With Common Valve Operator Patents (Class 137/595)
  • Patent number: 6508272
    Abstract: Disclosed is a valve device and a method for operating at least two valves actuated by an actuator and arranged for controlling fluid flow in at least two separate fluid lines. The valve device can simultaneously control at least two diaphragm operated valves using a single actuator. The valve device includes a pressure release mechanism constructed to change pressure in a diaphragm chamber of each diaphragm operated valve and thereby open or close the diaphragm operated valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Arichell Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Natan E. Parsons, David Hadley, Robert Shamitz
  • Patent number: 6502600
    Abstract: The invention concerns a hydraulic line connection with a supply connection (2) having a pressure line and a return line, each ending at a connection valve (4,5), and with a safety valve (8) in a line between the pressure line and a consumer (1), said safety valve having a valve element (9), whose one side is acted upon by the pressure at the pressure connection (P) with the purpose of opening. The aim is to safely provide a connection of this kind in a simple way. For this purpose the other side of the valve element (9) is directly connected with the return line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Sauer-Danfoss Holding A/S
    Inventors: Poul Ennemark, Søren Zaremba
  • Patent number: 6490963
    Abstract: The invention concerns a hydraulic line coupling arrangement of a consumer, with a pump line, a tank line and a safety valve in the pump line, the valve element of the safety valve being acted upon in the opening direction by an opening pressure from the pump line and in the closing direction by a closing pressure of a closing pressure connection. In such an arrangement it is desired to prevent overloading of the consumer. For this purpose, a pilot valve is provided for controlling the closing pressure, the position of the pilot valve being controlled by the pressure in the tank line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Sauer-Danfoss (Nordborg) A/S
    Inventors: Poul Ennemark, Siegfried Zenker
  • Patent number: 6477719
    Abstract: A low tank of a flush toilet capable of receiving either of clean water and recycling water, wherein two sets of ball taps are fixed into the low tank, two sets of ball valves are connected directly to the inlet sides of the ball taps, and a lever handle is changed from 0 to 90 degree by a changeover lever capable of alternately switching between the two sets of ball valves, whereby the two sets of ball valve shafts are rotated so that the opening and closing operation can be performed simultaneously in the ball valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: Katsuji Ando
  • Publication number: 20020162590
    Abstract: A valve arrangement for stopping fluid passage through at least one flexible tubing is provided with a camshaft having at least one control cam which is designed as a sink in an otherwise closed circular surface of the camshaft for moving a press member which is retracted into an inactive relative position when radially aligned with the sink and which is protruded into an active relative position by the circular surface of the camshaft for then squeezing the associated portion of the flexible tube which is passed through a housing of the valve arrangement in a direction normal with respect to a longitudinal bore rotatably supporting the camshaft and also normal with respect to a radial bore which is arranged for radially guiding the press member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Applicant: Ferton Holding S.A.
    Inventors: Gustavo Lamas, Lutz Beerstecher
  • Patent number: 6450197
    Abstract: A magnetically actuated valve system for controlling fluid flow through a first conduit and a second conduit. A first sealing structure associated with the first conduit is moveable in response to a magnetic force to an open position and spring biased toward a closed position. The closed position prevents fluid flow through the first conduit. A second sealing structure associated with the second conduit is moveable in response to a magnetic force in a second direction, substantially opposite to the first direction, to an open position and biased toward a closed position. The closed position prevents fluid flow through the second conduit. A magnetic actuator assembly is constructed and arranged to actuate the first and second sealing assemblies substantially simultaneously by moving the first and second sealing structures in the first and second directions, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Vacco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph M. Cardin
  • Publication number: 20020100508
    Abstract: A magnetically actuated valve system for controlling fluid flow through a first conduit and a second conduit. A first sealing structure associated with the first conduit is moveable in response to a magnetic force to an open position and spring biased toward a closed position. The closed position prevents fluid flow through the first conduit. A second sealing structure associated with the second conduit is moveable in response to a magnetic force in a second direction, substantially opposite to the first direction, to an open position and biased toward a closed position. The closed position prevents fluid flow through the second conduit. A magnetic actuator assembly is constructed and arranged to actuate the first and second sealing assemblies substantially simultaneously by moving the first and second sealing structures in the first and second directions, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Applicant: VACCO Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph M. Cardin
  • Patent number: 6370709
    Abstract: A discharge valve is disclosed for use in a vacuum toilet system having a waste receptacle defining an outlet and a sewer line placeable under partial vacuum. The discharge valve comprises a housing defining an inlet and an outlet and a rotatable discharge valve member disposed in the housing for selectively establishing fluid communication between the inlet and the outlet. A periphery of the disk valve member being formed with a series of ear teeth. An actuator is provided having a rotatable spur gear adapted to engage the periphery of the discharge valve member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventors: Jay D. Stradinger, William Bruce Anderson, Mark A. Pondelick, Douglas M. Wallace, Michael B. Hancock, Arthur J. McGowan, Jr., Ian Tinkler
  • Patent number: 6353942
    Abstract: A modular vacuum toilet, and a method of servicing such a toilet, are disclosed. The toilet is used with a vacuum toilet system having a sewer line placeable under partial vacuum pressure and a source of rinse fluid. The modular vacuum toilet comprises a frame and a removable bowl engaging and supported be the frame, the bowl defining an outlet and having a rinse fluid dispenser associated therewith. The modular vacuum toilet also has a valve set module. The valve set module includes a discharge valve having an inlet in fluid communication with the bowl outlet, an outlet in fluid communication with the sewer line, and a movable discharge valve member disposed between the discharge valve inlet and outlet. A rinse fluid valve is also incorporated into the valve set module and has an inlet in fluid communication with the source of rinse fluid, an outlet in fluid communication with the rinse fluid dispenser, and a movable rinse fluid valve member disposed between the rinse fluid valve inlet and outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Evac International OY
    Inventors: Mark A. Pondelick, Jay D. Stradinger, William Bruce Anderson, Arthur J. McGowan, Jr., Douglas M. Wallace, Ian Tinkler, Michael B. Hancock
  • Patent number: 6330891
    Abstract: In a double-damper apparatus 1 including a driving portion (2), two frame portions (3 and 4) arranged on both sides of the driving portion, and two open/close members (5 and 6) which are coupled with the driving portion (2) and perform the operation of opening/closing the openings (31 and 41) formed in the frame portions respectively by the driving force of the driving portion, a steps(s) &bgr; is formed between the flat portions (37b and 47b) of the two frame portions (3 and 4). A labyrinth structure is formed between both flat portions (37b and 47b) to prevent leakage of fluid between both fluid channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Sankyo Seiki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Seiichiro Noritake
  • Patent number: 6283679
    Abstract: A seed cart for an air seeder is provided with pneumatic distribution system having a primary air distribution manifold. The primary air distribution manifold is provided with a top rank of venturis and a bottom rank of venturis for receiving an air stream from a blower which is divided into a top rank air stream and a bottom rank air stream. A selector valve is located above the top rank of venturis immediately below a product meter. The selector valve selectively directs metered product to either the top rank of venturis or the bottom rank of venturis. In a first position the selector valve directs metered product to the top rank of venturis in its second position the selector valve directs metered product to the bottom rank of venturis. Each selector valve is also provided with first and second air valves. In the selector valve's first position, the first air valve is open and directs air tapped from the top rank air stream to the product tank feeding product to the top rank of venturis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: David Walter Gregor, Terry Lee Snipes, Donald Raymond Wisor
  • Patent number: 6263917
    Abstract: A multiple-bore throttle valve wherein the valve shaft is restrained from end play at a point between two of the flow bores. A passageway in the valve body between the flow bores intersects the valve shaft bore non-diametrically. The valve shaft has a circumferential groove at the point of intersection. A pin pressed into both the passageway and the groove axially restrains the shaft at that location. Since thermal expansion or contraction of the shaft in its axial direction can proceed only from the point of restraint, a dual-bore valve in accordance with the invention exhibits length changes in each bore equivalent to that of a single bore valve, which is less than half the shaft length change exhibited in at least one bore of a prior art dual-bore throttle valve. Similarly, a triple-bore valve exhibits expansion comparable to individual prior art single-bore and dual-bore valves, and a quadruple-bore valve exhibits expansion comparable to a prior art dual-bore valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: David M. Evans
  • Patent number: 6240941
    Abstract: A valve is disclosed. The valve includes at least two valve bodies that each have an annular chamber for operably supporting a flow control member. An adjoining member is attached between the valve bodies and houses an adaptor for engaging a portion of each flow control member such that rotation of one flow control member rotates the other flow control member. Each flow control member can engage the adaptor at a plurality of orientations about an actuation axis that extends through the valve. A method for reorienting to interconnected valve bodies relative to each other is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Laars, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven D. Small, Gene L. Pecci
  • Patent number: 6223772
    Abstract: A valve assembly for controlling the flow of refrigerant and coolant through an HVAC system is provided. The valve assembly includes a refrigerant housing defining a refrigerant conduit with a refrigerant inlet and a refrigerant outlet. A refrigerant valve is disposed within the refrigerant conduit for controlling the flow of refrigerant between the refrigerant inlet and the refrigerant outlet. The assembly also includes a coolant housing defining a coolant conduit with a coolant inlet and a coolant outlet. A coolant valve is disposed within the coolant conduit for controlling the flow of coolant between the coolant inlet and the coolant outlet. An actuator assembly is coupled to the refrigerant and the coolant valves for simultaneously actuating the valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry Donald Cummings, Taylor R. Eckstein, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6213690
    Abstract: A primary air distribution manifold for an air seeder's pneumatic distribution system, wherein the primary air distribution manifold is provided with a top rank of venturis and a bottom rank of venturis for receiving an air stream from a blower which is divided into a top rank air stream and a bottom rank air stream. A selector valve is located above the top rank of venturis immediately below a product meter. The selector valve selectively directs metered product to either the top rank of venturis or the bottom rank of venturis. In a first position the selector valve directs metered product to the top rank of venturis in its second position the selector valve directs metered product to the bottom rank of venturis. Each selector valve is also provided with first and second air valves. In the selector valve's first position, the first air valve is open and directs air tapped from the top rank air stream to the product tank feeding product to the top rank of venturis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: David Walter Gregor, Terry Lee Snipes, Donald Raymond Wisor
  • Patent number: 6206028
    Abstract: A universal multi-path control valve system includes at least two sets of outlets controlled by a single on/off operator. A compact design allows the control valve system to save space in the compact areas where plumbing fixtures are typically installed. The control valve system is constructed entirely of molded plastic components. Fittings supplied with the control valve system allow for customized installation according to the needs of the installer. Appliances may be easily added or removed using threaded connections on the valve and fittings supplied as part of the control valve system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: The Keeney Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: R. Stuart Holden, Richard E. Marzec, Frank Pieters
  • Patent number: 6202698
    Abstract: This disclosure sets forth a diaphragm valve operative with N ports deployed in an upper head. The ports all connect to a diaphragm having a bead defining a flow path around the diaphragm connecting all the ports. In the cylinder below the upper head, there are upper and lower pistons which are forced apart to define a fluid receiving chamber. The fluid receiving chamber is enlarged on the introduction of fluid above a certain pressure thereby raising half of the piston rods bearing against the diaphragm and reduction of fluid pressure in the chamber lowers those push rods and raises an alternate set of push rods to accomplish diaphragm switching by deformation of the resilient material defining the diaphragm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Valco Instruments Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank A. Stearns
  • Patent number: 6192927
    Abstract: The valve is designed for the ejection of a plurality of different gases from within the valve, simultaneously, by having a plurality of plenum chambers within the chamber of the valve, and a poppet therein, that are charged with gases under pressure. The gases are sealed within the respective plenum chambers by the action of a spring that urges the poppet against a gas exit port associated with each plenum chamber. Ejection of the gases is accomplished by the application of an electrical current into a coil surrounding the poppet which produces an electromagnetic field that causes a non-ferrous hammer to be driven away from the coil and strike the poppet. Upon being struck by the hammer, the poppet is driven off of the plurality of gas exit ports thereby allowing the gases to be ejected, simultaneously, from the respective plenum chambers into a region of lower pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Gus G. Peterson, Amnon Fisher
  • Patent number: 6189323
    Abstract: In an air conditioner having a plurality of valves for adjusting the flow of refrigerant circulating in an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, and a controller for controlling the opening degree of each of the valves while successively switching the control target value between these valves and a valve control method for the air conditioner, the controller judges whether the opening degree of a currently-operated (controlled) valve which is currently being subjected to the opening degree control operation is coincident with a target value. If the opening degree of the valve reaches the target value even within a predetermined one-operation time set for the valve, the control target valve is immediately switched to a next valve. Further, if the opening degree of the valve does not reach the target valve even after the predetermined one-operation time, the one-operation time is extended to continue the opening degree control operation on the currently-operated valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Nakamura, Ryoji Nakanishi, Yuji Kamoda
  • Patent number: 6167683
    Abstract: A packaging device for continuously forming and filling a package having a plurality of separate sealed cavities comprises a plastic film winding barrel, a vacuum cavity forming device, a filling means, an aluminum foil winding barrel, a pressing sealing means, and a cutting machine. The vacuum cavity forming device causes the plastic film to be formed with a plurality of cavities. The filling means pumps liquid material into each of the cavities holes. Aluminum foil is adhered to the strip plastic casing by a pressing sealing means. Finally, the cutting machine serves to the cut the strip casing to complete a packaging process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: Kyorin Group (China) Ltd.
    Inventor: Chi Kin Wong
  • Patent number: 6135414
    Abstract: Apparatus for coordinating the positions of valves in a pair of air flow passages along a jet engine nacelle to control two rotary valves from a single linear actuator. Each of the valves is of a ball type which is rotatable within a housing to achieve variable flow control in accordance with the particular shape of the opening through the rotatable valve member which varies with valve member rotation. The valve member bore shape may differ for the two valves, as well as the angle of the linkage between the linear actuator and each valve, to achieve different flow control relationships for the two valves from the single actuator armature. Each valve incorporates a pressure balancing member at the inlet seal of the valve which results in a reduction of the force of the seal element against the rotatable valve member when the valve is in the closed position, thereby reducing the torque required to rotate the valve out of the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Whittaker Corporation
    Inventor: Rafic Mohtar
  • Patent number: 6070607
    Abstract: A control system for producing first and second fluid sources whose pressure difference is regulated to a desired value in response to four fluid supplies of independently variable pressures. The pressure of the first fluid source is not allowed to decrease substantially below the third fluid supply pressure or rise substantially higher than the desired value above the pressure of the third fluid supply. The pressure of the second fluid source is not allowed to rise substantially above the fourth fluid supply pressure or decrease substantially lower than the desired value below the pressure of the third fluid supply. The system may consist of a diaphragm-type pressure regulator which is responsive to the difference in pressure of the two fluid sources. One side of the regulator is selectively valved to connect to one of two pressure supplies while the other side is selectively valved to connect to one of two additional pressure supplies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Inventor: Gary L. Casey
  • Patent number: 6058726
    Abstract: A damper comprises two cold air inlets through which a fluid flows, two gate plates which open and close the two cold air inlets and a drive unit for driving the two gate plates. The drive unit is installed between the two cold air inlets to open and close the gate plates. The drive unit operates to control the fluid flow. In a particular form, the damper is installed in a refrigerator for opening and closing two cold air inlets of the refrigerator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Sankyo Seiki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Seiichiro Noritake
  • Patent number: 6053201
    Abstract: A valve device comprises a valve having an outlet passage (6, 7), a stationary surface, and a rotatable support member (15, 16) at a distance from the stationary surface, and a membrane (19) provided between the stationary surface and the support member. The membrane (19) is attached to the stationary surface and the support member in such a manner that when the rotatable support member is in a first rotating position in relation to the stationary surface the membrane covers an orifice (6, 7) associated with the outlet passage and located at the stationary surface and when the support member is in a second rotating position said opening is uncovered. The support member (15, 16) is provided rotatably about an axis (12) which in a plane, in which the axis (12) extend, forms an angle together with the generatrix of the stationary surface (10, 11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Alfa Laval Agri AB
    Inventor: Hans Olofsson
  • Patent number: 6026838
    Abstract: An apparatus detects an opening in a fluid flow passageway such as occurs when a resistance welding cap which is cooled by the fluid flow becomes accidently detached from a welding machine. Upon detection of an opening, an air-actuated pinch lever is activated to quickly pinch shut flexible fluid inlet and outlet hoses and thereby shut off the fluid flow. Inlet and outlet flow rate sensors provide periodic outputs to a digital computer which determines directions of inlet and outlet flow acceleration. If either the inlet or outlet acceleration changes direction, a baseline inlet or outlet flow rate is set equal to the corresponding current flow rate value to prevent erroneous opening detection due to normal flow fluctuations. If the inlet and outlet accelerations are in the same direction, the baseline values are similarly updated. If the inlet acceleration is positive and the outlet acceleration is negative, it indicates a probable opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Proteus Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark R. Nicewonger, Tommy K. Yiu
  • Patent number: 6012342
    Abstract: A plunger assembly for obstructing the flow of fluid through a flexible tube is provided. The assembly comprises a plunger sleeve member having a first open end and a compression mechanism for selectively contacting and compressing the flexible tube. The compression mechanism has a contacting portion for contacting the flexible tube and an extending portion with the extending portion being slidably receivable within the plunger sleeve member through the first open end of the plunger sleeve member. A spring mechanism is mounted about the extending portion of the compression mechanism and between the contacting portion of the compression mechanism and the first open end of the plunger sleeve member for providing selective movement to the compression mechanism relative to the plunger sleeve member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Cobe Cardiovascular Operating Co., Inc.
    Inventors: David D. Blight, Frank L. Caruso, Stephan L. Williams
  • Patent number: 5954092
    Abstract: There is provided a high frequency pulse generator having inlet ports for receiving a fluid mass flow rate and output ports that produce a pulse flow rate therefrom by being opened and closed by a chopper wheel. The duty cycle of the generator is controlled by the ratio of the aperture sections of the chopper wheel to the closure sections of the wheel. The housing of the pulse generator may be divided into separate sealed chambers for receiving independent fluid mass flow rates in each chamber and providing independent variable phased pulsed output flow rates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: McDonnel Douglas Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph C. Kroutil, Miklos Sajben
  • Patent number: 5950667
    Abstract: An apparatus detects an opening in a fluid flow passageway such as occurs when a resistance welding cap which is cooled by the fluid flow becomes accidently detached from a welding machine. Upon detection of an opening, an air-actuated pinch lever is activated to quickly pinch shut flexible fluid inlet and outlet hoses and thereby shut off the fluid flow. Inlet and outlet flow rate sensors provide periodic outputs to a digital computer which determines directions of inlet and outlet flow acceleration. If either the inlet or outlet acceleration changes direction, a baseline inlet or outlet flow rate is set equal to the corresponding current flow rate value to prevent erroneous opening detection due to normal flow fluctuations. If the inlet and outlet accelerations are in the same direction, the baseline values are similarly updated. If the inlet acceleration is positive and the outlet acceleration is negative, it indicates a probable opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Proteus Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark R. Nicewonger, John W. Clove
  • Patent number: 5938098
    Abstract: A positive pressure operated servo apparatus for lateral alignment of a continuous web of paper, plastic, textiles and other materials which are being processed at windup, unwind, printing, coating, folding and slitting stations, or other intermediate points in the machine process. The apparatus includes an air source communicating with a sensor and servo valve which regulates a double-acting air actuator having an output member to move a web positioning assembly. The servo valve is regulated by a diaphragm that is controlled by a pneumatic correction signal force from a low pressure sensor circuit and is arranged under the influence of such signal force to selectively position a valve element relative to two orifice openings to provide differential air pressure proportional to error to operate the actuator to produce actuator movement proportional to the error to correct and maintain the position of the web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Robert L. Fife
  • Patent number: 5901745
    Abstract: A dispensing valve arrangement is provided which includes a series of pinch valves and their respective deformable hoses. A pair of actuating mechanisms is provided so that some of the pinch valves first move to full flow position before other pinch valves move towards opened position to provide sequential operation and an additional feed which confluently merges and mixes with the feed from the first valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: The Hoover Company
    Inventor: Dean H. Buchtel
  • Patent number: 5845677
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dual throttle valve of a car which includes an intake pipe divided into a primary intake path for low speed and a secondary intake path for middle or high speed, a primary throttle valve, a secondary throttle valve, a pinion, a fan-shaped gear, and a semi-circular member, wherein at a low speed, only the primary throttle valve rotates to open the primary intake path having a smaller diameter than the secondary intake path and at a middle or high speed, the primary and secondary throttle valves rotate sequentially to open the primary and secondary intake paths gradually even when the sudden accelerating for starting or outrunning occurs, so that waste of fuel at a low speed due to the sudden oversupply of gas and the occurrence of harmful exhaust gas due to the incomplete combustion at a middle or high speed can be prevented by controlling the amount of the intake gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Yong-Woo Kim
  • Patent number: 5829337
    Abstract: A method of coupling a fluid-powered work implement to a boom assembly of a work machine is disclosed. The boom assembly has a first male fluid coupling attached thereto. The boom assembly also has a plunger attached thereto. The work implement has a first female fluid coupling attached thereto. The first female fluid coupling has a first locking sleeve slidably secured thereto. The method includes the step of moving the boom assembly toward the work implement so as to align the first male fluid coupling with the first female fluid coupling. The method also includes the step of actuating the plunger so as to cause the first locking sleeve to be moved from a first locked position to a first unlocked position. Moreover, the method includes the step of further moving the boom assembly so as to advance the first male fluid coupling into the first female fluid coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: William Mark Barden
  • Patent number: 5816621
    Abstract: A pair of quick disconnect female fittings each have a first end adapted to be connected to a first pipe, and a second end adapted to engage a quick disconnect male fitting attached to a second pipe. Each of the quick disconnect female fittings includes a sleeve adapted to cause the quick disconnect male fitting to disconnect from the quick disconnect female fitting when the sleeve is urged toward the first end. A pair of elongated members are disposed generally parallel to the quick disconnect female fittings. A plate is configured to slide along the elongated members. The plate is configured such that when urged toward the first ends of the quick disconnect female fittings along the elongated members, the plate will urge the sleeves toward the first ends. A first spring is disposed on each of the elongated members and is configured to urge the plate toward the first ends of the quick disconnect female fittings. Each of the elongated members includes a recess therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Terry J. Frost
  • Patent number: 5653255
    Abstract: A sewage treatment system includes a pair of substantially identical unitary fluid treatment modules, each module having a central sedimentation tank surrounded by a peripheral wetland. The sedimentation tanks are coupled through a dosing device to an input source of sewage and, as an outlet, to a leaching field. The dosing device includes a switching mechanism isolated from the fluids, which mechanism provides in one cycle for one treatment module to be filled with the incoming sewage while maintaining its outlet closed. When the liquid level in the sedimentation tank in the first treatment module reaches a predetermined level the dosing device switches the sewage input to the other treatment module, while opening the outlet from the first treatment module to the leaching field. The dosing device switching mechanism employs pinch valves arranged so that when the inlet on one treatment module is closed, the inlet on the other treatment module is substantially simultaneously opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Assignee: Stormtreat Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Winfried Platz
  • Patent number: 5638854
    Abstract: A fuel control device and method of making the same are provided, the fuel control device comprising a housing having an inlet separated from an outlet by a valve seat and having a movable valve member for opening and closing the valve seat, an electrical coil, a movable armature being moved to a first position thereof when the coil is energized and being moved to a second position thereof when the coil is deenergized, and a tension spring operatively interconnecting the valve member to the armature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventors: Samuel T. Kelly, Robert G. Dewey, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5632304
    Abstract: An exhaust butterfly in an exhaust conduit of an internal combustion engine is supported by way of bearing journals by positive plug-in connections. To simplify installation, the bearing journals and the bearing sleeves are designed in such a way that, to install the exhaust butterfly, the bearing journals are each pressed completely into the respective bearing sleeves counter to the force of a spring. In the case of a multiflow exhaust line, between adjacent exhaust lines cylindrical transverse passages are provided in each of which a driver is rotatably mounted. At one end, the driver has a recess which is designed as a bearing sleeve and into which the bearing journal of the first exhaust butterfly is inserted to produce a driving connection. The other end of the driver is designed as a bearing journal which is likewise inserted into a recess in the second exhaust butterfly to produce a driving connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Assignee: Mercedes-Benz AG
    Inventors: Karl H. Kempka, Dietmar Froese, Georg Reuther, Christian Kroeger, Harald Bressler
  • Patent number: 5601115
    Abstract: A multiport, diaphragm-sealed valve suitable for use in sampling systems. Using a rotational movement, which can be electrically controlled, the valve operates without leakage or intermingling of transfer fluids to provide a simultaneous seal of all fluid pathways during the switching of flowpaths. multiport, diaphragm-sealed valve suitable for use in sampling systems. Using a rotational movement, which can be electrically controlled, the valve operates without leakage or intermingling of transfer fluids to provide a simultaneous seal of all fluid pathways during the switching of flow paths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Assignee: Vantege Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Arthur B. Broerman
  • Patent number: 5584320
    Abstract: An apparatus for managing and controlling fluid flow through a plurality of fluid conduits includes a chassis, a plurality of conduit occluders mounted in the chassis, each occluder for association with at least one of the plurality of fluid conduits and each being selectively actuatable between an open position permitting fluid flow through a respective fluid conduit and a closed position obstructing conduit fluid flow. A single actuator is mounted in the chassis, the actuator for adjusting the plurality of occluders between the open and closed positions. A roller cage is also mounted in the chassis for mechanically interconnecting the actuator to the plurality of conduit occluders so that the single actuator is mechanically capable of maintaining one of the plurality occluders in the closed position while maintaining another of the plurality of occluders in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: COBE Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: David Skinkle, Timothy Igoe, Lawrence Darnell
  • Patent number: 5562123
    Abstract: An overfill prevention valve is provided in the fill line of a tank. The valve is arranged such that the valve is held at a closed position unless an overflow for the tank is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Assignee: Lucas Industries Public Limited Company
    Inventor: Rodney S. Howard
  • Patent number: 5535718
    Abstract: A throttle linkage system for synchronizing the movement between a plurality of throttle valves journaled in throttle bodies affixed to a common member that includes a link that has the same coefficient of thermal expansion as the member to which the throttle bodies are connected so as to avoid synchronization problems due to different thermal expansions. In addition, the linkage system is such that it accommodates manufacturing variations from the more remotely positioned throttle valves by providing a structure for permitting relative movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Assignee: Sanshin Kogyo Kabushuki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiroshi Nakai, Akihiko Hoshiba, Sadato Yoshida, Yasuhiko Shibata
  • Patent number: 5531589
    Abstract: A fuel control system, a control device therefor and methods of making and operating the same are provided, the fuel control system comprising a source of fuel a burner unit, an electrically operated valve unit adapted to be opened to interconnect the source of fuel to the burner unit when the valve unit is energized, the valve unit having a coil, an electrical power source having a value sufficient for opening the valve unit when operatively interconnected to the coil to energize the coil, a control device for operatively interconnecting the power source to the coil when the control device determines that fuel should be directed to the burner unit, the control device being so constructed and arranged that the control device is adapted to operatively interconnect the power source to the coil without the use of relay contacts between the power source and the coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventor: Kurt T. Williams
  • Patent number: 5464041
    Abstract: A multiple-valve system is transiently electromagnetically actuated by a single electrical winding, for concurrent change of state for each of the multiple valves, and a permanently magnetized portion of involved magnetic circuitry serves to latch both valves in the operative state into which they have been actuated. The preferred embodiment is based on valve-body structure which is a unitary consolidation of plural slabs of magnetic material in alternation with slabs of non-magnetic material. An electromagnetic actuator includes a U-shaped core having pole faces secured to the uppermost slab, in confronting relation with valve members of magnetic material. A first polarized magnetic-latch circuit exists via the U-shaped core, together with the valve members and a magnetized body slab when in valve-open condition. A second polarized magnetic-latch circuit exists via the magnetized slab, the valve members and another magnetic slab, when the system is in valve-closed condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1995
    Assignee: Marotta Scientific Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert H. Reinicke
  • Patent number: 5464042
    Abstract: A coupling for joining together opposing ends of a pressurized refrigerant flow line utilizes a quick connect feature and provides a metal-to-metal seal when connected. When disengaged, opposing ends of the fluid flow line are closed by valves, each of which includes a structure containing an axial passageway and an axially extending valve positioned therein. The valves are yieldingly urged to a closed position when disconnected. The first structure and valve are mounted in a housing having a quick connect feature for retaining the second structure and valve. When connected together, the first structure and valve is moved axially relative to the second structure and valve, while the second structure is maintained in an axially fixed position in the housing. The axially extending first valve engages the axially extending second valve moving it relative to its structure from a closed to an open position while at the same time moving relative to a cooperating sleeve from a closed to an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1995
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventor: Gregory A. Haunhorst
  • Patent number: 5450871
    Abstract: The invention contemplates a method of making a valve body for a magnetically actuated twin-valve system, wherein the valve body comprises a body block of three relatively thick slabs vertically bonded to each other and to the consolidated height of their combined thicknesses, the first and lower most slab being of non-magnetic material, the second and intermediate slab being of magnetic material, and the third and uppermost slab being of non-magnetic material; the method comprises the steps of (a) inertia-welding said slabs to each other; and (b) machining first and second spaced valve-member guide bores through said second and third slabs and through at least a portion of said first slab, with a valve-seat opening at the otherwise closed lower end of each bore of said first slab and with independent lateral-access inlet-port communication with the respective bores in said first slab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Assignee: Marotta Scientific Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert H. Reinicke
  • Patent number: 5437304
    Abstract: A device is provided that permits admission of air or water to one or more molds. It includes at least two three-way valves that move together between a position admitting and exhausting air, a position admitting and exhausting water, and a position blocking all ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Inventor: Jean-Louis Delcroix
  • Patent number: 5427141
    Abstract: In a pressure fluid control valve device, the fluid exhausted from an internal combustion engine flows through a pair of paths selectively or simultaneously. Each of the paths is opened and closed by a butterfly valve fixed to a valve shaft. A coupling for connecting the valve shafts across the paths comprises a slitting recess and a projection provided at the opposing ends of the valve shafts respectively. The direction of the surface of the recess and the projection is set to within 30 degrees with respect to the direction of the surface of the valve disc fixed to the valve shaft having the recess. Thus, the corner of the recess is not engaged with the bearing surface which is loaded, thereby making axial length for connecting the valve shafts to zero to manufacture the light and compact device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: Fuji Oozx Inc.
    Inventor: Kizuku Ohtsubo
  • Patent number: 5423349
    Abstract: A three-way diverter valve comprising a rotatable valve member to which are mounted a number of sealing faces, each face being adapted to seal against one of the inlet or outlet of one of the paths the member being movable between a first position in which both the inlet and outlet of a first path are sealed, and both the inlet and outlet of the second path are open for fluid to flow therethrough, and a second position in which both the inlet and outlet of the first path are open for fluid to flow therethrough and both the inlet and outlet of the second path are sealed, movement of the member effecting sealing or opening of the inlet and outlet of each flow path substantially simultaneously, both paths being at least partially open for fluid to flow therethrough when the member is between the first and second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Assignee: Plenty Limited
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Wicks, Brian N. Goodall
  • Patent number: 5404908
    Abstract: A magnetically linked twin-valve assembly is electromagnetically actuated in response to excitation of a single solenoid winding. Valve-body structure features relatively thick non-magnetic and magnetic slabs which are bonded into a consolidated body block, in laminated alternation, prior to machining the same for dual-valve purposes. Two spaced guide bores through the body block accommodate movement of separate valve members of magnetic material; the upper end of each of these valve members is upwardly exposed in confronting relation with one to the exclusion of the other pole face of the U-shaped core of an electromagnet, whereby a single magnetic circuit, established by the U-shaped core and the valve members, relies upon the middle slab of magnetic material to complete the circuit by magnetically linking both valve members. Inlet and outlet flows of pressure fluid pass through separate chambers formed primarily in the lowermost slab on the respective guide-bore alignments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1995
    Assignee: Marotta Scientific Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert H. Reinicke
  • Patent number: 5351635
    Abstract: A seeding system includes a frame mounted on ground wheels for moving across the ground together with a plurality of individually mounted seeding elements carried on parallelogram linkages from the frame. A seeding element includes a walking beam arrangement having a single front wheel and a pair of rear wheels straddling the seeding sweep positioned between the front and rear wheels. The rear wheels act as packer wheels for two rows of seeds. The walking beam system lifts a main support frame of the seeding element against the bias from a pressurized controlled hydraulic cylinder. The seeding sweep is mounted upon a trip shank. The seeds are supplied through a tube which splits at the sweep to deposit the seeds into the cavity within the sweep on either side of the center line of the sweep. A fertilizer banding knife projects downwardly and rearwardly from the lower end of the shank to a position rearwardly of the sweep.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Inventor: Leslie Hulicsko
  • Patent number: H1962
    Abstract: The valve is designed for the ejection of a plurality of different gases from within the valve, simultaneously, by having a plurality of plenum chambers within the chamber of the valve, and a poppet therein, that are charged with gases under pressure. The gases are sealed within the respective plenum chambers by the action of a spring that urges the poppet against a gas exit port associated with each plenum chamber. Ejection of the gases is accomplished by the application of an electrical current into a coil surrounding the poppet which produces an electromagnetic field that causes a non-ferrous hammer to be driven away from the coil and strike the poppet. Upon being struck by the hammer, the poppet is driven off of the plurality of gas exit ports thereby allowing the gases to be ejected, simultaneously, from the respective plenum chambers into a region of lower pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Gus G. Peterson, Amnon Fisher