Need some electronic engineering smart peoples help!

[astrobrew]

Strain gauge could be used with a meter but it cost would be high. You could use a one gallon tank that shuts off at a gallon with a float then open a valve to dump the tank in to the jug. The stainless float will cost a bit and 2 control valves.

Steve

[codewritinfool]

i like the old school weight idea, ive been thinking about that, but therres gotta be weight sensitive electrical measuring device somehow. Or i may have to mcgruber a old school scale somehow.
-C

There are several. It could be as simple as a mechanical arm linked to a switch or a potentiometer. There are others that are capacitive. One commonly used weight-measurement device is called a load cell.

One way to hack it together would be to use a digital scale with an LED display, and put a full jug on it, then calibrate it by adding weight until an otherwise off segment lights up. Then use that segment to drive a relay or whatever to shut off your filler.

For example, you could put a full jug on such a scale and add weight until the "1" in 100 lbs lights up. Then use one of those segments for your "full" detector. Just an idea. You'd have to experiment with the accuracy and repeatability of such a hack, though.

Here are some links for you:
http://www.tekscan.com/flexiforce.html
http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSea ... oad%20cell

[Padronis]

This I think would be your ideal circuit. It is very simple. Basically you get your container in place and hit a start button then when it is full whatever you are using to control the circuit (light sensor, button under a scale, whatever) automatically shuts it off then you start over with the next container. All that is needed is a pushbutton start, your fill level controlling device (stop "button"), an ice cube relay with the proper voltage and amperage rating, and your solenoid.

[Crut]

Thanks guys, im gonna be workin on this hopefully this winter and have it ready for next apple season.
-Crut