Electrical Patents (Class 137/554)
  • Patent number: 5706855
    Abstract: In a device for monitoring the valve stroke of a valve that is pneumatically or hydraulically driven and comprises a valve body that is actuated by means of a pressure spindle (16), in particular, a diaphragm valve, a control spindle (20) is effectively connected to the pressure spindle (16). A control element (38) is arranged on the control spindle (20) in order to actuate a measuring element that serves as a signal transmitter for the valve position. The control element (38) has a control surface (40) that is inclined relative to the actuating axis (z) of the control spindle (20), and a displacement transducer (36) that measures the respective distance from the control surface (40) which corresponds to the valve position is arranged on the valve.This device makes it possible to monitor continuously the valve stroke over the entire range of movement of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: Georg Fischer Rohrleitungssysteme AG
    Inventor: Martin Heiniger
  • Patent number: 5704586
    Abstract: Known position indicators for magnetic valves are switches which may be activated by cams on the moving parts. Following installation an individual adjustment has to be performed in order to obtain a precise acknowledgment. This disadvantage is avoided and a better monitoring of the functioning of the valve is obtained by detecting the position by means of a continuous position signaler where the data obtained from the putting into service are used as reference data at later determinations of extreme positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventor: Ole Cramer Nielsen
  • Patent number: 5704392
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for cycling a valve having a valve operator for rotationally operating the valve. The apparatus includes a rotary actuator having an output shaft for developing a rotational force and a torque-sensing release clutch for transferring the rotational force to the valve operator. The torque-sensing release clutch decouples the rotational force from the valve operator upon sensing torque at least as great as a preset torque limit. In a preferred embodiment, an adaptive mounting assembly mounts the apparatus to the valve, providing three-dimensional adjustment of the clutch position relative to the valve operator. A counter counts turns of the valve operator to measure and indicate position of the valve, and a switch disables the rotary actuator when the clutch decouples the rotational force from the valve operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Assignee: Valve Management Services, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Frew
  • Patent number: 5699830
    Abstract: The present invention provides a solenoid valve controller with simple arrangement, by which it is possible to easily check connecting conditions and operating conditions of solenoid valves. Between a plurality of solenoid valves 11 intensively installed and a serial unit 2 for performing on-off control of each of the solenoid valves according to a control signal from the controller, a switch unit 3 having a plurality of manual switches 30a to 30n to match each of the solenoid valves 11 is connected, and it is designed that each of the manual switches can be switched over to a first switching position to connect the solenoid valves 11 to output terminals 21a to 21n of the serial unit and to a second switching position to connect the solenoid valves to power terminals 20a and 20b.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Bunya Hayashi, Keisuke Shimauchi
  • Patent number: 5694117
    Abstract: An alarm system for a particular type of lifting seal type valve, such as those employed in pressure relief. The alarm system consists of a signal source, an alarm mechanism and a signal carrying conductor secured to a seated lifting seal valve in such a manner that valve actuation will disrupt the transmission, interrupting the signal and activating the alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: C. Alan Sugarek
  • Patent number: 5685336
    Abstract: Device for monitoring the valve lift of a pneumatically or hydraulically driven valve, the valve body of which is actuated by a pressure spindle (16), specificelly a diaphragm valve where a drive spindle (20) and pressure spindle (16) are effectively connected. Two trip cams (38, 40) separated by the distance (a) are mounted on the drive spindle (20) to activate two limit switches (34,35) that act as position indicators for the two valve positions, whereby one trip cam (38, 40) is assigned to one limit switch (34, 35). The automatic positioning of the trip cams (38, 40) during the initial actuation of the valve is accomplished by a crossbar (36) that acts as a driver and is located between trip cams (38, 40). The trip cams (38,40) are mounted on drive spindle (20) by moveable clamps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Assignee: Georg Fischer Rohrleitungssysteme AG
    Inventor: Martin Heiniger
  • Patent number: 5685697
    Abstract: A check valve, for use in a vacuum accumulator. The check valve includes a movable gate, which blocks fluid flow. The gate carries a first electrical contact, which mates with a second electrical contact, when the gate closes, thereby issuing a signal which indicates closure. The invention eliminates the need for a separate pressure sensor, for sensing pressure within the accumulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Assignee: ITT Automotive Electrical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry C. Buchanan, Jr., Peter S. Zhou
  • Patent number: 5680878
    Abstract: A method and apparatus employs a measurement device placed on an automatic control valve to test the speed of response of the control valve and any lost motion created by or within any mechanical linkage or connection used to automatically actuate the valve. A chain link clamp is attached between the valve shaft and a device for measuring the movement of the valve stem of the control valve to provide positive movement indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1997
    Assignee: The Mead Corporation
    Inventor: Lawrence J. Chouinard, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5669413
    Abstract: A valve apparatus for controlling a pressured fluid, in which the shut-off device is force closed by the pressured fluid which is admitted into a chamber via a throttle bore. The valve is opened via a drive means, which acts directly on both a pilot valve and on the shut-off device, without the interposition of an actuating fluid. The drive means first opens a pilot valve, thereby allowing the pressured fluid to escape from the chamber and to the outlet. The drive means then opens the shut-off device. The reduction in pressure in the chamber enables a drive means of only moderate power to complete the second step of opening the shut-off device. The drive means acts directly on the shut-off device; thus the control action corresponds directly to the stroke displacement of the drive means at any particular moment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: Staefa Control System SCS AG
    Inventors: Andreas Hegglin, Giuseppe Pulli, Manuel Bruhlmann
  • Patent number: 5647396
    Abstract: A modular valve position indicator which interfaces with a valve, actuator and other auxiliary equipment meeting NAMUR standards is described. The position of the valve within the flow circuit is indicated by at least one of an LED display and color coded indicia. A drum having the color coded indicia thereon, rotates through a window defined by members of the indicator in response to the rotation of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Assignee: StoneL Corporation
    Inventors: Wallace F. Stommes, Ross S. Kunz, Bryan A. Beckman, Christopher J. Kunz
  • Patent number: 5630440
    Abstract: A piezo-electrically actuated hydraulic valve has a nozzle type seat and a piezo-electric actuator in a plane orthogonal to the axis of the nozzle. The actuator includes a piezo-ceramic layer laminated to an electrode sheet, so that the composite is in sheet form and parallel to the plane of the seat. The electrode sheet has opposite edges which extend beyond the piezo-ceramic layer and are clamped by the housing of the valve so that the center of the actuator is positioned over the seat, and in the preferred embodiment normally closes the seat. When an electric field is applied to the piezo-ceramic layer, the actuator bows or dishes so as to displace relative to the nozzle. The electric field may be applied proportionally, in which case the actuator displaces proportionally to the field applied, the field may be applied as a pulse width modulated signal, in which case the displacement of the actuator also modulates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Assignee: Applied Power Inc.
    Inventors: Dale A. Knutson, George R. Steber
  • Patent number: 5626165
    Abstract: When an armature is displaced by application of a voltage to an electromagnetic coil, a second elastic member contracts in opposition to the restorative force of the second elastic member, wherein a washer, the second elastic member, and the armature are displaced integrally. The armature abuts against the washer, and thereafter a first elastic member is compressed in a direction to close the valve, the first elastic member being compressed in opposition to its restorative force, whereby a main valve body is separated from a valve seat. As a result, exhaust gas is introduced through an inlet port and communicates with an outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Assignee: Hadsys, Inc.
    Inventor: Hideyuki Shinobu
  • Patent number: 5623963
    Abstract: A modular valve position indicator which interfaces with a valve, actuator and other auxiliary equipment meeting NAMUR standards is described. The position of the valve within the flow circuit is indicated by at least one of an LED display and color coded indicia. A drum having the color coded indicia thereon, rotates through a window defined by members of the indicator in response to the rotation of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Assignee: StoneL Corporation
    Inventors: Wallace F. Stommes, Ross S. Kunz, Bryan A. Beckman, Christopher J. Kunz
  • Patent number: 5620024
    Abstract: An operation member (51) is fixedly secured to a right portion of a relief member (29) inserted into a housing (20). An annular transmission member (52) externally fitted to the operation member (51) is supported by a guide groove (62) so as to be vertically movable and is urged downward by a spring (74). When the relief member (29) doesn't perform the relief operation, a detected portion (65) of the transmission member (52) is made to access a detecting portion (68) of a proximity switch (14) by the operation member (51). At the time of the relief operation, the relief member (29) and the operation member (51) are rapidly moved rightward, so that the detected portion (65) is spaced apart from the detecting portion (68) by the spring (74).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha KOSMEK
    Inventor: Keitaro Yonezawa
  • Patent number: 5613516
    Abstract: A combination hydraulic pressure regulator and pressure switch includes a housing having an interior chamber connecting an inlet port to an outlet port. A seating device is movably received in the interior chamber and has a seat surrounding an opening. The opening is in communication with the outlet port. A poppet is movable in the interior chamber. An adjustment spring normally urges the poppet into engagement with the seat to close the opening, the poppet being movable in a direction away from the seat in response to hydraulic pressure in the interior chamber sufficient to overcome the force of the adjustment spring. A limit switch is mounted to the body. A switch actuator is associated with the poppet for actuating the limit switch in response to movement of the poppet in a direction away from the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Assignee: Power Team Division of SPX Corporation
    Inventor: Michael T. Landrum
  • Patent number: 5609183
    Abstract: This invention relates to a butterfly valve incorporating means for accurately sensing the position of the valve disc within the valve body. One or two coils are embedded within the valve seal. A current is generated within one of the coils and a sensor connected either to the same coil or the other coil measures the change in induction characteristics of the coil as the disc is moved. The signal sensed by the sensor is indicative of the disc position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: BTR plc
    Inventor: Christopher J. Parker
  • Patent number: 5609184
    Abstract: The proposed device is intended for use in motor vehicles and permits a high level of accuracy in measurement and simple and cost-effective manufacture. It comprises a shaft component (12) arranged adjustably in a housing element (21) and a rotating unit (20') of a rotation angle sensor (2) which can move in relation to the fixed unit (20). The stator element (21) consists of two rounded cusp-shaped subcomponents held with a bracing unit and secured in a stator mount (23). There is a clearance recess between the subcomponents of the stator element. The rotating unit (20') is a ring-shaped magnet element (24) held by a magnet holder (26,27) connected to the shaft element (12); this arrangement allows the magnet element (24) to move around the stator element subcomponents leaving an air gap (25). The housing element (13) can be constructed in many parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: AB Elektronik GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Apel, Marion Hauschopp, Klaus Wilczek
  • Patent number: 5595215
    Abstract: A fluid flow control valve includes first and second electrically conductive body members separated by an electrically active separation member having electrical resistance. A valve actuation member is slidably located within the second body member, making a sliding electrical contact with the second body member. The valve actuation member can move from a first position spaced from the first body member to a second position electrically connecting the first body member with the second body member, thus forming a low resistance electrical connection. In its first position spaced from the first body member, the resistance of the electrical connection between the body members depends on the electrical resistance of the separation member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Assignee: Perkins Limited
    Inventors: Ian F. Wallace, John Stamford
  • Patent number: 5584319
    Abstract: There is described an electro-optical monitoring switch circuit design typically used for fire protection, sprinkler system valves. It comprises a light generating device responsive to a repetitive, pulse signal. Light emitting from the light generating device is directed towards the valve stem portion of the valve. Light emitted by the light generating device is reflected off of the valve stem of the valve in a first position and received by an electro-optical device such as a phototransistor. If the valve stem is moved to close the valve, there is no reflected light. Assuming the first position condition, the phototransistor produces an electrical signal substantially identical to the light generating signal. A phase comparator circuit monitors the output of the phototransistor, comparing it to the signal which excites the light generating device. When the two are synchronous, the comparator circuit produces a similar signal at its output. This obviates false indications due to noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: J. M. Cholin Consultants, Inc.
    Inventor: John M. Cholin
  • Patent number: 5583434
    Abstract: A method for determining the position of an armature of a dc-powered solenoid. Electrical circuitry is provided to introduce a small alternating current flow through the coil. As a result, the impedance and resistance of the solenoid coil can be measured to provide information indicative of the armature's position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Martin Marietta Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Moyers, Howard D. Haynes
  • Patent number: 5579800
    Abstract: An improved rotary valve indicator apparatus (10) and method is disclosed that includes an electronics switch housing (15), filled with epoxy or other generally elastomeric material (29) to hermetically seal, thus environmentally seal, the switch housing (15). A pair of hermetically sealed reed switches (30, 32) are employed within the electronics switch housing (15) for indicating the open and closed position of the valve (17). A pair of corresponding magnets (26, 28) are mounted within a separate magnet holder (16) that is mounted to a rotatable member (20) of a rotary valve actuator (13). Light emitting diodes (42, 44) radiate from a side portion (57) of the electronics switch housing (15) and are connected in a manner whereby they indicate not only that the respective switch (30, 32) is closed but also that it is conducting electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Keystone International Holdings Corp.
    Inventor: Daniel Walker
  • Patent number: 5575309
    Abstract: A solenoid actuator for a fluid flow valve comprises a closure member (64) adapted to engage a fluid flow orifice (16), and includes a magnetic plunger (46) under the control of a solenoid, for moving the closure member (64) into or out of engagement with the orifice (16). To assist the opening of the valve, a diaphragm spring (66) aids the downward force upon plunger (46) at changeover, being deflected during the upward stroke of plunger (46) and held deflected until changeover.The solenoid plunger (46) is stable at either end of its travel to maintain the selected state of the valve, change of state to open or close orifice (16) being by means of an magnetic pulse generated by solenoid coil (43), the plunger (46) being latched at closure by permanent magnets (32,34).The diaphragm spring (66) may form part of an assembly (62) including a membrane switch (70), responsive to the state of the valve, the assembly (62) fitting into the body of the closure member (64).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1996
    Assignee: BLP Components Limited
    Inventor: Richard A. Connell
  • Patent number: 5570015
    Abstract: A linear positional displacement detector including a magnetic sensor unit (23) having a magnetic sensing surface formed by a ferromagnetic magnetoresistance element (23a) having a predetermined pattern, and an elongated permanent magnet (22) having a magnetic pole face (22a) at each end. The permanent magnet (22) is movable along its longitudinal axis and magnetically coupled with the magnetic sensor unit (23) with the longitudinal axis positioned on an extended surface of the magnetic sensing surface (23b). A positional displacement of the permanent magnet (22) along the longitudinal axis is detected as a change in the direction of a magnetic flux crossing in parallel the magnetic sensing surface (23b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tadao Takaishi, Masami Matsumura, Tokuo Marumoto, Masahiro Yokotani
  • Patent number: 5564677
    Abstract: A linear actuator for actuating a valve or other control element. The actuator measures the in-line or axial force exerted on a drive sleeve after the valve disk engages the valve seat or back seat In response to detection of an axial force in excess of a predetermined threshold level, the motor is de-energized. The linear actuator includes a drive sleeve rotatably supported by bearings; a pack of friction springs for axially supporting the drive sleeve; a drive motor for driving rotation of the drive sleeve by way of gearing; a ball screw nut coupled inside and coaxial with the drive sleeve such that the ball screw nut rotates with the drive sleeve; a ball screw which translates axially in response to rotation of the ball screw nut; an anti-rotation device for preventing rotation of the ball screw during its translation; a switch for controlling the ON-OFF state of the motor; and a mechanical assembly for actuating the switch in response to a predetermined amount of axial deflection of the drive sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: George L. Levy, John J. Boseman, Hassan Ehsan, Clyde T. Nieh
  • Patent number: 5564470
    Abstract: A valve assembly comprising a valve body, an obturator rotatably mounted in the body and a transducer connected to or located adjacent the obturator in order to determine the position thereof.The transducer may comprise e.g. a potentiometer or a Hall effect device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: BTR plc
    Inventors: Martin W. Denmark, Stephen M. Buchan
  • Patent number: 5560392
    Abstract: A valve for a measuring device for the measurement of the physical properties of a fluid in a pipe line has a housing with two coaxial openings for the passage phased in the pipe line. In the housing a valve closure ball is rotatably mounted about a transverse axis. The valve closure ball has a flow channel which, in a first rotary angle position connects to the two openings. In a second rotary angle position turned through about 90.degree. with respect to the first, the valve closure ball blocks the flow between the openings. The piece has a circumferential surface forming a part of a spherical surface, which cooperates with a corresponding valve seating surface on the inside of the valve housing in the manner of a ball valve. In a housing bore coaxial to the axis of rotation of the valve closure ball, which communicates with the flow channel, a sensor is sealingly mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Inventors: Edmund C. Spang, Hans-Jurgen Postberg
  • Patent number: 5538037
    Abstract: A device 3 for indicating the operating state of a linear actuation valve (5) comprises a mounting plate (9) having a rectilinear slot (11) therein for slidably receiving a perpendicularly extending follower stem (6) fixed to a follower nut (4). The nut (4) is threaded on to the exterior of a sleeve (7) which is mounted for conjoint rotation with the hub of a hand wheel (2) of the linear actuation valve. Engagement of the follower stem (6) with the slot (9) prevents rotation of the nut (4) and provokes it to move axially relative to the sleeve (7).The mounting plate (9) also includes means for fixing sensors (15) and (16) to the plate for detecting arrival of the follower stem (6) moving along the slot in either of two positions to be detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Assignee: Petroleo Brasileiro S.A. - Petrobras
    Inventor: M arcio R. Piz ao
  • Patent number: 5523682
    Abstract: A system to determine the position of an electrically conductive element movably positioned in a housing, like a metal disc in a check valve, with greater accuracy and resolution than single magnet systems includes first and second A.C. electromagnets positioned in close proximity to the element on opposing sides of the housing. The magnets are excited with A.C. currents to generate magnetic fields which penetrate the housing and the element. The magnetic fields are sensed by a magnetic field sensor. A control portion of the system includes a microprocessor configured to allow an operator to adjustably select and set a common frequency, individual amplitudes and a phase difference between the two currents supplied to the two magnets so that the currents might be adjusted to cause the magnets to generate magnetic fields at least partially and preferably essentially cancelling one another at the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Assignee: Liberty Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert L. Leon
  • Patent number: 5522414
    Abstract: A fluid flow sensor is provided for use in a remote location from a fluid delivery system, such as a lubricant or grease delivery system for lubricating parts. The fluid flow sensor includes a body defining a lubricant conveying passageway having a seat, and a poppet configured to engage the seat. The poppet is biased against the seat by a spring, but is moveable off the seat when fluid is moved through the passageway. The poppet includes a rod that extends upstream from the poppet through an aperture in the passageway, and a piston is positioned abuttingly against the end of the rod and biased against the rod by a spring so that the piston will move with the poppet as the poppet is moved off the seat in a first direction. A proximity switch is positioned perpendicularly to the first direction adjacent the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Assignee: G. P. Reeves, Inc.
    Inventor: Gordon P. Reeves
  • Patent number: 5521840
    Abstract: Loose parts are sensed moving in a conduit carrying a flowing material, such as the cooling circuit of a pressurized water nuclear reactor. An acoustic pickup produces an electrical signal with vibration of the conduit due to impact of the loose part, and background noise. A signal processor encodes the values of distinct parameters of the electrical signal such as amplitude, amplitude at particular frequencies, etc., in an ongoing manner, producing discrete output values. These outputs are coupled as inputs to a neural network with physical or logical neuron cells loaded with weighting factors affecting the strength and polarity of neural interconnections. The factors represent the acoustic signature of the loose part. Products of the input values and the weighting factors are summed to produce one or more neural network outputs, compared to a threshold. The sum normally varies randomly, but has a strong swing when the pattern is encountered, due to the factors emphasizing the pattern over background noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corporation
    Inventor: Fred H. Bednar
  • Patent number: 5518028
    Abstract: An adjustable magnet carrier 100 for a rotary valve indicator apparatus 10 is disclosed. The adjustable magnet carrier 100 includes an extension member 117 having an extension member body 118, an extension member body top 119, and an extension body base 121. Upper and lower magnet carriers 144, 146 selectively rotate about extension member 117 to adjust the stand-off between the magnets 102, 104 and the magnetically responsive switches 30, 32. The magnetically responsive switches are hermetically sealed within a separate electronics switch housing 15. Light-emitting diodes 42, 44 radiate from electronics switch housing 15 in response to switches 30, 32. Drive shafts 124, 128 rotate the magnet carriers 144, 146. The outer surfaces of the upper and lower magnet carriers 144, 146, the ends of drive shafts 124, 128, and the light-emitting diodes 42, 44 are color-coded to correspond to each other and to the open and closed positions of rotary valve element 19.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Assignee: Keystone International Holdings Corp.
    Inventor: Daniel Walker
  • Patent number: 5518015
    Abstract: An automatically-calibrating electrically-controlled diaphragm valve actuator has a stepper motor controlled by a controller mechanism for moving the actuator within a diaphragm valve. A reference position indicator is provided to signal the controller mechanism when the valve actuator is at a reference position within the actuator's linear stroke. A method for automatically calibrating an electrically controlled diaphragm valve actuator includes the following steps. The actuator is initially driven to a reference position. Second, the actuator is driven a first number of steps. Third, the actuator is returned to the reference position. Fourth, it is determined whether fall back has occurred. Fifth, a second number of steps is determined based upon whether fall back has occurred. Sixth, the actuator is driven the second number of steps in order to compensate for the fall back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Assignee: Gas Research Institute
    Inventors: Mark D. Berget, Dennis L. Manthei
  • Patent number: 5506570
    Abstract: A warning announcer for a gasoline dispenser having a pump flow counter, a pump bar switch and/or a nozzle position sensor, a dispenser nozzle, and a nozzle receptacle, including a logic unit, a timer, a speaker, a voice alarm unit for providing a message to the speaker, a circuit for connecting signals from the pump flow counter and the pump bar switch or position sensor to the logic unit for controlling the timer to produce a message signal, and a circuit for connecting the timer to the voice alarm unit for initiating a message when the timer produces a messages signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventors: Paul B. Scott, Steve R. Vezerian
  • Patent number: 5504426
    Abstract: Electromagnetic field pulses are induced in an electrically conductive/magnetically permeable housing and valving element movable within the housing of a check valve by an energizing coil placed against the housing and forming a loop extending substantially over the full range of travel of the valving element. At least two sensing coils positioned within the loop of the energizing coil proximate the two ends of the range of travel of the valving element, and preferably an array including additional sensing coils spaced between the two end coils, detect transient responses to the induced pulses from which the position of the valving element is determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Roy J. Ricci, Gary L. Hill, Charles A. Burton, Rodney M. Eslinger
  • Patent number: 5502380
    Abstract: A magnet mounted on a moving stem or rotary member of a valve generates magnetic flux over part of a stationary member of the valve which has an uniquely patterned set of magnetoresistive sense resistors and three reference resistors (the sensor) disposed thereon. The distance between two adjacent patterns can be equally spaced, or can be compressed for valves with non-linear characteristics in order to achieve increased resolution over a specific portion of the valve travel. Other embodiments can use a light source, beta radiation or neutron radiation as the source of flux, the pattern for each embodiment's sensor having some material responsive and some unresponsive to the flux. The sensor can provide feedback representative of position in a valve positioner, or functions as the position sensor in a position transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: Rosemount Inc.
    Inventors: Fred C. Sittler, Kathryn M. Howard
  • Patent number: 5500882
    Abstract: A portable flow timer device for determining the time between two successive fluid flow detection signals input thereto comprising an electric timer mechanism including an input probe connector mechanism for receiving fluid flow detection signals from external fluid detection probes coupleable thereto, a bridge circuit mechanism for receiving a fluid flow detection signal and transmitting a timer activation signal and for receiving a succeeding fluid flow detection signal and transmitting a timer de-activation signal, a resetable count-down logic mechanism for transmitting a plurality of timer signals at a set timing interval based upon receipt of the timer activation signal and for preventing transmission of the timer signals based upon receipt of the timer de-activation signal, a display mechanism for receiving the timer signals and displaying elapsed time from receipt of timer signals up to their cessation, and a battery mechanism for supplying electric energy for operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Inventor: John W. Eifert
  • Patent number: 5497804
    Abstract: An apparatus for determining the spool position of a directional valve is disclosed. A longitudinal valve housing has opposed ends and a plurality of fluid ports, and a spool moves reciprocatingly within the valve housing. A first spring disposed adjacent an end of the spool extends and retracts with the reciprocating movement of the spool. A first oscillator circuit is coupled to the first spring and is adapted to produce a first position signal in response to the inductance of the first spring. Finally, a logic device determines the incremental linear position of the spool relative to the housing in response to the frequency of the first position signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: George Codina, Eldon D. Oestmann, Gary J. Shane
  • Patent number: 5485866
    Abstract: A valve to monitor the level of fluid in an above ground storage tank while the tank is being filled, cutoff the flow of fluid when the tank is in a full condition, and as long as the filling pressure is on the valve the valve will remain cutoff even if the fluid level in the tank has lowered. A relief valve to drain the fluid remaining in the filling hose after the filling pressure is off. A sight level indicator to visually show that the tank is in a filled condition. A monitoring node to be used with or without the mechanical cutoff valve in a totally controlled application where the filling person is not responsible for shutting off the filling tank truck, with two switches, one to alert that the tank is near a filled condition and the second to alert that the tank is in a filled condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Inventor: James H. Bowen
  • Patent number: 5484352
    Abstract: A detector switch of the present invention is capable of confirming that an electrical signal from a controller to an electromagnetic valve has been transformed into the operation of a control valve spool when the speed of a transmission of automobiles or construction machines is changed. To achieve this, in a transmission having control valves having a spool (3) for changing the hydraulic pressure of a transmission clutch, a controller (5) for turning ON and OFF electromagnetic valves (2.sub.1, 2.sub.2, 2.sub.3,) the control valves (1.sub.1, 1.sub.2, 1.sub.3) are provided with a detector switch (7) which is capable of transmitting a signal to the controller (5) when the spool (3) abuts against the switch (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Komatsu Seisakusho
    Inventor: Masaaki Kuma
  • Patent number: 5481237
    Abstract: A solenoid valve with protective cap (10) having electrical connection elements (11, 13) attached to the cap fits only the electromagnet (2) of a solenoid valve (1). A cavity (12) situated in the cap makes it possible to add on circuit band unit (20) providing circuits which complement the solenoid valve but vary from user to user. Cable connection elements, elements for visual indication of the functional state, delay circuits, interference-suppressing circuits, intrinsic safety circuits, circuits for detecting the position of the moving core, circuits for detecting the presence of fluid, logical indexing circuits etc. may be mentioned as examples of circuit elements which complement the solenoid valve. The solenoid valve also comprises connection elements (18) which permit a rational and cableless electrical link between at least two solenoid valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Assignee: Fluid Automation Systems S.A.
    Inventors: Georges Sarfati, Peter Merz, Freddy Sarfati
  • Patent number: 5477149
    Abstract: A non-invasive apparatus and method is disclosed which is adapted for testing of solenoid valves to verify valve operation. The non-invasive apparatus and method monitors with time both the stroke of the solenoid valve plunger to identify associated impacts and the state of the solenoid valve as being energized or de-energized to determine valve operability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventors: George M. Spencer, John W. McElroy, Michael H. Lind
  • Patent number: 5471138
    Abstract: The motion of a DISC for a check valve is tested and sensed by placing coil sensors on the check valve. The coils produce a magnetic field within the valve near the DISC such that the DISC moves through the magnetic field. The coils are connected to a sensing circuit having an LED display. The sensing circuit is also connected with a tape recorder for taping a signal output by the sensing circuit. The recorded signal by the tape recorder can be subjected to further analysis. The LED display of the sensing circuit can also be used to create a stand-alone indicator of valve actuation. An oscillator of the sensing circuit produces a sinusoidal excitation wave which is amplified and transmitted to the coils for producing the magnetic fields. The coils have approximately the same resistance and inductance such that they form a balanced bridge circuit. If the two coils are perfectly balanced, the output from the bridge circuit is zero.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Inventors: Samuel W. Glass, III, Timothy A. Rossman, Vedat T. Ataman
  • Patent number: 5446449
    Abstract: A monitoring system comprising at least, a first and a second indicator unit each associated with at least one fluid distribution line and each including at least two series of indicators, each series being associated with at least one pick-up of the magnitude of a fluid which circulates in a distribution line and comprising at least two indicator lights for the thresholds of the magnitude, wherein the thresholds may be adjusted by a programming unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Taema
    Inventors: Gerard Lhomer, Gilbert Theurant
  • Patent number: 5439028
    Abstract: A modular valve field convertible between a wet and dry configuration including a valve body and a passage within the valve body for allowing fluid to flow therethrough. A valve seat and clapper are positioned within the valve body. The clapper is allowed to pivot between a first position wherein the clapper is sealingly engaged with the valve seat and a second position wherein the clapper is spaced from the valve seat to allow fluid to flow through the valve. The operator controls the position of the clapper with respect to the valve seat. An operator securely retains the clapper in the first position in a first mode of operation and allows the clapper to freely move between the first and second positions in a second mode of operation. A controller governs the position of the clapper with respect to the valve seat when the operator is in the second mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Assignee: Central Sprinkler Corporation
    Inventors: George G. Meyer, Stephen J. Meyer, William J. Reilly
  • Patent number: 5435336
    Abstract: A controlled valve comprising a substantially hollow and elongate body fitted at its longitudinal ends with means for coupling to a pipe that is to be closed, the body including a transverse partition with a central channel formed therethrough, and also including a closure element that is movable parallel to the fluid flow between a closed position in which a zone of said element is in contact with a stationary bearing surface formed on the transverse partition and an open position in which said zone is at a distance from said bearing surface, in which the closure element is in the form of a piston having two end heads slidably mounted in two respective chambers that are coaxial with the channel and that are situated inside the body on opposite sides of the transverse partition, and the sum of the projections in a transverse plane of the surface areas of the element exposed to the pressure that exists in the pipe upstream from the zone of contact between the closure element and the bearing surface and that fa
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: Legris S.A.
    Inventor: Pierre Serot
  • Patent number: 5433245
    Abstract: A motor operated valve monitoring system utilizes two diagnostic couplings with quick disconnect electrical connectors. One coupling is used for monitoring switch actuation on the motor operated valve, and the second is for measuring three phase power to an AC motor on the valve. These couplings are connected in-line with the quick disconnect connectors and allows the user to perform a test without having to remove the limit switch cover from the actuator. These couplings will reduce testing time for conventional valve monitoring systems, and provide for readily mountable sensors for installation of an online valve diagnostic system to an existing valve and valve operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Bryan E. Prather, Joseph N. Nadeau
  • Patent number: 5433244
    Abstract: A solenoid control valve includes a solenoid housing which encloses a solenoid and an armature which is actuated by the solinoid in order to control the flow of fluid through the valve. contact spring makes continuous electrical contact with the armature and the armature is electrically insulated from the valve except when the solenoid brings the armature into contact with a stop portion which is integrally formed in the body of the valve. Contact between the armature and the stop completes an electrical circuit between the spring contact, the armature and the valve body, thereby providing a precise electrical indication of the mechanical state of the valve without any degradation due to hysteresis or mechanical losses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Inventor: Akos Sule
  • Patent number: 5427137
    Abstract: A valve to monitor the level of fluid in an above ground storage tank while the tank is being filled, cutoff the flow of fluid when the tank is in a full condition, and as long as the filling pressure is on the valve the valve will remain cutoff even if the fluid level in the tank has lowered. A relief valve to drain the fluid remaining in the filling hose after the filling pressure is off. A sight level indicator to visually show that the tank is in a filled condition. A monitoring node to be used with or without the mechanical cutoff valve in a totally controlled application where the filling person is not responsible for shutting off the filling tank truck, with two switches, one to alert that the tank is near a filled condition and the second to alert that the tank is in a filled condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Inventor: James H. Bowen
  • Patent number: 5427140
    Abstract: A valve assembly is disclosed which comprises a screw spindle threadingly mounted to a valve housing and having a tap handle secured to a first end and a valve disc located at a second end, and wherein rotation of the spindle causes the valve assembly to move between an open and a closed position. The valve assembly further incorporates an indicator arranged to indicate a predetermined degree of rotation of the spindle from the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Inventor: John Bosanquet
  • Patent number: 5425393
    Abstract: A backflow prevention assembly is disclosed which provides for detection of backflow conditions. The backflow preventer assembly includes a housing having an inlet, an outlet and a discharge opening. A pair of independent check valves is positioned within the housing between the inlet and the outlet. The check valves are mechanically and hydraulically independent from each other and each adapted to seal the inlet from the outlet during backflow conditions. A relief valve is positioned within the housing between the check valves to selectively seal the discharge opening. An alarm is coupled to the relief valve to provide a signal when the relief valve is opened indicating backflow and discharge conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1995
    Assignee: Zurn Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Jon A. Everett