Vertically Reciprocable Patents (Class 340/624)
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Patent number: 4736077Abstract: A low oil cut off switch is provided and consists of a dual magnetic switch within a housing that is adjustably and slideably mounted to transparent tube of a rising stem fuel indicating gauge of a fuel storage tank. The dual magnetic switch which when attached by a magnetic fuel level indicating element within the fuel indicating gauge will first actuate an alarm to indicate a low fuel level in the storage tank and if undetected will next shut off fuel burner operation before the storage tank runs dry.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 1987Date of Patent: April 5, 1988Inventor: George Valente
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Patent number: 4728941Abstract: An apparatus for sensing the difference between a polar fluid and a non-polar fluid includes a control assembly, a probe assembly and a conduit electrically coupling the probe assembly to the control assembly at a remote location thereto. The probe assembly includes a float, at least one fluid sensor mounted beneath the float, a fluid sensor circuit for providing a signal indicative of the polar characteristics of the fluid, and a logic circuit having a first state when the signal indicates a polar fluid and a second state when the signal indicates a non-polar fluid. The control assembly includes cicuitry responsive to the state of the logic circuit for controlling alarms, visual indicators, and machine operations. The probe assembly may also include a detector for detecting the state of the fluid. If the fluid has a non-liquid state then the logic circuit has a third state which indicates the non-liquid state of the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 1985Date of Patent: March 1, 1988Assignee: Emhart Industries, Inc.Inventor: Raymond J. Andrejasich
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Patent number: 4696261Abstract: In order to accurately detect the coolant level in the coolant jacket of a cylinder head, a separate chamber member is mounted to the cylinder head and fluidly communicated with the coolant jacket of the cylinder head in a manner to contain therein the coolant by the same level as that in the coolant jacket, and a level sensor is mounted to the chamber member to detect the level of coolant contained in the chamber member.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1986Date of Patent: September 29, 1987Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yoshimasa Hayashi
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Patent number: 4680575Abstract: In a liquid level detecting device for fuel or oil in a small size boat, a liquid level detecting switch turned on and off in accordance with a vertical movement of a float provided in a tank and a liquid level warning device are connected in series to a power supply circuit from a generator of an engine.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1984Date of Patent: July 14, 1987Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Mitsuhiro Yazaki
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Patent number: 4649898Abstract: Apparatus is provided for controlling the level of steam condensate in a steam retort wherein sealed cans of food are exposed to incoming steam. The apparatus comprises a pneumatically actuated condensate drain valve which is controlled by a solenoid valve and opens to drain condensate if it reaches a dangerously high level, an alarm to indicate when the high level is reached, a recorder to provide a continuous permanent record of condensate level and drain valve status, and an electric control system for sensing condensate level and operating the solenoid valve, the alarm and the recorder in accordance therewith. The electric control system includes a condensate level sensor in the form of a one or more float-operated magnetically-responsive reed switches mounted in the retort. The sensor comprises a hollow stem in which a reed switch is potted in elastomeric non-displaceable material.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 1984Date of Patent: March 17, 1987Assignee: Martinson Monitors Inc.Inventor: Edward D. Martinson
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Patent number: 4647740Abstract: An improved refrigerant float switch assembly includes a float chamber adapted for mounting in fluid communication with a refrigeration system, and a proximity switch assembly mounted adjacent the float chamber and having a tubular extension of the float chamber positioned therein. Improvements in the float chamber include the use of a baffle adjacent and inlet port thereof, and a float impact damper positioned inwardly adjacent the connection between the float chamber and tubular extension thereof. Improvements in the proximity switch portion of the refrigerant float switch assembly include a switch mechanism having an activating arm mounted directly thereon with the actuation of the switch being positioned internally of the assembly between the switch housing and the actuation arm therefore. In a second embodiment of the invention, a plurality of proximity switches are mounted on the switch assembly in spaced relation along the tubular extension of the float chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 1985Date of Patent: March 3, 1987Assignee: Hansen Technologies Corp.Inventors: Charles C. Hansen, III, John A. Yencho
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Patent number: 4644332Abstract: A dry lube level sensor for use in a verbal annunciation system for monitoring a wire fabrication process comprises a sealed float tube having a magnetic float for actuating a reed switch within an adapter which connects the float tube to a mounting base for providing a low level signal to the alarm system.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1985Date of Patent: February 17, 1987Assignee: Essex Group, Inc.Inventor: Randall C. Graham
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Patent number: 4638663Abstract: A level indicating device for liquid filled containers is provided having a floating sensing element which is operatively connected with a signal device, the sensing element having several, preferably three floats arranged on a single plane. The floats are supported on lever arms which are interconnected with each other at a central union. The lever arm union is supported for free movement in a guide disposed approximately in the center of the container and approximately vertically aligned with the surface of the liquid when the liquid is at rest. The longitudinal movement of the lever arm union in the guide caused by changing liquid levels is transmitted to a signal device for monitoring the liquid level.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 1985Date of Patent: January 27, 1987Assignee: Firma Riesselmann & SohnInventor: Gottfried Seelhorst
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Patent number: 4637254Abstract: This invention pertains to gauge apparatus for measuring liquid levels comprising an elongated electrical sensor adapted to be arranged in upright position while immersed so constructed as to have an electrical resistance which may be varied. A spherical float is magnetically attracted to the sensor for rolling movement with respect thereto for varying the resistance in response to variation in elevation of float caused by changes in the level of the liquid. The resistance is measured thereby to provide an indication of such level. The magnetic attraction holds the float and sensor in operative engagement at all times including those during which the float changes height in response to changes in the level of the liquid being measured. The presence of different liquid is also detected in a given vessel, such as gasoline and water, and an indication and alarm of vessel overfill during a filling operation is provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 1984Date of Patent: January 20, 1987Assignee: Tokheim CorporationInventors: Jerry F. Dyben, Stanley S. Wulc
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Patent number: 4633673Abstract: An object of this invention is to provide an emergency drain for units such as air conditioners and the like, operative to collect fluid and shut off the unit when the primary drain for the unit becomes obstructed, thus protecting against damage due to overflow of the fluid, and wherein a low pressure is produced in the drain for evacuating fluid from the drain pan of the unit. Another object is to provide a one-way valve in the drain from an air conditioner or other appliance, whereby reverse flow of air or other fluid from the drain to the unit is prevented. The emergency drain comprises a fitting (11) mounted in the drain pan (14), with a primary drain opening (16) and a secondary or emergency drain opening (17) for draining away fluid accumulated in the pan when the primary drain becomes blocked.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 1985Date of Patent: January 6, 1987Inventors: Daniel R. Morrison, Ross J. Petrie, Kenneth D. Savage
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Patent number: 4631375Abstract: An improved low liquid level float control apparatus particularly adapted for use in vessels or tanks containing a fluid of the type utilized in liquid vending machines is disclosed. An electronic control unit has a probe section extending downwardly therefrom containing a reed switch, which is activated by the passage of a first magnet located in the lower portion of a float vertically along the probe section. A second magnet is secured along the upper portion of the float. Metal stops are provided along the probe section to determine the range and movement of the float and to effect a time delay, thus reducing the possibility of intermittent on-off operation of associated pump elements.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1984Date of Patent: December 23, 1986Assignee: McCann's Engineering & Manufacturing CompanyInventor: Gerald McCann
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Patent number: 4628162Abstract: The present invention is related to an electric switch comprising a magnet and a reed contact which is actuatable by the magnetic force of the magnet. The reed contact is shielded relative to the magnetic field of the magnet by means of a bell of magnetic field absorbing material which is furnished with an opening in the switching range of the reed contact to permit switch actuation. Exact switching points at the reed contacts are achieved by this arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 1985Date of Patent: December 9, 1986Assignee: Alfred Teves GmbHInventors: Hans-Dieter Reinartz, Helmut Steffes
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Patent number: 4627283Abstract: A fuel level detector for an automobile fuel tank comprises a strut vertically provided within a fuel tank, a float slidably fitted around the strut and having a permanent magnet therein, a plurality of magnetic induction type reed switches slantedly disposed along the strut with a adequate distance between the adjacent reed switches, the length of which distance being defined such that the permanent magnet of the float always actuates two adjacent reed switches simultaneously, a plurality of resistances respectively connected to the plurality of reed switches for changing current value according to the reed switches which are actuated, a residual quantity warning means having an element of a luminous body which is connected between a ground and a predetermined reed switch among the plurality of reed switches, and a distance retention mechanism for keeping constant a distance between the predetermined reed switch and the bottom surface of the fuel tank and having a guide mounted to a base member for verticallType: GrantFiled: October 28, 1985Date of Patent: December 9, 1986Assignee: Tsuchiya Co., Ltd.Inventors: Katsuhiko Nishida, Tokio Naruse, Hiroshi Shibata
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Patent number: 4617806Abstract: A liquid level control apparatus which detects a liquid level in a tank employed, for example, in ice making equipment, to thereby trigger a control operation. The level control apparatus comprises a tank containing a body of liquid, a float movable in response to the vertical movement of the surface of liquid within the tank, a hollow case having a closed top and an open bottom, and a guide member disposed within the case for guiding the vertical movement of the float. The hollow case is arranged so that the open bottom thereof is closed by the rising liquid to thereby from a hermetically closed chamber within the case. An upstanding tubular member extends into the hollow case such that the lower end of the tube defines a level of liquid at which the hermetically closed chamber is formed. The chamber thus formed is effective for preventing the guide member from being immersed in the liquid to assure smooth movement of the float.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 1985Date of Patent: October 21, 1986Assignee: Hoshizaki Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tadashi Sakai, Nobutaka Naruse
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Patent number: 4609796Abstract: A float operated liquid level sensing switch for horizontal mounting in the sidewall of a container is disclosed. The switch can be inserted into an aperture in the sidewall regardless of its circumferential orientation with full assurance that its float is properly oriented to perform the level sensing function. The float is tubular and contains a weighting means which orients the float to a unique circumferential orientation. This positions a magnet on the float to a unique operating range. A reed switch is contained horizontally within a body portion of the switch and is surrounded by the float. The magnet is disposed to operate in a vertical plane relative to the reed switch and when the level drops to a certain level, the float similarly drops causing the magnet to activate the reed switch. In order to attain overlying relationship of the magnet to the reed switch, a pendulum weight is also included on the float diametrically opposite the magnet.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1985Date of Patent: September 2, 1986Assignee: Hi-Stat Michigan Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventor: Rudolph Bergsma
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Patent number: 4604610Abstract: A swimming pool alarm has a hydrophone located well below the surface of the pool and spaced from its walls, the hydrophone being associated with a captive sensor element which responds to vertical wave motion of the pool water at levels well below the surface by impacting the hydrophone transducer. The hydrophone is associated with an amplifier and peak detector, elevation of the detector output above a set threshold triggering an alarm either responsive to high level audio signals reaching the hydrophone, or to deep water disturbance within the pool.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1985Date of Patent: August 5, 1986Assignee: Nathan I. HennickInventors: Robert W. Baker, Dean Donely, Vlado Odorcic
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Patent number: 4602250Abstract: This tank leakage detection system senses at an early stage the failure of a liner membrane made of a non-corroding material such as lead which allows the escape of a corrosive liquid contained within the tank to the space between the liner membrane and the outer steel walls of the tank. The detection system is made up of a small reservoir located on the bottom of the main tank which is in fluid communication with the space in the main tank between the outer steel walls and the liner membrane. The small reservoir extends laterally beyond one side of the tank and has a tubular projection extending upwardly along the side of the main tank which contains a float which is in turn connected via a linkage to a switch which controls an alarm system.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1985Date of Patent: July 22, 1986Inventor: Edward R. Peace
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Patent number: 4591837Abstract: Apparatus for warning of a leak in a hydraulic system. The warning apparatus includes a liquid level sensor, mounted above the hydraulic fluid reservoir, and a signal assembly. The sensor includes an expansion chamber with a float chamber pipe inside. The float chamber pipe opens into the expansion chamber a substantial distance above the expansion chamber bottom. Hydraulic fluid, which expands when the equipment is started, flows through the open pipe end and into the expansion chamber. If the liquid level in the float chamber pipe drops below a set level, a float in the pipe also drops to activate the signal assembly. If the hydraulic system springs a leak, the alarm activates to minimize damage. Before re-starting the equipment the excess fluid held in the expansion chamber is allowed to drain back into the reservoir. Drainback is done either passively, through a constricting passageway at the expansion chamber bottom, or actively, typically by the operator after use.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1984Date of Patent: May 27, 1986Inventor: Donald G. Martinez
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Patent number: 4586033Abstract: An apparatus for sensing the difference between a polar fluid and a non-polar fluid includes a control assembly, a probe assembly and a conduit electrically coupling the probe assembly to the control assembly at a remote location thereto. The probe assembly includes a float, at least one fluid sensor mounted beneath the float, a fluid sensor circuit for providing a signal indicative of the polar characteristics of the fluid, and a logic circuit having a first state when the signal indicates a polar fluid and a second state when the signal indicates a non-polar fluid. The control assembly includes circuitry responsive to the state of the logic circuit for controlling alarms, visual indicators, and machine operations. The probe assembly may also include a detector for detecting the state of the fluid. If the fluid has a non-liquid state then the logic circuit has a third state which indicates the non-liquid state of the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 1984Date of Patent: April 29, 1986Assignee: Emhart Industries, Inc.Inventor: Raymond J. Andrejasich
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Patent number: 4577181Abstract: An alarm system for an electric range which detects when a burner is energized without a utensil in place on the burner wherein the sensing means comprises an electrical switch mounted below the stovetop having a first switch position and a second switch position, a pin slidably passing through an opening in the stovetop beneath the rim of the dish under the heating element in contact with the underside of the rim and biased against the rim with a pressure sufficient to lift the rim from the stovetop when no utensil is present on the heating element, but insufficient to lift the rim when a utensil is in place on the heating element; and means connecting said pin with the switch to operate the switch between first and second positions corresponding to the position of the pin when a utensil is present or absent from the heating element.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 1985Date of Patent: March 18, 1986Inventors: Bernard Lipscher, Kevin G. Coleman
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Patent number: 4571998Abstract: An in-ground tank measuring system for monitoring the level of fuel in a plurality of tanks. A float is provided in each tank connected by cable to a biased take-up reel connected to a potentiometer. A palm-sized monitor with provision to switch from one potentiometer has a switch to select the tank to be monitored, supply the reference voltage, receive the wiper voltage, and produce a liquid crystal digital display of fuel level.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 1984Date of Patent: February 25, 1986Inventor: Kevin Stegner
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Patent number: 4549171Abstract: Oil floating on the surface of a body of water can be detected by the floating sensor of this invention which comprises a float having a central opening vertically therethrough and containing an electrical sensor, the lead wire connected to the sensor extending downwardly through the opening, forming a U-bend and extending upwardly through the opening to alarm means. A weight at the U-bend provides for automatic height adjustment of the detector as the surface of the body of water raises or lowers.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 1984Date of Patent: October 22, 1985Assignee: Junkosha Company Ltd.Inventors: Juji Akiba, Satoru Kobayashi, Hiroyuki Sugibuchi
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Patent number: 4524801Abstract: A device for the selection, metering and delivery of treatment liquids for industrial laundry washers comprising a plurality of pumping units without positive displacement of pumping members. The pumping action is performed by a correlated combination of applications of pressure and vacuum on columns of the liquid that must be pumped. The delivery or pumping rate may be adjusted by setting on each pumping unit the quantity of the displaced material by sensing the displaced volume.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1982Date of Patent: June 25, 1985Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive CompanyInventors: Enrico Magnasco, Giorgio Viale
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Patent number: 4483192Abstract: A water level indicator for a pressure vessel is provided which employs a plurality of vertically spaced cantilevered mounted spring members. The free end of each spring member is connected to a depending float member. The float member has sufficient mass and density to depress its spring member when the float member is in a gaseous medium. The float member has sufficient buoyancy to elevate its spring member when the float member is in a water medium. One or more strain gauges is secured to each spring member to indicate the instantaneous position of the spring member and thereby provide an indication of the instantaneous water level.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 1982Date of Patent: November 20, 1984Inventor: William J. Wachter
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Patent number: 4473730Abstract: The invention relates to a liquid level detection switch which is provided in a casing with a plurality of terminals having fixed contacts and a signal-outputting portion and with a float having a movable contact to contact with the fixed contacts moving vertically within the casing so that the movable contact contacts or separates from the fixed contacts as the float moves vertically.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1982Date of Patent: September 25, 1984Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yuichi Ida
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Patent number: 4459584Abstract: An automatic liquid level indicator and alarm system (10) that automatically emits an alarm when liquid in a vessel reaches a preselected low or high level. The system (10) is particularly adaptable for use on petroleum storage tanks (50) of the type found on petroleum tank farms. The system (1) comprises a low-level and a high-level permanent magnet (10) (11); a low-level and a high-level magnetic sensor (24) (25); an encoder-RF transmitter (15) (16); an RF receiver-decoder (18) (19); an alpha-numeric display (20) and an audible alarm (21). The magnets (10) (11) are attached to an existing movable tape (31) whose position at any instant is relative to the position of a float (41) within the tank (50). The magnets (10) (11) are located at positions indicative of the preselected low or high level marks.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1981Date of Patent: July 10, 1984Inventor: Marvin R. Clarkson
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Patent number: 4447743Abstract: A liquid level monitor for tracking the level of a coal slurry in a high-pressure vessel including a toroidal-shaped float with magnetically permeable bands thereon disposed within the vessel, two pairs of magnetic field generators and detectors disposed outside the vessel adjacent the top and bottom thereof and magnetically coupled to the magnetically permeable bands on the float, and signal processing circuitry for combining signals from the top and bottom detectors for generating a monotonically increasing analog control signal which is a function of liquid level. The control signal may be utilized to operate high-pressure control valves associated with processes in which the high-pressure vessel is used.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1982Date of Patent: May 8, 1984Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventors: Vern E. Bean, Frederick G. Long
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Patent number: 4444052Abstract: Compensating brake fluid reservoirs with a brake fluid alarm device are required for master cylinders of hydraulic brake systems in automotive vehicles. A float chamber, which is disposed in a compensating reservoir and surrounds a float, is defined by a tubular body suspended from an upper end of the reservoir and a bottom element. After insertion of both parts into the reservoir the bottom element cooperates with the lower end of the tubular body such that the float chamber is closed at least to such an extent that the inflow and outflow of the fluid therefrom is inhibited in order to achieve a damping effect. This enables a quick immersion of both parts into the filled reservoir without brake fluid leaking from the reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 1983Date of Patent: April 24, 1984Assignee: ITT Industries, Inc.Inventors: Hans-Dieter Reinartz, Waldemar Vatter, Peter Hinze
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Patent number: 4418712Abstract: An overflow control system for use with home appliances such as washing machines, incorporating conventional stand pipe which receives the outlet conduit from the appliance, the stand pipe being provided with an attachment having a displacement, conductivity or a pressure sensor installed for sensing the height of liquids in the stand pipe. This stand pipe may be vertically connected to the sewage line outlet found in a home and the signals from the sensors may be used to shut off the power to the appliance and to excite an alarm. Connected in parallel with the sensors may be a moisture sensor deployed under the appliance which again shuts the power off whenever the machine is inadvertently filled beyond its limits or when leakage occurs.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1981Date of Patent: December 6, 1983Inventor: Charles A. Braley
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Patent number: 4417671Abstract: An automatic vending machine having a control circuit for controlling the quantity of ice in an ice storage chamber. A signal generating circuit is provided for producing digital signals in response to ice being supplied to, and discharged from, the ice storage chamber. A counting circuit comprising an up-down counter receives the digital signals and adjusts a count value which represents the quantity of ice in the storage chamber. The counter produces an output signal when sufficient ice is available to supply vending needs, but not when the ice quantity falls below a predetermined value. The vending operation is suspended when the counter output signal is not produced.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1981Date of Patent: November 29, 1983Assignee: Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kikuo Kawasaki, Kazuo Yoshida, Nobuo Nonoyama, Toshibumi Yamaguchi, Toshio Hasegawa, Jitsuo Okamura
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Patent number: 4404441Abstract: A fluid level sensitive switching device is disclosed that utilizes a lost motion type action to increase the available fluid drawdown and cycle level of the switching device.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 1982Date of Patent: September 13, 1983Inventor: David S. MacLaren
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Patent number: 4386337Abstract: A sensor for detection of the presence of a predetermined level of fluid in an enclosed reservoir, e.g., oil in an engine crankcase or transmission fluid reservoir, and a system for providing a remote indication of the detection of the existence of the predetermined level. The apparatus includes an electrically conductive float disposed within an encapsulator and movable responsive to the liquid level to provide an indication thereof.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1980Date of Patent: May 31, 1983Inventor: John M. Todd
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Patent number: 4384184Abstract: A liquid level registering device in a tank of liquid includes a non-magnetic tube surrounded by a movable magnetic float. The tube contains a dielectric oil and reed switches which are fixed at different levels. When the level of liquid carries the magnetic float to the same vertical level as a particular switch, that switch changes its state.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1981Date of Patent: May 17, 1983Assignee: Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Technologia of MexicoInventor: Fernando D. Q. Alvarez
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Patent number: 4380243Abstract: An overflow control system for use with home appliances such as washing machines, incorporating conventional stand pipe which receives the outlet conduit from the appliance, the stand pipe being provided with an attachment having a displacement, conductivity or a pressure sensor installed for sensing the height of liquids in the stand pipe. This stand pipe may be vertically connected to the sewage line outlet found in a home and the signals from the sensors may be used to shut off the power to the appliance and to excite an alarm. Connected in parallel with the sensors may be a moisture sensor deployed under the appliance which again shuts the power off whenever the machine is inadvertently filled beyond its limits or when leakage occurs.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1980Date of Patent: April 19, 1983Inventor: Charles A. Braley
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Patent number: 4361835Abstract: A liquid level detector "stick" includes a column of Hall-cells adapted to be mounted vertically in a liquid's containing tank. One or more toroidal magnets are slidably fitted about the stick. A float elevates the topmost magnet to the level of liquids in the tank. If the liquids comprise two immiscible parts, a second of the magnets may be floated at the surface of the denser liquid part. A very low power electronic system continuously scans the Hall-cells and determines which particular one or ones of them are adjacent a magnet. This detector may be used in a gasoline station storage tank that may also contain water, providing accurate measure of both liquids. It is also capable of operating in a monitor mode for sounding an alarm when a change in the level of either liquid part occurs that may indicate leakage into or from the tank or an attempted theft.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1981Date of Patent: November 30, 1982Assignee: Sprague Electric CompanyInventor: Bela G. Nagy
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Patent number: 4357892Abstract: Apparatus for warning of the increase in draught of a floating article, especially a small boat, in a surrounding liquid. The apparatus includes a signal emitter and a source of current which are connected, via a relay and a switch, to a release unit. The release unit includes a chamber fixedly arranged relative to the article which communicates with the surrounding liquid. The chamber holds a contact device which is adapted to close an electrical circuit when the liquid has risen to a certain level in the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1980Date of Patent: November 9, 1982Inventors: Gunnar Sveinsbo, Jan E. Gismervik
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Patent number: 4337657Abstract: An oil level indicator for use on a motor vehicle having a tube open at the vehicle oil pan. An elongated stiff oil gauging wire is slidably mounted in the tube. The wire carries a float at its lower end and extends at its upper end into a stationary housing mounted on the vehicle. The housing pivotally mounts a lever connected to a stiff wire and to the slidable contactor of a variable resistance member in the housing. The variable resistance member is connected to a battery and to a guage mounted at the dashboard of the motor vehicle to indicate the oil level in the oil pan.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1980Date of Patent: July 6, 1982Inventor: Benny G. Morris
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Patent number: 4329550Abstract: A low liquid level float control apparatus particularly adapted for use in vessels or tanks containing a fluid of the type utilized in liquid vending machines is disclosed. An electronic control unit has a probe section extending downwardly therefrom containing a reed switch, which is activated by the passage of an annular magnet vertically along the probe section. A second magnet is secured about the lower most portion of the probe section and is adjustable along the probe section thereby increasing the switch delay time, thus reducing the possibility of intermittent on-off operation of associated pump elements.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1980Date of Patent: May 11, 1982Assignee: McCann's Engineering & Manufacturing CompanyInventor: Donald Verley
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Patent number: 4321590Abstract: In combination with a fluid reservoir in which a magnetically operable switch is assembled to be closed by magnetic force of a permanent magnet on a float such that a warning signal is issued when the float moves down to a lower warning position dependent on a minimum fluid level in the reservoir, a check mechanism includes a spring loaded vertical rod extending into the interior of the reservoir from the exterior and arranged to be engaged at its lower end with the float when the surface of fluid is maintained at a predetermined level. When the vertical rod is pushed downward, the float is forcibly moved down to the lower warning position to check malfunction of the switch.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 1980Date of Patent: March 23, 1982Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masakazu Ishikawa, Harumi Ohori, Takashi Kiriyama
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Patent number: 4320394Abstract: A fiber optics level sensor (FOLS) or flow sensor (FOFS) system for use in hazardous environments, process control, and industrial and environmental control applications. The system includes a pair of fiber optic bundles arranged between a remote sensor and a control module. The remote sensor detects the position of a movable vane--which is mechanically coupled to a float in the sensed environment--by means of a transmission gap between confronting ends of the pair of fiber optic bundles. The control module includes a light output device driven by an oscillator which thereby generates pulses of light which are optically coupled to the end of one of the bundles. The end of the other bundle is coupled to a photodetector which generates electrical pulses in response to the returning light pulses. The electrical pulses are amplified and then gated through a sampling circuit which is internally synchronized by means of and in resonse to the oscillator.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1979Date of Patent: March 16, 1982Assignee: International Telephone and Telegraph CorporationInventor: Robert S. John, Jr.
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Patent number: 4318078Abstract: The brake fluid reservoir warning arrangement responds when the fluid level drops below a predetermined minimum level and includes two contact pins and a contact disc arranged on a float to electrically connect the contact pins when the fluid level is below the minimum level. Checking arrangements to check the warning arrangement are disclosed which include manual swivelling or axially displacing the contact pins to make an electrical connection with the contact disc, or the contact carrier includes an opening accessible to both contact pins receiving a metal part to electrically connect the two contact pins together.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1980Date of Patent: March 2, 1982Assignee: ITT Industries, Inc.Inventors: Hans-Dieter Reinartz, Horst Quitmann
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Patent number: 4300131Abstract: An alarm for indicating a lack of liquid in an ultrasonic nebulizer is disclosed. The alarm is responsive to a level sensing device in the nebulizer used to terminate oscillation in response to a low liquid level situation.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1979Date of Patent: November 10, 1981Assignee: TDK Electronics Co, Ltd.Inventors: Sadao Mitsui, Minoru Takahashi, Keiichi Watanabe
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Patent number: 4297543Abstract: A safety switch assembly for use in filling a gasoline products tanker and having a body portion and a gasoline level sensing portion. A channel (part-circular in plan) in the body portion fits over the rim of the filler opening of the tanker to enable the rim to actuate a first electrical switch contained in the body portion. The sensing portion projects into the filler opening and includes a reed relay and a float carrying a magnet to actuate the reed relay. The first electrical switch is a double pole microswitch having one pole normally open and the other pole normally closed. The normally open pole is connected to delivery apparatus to prevent delivery unless the rim actuates the microswitch. The normally closed pole is in parallel with the reed relay which has its contacts closed when the float is unactuated. When the gasoline level nears the top of the container the float rises to de-actuate the reed relay and disable the delivery system to prevent spillage.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1979Date of Patent: October 27, 1981Assignee: Total Oil Great Britain LimitedInventor: Barry Shackcloth
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Patent number: 4290059Abstract: The present invention provides an improvement by adaptation of a rising stem fuel oil gauge for indicating, at a remote location, the quantity of fuel in oil storage tanks commonly used in homes and businesses. The improvement includes a magnet carried on a horizontally positioned level indicating disc, which is attached to the upper end of a vertically rising stem and enclosed within a transparent tube. Markings on the tube correspond to the quantity of fuel oil within the storage tank and the alignment of the indicating disc with a specific marking indicates the fuel oil quantity at any given time. A magnetically actuated reed switch is mounted to the exterior of the tube at a predetermined position, and a power supply and remote alarm are coupled to the switch. When the level of the indicating disc is near the position at which the switch is mounted, the magnet carried on the disc actuates the switch which in turn actuates the remote alarm.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1980Date of Patent: September 15, 1981Inventors: Walter O. Noyes, John M. Helft
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Patent number: 4284904Abstract: The invention contemplates a unitary magnetically sensitive circuit element or network and a flexibly articulatable elongate assembly of a plurality of such elements or networks, with electrical interconnection of the same, such assembly being inherently suited to precision operation as a function of length, whatever the length selected for a particular application or use. In one application to liquid-depth indication within a tank, the longate assembly is merely inserted into the tube along which a float-borne permanent magnet is guided, and the magnetically sensitive element of each successive unit is actuated as the float tracks liquid level and is displaced from actuating relation with one and then to the next-adjacent one of the circuit-element units. The connection of circuit-element units is such that electrical-resistance observation from one end of the assembly provides a direct indication of the liquid level at which the float magnet is currently operative.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 1978Date of Patent: August 18, 1981Assignee: Transamerica DeLaval Inc.Inventor: Roland G. Tetro
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Patent number: 4255747Abstract: A battery operated sump well fluid level warning device is provided which is secured to the discharge line extending out of the sump well from a submersible sump pump. A first housing having a battery power source and a float actuated switch disposed therein is secured to the discharge line. A second housing having a light and an audible alarm secured thereto is detachably connected to the first housing by a pair of prongs adapted to be received in a socket on the first housing and thereby provide an electrical connection between the power source and float switch circuit in the first housing and the signal light and audible alarm of the second housing. Alternatively, an extension cord may be used to connect the first housing to the second housing so that the second housing can be remotely positioned from the first housing, thus enabling the warning signals to be better heard and seen.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1978Date of Patent: March 10, 1981Inventor: Roderick J. Bunia
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Patent number: 4244364Abstract: This combination device consists primarily of a stem with a pointed float with plate means at one end, which is freely received in an opaque walled sensing chamber, that removably receives a sensing plug, which is attached to an alerting device, for indicating the ceasing of flow, of intra-venous fluid to a patient. The pointed float also serves as a means, for easy insertion of the flow-meter stylus of the assembly, during insertion, into a bottle of intra-venous fluid. The sensing plug includes a pair of prongs, one of which, has a light emitting diode therein, and the other prong includes a photo-sensitive transistor, and the plate end of the float stem, when lowered between the prongs by low fluid level, will activate the circuitry of an alerting device.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1979Date of Patent: January 13, 1981Inventor: Harold Grushkin
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Patent number: 4227171Abstract: Liquid level sensing means comprising galvano-magneto effect transducing means, magnet means for applying magnetic flux to the transducing means, switching means movable with respect to the transducing means and having an influence on the magnetic flux applied from the magnetic means to the transducing means so that an electric signal is produced by the transducing means when the switching means has passed by the transducing means from one side to the other side thereof, one of the transducing means and the switching means being held stationary, and the other being movable in accordance with a change in liquid level.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1978Date of Patent: October 7, 1980Assignees: Denki Onkyo Co., Ltd., Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Noboru Masuda, Mitsuyuki Suzuki
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Patent number: 4217779Abstract: Liquid level sensing device comprising magnet received in the cylindrical portion of an oil reservoir cap, a signal generating electrical circuit, by which an oil level is indicated, including galvano-magneto effect transducing device attached to the magnet, magnetic device carried on a diaphragm of the oil reservoir and movable with respect to the transducing device, the magnetic device moving away from the transducing device when the diaphragm is lowered so that an electric signal is generated by the transducing device.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 1979Date of Patent: August 19, 1980Assignees: Denki Onkyo Co., Ltd., Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Noboru Masuda, Mitsuyuki Suzuki
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Patent number: 4187503Abstract: A sump alarm device adapted for mounting on a vertical pump shaft housing of a sump pump. The sump pump is disposed in a sump. The sump alarm device is activated when the water level in the sump rises above a predetermined level when the sump pump fails to operate due to loss of electrical power or a malfunction in the pump.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 1978Date of Patent: February 5, 1980Inventor: Robert G. Walton