Wall Patents (Class 137/360)
  • Patent number: 6419102
    Abstract: A wall outlet box for a dryer exhaust conduit. The box includes a plurality of substantially planar integral walls defining an enclosure open at the front thereof. The enclosure includes a back surface, a pair of opposing side surfaces, a top surface, and a bottom surface. The opposing side surfaces, back surface and top surface include forward facing edges collectively defining a front periphery. The front periphery preferably has a perimeter greater than the perimeter of the back surface. The bottom surface preferably extends downwardly from the back surface to the front periphery. The wall outlet box further includes at least one port in the enclosure adapted to engage with a dryer exhaust conduit. A mounting lip, which can include mounting structures, extends outwardly from the forward facing edges. The mounting lip can be configured in an L-shape to provide a shoulder which abuts the edges of a wall surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventor: Richard John Harpenau
  • Patent number: 6394125
    Abstract: A combination sheath and frost-resistant wall hydrant include a hydrant having a wall-penetrating conduit and intermediate wall bracket. There is an internal valve seat between the bracket and indoor or inlet end, and so is located in a presumptively warm indoor climate and spaced back from the wall and/or outdoors so as to reduce chances of freezing outdoor temperatures freezing water stopped behind the valve seat. The sheath telescopes over the hydrant's inlet end until the sheath's leading end mates against the hydrant's bracket. The leading end is vented for venting leakwater from the hydrant outdoors and not indoors in cases if the hydrant bursts by freezing because water got stopped in the conduit between the valve seat and outlet and failed to drain despite an open outlet. The sheath's trailing end seals onto the hydrant somewhere behind the valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: W. R. M. Investors, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul R. White
  • Patent number: 6389852
    Abstract: A water supply safety valve kit for an appliance in which the kit includes an individual solenoid actuated normally closed valve unit for each water supply line to the appliance and a control unit that plugs into a conventional electrical female household outlet. The control unit has a first outlet at the household line voltage and into which the power cord of the appliance plugs and a second lower voltage outlet responsive to current flow to the first outlet. A count down timer circuit and a low voltage output are activated by the current flow to the first outlet and lines connect that low voltage output to the solenoid valve unit to open the same. The count down timer terminates the low voltage output after a preselected time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: MCSM, LLC
    Inventor: Danny K. Montgomery
  • Patent number: 6386223
    Abstract: A safety valve apparatus body defining a flow chamber having a side outlet, a control adjustable to move lengthwise in the chamber, a first valving part carried by the control and movable to advance and retract relative to a second valve part on the body, thereby to provide a first check valve to block reverse flow of fluid through the chamber, and a second check valve proximate the outlet to pass forward fluid flow from the chamber and to block reverse flow of fluid to the chamber, via the side outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Herbert W. Hoeptner, III
  • Patent number: 6382241
    Abstract: A vacuum hose assembly for built-in or permanently installed vacuum cleaner systems that includes a motor powered reel assembly for allowing a user to extend and/or retract the flexible vacuum hose as needed and preventing the vacuum hose from becoming entangled while stored between uses. The vacuum hose assembly includes a reel support bracket assembly, a flexible vacuum hose, a motor driven vacuum hose drum reel assembly, a vacuum hose alignment assembly and a drum reel drive motor assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Arthur Setrum
  • Publication number: 20020046774
    Abstract: A fluid diaphragm valve and interconnected pilot valve apparatus for control flow of fluid discharge from a pressurized fluid distribution system. The apparatus has a primary valve with an inlet adapted to receive fluid under pressure, and an outlet adapted to discharge fluid to an outlet conduit. A diaphragm chamber is provided in the primary valve that is responsive to fluid pressure controlled by a pilot diaphragm valve. Upon release of fluid pressure in the pilot diaphragm valve, the primary valve allows passage of fluid to the outlet conduit. Bleed fluid from the pilot valve is also discharged into the outlet conduit and is thus saved for use. Upon closure of the pilot valve, a bleed port in the primary diaphragm in the primary valve allows repressurization and seating of the primary diaphragm, thus terminating fluid flow through the primary valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Inventor: Myron Keller
  • Patent number: 6367507
    Abstract: A fluid-flow module comprising a support plate having two parallel opposite edges and at least one body fixed to the support plate, the body having a main duct extending substantially parallel to the support plate and having first and second ends respectively provided with a quick coupling and with a connection endpiece for engaging such a quick coupling, the quick coupling and the connection endpiece extending parallel to said opposite edges of the support plate and at least one of the quick coupling and the connection endpiece extending at least in part beyond the support plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Legris SA
    Inventor: Patrick Legeai
  • Patent number: 6360770
    Abstract: A faucet spout fixture provides for spout mounting and removal from above a supporting surface such as a sink deck, without disconnection of the water supply conduits beneath the sink deck. The fixture includes a faucet spout which has a water passage and a water discharge in communication with the passage. There is a water inlet in the spout which communicates with the passage. A water supply assembly is located beneath the supporting surface and there is a spout waterway adjustably connected to the water supply assembly, which spout waterway extends into the spout water inlet. There is a clamp member adjustably mounted on the spout waterway to be positioned against and on top of the supporting surface sink deck. A spout fastener extends through an opening in the clamp member and is held in position therein by a portion of the spout waterway. The spout fastener adjustably cooperates with a threaded bore on the spout to removably fasten the spout against and on top of the supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Moen Incorporated
    Inventors: Daniel C. Buchner, John H. Daniel, III, Todd C. Loschelder, Allen L. Talley, Timothy J. O'Brien, William R. Markowitz, Erwin F. Mikol
  • Patent number: 6357183
    Abstract: The invention relates a water storage and storm water collection and detention system including at least one storage reservoir integrally attached to and extending along the edge of an extremity of a roof of a building structure; wherein the storage reservoir directly receives run-off from the roof. The system further includes at least one outlet, a supply line in communication with the outlet, an overflow outlet, and a float valve assembly connected to the supply line such that the reservoir communicates with a mechanism that allows for the water collected therein to be used with a water consumption apparatus or tap line on demand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventor: Frank Smith
  • Patent number: 6349735
    Abstract: A pressure monitoring assembly includes an isolation valve assembly and a differential pressure sensor assembly. The rigid manifold has two pressure inlet ports which each communicate with respective pressure outlet ports through isolation valves. An equalization passage and valve connect the two pressure lines. The pressure sensor assembly is sized to mate directly with the monolithic manifold by having sensor inlet ports that line up with the pressure outlet ports. Pressure tight attachments releasably secure the pressure sensor assembly to the manifold, but a rigid to support the weight of the pressure sensor assembly. No bleeding valves are necessary. Orientation and the positioning and construction of the manifold effectively reduce the amount of heat transfer between the pressure lines and the pressure sensor(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Mamac Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: S. Asim Gul
  • Patent number: 6349733
    Abstract: A water storage and dispensing system includes a water storage tank, a dispenser, and a conduit system extending between and fluidly connecting the storage tank and the dispenser. The conduit system includes an outer shell conduit defining a conduit passage therein, and an inner tubing extending through the conduit passage. The inner tubing is in fluid communication with each of the storage tank and the dispenser and is arranged and configured to convey water from the storage tank to the dispenser. Preferably, the inner tubing is formed of instrument grade tubing. Preferably, the shell conduit is formed of PEX.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: LeBleu Corporation
    Inventor: Jerry Wayne Smith
  • Patent number: 6347643
    Abstract: A gas outlet apparatus (10) is configured to provide a medical gas outlet for a gas supply line (62). The apparatus (10) includes a front cover (12) formed to include a gas outlet opening (14), a back plate (24) coupled to the front cover (12), and a gas outlet barrel (30) having an inlet end, an outlet end (80), and a valve located between the inlet end and the outlet end (80). The apparatus (10) also includes a retention portion located on the back plate (24). The retention portion is configured to engage the barrel (30) adjacent the outlet end (80) to secure the barrel (30) to the back plate (24) and the cover (12) and with the outlet end (80) of the barrel (30) in alignment with the gas outlet opening (14) formed in the front cover (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert L. Cope, III, David M. Garner, Eric R. Colburn
  • Patent number: 6345643
    Abstract: Faucet valve chamber body composed of a controlling valve body, an inlet tube, a main tube body and an outlet/inlet sleeve. The valve chamber body is assembled with a handle, a casing, an upper clamping block, a washer, a sealing ring and a lower clamping block. An upper end of the controlling valve body is provided with a driving rod milled with a casing outer thread section and a stepped stop block. A lower portion of the controlling valve body is milled with a locking outer thread section. The inlet tube is milled with an internal inlet tunnel and an upper annular engaging section. A middle portion of the inlet tube is milled with a stepped section to which an annular flow-guiding rib is adjacent. A lower end of the inlet tube is milled with locking outer thread section. The main tube body is milled with an internal receiving tunnel. Inner circumference of the upper end of the receiving tunnel is formed with a locking inner thread section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Assignee: Chung Cheng Faucet Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Hsi Chia Ko
  • Publication number: 20020005218
    Abstract: The present invention provides an axially-rotated valve which permits increased flow rates and lower pressure drop (characterized by a lower loss coefficient) by using an axial eccentric split venturi with two portions where at least one portion is rotatable with respect to the other portion. The axially-rotated valve typically may be designed to avoid flow separation and/or cavitation at full flow under a variety of conditions. Similarly, the valve is designed, in some embodiments, to produce streamlined flow within the valve. A typical cross section of the eccentric split venturi may be non-axisymmetric such as a semicircular cross section which may assist in both throttling capabilities and in maximum flow capacity using the design of the present invention. Such a design can include applications for freeze resistant axially-rotated valves and may be fully-opened and fully-closed in one-half of a complete rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2001
    Publication date: January 17, 2002
    Applicant: Bighorn Valve, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Walrath, William R. Lindberg, Robert K. Burgess
  • Patent number: 6334463
    Abstract: An inner pipe for a faucet with a retaining cut out includes a tubular body and a cap mountable on the body. A threaded first end is formed on the body to securely mate with a threaded socket formed in the faucet. A polygonal is formed on a second end of the body and includes a circumferential slit. The cap has a ring and a flange. The ring has a polygonal bore configured to mate with the tubular exterior and provide a limited rotational movement therebetween. The flange has a lug radially extending therefrom and configured to mate with the retaining cut out of the faucet. Two resilient elements are formed on the cap and each has a tooth to engage in the circumferential slit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Princeton International Company
    Inventor: Leon Lee
  • Patent number: 6321777
    Abstract: A wall type shower faucet including a mixing valve and a faucet body having: first and second water inlet channels communicating with the mixing valve; a first load control passage in communication with the first water inlet channel; a second load control passage in communication with the second water inlet channel; a first rear passage communicating with the first water inlet channel; a second rear passage communicating with the second water inlet channel; a first water supply channel communicating with the first rear passage; and a second water supply channel communicating with the second rear passage. A junction pin cap is mounted in each first and second rear passage with a movable stem member mounted in each junction pin cap. Each movable stem member has a sealing washer and a tip portion extending into the associated load control passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Faucet Wu
  • Publication number: 20010039964
    Abstract: A pressure monitoring assembly includes an isolation valve assembly and a differential pressure sensor assembly. The rigid manifold has two pressure inlet ports which each communicate with respective pressure outlet ports through isolation valves. An equalization passage and valve connect the two pressure lines. The pressure sensor assembly is sized to mate directly with the monolithic manifold by having sensor inlet ports that line up with the pressure outlet ports. Pressure tight attachments releasably secure the pressure sensor assembly to the manifold, but a rigid to support the weight of the pressure sensor assembly. No bleeding valves are necessary. Orientation and the positioning and construction of the manifold effectively reduce the amount of heat transfer between the pressure lines and the pressure sensor(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: S. Asim Gul
  • Patent number: 6308465
    Abstract: Utility modules used to form a utility distribution system, where the utility modules are disposed on a foundation with the construction of a building, and where the utility modules may be covered with panels. The utility modules include coupling elements at edge regions and at major surfaces thereof. When coupled together, the utility modules can form a utility distribution system which is used to distribute utility services throughout a building. The utility services can be provided by a utility service system, which preferably comprises a fuel cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Equitech, Inc.
    Inventors: Terry R. Galloway, Dean Price
  • Patent number: 6305400
    Abstract: A system and method for connecting a secondary source of a medical gas to a medical gas supply system which enables uninterrupted gas supply without backfeeding. A control panel (10) is connected in the system fluidly between primary supply sources (44, 45, 46) holding types of medical gas and gas outlets (54, 55, 56) for the delivery of the respective types of medical gas to devices in a medical facility. For each gas type the control panel houses a respective shut off valve (24, 25, 26). The shut-off valve may be closed to isolate the upstream source from the downstream components. The control panel also houses for each gas type a respective secondary gas inlet port (68, 69, 70). The inlet ports have connections specific to the type of gas which may be received therethrough. Check valves are provided to enable fluid flow only into the inlet ports. A removable cover or face (11) is normally installed on the control panel. The face can only be installed when the shut-off valves are all open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Tri-Tech Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Donald M. Simo, James L. Lucas, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6301728
    Abstract: A quick-install assembly for a single control faucet connected to water supply lines that extend through an opening in a deck to which the faucet is mounted, which assembly has a collar of larger diameter than the diameter of the opening of the deck and positioned from above the deck to be disposed at the opening of the deck. The collar has a pair of ears formed thereon that extend over the opening in the deck. A pair of fasteners are operatively engaged from above the deck to be threadedly connected to the ears to be disposed from above through the opening of the deck. A retainer is threadedly connected to the fasteners and includes a pair of swing flaps thereon adapted to be axially shifted toward and away from the collar responsive to the direction of rotation of the fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Emhardt Inc.
    Inventors: Edward J. Pilatowicz, Oscar Romero
  • Patent number: 6298872
    Abstract: A fluid diaphragm valve and interconnected pilot valve apparatus for control flow of fluid discharge from a pressurized fluid distribution system. The apparatus has a primary valve with an inlet adapted to receive fluid under pressure, and an outlet adapted to discharge fluid to an outlet conduit. A diaphragm chamber is provided in the primary valve which is responsive to fluid pressure controlled by a pilot diaphragm valve. Upon release of fluid pressure in the pilot diaphragm valve, the primary valve allows passage of fluid to the outlet conduit. Bleed fluid from the pilot valve is also discharged into the outlet conduit and is thus saved for use. Upon closure of the pilot valve, a bleed port in the primary diaphragm in the primary valve allows repressurization and seating of the primary diaphragm, thus terminating fluid flow through the primary valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Myron Keller
  • Patent number: 6279595
    Abstract: The present invention provides an axially-rotated valve which permits increased flow rates and lower pressure drop (characterized by a lower loss coefficient) by using an axial eccentric split venturi with two portions where at least one portion is rotatable with respect to the other portion. The axially-rotated valve typically may be designed to avoid flow separation and/or cavitation at full flow under a variety of conditions. Similarly, the valve is designed, in some embodiments, to produce streamlined flow within the valve. A typical cross section of the eccentric split venturi may be nonaxisymmetric such as a semicircular cross section which may assist in both throttling capabilities and in maximum flow capacity using the design of the present invention. Such a design can include applications for freeze resistant axially-rotated valves and may be fully-opened and fully-closed in one-half of a complete rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: Big Horn Valve, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Walrath, William R. Lindberg, Robert K. Burgess
  • Patent number: 6273132
    Abstract: An in-line valve for a fluid line preferably in the environment of a hydrant, comprising a casing to which is mounted an attachment device and in which is disposed a rotatable stem. The attachment device and stem both have dividing walls in which are formed corresponding fluid ports through which fluid flows when the ports are aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Amerikam, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim D. Chrysler, Robert S. Creswell
  • Patent number: 6267145
    Abstract: A faucet assembly includes a faucet body having a front portion defining a water passage, a water inlet for introducing water into the water passage, a nozzle disposed at a downstream position with respect to the water flow, and a pipe mounting seat disposed at an upstream position and in fluid communication with the water inlet. A coupler pipe is disposed within an intermediate portion of the faucet body, and has a front pipe section that extends into the front portion of the faucet body and that is connected securely to the pipe mounting seat, an externally threaded rear pipe section, and an enlarged middle pipe section between the front and rear pipe sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Inventor: Tzu-Hsin Sun
  • Publication number: 20010002597
    Abstract: A fire department connection (“FDC”) and a check valve in one. FDC saves labor and time when compared to the current FDC, because with current FDC, one has to install a check valve and then install the FDC. The new FDC is a one-step process. FDC is equipped with swivels which don't allow debris, garbage or trash to be deposited in the FDC and this makes FDC debris proof. FDC allows back flushing test to be performed by removing the cap and reversing the FDC. FDC comes with three different styles of outlets which are grooved, flange, and threaded. This gives the consumers more selections to suit their needs. Current FDC's come only with one style of outlet, which is threaded outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2001
    Publication date: June 7, 2001
    Inventors: Abdul Addo, Ali Addo
  • Patent number: 6234193
    Abstract: Improved outlet boxes are provided for installation in a wall to connect water supply lines and drain lines to the corresponding lines from an appliance. Molded plastic outlet boxes having dual drains; left-to-right reversibility; adaptability to multiple drain and inlet line configurations, including top, bottom and side inlets; inclined bottom walls with gutters and removable webs facilitating drainage; and rear walls with recesses accommodating flushable water supply line connections are disclosed. Dual drain connectors adapted to combine the flows from dual drain outlets into a single drain pipe and knock-outs with downwardly extending, elongated tabs are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventors: Billy J. Hobbs, Philip A. Mulvey, Jerry P. Mitchell, Sam H. Howe, Charles T. Crisman
  • Patent number: 6227237
    Abstract: A wall mountable rack-like structure that may be used to conveniently store and at the same time drain one or more hoses commonly used to convey liquid substances such as hydraulic liquids, fuels, coolants and the like. The structure includes a horizontal bracket having a plurality of projections that define a number slots capable of receiving an end portion of a hose. The horizontal bracket is spaced at a vertical distance below the a horizontal top portion of the rack. The vertical distance is selected so that hose end couplings having spring-biased, quick connect/disconnect valves may be snugly inserted between the bracket and the top portion. When the hose end couplings are inserted between the bracket and the top portion, the tip of the spring biased valve engages the top portion and is depressed, thereby opening the valve and allowing any liquid within the hose to downwardly drain to the horizontal bottom of the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Co.
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Few
  • Patent number: 6223768
    Abstract: An outlet dust cover, for attachment to a back plate having a wall plate formed to include an aperture within which a valve controlling gas flow in a pipe is received, includes a plate, a valve actuator located in the plate and arranged to be positioned adjacent the valve when the plate is positioned adjacent the wall plate, the valve actuator having a first state in which the valve is not actuated and a second state wherein the valve is actuated, and a vent extending through the cover and positioned to be in communication with the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard E. Hoffman, David M. Garner
  • Patent number: 6206039
    Abstract: A freezeless wall hydrant for delivery of hot or cold water from a single discharge conduit has first and second fluid inlet pipes in parallel spaced relation. The pipes have forward and rearward ends and are connected respectively to sources of hot and cold pressurized water. A laterally extending fluid conduit member connects the forward ends of the first and second fluid inlet pipes and is in communication therewith. A fluid closure valve is located in the rearward ends of each of the first and second fluid pipes. A check valve is in each of the pipes forwardly of the fluid closure valves and is capable of permitting fluid flow in the pipes in a direction from the closure valve, but prevents fluid flow towards the closure valves. A valve rod having forward and rearward ends rotatably extends through the laterally extending fluid conduit and through the forward ends of the first and second inlet pipes and has one end operatively connected to the check valves in the rearward ends of the fluid inlet pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Shuler, Alfred F. Dickey, William L. Carlson
  • Patent number: 6199396
    Abstract: A refrigerant pipe unit for a room air-conditioner includes two refrigerant pipes laid through a piping hole in the building wall and interconnecting an indoor unit and an outdoor unit of the room air-conditioner for circulation of a refrigerant through the room air-conditioner. A stop valve is attached to at least one end of each of the refrigerant pipes for blocking flow of the refrigerant between the indoor unit and the outdoor unit. A maximum size of the stop valve which is measured in a radial direction about the central axis of each refrigerant pipe is designed such that the stop valve attached to the end of each refrigerant pipe can pass through the piping hole while the other refrigerant pipe is present inside the piping hole. Thus, the air-conditioner can be disassembled while the refrigerant is kept sealed within the indoor unit, the outdoor unit and the refrigerant pipe unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Nikichi Aizawa
  • Patent number: 6192529
    Abstract: A modular shower arm construction for use in removably attaching a shower fixture to an unthreaded end of a pipe extending outwardly from a shower wall without affecting connection of the pipe to a water supply system behind the shower wall includes a tubular shower arm, an adapter and a coupling nut. The adapter is fixed to the pipe, either by a set screw or through the use of a threaded nipple. The tubular shower arm has an outwardly flared end which extends within the coupling nut and the coupling nut is threaded onto the adapter and holds the tubular shower arm to the assembled components. An escutcheon overlies and covers all of the connecting elements and is removed when the tubular shower arm and adapter are removed from the unthreaded end of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: Moen Incorporated
    Inventors: Timothy P. Jones, Norman E. Limpert, Gerald M. Mitchell, Martin Zummersch
  • Patent number: 6189560
    Abstract: A secondary valve unit is provided to interconnect a front/finish assembly and an existing wall outlet for supplying medical gases. The secondary valve unit includes a cylindrical body containing a secondary valve assembly to prevent gas leakage when the front unit that contains a primary valve is removed for services. The secondary valve unit is pre-assembled and threadedly connected to the wall outlet. The threaded connection is locked by an indexing plate which is attached to the wall and provides indexing connection with the front unit to avoid mistakenly connecting a wrong front unit for different gases. The secondary valve unit is especially used in renovations of medical gas systems in hospitals, and able to be installed to an existing wall outlet without breaking the wall so that the cost for renovations is significantly reduced. The connector assembly for gases using the secondary valve unit provides a great gas flow and achieves a more secure connection over a long period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: VitalAire
    Inventor: Kenneth Joseph Reynolds
  • Patent number: 6178981
    Abstract: A universal-fit replacement flange and handle set includes a template formed with an easily torn apart material and having a pair of lugs which have free ends with pre-punched holes spaced at a distance from one another. The set further includes mounting brackets, each having opposite ends formed with openings and pivotally mounted on the lug by its one end to pivot in a position, wherein the other end is attached to a support surface. The set has a flange and handle assembly having a pair of recesses spaced at a distance equal to the distance between the pre-punched holes. The recesses are aligned with the pre-punched holes and are traversed by fasteners attaching the flange and handle assembly to the brackets upon removing the template. The set further includes an adapter enabling adjustment of a handle of the flange and handle assembly with respect to the support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Resources Conservations, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Wales
  • Patent number: 6178993
    Abstract: A covering rosette (4) for a sanitary wall-fitting comprises, in a manner known as such, a covering plate (6) which is capable of being fastened to the wall-fitting and an ornamental hood (5) which is detachably fastened to the covering plate (6). Covering plate (6) and ornamental hood (5) are each provided with passage openings (8, 18) for a region of the wall-fitting onto which an ornamental cap (1) is capable of being pushed from outside. On the covering plate (6) and/or on the ornamental hood (5) at least one spring shackle (25) is provided, the boundary surface (25c) of which pointing towards the axis of the passage openings (8, 18) is situated in the tension-free state on a circle, the diameter of which is equal to or smaller than the outside diameter of the push-on ornamental cap (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Hansa Metallwerke AG
    Inventor: Hans Oberdorfer
  • Patent number: 6173739
    Abstract: Addow's FDC is different from current FDCs, because it is a FDC and a check valve in one. Addow's FDC saves labor and time when compared to the current FDC, because with current FDC, one has to install a check valve and then install the FDC. With Addow's FDC, it is a one step process. Addow's FDC is equipped with swivels which don't allow debris, garbage or trash to be deposited in the FDC and this makes Addow's FDC debris proof. Addow's FDC allows back flushing test to be performed by removing the 4 inch cap and reversing the FDC. Addow's FDC, unlike current FDCs, comes with three different styles of outlets, which are grooved, flange, and threaded. This gives the consumers more selections to suit their needs. Current FDCs come only with one style of outlet, which is threaded outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Inventors: Abdul Addo, Ali Addo
  • Patent number: 6155286
    Abstract: A washing machine outlet box includes a housing having a bottom wall containing a first valve mount for a first shutoff valve of a first water supply line and a valve mount insert that forms a second valve mount for a second shutoff valve of a second water supply line. The valve mount insert is selectively positionable in any one of several openings in the bottom wall to accommodate the second water supply line. A drain pipe is connected to one of the openings in which the valve mount insert is not selectively positioned. A test cap forms a seal for the drain pipe opening. In this manner, the washing machine outlet box can accommodate different plumbing arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Oatey Co.
    Inventor: Susan M. Geary
  • Patent number: 6148850
    Abstract: A washing machine outlet box includes a bottom wall having a first drain port for a washing machine hose and a second drain port for a condensate line. Communicating with both drain ports is a common tailpiece integral with the bottom wall. The common tailpiece includes an outlet for connection to a drain pipe and wall sections defining a first passageway from the first drain port to the outlet and a second passageway from the second drain port to the outlet. This allows both drain ports to be connected to the drain pipe with only one solvent weld between the tailpiece and drain pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Oatey Co.
    Inventors: Raun A. Kopp, Michael W. Minnick, Robert S. Kane
  • Patent number: 6142172
    Abstract: A freezeless wall hydrant/faucet has an inlet pipe with one end connected to a source of pressurized water, a water discharge conduit, and an elongated control rod extending through the inlet pipe to open and close a fluid valve. A bore is inserted through the fluid valve with the bore being in communication with both the source of pressurized water and the interior portion of the inlet pipe. A check valve is placed in the bore of the valve body to open only when extreme water pressure within the inlet valve moves a seated ball to permit the highly pressurized water to move through the bore in the valve body and be relieved as it escapes rearwardly into the original source of pressurized water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Shuler, Lawrence Almasy
  • Patent number: 6129109
    Abstract: A washer box has a hollow housing with top and bottom walls and a front wall defining a window providing access to the housing interior. A pair of laterally spaced ports in the bottom wall are aligned in a first reference plane parallel to and spaced rearwardly from the front wall, and are configured and arranged to accommodate the connection of hot and cold water supply lines to valves located within the housing. A pair coaxially aligned alternatively useable drain openings in the top and bottom walls are located rearwardly of the first reference plane in a second reference plane extending perpendicular to the first reference plane and bisecting the distance between the laterally spaced ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: IPS Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Humber
  • Patent number: 6125881
    Abstract: Improved outlet boxes are provided for installation in a wall to connect water supply lines and drain lines to the corresponding lines from an appliance. Molded plastic outlet boxes having dual drains; left-to-right reversibility; adaptability to multiple drain and inlet line configurations, including top, bottom and side inlets; inclined bottom walls with gutters and removable webs facilitating drainage; and rear walls with recesses accommodating flushable water supply line connections are disclosed. Dual drain connectors adapted to combine the flows from dual drain outlets into a single drain pipe and knock-outs with downwardly extending, elongated tabs are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: LSP Products Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Billy J. Hobbs, Philip A. Mulvey, Jerry P. Mitchell, Sam H. Howe, Charles T. Crisman
  • Patent number: 6109293
    Abstract: The present invention provides an axially-rotated valve which permits increased flow rates and lower pressure drop (characterized by a lower loss coefficient) by using an axial eccentric split venturi with two portions where at least one portion is rotatable with respect to the other portion. The axially-rotated valve typically may be designed to avoid flow separation and/or cavitation at full flow under a variety of conditions. Similarly, the valve is designed, in some embodiments, to produce streamlined flow within the valve. A typical cross section of the eccentric split venturi may be non-axisymmetric such as a semicircular cross section which may assist in both throttling capabilities and in maximum flow capacity using the design of the present invention. Such a design can include applications for freeze resistant axially-rotated valves and may be fully-opened and fully-closed in one-half of a complete rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Big Horn Valve, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Walrath, William R. Lindberg, Robert K. Burgess
  • Patent number: 6085780
    Abstract: A manifold box adapted to contain manifolds for valves controlling the flow of potentially hazardous liquids. This is a rotationally cast sealed plastic box enclosing the valves to contain any leaks from the valves and allow any leaking liquid to drain from the box through a drain tube at the bottom of the box to prevent the liquid from leaking onto surfaces below or adjacent to the valves. Attachment engaging "tee-nuts" are cast in place within the walls of the box and fittings for tubing connections are spin welded to the walls of the box. The box has a front access opening sealingly closed by a hinged plastic cover panel. In one embodiment the box is rectangular and is designed with two adjacent sloping walls which permit drainage of liquid from the box into a drain tube regardless of whether the box is mounted vertically or horizontally. In another embodiment the box is square and has one sloping wall containing a drain connected to a drain pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Inventor: James M Morris
  • Patent number: 6085778
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wall connection for connecting a fitting (2) to a water network, with a connecting piece (3) having on the wall side a connection part (4) with an inlet duct (6), and on the fitting side a connection part (5) with an outlet duct (7). The inlet duct (6) and the outlet duct (7) are preferably excentrically staggered with regard to each other. In order to make a wall connection available for the connection of the fitting to the water network, in which the connection between the wall connection and the fitting takes up as little place as possible and is at the same time simple to produce, the invention provides that a flange (9) with tapped holes (12, 13) is provided for connecting the wall connection (1) to the fitting (2) by means of fastening screws (10, 11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Ideal-Standard GmbH
    Inventor: Konrad Bergmann
  • Patent number: 6082702
    Abstract: A tubing pinch valve and mounting bracket assembly is disclosed, the valve having a cylindrical valve body, and the bracket having a flexible base with two upstanding jaws. The valve body and each jaw have releasably engagable retention members, such that upon flexing of the base, the retention members may be disengaged to permit assembly or disassembly from the valve to the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Flow-Rite Control, Ltd.
    Inventor: Daniel N. Campau
  • Patent number: 6076545
    Abstract: This invention provides a fire-control sprinkler system riser for a residence, including a unitary manifold for porting to system components. The longitudinal manifold has pipe threads on its ends to connect to an inlet water pipe and an outlet sprinkler system; and it has ports all to one side of the manifold for mounting the riser system components in the following order from inlet to outlet: flow switch means; test and drain valve means; pressure gauge means; and relief valve means. On the other side of the manifold are support connections, as for attachment to a beam of the residence. The manifold may be connected facing either way, i.e., left support or right support, and it has indicia on both manifold facing sides for indicating flow direction and port identifications to a user from either side. Dimensions provide high efficiency in use of space, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Inventor: Michael S. Cooper
  • Patent number: 6070609
    Abstract: A plaster guard for a concealed sanitary valve which can be controlled by means of a valve control element such as a valve spindle or a valve control disc. The plaster guard is equipped with a tool to operate the valve control element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: American Standard Inc.
    Inventor: Albert Becker
  • Patent number: 6065491
    Abstract: A blind alignment sillcock with non-vibrating loose wall mounting. The sillcock includes a spout and water regulating handle assembly, a tube portion, and a wall mounting portion. The tube portion has a threaded portion with a keyway slot therein that extends at a position in line with a valve stem of the spout and water regulating handle assembly, and which provides a reference for assuring that the valve stem is properly facing up when the blind alignment sillcock with non-vibrating loose wall mounting is being fastened blindly from behind the wall. The wall mounting a portion includes a nut plate that has a nut that threadably receives the tube portion. The leading face of the nut plate has teeth for engaging the interior side of the wall. The nut has a plurality of keyway slots that extend radially outwardly, with each keyway slot being alignable with the keyway slot in the threaded portion of the tube portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: Walter A. Rider
  • Patent number: 6062254
    Abstract: A manifold protective valve enclosure can have a bottom portion and a valve mounting subbase portion disposed on the bottom portion. A portion of the perimeter of the bottom portion can be surrounded by side walls which surround a valve which can be mounted on the subbase portion. A cover can be provided over the side walls to completely enclose and protect both the subbase and the valve. A portion of at least one side wall can form a side of the subbase, or integral conduit members can provide fluid communication between the side of the subbase and the side wall. The subbase can have the requisite ports configured to mate with the ports in the valve and can also have an override port configured to connect to an external device. The subbase can further include a receptacle for an electrical connector on the valve. The subbase can also include accessory devices such as mufflers, shut-off valves and flow controls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: The Rexroth Corporation
    Inventors: Scott G. Brady, Paul E. Olson
  • Patent number: 6062253
    Abstract: An apparatus is described for the intermediate storage and control or release of a predeterminable quantity of water, wherein the predeterminable quantity of water is replenished, each time it has been released, from a supply main for the intermediate storage via an automatically acting supply valve arrangement. An elongate and substantially tubular container integratable into a wall construction is provided for the intermediate storage. This container is surrounded at least extensively by insulating material and is equipped at the outlet side with a valve which can be triggered to release the predeterminable quantity of water by means of an actuating element which can be installed at the container or at freely selectable distances from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: E. Missel GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Hanel, Dieter Krist
  • Patent number: 6041802
    Abstract: A bulk storage and distribution system for cooking oils. The system includes an apparatus and method to store and distribute cooling oil in an aseptic environment. The system includes a bulk storage tank, an oil inlet structure, an inert gas supply and an oil distribution structure having a dispensing nozzle. An inventory monitoring system and oil removal system are incorporated into the cooking oil storage and distribution system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Richard J. Nelson