Abstract: A system for controlling the starting time of a thermal conditioning system for air in an enclosed space includes a pneumatic temperature transmitter, a pressure chamber, bleed device, and a valve for selectively providing communications either between the temperature transmitter and the pressure chamber (first position) or the pressure chamber and bleed device (second position). When a timing device is turned off at a predetermined time the valve is actuated into the first position. The pressure in the pressure chamber then rises and actuates a switch to shut off the thermal conditioning system. The pneumatic temperature transmitter then senses a temperature which is indicative of the amount of thermal conditioning necessary to bring the temperature of the air in the enclosed space to a desired level by a predetermined time and generates in response thereto an air pressure signal.

Abstract: An improved thermostat having two modes of operation selected by a pressure signal from a central source, which includes a separate set point for each mode of operation. Each set point has a scale which is clearly visible without removal of any parts of the thermostat. Each set point is also adjustable either by an adjuster that can be operated by occupants or only by authorized personnel having a tool fitting the opening in the set point adjustor. Adjustors can be provided with restrictors which limit set point adjustment to a predetermined range of temperatures and which can be adjustable by authorized personnel, or can be factory set.

Abstract: An underground liquid storage tank is encapsulated in hardened plastic foam in a shipping carton by in situ foaming. The tank has pipe fittings that extend through the foam and abut the inside of the carton. The carton is marked on the outside with indicia to show the location of the fittings beneath the material of the carton. The tank is left in the carton perpetually from the time it leaves the plant. The ultimate user never unpacks the carton but merely buries the tank, carton and all, with the side of the carton uppermost that bears the indicia. He then cuts out the carton as indicated by the indicia, which exposes the pipe fittings, connects the necessary plumbing, and then fills the hole with dirt. The plastic foam performs the unique dual function not only of protecting the tank during shipping, but also of protecting the tank underground. The carton performs the unique dual function not only of confining the foam, but also of preventing the pipe fittings from being masked by foam.

Abstract: A fluid flow regulating device for use in fluid handling systems which is capable of maintaining substantially constant flow rates over a wide range of variations in system pressure. The device includes a housing having disposed therein a conduit whose lateral wall includes one or more apertures of a predetermined configuration. A piston is disposed within the conduit and is axially displaceable, in response to pressure differentials, throughout the portion of the conduit wherein the apertures are located. A spring mechanism having a specified non-linear coefficient of stiffness is employed to yieldably resist downstream displacement of the piston. The piston and aperture together form a variable area flow passageway through which substantially all the fluid must pass. A pneumatic, thermometric mechanism may also be employed to displace the piston within the conduit in response to changes in temperature and independent of pressure variations.

Abstract: A backflow preventer in a fluid conduit permits flow from the inlet to the outlet of the preventer when the inlet is pressurized and prevents reverse flow upon termination of flow through the preventer. An apertured diaphragm between the inlet and outlet closes a valve seat between the outlet and a vent passage when the inlet is relatively pressurized. A check member upstream of the diaphragm closes the diaphragm aperture if the outlet is relatively pressurized and maintains the diaphragm aperture closed upon pressurization of the inlet until after closing of the vent valve seat. A second vent communicates with the interior of the preventer and is closed by a portion of the diaphragm upon pressurization of the interior. A relief port in the chamber includes a temperature responsive element that opens the relief port once ambient temperature reaches a preselected level. The inlet includes an internally threaded sleeve within the housing that may be secured to an externally threaded fluid hydrant.

Abstract: A hydrant for controlling the flow of water from an underground supply includes a casing connected at its lower end to the supply and its upper end to a nozzle for delivery of water from the casing. The flow of water from the supply to the casing is controlled by a main valve operated by a handle on the hydrant casing. An ejector purge apparatus drains the casing after the flow of water through the casing has been terminated by the main valve in order to prevent frost damage. The ejector purge apparatus includes a purge valve controlling flow from the supply through a conduit to a location outside of the hydrant casing. The conduit includes a flow constricting element and a port adjacent the flow constricting element that is in fluid communication with the casing. Flow through the purge valve and the flow constricting element results in venturi evacuation of the water within the casing.