Pivoted Valves Patents (Class 137/521)
  • Patent number: 10278814
    Abstract: Heart valve prosthesis, comprising a ring-shaped supporting structure (3) to be anchored at the valve annulus, and a valve leaflet (5) supported by the supporting structure. The supporting structure comprises a support wall portion (31), at which a root end (51) of the valve leaflet is connected, and a complementary wall portion (32) opposite the support wall portion, which supports a coaptation surface (33) adapted to be sealingly engaged by a free end (52) of the valve leaflet (5), and extending in a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the free end (52) of the valve leaflet (5) at the coaptation surface (33). The free end of the valve leaflet (5) is connected to the support wall portion or to the complementary wall portion by means of a traction member (55), dimensioned in such a way that the free end (52) of the valve leaflet (5) is stopped at the coaptation surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: EPYGON
    Inventors: Marcio Scorsin, Enrico Pasquino
  • Patent number: 9610161
    Abstract: An implant for supplementing, repairing, or replacing a native heart valve leaflet or leaflets provides a scaffold, which defines a pseudo-annulus. The implant further has at least two struts in generally oppositely spaced apart positions on the scaffold. The scaffold can be placed in an elastically loaded condition in a heart with the struts engaging tissue at or near the leaflet commissures of a heart valve annulus, to reshape the annulus for leaflet coaptation. The implant further provides a neoleaflet element coupled to the scaffold within pseudo-annulus, to provide a one-way valve function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: MVRX, INC.
    Inventors: John A. Macoviak, Robert T. Chang, David A. Rahdert, Timothy R. Machold, Rick A. Soss
  • Patent number: 9145854
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for controlling an exhaust gas recirculation circuit for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle. The engine is linked to an air intake circuit and to a gas exhaust circuit linked to the air intake circuit by the recirculation circuit. A first valve controls the flow of air upstream from the recirculation circuit, and a second valve controls the flow of exhaust gases that are recirculated within the recirculation circuit. The method comprises the following steps: a) the first valve is closed, and the second valve is gradually opened; b) if the second valve is opened at an angle greater than a value between 25° and 35°, the first valve is gradually opened concomitantly to the opening of the second valve. As a result of the invention, the EGR rate is easily controllable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: Valeo Systemes de Controle Moteur
    Inventors: Grégory Hodebourg, Sébastien Adenot
  • Patent number: 8967183
    Abstract: A drain line access device is provided for flushing HVACR drain lines. The device includes a main body having input and outlet connection ports on opposite ends for inline installation to a drain line, a flapper assembly sized and configured for seated placement in an interior cavity of the main body, and a removable top cover. The flapper assembly includes a flapper holder, a flapper, a flapper seat, and a spring hinge for rotatably urging the flapper into the normally raised position. An injection port is provided on the top cover for delivering a flow of pressurized gas or liquid for flushing out a clog in the drain line. In operation, delivery of pressurized gas or fluid into the drain line forces the flapper against the flapper seat, thereby sealing off one of the respective ends of the main body and directing the pressurized gas into the drain line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: MSD Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Stuart Oakner, Donna Oakner
  • Patent number: 8939178
    Abstract: A variable-aperture reciprocating reed valve includes a valve body defining a through hole region having a contoured-profile portion. A semi-rigid plate is affixed on one side thereof to the valve body to define a cantilever extending across the through hole region. At least one free edge of the cantilever opposes the contoured-profile portion of the through hole region in a non-contact relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Lindner, W. Neill Myers, Anthony R. Kelley, Hong Q. Yang
  • Patent number: 8636026
    Abstract: An automatically activated backflow prevention device for water closets or toilets is provided having a substantially cylindrical support member terminating in one end in a cam shaped end for mating with a hinged flapper valve having a parabolic shaped or upwardly curving upper surface and correspondingly shaped sealing member disposed therebetween for mating with the cam shaped end of the substantially cylindrical support member. An elastomeric hinge member is provided for connecting the closure member or flapper valve to the substantially cylindrical support member so that when closed the flapper valve or closure member conforms to the confronting cam shaped end of the cylindrical support member with the sealing member disposed therebetween. A backflow water pressure responsive assist member is optionally provided on the lower surface of the closure member to assist in the closure of the closure member in response to backflow water pressure from waste pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Inventors: Thomas Earl Kelly, Stephanie C. Kelly, William Harley Frankenfield
  • Patent number: 8316876
    Abstract: A drain ring adapted for use in a device for flushing a dead-end of an underground municipal water distribution system includes a pair of annular seals and a channel between the seals, an outlet passage extending from inside the ring to the channel, and a flapper adapted to close the outlet passage under the influence of at least one of pressure and flow. The drain ring is removably positioned between a shut-off valve and an outlet of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: John C. Kupferle Foundry Company
    Inventor: Daniel G. McKeague
  • Patent number: 8316882
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mechanical fuse to seal pipes upon unintended rupture. When a pressure difference between a first pressure and a second pressure in a pipe is below a pressure threshold, a first spring retains a flap in a first position allowing gaseous fuel to flow from a first portion to a second portion and when the pressure difference between the first pressure and the second pressure is not below the pressure threshold the flap moves to a second position preventing the gaseous fuel from flowing from the first portion to the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrea Leigh Lubawy
  • Patent number: 8191571
    Abstract: A fluid circuit breaker includes a plurality of petals and a bias system attached to the plurality of petals to maintain the plurality of petals at a closed unobstructed flow condition below a predetermined flow velocity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Richard A. Himmelmann, Joshua Boeck
  • Patent number: 8025077
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mechanical fuse to seal pipes upon unintended rupture. When a pressure difference between a first pressure and a second pressure in a pipe is below a pressure threshold, a first spring retains a flap in a first position allowing gaseous fuel to flow from a first portion to a second portion and when the pressure difference between the first pressure and the second pressure is not below the pressure threshold the flap moves to a second position preventing the gaseous fuel from flowing from the first portion to the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North American, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrea Leigh Lubawy
  • Patent number: 7828011
    Abstract: A pneumatic safety valve prevents dangerously rapid outflow of pressurized air in the event that an air hose ruptures or a pneumatic tool is accidentally decoupled from the hose downstream of the valve. The valve has an internal air conduit in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet ports. The air conduit cooperates with a pivotal flap that selectively closes to prevent a sudden discharge of air in the event of a hose rupture or an accidental decoupling of the pneumatic tool from the hose. By containing the highly pressurized air and preventing the air from rapid discharge, the valve prevents the air hose from flailing or whipping violently, thus eliminating the physical dangers to operators and other personnel in the vicinity of the rupture. This simple and inexpensive valve ensures safe containment of hose ruptures or of accidental disconnections of the pneumatic tool from the high-pressure hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: Wilfred Huet
  • Patent number: 7789104
    Abstract: An automatically activated backflow prevention device for water closets or toilets is provided having a substantially cylindrical support member terminating in one end in a cam shaped end for mating with a hinged flapper valve having a parabolic shaped or upwardly curving upper surface and correspondingly shaped sealing member disposed therebetween for mating with the cam shaped end of the substantially cylindrical support member. An elastomeric hinge member is provided for connecting the closure member or flapper valve to the substantially cylindrical support member so that when closed the flapper valve or closure member conforms to the confronting cam shaped end of the cylindrical support member with the sealing member disposed therebetween. A backflow water pressure responsive assist member is optionally provided on the lower surface of the closure member to assist in the closure of the closure member in response to backflow water pressure from waste pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas Earl Kelly, Stephanie C. Kelly, William Harley Frankenfield
  • Patent number: 7639151
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a liquid blocking apparatus and a system thereof, wherein if the liquid contained in an IV bag or a liquid tank is oozed out completely, the flow of liquid is blocked, the alarm lamp is turned on, the alarm sound is generated, and then the supply of liquid is maintained for a predetermined time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Sang-dae Lee
  • Patent number: 7273062
    Abstract: A shut-off valve for preventing the flow of liquid through a conduit is described herein. The valve includes a valve body which defines a fluid passage, a portion of which can be venturi-shaped. The valve also includes a flow barrier which has a dimension sufficient to block fluid flow through the passage. The flow barrier is movable between an open position which allows fluid flow through the passage, and a closed position which prevents such flow. A target for detecting liquid flow is pivotally attached to the flow barrier, and is exposed to liquid flow and gas flow when the flow barrier is in the open position. When liquid flow hits the target, it swings away from the direction of flow, thereby pivoting the flow barrier to the closed position. Related methods for preventing the flow of liquid through a conduit are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: David Flint Stender, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7114519
    Abstract: A fluid flow actuated valve for controlling the fluid flow in a conduit comprises a support structure adapted to be mounted within the conduit and at least one flap member pivotally mounted to the support structure. The at least one flap member is pivotable between an first position for a minimum fluid flow and a second position for a maximum fluid flow. A torsion spring is attached to the at least one flap member to urge the same to pivot against a fluid pressure differential, from the first position to the second position when the fluid pressure differential is smaller than a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp.
    Inventors: Paul Archibald Aitchison, Patrick David Germain, Henry Smith
  • Patent number: 6851255
    Abstract: A fluid flow actuated valve for controlling the fluid flow in a conduit comprises a support structure adapted to be mounted within the conduit and at least one flap member pivotally mounted to the support structure. The at least one flap member is pivotable between an first position for a minimum fluid flow and a second position for a maximum fluid flow. A torsion spring is attached to the at least one flap member to urge the same to pivot against a fluid pressure differential, from the first position to the second position when the fluid pressure differential is smaller than a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp.
    Inventors: Paul Archibald Aitchison, Patrick David Germain, Henry Smith
  • Patent number: 6789561
    Abstract: An automatically operating valve for use for example in a forecourt fuel pump has a body (10) defining a flow passage (20) within which is formed a valve seat (22), the body having a weakened zone (16) around the flow passage (20) such that an impact on the body will fracture the body at the weakened zone. A valve member (30) is mounted for movement within the flow passage (20) and is engageable with the valve seat (22) to close the valve. A closing mechanism effects movement of the valve member (30) to its closed position in the event that the body (10) is fractured at the weakened zone. Further, the valve member (30) is configured to move to its closed position under the influence of excessive flow of liquid through the flow passage (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Graham William Osborne
  • Patent number: 6659735
    Abstract: A scroll compressor that simplifies the structure of a valve and decrease the size of the entire compressor includes a casing having a first chamber into which a fluid is sucked and a second chamber at which compressed fluid is discharged, a driving unit housed inside the casing to generate a driving force, a compressing unit having a fixed scroll and an orbiting scroll connected to the driving unit by a rotational shaft to compress and discharge the fluid when the driving unit is operated. A valve assembly is rotatively installed to the upper surface of the fixed scroll, opening/closing a discharge hole at which the compressed fluid is discharged and opening/closing a passage connecting the first chamber and the second chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Su Chul Kim
  • Patent number: 6615864
    Abstract: A pool cleaner reed valve for a pulsating submersible swimming pool cleaner which has a valve body (22) configured to fit into a pulsating valve enclosure. The body includes a rectangular inlet end (24) and an round outlet end (26) with a pair of fulcrum points (30) and restricting boundaries (32) for retaining and confining valve movements. A pair of opposed rigid valve plates (50) are angularly juxtaposed within the valve inlet end contiguously engaging the fulcrum points and respective restricting boundaries such that each opposed blade rotates inwardly on the fulcrum point until the distal ends intimately engage as influenced by negative fluid pressure applied by a pool pump. A pair of torsion springs (70) surround each restricting boundary and interface with each valve plate returning them to a parallel position when fluid pressure is terminated. A resilient sleeve (72) is positioned on each spring for eliminating a metal to metal contact with the spring to the valve plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: Paul C. Chang
  • Patent number: 6604548
    Abstract: A safety valve limits but does not curtail flow of fluid from a source through the body of the safety valve upon release of a handle. A pivotable vane disposed within the body is urged to pivot from a first state not restricting fluid flow to a second state restricting fluid flow in response to the force of the fluid flow. A shaft supporting the vane is connected to the handle. Retaining the handle in a position commensurate with the first state of the vane will permit fluid flow through the safety valve, which fluid flow will become limited upon release of the handle due to a change in state of the vane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Vaporless Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Penrod Geisinger
  • Publication number: 20030140968
    Abstract: A pool cleaner reed valve for a pulsating submersible swimming pool cleaner which has a valve body (22) configured to fit into a pulsating valve enclosure. The body includes a rectangular inlet end (24) and an round outlet end (26) with a pair of filcrum points (30) and restricting boundaries (32) for retaining and confining valve movements. A pair of opposed rigid valve plates (50) are angularly juxtaposed within the valve inlet end contiguously engaging the fulcrum points and respective restricting boundaries such that each opposed blade rotates inwardly on the fulcrum point until the distal ends intimately engage as influenced by negative fluid pressure applied by a pool pump. A pair of torsion springs (70) surround each restricting boundary and interface with each valve plate returning them to a parallel position when fluid pressure is terminated. A resilient sleeve (72) is positioned on each spring for eliminating a metal to metal contact with the spring to the valve plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Paul C. Chang
  • Patent number: 6589113
    Abstract: A ridge vent assembly extends along a roof ridge of a building. One embodiment has corrugated plies defining small diameter passages that communicate a vent opening cut along the ridge of the roof with ambient atmosphere. A moveable valve member extends along the outer edge of the vent parts and includes a lift spacer to keep the valve member spaced from the roof when in an inactive position. When wind speed increases above a predetermined wind speed, the movable member moves into a position adjoining the edge of the vent parts and the bubble is compressed against the upper edge of the corresponding vent part, thereby preventing entry of wind driven moisture and snow into the passages and into the building structure through the vent opening. Accordingly, the moveable valve member acts as a weatherstripping material for the vent. A similar flexible member is usable to weatherstrip windows, doors, and other building openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Cor-A-Vent, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary L. Sells
  • Patent number: 6581629
    Abstract: A fluid-activatable shut-off device, configured as a shut-off valve, has a valve housing formed with a flow passage therethrough and a movably supported valve body, which is movable between an open valve position and a closed valve position. In the open valve position, the valve body is mainly withdrawn from the flow passage, which is thereby essentially cleared. In the closed valve position, the valve body blocks the flow passage. The valve body is arranged to close the valve by abnormal flow conditions by a portion being formed so that the flowing fluid provides a lifting force which affects the valve body and seeks to move it towards the closed position. The valve body may thereby close by an abnormal increase in the fluid flow rate, density or viscosity. The portion may also be supported by an expansion pad arranged to push the lifting surface further into the flow passage as a consequence of changes in the fluid pressure and/or temperature, thereby providing increased lift so that the valve body closes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Jan Inge Eielsen
  • Publication number: 20020189686
    Abstract: A safety valve limits but does not curtail flow of fluid from a source through the body of the safety valve upon release of a handle. A pivotable vane disposed within the body is urged to pivot from a first state not restricting fluid flow to a second state restricting fluid flow in response to the force of the fluid flow. A shaft supporting the vane is connected to the handle. Retaining the handle in a position commensurate with the first state of the vane will permit fluid flow through the safety valve, which fluid flow will become limited upon release of the handle due to a change in state of the vane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Applicant: VAPORLESS MANUFACTURING, INC.
    Inventor: Penrod Geisinger
  • Publication number: 20020174900
    Abstract: The liquid distributor (1) for columns (6) has a main passage (2), a plurality of secondary passages (3) and an outflow system (5) of the main passage. The liquid (4) to be distributed can be fed into the secondary0 passages in accordance with a pre-set ratio by this outflow system. The outflow system (5) comprises apertures (20) in the side walls of the main passage and—associated with the secondary passages—guide elements (50) for the liquid (41) exiting through the apertures. The guide elements are designed with respect to a liquid guidance such that the liquid (42) can be led into the associated secondary passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Applicant: Sulzer Chemtech AG
    Inventors: Emil Fehr, Adrian Faust, Markus Fischer
  • Patent number: 6345641
    Abstract: A fluid-activatable shut-off device, configured as a shut-off valve, has a valve housing formed with a flow passage therethrough and a movably supported valve body, which is movable between an open valve position and a closed valve position. In the open valve position, the valve body is mainly withdrawn from the flow passage, which is thereby essentially cleared. In the closed valve position, the valve body blocks the flow passage. The valve body is arranged to close the valve by abnormal flow conditions by a portion being formed so that the flowing fluid provides a lifting force which affects the valve body and seeks to move it towards the closed position. The valve body may thereby close by an abnormal increase in the fluid flow rate, density or viscosity. The portion may also be supported by an expansion pad arranged to push the lifting surface further into the flow passage as a consequence of changes in the fluid pressure and/or temperature, thereby providing increased lift so that the valve body closes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Inventor: Jan Inge Eielsen
  • Patent number: 6253788
    Abstract: A check valve for use in a filler pipe of a motor-vehicle fuel system, having a housing fixed in the interior of the pipe and a movably mounted flap closure which is opened by the flow of fuel through the filler pipe to the fuel tank, and closes again automatically when fueling stops. According to the invention, a configuration that is particularly favorable in terms of flow dynamics is provided wherein the flap closure comprises two valve flaps which are movably mounted jointly in the region of the center of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Tesma-Motoren-und Getriebetechnik Ges. m.b.H.
    Inventor: Sandor Palvölgyi
  • Patent number: 6066043
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method to redirect airflow and enhance heat transfer using an oscillating baffle. This apparatus and method allows for the improved efficiency of a heat transfer tunnel, while reducing the size of the tunnel. Several embodiments of the oscillating baffle have a first degree of freedom and a second degree of freedom which allows it to oscillate under the power of the airflow. The method employs the oscillating baffle to redirect and mix the airflow in order to enhance heat transfer in a heat transfer tunnel. The oscillating baffle is used for cooling, for heating, for enhancing the mixing of a multi-component air flow or redirecting an air flow. Other applications could include use in dusty environments to provide high speed gas streams sweeping a wall to prevent the build-up of dust.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: Charles W. Knisely
  • Patent number: 5992451
    Abstract: An improved valve for a pulsating submergible pool cleaner having a valve body (20) with an integral relief valve (32). The valve is dual acting and utilizes a pair of opposed laminated valve plates (50) with an outward bend (52) on one end and a right angle bend (54) on the other. When negative pressure is applied to the opposed plates, each plate draws together over a fulcrum (26) until the right angle bend touches a restrictive boundary in a cage (28) integral with the body creating the first step in the dual action. When negative pressure continues, the valve plates arcuately bow until the outward bends contiguously abut, closing the valve to fluid flow and creating the final step in the dual action. A garter spring (60) pulls the valves plates into their original parallel position when pressure is relieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: Paul C. Chang
  • Patent number: 5878773
    Abstract: A Flow control valve for a pump suction line permitting flow from an alternate source in the event of partial or complete blockage of a main source. The valve includes a valve housing having a main inlet port at one end, on auxiliary inlet port at its other end and a suction port between the inlet ports. Flow responsive valves are provided at the inlet ports and the valves are spring biased by springs which allow normal flow through the main inlet port. If the main inlet port is blocked the auxiliary port is opened. A flap valve is actuated by flow through the auxiliary port to close the auxiliary port and to create hydrostatic pressure between the blockage and the main inlet port to thereby dislodge the blockage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Essef Corporation
    Inventor: Ronald B. Robol
  • Patent number: 5634229
    Abstract: A swimming pool cleaner comprising an operating head providing two inlet openings and passages therethrough connecting to a single outlet is disclosed. The cleaner includes a valve to close intermittently in one passage and, optionally, a restriction valve in the other passage operable between greater and lesser degrees of restriction to enhance the smooth, consistent, and continual collection of dirt and debris from the pool surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Inventor: Herman Stoltz
  • Patent number: 5586874
    Abstract: A fluid displacement apparatus comprises a valve plate member dividing a compressor housing into a first chamber and a discharge chamber. A passage is formed in the valve plate member to allow communication between the first chamber and the discharge chamber. An elastic valve member disposed on the valve plate bends to open and close the end of the passage. The valve retainer member is secured to the valve plate together with the elastic valve member and has a curved end portion. A valve seat includes a recessed portion offset from an end surface of the valve plate. The recessed portion includes an inclined portion and a wall portion extending therefrom. The distance between the beginning of the curved portion of the valve retainer member and the securing means is greater than the distance between an edge of the recessed portion of the valve seat and the securing means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Assignee: Sanden Corporation
    Inventors: Kenji Hashimoto, Yoshito Matsumura
  • Patent number: 5513959
    Abstract: A pump with a priming circuit containing a valve having a seating with an orifice and an obturator mounted so as to be able to be applied onto the seating in front of the orifice, where the obturator is a resilient blade embedded on one side to the seating. The flexibility of the blade increases from the embedded side to the other. An L-shaped member protrudes from an outer curvilinear wall of a priming element fixed onto the pump. The L-shaped member allows for the seating to be slide into a groove space. The obturator has two holes so that the obturator can be embedded onto the seat by mating with two projections from the seating surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1996
    Assignee: KSB S.A.
    Inventors: Christian Mabillot, Jean-Francois Fragnet
  • Patent number: 5406977
    Abstract: This invention relates to an automatic flowrate regulator for ventilation and air-conditioning installations, wherein it comprises a rigid flap articulated in the body and which is subjected, on the one hand, to elastic means, on the other hand, to the pressure of the air stream, this antagonistic action ensuring control of said flap which at any moment leaves free a section adapted to ensure balancing of the installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Inventors: Christian Barbarin, Laurent Barbarin
  • Patent number: 5358518
    Abstract: An artificial venous valve with unidirectional flow, for insertion into the human venous system, biocompatible with the receiver, comprises a hollow elongated support and a plate carried by and within the hollow elongated support and movable relative to the support between a position to permit flow of blood in one direction and a position in which to prevent flow of blood in an opposite direction through the support. The plate is movable to open and close over a pressure differential range on opposite sides of the plate of 1-50 mm Hg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1994
    Inventor: Sante Camilli
  • Patent number: 5350421
    Abstract: Heart valves are shown which utilize pivot arrangements that create prompt response to flow reversal and minimize resistance to blood flow in the open position. Illustrated are valves having a pair of identical leaflets that can assume an orientation in the fully open position near maximum blood flow rate that is precisely parallel to the centerline of the passageway. The ability of the leaflets to assume a precisely parallel or low energy position in the bloodstream reduces pressure drop across the valve and results in improved flow characteristics. A camming action adjacent the upstream edges of the leaflets in combination with interengagement at downstream locations on the valve body, spaced from the locations where the camming action with said upstream edges occurs, positively guide the leaflets to assure effective closing movement regardless of momentary deviations in the dynamics of the reverse flow of blood through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1994
    Assignee: ONX, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan C. Stupka, Jack C. Bokros, Michael R. Emken, Axel D. Haubold, T. Scott Peters
  • Patent number: 5314467
    Abstract: A heart valve prosthesis having an annular valve housing or base and two leaflets supported for pivotable movement within the annular valve housing. Each valve leaflet possesses a composite curvature shape with pivoting hinges being purposely offset to the hydraulic force center of the annular valve housing to provide fast response of the leaflets to flow direction change. The hinge mechanism includes modified serpentine curved hinge recesses in the annular valve housing for receiving elongated leaflet ears allowing the leaflets to change their motion modes approaching the closed position to reduce leaflet-edge tangential velocity and impact of the minor edges against one another and the major edges against the housing seat upon closure. The composite curvature leaflets allow maximal central flow with consequent lower pressure drop during the open phase and minimal regurgitation during the closing phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark C. S. Shu
  • Patent number: 5236451
    Abstract: Bi-leaflet heart valves have improved flow characteristics in their open position as a result of employing valve bodies of elongated axial dimension. By elongating the axial dimension of valve bodies which have straight, smooth interior wall surfaces oriented parallel to the centerline through the valve and to the flow path of blood, and by employing a pair of occluders which have major surfaces that are rectilinear and can assume an orientation that is substantially parallel to the centerline in the open position, a streamlining of blood flow occurs. The pivot arrangements avoid the use of acute angular surface orientations and cause the occluders, although aligned substantially parallel to blood flow in the open position, to promptly pivot toward the closed position upon reversal of blood flow. This streamlining substantially reduces turbulence and results in low head loss, both significant advantages in bi-leaflet heart valve performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1993
    Assignee: Onx, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack C. Bokros, Michael R. Emken, Axel D. Haubold, T. Scott Peters, Jonathan C. Stupka
  • Patent number: 5193578
    Abstract: The invention is an automatic drain valve for irrigation pipelines. The valve is located at the end of the pipe, and comprises a pivoted, spring lever attached to the outside of the pipe and attached to a valve stem and seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Inventor: Steven W. Noriyuki
  • Patent number: 5171137
    Abstract: Valve for a hermetic refrigeration compressor, having a cylinder block (10) with a cylinder (C) and a piston (20). A valve plate (30) attached to the cylinder block (10) has at least one axial gas passage (31, 32) communicating the inside of the cylinder (C) with the front face (30a) of the valve plate (30) through a respective reed valve at the outlet end (31b, 32b) of the respective gas passage (31, 32). The valve has a blade element (60, 80) and a biasing means (70, 90) disposed between the blade element (60, 80) and the valve plate (30) to displace said blade element to a partial opening position of the valve upon occurrence of pressure balance between the upstream and downstream regions of the valve, the biasing means (70, 90) itself being elastically deformed by the blade element (60, 80) when the valve closes, whenever the gas pressure downstream the valve exceeds the gas pressure upstream thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Assignee: Empressa Brasielira de compressores S/A-EMRACO
    Inventors: Marcio L. Todescat, Jose L. Driessen, Dietmar E. B. Lilie
  • Patent number: 5141020
    Abstract: An emergency vent valve for fuel storage tanks comprises a body member and a cover pivotally mounted thereon. The body member has a central passage which is sealed by cover in its closed position. The cover is held in this closed position by resetable latch means, which are responsive to a predetermined storage tank, vapor pressure to release the cover for displacement to an open position. In the open position, the cover is generally upright to provide an alert that the valve has been actuated. The latching means comprise a latch pin, mounted on the cover and a latch link, pivotal on the body member, having a cam surface, which is engaged by the latch pin to hold the cover in its closed position. A screw enables adjustment of the initial position of the latch link to vary the relative angle between the cam surface and the latch pin, to thus adjust the vapor pressure to which the valve is responsive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1992
    Assignee: Dover Corporation
    Inventors: Charles A. Sunderhaus, Chester W. Wood
  • Patent number: 5088905
    Abstract: A low side scroll compressor is provided with a pivoted bistable check valve. In the open position the valve is out of the direct discharge from the scrolls but in close proximity to the discharge tube such that upon stopping the compressor the reverse flow from the system impinges upon the valve member causing it to close.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Assignee: Carrier Corporation
    Inventor: Wayne P. Beagle
  • Patent number: 5004010
    Abstract: An improved hose rupture valve is disclosed for preventing the excessive and dangerous flow of fluid through a high pressure hose when the hose is ruptured or the pneumatic or hydraulic tool at the end thereof is accidentally decoupled downstream of the valve. The valve comprises a housing containing a cylinder having a pivotally mounted vane. During normal operation, the vane is held in an open position by biasing means such as a spring. When the hose downstream of the valve is ruptured or accidentally decoupled from the pneumatic or hydraulic tool, the pressure within the cylinder suddenly decreases relative to the pressure within the housing and the vane pivots into a closed position to prevent the excessive flow of fluid through the outlet port of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1991
    Inventor: Wilfred Huet
  • Patent number: 4993886
    Abstract: The new invention concerns the regulation of air volume in a conveying system comprising an air collecting line (37) in which the air volume and the corresponding air velocity, respectively, is regulated in the individual conveying pipelines (30-36) by a lifting body (4) resembling an airfoil. The latter works like a throttle flap and moves from an incidence angle (.alpha., .beta.) of at least 10 degrees in the completely open position to 90 degrees in the closed position as a result of the lifting moments acting on it. The lifting body (4) itself regulates the air volume by means of blocking the air line cross section to a greater or lesser extent, wherein a balance is adjusted in every case between the air forces and lifting moments, respectively, which act at the lifting body (4) so as to be directed in a closing position and a counterweight (5) or countertorque, respectively, acting at the lifting body (4) in the opening direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1991
    Assignee: Buehler AG
    Inventor: Hans Hofstetter
  • Patent number: 4994077
    Abstract: An artificial heart valve is designed to fit into a blood vessel when a patient is too weak to undergo open heart surgery. The valve has a disk shaped flap valve threaded on a bent wire which may be anchored in a blood vessel. One embodiment uses a clip anchor which is bent into somewhat the shape of a safety pin. Another embodiment uses a STENT as the anchor. The wire snags on the wall of the blood vessel in order to keep the valve from migrating through the blood vessel. The flap valve opens and closes under the pressure of blood which is ebbing and flowing responsive to a pumping heart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1991
    Inventor: Richard L. Dobben
  • Patent number: 4979651
    Abstract: A safety valve for a high pressure spray container including a short cylindrical portion with a sealed end. An annular flange with an annular groove is integrally connected to the open end of the cylindrical portion for clamping onto a high pressure spray container. An opening is formed in the cylindrical portion close to the sealed end. A flat spring member is disposed on the outer side of the opening for sealing the opening when the spray container is injected with liquid and pressurized air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 25, 1990
    Inventor: Jiin C. Lee
  • Patent number: 4874012
    Abstract: A magnetically operated flow device contains a flow responsive magnetically attractable body within a flow passage defining upstream and downstream directions therein. The body is movable in upstream and downstream directions in the passage. The passage includes upstream and downstream limit positions to define upstream and downstrean limits of movement of the body within the passage. Magnetic means are provided to attract the body against the fluid flow within the passage to the upstream limit position. The body constitutes a drag obstruction to fluid flow through the passage and will, therefore, decouple from its upstream magnetically retained position in the passage and move to the downstream limit position when drag froces (i.e. flow) increase to the design limit value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1989
    Assignee: Mallard Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Wallace W. Velie
  • Patent number: 4788999
    Abstract: The object of the invention is an automatic servo-controlled valve with high speed opening wherein the shutter is a hinged cover (20). Suitable locking means (30, 50) keep the cover (20) in a locked position up to the time when the pressure difference on the two faces of the cover exceeds a pre-determined minimum level. After the said locking means have moved to an open position, an actuator (40) operates the opening of the said cover at high speed (FIG. 1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1988
    Assignees: Ansaldo S.p.A., ENEA Comitato Nazionale per la Ricerca e lo Sviluppo dell'Energia Nucleare e delle Energie Alternative
    Inventor: Luigi Dalpane
  • Patent number: 4759696
    Abstract: A scroll compressor having a fixed scroll member and an orbiting scroll member. The fixed scroll member has an end plate and a wrap attached to the end plate in an involute curve and, similarly, the orbiting scroll member has an end plate and a wrap attached to the end plate thereof in a juxtaposed relation with the fixed scroll member so that the wraps of the two scroll members are fitted closely together. A check valve is provided so that an exhaust opening of the end plate is always opened when the compressor is in its operation and closed only when the operation is stopped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1988
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshio Ishiai
  • Patent number: 4730550
    Abstract: A seal and retainer assembly for an air compressor piston includes a cup-shaped seal with its marginal edge extending at an angle relative to the cylinder wall, the seal having a notch extending circumferentially at the base of its marginal edge defining a hinge which allows pivoting of the marginal edge relative to the main body portion of the seal which is clamped to the piston. A head plate includes an air intake port for communicating the compression chamber with an air inlet and a discharge port for communicating the compression chamber with a compressed air discharge outlet, each of the ports having a flexible spring closure member cooperating with an inclined valve seat to allow the ports to be open whenever the compressor is shut off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1988
    Assignee: Thomas Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Bramstedt, Thomas R. Hetzel, Charles E. LaBelle