Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for anesthetic agent level sensing. In one embodiment, a system for a level sensor for an anesthetic vaporizer includes a measurement tube including a float positioned therein, a bottom portion of the measurement tube coupled to a cap having a central opening, a retaining bracket coupled to a top portion of the measurement tube, an optical sensor housed within the retaining bracket, the optical sensor including a light source positioned to emit light toward an interior of the measurement tube and a light detector positioned to receive light from the interior of the measurement tube, and an optical window housed within the retaining bracket and coupled between the optical sensor and the interior of the measurement tube.

Abstract: A water fullness alarm device may include an alarm switch, a bracket, and a float. The alarm switch may include an alarm switch body and a switch button disposed on the alarm switch body, where the switch button is adjacent to an elastic piece, and where a first end of the elastic piece is fixed on the alarm switch body and a second end of the elastic piece is free. The bracket may be rotatable, where a first end of the bracket is connected with the float, and where a second end of the bracket is propped against the elastic piece. The first end and the second end may be integrally formed such that the second end swings synchronously with the first end around an axis when the bracket rotates, where the second end drives the elastic piece to trigger the switch button when the bracket rotates.

Abstract: Disclosed is a toilet bowl water level gauge and associated methods. In one embodiment, the toilet bowl water level gauge comprises a gauge assembly having a stem with a float, and a sleeve, wherein the stem is inserted in the sleeve and slides through the sleeve. Also, the toilet bowl water level gauge comprises a support attached to the gauge assembly, the support being adapted to engage a rim of a toilet bowl. In addition, bowl level sensors are employed for automated calibration of an automated bowl fill system.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting phase separation in storage tanks is provided. At least one float has a density calibrated to detect a density differential among surrounding fluids. The float is buoyant on a relatively more dense lower layer of fluid such as phase separated fuel or pure water, while remaining submerged in a relatively less dense upper layer of fluid such as a gasoline/ethanol blend. A detection device sends a signal when the float rises or falls above or below a preset acceptable level.

Abstract: A fluid level measurement apparatus supports multiple fluid level sensors of different types, each of which detects a level of fluid and produces an output indicative of the detected fluid level in a different way. The fluid level measurement apparatus is connected to any one of the supported fluid level sensors to measure the fluid level. The fluid level measurement apparatus includes a calculation circuit, multiple output circuits, a determination circuit, and a selection circuit. The calculation circuit calculates the fluid level from a detection voltage. Each output circuit generates the detection voltage based on the output of a corresponding fluid level sensor. The determination circuit determines the connected fluid level sensor. The selection circuit selects the output circuit corresponding to the determined fluid level sensor and allows the calculation circuit to obtain the detection voltage generated by the selected output circuit.

Abstract: A measurement system for determining a liquid fill level of a tank, including a floating sensor configured to float on the surface of a liquid contained in the tank, at least three reference sensors mounted at a hull of the tank in a spatially fixed arrangement, and a control device to control the floating sensor and the reference sensors, wherein at least one of the floating sensor and the reference sensors can emit an acoustic signal to the remaining sensors, wherein the remaining sensors can receive the emitted acoustic signal, the control device configured to determine signal travelling times of the acoustic signal from the emitting sensor to the receiving sensor, to compute a spatial position of the floating sensor with reference to the reference sensors from the signal travelling times and to determine the liquid fill level on the basis of the computed spatial position of the floating sensor.

Abstract: A fuel system is disclosed. The fuel system includes a fuel tank having a chamber defined by a wall and an electrical circuit associated with the fuel tank. The electrical circuit includes means for determining an amount of fuel disposed within the fuel tank chamber. A portion of the electrical circuit includes a sensor for detecting whether or not the fuel line is properly connected to the fuel tank. A method for assembling a fuel system is also disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a phase separation float assembly, a phase separation detection system, and a method for detecting phase separation. One embodiment comprises a first float subassembly comprising a first float adapted for vertical travel along a fuel level probe shaft and a magnet. This embodiment also comprises a second float subassembly comprising a second float adapted for vertical travel along the shaft. The first float has a first density and the second float has a second density greater than the first density. The second float subassembly further comprises at least one stop feature which engages the first float subassembly when the first float subassembly travels vertically a predetermined distance along the fuel level probe shaft. The first float density is selected such that the first float subassembly travels vertically along the shaft to engage the at least one stop feature in the presence of phase separation.

Abstract: A retrofit assembly for installing a fuel quality sensor with a fuel level probe having a shaft extending through a tank interface into a fuel storage tank. The shaft, which comprises a magnetostrictive element extending therealong, is coupled with the fuel quality sensor. An isolation sheath is sized for receipt over the shaft and to extend between the fuel quality sensor and the tank interface. The sheath has a cross-sectional profile configured to define at least one passage between the sheath and the shaft when the sheath is received over the shaft. The passage(s) extend between a proximal end and a distal end of the sheath. Also provided is a product-level float comprising at least one product-level magnet for measuring the level of fuel in the fuel storage tank. The product-level float is configured to translate along the sheath with the level of fuel in the fuel storage tank.

Abstract: An air conditioning system condensate collection pan or water leak containment pan electrical control switch includes a housing or frame for supporting a switch unit which includes an elongated actuator arm. The housing includes a slot disposed adjacent a distal end of the actuator arm for receiving a water soluble tablet engageable with the actuator arm to bias the arm into a predetermined position of the switch. Abnormal accumulation of condensate or leaking water dissolves the tablet and allows the actuator arm to move to a position to effect actuation of the switch. The switch may be connected to a control unit, a thermostat and/or to an alarm generator including a self-contained unit having battery powered audio and/or visual alarm devices, an on-off switch and a circuit test switch.

Abstract: A method for preventing either the introduction of air into a liquid aspirated from a container through an aspiration line passing through a container cap, or the over-filling or non-filling of a container by a liquid dispensed through a dispensing line passing through a container cap. Such method comprises the steps of simultaneously detecting that (a) the container cap is properly positioned on and secured to a liquid container from which liquid is to be aspirated, or into which a liquid is to be dispensed, and (b) detecting that the level of liquid in the container is either above or below a predetermined level.

Abstract: A reservoir tank for a vehicle brake system has a tank body including upper and lower shells joined together along mating surfaces. A float and a fluid level sensor are mounted in a fluid level detecting chamber defined in the tank body. The float is fitted on a shaft of the fluid level sensor. A partition plate is fitted in the lower shell to restrict a flow of hydraulic fluid into and out of the fluid level detecting chamber. The partition plate is disposed near the top end of the shaft of the fluid level sensor to restrict the distance by which the float can move vertically. A filter, the fluid level sensor and the partition plate are all set in the lower shell. The filter and the partition plate having their top ends pressed against the bottom ends of partitioning walls of the upper shell. Thus, the filter and the partition wall are held in position in the tank body between the upper and lower shells.

Abstract: A level meter for measuring the fill level of a medium in a vessel, includes a reference container that can be connected to the vessel in a manner whereby the level in the reference container is identical to that in the vessel. The reference container is provided with an adapter unit for a microwave level meter operating by the radar principle which adapter unit encompasses an injection device for coupling-in a microwave signal. This constitutes a low-cost solution for connecting a microwave level meter to a reference container, ensuring optimized signal injection.

Abstract: A liquid detecting device includes a water tank, a stabilizer received in the water tank, a floating element received in the water tank, and a sensor disposed underneath the water tank. The floating element has a first end and a second end. A volume of the first end is greater than that of the second end. The floating element has a permanent magnet disposed in the second end. When the water tank is filled with water, the first end is floating such that the stabilizer abuts against the floating element. The second end rotates to approach the sensor such that the sensor interacts with the permanent magnet to indicate presence of water. When the water tank is empty, the first end abuts against the water tank such that second end is away from the sensor. The sensor does not interact with the permanent magnet to indicate absence of water.

Abstract: In a liquid container used in an automatic analyzer, a float that makes it possible to prevent liquid from making contact with a liquid collection opening of the liquid container to form a film thereon is provided. A float is floated on the liquid surface of a reagent placed in a reagent container for use with an automatic analyzer. The float is equipped with a float body and a required number of buoyancy adjusters. The float body is equipped with a liquid surface cover that covers substantially the entire liquid surface, and a side wall portion positioned so as to project beneath the liquid surface from the liquid surface cover. The side wall portion constitutes a device for the purpose of suppressing swaying motions of the liquid surface cover by making contact with or engaging an inner wall of the reagent container when the reagent sways.

Abstract: The invention relates to a level meter which comprises a tank (1) which can at least be partially filled with a medium and has a bottom (12). The level meter further comprises a first measuring device (2) having a float (23) in the interior (14) of the tank (1) for indicating the level of the medium inside the tank (1). Said measuring system is disposed in the top section of the tank (1) and in parallel to a path of displacement of the float (23). An aligning unit 94) comprises at least one fixing element (41; 43; 45; 47) for fixing at least one lower section (32) of the meter tube (30) on the bottom (12) in relation to the path of displacement of the float (23) and at least one medium passage (42; 44; 46; 48) for allowing the medium to flow between the interior (14) of the tank (1) and the interior of the meter tube (30).

Abstract: An air conditioning system condensate collection pan or water leak containment pan electrical control switch includes a housing or frame for supporting a switch unit which includes an elongated actuator arm. The housing includes a slot disposed adjacent a distal end of the actuator arm for receiving a water soluble tablet engageable with the actuator arm to bias the arm into a predetermined position of the switch. Abnormal accumulation of condensate or leaking water dissolves the tablet and allows the actuator arm to move to a position to effect actuation of the switch. The switch may be connected to a control unit, a thermostat and/or to an alarm generator including a self-contained unit having battery powered audio and/or visual alarm devices, an on-off switch and a circuit test switch.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring a level of a fluid and detecting water in a storage container is provided. The apparatus comprises a signal-based fluid level measurement apparatus and a water detection device. The signal-based fluid level measurement apparatus has a first multistatic probe conveying a first signal and a second multistatic probe conveying a second signal. The first and second multistatic probes are electrically coupled by a float-coupler. The signal-based fluid level measurement apparatus determines the level of the fluid in the storage container based at least in part on a time delay between the first and second signals. The water detection device is operably coupled to the fluid level measurement apparatus. The water detection device monitors at least one of conduction and a dielectric constant between exposed ends of the first and second multistatic probes. As such, a presence of the water in the storage tank is detected.

Abstract: A fuel tank cover body which can be easily manufactured. The fuel tank cover body comprises a cover 2 for closing the opening of a fuel tank; a liquid level detection unit 3 housed in the fuel tank; and a bracket 4 acting as a fixing portion for fixing the liquid level detection unit 3 and disposed in the cover 2. The cover 2 and the bracket 4 are integrally formed of a resin.

Abstract: A fuel tank assembly (12) is provided for containing liquid fuel and supplying that fuel, upon demand, to an internal combustion engine. The assembly (12) includes a tank (14) in which is disposed a fuel pump module (18). The fuel pump module (18) includes a cup-like reservoir (34) which houses a fuel pump (46) and carries along its outer side wall (36) a fuel level sender unit (32). A float arm (60) extends pivotally from the fuel level sender (32) and swings up and down as the level of fuel in the tank (14) changes. The float arm (60) is pivotally supported on a carrier (58) attached to the side wall (36) of the reservoir (34). A sliding interface (62) is disposed along the side wall (36) of the reservoir (34) for slidably receiving and securing the carrier (58) along a captured alignment path. The fuel level sender (32) can be infinitely positioned in the longitudinal direction along the sliding interface (62) during assembly of the fuel pump module (18).

Abstract: A clogging indicator for a fish tank or aquarium comprising a transparent vertical tube with a float positioned therein. The indicator is designed to sit on the outside of the tank and the filter itself. The water level in the tube is lowered and raised according to the amount of water with a rear chamber of the filter. Indicating marks are located on the tube to visually display normal or clogged operation. Backup water from a clogged filter will raise the water level in the rear chamber and thus also the indicator tube. As the water level rises, the float raises toward a warning indicator mark to indicate the need for filter changing.

Abstract: A float level sensing system comprises a float and an elongated probe for sensing position of the float. The float is mounted proximate the probe so that the float floats atop the process material. The float drops outside a sensing range of the probe responsive to a failure of the float. A sensing circuit is operatively associated with the probe for measuring a characteristic of the probe representing position of the float and is operative to indicate a fault condition if the float is outside of the sensing range of the probe.

Abstract: Fuel filter for diesel engines with high pressure direct injection of common rail type and the like, comprising an outer casing provided with a fuel inlet conduit (3) and an outlet conduit (4), and containing in its interior a filter means(5), a temperature sensor(15) being positioned in proximity to the bottom of said casing to measure the temperature of the fuel present in the casing.

Abstract: A magnetostrictive fuel level probe includes a spring-loaded foot. The probe shaft of the fuel level probe moves up and down within the spring-loaded foot as a function of fuel density. The spring-loaded foot includes a reference magnet whose height relative to the bottom of a fuel storage tank is fixed. Currents generated by the fuel level probe allow measurement of how much of the fuel level probe is positioned above the reference magnet, and from this measurement, the buoyancy of the fuel level probe may be measured. From the buoyancy of the fuel level probe, the fuel density may be calculated.

Abstract: A magnetostrictive fuel level probe includes a spring-loaded foot. The probe shaft of the fuel level probe moves up and down within the spring-loaded foot as a function of fuel density. The spring-loaded foot includes a reference magnet whose height relative to the bottom of a fuel storage tank is fixed. Currents generated by the fuel level probe allow measurement of how much of the fuel level probe is positioned above the reference magnet, and from this measurement, the buoyancy of the fuel level probe may be measured. From the buoyancy of the fuel level probe, the fuel density may be calculated.

Abstract: A includes a main body portion defining a waste holding chamber, a vent path extending from the waste holding chamber to atmosphere, and a float member. The float member is coupled to the tank for movement between a first position and a second position. The float member is movable from the first position to the second position in response to an increase in fluid level within the storage chamber. The vent passage remains open for venting the storage chamber when the float member is in the first position and is blocks the vent passage in the second position.

Abstract: This invention relates to a tap assembly for a liquid vessel, having an overfill protection device and a float controlled mechanical or magnetic level gauge. A single float actuates a stem of the overfill protection device as well as a rod of the level gauge. The rod of the level gauge has one end movable linearly in a valve body bore and carrying a permanent magnet for actuating a magnetic level indicator. In one embodiment a crank mechanism may be provided between a float lever and the rod of the level gauge to cause the rod to effectuate a swinging movement and simultaneously displace the rod longitudinally to cause linear displacement of the permanent magnet in the valve body bore. In another embodiment the rod may be actuated by a cam to cause axial displacement thereof without swinging motion.

Abstract: An apparatus for improving the service life of a submersible probe residing in a tank includes a liquid level detector adapted to detect when a liquid in the tank rises to a first level. The first level is above the probe. A controller is coupled to the liquid level detector. The controller is configured to increase at least one of a voltage and a current applied to the probe responsive to the liquid being detected at the first level. The controller is configured to reduce an electrical potential field produced by the probe responsive to the liquid falling below a second level, thereby extending the service life of the probe by reducing the accumulation of foreign matter on the probe when the pump is not activated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a segmented cylindrical tide staff system [11] for erection at remote areas for dynamic calibration of electronic tide meters and computer models of tides, said tide staff system consisting of plurality of cylindrical tubes [12], said cylindrical tube being coupled to a flange [13] at its end through a circular orthogonal hole [20] drilled on a flat surface of the flange, said flange being provided with plurality of equally spaced slots [15] drilled on the flat surface of the flange, an outwardly protruding tide indicating arm [14] being mounted on the flange wherein said tide indicating arm consists of two mutually orthogonal planes [22] and [23], wherein plane [22] is perpendicular to the axis of the tide staff and plane [23] is parallel to the axis of the tide staff, said perpendicular plane [22] being provided with a mounting terminal [21] and a circular

Abstract: A level gauge (1) for measuring the amount of liquid in a tank, such as a ground tank (19) containing fuel (21, is disclosed. The level gauge (10 comprises a probe (2) having a pressure sensor based on registration of hydrostatic pressure differential between the liquid and the tank atmosphere. The probe (2) is submersed in the liquid and is located adjacent to the bottom of the tank. The probe (2) is in tank atmospheric communication with an air trap (4), which is located in the tank atmosphere above the surface of the body of liquid.

Abstract: A redundant level measuring system comprises a chamber for fluidic coupling to a process vessel whereby material level in the vessel equalizes with material level in the chamber. A float including a magnet in the chamber rises and falls with material level in the chamber. A magnet actuated visual indicator is mounted to the chamber for indicating level of the magnet in the chamber. A measurement instrument includes a probe and a measurement circuit. The instrument is mounted atop the chamber with the probe extending downwardly into the chamber. The measurement circuit measures a characteristic of the probe representing level of the material in the chamber. A shield in the chamber isolate the float from the probe.

Abstract: A redundant level measuring system comprises a chamber for fluidic coupling to a process vessel whereby material level in the vessel equalizes with material level in the chamber. A float including a magnet in the chamber rises and falls with material level in the chamber. A magnet actuated visual indicator is mounted to the chamber for indicating level of the magnet in the chamber. A measurement instrument includes a probe and a measurement circuit. The instrument is mounted atop the chamber with the probe extending downwardly into the chamber. The measurement circuit measures a characteristic of the probe representing level of the material in the chamber. A shield in the chamber isolate the float from the probe.

Abstract: A surface-modified water-absorbent resin powder is produced continuously with high productivity in a state where the particle diameter distribution is narrow and where the properties are high by a process comprising a polymerizing step, a drying step, a pulverizing step, a classifying step, and a surface-modifying step, and further, conveying steps of connecting them, wherein the conveying steps include at least two hoppers for storing the water-absorbent resin powder. A powder surface detector used favorably for this process includes a float hung down by a hanging line.

Abstract: A fuel gauge assembly for mounting to the fuel tank of a small engine which is used with a lawnmower, lawn tractor, other outdoor lawn and garden implement, or off road or sport vehicle. The fuel gauge assembly generally includes an indicator housing and a float assembly. The indicator housing is mounted exteriorly of the fuel tank and includes a movable indicator element including a magnet or a magnetically attractive material. The float assembly includes a support member mounted interiorly of the fuel tank, and further includes an arm pivotally connected to the support member, the arm including a magnet or magnetically attractive material disposed adjacent the wall and a float for sensing a level of fuel within the fuel tank. When the level of fuel in the fuel tank varies, the float changes position such that the indicator element is moved to indicate the amount of fuel in the fuel tank.

Abstract: A level control device is adapted for use in a wastewater pump station. The level control device cooperates with a discharge pump to control the volume of wastewater contained in the pump station. The level control device includes a buoyant housing for being located in the pump station, and capable of floating on a surface of the wastewater. A control switch is adapted for being operatively connected to the motor starter of the discharge pump to activate the pump when the housing reaches a predetermined elevation in the pump station due to an increasing level of wastewater. An anti-accumulation surface of the housing acts to resist accumulation of grease and other waste.

Abstract: A vehicle oil level monitoring system for verifying the amount of oil in an engine without requiring the user to access the engine compartment. The vehicle oil level monitoring system includes a vehicle with an engine and a fuel port, a dipstick, a sensor coupled to the dipstick for sensing the level of oil in the engine, and a monitoring assembly.

Abstract: Multi-symbol refractive encoding of distance or level along a scale provides an advanced means for measuring liquid level or dissimilar-liquid interface level with a float. Distance or level information is encoded in the patterns of microfacets impressed in the scale. The microfacets divide and direct incident visible or infrared beams toward or away from detectors disposed in arrays. This approach provides significant reductions in the number of encoding tracks and of the size of the float, improved accuracy, fault detection, increased span, less friction, and easier installation. A slender rod can replace the wide encoding tape of prior designs. The rod can also be used to guide optical or acoustic signals efficiently from floats to the rod support and thus on to level indicating and recording devices. In addition, the rod support provides means for quick installation, signal coupling, and setting reference levels.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining unique fuel amount limit values for a fuel tank of a particular vehicle. The fuel tank has a first fuel amount limit that is associated with a level of fuel in the fuel tank. A fuel varying activity is performed related to the fuel tank of the vehicle so that the level of fuel in the fuel tank is beyond the first fuel amount level. A second fuel amount limit is determined based upon the level of fuel that is beyond the first fuel amount level. A fuel amount indicator display is adjusted based upon the determined second fuel amount.

Abstract: A time delayed fluid level monitoring device (10) for monitoring the level of oil in a compressor sump (not shown) comprises a housing (12) which defines an internal cavity (18). Two orifices (20 and 22) are provided at end (16) of housing (12) to allow fluid communication between the interior of the compressor sump and the cavity (18). Orifice (20) is a restriction hole for restricting the flow of fluid between cavity (18) and the compressor sump so that there is a time delay between the equalization of fluid levels within the compressor sump and cavity (18). Orifice (22) is of a vent hole. A float (24) is pivotally supported within the cavity (18) as provided at one end (28) with a magnet (36) for switching a reed switch (26) extending through the housing (12).

Abstract: A fuel sending unit assembly includes a pump for pumping fuel from a storage system to a combustion system, a float for measuring the level of fuel remaining in the storage system, and a filter for preventing debris contained in the fuel from entering the combustion system. The assembly is characterized by the filter being attached to the float. In this manner, the assembly intakes fuel from the fuel surface rather than debris or liquid contaminants which have settled on the bottom of the tank. In a preferred embodiment, the assembly further includes a tube for attaching the float to the pump and for channeling fuel from the filter to the pump.

Abstract: A fuel level detecting device has a first locking mechanism including a locking member, clamping portions for clamping a mounting surface, and pawl arms which are on a body of the device. A slit and engagement portions are provided on the mounting face of the mounting member, which acts as a second locking mechanism. The thickness of the locking member is equal to or slightly larger than the width of the slit, and the gap between a clamping portion and a contact face is equal to or slightly smaller than the thickness of the mounting face. The body is mounted to the mounting member when the locking member is inserted into the slit. This ensures the fuel detecting device to be mounted without play and disconnection thereof even when vibration occurs.

Abstract: An oil level detector mounting arrangement, which includes a mount having a downward tube dipped in the oil in the oil tank of a vehicle, a float floating in the oil in the oil tank and moved along the downward tube, and a circuit board sealed in the downward tube and carrying a plurality of solenoids at different elevations for acting with magnets at the float to indicate the elevation of the float in the oil tank, wherein the solenoids each have a first end inserted through a respective hole at the circuit board and then welded to a contact at the circuit board, and a second end inserted through a respective hole at the circuit board and then welded to a common springy wire conductor suspended from the circuit board.

Abstract: A valve assembly and a bottom-draining container having the valve assembly. The valve assembly comprising a first body member, a guide member supported by the first body member so that the guide member will extend upward into the container, and a float mounted for movement along the guide member, the float being buoyant in a liquid to be drained from the container, the float having a mating surface for engaging a second mating surface on the valve assembly when the float is in the unsensed position, the mating surface of the float having a configuration for minimizing sticking of the float with respect to the valve assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically maintaining a level of water in a pool reservoir comprising a housing which includes a transmitter/receiver device, a logic circuit in communication with the transmitter/receiver device, a valve assembly controlled by the logic circuit, and a water inlet and a water outlet in communication with the valve assembly. In addition to the housing, the apparatus also comprises a power supply connected to the housing, a float in communication with the housing, the float pivotally connected at a front portion of the housing facing a reservoir, the float further riding a surface of the reservoir, and a flag in communication with the float, the flag positioned to come into a parallel position with the transmitter/receiver.

Abstract: An electric submersible motor-driven pump includes a pump housing (2) in which is located a pump motor (3) and an associated impeller (4). A separate detachable float and switch housing (6) is detachably connected to the pump housing (2) and defines a substantially elongated upright chamber having a longitudinal axis in which an elongated float (8) moves for operating a switch arm of a switch whose electrical components are isolated from the fluid being pumped. A switchable adapter plug exteriorly of the housings is rendered operative by the electrical components upon movement of the float (8) to selectively energize or de-energize the pump motor (3).

Abstract: The present invention relates to an intake-and-gauging device for the fuel in a motor vehicle, the device comprising a fixing base designed to be fixed on a wall of a fuel tank and carrying an intake assembly provided with a reserve receptacle and a gauging assembly, wherein the gauging assembly is slidably mounted in a generally vertical direction on the reserve receptacle and is resiliently urged towards the bottom of the relative to said receptacle.

Abstract: A device and method for containing spills and leaks from fuel handling equipment is provided in which differential sensing means detect the presence of hydrocarbons and nonhydrocarbons such as water. Signals and the responses generated according to them may depend upon the nature and quantity of the substance contained in the device. Signalling may be conducted remotely and excavation and reconstruction of service station grounds is minimized with these devices. In a preferred embodiment, the device is made of unitary construction with the differential sensing means formed as a portion of the surface of a containment vessel.

Abstract: A pre-installation liquid level gauge assembly is provided which comprises a fitting with a threaded outer surface and a thread protector friction fit over the threaded outer surface. The thread protector comprises a sleeve portion and a shoulder portion extending radially inwardly to protect the end of the fitting and prevent the sleeve portion from sliding up the fitting to expose some of the lower threads. The shoulder portion defines a hole that is larger than the outer diameter of the passage in the fitting so that the thread protector does not interfere with the insertion of an extension piece into the passage in the fitting. The thread protector includes a tab and a scored line extending from the tab to the edge of the hole defined in the shoulder portion such that the tab can be pulled to totally split the thread protector to allow ready removal of the thread protector from the fitting.

Abstract: A magnetostrictive liquid level transducer equipped with a number of temperature sensitive resistors is supplied with low level power from a remote station and charges a capacitor to store power for interrogation of the level transducer. The transducer is interrogated periodically for level measurements and the capacitor is recharged between interrogations. During the recharging periods, temperature measurements are made. Thus the level and temperature related data is measured and transmitted alternately. Each measurement results in a pair of pulses having a spacing corresponding to the measured value. The transmission message comprises a plurality of frames or time periods. The first frame is blank and is used for synchronizing the receiving device with the message frames. The subsequent frames have the level and temperature related data interleaved in the message and are easily sorted by the receiving device at the remote station. The data pulses are sent on the power transmission conductors.

Abstract: A system for a gauge well in a liquid storage tank with a floating roof including a floatable container located inside the gauge well and having a flexible laterally or radially serrated flange extending outward from the float and in contact with the inside of the well pipe to prevent vapor from the liquid stock from rising in the pipe. There may be a pair of such flexible flanges vertically spaced apart with the lower seal being just above the level of the liquid stock in the well pipe. A tape is attached at its lower end to a weight in the well pipe below the float and its upper end is connected to a winch outwardly of the upper end of the well pipe. A vertical passageway through the float is provided for the tape to pass freely therethrough and the float is freely slidable on the tape. The container includes a closed opening which is selectively opened to fill with the liquid stock at any selected level in the tank.