Abstract: Disclosed herein is an invention directed to a system and method of use directed to a pivot irrigation control system utilizing cellular short messaging service (SMS) to communicate between the various elements of the system to provide status updates and controls of the elements within the system. In one embodiment, the pivot irrigation control system is comprised of a well controller element, at least one pump controller element, and an input/output element. The well controller element is communicatively coupled with the pump controller element(s) and the input/output element. In another embodiment, the controller element, the pump controller element(s), and the input/output element are all communicatively coupled with each other for the purpose of relaying the status of each element. In one embodiment the communicatively coupling is achieved through SMS communications between the elements.

Abstract: A method for detecting and isolation a leak in a hydraulic system having a supply pump serving at least one control valve is disclosed. In one embodiment, the control valve has multiple work sections. In step of the method, the hydraulic system is activated. In another step, an actuation command for at least one of the work sections is received, for example from a human-to-machine interface. Subsequently, the method may include generating a flow demand for the work sections for which an actuation command has been received. The method also includes the step of implementing at least one of a first, second, third, and fourth leak detection and isolation protocol to detect and isolate a leak between the pump and the control valve assembly, a leak between the reservoir and the control valve assembly and a leak between the at least one work circuit and the control valve assembly.

Abstract: A submersible well pump assembly include a rotary pump driven by an electrical motor. A seal section operably connects between the motor and the pump for reducing a pressure differential between motor oil in the motor and well fluid surrounding the pump assembly. The pump assembly contains a sealed fluid. A sensor mounted to the well pump assembly detects contamination of the sealed fluid by well fluid encroaching into contact with the sealed fluid. The sensor may be mounted in the motor or the seal section to detect well fluid contamination of motor oil. The sensor may be mounted in a secondary pump that has that has temporary barriers to block the entry of well fluid into a buffer fluid contained in the secondary pump while the secondary pump is in a storage condition within a well.

Abstract: Method and device for controlling a vacuum apparatus. A method for controlling a vacuum apparatus that applies vacuum to a vacuum accumulator with a pump of a pneumatically operated servo unit of a motor vehicle. The method comprises the steps of determining the pressure in the vacuum accumulator; determining the ambient pressure; adapting a pump control signal to the ambient pressure; comparing the pressure in the vacuum accumulator with an adapted pump control signal; and outputting a pump actuation signal that is a function of the comparison.

Abstract: A fan rotation speed control system for controlling rotation speed of a fan is provided. The system has: a fan rotation speed controller, coupled to the fan, for receiving a signal value to produce a driving voltage to the fan and detecting an actual rotation speed of the fan; and a master controller, coupled to the fan rotation speed controller, for providing the signal value and recalculating the signal value by comparing the actual rotation speed with a target rotation speed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of graphically indicating the performance of intensifier pumps used in water-jet cutting utilizes output signals from end-of-stroke proximity sensors to establish stroke times for the pump's plungers. The stroke times are then used to present bar graphs for each plunger reflecting the magnitude of the time valve by the height of the bars and performance status by the color of the bars.

Abstract: A disposable assembly for use with a sensor assembly comprises a body, a flow restricting element, and a fluid pressure membrane. The body has a lid portion and a base portion. The body defines a fluid flow passage that forms an inlet and an outlet. The flow restricting element is positioned in the fluid flow passage between the inlet and the outlet. The membrane is located between the lid and base portions along the fluid flow passage. A reinforcing structure, such as a ring or a rigid disk, is positioned between the fluid pressure membrane and the lid portion to provide increased resistance to pressure in the fluid flow passage. The ring or disk can be a separate component or formed on the membrane. The membrane thickness adjacent to sensor access openings in the lid portion can be increased for pressure resistance, too.

Abstract: A micropump with a deformable membrane, including: a first chamber, one wall of which includes a first deformable membrane portion and an actuator of the first membrane portion; a second chamber including a second deformable membrane portion and a third chamber, including a third deformable membrane portion, the second chamber and the third chamber being connected together through a first channel, at least one of the second and third chambers being connected through a second channel to the first chamber; each of the second chamber and third chamber including a mechanism forming a detection gauge, but not including an activation mechanism.

Abstract: A sensor assembly (51) for sensing one or more fluid properties of a fluid in a subsurface well (12) having a well fluid level (42W), a surface region (32) and a riser pipe (30) includes a sensor apparatus (52) and a pump assembly (54) that are positioned within the well (12). The sensor apparatus (52) includes a sensor (682) that senses one of the fluid properties. The pump assembly (54) can be positioned in an in-line manner relative to the sensor apparatus (52). The pump assembly (54) can be positioned between the sensor apparatus (52) and the surface region (32). Alternatively, the sensor apparatus (52) can be positioned between the pump assembly (54) and the surface region (32). In one embodiment, the sensor apparatus (52) is positioned above the well fluid level (42W). The pump assembly (54) can pump fluid toward the sensor apparatus (52) or the pump assembly (54) can pump fluid to draw more fluid to the sensor apparatus (52).

Abstract: The present invention refers to methods for controlling a double suction compressor for application in refrigeration systems, capable of meeting the different demands for cost, efficiency and control of temperatures by means of techniques of complexity levels and different configurations of the elements from the control loop (temperature sensors, actuators, controllers, etc.).

Abstract: A pump control system which detects a fluid condition in a pump is disclosed. The pump control system may include a control event based on the fluid condition in the pump. The pump control system may detect a fluid condition in the pump by monitoring the frequency response of the pump.

Abstract: One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed for increasing compressed air efficiency in a pump utilizes an air efficiency device in order to optimize the amount of a compressed air in a pump. The air efficiency device may allow for controlling the operation of the air operated diaphragm pump by reducing the flow of compressed air supplied to the pump as the pump moves between first and second diaphragm positions. A sensor may be used to monitor velocity of the diaphragm assemblies. In turn, full position feedback is possible so that the pump self-adjusts to determine the optimum, or close to optimum, turndown point of the diaphragm assemblies. As such, air savings is achieved by minimizing the amount of required compressed air.

Abstract: A compressed air conditioning apparatus (2) and a load control device (1) equipped therewith are proposed, the compressed air conditioning apparatus (2) comprising a switch-on valve (14) with 3/3-valve functionality. By means of the switch-on valve (14), an outlet passage (22) leading to a load device (A) can, among other aspects, be optionally supplied with compressed air or disconnected from the compressed air supply. By means of a pressure sensor (24) and/or a flow sensor (25), actual pressure and/or flow data can be recorded and compared to reference data previously stored in a teaching mode. As a function of the comparison result, an electric diagnostic signal can be generated, offering, among other aspects, the opportunity for monitoring leakage from the load device (A) or excessive air consumption.

Abstract: Rotation of a rotatable assembly of a medical pumping apparatus such as a pump rotor of a rotary peristaltic pump is monitored via electromagnetic radiation (e.g., infrared radiation). The rotatable assembly is formed such that it has portions that are reflective and non-reflective with respect to the electromagnetic radiation. A electromagnetic radiation emitter-detector pair is positioned such that as the rotatable assembly rotates, the reflective and non-reflective portions alternately pass through the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the emitter. The detector receives electromagnetic radiation reflected by the reflective portions, but the non-reflective portions absorb or disperse the radiation such that it is not received by the detector. An output circuit provides a signal indicating the position of the rotatable assembly as a function of the electromagnetic radiation received by the detector.

Abstract: Systems and methods of the invention relate to diagnosing a compressor. A method may include monitoring a crankcase pressure of a compressor, analyzing the monitored crankcase pressure, and identifying a condition of the compressor based on the analysis of the monitored crankcase pressure. A system is also disclosed including an engine, a compressor operatively connected to the engine, and a controller that is operable to identify a condition of the compressor.

Abstract: A machine for replacing used transmission fluid in a vehicle with new transmission fluid includes a frame having a housing. The machine includes a pair of service hoses that extend from the machine and connect to the vehicle's transmission fluid system for placing the machine in the fluid flow. A new fluid tank and a used fluid tank are provided. A pump and a manifold are associated with each of the tanks. The pumps provide for the selective withdraw or insertion of fluid into or out of the tanks. A display on the housing presents an operator of the machine with various tasks or options the machine can perform. A processor controls activation of the pumps and other electrical components based on inputs received by the display. Scales are provided under each tank for determining the amount of fluid going into and out of the tanks during the exchange process.

Abstract: A method for detecting and localizing a valve leak in a piston machine having a shaft includes: attaching one or more vibration sensor to a valve block of the piston machine; measuring the vibrations from at least one of the vibration sensors; attaching a sensor to the piston machine where the sensor is designed to produce, directly or indirectly, an angular shaft position signal for the shaft; determining, directly or indirectly, an angular shaft position signal for the shaft; transforming vibration signals from the one or more vibration sensors into one envelope signal representing an instant vibration level; using the angular position signal for constructing window functions that pick the envelope signal in selected angular shaft sectors; using the window functions to find sector based averages of the vibration level; and comparing said averages with a critical ambient vibration level to detect and localize leaks in one or two valves.

Abstract: A compressor apparatus notifies a user whether compressed-air reaches a specified pressure without requiring a pressure gauge or the costs associated therewith. The compressor apparatus includes a motor M, a rotational shaft 11, a compressor main body 10 comprising a cylinder chamber 15, and a detector 7 that notifies the user that the pressure of the compressed-air supplied from the above-mentioned cylinder chamber 15 exceeds a reference pressure P. The detector 7 includes a valve main body 30 having a valve flow channel 30A having an exhaust port 33 and a switch valve 34 releasing the valve flow channel 30A to exhaust the compressed-air supplied from the exhaust port 33 when the compressed-air pressure exceeds the reference pressure P; and a detective cap 31 pushed up by the exhaust air pressure from the exhaust port 33 from the normal position Y1 to the protruding position Y2.

Abstract: A method for actuating a pumping device with an optimal driving voltage, wherein the pumping device comprises a pumping chamber (4) having a pumping membrane (1), an inlet (3) and an outlet chamber (5), a voltage controlled actuator (6) connected to said pumping membrane (1), said pumping membrane reaching a stop position defined by a mechanical stop (2) a sensor for determining whether the pumping membrane has reached said mechanical stop (2); said method comprising a learning and working phase, wherein the learning phase comprises the following steps actuation of the pumping membrane (1) by applying a predetermined actuation voltage Vact to the actuator (6) said pumping membrane (1) reaching said position in an over-actuation step or not reaching said mechanical stop (2) position in an under-actuation process; after the over-actuation step, decreasing the voltage so that the pumping membrane (1) has left said mechanical stop (2) position and storing as the optimal voltage Vact optimal or in the under-actuat

Abstract: One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed for increasing compressed air efficiency in a pump utilizes an air efficiency device in order to optimize the amount of a compressed air in a pump. The air efficiency device may allow for controlling the operation of the air operated diaphragm pump by reducing the flow of compressed air supplied to the pump as the pump moves between first and second diaphragm positions. A sensor may be used to monitor velocity of the diaphragm assemblies. In turn, full position feedback is possible so that the pump self-adjusts to determine the optimum, or close to optimum, turndown point of the diaphragm assemblies. As such, air savings is achieved by minimizing the amount of required compressed air.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for monitoring and controlling a positive displacement pump using readings obtained from a plurality of pressure sensors. The pressure sensors may be mounted at the suction, discharge and interstage regions of the pump. Signals from the pressure sensors are compared to obtain a ratio that is used to predict whether a cavitation condition exists within the pump. The ratio can be compared to user provided limits to change an operating characteristic of the pump to reduce predicted cavitation. The pump may be stopped, or pump speed changed, when the ratio is less than a predetermined value. In some embodiments, historical information regarding the ratio may be used to obtain standard deviation information which may then be used to predict whether gas bubbles are passing through the pump. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Abstract: A pump motor assembly operable to provide driving power to a fluid pump includes a rotor, a stator, a case housing the rotor and the stator, and a control assembly mounted to the case and operable to control motor operation. The control assembly includes an information display and a cover overlying the display, with a window section in general alignment with the display. The control assembly also includes a filler plate underlying the window section to prevent any air gap along an underside thereof, allowing the display to be visible while reducing the risk of condensation buildup. The control assembly further includes a low voltage housing with the display disposed in a first compartment defined thereby, and a high voltage housing with a high voltage component disposed in a second compartment defined thereby.

Abstract: Some embodiments of an infusion pump system may include an illumination instrument that provides the user with an opportunity to illuminate and inspect a targeted location. The illumination instrument can be useful in situations where the ambient lighting is insufficient for the user's inspection needs (e.g., during the night, during presentation or movie in which the lighting is low, or the like). In some embodiments, illumination instrument can be employed to visually inspect one or more components of the pump system, the infusion set, or a combination thereof.

Abstract: Embodiments relate generally to a pump control system for a pressure sewer installation. The system comprises a controller arranged to control supply of power to a pump of the pressure sewer installation. The controller is arranged to receive an output signal from a sensor in a fluid reservoir of the pressure sewer installation, the output signal being indicative of a measured fluid level in the fluid reservoir. A memory is accessible to the controller and is arranged to store operation information pertaining to operation of the pressure sewer installation. A wireless transceiver is in communication with the controller to allow the controller to communicate with a remote server over a communications network.

Abstract: An air pump that measures an air pressure including a base, a one-way valve, a pump pipe, a piezometer, a scale plate, a cylinder, a piston, and a driving stem. The base has a chamber room. The one-way valve has an inlet chamber and a vent. The scale plate has an air-guiding hole so that a cylinder hole of the cylinder is communicated with the air-guiding hole. A piston is driven to pump gas in the cylinder hole, thereby forcing the gas to enter the inlet chamber, rendering the vent to deliver the gas unidirectionally, and allowing the scale plate to display an air pressure value.

Abstract: A disc pump system includes a pump body having a substantially cylindrical shape defining a cavity for containing a fluid, the cavity being formed by a side wall closed at both ends by substantially circular end walls, at least one of the end walls being a driven end wall. The system includes an actuator operatively associated with the driven end wall to cause an oscillatory motion of the driven end and an isolator is operatively associated with the peripheral portion of the driven end wall to reduce damping of the displacement oscillations. The isolator comprises a flexible material, which in turn includes an RFID tag.

Abstract: A disc pump system includes a pump body having a substantially cylindrical shape defining a cavity for containing a fluid, the cavity being formed by a side wall closed at both ends by substantially circular end walls, at least one of the end walls being a driven end wall. The system includes an actuator operatively associated with the driven end wall to cause an oscillatory motion of the driven end wall and an isolator is operatively associated with the peripheral portion of the driven end wall to reduce damping of the displacement oscillations. The isolator comprises a flexible printed circuit material that includes a strain gauge. The strain gauge measures data that may be used to determine the amount of pressure provided by the pump.

Abstract: A liquid metering pump includes an intake nozzle (2) provided with an intake valve (3) communicating with a working chamber (4) in which a piston (5) can be moved in an alternating translation movement, suction being produced, with the intake valve open, when the piston moves away from the nozzle, and delivery being produced, with the intake valve closed and liquid emerging through an outlet valve, when the piston moves towards the nozzle. The pump includes, between the intake valve (3) and the working chamber (4), a device (D) for detecting the variation in pressure, the device (D) including a duct (10), which is connected at one end to the working chamber (4) and is provided at its other end with the intake valve (3), and an element (11) which is sensitive to the pressure in the duct, the element (11) being mounted in the wall of the duct.

Abstract: A method of controlling a gear pump comprising two meshing gear wheels (11, 12), wherein the two gear wheels (11, 12) are driven via respective shafts (2, 3) each by a drive unit (7, 8). A current position of the one gear wheel (11, 12) is determined with respect to the current position of the other gear wheel (12, 11), and the current position of the one gear wheel (11, 12) is continuously adjusted with respect to the current position of the other gear wheel (12, 11) according to specified predefined operating conditions.

Abstract: A device for monitoring a pneumatically-actuated alternating linear displacement pump, and to a system for monitoring a pneumatically-actuated alternating linear displacement pump, which include elements for sensing pneumatic pressure, elements for transmitting a signal representative of the sensed pneumatic pressure, and elements for managing the pneumatically-actuated alternating linear displacement pump in accordance with the transmitted signal representative of the sensed pneumatic pressure.

Abstract: A method for increasing compressed air efficiency in a pump utilizes an air efficiency device in order to optimize the amount of a compressed air in a pump. The air efficiency device may allow for controlling the operation of the air operated diaphragm pump by reducing the flow of compressed air supplied to the pump as the pump moves between first and second diaphragm positions. A sensor may be used to monitor velocity of the diaphragm assemblies. In turn, full position feedback is possible so that the pump self adjusts to determine the optimum, or close to optimum, turndown point of the diaphragm assemblies. As such, air savings is achieved by minimizing the amount of required compressed air.

Abstract: A compressor includes at least one current sensor and processing circuitry in communication with the at least one current sensor. The processing circuitry declares a locked rotor condition when current drawn by the compressor is at least forty percent of peak locked rotor current.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for subsea pipeline servicing, including line-pack testing, physical integrity testing, recovery of damaged sections of pipelines, and product removal from subsea structures. In one embodiment of the invention, a subsea pipeline service skid is provided including at least one sample collection bladder affixed to the skid and in fluid communication with a skid mounted pump dimensioned to pull a sample from the subsea pipeline. In another embodiment, a product removal bladder is provided for removal of the hydrocarbons from a subsea structure.

Abstract: A compressor diagnostic device is provided and includes at least one of a temperature sensor and a current sensor. The current sensor measures a first current flow through a motor of a refrigerant compressor. The temperature sensor is disposed within and sensing a temperature of a measurement region of an electrical conductor that is configured to close and open to allow and prevent current flow to the motor, respectively. The compressor diagnostic device also includes a controller in communication with the at least one of the current sensor and the temperature sensor. The controller is operable to control the electrical conductor based on a comparison of a second current flow through the motor and a maximum current.

Abstract: A wear sensor system, compressors using the wear sensor system and methods of detecting wear on a bearing. The wear sensor system includes a stationary housing mounted circuit comprising a first inductor electrically connected to a voltage source and a rotating shaft-mounted circuit comprising a second inductor electrically connected to a capacitor. When there is no metal-to-metal contact between the shaft of the compressor and the housing into which the shaft is mounted, the housing-mounted circuit inductively charges the shaft-mounted capacitor and reduces a current level when the shaft mounted capacitor is charged. Likewise, when there is metal-to-metal contact between the shaft and the housing (which is indicative of bearing wear), the shaft-mounted circuit is grounded; this causes the housing-mounted circuit to increase the current level. This increased current level may be output to a suitable device for display or other indicia of bearing wear.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus having at least one hose roller pump, wherein the hose roller pump has at least one pump bed and at least one hose or hose part inserted or insertable into the pump bed, and having at least one pressure detection means which is arranged downstream of the hose roller pump and by means of which the time extent of the pressure of a fluid conveyed by means of the hose roller pump can be determined, and having at least one evaluation means by means of which the occlusion of the hose or hose part inserted or insertable into the pump bed can be monitored with reference to the time difference and/or to the angular difference between at least one maximum and at least one minimum of the determined time extent of the pressure and/or with reference to a local minimum of the determined time extent of the pressure. The invention furthermore in particular relates to a method therefor.

Abstract: A compressor protection method and system capable of continuously establishing compressor discharge temperature set points based on actual in-service conditions and detecting damaged compressor valves for a given cylinder at each stage of compression. The method and system utilize sensors configured to monitor process property parameters (e.g. temperature and pressure) at the inlet section and outlet section of a compressor stage. The sensors generate monitored signals corresponding to the process property parameters. The method and system utilize a controller configured to receive and process these monitored signals. The controller executes a control logic that uses the monitored signals to either estimate or calculate compressor valve pressure losses for determining internal cylinder pressures, which are used to calculate compressor discharge temperature set points.

Abstract: A system for automatically setting up a truck-mounted pump driven by an engine for pumping operation, comprising a transmission control having a visual indicator and coupled to a transmission of the truck, a pump control having a visual indicator and coupled to the pump, a prime control having a visual indicator and coupled to a prime pump, a master system control switch operable to receive operator input, and a main controller in data communication with the transmission control, pump control, prime control, and the master system control switch, the main controller receiving an input from the master system control switch to initiate pump setup operation, and automatically transmitting alert signals to the visual indicators of the transmission control, pump control, and prime control to provide visual guidance to the operator in the proper sequence of steps to set up the pump for pumping operation.

Abstract: System and method for dispensing product to a washing machine. A chemical dispensing system includes a system controller, machine interface, and pump controller that communicate through serial data buses. The system controller provides a user interface, retrieves washing machine status information from the machine interface, and issues product dispensing commands to the pump controller. The pump controller monitors pump status and dispenses product in response to commands from the system controller. The pump controller: (1) determines pump activation periods based on calibration data stored in a pump controller memory; (2) tracks pump usage and adjusts the activation period to compensate for pump wear as the pump ages; (3) disables the pump if conditions exists that preclude operating the pump; (4) monitors product levels, and (5) reports pump status to the system controller. Integral channels are included in the pump housing to provide stress relief to a squeeze tube.

Abstract: The fan has an arrangement for monitoring the ageing of at least one of its bearing, the arrangement including a reference ambient temperature sensor and a processing circuit for comparing the temperature difference between the temperature measured by the temperature sensor or by each temperature sensor fitted directly on the corresponding bearing and the temperature measured by the reference temperature sensor with a first predetermined value.

Abstract: The pulse pump is driven by an electric motor and gear reduction driving an eccentric rotor, which, in turn, oscillates a mechanism actuating a diaphragm to transfer fluid through one-way check valves. The pump may be used in a number of different applications, but is particularly useful in applying biodegradation material to consume grease and other biodegradable matter typically found in drainage systems of food processing facilities, converting such matter into carbon dioxide and water. The device includes a system for placing the mechanism in a neutral position when the pump is deactivated, to avoid causing the diaphragm to take a set toward either extreme of travel when parked for an extended time. One embodiment incorporates a multiple piece actuator assembly having a diaphragm sandwiched between components. Another embodiment uses a single piece actuator having a circumferential groove, with the diaphragm having a toxoid configuration and attaching within the groove.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of detecting water heater safety, wherein the water heater includes a blower and a combustor. The method includes starting the blower and detecting blower speed after a certain amount of time; comparing the blower speed with a first speed range, and then supplying gas to the combustor when the speed of the blower is within the first speed range, or providing an alarm when the blower speed is beyond the first speed range; detecting the speed of the blower again after the combustor heats water for a time; comparing blower speed with a second first speed range, and then supplying gas to the combustor when the blower speed is within the second speed range, or stopping gas when the blower speed is beyond the second speed range.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for a compressor including a crankcase. A condition of the compressor may be diagnosed based on a valve leak condition of the compressor based on piston motion within the crankcase. Once a diagnosis is made, appropriate remedial action can be taken to minimize severity.

Abstract: A pump chamber is connected to an outlet-side buffer chamber via an outlet channel, and pumps a liquid from the outlet-side buffer chamber. A pressure vibration generated within the pump chamber when the volume of the pump chamber is decreased includes various kinds of information relating to the operating states of the liquid feed pump, such as mixing of bubbles, pumping pressure, dissolved gas amount, and liquid feed amount. Thus, it is possible to detect the pressure vibration, thereby simply and easily detecting the various kinds of information relating to the operating states of the liquid feed pump.

Abstract: A compressor system is disclosed, comprising a first pump driven by a D/C motor, a second pump driven by an A/C motor, and a switch which allows a user to manually selectively engage of one of the D/C motor or A/C motor, including a gauge having a user settable shut-off mechanism which interrupts power to at least one of D/C or A/C motors. Also disclosed is a gauge configured to display system pressure independent of the user settable shut-off mechanism. A gauge having a rotatable bezel with a needle stop comprising a first needle rotatably coupled to a gauge shaft, and a second needle fixable coupled to the gauge shaft, and a spring disposed between the first and second needles, the spring configured to bias the first needle into the second needle so changes in pressure causes rotation of both is also disclosed.

Abstract: A load compressor includes an air inlet and an outlet, and a surge control valve positioned on the outlet. The surge control valve serves to selectively pass air to a downstream use, or to be dumped to atmosphere. A control for the compressor and the surge control valve is also included. The control is provided with a variable indicative of the operation of the load compressor, the variable being indicative of a movement to transient operation of the compressor. The control is provided with a low surge control limit for steady state operation. The control is also provided with a higher surge control limit, and switches to use of the higher surge control limit if the variable being monitored is seen to change beyond a particular threshold. The low and higher surge control limits are utilized to control the opening of the surge control valve. An aircraft air supply system and a method are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides an oil level or condition sensor featuring a housing and a baffle or plate arrangement arranged in the housing, where the baffle or plate arrangement forms a capacitor when the housing is filled with oil, the baffle or plate arrangement being responsive to a signal, for providing an oil level or condition sensor signal containing information about the level or condition of the oil in the housing. The baffle or plate arrangement may include one or more plates or a single or multiple star shaped baffles. The one or more plates or multiple star shaped baffles are spaced apart to form the capacitor. The level or condition of the oil within the baffle or plate arrangement changes the inductance. The single or multiple star shaped baffles each have a small hole in the center which provides a visual indication of the oil level. The housing has a transparent window. The inductance change can be measured and used to send alarms or warnings.

Abstract: A pumping device including a housing whose front face is at least partly formed by a block of transparent material, this block containing a number of machine-drilled holes including at least one blind hole forming a work chamber, at least one hole forming an admission and/or exhaust channel leading into the blind hole, two through channels whose orifices on the front face of the block are fitted with hydraulic hose connection means, two solenoid valves, a plunger sliding leaktightly in a bearing fitted to the orifice of the blind hole, this plunger defining with the blind hole a volume that varies as a function of the axial position of the plunger, and a module connected to the base of the plunger for moving the plunger translationally. The pumping device can be used for pipetting, dilution, rinsing and/or dispensing of samples, regardless of the envisaged volume ranges.

Abstract: A reciprocating pump system is utilized. The system facilitates the prediction of failure modes due to degradation of pump components. A sensor system is used to monitor parameters indicative of abnormal events or wear occurring in specific components, such as pump valves. The indications of wear can be used to predict valve failure or other component failure within the reciprocating pump.

Abstract: A hand air pump includes a connecting member having a barrel and an outlet port and a mouth, a receptacle having a cylinder engaged onto the barrel and having a slidable piston, the receptacle includes a channel for engaging with a cover plate which includes a longitudinal hole communicative with the mouth of the connecting member, and a gauge device includes a notch for receiving the receptacle and includes one or more latching members for retaining the gauge device to the receptacle and includes a connector engaged with the hole of the cover plate for receiving the pressurized air from the cylinder and for measuring an air pressure within the cylinder.