Refrigerant alert and automatic recharging device
US4856288A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 13, 1984 |
| Grant date | Aug 15, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 13, 2004 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/7368
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A sensor for sensing the quantity of refrigerant in a closed loop refrigeration system, with the sensor having attachment means on a lower portion thereof such that it may be installed in direct communication with the refrigerant line of the refrigeration system. The sensor has a hollow interior portion defined by generally cylindrical sidewalls, in which interior portion a float of conductive material is disposed, with the float being free to rise on the surface of liquid refrigerant entering the interior of the sensor from the refrigerant line. At least one electrode is disposed in the interior of said sensor, in a position such that it will be contacted by the float at the time a certain refrigerant level is reached in the interior of the sensor. The electrode forms a part of an electrical circuit configured and arranged to perform a specific control function, with such electrical circuit being completed to perform that control function at the time the certain refrigerant level is reached, this being as a consequence of electrical contact of the float with the electrode. The control function can include the providing of an alarm to the operator of the system, or the automatic ad…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.