Abstract: A device for integrating and indicating a parameter over, comprising: a first electrode (2), a second electrode (3), an electrolyte (5), which is in contact with the first electrode and in consuming contact with a consumption portion (6) of the second electrode, at least two indicators (I1, I2, I3), which are connected to the consumption portion (6) at a respective connecting point (P1, P2, P3). The electrolyte (5) and the consumption portion (6) are selected such that when a voltage is applied over the electrodes (2, 3), the consumption portion (6) is consumed at a predetermined rate, wherein the indicators (I1, I2, I3) are arranged to switch states in response to a consumption frontier (F1, F2) of the consumption portion reaching or passing a connecting point (P1, P2, P3) associated with the respective indicator (I1, I2, I3), wherein at least one of the indicators is a binary (on/off) indicator.

Abstract: A protective circuitry (20) is connected between a power input port (11) and an electronic component (12) of an electronic device. The protective circuitry includes a field effect transistor (21) and a detection unit (25). The field effect transistor has a gate and a drain both electrically connected to an anode of the power input port, and a source electrically connected to a cathode of the power input port via the electronic component. The detection unit has two conductive pads spaced to each other. One pad is electrically connected to the gate and the other pad is electrically connected to the cathode of the power input port.

Abstract: A capacitance-type liquid measuring probe 10 includes two concentric metallic tubes 12 and 14 extending downwardly into a tank of oil. The concentric metallic tubes 12 and 14 form the plates of a capacitor. The probe 10 measures the oil level in the tank during jet engine testing by detecting a change in electrical capacitance between the two concentric metallic tubes 12 and 14, the capacitance change being caused by a change in the level of the oil. The measuring circuitry 30 includes thermal compensating resistors and a temperature-stabilized detector. The measurement electronic circuit package is separately-housed and connected to the probe 10 via a cable 44 so that the circuitry 30 can be located remotely from the hot environment in which the probe 10 operates.

Abstract: A sensor system for sensing liquid level in a bilge, for use in automatic bilge pump actuation. First and second field effect sensors are potted or sealed within a container or the bilge wall and are aligned in a vertical array and each comprise a substantially planar pattern of “electrodes” or conductive traces disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB) along with integrated circuits used to create a loop or arc-shaped electric field. As bilge liquid rises to the proximity or level of the field effect sensors, a change in the arc-shaped electric field is sensed and, in response, a bilge pump is automatically actuated to pump liquid out of the bilge. Optionally, the pump control can be programmed by use of a microprocessor to permit control of on-off timing and prevent undesirable effects of “sloshing.

Abstract: A sewage pipe alarm system includes a portable case seated exterior of the existing pipe. The system further includes a mechanism for detecting a blockage of fluid flow within the existing pipe by determining whether an internal water level within the existing pipe exceeds a threshold water level within the existing pipe. The system further includes a mechanism for notifying a user about the blockage of the existing pipe and a power supply source housed within the case. Such a power supply source is electrically coupled to the detecting mechanism and the notifying mechanism respectively.

Abstract: The invention presented herein is about a camera arrangement for a motor vehicle, comprised of a housing that can be attached on the inside of a windshield of a motor vehicle, at least one camera residing in the housing, a moisture sensor installation capable of detecting the moisture on the windshield, where the moisture sensor installation is a non-optical moisture sensor installation.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for measuring a capacitance between a probe and a liquid, pausing movement of the probe based on a rate of change of the capacitance, further measuring the capacitance while the probe is paused, and, based on the further measurements, performing one or more of: resuming movement of the probe, determining a position of the probe, aspirating liquid into the probe, and dispensing from the probe. Resuming movement of the probe can include returning iteratively to measuring a capacitance, and the further measuring can be performed for a time interval that can vary based on the further measured capacitance(s), a probe movement characteristic, and/or a sampling rate.

Abstract: An overfill probe is utilized in each compartment of a multi-compartment transport tanker and has a depending sensing tube for detecting liquid overfill conditions. An overfill detector is within the bottom end of the probe tube and is thus protected from damage. Internal damage to the probe and malfunction of the system also precluded by connecting the exposed cap of the probe to the detector by a longitudinally extensible, stretchable cable extending through the tube to the detector, or a circuit board may be retained within the depending tube. Additionally, a thermistor socket and an optic socket are provided which are part of the overfill protection system, each having contact connections that may be readily replaced when worn without removing or replacing the wiring within the socket assembly.

Abstract: A measuring device is used in conjunction with a programmable controller for monitoring electrolyte levels in the battery. According to one implementation, the measuring device is located in a battery and is configured to detect when the electrolyte level in the battery falls below a particular level. The controller is in electrical communication with the electrolyte detection device. The controller is configured to: (i) receive a signal from the electrolyte level detection device indicating when the electrolyte level in the battery has fallen below the particular level; (ii) introduce a wait-period after the signal is received; and (iii) enable an indicator to indicate that the electrolyte level in the battery should be refilled when the wait-period expires.

Abstract: A valve assembly, such as a tap for a liquefied gas cylinder, includes an overfill protection device and a liquid level gauge having an electrode assembly comprising a pair of lamellar electrodes mounted closely adjacent a housing member of the overfill protection device and deflectable into close proximity with a float of the overfill protection device for insertion into the gas cylinder. A circuit board is provided, preferably mounted on the electrode assembly, and has an electronic converter circuit for measuring the electrical capacitance between the electrodes and producing in response to the measured capacitance an output signal representative of the liquid level in the container. A display means is mounted on a body of the valve assembly or remote therefrom, to indicate the liquid level in the container in response to the output signal from the electronic converter circuit.

Abstract: A distributed intelligent system. The distributed network includes at least one gateway server configured for receiving meter data from one or more nodes of a distributed meter network and at least one subscriber station in communication with the at least one gateway server via a communication network. The at least one gateway server is further configured to selectively distribute the received meter data to the at least one subscriber station in accordance with a policy.

Abstract: A system and method are used for electronically detecting the accumulation of dust within a computer system using a capacitive dust sensor. The dust detection system may be implemented on a smaller computer, such as an individual PC, or in a more expansive system, such as a rack-based server system (“rack system”) having multiple servers and other hardware devices. In one embodiment, each server in a rack system includes a capacitive sensor responsive to the accumulation of dust. The capacitive sensor may include one or more capacitive plates integral with a heatsink. As dust collects on the capacitive plates, the capacitance increases. When a capacitance setpoint is reached, indicating the dust has reached a critical level, an alert is generated. The alerts may be received by a management console for the attention of a system administrator. Each alert may contain the identity of the server generating the alert, so that the system administrator knows which server(s) are to be removed for cleaning.

Abstract: A drain pan system for activating a pump when detecting a predetermined water level in a drain pan is provided. The drain pan system includes the drain pan, the pump, a water sensor, first and second inputs, a control section and a switching device. The water sensor is coupled to the drain pan for detecting a level of water in the drain pan, the water sensor generating a drain pan water level detection signal in response to detection of the level of the water in the drain pan equal to or greater than a predetermined water level. The pump is coupled to the drain pan and, when activated, pumps the water from the drain pan. The first input couples a source line to a first power potential. The second input couples a neutral line to a second power potential, the second power potential being a neutral potential. The control section is coupled to the water sensor for receiving the drain pan water level detection signal therefrom.

Abstract: A sensor for detecting the presence of a liquid. The sensor includes a housing having a concave upper surface, a concave lower surface, and a peripheral wall connecting the upper surface and the lower surface, the wall extending above the upper surface and below the lower surface. A plurality of apertures are formed in the wall. A plurality of electrically conductive members extend above the upper surface and below the lower surface and are separated from one another by a gap in which a liquid can accumulate. The electrically conductive members are configured to generate an output signal when a conductive liquid comes into contact with the electrically conductive members and bridges the gap. An output connector is coupled to the plurality of electrically conductive members and is configured to carry the output signal.

Abstract: A system comprising at least one liquid detector that has a cathode and an anode and at least one switching mechanism for receiving a positive voltage from the cathode and anode of a liquid detector. Each switching mechanism comprises at least one switching component that is connected with a power source. Each switching component supplying a current from its connected power source when the switching component is activated. Preferably, each switching component is activated, when the switching component receives a voltage that exceeds a threshold voltage. The system also comprises a base unit that communicates remotely or through direct connection with each switching mechanism. The base unit communicates with at least one application control device that is connected with at least one electronic control apparatus for preventing the undesirable condition.

Abstract: A wastewater holding tank sensor probe for use in determining the presence of a conductive liquid held within a wastewater holding tank in a recreational vehicle is disclosed. The probe is less sensitive to the presence of conductive residue as a result of an improved geometry and/or choice of materials that reduce the leakage currents between the probe tip and the sensor probe attachment surface, typically the wall of the tank. This reduction in sensitivity to conductive residue buildup can be measured by a geometrically determined resistivity factor between the probe tip and the mounting surface of the probe. The reduction in sensitivity can also be measured by the length of the path through the conductive residue between the probe tip and the mounting surface of the probe. A variety of geometries and material choices to reduce the sensitivity of electrical conductance based sensor probes to conductive residue are disclosed.

Abstract: The filling noise generated inside a pressurized container when liquid is injected into the container is detected at the outer end of a vent tube which extends into the container. When the level of liquid in the container reaches the lower end of the vent tube, the filling noise detected at the outer end is abruptly diminished. This abrupt change is detected and used to automatically terminate filling of the tank.

Abstract: A fueling environment is equipped with leak detection probes and liquid level probes. Each of the probes is associated with a wireless transceiver. The wireless transceivers send probe data to a site communicator wireless transceiver. To ensure that the site communicator receives the probe data, repeaters are used within the fueling environment. The repeaters receive the probe data, and some period of time after the sensor transceivers stop transmitting, the repeaters retransmit the probe data to the site communicator. The site communicator discards duplicative information and processes the probe data as needed.

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: A water level sensor for a steam humidifier. The water level sensor includes a plurality of conductive probes, where the plurality of conductive probes includes at least one common probe and a plurality of water level probes. Each of the conductive probes are separated from each other conductive probe. The water level sensor further includes a non-conductive overmolding covering at least a portion of each of the conductive probes. The non-conductive overmolding defines a flange configured to seal an opening in a tank of the steam humidifier and an electrical connection point configured to receive an electrical connector for providing electrical connections to each of the conductive probes. A steam humidifier is also disclosed.

Abstract: A valve assembly, such as a tap for a liquefied gas cylinder, includes an overfill protection device and a liquid level gauge having an electrode assembly comprising a pair of lamellar electrodes mounted closely adjacent a housing member of the overfill protection device and deflectable into close proximity with a float of the overfill protection device for insertion into the gas cylinder. A circuit board is provided, preferably mounted on the electrode assembly, and has an electronic converter circuit for measuring the electrical capacitance between the electrodes and producing in response to the measured capacitance an output signal representative of the liquid level in the container. A display means is mounted on a body of the valve assembly or remote therefrom, to indicate the liquid level in the container in response to the output signal from the electronic converter circuit.

Abstract: A float assembly light indicator for use in detecting water levels within a container, such as a Christmas tree stand, includes a float housing having multiple float switches therein and are operably connected to a remotely locatable water level light indicator.

Abstract: [Theme] To provide a device or a judging method for judging the type of liquid inside a container that can be applied to containers of various shapes and can be applied to cases where the remaining amounts of liquids in containers differ. [Solution Means] This invention's device for judging the type of liquid inside a container is equipped with: a plate capacitor 1, wherein two plate electrodes 1a and 1b are positioned in opposing manner; a container supporting member 3, holding, in a region besides the region sandwiched between plate electrodes 1a and 1b, a non-conductive container 2 that can contain a liquid in its interior; an oscillation circuit 4, containing capacitor 1; and a control part 5, detecting the oscillation frequency of the oscillation circuit; and container supporting member 3 is arranged to adjust the distance from plate electrode 1a to container 2 in accordance with the size of container 2.

Abstract: A resonant high-speed microscopic impedance probe useful for small scale impedance measurements and/or cell and particle counting.

Abstract: A flood alarm is disclosed. In an illustrative embodiment, the flood alarm includes a float assembly and a telephone system interface module connected to the float assembly. A method of indicating a flood in a structure is also disclosed.

Abstract: A sensor system, device, and methods for determining the concentration of an analyte in a sample is described. Gated voltammetric pulse sequences including multiple duty cycles of sequential excitations and relaxations may provide a shorter analysis time and/or improve the accuracy and/or precision of the analysis. The disclosed pulse sequences may reduce analysis errors arising from the hematocrit effect, variance in cap-gap volumes, non-steady-state conditions, mediator background, a single set of calibration constants, under-fill, and changes in the active ionizing agent content of the sensor strip.

Abstract: A sensor system, device, and methods for determining the concentration of an analyte in a sample is described. Gated amperometric pulse sequences including multiple duty cycles of sequential excitations and relaxations may provide a shorter analysis time and/or improve the accuracy and/or precision of the analysis. The disclosed gated amperometric pulse sequences may reduce analysis errors arising from the hematocrit effect, variance in cap-gap volumes, non-steady-state conditions, mediator background, under-fill, temperature changes in the sample, and a single set of calibration constants.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for measuring a capacitance between a probe and a liquid, pausing movement of the probe based on a rate of change of the capacitance, further measuring the capacitance while the probe is paused, and, based on the further measurements, performing one or more of: resuming movement of the probe, determining a position of the probe, aspirating liquid into the probe, and dispensing from the probe. Resuming movement of the probe can include returning iteratively to measuring a capacitance, and the further measuring can be performed for a time interval that can vary based on the further measured capacitance(s), a probe movement characteristic, and/or a sampling rate.

Abstract: A sensor system for sensing liquid level in a bilge, for use in automatic bilge pump actuation. First and second field effect sensors are potted or sealed within a container or the bilge wall and are aligned in a vertical array and each comprise a substantially planar pattern of “electrodes” or conductive traces disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB) along with integrated circuits used to create a loop or arc-shaped electric field. As bilge liquid rises to the proximity or level of the field effect sensors, a change in the arc-shaped electric field is sensed and, in response, a bilge pump is automatically actuated to pump liquid out of the bilge. Optionally, the pump control can be programmed by use of a microprocessor to permit control of on-off timing and prevent undesirable effects of “sloshing.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining the level of liquid in a container in an analytical instrument, typically an automated analytical instrument in a laboratory. The apparatus comprises: (a) an electrically conductive support; (b) an electrically conductive platform rising up from said electrically conductive support, said platform capable of supporting at least one container that is capable of containing a liquid, said platform having an area less than that of the electrically conductive support; (c) an electrically conductive element, such as, for example, the electrically conductive tip of a probe, the distance between the electrically conductive platform and the electrically conductive element capable of being reduced or increased by relative movement between the electrically conductive element and the electrically conductive platform; and (d) a capacitance sensor coupled to the electrically conductive element (c) and arranged to provide an electrical signal representing the capacitance.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting a predefined fill level of a medium in a container having a lid by means of a conductive measuring system, which has at least two measuring electrodes extending into the container. A measurement current flowing between the two measuring electrodes is used to detect the reaching of the predefined fill level. The apparatus makes possible a differentiated detection of accretions on the lid of the container. According to one variant of the invention this is achieved by providing a compensation electrode, which is arranged such that the degree of fouling in the region of the lid of the container is determined on the basis of a current flowing between one of the measuring electrodes and the compensation electrode, caused by conductive accretions in the lid of the container.

Abstract: A moisture sensing apparatus, system and method. In general, a surface can be provided, and one or more conductor pairs located in a plane of the surface. Each conductor of the conductor pair(s) is insulated from one another. Water droplets forming on the conductor pair(s) thereby provide a quantifiable measurement of water on the surface. A controller can be electrically connected to the conductor pair(s), wherein the controller provides data indicative of whether or not the conductor pair is shorted.

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: A novel moisture detector for detecting moisture in potting media or soil for plants includes a body formed to represent a creature. Inside the body is a processor and a battery. One or more probes adapted to be inserted into soil extend from the body and send an electrical signal to the processor to indicate a level of moisture proximate to said probes. At least one eye of the creature carries a light emitting diodes (LED) that lights up when the probes are inserted into soil having insufficient moisture. Furthermore, when the user touches one of the eyes, the LED lights as long as the battery has sufficient power to operate the processor.

Abstract: The system includes a fuel sender and a controller. The fuel sender has a variable resistance and the variable resistance varies based on the quantity of fuel in the fuel tank. The controller is in electrical communication with the fuel sender. Further, the controller includes a voltage input for sensing a voltage across the fuel sender, and a voltage output that provides a biasing voltage to the fuel sender. The biasing voltage causes the voltage across the fuel sender to vary with relationship to the variable resistance of the fuel sender. Further, the voltage output is in communication with a circuit that is configured to alternate a direction of current flow through the fuel sender based on the voltage output. By alternating the direction of current flow through the fuel sender, corrosion to the fuel sender due to a reaction with the fuel is minimized.

Abstract: A 3D liquid detection sensor, liquid-sensitive building material, and liquid detection systems have been provided. The 3D sensor comprises a 3D liquid detection field and an electrical connector to supply a resistance measurement responsive to liquid in the detection field. In one aspect, the 3D liquid detection field includes a first plurality of pins having a distal end electrically connected to a first electrical contact of the electrical connector, and a second plurality of pins having a distal end electrically connected to a second electrical contact. In one aspect, each pin includes a building material attachment barb attached to a pin proximal end. This permits the sensor to be fixedly mounted in drywall or ceiling tile, for example. More specifically, the 3D detection field may include a dielectric sheet (either rigid or flexible), and electrically conductive traces formed overlying the dielectric sheet, with pins extending from the traces.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a level sensing spray applicator. In one embodiment, the spray applicator includes a gun that receives a liquid and a supply vessel coupled to the gun. The vessel includes a level sensor responsive to the volume retained by the supply vessel. In another aspect, a level-sensing supply vessel includes a level sensor responsive to a volume of liquid retained by the supply vessel, the sensor including a sensor element to detect the volume by sensing a resistance property of the liquid. In still a further aspect, a method of sensing a level of a liquid retained within a storage vessel includes sensing a first liquid volume, removing a portion of the first volume to define a second volume, determining if the second volume is less than a minimum volume, and generating an alarm signal if the second volume is less than the minimum volume.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for measuring a capacitance between a probe and a liquid, pausing movement of the probe based on a rate of change of the capacitance, further measuring the capacitance while the probe is paused, and, based on the further measurements, performing one or more of: resuming movement of the probe, determining a position of the probe, aspirating liquid into the probe, and dispensing from the probe. Resuming movement of the probe can include returning iteratively to measuring a capacitance, and the further measuring can be performed for a time interval that can vary based on the further measured capacitance(s), a probe movement characteristic, and/or a sampling rate.

Abstract: Disclosed is a conductivity detector assembly for use with a beverage preparation apparatus as well as a hot water dispensing apparatus. The conductivity detecting assembly includes a non-conductive spacer for spacing apart a first conductive portion and a second conductive portion. A conductive path extends through the non-conductive spacer connecting the first and second conductive portions. An exterior surface of the non-conductive spacer is provided in a configuration, for example a generally conical shape with sloped sides, for shedding liquid away from the first conductive portion. A conductive circuit is completed when liquid is retained in the reservoir, the level at which contact can be made between the first conductive portion and a corresponding interior surface or conductive portion of the reservoir.

Abstract: A device, having a container for holding a fluid moving therein and a conductance probe installed therein for providing a conductance signal indicating whether it is in contact with the fluid, features a jiggler arrangement having a jiggler arranged on the conductance probe so as to form a mechanical self-cleaning conductance probe, which responds to movement of the fluid, for wiping the conductance probe to keep deposits from building up on the conductance probe. The jiggler arrangement may include one or more grooves thereon so that the jiggler can be loosely fitted on the tip between one or more retaining rings arranged in the one or more grooves. The jiggler arrangement may include one or more retaining rings snap-fit on the tip for loosely arranging and retaining the jiggler on the tip.

Abstract: A liquid level sensor for conductive liquids having a virtual bias ring to prevent false “full” indications. The sensor is an inexpensive conductive probe that can be installed in any tank or container used to contain a conductive liquid. The build up of residue such as conductive fluid that fails to drain on the inside of the container wall and probe pieces can cause a short between the probe and ground. This situation will result in falsely showing that the level of the liquid being measured is at least at the minimum predetermined requirement even though the actual level may be far less than that amount. The bias ring is a virtual “ring” that is provided around the insulating base of the sensing probe between the probe tip and the top inside of the tank. The probe is then given a charge (positive for negative ground systems) which interrupts the current path between the sensing tip of the probe and ground via the conducting residue.

Abstract: A signaling device for a marine vehicle having a fuel tank, a fuel level value detected in the fuel tank, and a blower to evacuate fuel fumes. The signaling device comprises: a fuel level variation detector; a refueling detector for detecting a fuel level variation corresponding to a refueling event; a refueling signal generator for generating a refueling signal when the refueling event is detected; and a refueling activator for activating the blower, and/or an indicator of refueling for the user, using the refueling signal. A signaling method for the marine vehicle comprising: detecting a variation of the fuel level value over time; detecting a fuel level increase in the variation to correspond to a refueling event; generating a refueling signal when the refueling event is detected; and activating the blower, and/or an indicator of refueling for the user, using the refueling signal.

Abstract: An automated device monitors moisture content in exterior sheathing of a building for detecting moisture intrusion into the sheathing walls. A plurality of moisture sensors are embedded in selected exterior walls of the building behind the cladding and are adapted to provide signals representative of the moisture content in the walls at each of the selected locations. A control unit is operatively connected with each of the plurality of moisture sensors for generating an alarm signal when at least one of the signals representative of the moisture content in the plurality of walls is indicative of a moisture content in excess of a predetermined threshold value.

Abstract: A liquid level detecting apparatus having detachable terminals and capable of holding down the formation of silver sulfide is provided. The apparatus includes a movable contact displaced in accordance with the fluctuation of a liquid level, electrodes slidingly contacted by the movable contact on a circuit board, a first resistance connected to the electrodes, and connecting portions which the terminals contact, a resistance value of the first resistance which varies when the movable contact is slidingly moved on the electrodes being outputted from the terminals via the connecting portions, wherein the sections of the connecting portions which contact at least the terminals are covered with second resistances.

Abstract: A liquid level sensor for standard bottles containing highly viscous materials such as gels so that the bottles may be inserted into an appliance to alert a user when the bottle is empty. The holder conveniently locates the bottle in the holder which includes insert molded contacts, wire harness and seal piercing mechanism. The bottle holder will universally fits into most appliances and machines. The invention enables the use of standard bottles are liquid reservoirs such that the bottle can be discarded when empty.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus thereof for monitoring leakage of process cooling water (PCW) in a furnace. In the method, a bellows used to deliver the process cooling water is covered by a protecting tubing, so as to protect the bellows from being corroded by the process environment and to control the flow direction of the cooling water leaking from the bellows, thus avoiding the cooling water sprinkling. In addition, a tray is installed under the bellows to receive the leaking cooling water, so as to prevent the leaking cooling water from spilling on wafers. Besides, sensors are installed in the tray to send a signal while the cooling water falling on the tray.

Abstract: A fluid sensor probe such as a temperature probe uses heat shrink tubing to seal and provide strain relief at a proximal end of the probe. The heat shrink tubing uses a layer of hot melt adhesive along its inside surface to form a strong bond and hermetic seal. The heat shrink tubing is applied as an inner tubing around circuit wires extending into the probe and as an outer tubing around the inner tubing and around the proximal end of the probe housing. Together the inner tubing and the outer tubing can hermetically seal a substantial gap between the probe housing and the circuit wires. In a fast response probe, prior to closing the distal end of the probe housing with an end wall, openings are punched in a side wall of the probe housing against a mandrel. The openings permit fluid flow to contact the sensing element within the probe housing. Heat shrink tubing can be used to seal the circuit wires and prevent leakage.

Abstract: The automatic shutoff overflow controller comprises a circuit which engages between a source of power and a water processing device, the controller, sensing an undesirably high water level in a liquid containment into which water drains from the device, shutting off the device and producing an audible warning that such condition exists.

Abstract: A signal transmitting apparatus which makes exchanging information when pouring a liquid possible. A container body 201 of a transmitter side container 20 holds an electrically conductive liquid 402. A display 306 for confirming data reception is attached to a container body 211 of a receiver side container 21. The container body 201 and the container body 211 are electrically connected at a predetermined impedance by the liquid 402. Because digital data is modulated by a carrier of approximately 10 MHz, an electromagnetic field is generated. In particular, a return line 404 due to an electromagnetic near field is generated, and communications from the transmitter side container 20 to the receiver side container 21 becomes possible.

Abstract: A beverage dispensing apparatus includes a dispensing device, at least one valve that distributes a diluent, a concentrate pump that distributes concentrate, a support structure that supports the foregoing components and exterior cladding attached to the support structure. The exterior cladding provides the appearance of a real leaf tea brewer. The diluent valve and concentrate pump distribute the diluent and concentrate into the dispensing device to form a mixture to be dispensed therefrom. The diluent can be hot water and the apparatus further includes an air ejector device for eliminating air bubbles from the hot water prior to mixing. In addition, an improved sensor can accurately determine when the supply of concentrate is depleted.