Patent ID: 8151580
Filing Date: 2012-04-10
Classification: F24F,G01F,H01H

Abstract:
1. A fluid-sensing switch system for use in monitoring fluid levels in the primary drain pan within a fluid-producing unit having a weep hole and optionally for simultaneous monitoring of fluid levels in a secondary drain pan having vertically-extending walls that is placed at least in part under the fluid-producing unit, said fluid-sensing switch system comprising: a plug configured for connection to the weep hole of a fluid producing unit, said plug having an open end and an opposed partially closed end with a central opening; a first fluid sensor configured and electrically connected to provide a first power potential, said first fluid sensor having a proximal end positioned within said plug and a distal end extending beyond said plug; a second fluid sensor configured and electrically connected to provide a second power potential, with said second power potential being a neutral potential, said second fluid sensor having a proximal end positioned within said plug; a resilient piece configured to surround all of said first fluid sensor except said distal end and maintain fixed positioning of said first fluid sensor relative to said plug, said resilient piece further having opposing cone-shaped ends with the one of said cone-shaped ends adjacent to said distal end of said rust fluid sensor being configured to provide a drip path to wick fluid away from said distal end; an outer case; a signal-generating module positioned within said outer case and secured in fixed relation thereto; electrical wiring connected between said plug and said outer case that is connected to provide electrical communication between said first fluid sensor and said signal-generating module, and also connected to provide electrical communication between said second fluid sensor and said signal-generating module; and at least one signal output wire electrically connected to said signal-generating module so that when said plug is secured to the weep hole connected to a primary drain pan inside a fluid-producing unit and said at least one signal output wire is also electrically connected to the fluid-producing unit, said first fluid sensor will be positioned to monitor rising fluid in the primary drain wherein when the rising fluid exceeds a pre-determined threshold amount said electrical wiring will carry electrical communication from first fluid sensor and said second fluid sensor to said signal-generating module, which will generate a shut-off signal that will travel via said at least one signal output wire to the fluid-producing unit and cause fluid production to be stopped.