With Pressure-responsive Pressure-control Means Patents (Class 137/224)
  • Patent number: 11858391
    Abstract: A motor vehicle seat having a backrest and a seat part, at least one flexible, fluid-fillable hollow body attached to the seat part or the backrest, and at least two chambers that are in fluid communication with one another. The chambers are arranged one on top of the other and have in their walls corresponding passages which enable a fluid exchange between the chambers. The chambers are firmly connected to one another in the region of the passages, wherein the volume of the lowermost chamber adjacent to the seat part or the backrest is the largest and the volume of each additional chamber is smaller compared with the volume of the chamber below it. The chambers are arranged one on top of the other such that the maximum lift of the fluid-fillable hollow body when it is being filled with fluid is outside the center of the lowermost chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignees: Faurecia Autositze GmbH, Honda Motor Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Daria Ryszawa, Wojciech Kowalewski, Lukasz Kunicki, Jacek Lasak, Aleksander Lwow, Fumiya Makiguchi
  • Patent number: 11845308
    Abstract: A safety valve replaces a tire valve. The valve includes a generally elongate hollow main body having an upper portion, a lower flex hose connector, a side tubular branch having a valve seat with a ball valve, an electronics housing having a battery, motor and a drive pin for the ball valve. The lower flex hose connector is adapted for connection to a flex hose or valve stem of the vehicle tire. The side branch branches from the main body and communicates with the hollow interior of the main body. The side branch has a plurality of air exit apertures at its periphery. The valve seat includes a base with an aperture therein through which the drive pin can extend through to engage the ball valve. The ball valve sits in the base and is biased in the valve seat via a spring to cover the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2023
    Inventor: James Andrew McGhee
  • Patent number: 11766136
    Abstract: This disclosure describes, among other things, techniques for waking a user by changing the user's sleep environment. In one example, a method includes receiving, at a central controller of an air mattress system, at least one user alarm setting, generating, via the central controller, at least one instruction based on the received user alarm setting, and transmitting, from the central controller, the at least one instruction to a first component of the air mattress system to adjust a feature of the first component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: Sleep Number Corporation
    Inventors: Rob Nunn, Wade Daniel Palashewski, Matthew Wayne Tilstra, Stacy Stusynski, Steven Jay Young, Carl Hewitt
  • Patent number: 11760141
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for providing a tire pressure enhancing device for increasing the air pressure of tires mounted on a vehicle. For example, an air compressor may be coupled to an engine of a vehicle to compress air. The compressed air is then stored in the frame of the vehicle. The compressed air may be transferred to each tire through a hose via an access point in the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: TOYOTA MOTOR ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Stuart Roger Wuerthele, Paxton S. Williams
  • Patent number: 11371624
    Abstract: There is provided a flow-blocking safety valve to prevent an explosion of a portable gas container, wherein, when the portable gas container overheats during use and the temperature rises above a predetermined level, a bridge hold supporting a pin of the safety valve melts and thus a pin or ball securely supported in the bridge holder becomes free to move to close a flow channel through which the gas flows, thereby blocking the gas discharge and preventing an accident occurring when the gas container bursts by overheating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: DAERYUK CAN CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Bong June Park
  • Patent number: 11320843
    Abstract: The air compression system includes an air compressor and a detection device. A first pressure transducer is provided to measure an air pressure at an output port of the air compressor. A second pressure transducer in the detection device measures an air pressure in a channel of the detection device. A conduit in the detection device regulates an air flow to be compatible with that flowing through the inlet of the aerated object. The measurements from the first pressure transducer and the second pressure transducer are transmitted to and compared by a first control circuit of the air compressor, and an internal pressure of the aerated object is estimated. When the estimated internal pressure of the aerated object is smaller than a desired pressure, the air compressor pumps air into the object through the conduit of the detection device in a linear manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: DONGGUAN HESHENG MACHINERY & ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chi-Wen Chen
  • Patent number: 11155126
    Abstract: A controller for controlling a pneumatic control valve (PCV) in a central tire inflation system (CTIS). The controller includes an electronic processor having an electrical input for receiving a supply-side pressure signal. The electronic processor is configured to control a first control valve (VINSS) to generate a pneumatic control signal for changing an operating state of a pneumatic control valve (PCV). The electronic processor also monitors the supply-side pressure signal and identifies a change in the operating state of the pneumatic control valve (PCV) in dependence on a change in the supply-side pressure. The electronic processor is configured to output a first valve close signal upon determining that the pneumatic control valve (PCV) has changed operating state. Also provided is a CTIS incorporating a controller; to a vehicle; and to a method of controlling a pneumatic control valve (PCV).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: JAGUAR LAND ROVER LIMITED
    Inventor: Paul King
  • Patent number: 11117426
    Abstract: A rotary transmission leadthrough is part of a tire pressure control system for a tire of a vehicle, the tire having a hub mounted in a rotatable manner on an axle, the rotary leadthrough having a stator unit mounted on the axle of the tire in such a manner that its position in the axial direction is adjustable relative to the axle. The stator unit has a disc like end member and a bearing member extending in the axial direction from the end member with a bearing surface on its outer radial surface, the end member projecting outwards in a radial direction from the bearing surface. The bearing member retains an inner bearing shell of a rolling bearing carrying the hub. A connector is mounted on the end member connected to an air supply of the tire pressure control system, and an air conduit connecting the connector with an air passage extending in the axial direction under the bearing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: PTG REIFENDRUCKREGELSYSTEME GMBH
    Inventor: Martin Tigges
  • Patent number: 11001109
    Abstract: A custom valve stem is adapted to fit in a conventional valve stem opening in a tire rim. The valve stem has a primary air channel for a conventional Schrader-type valve. The valve stem also has a secondary air channel extending within the valve stem between a base of the valve stem and an outlet through the material of the valve stem to atmosphere outside of the valve stem. The outlet can have a screen as a debris air filter. An optional tire pressure monitoring system TPMS sensor couples to the primary air channel independent of the secondary air channel. The secondary air channel comprises an atmospheric hose coupled to an electric air compressor and rechargeable battery disposed within a pressure cavity of the tire for maintaining tire pressure. A motion activated power generator disposed within the pressure cavity recharges the rechargeable electric storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: UNICUS INNOVATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Richard William Del Olmo, Armand Joseph Gasbarro, Randall Cary Kramer
  • Patent number: 10953705
    Abstract: The invention provides an automatic constant pressure device for a hub tire system. The device comprises a valve nozzle, air pipes, valves, a pneumatic slip ring, a hub, a pressure relief valve, a tire, a main shaft, an air storage tank, a vehicle-mounted air source and the like. Two valve holes are machined in the hub of the device. The valve nozzle with a tire pressure sensor is installed at one valve hole, and the pressure relief valve is installed at the other valve hole. The tire pressure is detected by the tire pressure sensor. The valve is controlled to inflate through the valve nozzle, and the pressure relief valve is controlled to relieve the pressure. The device has the characteristics of scientific detection principle, simple and reasonable structure and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: CITIC Dicastal Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jinqi Lyu, Zhipeng Li, Hanbao Sun, Hongfu Jin, Yanfu Xu, Yingfeng Wang, Chunhai Liu, Zhihua Zhu
  • Patent number: 10926587
    Abstract: A tire pressure regulating system is disclosed for adjusting tire pressures of pneumatic tires of vehicle wheels of a plurality of vehicle axles of a motor vehicle while driving. The tire pressure regulating system comprises: at least one switchover valve, an axle valve, a wheel valve and a valve. A motor vehicle comprising the tire pressure regulating system is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: WABCO GMBH
    Inventors: Michael Haverkamp, Dennis Sabelhaus, Thomas Stellmacher
  • Patent number: 10926588
    Abstract: A combination air supply system for a work vehicle, includes a work vehicle compressor configured to be mounted on the work vehicle, wherein the work vehicle compressor is configured to compress a first supply of ambient air and to output a first compressed air supply via a compressed air line, wherein the compressed air line is configured to receive a second compressed air supply from an implement compressor via a compressed air connection line, wherein the implement compressor is configured to be mounted on an implement towed by the work vehicle, wherein the compressed air connection line is configured to couple the implement compressor to the compressed air line via a coupler, and a tire inflation system fluidly coupled to the compressed air line and configured to selectively increase and decrease an air pressure within a tire of the work vehicle, wherein the tire inflation system is configured to distribute the first compressed air supply, the second compressed air supply, and a combination air supply of
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Stefano Fiorati, Eran Salzman, DarĂ­an E. Landolt
  • Patent number: 10837452
    Abstract: An air pump system includes a housing defining a first vent in fluid communication with an interior cavity of an inflatable member, a first one-way valve configured to open or close the first vent, a main pump having a main pump inlet and a main pump outlet, a valve control assembly for selectively opening or closing the one-way valve, an air pressure control assembly for sensing an air pressure of the interior cavity and generating a first air pressure signal when the air pressure reaches a first threshold air pressure, and generating a second air pressure signal when the air pressure reaches a second threshold air pressure, and a control device in electrical communication with the main pump, valve control assembly and the air pressure control assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: BESTWAY INFLATABLES & MATERIAL CORP.
    Inventors: Shuiyong Huang, Wanbin Qiu, Ruoxun Yin
  • Patent number: 10828940
    Abstract: A method of decreasing tire pressure includes opening a wheel valve (22) to allow pressurized air from a tire (10) to be directed to a first valve assembly (14) and to atmosphere. A target pressure is selected for a fluid control conduit (28). The fluid conduit (28) is in fluid communication with the first valve assembly (14) and a second or control valve assembly (30). The pressure in the fluid conduit (28) is measured. If the measured pressure is greater than the target pressure, then the second valve assembly (30) is de-energized. If the measured pressure is less than the target pressure, then the second valve assembly (30) is energized. A valve (42) prone to leak under very low temperatures may be subjected to repeated cycles of pressure application and pressure release in order to form a fluid-tight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: DANA HEAVY VEHICLE SYSTEMS GROUP, LLC
    Inventors: Kurt P. Gillen, Venkata Ramakanth Kona
  • Patent number: 10808710
    Abstract: A method for inflating an inflatable member includes providing an inflatable member including an outer surface defining an interior cavity, a housing defining a first vent in fluid communication with the interior cavity, a first one-way valve configured to open or close the first vent, a main pump having a main pump inlet and a main pump outlet, a valve control assembly for selectively opening or closing the one-way valve, providing an air pressure control assembly for sensing air pressure of the interior cavity, generating a first air pressure signal when the air pressure reaches a first threshold air pressure and generating a second air pressure signal when the air pressure reaches a second threshold air pressure, and providing a control device in electrical communication with the main pump, valve control assembly and air pressure control assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: BESTWAY INFLATABLES & MATERIAL CORP.
    Inventors: Shuiyong Huang, Wanbin Qiu, Ruoxun Yin
  • Patent number: 10794504
    Abstract: A high pressure cartridge inflator has a body including an air inlet port connectible to a high pressure cartridge, an air outlet port connectible to a valve of an object to be inflated, an air discharge port, and defining a first channel extending from the air let port to the air outlet port and a second channel extending from the first channel to the air discharge port. A pressure indicator is disposed within the body and is fluidly connected to the first and second channels. A safety device is disposed in the second channel and is configured to selectively prevent and allow high pressure air in the high pressure cartridge to flow out of the body through the air discharge port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Inventor: Louis Chuang
  • Patent number: 10780996
    Abstract: An apparatus and method to equalize the pressure in multiple tires supported by a single axle or strut of an airplane is shown. A control block connects the pressurized gas to a distribution block and meter. From the distribution block high pressure lines and no-loss chuck valves connect the pressurized gas to the multiple tires. Steps to be followed as programmed in the meter include startup, testing, calibration, setup and finalize. A permanent record of the steps in equalizing tire pressures is maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: Three Zero Right, LLC
    Inventors: Ronald R. Sallman, Mark Drew Holland
  • Patent number: 10737542
    Abstract: A tire inflation system for use with a vehicle includes an airflow regulator configured to adjust a tire pressure of an inflatable tire coupled to an axle included in a wheel-axle system of a vehicle. The tire inflation system may further include a controller including a processor and a memory, the memory having stored therein a plurality of instructions that when executed by the processor cause the controller to receive data indicative of a force load acting on the axle and adjust the airflow regulator to cause the airflow regulator to control the tire pressure of the inflatable tire based on the data indicative of the force load acting on the axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.
    Inventor: Rodney P. Ehrlich
  • Patent number: 10703149
    Abstract: Air valve for a pneumatic tire has a threaded shaft between a first end defining an air inlet and an opposite, second end that is located within the bounded space of a tire mounted on a rim. The air passageway through the air valve has at least one outlet at the distal end of the valve that exists the device through a side portion rather than the terminal end of the device. In a preferred embodiment the air passageway is T-shaped so that air flowing into the tire flows in a non-linear path, exiting the air outlets transverse to the air flow through the inlet into the air passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: CushCore Inc.
    Inventor: Adam Krefting
  • Patent number: 10596864
    Abstract: A tire inflation system safety valve includes at least an air line disposed between a rotary union and a tire communicating with an axle supporting a hubcap, the rotary union axially aligned with the axle and mounted to the hubcap. The air line facilitating pressurized air transferred between the rotary union and the tire. The tire inflation system safety valve including at least a valve housing providing a valve activation chamber, a fluid conduit, supported by the valve housing, having a downstream end and an upstream end and in fluid communication with the valve activation chamber, and a diaphragm disposed within the valve activation chamber and communicating with the fluid conduit. The diaphragm, in response to the pressurized air of a predetermined pressure, automatically precludes air transfer between the upstream end of the fluid conduit and the downstream end of the fluid conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: Airgo IP, LLC
    Inventors: Kyle J. Berkness, Daniel P. Dooley
  • Patent number: 10571355
    Abstract: Aspects of the invention include methods and systems for a testing mechanism to be utilized when repairing and replacing a valve utilized on a tank car. The testing mechanism may comprise a pipe plug device configured to plug a siphon pipe located on a tank car and a pressure test device to conduct a leak detect test after the pipe plug device is removed from the siphon pipe. The pipe plug device may include a pipe plug bladder and a pipe plug pressure fitting to inflate and deflate the pipe plug bladder against a wall of the siphon pipe. The pressure test device may include a pressure test valve cap with a test valve bladder located on the pressure test valve cap, a bladder pressure fitting to inflate and deflate the test valve bladder, and a test pressure fitting to pressurize a valve, the test pressure fitting located on the pressure test valve cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: Union Tank Car Company
    Inventors: Jay Lloyd, John Kolb, Greg Cieslak, Neil Finn
  • Patent number: 10563783
    Abstract: In a general aspect, a pressure regulating device helps achieve a correct inflation pressure of an inflatable object. In some aspects, an inflation device includes an inlet, and outlet, and a vent port. The inflation device also includes one or more interior surfaces that define a gas-delivery pathway fluidly-coupling the inlet and the outlet. A flow restriction is disposed along the gas-delivery pathway between the inlet and the outlet. Moreover, an opening is disposed along the gas-delivery pathway adjacent the flow restriction and downstream thereof. The inflation device also includes a gas-exhaust pathway fluidly-coupling the opening and the vent port. A first chamber of the gas-exhaust pathway is in fluid communication with the opening, and a second chamber of the gas-exhaust pathway is in fluid communication with the vent port. A pressure-relief valve is configured to control gas flow between the first chamber and the second chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: Innoflate, LLC
    Inventor: Grahm Collins Roach
  • Patent number: 10471783
    Abstract: A vehicle-tire pressure-level regulator has a pressure vent cooperable with an actuator for pressure release and a pump for pressure recovery. The actuator and the pump motor are respectively electronically controlled to adjust the tire pressure in relation to high and low thresholds above and below a desired operating pressure throughout a race. The pressure vent does not operate if an accelerometer detects that the tire is distorted because the vehicle is turning. If the vehicle is not turning and the high pressure threshold is reached, the vent is opened. If the low pressure threshold is reached the pump is activated until the tire is restored to the desired operating pressure. Operation of the vent may be controlled to provide different rates of outlet flow as real-time pressure may require. Operation of the vent may be prevented if a transient pressure spike occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Inventor: Tommy A. Worth
  • Patent number: 10466045
    Abstract: The subject fluid gauges measure actual position of a workpiece relative to a target position. A gauge body that is positionable relative to the workpiece and that includes multiple differential-pressure (DP) sensors has a measurement channel and respective reference channels. Each DP sensor measures, over a respective individual dynamic pressure range, a differential pressure established by a respective fluid flow in the measurement channel relative to a fluid flow in a respective reference channel. The dynamic pressure ranges of the DP sensors substantially overlap each other. A controller is connected to and monitors the DP sensors. The controller is configured to select, for obtaining a differential pressure indicative of the position of the workpiece, a DP sensor sensing the smallest magnitude of DP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventor: Michael Sogard
  • Patent number: 10464379
    Abstract: A tire pressure management system for a truck or trailer having a first tire and a second tire, an air pressure supply sealingly connected to the first tire and to the second tire for communication of pressurized air therebetween, and an electronic pressure regulator configured to receive a signal from a load management system and automatically adjust the air pressure setting based on the signal so as to regulate the pressure of air passing from the air pressure supply to the first and second tires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: Equalaire Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Kevin Hennig
  • Patent number: 10431016
    Abstract: A method is provided for recording or documentation of an operation of one or more implements configured to be hitched to a utility vehicle. The method includes generating an identification information item associated with each implement, and providing the identification information item with an identification coding. The identification coding is different for each of the one or more implements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventor: Valentin Gresch
  • Patent number: 10323760
    Abstract: A valve assembly configured for use with an inflatable product, such as a mattress, chair, pool, spa, float, or another suitable inflatable product. The valve assembly includes a first valve component that serves as an opening for inflation and/or deflation of the inflatable product, and a second valve component that serves as an opening for deflation or decompression of the inflatable product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: Intex Marketing Ltd.
    Inventors: Hua Hsiang Lin, Yaw Yuan Hsu
  • Patent number: 10240592
    Abstract: A portable air compressor including a housing, an air compressing assembly within the housing, the air compressing assembly including a switch, a motor, a gear assembly, and a piston, and a storage unit integrated as part of the housing and retaining a power cord and an adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: Telebrands Corp.
    Inventor: Ajit Khubani
  • Patent number: 10220657
    Abstract: A tire pressurization arrangement on a vehicle in which the pressurization of the tire is controlled by a vehicle control unit and the vehicle control unit is notified of a desired tire pressure or desired tire volume. An air flow rate in a supply line to the tire is established so that the time to pressurize the tire to the desired tire pressure/volume is calculable, or the time taken to pressurize the tire to an interval pressure/volume is calculable, said interval pressure/volume being between a current tire pressure/volume and the desired pressure/volume, and if the time to pressurize the tire to the desired pressure is exceeded, the control unit gives a warning signal and/or stops deflation or inflation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: AGCO Incorporated GmbH
    Inventors: Bernhard Hoeldrich, Frank Kreulich, Christian Pischulti, Stefan Prestel, Alexander Staedele, Benjamin Schmoelz
  • Patent number: 10160269
    Abstract: An air supply system on a vehicle having a tire. The system includes a compressor having a supply mode for supplying air to a consumer connected to the compressor. The consumer is provided with a reservoir and the compressor switches to an idle mode when the pressure of the reservoir attains a first predetermined reservoir pressure. During a supply period when the consumer is supplied with air from the compressor, the pressure of at least one tire is measured and prior to a subsequent tire pressure measurement, air is discharged from the reservoir so that the compressor remains in the supply mode and the consumer and/or reservoir continues to be supplied with air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: AGCO International GmbH
    Inventors: Alexander Staedele, Christian Pischulti
  • Patent number: 10101233
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for a switched, multiple range sensor system including multiple transducers. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes receiving and measuring at a first transducer and a second transducer, a pressure to generate a respective first and second pressure signal; amplifying the first and second pressure signals with corresponding first and second fixed-gain amplifier to generate first and second amplified pressure signals; selecting for monitoring, the first or second amplified pressure signal; converting the selected amplified pressure signal to an intermediate digital pressure signal; measuring, at a thermal sensor associated with the selected amplified pressure signal, a temperature; compensating, based on the measured temperature, the intermediate digital pressure signal to generate a compensated digital pressure output signal; and outputting the compensated digital pressure output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2018
    Assignee: Kulite Semiconductor Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph VanDeWeert, Haig Norian
  • Patent number: 10076936
    Abstract: A pressure indicator device for a flat tire repair kit for motor vehicles, in which the flat tire repair kit includes a compressor and a pressure outlet and the pressure indicator device (1.1-1.3) is an indicator for a pressure that the compressor of the flat tire repair kit produces in a tire that is being filled and includes a base body, a conduit (4.1-4.3), an optical element, an acoustic element, and a throttle (5.1-5.3); and the throttle (5.1-5.3) includes an adjustable throttle valve, wherein the conduit (4.1-4.3) is operationally connected to the optical element and the acoustic element; an air flow (L) through the conduit that the air pressure produces in the base body is deflected into a horizontal and/or an inclined horizontal direction, and an indicator element of the optical element can be moved in the horizontal and/or inclined horizontal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventor: Martin P. Spindler
  • Patent number: 10073471
    Abstract: A pneumatic control and measuring device and seat comfort system with such a device. The pneumatic control and measuring device includes a valve and a pressure sensor, wherein the valve includes an input channel, a pressure channel, an output channel and a sealing element switched or switchable by an actuator. The sealing element is configured to connect the input channel with the pressure channel in that a supply pressure provided in the compressed air supply channel is or can be provided at an output connection of the valve fluidically communicating with the pressure channel. A pressure sensor for capturing a pressure present at the output connection is a printed-circuit-board-integrated pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: Kendrion Kuhnke Automotive GmbH
    Inventor: Jan Derjong
  • Patent number: 10059155
    Abstract: A method of inflating and deflating a tire on a vehicle, said vehicle having a rotatable air passage connectable to a tire and a non rotatable air passage through which air is conducted from a pressurized air supply. One of the passages has an associated sealing means for co-operating with a contact component associated with the other passage and wherein prior to inflation and deflation of the tire, one of the passages is pressurized to ensure the integrity of the sealing means with the contact component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: AGCO International GmbH
    Inventors: Bernhard Hoeldrich, Frank Kreulich, Alexander Staedele
  • Patent number: 10052920
    Abstract: A tire air pressure deflation system comprising an air delivery system having gas communication with at least one vehicle tire, the air delivery system maintaining the desired tire pressure, and an adjustable air control system adapted to control the air pressure maintained in the air delivery system and supply or expel the air from the tire, the air control system having a starting pressure setting, and a finishing pressure setting lower than the starting pressure setting, the finishing pressure setting having an active pressure setting lower than the finishing pressure setting. Upon activation of the tire air pressure deflation system, the tire deflates to the active pressure setting and the air control system deactivates upon reaching the finishing pressure setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: AGRIBRINK HOLDINGS LTD.
    Inventors: Jake Kraayenbrink, Steve Bailey, Maurice Veldhuis
  • Patent number: 10040325
    Abstract: An exhaust stem for use with a valve assembly is provided. The exhaust stem is a hollow body which comprises an inner surface, a distal end, and an outer surface. The inner surface forms a portion of a fluid conduit through the exhaust stem. The distal end is shaped to sealingly engage a valve of the valve assembly. The outer surface defines a plurality of turbulence reducing protuberances. The plurality of turbulence reducing protuberances distributes a fluid within a valve housing of the valve assembly to facilitate operation of the valve assembly. The valve assembly decreases an amount of fluid turbulence in a tire inflation system, provides greater flexibility in configuring the tire inflation system, and facilitates accurate control of a pressure within individual tires of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: Dana Heavy Vehicle Systems Group, LLC
    Inventors: Kurt Gillen, Lloyd G. Racine
  • Patent number: 9956831
    Abstract: The present disclosure includes a combination sensor and pressure relief valve. The combination sensor and valve may be used with existing aircraft wheel systems. Wheel systems utilizing the combination sensor and valve are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: GOODRICH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Paul Summers, Steven Keller, Scott Whittle
  • Patent number: 9937760
    Abstract: A self-regulating tire valve for use in pneumatic tires. The self-regulating tire valve includes a tubular housing with a primary channel extending therethrough, a threaded collar on one end of the tubular housing adapted to connect to a source of pressurized air, a cavity positioned adjacent to the primary channel, and a release passageway connecting to a release outlet positioned on the exterior of the tubular housing. A diverting block is positioned with a secondary channel extending therethrough that is moveably positioned within the cavity. When the secondary channel of the diverting block is aligned with the release passageway, air can flow from a second end to a first end of the secondary channel, through the release passageway and exit at the release outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventor: Jeremy Austin
  • Patent number: 9873295
    Abstract: A vehicle axle assembly is provided having a hub which is mounted on a cylindrical axle body by way of a ball bearing so as to be rotatable about a central longitudinal axis, wherein the ball bearing has an inner race connected to the axle body and has an outer race connected to the hub. The vehicle axle assembly includes an axially inner shaft sealing ring and an axially outer shaft sealing ring which are sealingly arranged between the two races and which delimit a ring-shaped chamber between the two races a first pressure medium line which extends through the inner race or one of the two shaft sealing rings and which opens into the ring-shaped chamber; and a second pressure medium line which extends from the ring-shaped chamber through the outer race and which is configured to be connected to a wheel fastened on the hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: GV ENGINEERING GMBH
    Inventor: Konstantinos Tsiberidis
  • Patent number: 9868046
    Abstract: A system and method for easily and frequently checking the gas bladder pressure levels in a sports player's helmet and refilling them to maintain optimum head protection for the player. The system and method involve an electronic hand-held gas pump that wirelessly communicates with an adjacent wireless device that comprises a software application for controlling pump operation. The software application allows a user to build a player helmet profile that automatically displays current gas pressure in the gas bladder to which the pump is currently connected. The system and method establish a preferred gas pressure level for every bladder in the helmet when the helmet is being worn and when the helmet is not being worn. Spreadsheets for an entire team can be generated, not only depicting the preferred gas pressure levels but time/date data for periodic checks in order to maintain every bladder to its preferred gas pressure level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Inventor: Michael T. Weatherby
  • Patent number: 9815340
    Abstract: A system and method of controlling pressure of a tire. The method may include executing a low supply pressure operating mode when an available supply pressure of pressurized gas is less than a target tire pressure. The tire may be inflated with pressurized gas provided at the available supply pressure when an estimated tire pressure is not within a threshold amount of the available supply pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Robert W. Trostle, Jonathan Honig, John Ustick, Stephen Rumple, Jonathan Stauffer
  • Patent number: 9796224
    Abstract: An air maintenance tire assembly includes a tire having a tire cavity bounded by first and second sidewalls extending to a tire tread region, an air pump for generating pressurized air for maintaining air pressure within the tire cavity at a preset pressure level, and a valve housing disposed adjacent an outward end of the valve stem and operative to selectively open and close pressurized air flow from the valve stem internal passageway into the tire cavity. The first sidewall has at least one bending region operatively bending within a rolling tire footprint and a sidewall groove defined by groove sidewalls positioned within the bending region of the first tire sidewall. The groove deforms segment by segment between a non-deformed state and a deformed, constricted state in response to the bending of the first sidewall bending region within the rolling tire footprint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventors: Robin Lamgaday, Cheng-Hsiung Lin, Arun Kumar Byatarayanapura Gopala
  • Patent number: 9796223
    Abstract: An air maintenance tire assembly includes a tire having a tire cavity bounded by first and second sidewalls extending to a tire tread region, an air pump for generating pressurized air for maintaining air pressure within the tire cavity at a preset pressure level, and a faceted valve housing disposed adjacent an outward end of the valve stem and operative to selectively open and close pressurized air flow from the valve stem internal passageway into the tire cavity. The first sidewall has at least one bending region operatively bending within a rolling tire footprint and a sidewall groove defined by groove sidewalls positioned within the bending region of the first tire sidewall. The groove deforms segment by segment between a non-deformed state and a deformed, constricted state in response to the bending of the first sidewall bending region within the rolling tire footprint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventors: Robin Lamgaday, Cheng-Hsiung Lin
  • Patent number: 9796222
    Abstract: An air maintenance tire assembly includes a tire having a tire cavity bounded by first and second sidewalls extending to a tire tread region, air pump for generating pressurized air for maintaining air pressure within the tire cavity at a preset pressure level, the tire having an elongate valve stem projecting outward from the tire cavity and having an internal valve stem air passageway in communication with the tire cavity and operative to direct pressurized air into the cavity, and a valve housing disposed adjacent an outward end of the valve stem and operative to selectively open and close pressurized air flow from the valve stem internal passageway into the tire cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventors: Cheng-Hsiung Lin, Arun Kumar Byatarayanapura Gopala
  • Patent number: 9777718
    Abstract: An electrical inflator has a cylindrical shell, an electrical aeration pump, an illumination assembly, a cell base and a switch assembly. The cylindrical shell has a tube, a front cover and a rear cover. The electrical aeration pump is mounted in the tube near the front cover and has a gas outlet located in the tube. The illumination assembly is mounted in the tube towards the front cover. The cell base is mounted in the tube behind the electrical aeration pump. The cell base has at least one cell. The switch assembly is mounted in the tube and electrically connects to the cell base, the electrical aeration pump and the illumination assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Inventor: Wei-Chi Wang
  • Patent number: 9739388
    Abstract: Devices and methods for extracting a beverage from a container, such as a wine bottle. Beverage can be extracted from a container by inserting a needle through a container closure, such as a cork, delivering pressurized gas into the container via the needle, and dispensing beverage from the container via the needle. A pressure regulator may control a pressure of gas introduced into the container, and a lance used to pierce a pressurized gas cylinder may include a leading face arranged to reliably pierce a cylinder closure. The regulator may include valve features to reduce valve chatter or hammering and provide a more reliable pressure seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Coravin, Inc.
    Inventors: Mike Rider, Otto Deruntz, Lee Ka Wing
  • Patent number: 9718319
    Abstract: A pressure and temperature compensated valve assembly includes a flow valve allowing inflation flow from a control port to a tire port and controlling deflation flow from the tire port to the control port. A throttle valve restricts deflation flow between the tire port and the control port when deflating the tire at high flow rates or when tire pressure is high, thus enabling the flow valve to be closed. The throttle valve includes a throttle diaphragm that throttles in response to flow from the tire port and which does not restrict inflation flow from the control port. The valve assembly further includes a temperature responsive member engaging the flow valve, and which deforms in response to a change in temperature in the valve assembly, thus negating temperature effects on the flow valve, allowing the flow valve to close at a consistent force across a range of operating temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: Parker Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Robert B. Knepple, James Beverly, Leonard Jabcon
  • Patent number: 9701164
    Abstract: A tire pressurization arrangement on a vehicle in which the pressurization of the tire is controlled by a vehicle control unit and the vehicle control unit is notified of a desired tire pressure or desired tire volume. An air flow rate in a supply line to the tire is established so that the time to pressurize the tire to the desired tire pressure/volume is calculable, or the time taken to pressurize the tire to an interval pressure/volume is calculable, said interval pressure/volume being between a current tire pressure/volume and the desired pressure/volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: AGCO International GmbH
    Inventors: Bernhard Hoeldrich, Frank Kreulich, Christian Pischulti, Stefan Prestel, Alexander Staedele, Benjamin Schmoelz
  • Patent number: 9656006
    Abstract: A wearable EVD system having a ventricular catheter and transducer supported proximately to a patient's ear by a mount, such as supporting headband or ear clip. An adjustable orifice valve or a spring-loaded needle valve is used to control the amount of CSF that drains into a drip chamber suspended on the patient for periodic measurement and emptying into a similarly located drainage bag, thereby avoiding the need for an IV pole and allowing the patient more mobility without disrupting drainage of CSF.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: InfinivationBiomedical, LLC
    Inventors: Kristen Stebbins, Thomas J. Pennell, II
  • Patent number: 9649894
    Abstract: A tire pressure sensor is provided. The tire pressure sensor comprises a sensor housing having a first engagement portion defining an opening. A pressure sensing element is within the sensor housing and is in fluid communication with the opening of the sensor housing. The tire pressure sensor is configured to engage and be in fluid communication with an over-inflation pressure relief valve. The over-inflation relief valve is engagable in a wheel of an aircraft wheel assembly. The tire pressure sensor is also disengageable from the over-inflation pressure relief valve. A tire pressure sensor assembly and an aircraft wheel system are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventors: Steven T. Keller, Paul L. Summers, Scott Whittle