Apparatus for monitoring and controlling vessels containing liquid

Abstract

Apparatus for determining the level of liquid in a vessel, e.g., storage tank comprises a plurality of indicators at varying heights along the vessel acting to indicate the presence of the liquid level at a given height; a controller to receive signals from the indicators and translate such signals into liquid level height; a memory device to store information from the controller for future use; and a display system to receive signals from the controller and provide a visual display of the liquid level height in the vessel. Preferably, the apparatus also includes a central monitoring station where signals from a plurality of controllers are received so that the liquid levels in a plurality of vessels can be displayed. In additional preferred embodiments, the controller can collect information regarding vessel liquid temperature and/or the status of pumps, valves and the like which can change the liquid level in the vessel. A further embodiment is disclosed in which the controller sends out signals to alter the status of one or more of such pumps, valves and the like.