector to send a signal of a unique or distinct frequency through the member itself to a signal receiver, preferably on the platform. The receiver is tuned to the distinct frequency and is effective upon receipt of such signal to afford an indication that the detector has been actuated by a water leak at a particular location.

Abstract: A measure of the enroute weight of an aircraft is continuously provided by determining the zero fuel weight during takeoff, adding the weight of total fuel as measured by fuel quantity sensors, interrupting the latter measure and holding its then current value whenever the fuel quantity sensors may be in error, such as when the aircraft is not level or during aircraft accelerations, and during this time computing the rate of change of aircraft weight as a function of aerodynamic and engine parameters and subtracting the time integral of this computed value from the held fuel quantity sensor value. Upon the aircraft resuming level, unaccelerated flight, the integrator is reset and the sensed fuel quantity measure restored.

Abstract: A liquid gaging system comprising a plurality of sensors, each sensor providing a liquid measurement signal relating to a liquid depth at a particular location in a tank. The invention also comprises apparatus for selectively monitoring individual sensors one at a time. The apparatus for selectively monitoring is connected to the sensors.

Abstract: A high frequency signal is beamed into a bunker and a reflected signal from the top of the contents in the bunker is detected and fed into electronic circuitry. This circuitry obtains a beat signal dependent in frequency on the height of material in the bunker and the signal is subjected to division in a processing circuit and subsequent treatment as a Fast Fourier transform. A store gathers all divided and transformed segments of the signal to provide a spectrum from which the level of the bunker can be obtained as a read out.

Abstract: A method of and an apparatus for indicating a remaining fuel quantity for vehicles, designed to digitally indicate the quantity of fuel remaining in the fuel tank of a vehicle. The method of and the apparatus for repeating the operations of performing sampling detection of an amount of fuel remaining in the fuel tank of a vehicle, determining a center value for a plurality of remaining fuel quantity values detected by a microcomputer, determining limit values each thereof being apart from the center value by a predetermined amount, using any subsequent detected value exceeding the limit values as a new limit value, computing an average value of a predetermined number of detected sampling values, and indicating it on a display.

Abstract: Apparatus for comparing the level of two spaced points, to find which is higher or lower, and possibly also for determining the magnitude of the difference in level of the points. The apparatus comprises two chambers that communicate with each other through a flexible conduit. The conduit and the lower portion of each chamber is filled with liquid, preferably mercury, whose level in each chamber varies as the elevations of the chambers relative to each other. An electric circuit interconnects the chambers; and the circuit is opened or closed upon variation in the relative levels of the chambers; or the amount of current flowing in the circuit is progressively changed with changes in the relative elevation of the chambers. Various embodiments of circuit for achieving this are disclosed, including make-or-break contacts, a variable capacitor, a variable resistance slide wire, and a variable resistance deformable strain gauge.

Abstract: In an instrument system consisting of a transmitter in one location and a receiver in another location connected by a transmission medium, fail-safe operation is obtained by restricting the output of the transmitter to well-defined levels and interpreting any substantial departure of the received signal from these well-defined levels as a failure. When a failure is detected, alarms or other equipment may be activated, including a control circuit which causes replacement of the defective transmitter or transmission medium, thereby restoring the system to service. An embodiment wherein the transmitter is an admittance-responsive transmitter in a two-wire current loop for monitoring the condition of materials is described.

Abstract: A contact pin extends into a removable metallic coin collecting container at a predetermined fill level and is connected to one end of the secondary winding of a transformer forming the tank circuit of a first oscillator which has an output signal circuit on the output thereof. The other end of the secondary winding is connected to the metallic coin container or to another contact pin spaced from the first contact pin a greater distance than the diameter of the coins being collected. When coins in the coin container reach the predetermined fill level they complete the contact pin circuit causing the output signal circuit to emit a signal indicative that the coin container is full. The wall of the removable coin container, when it is in place, extends through the field of an induction coil connected in the tank circuit of a second oscillator which has a second output signal circuit on the output thereof to emit a signal indicative of whether or not the coin container is in place.

Abstract: An apparatus for cooperation with an existing opening within a cooling radiator of a vehicle for determining the liquid level in the radiator. The radiator, which may be an automobile or truck radiator, is connected to an electrical power source of the vehicle through the vehicle chassis. An insulator is established relative to the vehicle radiator in a substantially fixed relation. A sensor is mounted to the insulator for extending into the liquid in the radiator when a sufficient quantity of liquid is contained therein. The sensor has a plurality of curved surfaces for increasing the surface area of the sensor. An indicator interconnects the sensor with the electrical power source of the vehicle for indicating the level of liquid contained in the radiator by conductivity through the liquid in contact with the sensor. The increased surface area of the sensor enables the indicator means to be a conventional incandescent lamp connected in series with the sensor and the electrical power source of the vehicle.

Abstract: Apparatus for and methods of remotely monitoring outputs of Geiger-Mueller tubes including cables for connecting individual Geiger-Mueller tubes to a central monitoring station wherein electronics for sensing the output of each tube is located at the central station rather than juxtaposed with each tube. The electronics are used to trigger individual alarms and a general alarm whenever radiation levels sensed by the Geiger-Mueller tubes pass a predetermined threshold. The apparatus and method are especially useful for monitoring levels of materials in hoppers, or the like, by sensing the impingement of or absence of beams of radiation on Geiger-Mueller tubes.

Abstract: A fluid level control circuit with a safety test function for a boiler water level probe of a fail safe type is connected to a field effect transistor controlled amplifier having a well defined threshold of operation. A safety test switch means is provided to pull the amplifier's input down below the threshold point, but not to a shorted condition. By observing the output of the system it is possible to determine whether the fluid level detector is properly installed, and whether the amplifier has had any type of unsafe operating failure.

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and method for detecting the presence, or absence, of material at a predetermined location. A crystal controlled oscillator generates a constant-frequency, constant-amplitude signal which is fed through a load resistor to an antenna sensor circuit, including an antenna probe positioned at the sensing location. The amplitude of the signal fed to the sensor circuit varies as the impedence of the antenna probe is affected by material in its environment, or the lack thereof. The signal amplitude is converted to a d-c voltage level, which is added to a reference d-c voltage level preset with the antenna probe free of impedance-affecting material. The difference voltage level value thus obtained, and which reflects the environment of the antenna probe, is used to control a switching circuit whose output assumes one value or another, depending ultimately on the antenna probe's environment.

Abstract: A device for detecting and indicating pending exhaustion of the fuel supply for an airplane or the like. The device preferably is connected between the fuel supply and the fuel pump of the airplane, and comprises a fuel reservoir bowl, a fuel inlet, a fuel outlet, a float switch above the bowl and a vapor orifice for directing fuel vapors from the upper portion of the reservoir bowl to the outlet. Some fuel passing through the device accumulates in the reservoir bowl and entrained fuel vapors move upwardly and pass through the vapor orifice to the outlet. When the fuel supply is low and more vapor is entrained therein, vapor is trapped in the upper portion of the device and forces the fuel level in the reservoir downwardly which causes the float switch to close a circuit to a low fuel alarm and/or indicator. The fuel in the reservoir bowl can be used for continued engine operation to allow sufficient time for corrective action after low fuel has been indicated.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the level of material in a container includes a timer which responds to the change in the capacitance of a probe as the level of the material varies with respect thereto. An oscillator periodically strobes said timer, which thereafter remains on for a length of time determined by said probe capacitance. A meter indicates this timer on-time, thereby providing a measure of the detected probe capaictance, and thus the level of material. The on-time of said oscillator is also variable, the output thereof being coupled to said meter to hold said meter off for a time equal to the time said timer is caused to be on due to the residual capacitance of the probe existing even when no material is present. One or more flag timers are also provided, including the ability to adjust the on-time of each said flag timer to provide an indication of a critical level or of a level above or below such level.

Abstract: A safety device and monitoring device -- for use with piston-type and turbo-type oxygen compressors -- for oil leakage at the seals of the machine, comprising at least one collecting element for leakage oil, which is introduced into a vessel in which it actuates a signal device.