Float Sensor Patents (Class 340/623)
  • Patent number: 7486179
    Abstract: A low fluid sensor for an internal combustion engine. The sensor includes a base with helically threaded post and a float slidably mounted on the post. The float rotates about the post as it moves longitudinally along it. In the preferred embodiment, eccentric mounting of the assembly along with its lobe shape act in concert with the pitch of the screw threads and fluid viscosity to dampen the buoyant movement of the float against fluid turbulence. At a predetermined level a latch spring on the float contacts an ignition circuit terminal and grounds the engine ignition circuit. A catch holds the float at the pre-determined level, preventing engine starting, so that the sensor may only be reset by addition of fluid and re-insertion of the dipstick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: C-K Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold Edward McCormick, Mark Murray
  • Publication number: 20080297359
    Abstract: An optical switch having a housing, a light source and a light detector. The light source and light detector are located remote from the housing, The light source is connected to the housing with a first light guide, and the light detector is connected to the housing with a second light guide. The first and second light guide cables have distal ends positioned through the housing and are optically aligned but separated by a gap. The switch includes a device to interrupt a light beam that is usually adapted to removably occupy the gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Raleigh L. Cox, Christopher E. Cox
  • Patent number: 7456753
    Abstract: An internal pressure explosion-proof system is provided that is capable of detecting high-pressure abnormality of an internal pressure explosion-proof mechanism, urging a check of gas/air apparatus by providing a means for notifying a user of abnormality, and decreasing excessive pressure of an internal pressure chamber. A high-pressure abnormality detector and a pressure regulating valve are provided in an air discharging portion for releasing the gas/air discharged from the internal pressure explosion-proof mechanism. The working pressure of the high-pressure abnormality detector is set to be lower than the working pressure of the pressure regulating valve. The high-pressure abnormality detector sends a signal when the pressure becomes higher than the set pressure to make the alarm give a warning and makes the open valves open to decrease the pressure of the internal pressure chamber of the internal pressure explosion-proof mechanism which became excessive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Yaskawa Denki
    Inventors: Teruhisa Kitagawa, Shingi Takahashi
  • Patent number: 7418861
    Abstract: A liquid level sensor for measuring liquid levels in underground and above ground containers includes a frame formed to have an elongate hollow tubular configuration that encloses a cavity. A cam pivot has an end extending into the cavity from a first inner wall portion of the frame. A cam is arranged to be pivotal about the end of the cam pivot. A float is placed in the cavity. A spring is arranged to bias the cam arm into contact with the float to force a side portion of the float into a locked position in frictional engagement with the second inner wall portion of the frame. A cam actuator pivotally mounted in a lower end portion of the frame exerts a force on the cam arm to release the float from the locked position when the lower end of the frame contacts the container bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Inventors: John J. Fling, William F. Fling
  • Patent number: 7417552
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Inventor: Milan Vaskovic
  • Patent number: 7403127
    Abstract: A device for establishing and/or monitoring a predetermined fill level in a container is provided, to indicate the fill level in a container and exhibiting a best possible, optimum fit for an application, which device includes: a mechanical oscillatory structure placed at the height of the predetermined fill level, which structure exhibits a membrane and two mutually separated oscillation bars formed thereon, an electromechanical transducer, which in operation excites the oscillatory structure to oscillate with oscillations, such that the oscillation bars execute oscillations perpendicular to their longitudinal axis, a receiver- and evaluation-unit, which uses the oscillations to establish and/or monitor whether the predetermined fill level has been reached, or not, in which the oscillation bars exhibit a shape in which a mass moment of inertia of a liquid quantity, which the oscillation bars move with them in the immersed state in the liquid, is as large as possible and greater than 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Endress + Hauser GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventor: Helmut Pfeiffer
  • Patent number: 7401571
    Abstract: A gutter system includes an indicator for indicating that the gutter system is clogged or partially clogged. The indicator includes a floating device such as a ball. There is provided a retainer that retains the ball within the gutter system and in the vicinity of a downspout and downspout opening that forms a part of a gutter system. The retainer comprises a housing of an open construction and includes a bottom, sidewall structure and a top portion. Since the housing is an open construction, water passing through the gutter can normally flow through the housing. When the gutter system is clear and does not have any substantial obstructions, it follows that the water accumulation within the gutter will be relatively small. However, when the gutter system is clogged or partially clogged, then there will be some accumulation of water in the gutter system. When there is accumulation of water, the floating device will float to an upper elevated position where the same can be seen from ground level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Inventor: Tony William Creed
  • Patent number: 7307538
    Abstract: A single pump control unit can be coupled to first and second float switches and a pump for purposes of removing fluid from a region such as a sump. A supplemental set of contacts can be provided to couple an alarm indicating signal to a remote alarm. An alarm state can also be transmitted wirelessly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Metropolitan Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Kochan, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7287482
    Abstract: An emergency flotation device includes water-proof housings that are secured to a selected portion of the vehicle such that the housings are mounted medially of the vehicle's tires. Selectively inflatable flotation bags are operably coupled and permanently conjoined to the housings. The flotation bags are deployable downwardly and outwardly wherein lateral portions of the flotation bags wrap beneath and around the tires such that a bottom half of the tires are completely encapsulated by the flotation bags. Each tire receives one flotation bag thereabout. A pneumatic mechanism is included for automatically inflating and deflating the flotation bags. The pneumatic mechanism is disposed within the housings and is spaced from the tires. A mechanism is included for sensing a water level engaged with the tires. The water level sensing mechanism is connected to the pneumatic mechanism for instructing the pneumatic mechanism to inflate and deflate the tires during emergency situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventors: Geraldine Banchetto, Jeanne Sciacca
  • Patent number: 7265677
    Abstract: System for indicating when a tank is full. The system includes a signal and control box. A container is connected to the tank. The container has a base, a float, an upper portion, and a lower portion. An orifice is arranged at the upper portion of the container. The float has an electrical contact connected to the signal and control box. The base of the container is arranged one of above a maximum filling level of the tank and substantially at the same level as the maximum filling level of the tank. A communication conduit is connected to each of the base of the container and an area of the tank which is in proximity to an upper portion of the tank. The system generates at least one warning signal after the tank is completely filled and when the container is partially filled by the communication conduit. This Abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Dupont
  • Publication number: 20070194941
    Abstract: An oil level detection device for an internal combustion engine, which comprises: a housing permitting entry therein of oil; a float provided within the housing and vertically movable with the oil entered in the housing; a switch for performing switching operation in response to the vertical movement of the float within the housing; protrusions provided, on the upper surface of the float, for preventing the float from sticking to the ceiling of the housing due to viscosity of the oil; and protrusions provided, on the bottom of the housing, for preventing the float from sticking to the bottom of the housing due to viscosity of the oil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Publication date: August 23, 2007
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kazutomo Nishida, Kazumi Miyashita, Toshikazu Nakamura, Toru Taniguchi
  • Patent number: 7230540
    Abstract: A liquid level alarm is placed in a tank having a bottom and has a weight, a floating box, an alarm circuit and a cord. The weight is placed on the bottom of the tank. The floating box has a top recess, a passage, a slide and a top cover. The passage communicates with the top recess. The slide is mounted slidably in the passage. The alarm circuit is mounted in the top recess in the floating box and has two contacts, an alarm element, a switch and a spring. The switch is connected to the slide. The spring is connected to the top cover and holds the switch open. The cord is connected to the weight and the slide. When the floating box moves above a predetermined level, the switch with the slide moves down and makes contact with the contacts to activate the alarm element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Inventor: Huang-Lin Wang
  • Patent number: 7135981
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Teleflex Megatech Inc.
    Inventor: Yvan Lafontaine
  • Patent number: 7116236
    Abstract: An oil tank sight glass monitor comprising a housing having an opening therein sized to receive the sight glass of an oil tank; an emitter for emitting a beam of light, the emitter being mounted to the housing on one side of the opening so that the beam of light is directed across the opening; a detector for detecting the beam of light generated by the emitter, the detector being mounted to the housing on the other side of the opening, in optical alignment with the emitter, so as to detect the beam of light emitted by the emitter; and an alarm for producing an audible sound when the detector fails to detect the beam of light generated by the emitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Antron Engineering & Machine Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony F. Denietolis, Jr., James G. Burke, III
  • Patent number: 7111510
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Nippon Seiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nakagawa Tadoa, Sato Tetsuya
  • Patent number: 7094334
    Abstract: The described embodiments of the present invention include a water filter having a float portion with a magnet that moves up and down due to water flow to activate a switch for tracking the use time of the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: H2O International Inc.
    Inventors: Guillermo Guzman, Keith Worboys
  • Patent number: 7068175
    Abstract: A water level warning device for use in conjunction with a bathtub or a sink, for audibly warning a user when the water flowing into the bathtub or sink has reached a predetermined level. The warning device comprises a cylindrical tube containing a floating ball and having a plurality of circular openings extending fully therethrough for allowing water from the bathtub or sink to enter the tube. The top of the tube has a pressure-activated sensor and a speaker in communication with the sensor. The height of the tube may be telescopically adjusted by the user, thereby allowing the user to set the level of water required to activate the sensor. In use, the floating ball floats upon the upper surface of the water entering the tube, and activates the sensor when the level of water reaches the top of the tube. Upon selective activation of the sensor, the speaker emits an audible alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Larry Pennington
  • Patent number: 7066024
    Abstract: A float adapted to track an interface between two liquids of differing density, includes a hollow buoyant body having an interior cavity adapted to retain liquid. At least one upper access opening is provided in the body, which is adapted to permit filling of the interior cavity with liquid. The interior cavity is capable of holding sufficient liquid to retard the buoyancy of the body. By filling the interior cavity with a liquid of a first density, the hollow buoyant body can be made to float at an interface with a lighter liquid of a second density.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Brian Watchel
  • Patent number: 7053782
    Abstract: A fuel overflow alarm system sounds a buzzer or other alarm when a fuel level in a fuel tank of a vehicle or other machine approaches an overflow state, thereby alerting a user that fueling should be halted. The device is activated when a fuel cap or fuel cap cover on a filler inlet tube to the fuel tank is opened and is de-activated when the filler inlet tube is closed. Thus, electrical current drawn by the system can be limited to time periods when the fuel tank is being filled, thereby sparing the electrical system of the vehicle or machine from being depleted during periods of non-use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Yamaha Marine Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Sumihiro Takashima, Tomoyoshi Koyanagi
  • Patent number: 7013728
    Abstract: A system for detecting the level of liquid in a tank includes a sensor part provided to the tank and for sensing a position of the liquid level in accordance with displacement of a float, and a sensor casing arranged in the tank to be isolated from liquid and for accommodating the sensor part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Hitachi Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Okada, Masato Kumagai, Hironori Ohhashi
  • Patent number: 7004650
    Abstract: A developing device for developing a latent image formed on an image carrier with a developing liquid includes a liquid storing section for storing the liquid including a developing substance and a carrier liquid. A developer carrier deposits the liquid fed from the liquid storing section thereon. A float type liquid level sensor senses a liquid level in the liquid storing section. The liquid level sensor includes a magnetic force generating member for generating a magnetic force, a magnetic force sensing device for sensing the magnetic force, and floats movable up and down in accordance with the liquid level in the liquid storing section. A distance between the magnetic force generating member and the magnetic force sensing device varies in accordance with the movement of the floats, allowing the liquid level to be determined on the basis of the output of the magnetic force sensing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsutomu Sasaki, Osamu Satoh, Masahiko Itaya, Tsuneo Kurotori, Hiroki Kubozono
  • Patent number: 6972685
    Abstract: A liquid level detecting apparatus resistant to the deterioration and corrosion thereof is provided while holding down an increase in the manufacturing cost thereof. This apparatus 1 has fixed electrodes 3 on which a sliding contact point 5 is slidingly moved in accordance with a fluctuation of a float, and a first resistor 4 connected to the fixed electrodes 3, the fixed electrodes 3 being made of at least silver (Ag), palladium (Pd) and a glass component, a weight ratio of the silver (Ag) to palladium (Pd) being not lower than 75 wt. % to not higher than 25 wt. %, a sliding portion 7 of the fixed electrodes 3 on which the sliding contact point 5 is slidingly moved being covered with second resistors 8 a resistance value of which is lower than that of the first resistor 4.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Nippon Seiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Sato, Koichi Sato, Tadao Nakagawa, Kiyoshi Enomoto, Toshio Hayakawa, Yoshiyuki Shimazaki
  • Patent number: 6937155
    Abstract: An annunciating apparatus comprises a toilet tank containing water and an electrical circuit within an enclosure. Extending upwardly from the enclosure, an arm terminates with a hook engaging the toilet tank for suspending the enclosure in a position just below the toilet tank. The electrical circuit provides a source of electricity, an activating circuit, a sound producing circuit, a sound selecting circuit, an amplifying circuit and a speaker. This circuit is enabled for producing a selected sound from the speaker when the toilet tank is flushed. Two modes are possible; one where the sound is initiated by the water in the tank dropping during flush, and the second when a selected flush related sound is picked up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: Jodie L. Ballard
  • Patent number: 6910498
    Abstract: A liquid level control system for detecting and responding to changes in the level of liquid in a container. The system includes a transmitter in radio communication with a receiver, which is in turn connected to a valve assembly. The transmitter unit is programmable to respond to changes in the level of liquid in a container and to emit a radio signal receivable by the receiver unit, which controls the release of liquid to the liquid container via the valve assembly. The signal may be suppressed by a timing circuit in the transmitter circuitry unless and until a liquid level change is sufficiently sustained. The receiver is also programmable to keep the liquid control valve open a predetermined amount of time or to close the valve upon receipt of a high liquid level signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Inventor: Michael L. Cazden
  • Patent number: 6843414
    Abstract: A smart fluid storage container assembly and methods of using the container assembly. The container assembly includes features that minimize the risk of degradation of any fluid or other material contained in the container, provide for monitoring of the conditions the fluid has and is being subjected to, and provide for storage of identifying information and other data with the container itself. The information accompanying the container can be used to identify the contents of the container and/or the proper storage and use of the material contained within the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Alejandro R. Madrid, Rick Roberts, Hans-Ulrich Hahn, Jim Seagoe
  • Publication number: 20040233063
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a fluid level float switch and protective boot therefore. The boot is adapted to engage a detent portion of the float switch in a secure watertight fashion. The boot is adapted to flexibly accommodate movement of the float within the boot in response to changes in the liquid level in the reservoir in one embodiment or to engage contacts in another. The boot has a wall engaging portion for providing watertight engagement with an interior wall of the reservoir. The boot has an accordion shaped stem portion to facilitate insertion of the float switch into the boot and to flexibly accommodate movement of the float within the boot in one embodiment, or a rigid portion attached to the flexible portion in another embodiment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2004
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Applicant: Tennant Company
    Inventors: Charles J. Sorbo, David P. Curry, James B. Dockendorff, Thomas Peter Mathews
  • Patent number: 6822565
    Abstract: A wireless gauge alert system including a near empty sensor, a near full sensor, a transmitter, a receiver, and an alert device used to monitor the fuel level status of a liquid fuel or pressure (vessel) tank having a measuring device with an output member and gauge. Upon detection of a predetermined near empty condition, the transmitter sends an encoded wireless alarm signal to the receiver. The alert device then generates a user notification signal. The receiver and alert device, which preferably comprise an LED, are held in a housing having a plug extending therefrom to mount the housing to an electrical socket in a high traffic area. An alternate alert system includes a receiver unit coupled with a computer that allows either the user or a vendor computer to monitor the status of the sensor and respond accordingly. Another alternate alert system includes multiple zone remote assemblies for installation on separate fuel tanks to be monitored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventors: Keith A. Thomas, Timothy A. Kearns, Bruce R. Davis
  • Publication number: 20040221645
    Abstract: A fuel level sensor that includes a housing having a cavity formed therein, and a resistor element disposed within the cavity for creating a signal that may be utilized to indicate a liquid fuel level within a fuel tank. A float lever is associated with the housing adjacent a first end and adjacent a second end with a float that is responsive to the level liquid fuel in the fuel tank. The float lever includes a first magnet that is disposed adjacent to the housing. A wiper and contact assembly is positioned generally adjacent to the resistor element to generate a signal that may be used to indicate a liquid fuel level. The wiper and contact assembly includes a second magnet that is magnetically coupled with the first magnet so that movement of the float lever is translated to movement of the wiper and contact assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2003
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventors: Marc A. Brzozowski, Daniel A. Gilmour
  • Patent number: 6798346
    Abstract: The invention comprises a sensor to detect submergence of an automobile, a control means for generating output signals, air bags, driving units for the air bags, and a unit for generating and broadcasting an emergency signal. The device according to the present invention further comprises an emergency switch driven by sensing that the automobile is not started by the key switch but forcibly started. According to the present invention, submergence of an automobile can be prevented and the human life can be protected, and also by the generation of an emergency signal in case of abnormal manipulation of a key due to a car theft and the like, the property can be protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Tae Woon Kim
  • Publication number: 20040154393
    Abstract: A dial assembly with magnetic calibration feature adapted for use as part of a gauge assembly for measuring fluid levels in cryogenic applications is disclosed. The dial assembly includes a base, a pivot pin extending from the base, a pointer assembly pivotally mounted on the pivot pin, and a calibration magnet with adjustment feature. The pointer assembly includes a pointer coupled with a pointer magnet. The calibration magnet with adjustment feature is magnetically coupled to the pointer magnet and adapted to adjust a position of the pointer magnet and therefore the pointer relative to volume indicia on a dial face of the dial assembly. In operation, a movement of the calibration magnet induces a movement in the pointer magnet. The adjustment feature is coupled to the calibration magnet such that it is manipulatable even when the dial assembly is mounted on a gauge head of a gauge assembly installed on a vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Applicant: ROCHESTER GAUGES, INC.
    Inventors: Carl A. Taylor, Dan E. Swindler
  • Patent number: 6753785
    Abstract: An oil tank sight glass monitor comprising a housing having an opening therein sized to receive the sight glass of an oil tank; an emitter for emitting a beam of light, the emitter being mounted to the housing on one side of the opening so that the beam of light is directed across the opening; a detector for detecting the beam of light generated by the emitter, the detector being mounted to the housing on the other side of the opening, in optical alignment with the emitter, so as to detect the beam of light emitted by the emitter; and an alarm for producing an audible sound when the detector fails to detect the beam of light generated by the emitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventors: Anthony F. Denietolis, Jr., James G. Burke, III
  • Patent number: 6748805
    Abstract: A liquid level measuring apparatus is provided, which includes an input circuit configured to receive electrical signals from level sensors configured to provide an electrical signal proportional to a liquid level in a tank portion. The input circuit provides a single output signal proportional to the combined liquid level in one or more liquid storage vessel portions. The apparatus may further include or be connected to a transmitter such as a wireless transmitting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Robert Shaw Controls Company
    Inventor: Benjamin N. Lease
  • Patent number: 6741180
    Abstract: A dispensing urn assembly (10, 10′) with a hollow body (12) with an interior surface for containing beverage (14) and a manually operable faucet (16) for selectively dispensing beverage (14) from the bottom of hollow body with an electronic status display assembly (50) controlled by a microcomputer (62) in response to a temperature probe (44), a level probe (42) and a timer reset switch (46) to provide graphic displays (64,68, 72), numerical displays (66,70, 74) of the temperature, quantity and time elapsed or remaining since the brewing of the beverage and light indication displays (55,57, 59) when preselected values are ahieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Food Equipment Technologies Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Zbigniew G. Lassota
  • Patent number: 6730865
    Abstract: An electrical inductance overflow switch comprises a housing with an upper portion with a main central tube with a hole from top to bottom. A sideways extension runs outwards from the tube and terminates with a mounting clamp with gripping serrations. The lower portion of the housing has an open lower end with legs and a closed upper end coupled to the upper portion forming a continuous passageway through the main tube. A switch subassembly has a shaft between enlarged upper and lower ends. The shaft coupled has an inner wire passageway and is coupled at the upper end with the tube of the housing. A donut-shaped rigid electrically conductive float. A central hole in the float moves freely up and down the bearing surface. A washer shaped induction disk is coupled to the top of the float. A plurality of wires are contained within the passageway of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Rodolfo Hernandez-Zelaya
  • Patent number: 6727822
    Abstract: A liquid level sensor apparatus and a method of using thereof for determining the level of a conductive liquid held within a container, wherein the container is subject to the accumulation of residue as a consequence of the conductive liquid contained therein. The liquid level sensor includes a sensor part which has a voltage; a ground connection having an electrical polarity; a circumferential ring having a bias voltage opposite in polarity to the ground connection and a voltage corresponding to that of the sensor attached around the sensor; a float which is buoyant on the conductive liquid; and a conductive tip attached to the top of the float, the conductive tip being conductive with the sensor end when in at least one predetermined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Standex International Corporation
    Inventors: Edward R. Chamberlin, Paul Linsley
  • Publication number: 20040075564
    Abstract: A liquid level detecting apparatus resistant to the deterioration and corrosion thereof is provided while holding down an increase in the manufacturing cost thereof. This apparatus 1 has fixed electrodes 3 on which a sliding contact point 5 is slidingly moved in accordance with a fluctuation of a float, and a first resistor 4 connected to the fixed electrodes 3, the fixed electrodes 3 being made of at least silver (Ag), palladium (Pd) and a glass component, a weight ratio of the silver (Ag) to palladium (Pd) being not lower than 75 wt. % to not higher than 25 wt. %, a sliding portion 7 of the fixed electrodes 3 on which the sliding contact point 5 is slidingly moved being covered with second resistors 8 a resistance value of which is lower than that of the first resistor 4.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Tetsuya Sato, Koichi Sato, Tadao Nakagawa, Kiyoshi Enomoto, Toshio Hayakawa, Yoshiyuki Shimazaki
  • Patent number: 6715349
    Abstract: An aircraft fuel-gauging system has multiple ultrasonic gauging probes providing fuel height outputs at several locations within a tank. The output of an inertial sensor is used to compute the attitude of the fuel surface with respect to the tank. The system uses the attitude information to determine whether outputs from a group of two or more probes are compatible with one another. Where a probe is identified as having an output incompatible with the fuel surface attitude and the outputs of other probes its output is excluded from the computation of the fuel quantity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Smiths Group PLC
    Inventor: Harry Atkinson
  • Patent number: 6711949
    Abstract: A remote two-module electronic fluid monitoring system to be used as an agricultural aid in the application of a fluid to a field. A tank module sits atop a field tank and monitors internal fluid level. Fluid level detection is achieved by tracking the position of an embedded permanent magnet associated with a given internal fluid level within an existing float gauge mechanism. An integrated circuit capable of precisely detecting the orientation of magnetic fields senses the angular position of an existing magnet and outputs an angular field reading to an interfaced microcontroller which then translates angular reading to fluid level. The tank module contains a radio frequency transmitter which then sends fluid level information to a display module mounted within the tractor cab. The display module receives the signal from the tank module and reports to the user the present fluid level remaining in tank via a liquid crystal display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Fluent Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Chad Michael Sorenson
  • Patent number: 6708562
    Abstract: A liquid level indicator for an oil-filled transformer, power choke or tap changer in which a sensor part has a float which rises and falls with the oil level and rotates a sensor shaft and the sensor shaft is coupled to an indicator shaft on which a pointer is provided to cooperate with a dial. The gauge also includes a contactless angle encoder operating with a magnetic hub and coupled to the indicator shaft for outputting a signal representing the oil level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Messko Albert Hauser GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Werner Krüger, Karsten Viereck
  • Publication number: 20040050158
    Abstract: A liquid level gauge assembly that has particular utility for petroleum products has a threaded cylindrical projection that allows quick installation onto a storage tank. The gauge assembly operates by measuring the displacement of a float member through a filament that extends through a restrictive opening in the outer housing of the gauge assembly. An adapter is connected to the free end of the filament outside the outer housing. The opening is sized so that the adapter is prevented from passing therethrough, thus preventing the filament from retracting completely into the housing. The gauge assembly also includes an electronic level or volume monitoring system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: R. Michael Webb
  • Patent number: 6679286
    Abstract: A compact ball tap with 1 a water level switch which comprises a guide standpipe 5 vertically arranged in a tank T, a float 6 slidably installed on the guide standpipe 5, a valve 3, a lever 4 controlling an open-close action of the valve 3 connected with the float 6, and a water level switch 29 transmitting predetermined control signals when the float 6 shifts to a predetermined water level, wherein one float 6 is shared by the ball tap 1 and the water level switch 29.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Yoshitake Inc.
    Inventors: Nobuhide Kato, Hiroyuki Mizuno
  • Publication number: 20040001004
    Abstract: A liquid level sensor apparatus and a method of using thereof for determining the level of a conductive liquid held within a container, wherein the container is subject to the accumulation of residue as a consequence of the conductive liquid contained therein. The liquid level sensor includes a sensor part which has a voltage; a ground connection having an electrical polarity; a circumferential ring having a bias voltage opposite in polarity to the ground connection and a voltage corresponding to that of the sensor attached around the sensor; a float which is buoyant on the conductive liquid; and a conductive tip attached to the top of the float, the conductive tip being conductive with the sensor end when in at least one predetermined position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Publication date: January 1, 2004
    Inventors: Edward R. Chamberlin, Paul Linsley
  • Patent number: 6657545
    Abstract: An automatic detecting and prewarning system for medicine instiller mainly includes a clamp for easily clamping on a flow-indicating cylinder of the medicine instiller, detecting means of an electronic sensor type mounted on the clamp, alarm means connected to the detecting means via a conductor, and a drop carrier pivotally connected to a lever to locate in the flow-indicating cylinder below a medicine dropper. After a fixed number of drops or flow per minute is set for the medicine instiller and input to the alarm means, medicine drops fallen from the medicine dropper one by one impact on and reciprocatingly sway the drop carrier to intermittently cut off the detecting means as a control signal to the alarm means. When an abnormal number of drops or flow per minute continues for a preset time, the alarm means is automatically enabled to emit warnings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventors: Yu-Yueh Lin, Kan-Jung Yang
  • Publication number: 20030188576
    Abstract: This invention relates to a novel engine oil system which automatically or manually replenishes oil in the crankcase from an onboard oil reservoir system. An oil level indicator and oil refill device comprising: (a) a source of electrical power; (b) an engine crankcase; (c) an oil level float in the crankcase; (d) a first electrical contact point associated with the oil level float; (e) a second electrical contact point located at a predetermined level in the crankcase; (f) an oil reservoir; and (g) an electrical solenoid valve connected to the source of electrical power and the oil reservoir and normally in a closed position, the solenoid valve being activated when the first electrical contact point contacts the second electrical contact point and opening the solenoid valve and permitting oil to drain from the oil reservoir to the crankcase, said solenoid valve closing when the first electrical contact point rises with oil level and ceases to contact the second electrical contact point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventor: Gile Jun Yang Park
  • Publication number: 20030183002
    Abstract: A fluid level indicator for a fluid container of a motor vehicle, including a housing having at least one opening through which a fluid may flow; a float disposed to move in the housing; and a first magnet integrated with the float; wherein the first magnet is functionally connected to a first non-contact sensor integrated into the housing; and wherein the float carries out a translational motion relative to the housing when fluid flows into or out of the at least one opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Applicant: PIERBURG GMBH
    Inventors: Frank Burger, Norbert Ludwig
  • Publication number: 20030184444
    Abstract: An alarm detection device for monitoring high level signal in a wet well. The alarm detection device includes a fail safe circuit and an emulation circuit. The incoming high level signal is fed into the fail safe circuit and the emulation circuit. The emulated signal from the emulation circuit is fed to an output to a control panel and an alarm system. If there is any problem with the alarm detection device, the fail safe circuit connects the incoming high level signal directly with the output to the control panel and a high impedance signal is generated for the alarm system. The alarm detection device is powered independently from the control panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: John K. Collings
  • Publication number: 20030159507
    Abstract: An in-tank fuel level sender (26) for signaling the level of liquid fuel in a motor vehicle fuel tank (22). An enclosure (31) forming a hub of the sender provides an interior that is sealed against intrusion of fuel. An actuator (110, 122) is positionable on an exterior of the enclosure in correlation with liquid fuel level. A movement (52) within the interior of the enclosure follows the positioning of the actuator. An electric circuit element (62; 86) within the interior of the enclosure is operated by the movement to provide an electric characteristic for transmission through the enclosure to signal the liquid fuel level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventors: Rudolph Bergsma, Gary D. Cochran
  • Patent number: 6591676
    Abstract: A liquid level detection device (10), particularly for submersed pumps, characterized in that it comprises means (13, 14) for detecting variation of electric and/or magnetic field in relation to the variation of the level of the liquid; the means are associated with a controller (16) for switching on and off a submersed pump (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Askoll Holding S.r.l.
    Inventor: Elio Marioni
  • Publication number: 20030101811
    Abstract: A liquid level measuring device for measuring the level of liquid in a storage or dispensing tank has an elongated tubular hollow body that carries a threaded coupler adapted for engaging a threaded nipple on top of the tank. A buoyant float is attached to a lower portion of the elongated body. The body slides in relation to the coupler while the coupler remains stationary in relation to the tank. As the liquid is dispensed from the tank, the buoyant float that was positioned on the surface of the liquid in the tank, lowers in relation to the tank, moving the elongated body into the tank. Measuring indicia placed en the exterior surface of the elongated body allows visual observation of the changing level of liquid in the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventor: Bill Philbeck
  • Publication number: 20030094044
    Abstract: A liquid level indicator for an oil-filled transformer, power choke or tap changer in which a sensor part has a float which rises and falls with the oil level and rotates a sensor shaft and the sensor shaft is coupled to an indicator shaft on which a pointer is provided to cooperate with a dial. The gauge also includes a contactless angle encoder operating with a magnetic hub and coupled to the indicator shaft for outputting a signal representing the oil level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Applicant: Messko Albert Hauser GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Werner Kruger, Karsten Viereck