Abstract: System and method for monitoring and controlling one or more valves. The method can include sensing a condition of a valve, transmitting the condition to a sensor server, and transmitting a data stream including the condition to an assessment application. The method can also include generating a predictive model and comparing the condition to the predictive model. The method can further include transmitting a control instruction to at least one of a valve positioner and the sensor server and varying the position of the valve based on the control instruction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device enabling an alarm to be triggered in the event of a fall into a swimming pool, and preventing false alarms caused by disturbing elements such as the wind. Said device consists of a probe (1) which is submerged in the liquid used to retransmit the aquatic waves varying in pressure in the compression chamber (8), a piezoelectric-type sensor (2) which is located inside said chamber and used to convert the pressure variations into electrical voltage, another identical sensor (3) located in the housing (7) and enabling the electronic card (4) to substract the two sets of information enabling the vibrations, in addition to the noise caused by the wind on the housing, to be eliminated, and an electronic card (4) which is used to control a siren for alerting the parents. The inventive device can optionally pilot a radio emitter (5) for controlling a deported siren.

Abstract: Monitoring pressurized fluid containers through use of a container site subsystem and a system hub. The container site subsystem including sensor(s) to sense a characteristic associated with a pressurized fluid container; and a container site hub to receive, from each sensor, raw data corresponding to the sensed characteristic. The system hub receives the aggregated raw data from the container site hub, and converts the raw data to process values.

Abstract: Monitoring pressurized fluid containers through use of a container site subsystem and a system hub. The container site subsystem including sensor(s) to sense a characteristic associated with a pressurized fluid container; and a container site hub to receive, from each sensor, raw data corresponding to the sensed characteristic. The system hub receives the aggregated raw data from the container site hub, and converts the raw data to process values.

Abstract: Monitoring pressurized fluid containers through use of a container site subsystem and a system hub. The container site subsystem including sensor(s) to sense a characteristic associated with a pressurized fluid container; and a container site hub to receive, from each sensor, raw data corresponding to the sensed characteristic. The system hub receives the aggregated raw data from the container site hub, and converts the raw data to process values.

Abstract: Warning system for a SCUBA diving apparatus that emits a first visible indication when the pressure in the tank falls below a first predetermined level and a second visible indication when the pressure in the tank falls below a second predetermined level which is lower than the first predetermined level. The warning system (10) is mountable on the first stage (14) of the SCUBA regulator.

Abstract: An emission prevention system for use on an open-ended line includes an end-cap and a proximity sensor. The proximity sensor is preferably configured to detect a change in the extent of engagement between the end-cap and the open-ended line. A method of monitoring the engagement of the end-cap and the open-ended line includes the steps of measuring the engagement between the end-cap and the open-ended line with a proximity sensor, producing a position signal representative of the engagement between the end-cap and the open-ended line and transmitting the position signal to an operator terminal. A monitoring network may be established by monitoring a plurality of emission prevention systems.

Abstract: A detection apparatus for use in a vessel for measuring a fluid includes a tubular connected to a housing containing sensors, wherein the housing includes a top, a bottom, and a hole disposed in the top of the housing. The housing containing sensors includes an outer surface and a sloped inner surface sloping from the outer surface toward a central axis of the housing and intersecting with the hole. In one embodiment, two or more housing containing sensors can be included with detection apparatus. A pressure sensor, having a diaphragm flush mounted in the sloped inner surface, can be disposed in the hole. Signaling device can be disposed in the hole for communications between the sensors and a processor. The processor receives data from the sensors and converts the data to values for transmission to an auxiliary device.

Abstract: An information transmission system comprising a conductor operable to carry a desired information signal. A first tube substantially surrounds the conductor and a second tube substantially surrounds the first tube to define a substantially fluid-tight chamber therebetween. In another aspect, the invention provides an information transmission system suited to transmit information between a first electronic device and a second electronic device located a distance from the first electronic device. The system includes an information transmission line that connects to the first electronic device and the second electronic device. A conduit surrounds at least a portion of the information transmission line. The conduit defines a substantially fluid-tight chamber. A quantity of fluid is disposed within the chamber and a sensor is positioned to measure a parameter of the quantity of fluid. An indicator is operable to signal a breach condition in response to the measured parameter.

Abstract: A temperature and pressure measuring circuit is provided. The circuit comprises an uncompensated pressure transducer, an analog-to-digital converter, a reference resistive device, and first and second switches. The transducer has variable resistive devices between first, second, third, and fourth bridge nodes. The analog-to-digital converter has first and second reference inputs and first and second differential inputs. When the first switch couples the first differential input and the third bridge node and the second switch couples the second differential input and a ground, a bridge voltage is measurable and a bridge resistance is ratiometrically determinable. The bridge resistance is employed to calculate a temperature. When the first switch couples the first differential input and the first bridge node and the second switch couples the second differential input and the second bridge node, a differential voltage is measurable. The differential voltage is employed to calculate a pressure.

Abstract: System and method for monitoring and controlling one or more valves. The method can include sensing a condition of a valve, transmitting the condition to a sensor server, and transmitting a data stream including the condition to an assessment application. The method can also include generating a predictive model and comparing the condition to the predictive model. The method can further include transmitting a control instruction to at least one of a valve positioner and the sensor server and varying the position of the valve based on the control instruction.

Abstract: A medical gas alarm system for use in a healthcare facility having a medical gas system and having a network of computer devices is provided. The alarm system includes at least one area alarm controller adapted to receive a first signal indicative of a condition of a first portion of the medical gas system. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The alarm system also includes at least one master alarm controller adapted to receive a second signal indicative of a condition of a second portion of the medical gas system. The master alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the master alarm controller through the network.

Abstract: In this compactor service and monitoring system, compactor fullness and other critical parameters are monitored by an on-site processor. Compactor fullness is monitored using a pressure sensor capable of measuring hydraulic fluid system pressure for a compactor ram during a compactor compaction cycle. The processor generates a message indicating the compactor is full when the pressure is at least equal to a preset pressure for a preset time during a compaction cycle. Messages are sent via a wireless transmitter to a receiver that converts these messages into internet messages and directs them to a computer server database system. This system creates a work order in response to the message and sends the work order to a service provider via email. The email contains a link back to the database system web-site for tracking services provided by the recipient.

Abstract: An alarm for a hydraulic system, a hydraulic system incorporating an alarm, a vehicle having a hydraulic system which incorporates an alarm, and a method of giving an alarm in a hydraulic system, where the hydraulic system comprises hydraulic fluid which is put in contact with a pressure detector, the pressure detector being for giving a signal in response to a condition of the hydraulic fluid in the hydraulic system. An alarm generator integral with said pressure detector is provided for giving an audible alarm in response to a said signal.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus for monitoring a plurality of grinder pumps, and in particular, remotely over a communications network. Aspects of the invention include an alarm panel having a modular configuration, a modem board which allows use of a single telephone line and use by the homeowner in an emergency, the transmission of data over a high voltage AC line, and recharging of a sensing tube for measuring the level of wastewater in a tank.

Abstract: The invention relates to a measurement instrument, especially for level and pressure measurement with a controller (9), which is connected to a memory unit (8), an input unit (11), and also an output unit (12). Here, the output unit (12) is embodied as an acoustic output unit. According to the invention, operator and/or operating parameters are stored in the memory unit (8) and can be output as audible speech signals from the output unit (12) by activating the input unit (11).

Abstract: A medical gas alarm system for use in a healthcare facility having a medical gas system and having a network of computer devices is provided. The alarm system includes at least one area alarm controller adapted to receive a first signal indicative of a condition of a first portion of the medical gas system. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The alarm system also includes at least one master alarm controller adapted to receive a second signal indicative of a condition of a second portion of the medical gas system. The master alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the master alarm controller through the network.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wheelchair and an underseat alarm system therefor.

Abstract: A remote monitoring system for a mobile storage tank having a product container in which a remote telemetry unit gathers liquid level and head space pressure data and global position data. The remote telemetry unit effects a wireless transmission of a standard message structure containing the pressure and level data and the global position data. In addition, in case of a storage tank having a thermal shield fluid, pressure and level data for the shield fluid itself may also be in the standard data record as well as acceleration data from an accelerometer to indicate tank damage. If upset conditions of pressure and liquid level are reached in the thermal shield and/or product container, vapor may be vented in accordance with preset programming in order to attempt to reestablish liquid level and vapor pressure above set points.

Abstract: An improved Commercial Transportation Early Warning Low Air Pressure System which is used on Commercial vehicles that are operated on or off the road. The system uses materials that are presently manufactured by Original Equipment Manufacturers as well as their Sub Contractors and installed within the Primary Air Pressure System, having sensors, lights, flashers and fittings made from a variety of materials.

Abstract: A circuit for detecting the state of a switch having a first circuit which substantially periodically attempts to provide a voltage across the switch. A second circuit detects the state of the switch by monitoring the voltage across the switch, and responsively generates an output having a voltage level representative of the voltage appearing across the switch.

Abstract: A device for monitoring the filling of a bag (10) comprises a resistor element to be mounted on the outside surface of the bag, the resistor element being a flexible potentiometer (20), the resistance whereof being changed by bending of the potentiometer due to increasing bulging of the bag wall under continuing filling of the bag. The flexible potentiometer can be connected to an alarm device (24) reacting at a predetermined resistance value of the resistor element.

Abstract: A mechanical gauge having a mechanism for setting multiple alarms within tolerance values. When such tolerance values defined by the mechanism are reached, the same mechanism activates an alarm.

Abstract: A method and system for remotely managing a network of one or more waste compactor containers, each of which is associated with a monitoring unit and has a set of operating parameters including a container pick-up level. The method and system further allow for the container pick-up level to be variably adjusted based upon one or more preselected conditions. When the present indication of compactor container fullness meets or exceed the presently adjusted pick-up level, a container pick-up request is generated. The variable adjustment of the container pick-up level, generally, takes the form of a setback amount, which alters the amount of compactor container fullness necessary for generating a pick-up request. The setback amount provides an automated approach for handling previously known interruptions or changes in container pick-up services.

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 medical gas alarm system for use in a healthcare facility having a medical gas system and having a network of computer devices is provided. The alarm system includes at least one area alarm controller adapted to receive a first signal indicative of a condition of a first portion of the medical gas system. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The alarm system also includes at least one master alarm controller adapted to receive a second signal indicative of a condition of a second portion of the medical gas system. The master alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the master alarm controller through the network.

Abstract: A vacuum chamber (22) of a pneumatically operated servo unit (30) of a motor vehicle is subjected to vacuum by an electric suction pump (28). In order to monitor the vacuum chamber (22) and the electric suction pump (28), the invention proposes that a starting pressure in the vacuum chamber (22) be determined. In addition, after a certain time interval, an ending pressure in the vacuum chamber (22) is determined. Furthermore, the difference between the ending pressure and the starting pressure is calculated and compared to a limit value. If this difference falls below the limit value, a signal is generated, in particular a warning and/or alarm signal.

Abstract: This is a tire pressure warning system that can be easily installed as an after-market item. The alarm can easily be heard while the vehicle is underway. The shatterproof window of the pressure gauge exposed at the center of the wheel cover enables the driver to quickly check pressure. An adjusting screw on the pressure gauge selects the pressure at which the alarm will sound.

Abstract: A pressure sensor 10 has a sensor chip 14 attached in a package 13 formed with a stem 11 and a cap 12 bonded at open surface sides thereof On both sides of a diaphragm 14a of the sensor chip, pressures are applied via a measurement pressure introducing tube 11a formed in the stem and a reference pressure introducing tube 12a formed in the cap. Here, a filter 15 is arranged in the reference pressure introducing tube and response to pressure at the reference pressure side is made slow. When the sensor is arranged in a room with a door and a pressure in the room is applied via two introducing tubes, if there is an abrupt change caused by the opening/closing of the door, the pressure change is immediately introduced only at the side of measurement pressure introducing tube with fast response and the differential pressure corresponding to the pressure change is applied on the diaphragm. As the differential pressure is employed, it can be determined whether the door is opened or closed.

Abstract: Acoustic level sensing by creating, or failing to create, resonance in a tube having a free end. An acoustic transducer at one end of the tube injects sound at a frequency that could produce resonance, depending on whether the free end is open or closed. The drive to the acoustic transducer is then removed, and the sound decay in the tube is monitored to determine if resonance occurred. Based on that determination, a signal is produced that indicates whether a material has or has not closed the free end of the tube. Beneficially, the same acoustic transducer that produces the sound monitors the sound decay. To determine whether resonance has occurred, or to verify system operation, the sound decay at the possible resonant frequency can be compared to the decay at another frequency. Temperature compensation can be performed by attempting to produce resonance at a plurality of frequencies.

Abstract: A system for remotely managing a network of waste containers (12), each of which is associated with a monitoring unit (38), utilizes a central computer (50) having a communication link to each monitoring unit (38). The central computer (50) provides a dynamically updated display, via a display module (60) having a full container window (or zone) which shows full containers (12), an alarm window (or zone) which shows non-full containers (12) having an alarm condition, and a container status window (or zone) which shows non-full containers not having an alarm condition.

Abstract: A method checks the flow rate for abnormalities while controlling the flow rate of fluid in a pressure-type flow controller FCS using an orifice—the pressure-type flow controller wherein with the upstream pressure P1 maintained about two or more times higher than the downstream pressure P2, the downstream flow rate QC is calculated by the equation QC=KP1 (K: constant) and wherein the control valve CV is controlled on the basis of the difference signal QY between the calculated flow rate QC and the set flow rate QS.

Abstract: An indicator assembly includes a conduit segment located in place along a gas supply line served by a pressurized tank. A pressure actuated switch of the assembly closes upon sensing gas pressure in the conduit segment to close a circuit including a battery and an indicator to signal a user that the supply line is pressurized which can occur when proper shut down procedure is not accomplished or a faulty control valve. A bleed valve on the conduit segment permits venting of a pressurized gas line. A check valve of the assembly prevents erroneous activation of the indicator by residual gas trapped in the supply line after shut down.

Abstract: A device for assisting relocation of a handicapped individual, which device has a frame that is disposed between an individual and a surface underlying the individual to assist movement of the individual across the underlying surface. The frame has a first orientation in which the frame resides with the frame being used by the individual to engage the underlying surface and assist movement of the individual across the underlying surface. The device further includes an alarm system for causing a detectable signal to be produced as an incident of the frame being repositioned from the first orientation into a second orientation.

Abstract: A hose assembly is provided for transmitting liquid fuel between the fuel tank of a highway truck and the fuel tank of an airport refueler. The assembly comprises inner and outer hoses. The inner hose transmits liquid fuel. A sealed passage is formed between the inner and outer hoses. Each end of the hose assembly is connected to a respective port for transferring the fuel between the highway truck fuel tank and airport refueler tank. The assembly includes at least one sensor port for connecting the passage to sensing means to detect leakage from the inner hose to the passage. A leakage sensing system is coupled to the sensor port for detecting leakage of fuel from the inner hose to the passage and for generating sensor signals. The leakage sensing system includes: (1) a pressure sensor for detecting a change in pressure within the passage, and (2) a liquid sensor for detecting the presence of liquid within the passage.

Abstract: An apparatus for hydraulically operating a rear cover, covering top or the like (1) on a vehicle, with at least one double-acting hydraulic working cylinder (3), which, on the one hand, is connected to the vehicle and, on the other hand, to the covering top, includes working chambers (8, 9) in connection with each one side of a switched pressure source (12) via one check valve (10, 11) each, wherein both of the check valves have an mutually releasing device and each of the working chambers parallel with respect to the check valves is kept via a pre-stress valve (15, 16), which steers into the tank, at a specified pressure level. To realize, in a simple and safe way, a passive wedging protection, in at least one connection line (4, 5) to the working cylinder (3), a line (22) enters the tank (17), in which a proportional pressure valve (23) is inserted which is controlled by the control electronics and is equal to the exact pressure that is necessary for the movement of the covering top (1) or the like.

Abstract: The process for generating at least one warning signal relating to the level in a tank (3) for storing a product (4) comprises the following steps:the storage level of the product in the tank, together with the values of the product quantity consumed during predefined time intervals are determined,these values are placed in memory together with the associated measurement instants,at other successive instantsthe values placed in memory of the product quantity consumed are used to calculate a value of the estimated quantity of product which will be consumed in the future,this estimated value is subtracted from the last measurement value so as to obtain an estimated value of the storage level at a future instant,this estimated value of the storage level is compared with a preset threshold, anda warning signal is generated if the estimated value is less than the preset threshold.

Abstract: Described herein is an alarm system for use with a `bag-in-box` arrangement (10) which is used to collect effluent from a processing apparatus (20). The alarm system comprises a chamber (50) located between the processing apparatus (20) and the `bag-in-box` arrangement (10) which includes a level sensor (52) which indicates that the `bag-in-box` arrangement (10) has been overfilled by a predetermined amount and is ready for changing.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for monitoring a characteristic of fluid flow through a fluid dispenser that permit adverse flow conditions to be monitored, analyzed and displayed to an operator. The monitor samples either the static or firing pressure a predetermined number of times and calculates an average static and firing pressure over the sampling period. The average pressure values are compared to high and low warning and alarm limits and warning and alarm error codes are produced as a function thereof. In addition, individual sampled values are compared to the high and low warning and alarm limits and pressure values exceeding the limits during a sampling period are counted. Warning and alarm error codes are produced as a function of the counted values exceeding predetermined count values.

Abstract: A probe rod is provided with sensor housings, pipe sections, and joint sleeves all having a common outer diameter. The sensor housings and joint sleeves are threadably connected to the various pipe sections. The threadable connections have a double seal using an O-ring and threading paste that ensure a gas tight seal while being easy to assemble. Pressure and temperature sensors are mounted within the sensor housings. Output leads from the sensors are threaded through the pipe sections and through throughways in the sensor housings and joint sleeves to a circuitry box mounted on the top of the probe rod. The circuitry box contains electronics for processing signals generated by the sensors and for transmitting the results to a remote location.

Abstract: A wave motion detector system for a swimming pool includes a transducer responsive to positive and negative pressure changes in swimming pool water and operative to generate corresponding electrical signals. Comparators are responsive to the electrical signals, and operative to generate a crest signal while the positive pressure exceeds a predetermined positive threshold level, and a trough signal while the negative pressure exceeds a predetermined negative threshold level. A band pass filter prevents electrical signals having a frequency greater than a predetermined upper frequency, and lower than a predetermined lower frequency from passing from the transducer to the comparators. A pulse width discriminator is responsive to the crest signal and the trough signal and is operative to generate a qualified crest signal if the crest signal remains active for a first predetermined time interval, and a qualified trough signal if the trough signal remains active for a second predetermined time interval.

Abstract: A residual fuel amount-estimating system for a fuel tank of an internal combustion engine installed in a vehicle. A pressure sensor detects the pressure within the fuel tank. The interior of the fuel tank is negatively pressurized, and a rate of change in the pressure within the fuel tank during negative pressurization is detected. A residual fuel amount within the fuel tank is estimated, based on the detected rate of change in the pressure within the fuel tank.

Abstract: A pressure alarm for sewage treatment systems such as waste-water or sewage treatment tanks which require water level control. In a preferred embodiment the pressure alarm includes a pressure sensing apparatus which includes a tee or elbow located in a tank or system aerator air line, a nipple set into the tee leg of the tee or the elbow and a ball float fitted with a shaft or neck extending through the nipple and receiving an air deflector. According to the method of this invention, the air deflector projects into the run of the tee or the elbow responsive to floating of the ball float upwardly in a high water condition in the treatment tank or system. Extension of the air deflector into the run of the tee or the elbow causes a pressure drop through the tee or elbow as air is deflected from the run of the tee through the tee leg or elbow.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for monitoring a characteristic of fluid flow through a fluid dispenser that permit adverse flow conditions to be monitored, analyzed and displayed to an operator. The monitor samples either the static or firing pressure a predetermined number of times and calculates an average static and firing pressure over the sampling period. The average pressure values are compared to high and low warning and alarm limits and warning and alarm error codes are produced as a function thereof. In addition, individual sampled values are compared to the high and low warning and alarm limits and pressure values exceeding the limits during a sampling period are counted. Warning and alarm error codes are produced as a function of the counted values exceeding predetermined count values.

Abstract: A flow alarm includes a magnetic switch that is maintained open so long as catalyst flow is maintained and an air flow switch that is closed responsive to flow of air through an associated conduit. The associated conduit supplies air via a solenoid valve to a pneumatic whistle. When flow of catalyst falls below a pre-set threshhold, the magnetic switch closes completing the circuit with the solenoid valve causing the solenoid valve to open and allowing air flow to the pneumatic whistle to signal the reduction of catalyst flow.

Abstract: An apparatus for hydraulic actuation of a hinged cover on a vehicle having a working cylinder such that work spaces within the cylinder are respectively connected, via check valves, to a reversible pressure source. The check valves respectively contain a reciprocal unclosing facility, and the work spaces are connected, via a pilot valve, in parallel to the check valves. Between the one of the work space and one of the check valves, an emergency valve guiding off to the tank is interposed and is shut off during normal operation of the apparatus to allow a safe emergency actuation of the hinged cover.

Abstract: A tire monitoring system, device and method are disclosed for detecting and indicating the presence of one or more predetermined abnormal conditions of tires on a vehicle. The system includes a plurality of monitoring devices (each of which is inserted in a different one of the vehicle tires to be monitored with the monitoring devices being unattached, and thus freely movable, when within the tire) and a receiver unit (mounted to be readily accessible, such as within the cab of the vehicle). Each monitoring device includes a sensor unit and an associated transmitter unit both of which are enclosed within a housing unit that is cushioned, as needed.

Abstract: A solid state temperature compensated annunciator is disclosed. The solid state temperature compensated annunciator includes a pressure sensor for measuring a pressure of the fillant within a vessel and a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the fillant within the vessel. The solid state temperature compensated annunciator determines a pressure that the vessel would have if the vessel were filled with a predetermined amount of fillant, and compares the measured pressure to the determined pressure. If the measured pressure is below the determined pressure, a warning signal is issued.

Abstract: A liquid level sensing and monitoring system for a medical fluid infusion system has an IV spike with a pressure sensor which contacts fluid in an infusion container such as an IV bag or bottle. When an adequate amount of fluid is in the container, the resulting pressure on the sensor is at a relatively high level; however, when the fluid reservoir is nearly depleted, the pressure on the sensor falls to a low level, thereby activating the sensor and associated control circuitry which operates an alarm or warning indicator. In lieu of the pressure sensor, the device may use a resistive or capacitive sensor. When the liquid level falls below the electrical sensor, its state changes, and the alarm circuitry is activated.

Abstract: An automatic system is disclosed which monitors and replenishes hazardous liquids in their holding tanks, as such liquids are typically used in manufacturing processes. The inventive system and method obviate the need for manual surveillance and handling of the hazardous liquids during the detection and replenishment maintenance tasks. In prior practice, maintenance personnel were subjected to dangers from the hazardous liquids and their noxious gases, while the work area (e.g., clean room) in the vicinity of the liquid tanks was also subjected to contamination.