Patents by Inventor Donald C. Dowling

Donald C. Dowling 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: 5857482
    Abstract: An overflow control system includes a vessel having a liquid input and output, the vessel having a top and bottom defined by the gravity vector. The system further includes a housing peripherally surrounding the vessel about all surfaces, other than the bottom, to provide a fluid and thermal insulation region between the vessel and the housing. The system also includes a liquid collection chamber formed integrally beneath the vessel and housing, and in fluid communication with the insulation region. A leak or fracture of the vessel will result in an accumulation of liquid in the collection chamber. The system further includes a normally open electrically actuatable solenoid disposed within the liquid input. Within the liquid output of the vessel is provided a check valve for closing the output responsive to any gradient of fluid pressure in the direction of the vessel in excess of a reference level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventor: Donald C. Dowling
  • Patent number: 5029605
    Abstract: There is provided a system for blocking the inflow of water to an appliance such as a hot water tank in the event of a leak in the appliance or water supply thereto. A low voltage current solenoid selectively blocks said inflow in response to a leak. No current is drawn during normal operation of the appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1991
    Inventors: Donald C. Dowling, Bruce Olsson