Closed Circulating System Patents (Class 137/563)
  • Patent number: 6142179
    Abstract: Apparatus for feeding fuel to an engine is disclosed including a storage tank and a supply tank, the storage tank having a substantially greater volume than the supply tank, a filter, a first conduit for feeding the fuel from the storage tank to the filter to provide filtered fuel, a second conduit for feeding the filtered fuel from the filter to the supply tank, a third conduit for supplying the filtered fuel from the supply tank to the engine, and a fourth conduit for recirculating excess fuel from the supply tank to the storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventors: Aegir Bjornsson, Bjorn Bjornsson, Arvid Corneliussen
  • Patent number: 6125880
    Abstract: Subject of the invention is a mass flow (volume flow) stabilising circulation system, which consists of independently operated circulation loops via two or more mass flow stabilising bridges (6). (FIG. 2)Furthermore the subject of the invention is a mass flow (volume flow) stabilising bridge (6), which consists of the hydraulic bridge (9) with inlet (7) and outlet (8) primary couplings, the outlet (10) and inlet (17) secondary couplings, furthermore the secondary delivery pipe (2b) with outlet connection (12) and the secondary return pipe (3b) with inlet connection (13). An equipment for circulation (4) is installed into the secondary return pipe (3b). (FIG. 3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Komfort 2001 Ltd.
    Inventor: Sandor Szilagyi
  • Patent number: 6089263
    Abstract: A distribution device for a circuit operated with a liquid medium for a heating system or a cooling system, such as a hot water heating plant, a solar plant or the like. The distribution device serves to separate the medium into individual circuits each having a distribution pipe for forward and return flow, wherein the distribution pipes are provided with regulating and locking members as well as, if necessary, measuring and indicating members for the individual circuits. The regulating and locking members include members for preadjusting the maximum flow rate and for regulating the respective circuit, wherein the regulating and locking members are each combined in a fitting with only one valve body with flow from the front against the valve body, and wherein the regulating and locking members are exclusively arranged in the return flow pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Dumser Metallbau GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Josef Dumser
  • Patent number: 6062259
    Abstract: An installation for connection to a water piping system comprising a water main and at least one branch pipe, for preventing a stagnation of water inside that branch pipe. A pumping unit is connected to first and second openings in the far end of the branch pipe for pumping water samples out of the branch pipe through the first opening, and back into the branch pipe through the second opening. The installation also comprises a conduit extending inside the branch pipe from the second opening to a proximity of the water main. The pumping unit is continually or intermittently operated for sampling a portion of the still or slow moving water at the far end of a branch pipe, and for pumping these water samples near the water main where the water flow inside the pipe is more active. Such circulation of water in a branch pipe prevents the stagnation of water at the far end of the branch pipe. In another aspect, there is provided a method for preventing stagnation of water in a water supply system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Blair J. Poirier
  • Patent number: 6058958
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pulsatile flow system and method. The pulsatile flow system includes a reservoir, a pressure riser and a first fluid passage connected between the reservoir and the pressure riser. The system further includes a device adapted to expel fluid from the reservoir through the first fluid passage to the pressure riser. A second fluid passage is connected between the pressure riser and the reservoir, and is adapted to allow fluid to flow unidirectionally therethrough, from the pressure riser to the reservoir. The pulsatile flow system may be adapted to provide pulsatile fluid flow through a medical device, such as a ventricle assist device or mechanical heart valve, to replicate a heart's pumping action for testing the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: MicroMed Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Benkowski, Bryan E. Lynch
  • Patent number: 6050282
    Abstract: A batch system wherein a constant, metered flow, is established for each of the ingredients of the batch. Having a constant flow rate and constant pressure in the fluid flow, a diverter valve diverts the flow for a predetermined length of time to yield a predetermined volume of each ingredient. Since each ingredient is in a separate flow path, the diverter valve can provide one ingredient at a time, or a plurality of ingredients at a time. A computer controlling the system stores various recipes or batch formulas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Kuesters Corporation
    Inventor: Alvin W. Whaley
  • Patent number: 6021803
    Abstract: Tapping point including a mixer (10) for cold and hot water where the mixer (10) has a hot water inlet (20) arranged to connect to a feed pipe (64) for hot water, a cold water inlet (40) arranged to connect to a feed pipe (70) for cold water, a mixing chamber (32) for mixing hot water introduced through the hot water inlet (20) with cold water introduced through the cold water inlet (40), a space for hot water (22) between the hot water inlet and the mixing chamber (32), a space for cold water (42) between the cold water inlet (40) and the mixing chamber (32), a mixer outlet (34) for mixed water from the mixing chamber (32), and an initial valve device (30,36,50) arranged so that in an open mixing position, it allows cold water and hot water to enter into the mixing chamber (32) from their respective spaces (22,42) and exit as mixed water from the mixer outlet (34), and, in a closed mixing position, prevents the exit of mixed water from the mixer outlet (34).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Inventor: Mikael Nutsos
  • Patent number: 6006398
    Abstract: A safety shutoff system for steam and combination steam and water cleaners for permitting safe shutoff at the hand held spray gun thereof. The system includes a fluid reservoir connected to a first valve by a first conduit having a first pump for pumping fluid from the reservoir towards the first valve. A by-pass conduit connects the first valve to the fluid reservoir. An outlet conduit is connected to the first valve. The first valve controls fluid flow between the first conduit and the outlet conduit. The first valve blocks fluid flow from the first conduit into the outlet conduit upon detection of a pressure in the outlet conduit greater than a predetermined pressure such that fluid flowing from the first conduit passes into the by-pass conduit. The outlet conduit has a spray gun with a shutoff valve and a fluid heater between the first valve and the shutoff valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Sioux Steam Cleaner Corporation
    Inventors: Arden L. Larson, Glen Lawrenson
  • Patent number: 6003166
    Abstract: A spa has (a) a bath having an upstanding wall; and (b) a pump assembly removably mounted to the wall of the bath. The pump assembly comprises (i) a U-shaped cover having a dry leg, a wet leg, and a mounting groove formed therebetween, the wet leg of the cover having an inlet port and an outlet port extending therethrough; (ii) a pump disposed within the dry leg of the cover; (iii) an inlet conduit extending from the inlet port to the pump; and (iv) an outlet conduit extending from the outlet port to the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Icon Health and Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick J. Hald, Scott R. Watterson, William T. Dalebout, Timothy O. Armstrong, Michael Dolder
  • Patent number: 6000424
    Abstract: Apparatus for expelling air from a liquid storage tank, such as a hot water storage tank includes a bleed line coupled between a water circulating pump discharge conduit and a hot water discharge line emanating from tank 10. The bleed line is connected to the hot water discharge line at a location which is elevated with respect to a location where the bleed line is connected to the pump discharge conduit. The pump is operable to draw hot water from the top part of the tank and discharge it into a cold water fill line extending into the tank to enhance water circulation in the tank. Air and other gas released when water is heated in the top part of the tank are drawn from the top part of the tank and expelled via the bleed line, to prevent accumulation of air and other gas in the tank. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, an elongated tubular member is inserted into the cold water fill line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Lennox Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Delbert S. Christopher, James J. Mullen
  • Patent number: 5941275
    Abstract: A hot water distribution system incorporating a pump positioned close to, and between each set of hot and cold water taps to which periodically move the cooled-down water content of the hot water distribution line through the cold water distribution line back to the hot water tank until the total content of the hot water line has a predetermined temperature. The pump is provided with a valve responsive to pump-generated pressure to prevent backflow when the pump is not in use and the pressure in the cold water distribution line is lower than the pressure in the hot water distribution line, such as when water is drawn through a cold water tap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Inventor: Karsten Andreas Laing
  • Patent number: 5921278
    Abstract: A composite tank for a rinse system comprises a plate, a plurality of general planar fiberglass reinforced plastic walls, and a generally planar bottom wall. The plurality of general planar fiberglass reinforced plastic walls are attached to the plate and extend generally upwardly therefrom. The walls cooperate with the plate to define an interior region of the tank. The generally planar bottom wall is positioned to lie above the plate and is received in the interior region of the tank. The bottom wall is made from fiberglass reinforced plastic and is attached to the reinforced plastic walls to provide a sealed interior region of the tank between the walls and the bottom wall and above the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: George Koch Sons, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory M. Wallace, J. Steve Whitehead, David W. Carl
  • Patent number: 5918625
    Abstract: An integral water circulation apparatus supplies instant hot water at hot water faucets remotely located from the building water heater through a convective circulation flow of hot water from the water heater It is therefore simpler in design, less expensive to install, and more reliable than the more complex prior art systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Inventor: Raymond G. Ziehm
  • Patent number: 5829467
    Abstract: A residential hot water recirculation system recirculates cooled hot water into the base of the hot water heater through its drain valve using an electrically driven pump. The recirculation system incorporates portable self-contained signalling units which use photosensitive, motion sensitive or infrared sensitive detectors to sense changes within their field of sensitivity to signal the pump controller to activate the pump. By being portable and self-contained, the detectors can be placed without regard to home power outlets and without the need for additional wiring. The system provides for setting the cycle time for pump activation and the minimum interval between pump activations as well as a manual override which will reinitiates pump activation without regard to pump or timer status. The system signalling units and controller in one embodiment transmits and differentiates between two radio frequencies to distinguish between normal activation signals and manual override signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Vincent M. Spicher
  • Patent number: 5829475
    Abstract: A zone valve hot water recirculation system in accordance with the present invention generally includes a hot water source, such as an electric or gas water heater, a conduit for enabling circulation of hot water from hot water source to one or more plumbing fixtures and recovery of water to the hot water source, a pump for accelerating delivery of hot water to the fixtures and, importantly, a zone valve for preventing flow of water into the hot water source during standby periods of the hot water source. A controller, which may include an electronic timer, is provided for causing the zone valve to open and close and the pump to start and stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: ACT Distribution, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry K. Acker
  • Patent number: 5794658
    Abstract: This invention relates to a descaling system for use in the manufacture of steel and corresponding method, including a pump recirculation system. The recirculation system is adapted to make high pressure descaling fluid (e.g. water) instantaneously available to the descaling nozzles for spraying, and to maintain a temperature differential between the pump suction and pump discharge less than about 25.degree. F. during both descaling and recirculation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Bethlehem Steel Corporation
    Inventor: Joel L. Saikin
  • Patent number: 5794643
    Abstract: A pressure regulated diverting system (10) for water conservation includes a vacuum flow device (12), a diversion line (14), a regulating valve (16), and a containment device (18). The vacuum flow device (12) is inserted in line with the main hot water supply line (20) with a third opening connected to the diversion line (14) which passes through regulating valve (16) and is connected to containment device (18). When regulating valve (16) is open, the cooled hot water slug contained in the hot water supply line (20) fills containment device (18). Once full, the diversion line (14) and the hot water supply lines (20) are pressure equalized and, with the cold water slug, that is normally wasted, removed, hot water is available at the faucet (58) or shower head (60) essentially immediately. A smaller version for use within a shower, in particular, is available and utilizes a manually operable regulating valve (16) to force the first cold slug of cooled hot water into containment device (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Inventor: John L. Brice
  • Patent number: 5785085
    Abstract: A closed feeding system for liquid fuel includes a flexible tube (1) extending from a reservoir (7) to a strainer housing (8) for differential pressure feeding of fuel, provided with pump assembly (3), in which system there is disposed a second, flexible tube (2) for return of fuel to the reservoir (7), the feed tube upstream and downstream of the pump assembly (3) being provided with non-return valves (4'-5') for flowing toward the strainer housing (8) and the return tube (2) optionally being provided with a non-return valve (6') for flowing toward the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Forsvarets Forskningsinstitutt, Div. for Weapon and Material
    Inventors: Odd Halsnes, Tor Audun Oftedal
  • Patent number: 5732737
    Abstract: A pressure responsive check valve designed to quickly close in response to a drop in pressure below a pre-determined level. When used at the top of a fluid filled tank such as one used for heating oil, the valve prevents tank syphon by stopping fluid flow at the tank in the case of breakage of supply or return lines, The valve is contained in a pre-assembled unit for ease of installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Inventor: David C. Condon
  • Patent number: 5725021
    Abstract: For use with a mud pit connected to a drilling rig, a first pipe and connected pump pulls mud from the pit for use or disposal. The pit is provided with a bottom located drain line with a valve connected to an added pipe, a serially connected pump and outlet pipe going to a backload line for recovery in a tanker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Inventor: James Leslie Dallas
  • Patent number: 5715864
    Abstract: A device for relieving the pressure of pressurized materials, such as sprayable hot melt adhesives includes a storage tank (40), a manifold (44), a source of pressure for pressurizing the pressurized materials, and a dump valve (10) for relieving the pressure of the pressurized materials when the device is deactivated or turned off. The dump valve (10) includes a relief port (22) and a spring and compressed air arrangement for opening and closing the relief port (22). The dump valve (10) can be combined with a pressure relief valve and can be retrofitted to existing manifolds (44). A method of depressurizing a pressurized device for spraying pressurized material is also disclosed and includes the steps of activating a pressure means for pressurizing materials within a manifold, pressurizing the materials via the pressure means, deactivating the pressure means, and relieving the pressure of the materials when the pressurizing means is deactivated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: David F. Andel, David R. Jeter
  • Patent number: 5701924
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting and handling liquid separation in a liquid emulsion disposed in a tank 1 by preventing separated liquid from entering a withdrawal conduit 3 disposed in the lower portion of the tank 1 by a apparatus comprising a pump 9 driven by an electric motor 15 and taking its suction form the lower portion of the tank 1 and discharging adjacent the central portion of the tank 1, a float 5, which sinks in the emulsion and floats on the high density liquid is cooperatively associated with a relay 17 to start the pump motor 15 when accumulated high density liquid raises the float 5 a predetermined amount, a time delay 21 runs the pump 9 a predetermined length of time sufficient to reemulsify the accumulated high density and preventing it from entering the withdrawal conduit 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Gerald N. Coleman
  • Patent number: 5699859
    Abstract: A well water recirculation valve comprising an in-line check valve and a calibrated orifice through the body of the check valve. The orifice communicates through the body of the check valve into an unchecked end thereof. In use in a water well having a submersed pump, the recirculation valve is spliced into a well pipe at a location below the top of a well but above an average static water level in that well. The recirculation valve of the present invention recirculates a portion of the water pumped through the well pipe back into the well for preventing a stagnation of a head portion of that well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Inventor: Blair J. Poirier
  • Patent number: 5680960
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing apparatus includes a fluid reservoir comprising a flexible bag-like enclosure. The fluid reservoir includes a discharge valve connected to a fluid output for dispensing fluid from said fluid reservoir. An electronic controller selectively opens and closes the discharge valve to dispense a predetermined volume of fluid from said fluid reservoir. The fluid reservoir is flexible so that it expands and contracts to maintain the internal pressure of the fluid reservoir constant. In an alternate embodiment, the fluid reservoir has a rigid wall and is provided with an external bladder which expands and contracts to maintain the internal pressure of the fluid reservoir constant. The fluid dispensing apparatus can be configured either as a volumetric filler or as a time pressure filler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1997
    Inventors: Denis E. Keyes, John R. Randall, James V. Curcio
  • Patent number: 5630437
    Abstract: A dishwasher is provided with a flapper valve for directing water from a recirculation pump to spray arms or a drain. The valve is spring biased toward a recirculate position and solenoid operated to a drain position. An inlet of the pump is provided with a downwardly curved suction pipe having a generally horizontal bell mouth. The dishwasher has a sump separated into a pump chamber and a collection chamber. The pump inlet is located in the pump chamber and has a mouth that is located below a level of the bottom of the collection chamber. Wash liquid is pumped through a venturi in the collection chamber to a drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Assignee: White Consolidated Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Dries, James M. Edwards
  • Patent number: 5593596
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for collecting cutting fluid and chips from a number of machine tools and includes a series of sumps each collecting chips and fluid at a particular machine tool, and a central sealed collection tank drawing from all of the sumps by drawpipes inserted in each sump. A single large capacity pump pumps to filtration equipment, with a predetermined vacuum level maintained in the tank by opening and closing an outlet valve between the pump and the filtration equipment. A level switch at each sump causes intermittent opening of an associated valve causing each sump to be placed in communication with the vacuum in the collection tank, and random opening of the valves causes individual sumps to be emptied by the full suction at the collection tank. The drawpipes are equipped with antivortex end shapes to allow rapid evacuation without drawing air into the system. A vacuum pump removes excess air accumulating in the collection tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Inventor: Jack R. Bratten
  • Patent number: 5564462
    Abstract: A temperature controlled water recirculation system includes an adjustment valve for adjusting the quantities of water received from hot and cold water lines are fed to a shower nozzle. A controller, such as a temperature sensor, a timer, fluid flow meter, or the like is used for establishing the point at which a diverting valve diverts water from a recirculating return line to a shower nozzle. The return valve, therefore, determines at point in time recirculation ceases and dispensing of the water commences. In this way, water is conserved by recirculation of mixed water which cannot be used because its temperature is below or above a pre-selected threshold temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Inventor: Paul Storch
  • Patent number: 5554225
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser for use in consistently depositing relatively thick and lumpy materials onto receiving surfaces which employs a supply path to a plurality of pump/valve combinations and a feedback pressure line to assure an adequate pressure at the point of deposit. There are positive displacement pumps which operate continuously through the plurality of valves with an additional feedback path to assure constant flow of the material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Assignee: The Pillsbury Company
    Inventor: Jimmy A. DeMars
  • Patent number: 5507310
    Abstract: The invention provides an improved system of plumbing for transportation conveyances including over-the-road, domestic vehicles, railway cars and yachts. The system includes a compact, unitary water distribution manifold for distributing water from an external supply of water. The manifold defines a system of conduits having inlets and outlets for connecting the conduits alternatively to a pressurized external water supply, or, where the external supply is not pressurized, to a pump, with a valve for draining water from the manifold and connected piping, e.g. for cold weather storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Assignee: Watts Investment Company
    Inventors: David L. Sordello, Carl A. Engstrom
  • Patent number: 5484267
    Abstract: A centrifugal pump system including a pump having a rotating seal disposed therein, the temperature of the seal being substantially maintained at an acceptable level by circulating a temperature stabilizing liquid to and from a chamber arranged immediately adjacent the rotating seal. A cooling or barrier tank is positioned adjacent the pump, the cooling tank for receiving the temperature stabilizing liquid from the chamber, allowing it to cool, and directing it back into the chamber thereby maintaining the temperature of the liquid adjacent the rotating seal at a substantially constant and acceptable level. A blower or fan is positioned adjacent both the pump and the cooling tank so as to simultaneously blow air across both of them in order to maintain the temperatures of the pump motor, the liquid within the cooling tank, and the rotating seal at acceptable levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Assignee: Environamics Corp.
    Inventor: Robert E. Rockwood
  • Patent number: 5480063
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing apparatus includes a fluid chamber and a fill tube which forms a closed loop with the fluid chamber. A pair of level sensors are disposed adjacent to the fill tube. Fluid is directed from the fluid chamber into the fill tube through a fill valve. When the fluid level in the fill tube rises to a first predetermined level, the fill valve is closed and a discharge valve is opened to dispense the contents of the fill tube into a container. When the level of the fluid in the fill tube drops to a second predetermined level, the discharge valve is closed and the cycle is repeated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Inventors: Denis E. Keyes, John R. Randall, Jr., James V. Curcio
  • Patent number: 5476118
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-stagnant piping system and it is an object of this invention to provide a piping system such that the fluid inside the upstream side piping of a valve portion and inside the valve will not become stagnant in a super pure water line and chemical solution, etc., regardless of whether the valve is in a closed or opened state.A diaphragm valve 3 having a by-pass means 3b installed on the upstream side of the valve portion 3a is mounted in the sub-line 2 branched from the main line 1 in the piping system, and a pressure reducing unit 4 having a pressure reducing portion by a throttling portion 4a, and a by-pass 4b communicating with the throttling portion 4a is installed on the downstream side of the branch point with the sub-line 2 in the main line 1, and moreover, both by-pass means 3b and 4b communicate with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Assignee: Asahi Yukizai Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ikuo Yokoyama
  • Patent number: 5466380
    Abstract: A sump system and method for collecting liquid from a number of locations includes a series of sumps each collecting liquid at a particular location, and a central sealed collection tank drawing liquid from all of the sumps by overhead draw pipes. A single large capacity pump pumps liquid back to filtration equipment, with a predetermined vacuum level maintained in the tank by opening and closing an outlet valve between the pump and the filtration equipment. The collection tank may be initially filled from an overhead clean supply header.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Inventor: Jack R. Bratten
  • Patent number: 5445674
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser for use in consistently depositing relatively thick and lumpy materials onto receiving surfaces which employs a supply path to a plurality of pump/valve combinations and a feedback pressure line to assure an adequate pressure at the point of deposit. There are positive displacement pumps which operate continuously through the plurality of valves with an additional feedback path to assure constant flow of the material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: The Pillsbury Company
    Inventor: Jimmy A. DeMars
  • Patent number: 5433587
    Abstract: A paint circulation system for supplying paint to a plurality of distributors utilizing a circulating pump to circulate paint to the distributors and an injection pump operated by a closely controlled electric motor for injecting paint into the circulation network from a paint supply reservoir to maintain a predetermined pressure within the circulation network. A "leakage" passage having a predetermined restriction permits paint to leave the circulation network when the valved paint distributors are closed, and the use of an automatic timing valve within the leakage bypass permits flow rates within the circulation network to be varied. The components permit paint viscosity and volumes to be determined, settling of the paint particles within the circulation network and degradation of the circulating paint is minimized, and circulating motor wear may be determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Assignee: Graco Inc.
    Inventors: Peter J. Bankert, Lawrence A. Gawne
  • Patent number: 5421362
    Abstract: The invention provides an improved system of plumbing for over-the-road, domestic vehicles. The system includes a compact, unitary water distribution manifold for distributing water from an external supply of water. The manifold defines a system of conduits having inlets and outlets for connecting the conduits alternatively to a pressurized external water supply, or, where the external supply is not pressurized, to a pump, with a bypass valve for controlling the flow of water to the pump inlet. The system of plumbing further includes drain valves coupled to a cold water conduit and to a hot water conduit for draining water from the manifold and connected piping, e.g. for cold weather storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: Watts Investment Company
    Inventor: David L. Sordello
  • Patent number: 5351337
    Abstract: An improved self-contained pressurized water system for use in remote areas, vehicles, or whenever conventional sources of potable water are not readily available including at least one pressure detection switch for rendering system inoperative and incorporating a flow path for recirculation and aeration of stored water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1994
    Inventor: Joseph J. Deutsch
  • Patent number: 5309938
    Abstract: Fresh water is distributed in an aircraft from at least one supply tank connected through a conduit to at least one water using device, such as a tap, faucet, or the like. The conduit is constructed as a ring conduit, which is provided with or connected to a water conveying device, such as a pump, suction, or pressurizing device. One or more water using devices are connected to the ring conduit by respective branch lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: Deutsche Aerospace Airbus GmbH
    Inventors: Hubert Ellgoth, Helge Frank, Gerd Grunwald, Georg Mai, Karolin Mau, Ralf Schliwa
  • Patent number: 5306242
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for compounding of parenteral admixture solutions, and recirculation with the admixture solution being formed. The apparatus includes a multiple pump cassette configured for operative association with a pump driver, whereby one or more selected source solutions are delivered through a pump cassette to an associated admixture container. After pumping of each source solution, the present method contemplates that the admixture being formed is recirculated through the pump cassettes thereby diluting any source solution in the cassettes and associated tubing. In this manner, the possible mixture of incompatible source solutions, resulting in formation of precipitate, is desirably avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Assignee: Abbott Laboratories
    Inventors: Thomas P. Joyce, John S. Ziegler
  • Patent number: 5303739
    Abstract: A fresh water supply system for an aircraft has at least one supply tank connected to one or more water taps or faucets through a main line, including a device for conveying the water, for example by a pump, by suction, by pressure, or even by gravity. An auxiliary tank or reservoir is arranged near a tap or faucet, and the auxiliary tank is connected to the main line by a controllable valve. The conveying device is connected with a control, which operates in such a way that the main line is filled with water only during first time durations while it is filled with air during second time durations. A venting valve is connected to the main line to permit the venting of the main line when water is removed from the main line. Air also escapes through the venting valve when the main line is being refilled with water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Assignee: Deutsche Aerospace Airbus GmbH
    Inventors: Hubert Ellgoth, Helge Frank, Gerd Grunwald, Georg Mai, Karolin Mau, Ralf Schliwa
  • Patent number: 5301714
    Abstract: A multi-position valve for dispensing fluid and providing continuous fluid flow through the valve assembly. The multi-position valve assembly including an inlet port, an outlet port, and a return port leading to a fluid chamber. The multi-position valve assembly further includes a closure assembly for selectively directing fluid through the valve assembly. The closure assembly is operatively connected with some type of linear actuator, such as an air cylinder, for selectively moving the closure assembly and placing the multi-valve assembly between a closed position, a partially-open position, and a fully-open position. When in the closed position, the closure assembly directs fluid flow through a return flow path leading to the return port, while blocking the fluid flow to the outlet port. When in the partially-open position, the closure assembly directs fluid flow through both the return flow path and a first outlet flow path leading to the outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1994
    Inventor: Keith E. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5295508
    Abstract: The mixing apparatus, which is constructed like a known mixing apparatus with return grooves (18, 19) in the control piston (2), has return grooves (18, 19) of a length which is equal to the distance between the inlet and return openings (4to 7) to be connected by it, the control piston (2) being able to be moved into an intermediate position (B), in which the return grooves (18, 19) connect the inlet openings (4, 5) to the assigned return openings (6, 7), and into a further advanced clearing position (C), in which the return grooves are no longer connected to the return openings. Due to the short return grooves, the length of which is no longer dependent o the length of the mixing chamber or of the outlet pipe of the mixing chamber, the overall length of the mixing apparatus is shortened. It is then only twice the stroke of the control piston. The neck region of the control piston is shortened, as a result of which the area of adhesion is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1994
    Assignee: Elastogran Polyurethane GmbH
    Inventor: Gerhard Reisinger
  • Patent number: 5289810
    Abstract: An arrangement for supplying fuel from a supply container to an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle, has a supply tank having an interior with a separate chamber, a supply aggregate having a suction side connected with the supply tank and a pressure side connectable with the internal combustion engine, the supply aggregate receiving fuel from the separate chamber of the supply tank, a branching conduit connected with the pressure side of the supply aggregate and having a portion extending near a bottom of the supply tank, an ejector arranged in the portion of the branching conduit and having a pressure pipe opening in the chamber of the supply tank, and a check valve provided in the branching conduit upstream of the ejector as considered in a flow direction of fuel, and opening in the branching conduit after a predetermined limiting pressure has been exceeded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1994
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Otto Bauer, Gerhard Geyer
  • Patent number: 5278455
    Abstract: A control for a spa and swimming pool pump and heater assembly with diverter valves, includes a selectively actuable pump and spa heater actuator or relay having a first latching circuit, and having a separate first unlatching switch or relay contact, a selectively actuable pump and pool heater actuator or relay having a second latching circuit including the first unlatching switch or relay contact, and having a second unlatching switch or relay contact in the first latching circuit. The control also includes a diverter valve actuator in parallel to one of the pump and spa heater actuator or relay and pump and pool heater actuator or relay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: Teledyne Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Hamos
  • Patent number: 5247710
    Abstract: An automatic sensor system for detecting and adjusting a level of contents held within a reservoir is disclosed. The system has a sensor probe having a probe housing with opposing ends, an interior cavity that opens through one housing end, and a constantly open air vent aperture piercing the housing proximate the other housing end, included within the housing are lower and upper level detection contacts that communicate information about the detected level to a circuit that signals for a contents delivery source to send additional contents when needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1993
    Inventors: Jan Carder, Donald Smith, Richard Jones
  • Patent number: 5223156
    Abstract: In a process and a system for removing waste including production residues from fluid media used with machinery, the medium from which waste is to be removed is transported from the respective place of accumulation via piping to a collecting tank. The medium from which waste is to be removed is pumped from the respective place of accumulation up to an elevated tank, from where it is passed on to the collecting tank located at a lower level continuously or intermittently via a closed piping system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1993
    Assignee: Scheibel Versorgungsanlagen GmbH
    Inventor: Werner Maier
  • Patent number: 5203367
    Abstract: An apparatus for supplying a liquid under a constant pressure comprising a supply tank disposed at a higher lever than articles, i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: Shikoku Kakoki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tadao Akai, Hiromichi Nishino
  • Patent number: 5179978
    Abstract: A rotary ink valve assembly with a plurality of rotary ink valves contained in a housing (10), having a stationary outer portion (16) with first and seconds ends (50, 52) connected by a cylindrical body (54) having at least one bypass aperture (42) adjacent the first end (50) and at least one ink output aperture (40) adjacent the second end (52). A substantially tubular inner portion (18) rotates within the cylindrical interior area (56) of the outer portion (16) with at least one bypass aperture (66) in the side wall (64) adjacent a first closed end (60) and at least one ink output aperture (68) in the side wall (64) adjacent a second open end (62). Ink is supplied to at least the open second end (62) for supplying ink to the inner portion (18) while the inner portion (18) is rotated by means (28, 32, 34) between an open position, a closed position and an intermediate position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1993
    Assignee: Rockwell International Corporation
    Inventors: Tammy J. Simms, Frederick J. Whiting
  • Patent number: 5146950
    Abstract: A color changer comprises a manifold assembly including first and second fluid outlet passages for supplying coating material to first and second devices, respectively, a coating material circulation line extending through the manifold assembly, and valves for selectively coupling the coating material circulation line to the fluid outlet passages for separately controlling flow of coating material from the circulation line to the first and second outlet passages. The valves are coupled to the manifold assembly. The valves are arranged in pairs, one valve of each pair disposed across a respective coating material outlet passage directly opposite the other valve of its respective pair. The manifold assembly comprises a plurality of segments which are joined together to form the manifold assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Assignee: Ransburg Corporation
    Inventors: Michael C. Rodgers, D. William Medlock, Matthew D. Byam
  • Patent number: 5137694
    Abstract: A cleaning system and dispenser are disclosed which feature a reservoir for retaining a liquid detergent solution; a chamber for retaining a mass of solid, dissolvable detergent; a measurement device for measuring the concentration of detergent in the liquid detergent solution; and a flow control device for circulating the liquid detergent solution from the reservoir into contact with the solid detergent so as to dissolve a portion of the solid detergent and increase the concentration of detergent in the liquid detergent solution. The circulation of the liquid detergent solution is in response to a signal from the concentration measuring device that the concentration of detergent in the liquid detergent solution has fallen below a predetermined minimum. The dispenser also includes a measurement device for measuring the volume of solution in the reservoir and for adding fresh water to the reservoir when the volume of solution is below a predetermined minimum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Copeland, Henry A. Snyder, Sherwood A. Bergseid, Thomas H. Indieke