Patent ID: 6502451
Filing Date: 2003-01-07
Classification: G01F,G01M,G06Q,G07F

Abstract:
A liquid dispensing apparatus for dispensing a liquid, said apparatus comprising:a flow meter having flow rate detection means; a latching solenoid valve operative with the flow meter for metering the liquid being dispensed; a leakage detection means for detecting liquid leaking from the liquid dispensing apparatus, the leakage detection means including a diaphragm located radially to a direction of flow of liquid through the liquid dispensing apparatus, a magnet provided on the diaphragm and displaceable by the diaphragm in sympathy with fluctuations in pressure exerted on the diaphragm, and a detection switch actuatable by proximity to the magnet located on the liquid dispensing apparatus for detecting displacement of the magnet towards the detection switch; processing means for comparing signals from said flow rate detection means and said leakage detection means; and control means for interrupting the flow of liquid, wherein said control means interrupts the flow of liquid when (1) said leakage detection means detects a flow of liquid, and (2) said flow rate detection means does not indicate at least a minimum predetermined flow rate.