US3880209A

US3880209A - Automatic-level battery cell liquid filling portable device

Info

Publication number: US3880209A
Application number: US468427A
Authority: US
Inventors: David C Haughn; Peter C Gaddi
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1974-05-09
Filing date: 1974-05-09
Publication date: 1975-04-29
Anticipated expiration: 1992-04-29

Abstract

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a water-filling device for the filling of battery cells particularly of an industrial plant type directed toward the problem of obtaining a level of liquid within the battery as desired in an predetermined and automatically obtainable amount by virtue of the present inventive device which automatically turns off the flow of the filling-pump nozzle by virtue of the highly sensitive but safely low voltage and amperage currents embodying alternate levels of selector-type switch controls, together with a pump-protective circuit breaker utilized in conjunction with a fuse for initating the breaking of circuit to turn-off the pump, the alternate levels of filling being made possible by a first probe connected to the battery-negativeterminal being immersed within the battery liquid during the filling and the battery-positive-terminal probe elements being alternately selectable by a electro-switch and being spaced above the battery-negative-terminal probe at different heights along the filling nozzle''s surface on the outer surface thereof and being laterally spaced from one another in non-vertical alignment to prevent droplet drainage from short-circuiting between the alternate terminals, the pump automatically turning-off when the liquid level reaches the pre-selected positive terminal to established circuitry conductance, and the low level of voltage and current with high sensitivity being achieved by the positive probe terminal being directed through the transistor base lead and outwardly from the emitter lead of the transistor with the collector lead being connected to the negative terminal such that when current passes between the probes as the pre-selected liquid levels is reached, the current passes upwardly into the base lead to result a current being passed from the emitter lead in an amount sufficient to activate a relay which opens a switch feeding second relay whereupon the second relay with its circuitry broken no longer holds closed the pump actuating switch which when the second relay is not activated assumes an open position to turn off the pump, the circuit breaking third relay serving to hold closed an additional switch and the circuitry of the second relay so long as the current flows through the third relay and when a fuse after an overload of the current relay in series therewith, becomes burned-out, the deactivated third relay serving thereby to keep-closed the additional switch such that the second relay is deactivated and the second switch to the pump becomes opened to turn-off the pump as a result of the burned-out fuse. Another preferred aspect of the present invention has to do with the portable nature of the new simplified circuitry and pump combination on a roller-supported stand carrying all circuitry and a water-containing reservoir together with a protected power source to prevent sparks and/or accidental shocking of the worker.

Description

United States Patent [:91

Haughn et al.

[451 Apr. 29, 1975 AUTOMATIC-LEVEL BATTERY CELL LIQUID FILLING PORTABLE DEVICE [76] Inventors: David C. Haughn, 4228 NW. 4th

St.. Miami, Fla. 33126; Peter C. Gaddi, 288 E. lOth St., Hialeah, Fla. 35513 [22] Filed: May 9, I974 [21] Appl. No.: 468,427

[52] US. Cl. 141/95; l41/l98; l4l/23l [5|] Int. Cl B65b 1/36 [58] Field of Search l4l/l92-229, l4l/231-233, 9496 [56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 3.430.667 3/1969 Hughes l4l/95 Primary E.raminerHoust0n S. Bell, Jr.

[57] ABSTRACT In a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a water-filling device for the filling of battery cells particularly of an industrial plant type directed toward the problem of obtaining a level of liquid within the battery as desired in an predetermined and automatically obtainable amount by virtue of the present inventive device which automatically turns off the flow of the filling-pump nozzle by virtue of the highly sensitive but safely low voltage and amperage currents embodying alternate levels of selector-type switch controls, together with a pump-protective circuit breaker utilized in conjunction with a fuse for initating the breaking of circuit to turn-off the pump, the alternate levels of filling being made possible by a first probe connected to the battery-negative-terminal being immersed within the battery liquid during the filling and the battery-positive-terminal probe elements being alternately selectable by a electro-switch and being spaced above the battery-negative-terminal probe at different heights along the filling nozzle's surface on the outer surface thereof and being laterally spaced from one another in non-vertical alignment to prevent droplet drainage from short-circuiting between the alternate terminals, the pump automatically turning'off when the liquid level reaches the preselected positive terminal to established circuitry conductance, and the low level of voltage and current with high sensitivity being achieved by the positive probe terminal being directed through the transistor base lead and outwardly from the emitter lead of the transistor with the collector lead being connected to the negative terminal such that when current passes between the probes as the pre-selected liquid levels is reached. the current passes upwardly into the base lead to result a current being passed from the emitter lead in an amount sufficient to activate a relay which opens a switch feeding second relay whereupon the second relay with its circuitry broken no longer holds closed the pump actuating switch which when the second relay is not activated assumes an open position to turn off the pump. the circuit breaking third relay serving to hold closed an additional switch and the circuitry of the second relay so long as the current flows through the third relay and when a fuse after an overload of the current relay in series therewith. becomes burned-out. the deactivated third relay serving thereby to keep-closed the additional switch such that the second relay is deactivated and the second switch to the pump becomes opened to turn-off the pump as a result of the burned-out fuse. Another preferred aspect of the present invention has to do with the portable nature of the new simplified circuitry and pump combination on a roller-supported stand carrying all circuitry and a water-containing reservoir together with a protected power source to prevent sparks and- /or accidental shocking of the worker.

11 Claims, 8 Drawing Figures AUTOMATIC-LEVEL BATTERY CELL LIQUID FILLING PORTABLE DEVICE The present invention is directed to a battery-cellfilling water pump device and circuitry therefor. for safely and efficiently and sensitively accurately filling industrial battery cells with the convenience of a portable syste m.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Prior to the present invention there has existed a deftnite need for a portable industrial battery cells filler. together with need for a highly sensitive device for effecting predetermined but variable levels of waterfilling for various battery-cells while avoiding any safety hazards of each or both explosion or the shocking or electrocution of worker while suceeding these ends by the utilization of some low cost and simple mechanism of operation while obtaining a high efficiency and speed in operation together with the simplicity of operation of such mechanism such that no special training nor skills are required.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly objects of the present invention includes the overcoming of the problems and difficulties and a meeting of one or more of the needs of the types discussed above by the present invention.

Another object is to avoid conductance by shorting between alternate selector position by virtue of droplets or draining liquid on the manifold.

Another object is to obtain a sensitivity controllably variable to adjust for difference in the particular mechanism as well as difference in the sensitivitydesired for a particular filling.

Another object is to obtain maximum sensitivity while operating at low voltage and amperage.

Another object is to provide a system of relays and switches control thereby in parallel circuitries with one another for effecting fooLproof control of a pump while concurrently controlling off-and-on flow without having to switch on-and-off the major power source.

Another object is to obtain a manual operator-switch control for turning on and maintaining pumping until a predetermined liquid filled battery-cell level is obtained whereupon the automatic turning-off of the pump is obtained even though the actuation is by an operator manually still on the flow position.

Another object is to obtain a novel new-circuit breaker combination for detecting.

Another object is to obtain a portable combination having its own source of water supply together with safety features against sparking and/or accidental shocking of a worker, or of explosion.

Other objects become apparent with the preceeding and following disclosure.

One or more objects of the present invention are obtained by the invention as defined therein.

Broadly the invention includes a novel highly sensitive battery water-level detector devoid of elevated current or voltage which might otherwise spark an explosion which of its own explosion force can be damaging but which in conjunction with the acid contained in the batteries could be fatal to workers and as well as the structure to surrounding environmental structures. as well as the present invention achieving a selectivity of desired predetermined levels to which the particular batteries might desirably be filled. while which the same basic circuitry providing adequate power for the driving of a pump motor, the pre-selected level of filling resulting in an automatic turning-off of the pump or flow valve or the like. preferably the pump itself. This is achieved by virtue of employment of a relay transistor typically and preferably, and a base lead, a collector lead and emitter lead, with the collector and emitter leads connected in parallel with the pump between for example the battery-negative-terminal lead to which the collector would be attached and battery-positiveterminal lead to which the emitter lead would be attached. and with the base lead connected to one of two spaced-apart probes which would be placed into the battery cell opening typically of a part of the filling structure leading to the pump while the other probe assembly thereof would be connected to the battery-negative-terminal with one of the probe terminals on the nozzle being spaced above the others such that when the nozzle is placed within the neck opening of the battery down thereinto. a current becomes flowable between the two probes or terminals thereof only when the level of the water within the battery has reached sufficient height as to cover both probe terminals. Preferably there are a plurality of upper probe terminals of the probe connected to the battery-positive terminal lead such that a selector switch may select any one alternately of the probe terminals of the battery-positive-terminal lead in order to provide flexibility as to how high the battery cell will be permitted to fill before turning off the pump. In order to more precisely adjust the exact desired intensity of current permitted flow through the base lead by virtue of the probes. there is located a rheostat in the lead of at least one of the probes, preferably adjacent the base lead of the transistor. Adjacent the emitter of the transistor in the lead therefrom. there is provided a relay coil which become activated when current is permitted to flow into the base lead of the transistor such that the activated relay operates a switch in the parallel lead of the pump to break circuit to the pump to thereby turn-off the pump. It should be noted that by this arrangement the main circuitry may still be on providing the necessary voltage and current to the transistor while nevertheless the pump has been turned-off by virtue of the flowing of current between the two probes because of the fact of the water level within the battery having reached the predetermined selected point. In a preferred embodiment there is in parallel with the probes an on-off switch preferably of a push-button type such that the push-button switch is normally closed to prevent flow from taking place by turning-off the pump until such time as the operator pushes the button the break circuit which thereby permits the pump to start pumping water into the battery until such time as the transistor again causes its adjacent relay to turn-off the pump when the current passes between the probes because the predetermine level of water within the battery has been reached. Although it is possible to have a separate off-and-on switch and is preferred to do so. for the overall circuitry, the relay activated by virtue of the current passing into the base lead of the transistor. may in fact be connected to merely the sole one switch which when turned-off turns-off the entire circuitry which remains off until manually closed again. Such a system will have the advantage of permitting a simplified circuitry. However in a preferring embodiment of the invention which also includes a fuse for the protection of the pump and includes a novel system for cutting out the pump in the event ofa current sufficiently great to burn-out the fuse while the pump nevertheless retained its power until such time as the additional relay (preferably associated with the fuse but mounted also in the separate parallel circuit parallel with the pump transistor) becomes deactivated by virtue of the burning out of the fuse to thereby open the switch which had been closed by this additional relay. and by opening this additional switch breaks circuit in the parallel lead in which the pump is located to turn-off the pump. Such a connection may be directed to the lead in which the pump is located in the parallel circuitry but preferably is as follows. The first relay adjacent the emitter lead of the transistor and in the emitter lead when activated preferably opens a first switch in a lead parallel to that of the transistor emitter lead and parallel to that lead in which the pump is located. To open the first switch and what shall be referred to as a third parallel lead. and in this third parallel lead there is lo cated a relay. the first switch must be opened to deactivate the coils of the relay which shall be referred to as the second relay. to thereby deactivate the second switch. which second switch is adjacent to the pump in the parallel line in which the pump is connected; the opening of the second switch turns-off the pump. In a fourth parallel line there is located a third relay which when activated of the turning on of the over-all cir' cuitry closes the switch in the third parallel line in which the second relay is mounted. the third relay in the fourth line upon being activated closing a third switch in the third line to thereby close the circuit of the third line whereby the second relay is activated to maintain a closed state for the second switch which turns on the pump; accordingly the third relay remains activated until such time as the fuse in series therewith burns-out. Upon burning-out of the fuse. the third relay ceases to function because of the deactivation and accordingly opens the third switch to thereby deactivate the second relay which thereby opens the second switch which turns-off the pump. Under normal circumstances in which the fuse does not burn out. the third relay always function to make possible current flow through the third line and accordingly to the second relay and thereby always keeps the pump second switch on the on-position except at such times that the first relay adjacent the transistor opens the first switch in the third line to thereby turn-off the second relay in the third line which thereby opens the second switch controlling the pump in the second lead line in which the pump is located.

This identical circuitry may be employed for a system employing a rectifier, and transformer secondary connections to alternating circuit. merely substituting the direct current terminal from the rectifiers for the battery source referred to in this first described preferred embodiment.

However. in order to make the present system more adaptable to already existing pumping system in their adaptation thereof by the mounting of the present circuitry in conjunction with existing circuitry. in view of the fact that in existing circuitry the pump motor normally will already be connected for the running thereof typically on high voltage AC current. a third embodiment may be employed for such a situation. In such a preferred embodiment. on the secondary side of the transformer. there will be located a diode such as a zenia diode or silicon rectifier diode for the rectifying of current to flow solely in one direction. and through preferably a fuse. with there being also connected preferably capacitor on the positive side connected in series with the transistor emitter. In this third embodiment. the mechanism of operation is preferably sub stantially similar to that described above except that naturally be relay as located with the the tubes is connected in series the fuse either before or after the fuse such that the burning-out of the fuse the fuse-relay becomes deactivated to thereby cause the fuse-relay switch to break circuitry in the line parallel to the pump and having a pump controlling relay which thereby is deactivated to cause the switch in the pump line to open to its normally open state. In this embodiment the heater relay switch and the relay control the pump switch in the alternating current circuitry in a line parallel to the alternating current line in which the pump is located. In this embodiment the relay associated with the emitter of the transistor continues to be located on the secondary side of the transformer, i.e.. in the direct current flow circuit as well as the fuse and the relay being located preferably in the direct current closed circuit.

Also however. as an intimate part of the invention and a main purpose for the above circuitry is a portable aspect of this entire mechanism. which substantially differs from any apparatus heretofore available in the industry. In particular. the pump and this very simplified circuitry. one or more of the type described above. are mounted on the apparatus including rollers and including support structure for a water-containing vessel as well as preferably the vessel itself suitably shaped for fitting on the support structure. as well as including preferably a support structure for a battery or alternately for supporting a rectifier for connecting to an alternate current source. and in either event also including shield structure and connection as a part there-of for providing easy connection of leads to the circuitry of the type preferred to above while concurrently pro viding for the avoidance of a splashing of water or acid onto the hot battery leads or rectifier circuitry or the like. and for protecting workers working thereby from accidentally coming into contact with wet and possibly live or grounded portions. the shield structure keeping the electrical contacts from being exposed to wetting conditions in the first place.

It is a unique combination of the novel circuitry of the present invention avoiding the possibility of sparks and explosion. together with the advantageous preferred embodiment on-circuitry most of the time while maintaining the pump in an off condition by virtue of the transistor push-button maintaining the pump switch in the off-position until such time as the push button breaks the transistor base lead circuitry to thereby permit the pump switch to close and the pump to start pumping until such time as the pump again is turned off when the predetermined water-acid level is reached which causes current to flow between the probes within the battery space of the battery cell being filled.

The apparatus of the present invention typically which will be preferred to as a syphomatic battery filler and preferably is fully automatic in its operation and used for filling preferably batteries with normally distilled water. It is so desired that an operator can reach an optionally alternate desired water level by a simple means of typically a three-way switch located on the handle carrying the filling nozzle. and to fill conveniently and faster than conventional prior devices because of overflow (overfill) possibilities being eliminated. and in a thus most economical way. There are two types of most preferred models which has been successful tested on their surface ability and advantages. The first model is a self-power model with a 12 DDC storage battery which is illustrated below in the FIG. 1 embodiment. the other is a N5 VAC unit which operates on a external power source of l 15 VAC. The 12 volt model is equipped with a extra length battery cable with harness plug which is normally used to save the life of the battery contained in the equipment. Caution should be taken not to connect it to any other source except 12 volt DC which are likely if connected to the other batteries to cause problems. the II! volt DC being typically the standard voltage of most batteries. The added connection to this extra cable is built-on plastic plate cover or shielded for covering the battery and likewise serves to protect against dirt and hazards.

Although the operation and use of this equipment is simple. proper care in main procedures should practiced. It is important that the nozzle tube he keep clean at all times. The applying a light film of grease or vasoline will greatly help maintain the nozzle tube and keep it dry. Cable extention leads and hosing space are preferably provided.

The motor pump in both ofthese preferred typical 12 volt and 1 l5 volt models could handle a fastfilling operation if required. These model were designed and calibrated to handle a regulated flow of water down to as low as 1 quart per minute. This is especially applicable to a small battery system such as used in cars and trucks. While the nozzle was made to enter an opening typically as small as one-half inch in diameter. the size or diameter may be varied for larger industrial applications. The installation of adapters as foot valves and check valves could either increase or decrease the liquid flow or out-put of the distilled water. In the preferred embodiment of the l2 volt battery variety. there is a separate key preferably for turning-on the entire electrical circuit. and when the switch key is turned-on. the circuit is completed at the transistor by way of pushing the push-button switch which thereby turns-off the current to the trnasistor base and concurrently also by the turning-on of the switch key to turn on the or activate the entire circuitry broadly. a relay is activated which closes the switch to a relay which in turn closes the pump switch to the pump switch to turn-off the pump. This particular relay upon its activation by turning on the switch also by acts in conjunction with a fuse as a circuit breaker such that when the fuse burns out the relay no longer functions and thereby it fails to close the switch which activates the relay controlling the pump switch such that the pump switch flips open to its normally open position. By the pressing of the button. the current to the base lead of the transistors is turned off whereby the pump is turned on by virtue of the collector lead of the transistor being connected to the battery negative terminal lead and by virtue of the emitter transistor through its relay control by the emit ter being connected to the lead to the battery positive terminal. The detection of the desired water level is achieved by current conducted between by metal probes located on the nozzle preferably but not necessarily. i.e.. a separate instrument having the probes located thereon can be inserted into the battery opening neck suitably. The liquid level is fairly promptly thereby in contact with the lower probe terminal and only when the liquid level has been increased sufficiently to also to contact the particular selected upper opposite probe terminal is the circuit thereby completed equivalent to a closed circuit prior to the pressing of a button whereby upon pressing the button current is again fed to the base lead of the transistor to thereby activate the relay associated with the emitter lead of the transistor to result in a turning-off of the pump circuitry to thus stop the pump from pumping through the liquid. In preferred embodiment there are also appropriate lights connected suitably for indicating when the pump is in fact pumping as well as others as indicating when the overall circuitry is off and not pumping. Such as a red lights combination for each of these different functions resulting two lights. one green and one red. preferably.

The handle assembly associated with the pumping tube or nozzle is preferably mounted on the tube abo\ e the nozzle and preferably includes the selector switch for selecting the particular probe in order to obtain a predetermined desired level of water filling in a battery to be filled or a cell of the battery to be filled. Thus the handle assembly mounts the sensing nozzle mechanism that makes contact with the water inside of the battery cell and it is through this nozzle that the distilled water is furnished into the battery cell. Typically the handle is being gripped by the hand of the operator and after the on switch of the entire mechanism has been switched to the on position. the worker (once he has the nozzle in the mount of the battery cell to be filled) merely has to push the button to start the pump to pumping the water since the pump circuit is already on" except for turning on the controlling off-on pump switch by virtue of a relay in directly control by the push button on the handle. Prior to pushing the button. the operator will have placed the selector switch to the particular level desired on the pre-selection switch dial face such as calibrated at one-fourth inch. one-half inch. three-quarters of an inch in height of water level above the cells. The models mentioned in this report have the same calibration typically. However other models may be calibrated to eighths or sixteenths of an inch if so desired. for example. The handle assembly. tubing and the utility box of the mounting apparatus preferably are made of polyvinyl chloride materials are of other suitable preferably non-metallic material to decrease the possibility of shorting of the probes as well as to increase the overall safety of the operating of the apparatus.

The nozzle tube is preferably made of hard nylon material. which is suitable resistent to acid as well has having the advantages noted above. Typically the plastic hose is about five-eights of an inch in diameter preferably has a small hole about one-fourth inch in diameter having the length of about 12 feet. and there typically being a l4 foot number 18, 2-8 wire that contacts to the sensing probes are connected. The small hose is located where the passing distilled water flows. The overall height of the apparatus typically is about 16% inches in height from floor level. There is included a bumper guard preferably as well as a water-jug holding structure offering firm and protective support for a waterjug of a conventional type in which distilled water for the battery is made available. The various mounting structure includes the protective plate for the battery as well as the bracket mounts for the pump and for also the control box embodying the circuitry principally of the type described above. together with any typically conventional type circuitry. The battery compartment typically includes metal strip flooring padded with typically sponge rubber strips to avoid any possibility of grounding. There typically and preferably are included also holes for fixedly securing this support equipment onto a wooden pallets when in need of transporting it from one location to another when not in use by truck. or other suitable commercial carrier mechanism or means. The rollers casters typically and preferably have three inch rubber wheels. onto which are located at the rear and they will typically remain stationary while the two front wheels move freely within an entire three hundred and sixty degree range. There is also preferably provided a separate polehandle as associated with the support structure for pulling or pushing the support structure from location to location for different places of use in the filling of different battery cells.

The invention may be better understood by making reference to Figures as follow.

THE FIGURES FIG. 1 illustrates in diagrammatic view a first and preferred embodiment circuitry of the novel probe of the present invention. as suited for particularly connection with a battery has an integral unit with the pump off the mounted from a pump and the mechanism thereof already in existence with minor modification of the circuitry thereof. This FIG. discloses in particular various alternate selector positions on the base lead of the transistor as well as the push-button which is normally on the closed position such that closed pump may be activated only by pushing the button in order to break the circuit to thereby turn offthe flow of current to the transistor base lead.

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment in another diagrammatic view of circuitry which is better suited for mounting on existing pumps and devices already manufactured and being used in conventional industrial batteryfilling operations. The circuitry of this Figure and embodiment is adaptable to a pump already connected into AC current source. FIGS. 2:! and 2b illustrate variation on the circuitry of FIG. 2, in particular emphasizing the location of an optional arrangement of on and off indicator light. together with gang switches for the operation thereof and taken controlled by a particular relay. These FIGS. 2a and 2h also are in diagrammatic view of the various alternate circuitry.

FIG. Ia illustrates a further variation on the portable circuitry of FIG. 1 illustrating a preferred circuitry for the embodying of the circuit lights indicating whether or not the circuit is on as well as indicating whether or not the pump itself is actuated for running.

FIG. 2a illustrates a variation of the circuitry of FIG. 2 for the embodying of two indicator lights, one cut-in the gang switch relay activated by the transistor of FIG. 2 causes the switch to close while the other one concurrently opens by virtue of gang switch connection.

FIG. 3 illustrates still another and very simplified dia grammatic circuitry view in which a probe and pump or whatever circuitry may be initiated and manufactured at low cost in both parts and labor of manufacture. This system additionally has many the advantages of the above noted systems but would be less preferred for reasons noted with regard to the preferred embodiments as above described as well as discussed in greater details in the detail description as follows.

FIG. 4 illustrates in prespective side view the overall apparatus and circuitry of the embodiment of FIG. I together with a battery to be filled.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view ofthe nozzle in a typical but preferred embodiment thereof, showing also the preferred arrangement of the multiplicity of probes.

FIG. 6 illustrates inpart view in prespective view of an alternate embodiment to that of FIG. 4, the FIG. 6 embodying being that corresponding to the circuitry of FIG. 2 in which there is an outside power source and utilization of a power cable in contradistinction to the FIG. I and 4 embodiments utilizing a battery.

DETAIL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION FIG. 1 illustrates in particular a preferred portable circuity I as compared to the FIG. 2 circuitry to require a power source. In the circuitry l of FIG. 1, there are two spaced-apart probe elements, namely the deep probe 3 which is on the terminal end of the nozzle for ready immersion beneath the liquid level within the battery cells during the filling thereof. and the alternated probe which has optional position for different preferred heights such as

probes

4a, 4b, 4c prespectively for the probe terminal 5. Switch 6 is typically and preferably a push-button type switch biased normally to a closed-state and illustrated in an open-state as would be the case when an operator was maintaining his finger on the button to break the circuit between the negative battery terminal lead 10a and the positive battery terminal lead 10b. the switch 6 in the open state thereby cutting off current to the rheostat lead II through rehostat 13 through the variable rheostat switch base transistor lead I2 such that the transistor 16 remains inactive thereby inactivating the output transistor emitter l5 and the relay 17. The probe terminal 3 is connected by parallel lead 9a to the negative battery terminal lead 330 while the probe terminal 5 is connected to the lead 9 in parallel with the battery for connection to the battery positive terminal lead 33!). Spring 7 is mounted to symbolic support structure 8. The transistor 16 is mounted in parallel with the battery 32 by the collector thereof being connected to the collector lead 14 and the emitter 15 being connected to the emitter lead with conduction coils of relay 17 being in the lead 20 with the actuation lever 18 controlling switch 19. Each of switches I9 and 26 are in the parallel lead 22 together with conduction coils of relay 27. The switch 26 is a normally closed-state whenever the switch 31 is closed as illustrated, and similarly the switch I9 is in a normally closed state whenever the switch 31 is closed if concurrently the switch 6 is open and if also concurrently there is not passing current between the probes terminal 3 and any one of 4a. 4b and 4c. Whenever the switch 3I is closed and the switch 6 is also closed. the coils of relay 1? are thereby activated such that the lever arm [8 opens the switch 19 of the lead 22, whereby the coils of relay 27 become deactivated. Whenever the coils 27 are activated as in it normal situation when switch 31 is closed and switch 6 is open. the lever 28 closes the switch 29. Which 29 is connected between leads 23a and 23b in series with the pump 30 such that when switch 31 is closed and switch 6 is open, current flows through each of leads 2! and 22 and the current flowing through lead 22 activates the coil of relay 27 to thereby cause the lever arm 28 to close the switch 29 whereby pump pumps liquid.

In the alternate variation embodiment of FIG. la. analagous parts are referred to by corresponding numbers such as 120 of FIG. lu as compared to the base lead 12 of FIG. I, and the like. The circuitry of FIG. lu substantially corresponds to that of the embodiment of FIG. 1 except for there additionally being

indicator lights

41 and 43 in parallel with the relay 27(- which as noted in the FIG. I circuitry controls the switch 29 to turn-off-and-on the pump 30. One of the indicator lights 41 is however connected below the switch Ilcwhile the other indicator light 43 is connected above the switch 191' adjacent to the pump-controlling relay 27c. whereby whenever the relay l7c' open up the switch 19c upon activation of the relay 171. the indicator light 43 is turned off at indicative of non-flow of water i.e. indicative that the pump is not pumping. while pipe 4l is turned off by the open switch 40 whenever the switch 191' is closed by the lever 18: and the gang lever extended between the switches 19c and 40 such that when the coils of relay 17c are activated the light 43 is off with the 41 is on indicative of the fact that the pump is not pumping as well as the fact that at least light 4] being on is indicative of the switch 31 being in a closed state.

The embodiment of FIG. 2 corresponds to the circuitry of that of FIG. 1 substantially. with the corresponding number being used such as the terminal 3' of FIG. 2 as compared to the terminal 3 of FIG. I. and the like. However. in this particular preferred embodiment for alternating current of external power source. the parallel lead 22' extends between the power source terminal leads of terminals 381: and 38b. and similarly the leads 23a and 23h having the switch 29' and pump 30' in series therebetween also entend in parallel between the terminals 38a and 38h. Additionally there is the step down transformer 37 for stepping current down from the primary coil 37a to the secondary coil 37b and there also included typically a zener diode for detecting the flow of current in the directionally nature of a rectifier. for doing way with impulse variation. there is provided the capacitor 36 as shown.

All of the leads correspond substantially to those of FIG. I.

FIG. 3 illustrates a circuitry comportable to that of FIG. I embodiment. except that in this embodiment the switch 29:] in parallel with the pump 30:] would control and typically would be manually controlled of the offon state of the entire circuitry in so far as being parallel with the battery negative lead 331! and the battery positive lead 331/. in this embodiment the coils of relay 17 when activated causing the switch 29d of the pump to open. whenever there is a current flow between the probes terminal 3d and 4d. In this embodiment in the circuitry as shown. power for the battery will always be available to each of the transistor 16d and the pump 30d. with the transistor base lead 12:1 being activated when there is current flow between the terminal 311 and 4d. and otherwise the pump being activated whenever the switch 29 is manually closed. Of course in this FIG. 3 embodiment there optionally may be also a master control switch not shown such as would correspond to the FIG. I switch 31 and the FIG. 2 switch 31'. In the FIG. I and la. and also in FIG. 3 in so far as FIG. 3 corresponds to FIG. I and la. the relays l7 and 24 are typically 12 volt direct current. 3 amp relay types. and the 10 relay 27 is typically a 12 volt direct 15 amp type. The battery 32 is typically a 12 volt direct current storage battery.

In the FIG. 2 and FIG. 2a embodiments. the diode typically may be a silicon diode rectifier type the fuse is typically a I ampere fuse. The transistor of all the various embodiments is typically a PNP transistor or its equivalent. The relays l7 and 24' are typically 12 volt direct current types and the relay 27' is typically a I I5 volt alternating current relay type. The transformer of FIGS. 2 and 3 respectively and typically a I I5 volt primary. I2 volt alternating current secondary type. The motor pump of the FIG. 2 embodiment and FIG. 2a. is a voltage alternating current type whereas for FIG. I and la the pump is a 12 volt direct current type.

In each of the embodiments of FIG. I. la. 2 and 2a the base lead is connected to the variable switch regulator of the rheostat I3 of FIG. I or 13 of FIG. 2 or [3d of FIG. 3, respectively. such that the precise amount of current fluid may be controlled in so far as individualizing the particular apparatus on which circuitry is mounted and/or for individualizing to a particular type battery cells to be serviced.

With reference to the illustrations of FIG. 4, 5. 6. the embodiments of FIG. 4 and 6 differ substantially only in the fact of the battery support structure 6l with its battery supported 61 with its battery supported thereon as battery 32. and the protector plate 55 mounted over the battery upper surface. Otherwise. the FIG. 6 embodiment includes solely a transformer and rectifier such as a diode for the stepping down of current inn the conversion thereof to the direct current flow. Accordingly. the control box 59' of FIG. 6 would additionally include typically the transformer and a rectifier such as a diodev In an embodiment of these Figures the identifying indicia of the prior Figures are carried over for the embodiments of FIG. 1 and In or the FIGS. 4 and 5. and correspondingly are carried over from the FIG. 2 to the embodiment of FIG. 6. Additional identified parts inelude for example an outer bumper and support ring 5211 having vessel support structure 5| supporting inner vessel support rings 50 and 520 respectively. the ring 52a being an upper bumper ring. Within the inner rings 50 is located and supported the water containing 48 with its upper outlet opening 49 having the siphon tube 47 extending there through downwardly to the siphon 53. The switch 31 is controlled by the switch 3I.\'. The circuit boxes are identified as circuit boxes 59 and 60 respectively. The battery of FIG. 4 is supported on the support 61, to which support structure the handle 46 if pivotably connected. Preferably at least the wheels nearest the handle of wheel 64 are caster wheels. preferably all being caster wheels. The line 45 is an accessory electric line of the battery for whatever purposes might be desired. The pump 30 pump water from the vessel 48 through the pump and outwardly through the pump outlet conduits 65 through the nozzle structure 62. Pump is actuated by pressing the handle push button 6. Both FIGS. 4 and 5 aptly illustrates the staggered relationships of the alternate level probes 4a. 4b and 40. as compared to the opposite terminal probes 3. Also there is shown the anti-splash detector 44. The detectors as noted above of the non-alignment of the alternate probes positions 4a. 4b and 4c. is to prevent any possibility of liquid-drain film or droplets from one of the upper probes from shorting across to another probe by gravity action on the droplet or water film. As is shown. the probe 3 is located at or adjacent to the terminal end ofthe nozzle. The FIG. 5 exploded view illustrates these parts in greater particularity together with illustrating the pinsockets 68 for the alternate probes 4a. 4b. 4c and the probe 3. as well as illustrating a rubber gasket ring 56 and the liquid flow conduit hole 59 and the lock nut 57 for the nozzle. and the liquid-flow tubes 66. and the typical seal ring 58. and base connector 67. as well as the previously noted liquid deflector 44. Upon insertion of the nozzle into an open cell after removal of a plug 64. of the industrial battery 63. the operator thereafter. after first turning on the switch key 311'. then merely presses the button 6 after first determining the desired level by setting the switch number Son the handle. In the embodiment of FIG. 6 the cable 68 provides current to the respective circuit control boxes 59 and 60'.

The handle assembly mounting the sensing nozzle that comes into contact with the water inside the storage battery. It is in this nozzle that the distilled water is flowed to fill the battery. The handle that is being gripped by the hand of the operator is a utility box which has a push button switch to turn the pump motor on. and is turned off by the sensing probes at the nozzle end when the prescribed predetermined water level is reached as selected by the selector button on the handle. The plastic hose contains the small hose within the larger hose for connecting the sensing probes to the circuit. Water flows. is noted previously. through the small hose. The framework of the water support vessel structure such as the rings described above preferably are made of cold rolled steel of about Vs inch thick except for the top plate of the motor pump mounting which is typically of about l/lb thick. There is provided a rubber strip of about five-sixteenth of an inch thick wrapped around the inner face of the inner ring and optionally. for cushion protection to the glass jug with the distilled water contents. The outer rings are each about Ita /z inches in diameter. serving as bumper guards. while the inner rings are typically about ll inches in diameters for holding the water jug. The battery compartment typically is about size l2 inches by 7 /4 inches. and optionally and desirable the metal strip flooring is padded with 5/ l 6 inch sponge rubber. There typically are provided 5/16 inch apertures or hose in diameter to be utilized for mounting the equipment on a wooden pallet when transporting the entire apparatus over long distances. The caster for the caster wheels typically has about the 3 inch rubber wheel in each case. typically the two rear wheels are staying stationary while the two front wheels move freely within the 360 range as noted previouly. The handle is typically of about 28 inches long and about 7/16 inch in diameter of the steel rod.

It is apparent that the two sensing probes discussed above must be made of current conducting acid proof material.

It is within this skill and scope and contemplation of the present invention to make such variations and mod ifications and substitution of equivalents as would be apparent to a person having ordinary skill in this particular field.

We claim:

I. A liquid-filling device comprising in combination: a power source means providing a direct current circuitry: a first lead connected to a negative terminal of fill the power source means and a second lead connected to a positive terminal of the power source means; connector means for connecting a pump in parallel between said first and second leads; a transistor including collector. base. and emitter leads. with the transistor connected in parallel between the first and second leads by the collector lead being connected to the first lead and the emitter lead being connected to the second lead; a first probe means connected to the first lead. and a second probe means connected to the second lead. at least one of the first and second probe means being spaced above and apart from the other as an upper probe means probe means for completing circuitry with the other and lower probe means when liquid level of liquid in contact with the lower probe means is of sufficient height to establish contact with the upper probe means to thereby establish an electric current flow conductance; a first relay means connected in electric current flow series between the emit ter lead and the second lead; first switch means for making and breaking circuitry through the connector means to the pump to thereby turn on and off a pump connected thereto. said first relay means being operatively connected for controlling said first switch means.

2. A liquid-filling device of claim I, and a variable rheostat connected in series between said second probe means and said base lead for regulating the level of electricity conductance necessary to exist between the first and second probe means for initiating flow of current sufficient to activate said first relay means by way of the emitter of the transistor.

3. A liquid-filling device of claim 2. in which said upper probe means includes a plurality of probe elements in parallel mounted on support structure with at least a first pole element located above a second probe element and laterally off-set in vertical axial nonalignment with the second probe element.

4. A liquid-filling device of claim 3. and a second relay means and second switch means connected in series one with the other between said first lead and said second lead. said first relay means being connected such that when activated it causes said second switch means to open from a closed state. and said second relay means being connected such that when activated it causes said first switch means to open. and said second switch means being biased to a closed state when said first relay means is not in an activated state.

5. A liquidftlling device of claim 4, including a third switch means located between said pump connector means. in one of said first and second leads. and a third relay means connected between said first lead and a fourth switch means mounted in series between said pump connector and one of said first and second leads with the fourth switch means being connected to close upon activation and to open upon deactivation of the third relay means. and a fuse means located electrical flow series after each of said third relay means and said emitter lead and within said second lead.

6. A liquid-filling device of claim 5. including a pump means operatively connected by said pump connector means to each of the first and second leads. the pump means including a vacuum-inlet conduit for drawing liquid to and through the pump and a liquid-outlet conduit for directing pump liquid to a predetermined source. the liquid outlet conduit including a nozzle element having the first and second probe means mounted thereon with the lower probe means being mounted in juxtaposition to a terminal end of the nozzle element on an exposed surface thereof. and with the upper probe means being mounted in space relationship away from the terminal end of the nozzle element on an exposed surface thereof.

7. A liquid-filling device of claim 6. including a liqaid-container vessel with said inlet conduit means operatively connected thereto for withdrawing liquid therefrom. said liquid-container vessel including wheel means for wheeling liquid contained in the liquidcontainer vessel. to a point of use.

8. A liquid-filling device of claim 7, in which said liquid-containcr vessel further includes a battery support

Claims

1. A liquid-filling device comprising in combination: a power source means providing a direct current circuitry; a first lead connected to a negative terminal of the power source means and a second lead connected to a positive terminal of the power source means; connector means for connecting a pump in parallel between said first and second leads; a transistor including collector, base, and emitter leads, with the transistor connected in parallel between the first and second leads by the collector lead being connected to the first lead and the emitter lead being connected to the second lead; a first probe means connected to the first lead, and a second probe means connected to the second lead, at least one of the first and second probe means being spaced above and apart from the other as an upper probe means probe means for completing circuitry with the other and lower probe means when liquid level of liquid in contact with the lower probe means is of sufficient height to establish contact with the upper probe means to thereby establish an electric current flow conductance; a first relay means connected in electric current flow series between the emitter lead and the second lead; first switch means for making and breaking circuitry through the connector means to the pump to thereby turn on and off a pump connected thereto, said first relay means being operatively connected for controlling said first switch means.

2. A liquid-filling device of claim 1, and a variable rheostat connected in series between said second probe means and said base lead for regulating the level of electricity conductance necessary to exist between the first and second probe means for initiating flow of current sufficient to activate said first relay means by way of the emitter of the transistor.

3. A liquid-filling device of claim 2, in which said upper probe means includes a plurality of probe elements in parallel mounted on support structure with at least a first pole element located above a second probe element and laterally off-set in vertical axial non-alignment with the second probe element.

4. A liquid-filling device of claim 3, and a second relay means and second switch means connected in series one with the other between said first lead and said second lead, said first relay means being connected such that when activated it causes said second switch means to open from a closed state, and said second relay means being connected such that when activated it causes said first switch means to open, and said second switch means being biased to a closed state when said first relay means is not in an activated state.

5. A liquid-filling device of claim 4, including a third switch means located between said pump connector means, in one of said first and second leads, and a third relay means connected between said first lead and a fourth switch means mounted in series between said pump connector and one of said first and second leads with the fourth switch means being connected to close upon activation and to open upon deactivation of the third relay means, and a fuse means located electrical flow series after each of said third relay means and said emitter lead and within said second lead.

6. A liquid-filling device of claim 5, including a pump means operatively connected by said pump connector means to each of the first and second leads, the pump means including a vacuum-inlet conduit for drawing liquid to and through the pump and a liquid-outlet conduit for directing pump liquid to a predetermined source, the liquid outlet conduit including a nozzle element having the first and second probe means mounted thereon with the lower probe means being mounted in juxtaposition to a terminal end of the nozzle element on an exposed surface thereof, and with the upper probe means being mounted in space relationship away from the terminal end of the nozzle element on an exposed surface thereof.

7. A liquid-filling device of claim 6, including a liquid-container vessel with said inlet conduit means operatively connected thereto for withdrawing liquid therefrom, said liquid-container vessel including wheel means for wheeling liquid contained in the liquid-container vessel, to a point of use.

8. A liquid-filling device of claim 7, in which said liquid-container vessel further includes a battery support and protective enclosing structure.

9. A liquid-filling device of claim 8, including indicator means for indicating when said first relay means is in an activated state.

10. A liquid-filling device of claim 9, including an off-on power-source indicator means for indicating when circuitry powered by the power means is in an activated and alternately in a deactivated state.

11. A liquid-filling device of claim 1, including indicator means for indicating when said first relay means is in an activated state.