With Lock Or Seal Patents (Class 137/383)
  • Patent number: 11162393
    Abstract: A rotary valve includes a valve shaft coupled to a rotary valve element. The valve shaft defines an axis and is rotatable thereabout. The valve further comprises a rotary position sensor and a coupling rotationally coupling the valve shaft and the sensor. A wrenching arm is rotationally coupled to the valve shaft, and extends radially outwardly of the axis for attachment of a wrenching tool thereto. The coupling is axially between the rotary position sensor and the wrenching arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Damian Słodczyk, Bartosz Solarz
  • Patent number: 10794494
    Abstract: A bonded seat for a butterfly valve can comprise a first axial end and a second axial end distal from the first axial end; a central section between the first axial end and the second axial end, the central section defining a radially inward surface and a radially outward surface, the radially inward surface defining a fluid bore therethrough from the first axial end to the second axial end, the radially outward surface defining a plurality of annular ribs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Ashraf Abouelleil, Xianhua Feng
  • Patent number: 10760249
    Abstract: A faucet knob return spring kit for automatic shut off includes a pair of knob sleeves each having an outer perimeter and a through hole. The through hole is configured to receive and secure a faucet knob. A pair of sleeve eyelets is coupled to the outer perimeter of the pair of knob sleeves. Each of a pair of extension springs has a sleeve hook end coupled to the pair of sleeve eyelets and a wall hook end. Each of the pair of extension springs has a rest position and an alternate stretched position. Each of a pair of eyelet screws has a spring eyelet and a threaded screw. The spring eyelet is coupled to the wall hook end of the pair of extension springs and the threaded screw is configured to mount into a wall adjacent the faucet knob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Inventor: Obie Harris
  • Patent number: 10670013
    Abstract: A fluid end having its fluid flow bores sealed without threading a retaining nut into the walls of each bore. The fluid ends may be assembled using a plurality of different kits that each comprise a fluid end body, a component, a retainer element, and a fastening system. The retainer element holds the component within each of the bores formed in the fluid end body and the fastening system secures the retainer element to the body. The fastening system comprises a plurality of externally threaded studs, washers and nuts in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the fastening system comprises a plurality of screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: Kerr Machine Co.
    Inventors: Kelcy Jake Foster, Mark S. Nowell, Brandon Scott Ayres, Christopher Todd Barnett
  • Patent number: 10578511
    Abstract: A flexible universal bladder tool is disclosed to be coupled between a source of “smoke” and a fluid system to be tested for leaks, such as that found in the automotive industry. The bladder tool is an inflatable bladder that surrounds a flexible smoke delivery tube which communicates with the source of smoke and a fluid duct of the system under test. By virtue of the flexible nature of the smoke delivery tube, the inflatable bladder is adapted to be bent around any of a variety of curved fluid ducts. The flexible smoke delivery tube is detachable from the tool so that the tube can be quickly replaced with a different tube having a different length. The inflatable bladder is filled with fluid (e.g., air) to expand into sealing engagement with the fluid duet, and the system under test is pressurized with smoke supplied thereto by way of the flexible smoke deliver tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: CPS Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory M McCollom, Jim E Saffie
  • Patent number: 10533398
    Abstract: A multi-function diverter tool is disclosed that allows positive-indication opening and closing of the tool in a downhole environment. The tool includes a first sleeve adapted to open outlet ports in the exterior surface of the tool body. The tool includes a second sleeve which is movable with respect to the first sleeve and is adapted to close the outlet ports when moved from an initial position to a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Assignee: Allamon Properties LLC
    Inventors: Jerry P. Allamon, Javier E. Bolivar, Kevin O. Trahan
  • Patent number: 10207208
    Abstract: An apparatus for a switchable filter assembly includes a first conduit coupled to a second and a third conduit, where a liquid has the ability to flow through the first conduit to the second conduit and the third conduit, and where the second conduit and the third conduit are arranged in parallel. A first assembly is capable of sliding inside the first conduit, such that a position of the first assembly determines an amount of liquid flowing to the third conduit. The first assembly includes a compressible member coupled to a first structure, where the first structure prevents the liquid from passing through the first conduit to the third conduit. An amount of compression of the compressible member coupled to the first structure is dependent on a pressure of the liquid flowing from the first conduit to the second conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Donald W. Porter, Jacob T. Porter, Allan C. VanDeventer, Jason T. Wertz
  • Patent number: 10151174
    Abstract: A multi-function diverter tool is disclosed that allows positive-indication opening and closing of the tool in a downhole environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: Allamon Properties LLC
    Inventors: Jerry Allamon, Kevin O. Trahan, Javier E. Bolivar
  • Patent number: 10145056
    Abstract: A rinsing container is provided for use in a process air circuit of a washer or washer/dryer and receives condensation water from a condensation water tank that collects condensation water acquired in the process air circuit from the drying of wet laundry. The rinsing container is provided above the condenser and dispenses a gush of water to a selected component via the sudden opening of the rinsing container on its outlet side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: BSH Hausgeräte GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Grunert
  • Patent number: 10088273
    Abstract: A holster for a handgun, including at least some of an at least partial cavity; a lever having a finger button portion and an engagement portion, wherein the lever includes a locking projection extending from at least a portion of the engagement portion, wherein the lever is pivotally attached or coupled to at least a portion of the holster, approximately between the finger button portion and the engagement portion; and a locking slider, slidable attached or coupled to at least a portion of the holster such that the locking slider is repeatably slidable between a locked position and an unlocked position, and wherein at least a portion of a body portion of the locking slider is positioned above at least a portion of the engagement portion of the lever when the locking slider is in the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: Vista Outdoor Operations LLC
    Inventors: Thomas M. Gregory, Robert A. Kincaid, Clifton L. Cook, Eric M. Yeates, Thomas A. Marx
  • Patent number: 9951882
    Abstract: Provided is a cap for a handwheel that opens and closes a valve, capable of being readily attached to the handwheel without requiring a large space around the handwheel. The cap has easily switchable two working modes: One is a co-rotation mode where the cap is capable of rotating with the handwheel and the other is an independent rotation mode where the cap is capable of rotating independently of the handwheel. The cap has an internal casing to be securely fitted to the handwheel; an external casing being rotatable around its axis and having the internal casing in an interior thereof; a clutch for connecting the external casing with the internal casing and for disconnecting the former from the latter; and a maintaining member for keeping the external casing rotatable independently of the internal casing when they are disconnected by the clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Yusuke Iwanaga, Hidenobu Sato, Takahiro Matsuda
  • Patent number: 9909577
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing a selectively variable orifice size for pulsation control in a reciprocating compressor system includes a rotatable upper windowed plate and a fixed lower windowed plate, the windowed plates being aligned a long a central axis to form a central cylindrical port. The upper and lower windowed plates each include at least one plate port and have mating contours allowing the upper plate to rotatably slide over the fixed lower plate, allowing their respective ports to be selectively aligned in any configuration to create any desired orifice size for a pulsation control device. The shapes of the windowed plates can be flat, conical, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the upper and lower windowed plates each include a plurality of plate ports which can be selectively aligned, the relative alignment of the plurality of plate ports determining the effective orifice size of the pulsation control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Inventor: Jared W. Adair
  • Patent number: 9869078
    Abstract: A flush system includes a meter valve, a first pipe, a vacuum breaker, a second pipe, and a ball valve assembly. The meter valve defines a selectively openable outlet. The first pipe is in fluid communication with the meter valve and a water supply source. The vacuum breaker is disposed within the first pipe upstream of the meter valve and oriented to prevent backflow from the meter valve to the water supply source. The second pipe extends from a wall and is downstream from the supply source. The ball valve assembly is disposed between the first pipe and the second pipe upstream of the vacuum breaker to facilitate fluid communication between the first pipe and the second pipe and to selectively isolate the meter valve from the water supply source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: Transcendent Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Kory Wieber, Dennis Martin, Scott Halfmann
  • Patent number: 9834429
    Abstract: A device for the contamination-free filling of a tank from a canister is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: BAYER CROPSCIENCE AG
    Inventors: Joerg Oeser, Reinhard Friessleben, Steffen Graef, Franz Renner, Markus Felixberger, Stefan Nissl
  • Patent number: 9791054
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes a valve body with a central passage, an upstream end for receiving a fluid, and a downstream end for discharging the fluid. A segment ball valve rotates between a valve open position to allow the fluid to flow through the central passage, and a valve closed position to prevent the fluid from flowing through the central passage. A check valve located within the central passage downstream from the segment ball valve is biased to prevent the fluid from traveling upstream through the central passage, and to allow the fluid to travel downstream past the check valve. A locking mechanism secures the check valve in a locked position to prevent the fluid from flowing past the check valve. A sealable cavity is located between the segment ball valve and the check valve, to contain a neutral media to achieve a double block and bleed feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Omar M. Al-Amri
  • Patent number: 9709189
    Abstract: A valve, including a diaphragm valve, is provided featuring a cover in combination with at least one inner housing component. The cover may be configured with a biased-pin mounted therein. The at least one inner housing component may be configured with a hole or slot formed at a predetermined location where the biased-pin is at when the valve is calibrated to be at a final position. The cover may be configured to rotate and cause an axial translation between the cover and the at least one inner housing component so that the biased-pin engages the hole or slot when the valve is at the final position so as to stop any further axial and rotational movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: ITT MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES LLC
    Inventors: Louis E. Matalon, Steven Haun, Michael D. Yoder
  • Patent number: 9453588
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes a housing having a first chamber, a second chamber, a valve seat disposed between the first chamber and the second chamber, a valve head disposed in the housing and moveable relative to the housing, a valve stem operatively coupled to the valve head for moving the valve head between the open and closed positions, and a pressure relief mechanism including a plug coupled to the valve stem and extending along a plug axis in the bore of the valve head moveable relative to the valve head from a sealed position preventing fluid communication through the bore to an unsealed position allowing fluid communication through the bore for relieving pressure differences between the first chamber and the second chamber when the valve head is in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: MARSHALL EXCELSIOR CO.
    Inventors: Frederick W. Blanchard, Alex L. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 8997779
    Abstract: A lockout device that can be used to lock a valve in a closed position, for use particularly with valves that include a stationary member, such as a body, and a rotating member, such as a handle or wheel, for activating and deactivating the valve is disclosed. The lockout device can also be used to provide a connection point for connecting various types of connectors to a hose clamp or other elongate connecting member mounted on and locked onto a body such as a pipe or valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Brady Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher J. Rohde
  • Publication number: 20150075647
    Abstract: A lockable pipe cover includes an inner cap and an outer cover which are selectively coupled together for axial rotation. When the cap is locked, the inner cap and the outer cover are free to rotate independently from one another thus rotation of the outer cover will not remove the cap from the pipe. In the unlocked position, the inner cap and the outer cover are coupled for rotation and thus rotation of the outer cover results in rotation of the inner cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: Dohn J. Trempala
  • Patent number: 8973892
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for a valve device, which includes a valve body for opening and closing a fluid path, for retaining the valve body at a predetermined opening position, the valve device further including a gear wheel to which rotational driving force of a rotational driving source is transmitted and a rack section having rack teeth provided thereon for meshing engagement with the gear wheel and configured to convert rotational movement of the gear wheel into linear movement and move together with the valve body. The locking mechanism for a valve device includes: a ball abuttable with a wall face of the rack section; and a spring member configured to press the ball toward the wall face; the valve body being retained by frictional force generated when the ball is pressed against the wall face of the rack section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignees: Keihin Corporation, Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideki Kawauchi, Yukinobu Sakata, Takahiro Sasaki, Takuya Wakabayashi
  • Patent number: 8967184
    Abstract: A locking fire hydrant includes a fire hydrant body having an internal channel extending between a main cap recess and an auxiliary cap recess defined therein. A plunger assembly including first and second plungers is disposed within the internal channel. The first plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into a main cap recess and the second plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into an auxiliary cap recess. When the second plunger is actuated by mounting a locking cap on the fire hydrant body, one of the ratchet teeth provided on the back side of the auxiliary cap engages the second plunger to prevent the auxiliary cap from being removed from the fire hydrant body. A locking cap, an opening tool, and methods of securing an auxiliary cap to a fire hydrant also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Sigelock Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: George Sigelakis, Matthew Hayduk
  • Patent number: 8955540
    Abstract: A valve lock assembly includes a cover for selective placement over a valve. The cover has opposing sidewalls, each sidewall including at least one cover aperture. The assembly further includes a strap to secure the cover to the valve, the strap having opposing end portions each of which include at least one strap aperture. A locking pin is to be placed through both the strap apertures and the cover apertures when they are aligned. The assembly also includes a lock body, which features a first bore to receive the locking pin, and a second bore which receives a locking mechanism that prevents removal of the locking pin from the lock body. The lock body is freely rotatable about the locking pin so that the valve lock assembly may be installed or removed from a wide range of angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Inner-Tite Corp.
    Inventors: Anthony J. Agbay, John C. Mahaney
  • Publication number: 20150020897
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a pneumatically drivable actuator for setting a position of a valve closure element in a valve, comprising a piston, which is moveable in a pressure chamber by influence of a drive gas, and a locking mechanism for mechanically locking the piston relative to the pressure chamber. The actuator further comprises a ventilation device for venting the drive gas from the pressure chamber while the piston is mechanically locked relative to the pressure chamber, such that pressurization of the pressure chamber is prevented. A method of locking a valve closure element relative to a valve body of a valve that is controllable by a pneumatically driven actuator is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Karsten Aldmo, Per Lundqvist
  • Publication number: 20150014065
    Abstract: A valve assembly for use in an inner tube member of a core barrel head assembly positionable within a drill string of a drilling apparatus. The valve assembly works using two separate surfaces and a biasing element with a force. When hydrostatic pressure is present forces are created on these surfaces, these forces have a direct relationship with pressure, as an increase in pressure will increase the force and vice versa. The surface areas are designed such that the valve will maintain closed while under a predetermined fluid pressure, indicating to the driller that the inner tube has landed. When the driller relieves the fluid pressure and the pressure decreases, the force difference between the respective forces decreases until the valve opens for drilling through the force from the biasing element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: ATLAS COPCO CANADA INC.
    Inventors: Paul Lambert, Patrick Salvador, Patrick Lu
  • Publication number: 20140374125
    Abstract: A flow control assembly for a fire sprinkler system includes a valve housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The valve housing defines a fluid flow path that extends between the inlet opening and the outlet opening. A flow control valve is disposed within the fluid flow path. A swing check valve is disposed within the fluid flow path of the valve housing downstream from the flow control valve. The swing check valve includes a clapper that is connected to an actuator arm. An electrical switch is disposed outside of the valve housing. A mechanical linkage includes a first end that extends through the valve housing and engages with the actuator arm. The mechanical linkage also includes a second end that is coupled to the electrical switch. The first end translates with said actuator arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventor: AUGUSTUS W. JOHNSON
  • Publication number: 20140360597
    Abstract: A lockable hydraulic valve for preventing unauthorized use of a system, machinery item or vehicle requiring operation by both electric and hydraulic circuits. The valve comprising a housing provided with a spool bore and at least one hydraulic inlet and at least one hydraulic outlet. A spool allows oil passage from inlet to outlet in a first spool position. A key can drive the spool 90 degrees from a second, locked position to a first open position. A lock member in a hollow provided in the solid housing, engages and revolves the spool and also serves to block access to the exposed end of the spool. A locator member prevents axial movement of the spool member and locates in a spool groove. A non-central spool projection projects outward and operates at least one electric switch to immobilize at least one essential electric circuit simultaneously to the blocking of oil flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2013
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: Michael NEUMARK, Itzhak Menahem GILL, Yehuda BARUCH, Yakov BACHAR
  • Patent number: 8893534
    Abstract: A yard hydrant locking collar has two C-shaped steel hardened plates connected together at one end by a rivet. The rivet acts like a hinge and allows the top and bottom plates to swivel open and closed. The other end of each top and bottom plates has a locking hole. A one inch tapered slot is cut into the top plate near the locking hole. The top and bottom plates are rotated so the collar fits around the hydrant pipe. The locking holes and slot are positioned near the hydrant locking hole and the collar locking holes are aligned. A padlock is opened and tilted away from the pipe and the free arm of the padlock is placed through the locking hole of the hydrant handle and positioned over the locking holes of the collar. The padlock is then tilted back towards the pipe. The tapered slot allows the padlock to move towards the pipe so that the free end of the padlock can move through the locking holes. Once the free end of the padlock passes through the collar locking holes, the padlock can be raised and locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Carl H. Niemi
  • Publication number: 20140305519
    Abstract: An adapter connects to a valve to convert the valve of a type, such as but not limited to Schrader or Presta, to a uniform configuration. An attachment head for engages and creates a seal with the adapter and has a release mechanism to disengage the attachment head from the adapter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: Pacific Cycle, LLC
    Inventors: Ian Cassiman, Jesse C. Darley, Brian Koons, Randall S. Koplin, Jeffrey Allen Rogers, Jeff R. Staszak, Joseph J. Werwie, III
  • Patent number: 8844769
    Abstract: A dispenser housing has a closure mechanism that serves to hold the dispenser housing closed. A key either can be carried by an individual to be employed to override the closure mechanism to permit the opening of the dispenser or can be selectively mounted to the dispenser housing to position a release mechanism appropriately to permit the release mechanism to be manipulated to override the closure mechanism. When the key is not mounted to the dispenser, the release mechanism cannot be appropriately manipulated to override the closure mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: GOJO Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark E Rosenkranz, Robert L Quinlan, Jr., David D Hayes
  • Patent number: 8720478
    Abstract: A mechanism for implementing at least one of activation and deactivation of a gas valve that is coupled to an input manifold of a processing chamber is provided. The mechanism includes a toggle arm disposed in one of a toggle activation position and a toggle deactivation position. The mechanism also includes a toggle operated switch coupled to the toggle arm and the gas valve. The toggle operated switch is disposed on top of the gas valve and the toggle arm is disposed on top of the toggle operated switch so as to minimize a footprint of an assembly that comprises the gas valve, the toggle operated switch, and the toggle arm. Thus, the process gas flow flows through the gas valve when the toggle arm is in the toggle activation position and is inhibited from flowing into the gas valve when the toggle arm is in the toggle deactivation position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventor: Mark Taskar
  • Patent number: 8678028
    Abstract: The invention relates to a locking device for a lock opening which is arranged in a wall between a first and a second recipient, said lock opening comprising a blocking element, which is arranged in the inner chamber of the first recipient, and a counter-plate which is associated with the blocking element. A first magnet device is provided in an area of the counter-plate and a second magnet device, which is associated with the first magnet device, is provided in the region of the blocking element. In order to close and/or open the locking device by means of the first and second magnet device, a positive and/or negative contact pressure can be produced between the blocking element and the counter-plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Leybold Optics GmbH
    Inventors: Mario Roder, Alexander Muller, Andreas Caspari, Thomas Vogt, Christof Klesen
  • Publication number: 20130312838
    Abstract: A component of a fuel system includes a fuel cap having a head portion connected to a neck portion. The head portion defines: a fluid pressure relief conduit and a relief valve passage that extends into and through the head portion that terminates at a valve head opening formed by an inner surface of the head portion. The inner surface of the head portion and the inner surface of the neck portion cooperate to form a fuel cap cavity. The fluid cap cavity is fluidly-connected to the fluid pressure relief conduit by way of the valve head opening formed by the inner surface of the head portion. A relief valve is movably arranged within the relief valve passage for permitting selective fluid communication of the fuel cap cavity with the fluid pressure relief conduit. A locking apparatus is arranged within the fuel cap cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventor: Kurt D. McLain
  • Publication number: 20130291962
    Abstract: A circulation tool includes a tubular outer body having a main bore and at least one flow port in a wall thereof, and a valve seat assembly including a valve body, a valve member, and locking elements are movably mounted within the outer body main bore. The valve seat assembly is biased towards a first position in which flow through the outer body flow port is prevented and the locking element is in the extended position, restricting passage of the valve member along the valve body bore and out of the valve body. The valve seat assembly is movable to a second position in which the locking element is in the retracted position, permitting passage of the valve member along the body bore and out of the body. The valve seat is also movable to a third position in which flow through the outer body flow port is permitted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventor: George Telfer
  • Patent number: 8561635
    Abstract: A locking system is provided for interconnection to a hydrant. The locking system is generally comprised of a lock body and lock that work in concert to block the operation of hydrant components, namely a control rod and/or a stem screw, that controls fluid flow through the hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Pilarczyk, William T. Ball, William L. Carlson
  • Patent number: 8561847
    Abstract: A dispenser housing has a closure mechanism that serves to hold the dispenser housing closed. A key either can be carried by an individual to be employed to override the closure mechanism to permit the opening of the dispenser or can be selectively mounted to the dispenser housing to position a release mechanism appropriately to permit the release mechanism to be manipulated to override the closure mechanism. When the key is not mounted to the dispenser, the release mechanism cannot be appropriately manipulated to override the closure mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: GOJO Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark E. Rosenkranz, Robert L. Quinlan, Jr., David D. Hayes
  • Publication number: 20130264068
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for conducting a reverse flow operation. The apparatus may be lowered into a wellbore on a work string, and includes an opening device, a closing device, and a locking device disposed in a housing. Pressurized fluid supplied through the work string may actuate the opening device to open fluid flow through ports in the housing. Pressurized fluid from the annulus may be supplied through the port in the reverse flow direction to actuate the locking device to enable fluid flow up through the work string back to the surface, and to release the closing device. Pressurized fluid supplied through the work string may actuate the closing device to close fluid flow through the ports in the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventors: Andrew James Hanson, Jozeph Robert Marcin, Randal Brent Biedermann, Damian Leonard Ward
  • Patent number: 8517048
    Abstract: A mechanically operated proportional flow control valve (8) which a valve spool (9) is described, which is moveable between two end limits limiting a regulating range. A device (20, 22) is described for selectively limiting the regulating range of the valve (8). This device can be used to block “locked-in” positions (F1, RH1) of the spool (9) at the end limits of the regulating range. The device includes a locking bar 20 which has locking formations (28, 29) which engage a pin (22) on a lever (11) connected with the spool (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: AGCO GmbH
    Inventors: Ulrich Dietrich, Jürgen Knobloch
  • Patent number: 8499784
    Abstract: An air-lock valve (1), especially for a band processing plant, provided for closing a gap-like opening (3), traversed by a flexible band substrate (4), between two different plant sections, featuring at least one moveable sealing body (7), cooperating with a sealing surface (5), when it closes said opening (3), and eventually said band substrate (4) is being firmly mounted between said body (7) and sealing surface (5) during the closing operation of said air-lock valve (1), is characterized, according to the invention, in that the sealing surface (5) surrounds opening (3) in frame-like fashion, and in order to close opening (3), said body (7) may be pressed in such a fashion upon sealing surface (5) and/or upon band substrate (4), traversing said opening (3), that it obstructs said opening (3) at least due to indirect juxtaposition at the edges of said sealing surface (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Applied Materials GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Stefan Hein
  • Publication number: 20130167948
    Abstract: An anti-theft assembly for preventing illegal access to a water shut-off point of a commercial flush valve assembly is disclosed. The anti-theft assembly is comprised of a boxed configuration formed and dimensioned for installation in both a left and right oriented flush valve assembly with lock access holes positioned to hold a lock between the plumbing fixtures and the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Inventor: Steven Scott Marion
  • Publication number: 20130160870
    Abstract: A lockout device that can be used to lock a valve in a closed position, for use particularly with valves that include a stationary member, such as a body, and a rotating member, such as a handle or wheel, for activating and deactivating the valve is disclosed. The lockout device can also be used to provide a connection point for connecting various types of connectors to a hose clamp or other elongate connecting member mounted on and locked onto a body such as a pipe or valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: BRADY WORLDWIDE, INC.
    Inventor: Brady Worldwide, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130146153
    Abstract: A lock open device for use with a valve in a hydraulic fracturing system, which maintains the valve in an open position. The lock open device includes a plate with beveled edges and spring loaded ball bearings strategically disposed to contact the edges and interfere with axial movement of the plate. The plate couples to a gate member in the valve, so that the interference between the plate and the ball bearings maintains the valve in a designated open or closed position. The angle of the bevel regulates how much force is required to urge the plate past the ball bearings to thereby open/close the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: VETCO GRAY INC.
    Inventors: Mahesha Udipi, Raymond Krolczyk, Mark Viator
  • Patent number: 8459293
    Abstract: Semiconductor manufacturing tools with chemical delivery systems, such as precursor distribution system, use reservoir assemblies as part of a distribution system. One reservoir assembly includes: a canister comprising at least one sidewall, a top, and a bottom encompassing an interior volume therein; an inlet port and an outlet port in fluid communication with the interior volume; an inlet valve for controlling fluid communication between the inlet port and the interior volume; and an outlet valve for controlling fluid communication between the outlet port and the interior volume, wherein at least one of the inlet valve or the outlet valve comprises a dual-function hybrid valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin S. Griffin
  • Patent number: 8413851
    Abstract: A security device protects the vulnerable portions or accessories of a bulk storage tank or container against unauthorized access. The device includes a housing that covers the vulnerable portions of the tank, the housing having two or more lockable doors that selectively permit access to the tank or container via two or more respective apertures. A first door is openable after unlocking a readily-accessible lock, while the second movable door is openable after an elongate lock member that is positioned internally within the housing is moved to an unlocking position. The elongate lock member can be moved to its unlocking position after the first door is opened. Certain tank operations, such as dispensing fuel, may be carried out after unlocking and opening a single door, while other operations, such as refilling the tank, may be accomplished after opening a second door once the first door has been opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Burlingame Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark W. Bruinius
  • Patent number: 8381751
    Abstract: A self service automated dump station is provided using a control mechanism for the collection of money that releases a latching mechanism located on a removable lockable cap that sits upon the dump station's drain line. In one embodiment provided, the removable lockable cap is lifted from the dump station inlet line by a remote foot pedal—this allows for a cleaner and more efficient means for inserting the hose from the waste tank of a vehicle into the dump station inlet line. Money payment can be either made by cash or by credit or debit cards. The operation of the dump station is made more efficient and requires fewer interactions between those who need to transfer waste from their vehicle waste tanks, such as operators of campers or recreational vehicles, and the dump station operator. Remote sensors can also be deployed to minimize the possibility of spillage or over-fill of the dump station if the dump station is not hooked up to a sewer system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: Vito Ignatius Bartolotta
  • Patent number: 8353309
    Abstract: A hydrant locking device inhibiting unauthorized operation of a fire hydrant and includes a flip-top lid positioning between an open configuration and a closed configuration relative to a base. The flip-top lid is hingedly connected to the base of the locking device. The base may be releasably secured to an operating nut of the fire hydrant or more specifically an operating nut extension that engages the operating nut of the fire hydrant. The flip-top lid may also include a sealed cavity that may include electronics. These electronics may be in electrical communication with a wireless mesh network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Inventors: Joel Embry, King Embry
  • Patent number: 8347921
    Abstract: Two connected valve units each formed by serially connecting plural electromagnetic valves in a direct abutment state are disposed in parallel between two end blocks. The two end blocks are tightened with plural connecting bolts disposed therebetween so as to directly clamp and fix the two connected valve units from both sides in the serial connection direction of the electromagnetic valves. One of the end blocks is provided with a power supply connector, and the other is provided with an air inlet port and a discharge port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Masaru Narita, Shinichi Yoshimura, Takashi Murakami
  • Publication number: 20120298218
    Abstract: A security lock for a storage tank includes a lock ring configured for engaging an opening that provides access to the storage tank. A suitable mounting assembly is used to mount the lock ring to the opening. One or more obstructions are disposed within an inside (and/or outside) area of the lock ring. The one or more obstructions define one or more openings that are sized to allow storage tank contents to be introduced through the security lock while blocking pipes, tube or other implements that are larger than the openings so that such implements cannot be used for siphoning or otherwise removing the storage tank contents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: MCGARD LLC
    Inventors: Andrew D. Trank, Jeffery R. Sullivan, David C. Meyer
  • Publication number: 20120234405
    Abstract: A one piece valve lockout device for use with a quarter turn, rotary selector valve that is closed at the one-eighth turn position and is mounted on a common assembly with a manually operated pump. The device includes parallel ears configured in a U shape, used to secure the device to the pumping assembly. The ears are oriented 45 degrees from a locking arm. The locking arm has two parallel plates extending downward around a valve handle. The parallel plates have pairs of aligned holes in which a padlock can be inserted, preventing unauthorized removal of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventor: Matthew Joseph Reinert
  • Publication number: 20120132294
    Abstract: A fluid transfer system includes a transfer device coupled to a dry break coupler. The transfer device includes a valve assembly moveable between an open and a closed position. The valve assembly includes a main valve and a pilot valve. An actuator controls both the main valve and the pilot valve. A cam plate interconnects the actuator and the valve assembly. The cam plate provides a quick acting shutoff to quickly move the valve assembly to the closed position. A pivotal and rotatable connector couples the transfer device to the dry break coupler. A lock is integrated with the actuator to lock the valve assembly in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2012
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventors: Alex L. Hoffman, Frederick W. Blanchard
  • Publication number: 20120085433
    Abstract: A valve lock assembly includes a cover for selective placement over a valve. The cover has opposing sidewalls, each sidewall including at least one cover aperture. The assembly further includes a strap to secure the cover to the valve, the strap having opposing end portions each of which include at least one strap aperture. A locking pin is to be placed through both the strap apertures and the cover apertures when they are aligned. The assembly also includes a lock body, which features a first bore to receive the locking pin, and a second bore which receives a locking mechanism that prevents removal of the locking pin from the lock body. The lock body is freely rotatable about the locking pin so that the valve lock assembly may be installed or removed from a wide range of angles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: INNER-TITE CORP.
    Inventors: ANTHONY J. AGBAY, JOHN C. MAHANEY