Patents by Inventor Christopher T. Vannoy

Christopher T. Vannoy has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5830348
    Abstract: The fuel filter/regulator assembly comprises a cylindrical body open at one end and closed at its opposite end by an annular wall having a pocket for receiving the regulator. The annular fuel filter is received in the body and has an inner end cap configured to bear against and receive an upper portion of the regulator. A further end cap closes the open end of the body and bears against the fuel filter element. A fuel inlet is provided and all components of the housing are formed of stainless steel. In another form, a wave spring is employed to accommodate stack-up tolerances of the fuel filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Siemens Automotive Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher T. Vannoy, James A. Wynn, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5509444
    Abstract: A flow through pressure regulator as may be used in a fuel delivery system for a motor vehicle has a contained, but floating ball valve. The ball valve open and closes a central passageway through the diaphragm of the regulator. The diaphragm divides the interior of the regulator into 2 chambers, both of which has fuel. A retainer means supports the ball and allows both axial and radial movement and coupled with a small bias spring seating in a bore, the ball functions to automatically seat itself. The small bias spring does not interfere with the ball valve seating itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: Siemens Automotive Corporation
    Inventors: Barry S. Robinson, Jan L. Bennett, Christopher T. Vannoy