Electrical Actuator Patents (Class 137/601.14)
  • Patent number: 10723610
    Abstract: Examples disclosed herein relate to conduits, devices, systems and methods, which may include a hollow element including an inner surface and an outer surface which allows for a passage of one or more of one or more fluid elements and one or more gaseous elements, a constraining element with one or more openings and one or more non-open elements, one or more blocking elements configured to stop the passage of the at least one of the one or more fluid elements and the one or more gaseous elements when the one or more blocking elements are in a first position relative to the one or more openings, and a movement device configured to move the one or more blocking elements to a second position relative to the one or more openings which allows for the passage of the one or more fluid elements and the one gaseous elements through the one or more openings in the constraining element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: GATE CFV SOLUTIONS, INC.
    Inventors: John Newton, Peter Brooke, Dustin Hartsfield, Michael Cheney, Gillian Callaghan, Scott Ross
  • Patent number: 10465820
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a self-aerating valve (1) comprising a valve body (2) with an aperture (3), and a valve flap (4) swivel-mounted to the valve body (2). The valve flap (4) is particularly configured to swivel between a closing position for closing the aperture (3), and an opening position for opening the aperture (3). Further, the self-aerating valve (1) comprises an air-supply port (5) connectable to an air-supply (12). The valve flap (4) is designed to release air supplied to the air-supply port (5) into the aperture (3) of the valve body (2) in the closing position. Preferably, the valve flap (4) is designed to release the air through its whole surface area (6), wherein the surface area (6) comprise a porous membrane (7) fluidly connected to the air-supply port (5). The self-aerating valve 1 may be used in an aerating system (11) of the present invention, which includes also an air-supply (12) fluidly connected to the air-supply port (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: Societe des Produits Nestle S.A.
    Inventors: Theodore Tchakam-Tchasso, Albert Kurnia
  • Patent number: 9914547
    Abstract: An aircraft comprising at least two engines and an electronic management arrangement comprising a control computer for each engine, each computer being configured for monitoring the operation of its associated engine and for activating an engine protection mode when the engine operation exceeds predetermined operational limits. The electronic management arrangement furthermore comprises an engine interface device to which the control computers are connected, the device prohibiting the activation of a protection mode by a control computer when a protection mode is activated by another control computer. A monitoring device is connected to the control computers and receives an information signal from each control computer to indicate if a protection mode is activated and transmits, in the case where a protection mode is activated on at least two engines, a control signal to the control computer having last activated a protection mode to cancel the activation of the protection mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignees: Airbus Operations (SAS), Airbus SAS
    Inventors: Patrick Zaccaria, Emmanuele Costanzo, Laurent Bouin
  • Patent number: 9494253
    Abstract: A flow control valve (1) for a refrigeration system is disclosed. The valve (1) comprises a valve port (14) having a substantially cylindrical inner circumference arranged to receive a protruding portion of a valve member (5). The valve member (5) comprises a protruding portion having a substantially cylindrical outer circumference corresponding to the inner circumference of the valve port (14), said protruding portion also having at least one fluted part (16), said at least one fluted part (16) defining fluid passage along the at least one fluted part (16) when the valve member (5) is in the open position. The valve member (5) is provided with at least one first fluid passage (6) extending through the valve member (5) between a second valve chamber (15) and a pressure balancing chamber (8), and at least one second fluid passage (7) establishing a fluid connection between a first valve chamber (12) and the first fluid passage (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Assignee: DANFOSS A/S
    Inventors: Bjarke Skovgard Dam, Hans Kurt Petersen
  • Publication number: 20150136235
    Abstract: In various embodiments, an electronic flow selector of a fluid flow control system may be used to select a flow rate of a fluid. When the system is in an electronic mode, an encoder may electronically encode the fluid flow selection. A controller may receive the electronically encoded flow selection and transmit a corresponding control signal to an electronic valve to allow the fluid to flow at the selected flow rate. When the system is in a manual mode, backup manual flow selectors may be used to directly control the flow rate of a fluid. When the system is in a manual mode, the mechanical backup flow selectors may be in a deployed position. When the system is in an electronic mode, the mechanical backup flow selectors may be in a retracted position. Particular applications to gases and anesthesia delivery are disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Peter B. Schon, Richard G. Cipolli, Geoffrey C. Jawidzik, Luo Jiancheng, Li An, Hu Min
  • Patent number: 9027590
    Abstract: A ventilation arrangement for the head space of the fuel tank of a vehicle comprises a switchable main valve intended for adjusting an arbitrary pressure in the head space of the tank. By way of the opening position of the main valve, a connection between a connection (5) intended for connection to the head space and a connection (6) intended for connection to the surrounding atmosphere is established, wherein the main valve is assigned a pilot valve, which opens during a first path element of a switching movement, wherein the main valve only opens following this first path element. Because of the small cross section of the pilot valve and the pressure relief that materialized through its opening, the switching power can be reduced and a smaller size drive can be employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: A. Kayser Automotive Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Torsten Gerlich, Gerhard Müller-Riederer
  • Patent number: 9022069
    Abstract: A pressure balanced solenoid operated valve includes a solenoid portion having a coil. A valve member portion is connected to the solenoid portion. The valve member portion has a body including: first and second valve seats; a first cavity positioned between the first valve seat and a valve outlet port. A valve member slidably disposed in the body has a resilient valve element positioned between the first and second valve seats, the resilient valve element when in direct contact with the first valve seat defining a valve closed position. A bleed port created in the body between the first valve seat and the valve outlet port and opening into the first cavity provides a flow path for a pressurized fluid present at the second valve seat in the valve closed position to continuously flow out through the valve outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: MAC Valves, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Neff, Eric P. Janssen
  • Patent number: 9010360
    Abstract: A flow valve assembly includes a valve operable between an open position and a closed position and a controller operatively coupled to the valve to operate the valve between the open position and the closed position. A mechanically or electrically operated assembly is provided to determine an amount of fluid flow through the valve when the valve is in the open position. A mechanically or electrically operated mechanism moves the valve from the open position to the closed position when the amount of fluid flow exceeds a predetermined value. A method of operating the valve is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Drexel University
    Inventors: John Older, Bakhtier Farouk, La'Shell Jones, Jared Kern, Matthew Scholl
  • Patent number: 8997784
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a flow selector of a fluid flow control system may be used to select a flow rate of a fluid. When the system is in an electronic mode, an encoder may electronically encode the fluid flow selection. A controller may receive the electronically encoded flow selection and transmit a corresponding control signal to an electronic valve to allow the fluid to flow at the selected flow rate. An engagement device, such as a clutch, may disengage the flow selector from a mechanical valve when the fluid flow control system enters a manual mode. When the system is in a manual mode, the engagement device may engage the flow selector with the mechanical valve, allowing the flow selector to directly control the flow rate of the fluid through the mechanical valve. Applications to gases and anesthesia delivery are disclosed herein. Various alternative components and embodiments are described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Richard G. Cipolli, David Gibson
  • Publication number: 20150075655
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of Hydraulic Engineering and, particularly, to a fluids economizer system, useful for saving water during distribution in industrial and residential facilities. The system is based on the utilization of devices for the cutoff of fluid flow and manual regulation of fluid flow, which are placed in an arrangement that allows four alternative and programmable states of pressure and rate of the fluid flow to be achieved for efficient supply in the facilities where the system is placed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventors: Jose Luis Ricardo Otarola Olguin, Juan Manuel Lopez Delgado
  • Patent number: 8950381
    Abstract: A fuel supply unit (1) is provided e.g. a carburetor or a low pressure injection system of an internal combustion engine. The fuel supply unit (1) includes a main air passage (3), which has a throttle valve (8, 9) mounted therein and the throttle valve (8, 9) includes a throttle shaft (8) extending between two to one another opposite located shaft sides (6, 7). A control module (2) for the fuel supply (2) is mounted to one (7) of the shaft sides (6, 7), which control module (2) includes throttle position detecting means (30; 300) for monitoring the position of the throttle valve (8, 9), and fuel valve means (60) for controlling the fuel supply to the main air passage (3). Also, an ignition system is provided which is able to control the ignition timing with respect to status of the at least one of the means (30; 300, 40, 60, 100) in the control module (2) in order to at least control the idle speed of the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Husqvarna AB
    Inventors: Mikael Larsson, Bo Carlsson, Björn Landén, Mats Lavenius
  • Publication number: 20150014093
    Abstract: A hydraulic control valve, a dual-cylinder extension system and an aerial work engineering machine. The control valve comprises a flow distributing and collecting valve, and control valve body is provided with a first oil opening, a second oil opening and a third oil opening. A first oil opening, a second oil opening and a third oil opening of said flow distributing and collecting valve are respectively communicated with the first oil opening, the second oil opening and the third oil opening of the valve body. The control valve has two working states, wherein, in the first working state, the oil path between the second oil opening and the third oil opening of the valve body is blocked; and in the second working state, the oil path between the second oil opening and the third oil opening of the valve body is opened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: Xuzhou Heavy Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xianxin Shi, Xiaodong Xu, Demei Kong, Liangwei Lu
  • Patent number: 8887746
    Abstract: In various embodiments, an electronic flow selector of a fluid flow control system may be used to select a flow rate of a fluid. When the system is in an electronic mode, an encoder may electronically encode the fluid flow selection. A controller may receive the electronically encoded flow selection and transmit a corresponding control signal to an electronic valve to allow the fluid to flow at the selected flow rate. When the system is in a manual mode, backup manual flow selectors may be used to directly control the flow rate of a fluid. When the system is in a manual mode, the mechanical backup flow selectors may be in a deployed position. When the system is in an electronic mode, the mechanical backup flow selectors may be in a retracted position. Particular applications to gases and anesthesia delivery are disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Mindray DS USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter B. Schon, Richard G. Cipolli, Geoffrey C. Jawidzik, Luo Jiancheng, Li An, Hu Min
  • Patent number: 8863774
    Abstract: An automatic water flow controller for a faucet includes an outlet member, a manual valve device, one or more inlet pipes supplying water to the manual valve device, a coupling tube coupled between the outlet member and the manual valve device, a solenoid valve attached to the coupling tube for controlling the water to selectively flow through the coupling tube, and an infrared ray detector attached to the outlet member for detecting an approaching of a user within a detection zone of the infrared ray detector, the infrared ray detector is electrically connected to the solenoid valve for operating the solenoid valve to control the water to selectively flow through the coupling tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventor: Hsiang Hung Wang
  • Patent number: 8857466
    Abstract: A system that provides for the remote control shutoff of a main supply of a utility to a structure in an unattended manner comprises a solenoid activated shutoff valve typically mounted immediately downstream of a main shutoff valve and a securable enclosure containing a remote control switch and audible alarm unit electrically connected to a power source. A manual bypass valve is provided as an override should it be required. Because the system requires electricity to operate, a general power failure will automatically shut off of the water supply. No back-up power source, such as a back-up battery, is utilized with the present system. Further, activation of the system is accomplished using a remote control to control the system from a distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Thomas J. Wilson
  • Patent number: 8844901
    Abstract: A flow control valve is disclosed that includes a valve body member having a seating surface that is seated on a valve seated surface. Multiple inflow orifices and multiple outflow orifices may be formed on the valve seated surface or the seating surface, and may be formed so as not to overlap each other in a state in which the seating surface is seated on the valve seated surface. An inside inflow channel that is in communication with the inflow channel and the inflow orifice may be formed inside a member where the inflow orifices are formed and an inside outflow channel that is in communication with the outflow channel and the outflow orifice is formed inside a member where the outflow orifices are formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Horiba STEC, Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shigeyuki Hayashi
  • Patent number: 8807166
    Abstract: A shutter set includes a first vane and a first vane stop. The first vane is moveable between a first position and a second position. The first vane stop is selectively moveable between a locking position and a free position, relative to the first vane. The first vane stop is configured to apply a bias force or is configured to bias the first vane by a predetermined clearance distance when the first vane stop is in the locking position, and is configured to allow movement of the first vane between the first position and the second position when the first vane stop is in the free position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Scott P. Charnesky, Nilesh D. Mankame, Paul W. Alexander
  • Patent number: 8783027
    Abstract: A pressure regulation circuit delivers pressurized fluid into a generator. The circuit includes pressure regulator structure and a primary valve. The pressure regulator structure outputs pressurized fluid at a predetermined output pressure that is greater than a desired operating pressure of the generator and less than a predetermined upper alarm pressure. The primary valve is downstream from the pressure regulator structure and is selectively opened and closed by a controller based on the pressure within the generator. The controller opens the primary valve to allow the pressurized fluid outputted from the pressure regulator structure to flow into the generator upon the pressure within the generator being at or below a predetermined lower limit. The controller closes the primary valve to prevent the pressurized fluid outputted from the pressure regulator structure from flowing into the generator upon the pressure within the generator being at or above a predetermined upper limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Energy, Inc.
    Inventor: Owen R. Snuttjer
  • Patent number: 8763419
    Abstract: A motor-operated valve configured to control the flow rate during a normal flow and pass the fluid so as to minimize pressure loss during a reverse flow, and a refrigeration cycle using the same, are provided. It is configured such that during a normal flow, the fluid is made to flow only from between the main valve member and the orifice to perform flow rate control, and during a reverse flow, all or a majority of the fluid is made to flow to a bypass channel without being passed through the orifice to decrease pressure loss as much as possible. A check valve member which closes the bypass channel during a normal flow and opens it during a reverse flow is provided in the valve main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Fujikoki Corporation
    Inventor: Takeshi Suganama
  • Patent number: 8757203
    Abstract: A gas valve unit for adjusting a gas volume flow fed to a gas burner of a gas-operated device, particularly a gas cooking appliance, includes a valve body, in which at least two valve seats of open-close valves of the gas valve unit are formed. At least two throttle points each having at least one throttle opening are formed in the valve body. The valve body includes a plurality of mutually parallel plates, with one of the parallel plates forming a valve sealing plate with the at least two valve seats of the open/close valves and another of the parallel plates forming a throttle plate with the throttle openings of the at least two throttle points. The valve sealing plate is made of a flexible material, such as plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Christophe Cadeau, Stéphane Clauss, Alexander Eisenberg, Jörn Naumann
  • Patent number: 8689822
    Abstract: A pressure control system remotely controls pressure within one or more remote zones, each respectively connected to an enclosure through a conduit, by controlling flow of a fluid into and out of each enclosure. The pressure of the fluid is measured within each enclosure. An estimated pressure within each zone is computed, as a function of the measured pressure in the enclosure and known characteristics of the conduit and the zone. For each zone, an inlet proportional valve and an outlet proportional valve of each enclosure is operated so as to control the input flow rate of the fluid into the respective enclosure and the output flow rate of the fluid out of the enclosure as a function of a pressure set point and the estimated pressure, thereby regulating pressure within the zone in accordance with the pressure set point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Ali Shajii, Siddharth P. Nagarkatti, Gordon Hill
  • Patent number: 8684034
    Abstract: A micromechanical pressure relief valve arrangement comprises a stack of wafers. An active pressure relief valve is realized within the stack of wafers. A passive pressure relief valve is also realized within the stack of wafers, arranged in parallel to the active pressure relief valve. A check valve, also realized within the stack of wafers, is arranged in series with both the active pressure relief valve and the passive pressure relief valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Nanospace AB
    Inventors: Tor-Arne Grönland, Pelle Rangsten, Kerstin Jonsson, Johan Bejhed
  • Patent number: 8662107
    Abstract: A switch device for water conduit valve comprises a valve body having a water inflow passage bifurcated to form more than one water outflow passage, a first water inlet and a second water inlet disposed between the water inflow passage and the water outflow passage, a magnetic valve switch device connected to the first water inlet and a manual control switch device connected to the second water inlet to provide a user to freely select controlling water flow that is introduced into the water outflow passage from the first water inlet or the second water inlet through any switch device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Yuan-Mei Corp.
    Inventor: Chi-Han Cheng
  • Patent number: 8539978
    Abstract: A valve unit for adjusting gas flow to a combustion apparatus includes a valve member that moves relative to a valve seat in response to a signal input to a coil, for varying a high-capacity gas flow rate through the valve unit. The valve unit includes a first opening port, a second opening port that is smaller than the first opening port, and a closure member. The closure member is movable between an open position, in which said high-capacity gas flow rate is communicated via the first and second opening ports to an outlet, and a closed position against the first opening port, in which a low-capacity gas flow rate is communicated via only the second opening port to the outlet. The valve unit includes a solenoid for selectively moving the closure member between the open position and closed position to selectively establish a high-capacity gas flow rate or low capacity gas flow rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Mike Santinanavat, Mark H. Stark, Don Blessing
  • Patent number: 8474787
    Abstract: The invention relates to a valve cartridge for a solenoid valve, having a capsule, a valve insert that is inserted by a first end into the capsule and on its other end receives a valve body with a main valve seat. A lower valve part is axially braced on the valve insert, and a flat filter for filtering out dirt particles is connected via a retaining element to the lower valve part. According to the invention, the retaining element includes at least one component on the flat filter side and at least one corresponding component on the lower valve part side, which makes at least one partial clamping connection between the flat filter and the lower valve part. The invention further relates to a solenoid valve having such a valve cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhard Fink, Joerg Fricke-Schmidt, Hans-Peter Bartosch
  • Patent number: 8430129
    Abstract: Disclosed embodiments include electromagnetic flow regulators for regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid, systems for regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid, methods of regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid, nuclear fission reactors, systems for regulating flow of an electrically conductive reactor coolant, and methods of regulating flow of an electrically conductive reactor coolant in a nuclear fission reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jon D. McWhirter, Ashok Odedra, Joshua C. Walter, Kevan D. Weaver, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8397760
    Abstract: Disclosed embodiments include electromagnetic flow regulators for regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid, systems for regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid, methods of regulating flow of an electrically conductive fluid, nuclear fission reactors, systems for regulating flow of an electrically conductive reactor coolant, and methods of regulating flow of an electrically conductive reactor coolant in a nuclear fission reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jon D. McWhirter, Ashok Odedra, Joshua C. Walter, Kevan D. Weaver, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8327874
    Abstract: A high integrity protection system (HIPS) for protection of a pipe downstream of a wellhead includes: an inlet connected to the wellhead; outlet connected to the downstream pipe; two sets of two series-connected surface safety valves (SSVs) in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet, the two sets being in parallel fluid flow relation to each other, either one or both of the sets of SSVs operable as a flowpath for fluids entering the inlet and passing through the outlet to the downstream pipe; two vent control valves (VCVs), each connected to piping intermediate one set of series-connected SSVs, the VCVs being in fluid communication with a vent line, whereby, upon opening of a VCV, process pressure between the two SSVs is vented; a signal-generating safety logic solver, in accordance with preprogrammed safety and operational protocols; and pressure sensing transmitters attached to piping upstream of the HIPS outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Patrick S. Flanders
  • Patent number: 8181757
    Abstract: An adjustable damping valve including an actuator, which exerts an actuating force on a valve body against the force of a spring to influence the throttle cross section which determines the damping force, where an emergency valve is connected in parallel with the throttle cross section with respect to the flow direction of the damping medium, where the two control surfaces of the valve body move in the axial direction and can thus can come to rest alternately on the two valve seating surfaces, and where the valve body is divided into two parts in the longitudinal direction, and each valve body assembly has its own control surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Steffen Heyn, Bernd Zeissner
  • Patent number: 8113596
    Abstract: A solenoid valve for a brake system, which has a simple constitution and can be easily manufactured with reduced manufacturing costs, is disclosed. A valve core is formed in a cylindrical shape, and has a through-hole formed in a longitudinal direction of the valve core and a fluid passage formed in a radial direction of the valve core so as to communicate with the through-hole. A sleeve is coupled to an outer surface of the valve core. The sleeve has a dome-shaped shielding portion at one end, and a flange portion to be fixed to a modulator block at the other end. An armature is slidably mounted in the sleeve. An exciting coil is provided to move the armature. A valve seat is fixed in the valve core, and has a first orifice. A plunger is mounted in the valve core. The plunger moves by movement of the armature to open or close the first orifice. A restoring spring is provided to press the plunger toward the armature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Mando Corporation
    Inventors: Sang Cheol Lee, Chung Jae Lee, Dong Il Seo
  • Patent number: 8096321
    Abstract: An electrohydraulic valve assembly having an inflow channel, a working channel and an outflow channel, including first and second valves each having a magnetic regulating device for applying a regulated activation force to the respective valve. The valves are arranged in parallel so that either can provide the hydraulic connection between the inflow, working and outflow channels. In the case of error detection, the active valve is deactivated and the until then passive valve is activated and vice-versa. The deactivating of a valve device moves the valve piston to a hydraulic neutral position by means of a second stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Voith Turbo GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Armin Goll
  • Patent number: 8051875
    Abstract: A protection apparatus detects and reduces overpressure in a fluid pipeline. First and second pipeline valves are connected in series along the pipeline and are independently switchable between open and closed positions. A pressure transducer determines the fluid pressure in the pipeline at a point intermediate the first and second pipeline valves. A bypass line has a first end connected to the pipeline between the input end and the first pipeline valve and a second end connected to the pipeline between the first and second pipeline valves. A bypass valve is connected along the bypass line. A vent line is connected to the bypass line between the bypass valve and the second end of the bypass line. A vent valve is connected along the vent line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventor: Jeremy Paul Lawrence Edwards
  • Patent number: 8037896
    Abstract: A pressure control system remotely controls pressure within one or more remote zones, each respectively connected to an enclosure through a conduit, by controlling flow of a fluid into and out of each enclosure. The pressure of the fluid is measured within each enclosure. An estimated pressure within each zone is computed, as a function of the measured pressure in the enclosure and known characteristics of the conduit and the zone. For each zone, an inlet proportional valve and an outlet proportional valve of each enclosure is operated so as to control the input flow rate of the fluid into the respective enclosure and the output flow rate of the fluid out of the enclosure as a function of a pressure set point and the estimated pressure, thereby regulating pressure within the zone in accordance with the pressure set point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Ali Shajii, Siddharth P. Nagarkatti, Gordon Hill
  • Patent number: 7913815
    Abstract: Disclosed is a solution to automate a seal oil float trap by-pass for a hydrogen cooled generator. An automated by-pass system is coupled to an existing manual by-pass system for a float trap for a hydrogen cooled generator. The automated by-pass system includes at least one solenoid valve and a controller that controls opening and closing of the solenoid valve. The automated by-pass system can also include manual valves, orifices and limit switches. The controller activates the solenoid valve to allow the seal oil to drain. The controller can also provide a notification alarm that the hydrogen cooled generator is being purged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Ravindra Annigeri, Patrick William Anglin, Marlowe Cameron Bjorklund, Leigh-Ann Darden Heuser, Reginald Wayne Kemp, David Lee Rogers
  • Patent number: 7905251
    Abstract: A high integrity protection system (HIPS) for protection of a pipe downstream of a wellhead includes an inlet connected to the wellhead; outlet connected to the downstream pipe; two sets of two series-connected surface safety valves (SSVs) in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet, the sets being in parallel fluid flow relation to each other, either one or both of the sets of SSVs operable as a flowpath for fluids entering the inlet and passing through the outlet to the downstream pipe; two vent control valves (VCVs), each connected to piping intermediate one set of series-connected SSVs, the VCVs being in fluid communication with a vent line, whereby, upon opening of a VCV, process pressure between the two SSVs is vented; a signal-generating safety logic solver, in accordance with preprogrammed safety and operational protocols; and pressure sensing transmitters attached to piping upstream of the HIPS outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Patrick S. Flanders
  • Patent number: 7900650
    Abstract: A system that provides for the remote control shutoff of the main water supply to a structure in an unattended manner is herein disclosed. The system comprises a solenoid activated shutoff valve typically mounted immediately downstream of a main water shutoff valve and a locking enclosure containing a remote control switch and audible alarm unit. A manual bypass valve is provided as an override should it be required. Because the system requires electricity to operate, a general power failure will automatically shut off of the water supply. Further, activation of the system is accomplished using a remote control to control the system from a distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas J. Wilson
  • Patent number: 7798167
    Abstract: A gas supply facility includes a plurality of pressure type flow controllers connected in parallel, and a first controller to control operation of the plurality of pressure type flow controllers so as to supply a desired gas exhausted by a vacuum pump to a chamber while controlling its flow rate, one of the pressure type flow controllers operates as a second controller to control the gas flow rate range up to 10% of the maximum flow rate supplied to the chamber, while the remaining pressure type flow controllers are made to be ones that control the rest of the gas flow rate range. Furthermore, pressure inside the chamber is controlled by installing a pressure detector in the chamber, inputting the value detected by the detector to the controller, and by adjusting a control signal to the pressure type flow controllers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignees: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Tadahiro Ohmi, Akniobu Teramoto, Tomio Uno, Ryousuke Dohi, Kouji Nishino, Osamu Nakamura, Atsushi Matsumoto, Masaaki Nagase, Nobukazu Ikeda
  • Patent number: 7628170
    Abstract: A flow control valve is provided that comprises a valve housing having an inlet, an outlet, and a valve chamber that includes a first valve port opening in communication with the inlet and a second valve port opening in communication with the outlet. The various embodiments further comprise a modulating member having first and second tapered arcuate slots therein, which is disposed in the valve chamber approximate the first valve port opening and second valve port opening. The modulating member is rotatable to adjustably position a wider or narrower portion of both the first tapered arcuate slot and second tapered arcuate slot over the first valve port opening and second valve port opening respectively, to adjustably vary the rate of fluid flow through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Kee Kok-Hiong, Girish Mevada
  • Patent number: 7594517
    Abstract: The present invention prevents substantial reduction of flow rate control accuracy in a small flow quantity range, achieves accurate flow rate control over the entire range of flow rate control, and also allows control of a wide pressure range of a chamber with accurate flow rate control. Specifically, a gas supply facility having a plurality of pressure type flow controllers connected in parallel, and a third controller to control operation of the pressure type flow controllers to supply a desired gas exhausted by a vacuum pump to a chamber while controlling its flow rate, is provided wherein one pressure type flow controller is a controller used to control a gas flow rate range up to 10% of the maximum flow rate supplied to the chamber, while the remaining pressure type flow controllers are made to be ones controlling the rest of the gas flow rate range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignees: Fujikin Incorporated, Tokyo Electron Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Kannan, Tomio Uno, Ryousuke Dohi, Kouji Nishino, Osamu Nakamura, Atsushi Matsumoto, Nobukazu Ikeda
  • Patent number: 7527069
    Abstract: A pressure relief check valve system includes a valve body, a flapper, a magnet, an electromagnet, and a pressure sensor circuit. The flapper is rotationally mounted on the valve body and is movable between a closed position and an open position. The magnet is coupled to the flapper, and the electromagnet is coupled to the valve body. The pressure sensor circuit is adapted to sense one or more fluid pressures and is operable, based on the one or more sensed fluid pressures, to selectively supply or interrupt the electrical current to the electromagnet. The electromagnet is coupled to receive the electrical current and, upon receipt of the electrical current, either magnetically attracts or does not magnetically attract the magnet, to thereby hold the flapper in the closed position or allow flapper rotation to the open position, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Stuart K. Denike, G. Stephen McGonigle, Robert D. Sleeper, Craig T. Dorste, Don J. Atkins, Joseph J. Jira
  • Patent number: 7426935
    Abstract: A master/slave tank system for storing a compressed hydrogen gas, where the system employs an electrically driven shut-off valve for each tank in the system. The tank system includes a master tank and a slave tank for storing the gas. A first line is coupled to the master tank for providing the gas stored therein to a fuel cell stack. A master tank shut-off valve is positioned in the first line between the master tank and a pressure regulator. A second line is coupled to the slave tank for providing the gas stored therein to the master tank as the pressure difference between the slave tank and the master tank changes. An electrically driven slave tank shut-off valve is positioned within the second line, where the slave tank shut-off valve automatically closes the second line in response to an increase in the differential pressure across the slave tank valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Mirko Schwan, Holger Winkelmann, Wolfgang Oelerich
  • Patent number: 7325567
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to an electro-pneumatic retarder control (EPRC) valve for a pneumatic retarder that controls the speed of railroad cars in a marshaling yard. The EPRC valve has a housing that generally encloses and protects its various components. The housing has a lid that can be opened to gain access to a control panel mounted on an interior door. The control panel includes a display, keyboard and programmable logic controller or PLC module that can be adjusted to set the desired pressure levels of the retarder. The EPRC valve has a modular pressure control assembly that includes an intake and exhaust manifold, a retarder supply and return manifold and several interchangeable control lines formed by like-shaped control valves and components. A pilot air control assembly enables the PLC module to selectively open and close the control valves and lines to deliver or release pressurized air to the retarder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: AAA Sales & Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Heyden, Lowell B. Ziese, James D. Braatz
  • Patent number: 7219689
    Abstract: A water pressure regulator for a watering system of an animal house is provided with a water inlet member comprising a watering path and a flush path. The watering path is operably engaged by the regulating valve. The inlet member is manually movable relative to the housing, to position the watering path outlet relative to the regulating valve to prevent the regulating valve from engaging the inlet member, thereby placing the regulator in a flush mode. The flush path has a water exit into the regulator spaced from the watering path port, and hence is not engagable by the regulating valve. A flush valve is provided in the flush path, and is moveable between a closed position in which the regulator will operate in a drinking mode and an open position in which the regulator will be in a flush mode. An actuator is provided which is operated by a control system to allow for automatic flushing of the watering line according to a predetermined schedule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: The GSI Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene B. Pollock, James M Adermann
  • Patent number: 7198062
    Abstract: A valve is provided for controlling a flow of a fluid between a first environment and a second environment. The valve includes a frame adapted to fit within a perimeter of an aperture in a divider separating the first environment from the second environment. The valve additionally includes a first gate movable within the frame to control a flow of the fluid through the aperture between the first environment and the second environment. The first gate includes a substantially aerodynamically clean surface substantially free from protrusions disrupting the flow of the fluid over the first gate surface. Additionally, the first gate includes a trailing edge having a baffle adapted to cover an aft edge of the frame when the first gate is positioned to have a small opening angle. The baffle includes a plurality of 3-D notches in a front side of the baffle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Herbert L. Hoffman, Pat D. Parkin, Frederick R. Helms, Wen-Hwang Lin, Roy Hai-Tien Loh, Yeu-Chuan Hsia, Naval K. Agarwal, F. Wayne Hollatz, Robert J. Devitis, Richard A. Black, Wendell R. Miller, Martin Steinert, Frank Arnold, Ulf Michel, Wolfgang Neise
  • Patent number: 7011110
    Abstract: A high capacity coaxial gas valve assembly having a coaxial construction with three valves, in which the assembly opens a smaller second valve prior to opening a larger first valve so that the valve can be operated by a relatively smaller and less expensive coil. In addition, or instead, the valve members may be configured so that the first valve is opened with the impact of a moving element that allows the valve to be operated with a relatively smaller and less expensive coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: Mark H. Stark
  • Patent number: 6968860
    Abstract: A faucet comprising a spout, a passageway, an electrically operable valve; a first manual valve; a first manual handle; and a bypass. The passageway conducts water flow through the spout. The electrically operable valve is disposed within the passageway. The first manual valve disposed within the passageway in series with the electrically operable valve. The first manual handle that controls the first manual valve. The bypass has a first end above the electrically operable valve, relative to the water flow, and a second end below the electrically operable valve, such that a portion of the water flow bypasses the electrically operable valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Hans-Christoph Haenlein, Robert P. Arko, Karen L. Tsuei
  • Patent number: 6868861
    Abstract: A level control system for controlling the thickness of a work material in a slurry form cast upon a moving belt includes a fluid reservoir disposed above the belt, a sensor lens assembly for sensing the slurry height within such reservoir, and a control valve for adding slurry to the reservoir. A lens disposed near the moving belt and above the reservoir is coupled by fiber optics to a remote sensor amplifier for detecting the height of the slurry. A control circuit responsive to the light sensor regulates the flow rate of the slurry through the control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Credence Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: James Edward Ellis
  • Publication number: 20040187934
    Abstract: A manual-automatic water faucet includes a shell installed inside with a water intake base, a water outlet valve, an electromagnetic valve, an induction device and a control device. The control device is composed of a valve rod, a spindle and a revolving button. The revolving button is able to actuate the valve rod to rotate or actuate the spindle to shift axially. When the valve rod is actuated to rotate, it can control water temperature, and when the spindle is actuated to shift axially, it can control the faucet to supply water automatically or manually.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Applicant: Hydrotek Corporation
    Inventor: Su Hwang
  • Patent number: 6796326
    Abstract: A gas pressure regulator shall be created that shows reproducible features even at minimum through flow values, and at the same time allows keeping its lock up characteristic. In addition, gas burners operated at a large modulating range shall allow ignition as well, with the internal pressure drop being kept as low as possible. Also, manufacturing expenses and number of gasproof connections shall be kept at a minimum. To achieve this, the inlet-side chamber and the outlet-side chamber are connected to each other—in addition to the existing passage that is used for pressure regulating purposes—by one or more separate openings with each of such opening forming a seat for a closing body that is individually assigned to said opening and guided in axial direction to its seat, whereat each such closing body is connected to the armature of an solenoid valve assigned to it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Mertik Maxitrol GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Detlef Bayer
  • Patent number: 6691729
    Abstract: A housing (16) comprises a first housing (17) and a second housing (18). The first housing (17) is fixed to a gas cylinder (1) and is provided with a cylinder main valve (3) which is manually opened and closed. The second housing (18) is provided with a main stop valve (4) of an electromagnetically opening and closing valve. The second housing (18) is removably fixed to the first housing (17) by a tightening bolt (39). In this state where the second housing (18) is fixed to the first housing (17), the cylinder main valve (3) has a first valve chamber (44) communicated with a second valve chamber (63) of the main stop valve (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Neriki, Nichiden Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaru Takeda, Mitsunori Sakai, Junichi Ono, Yorikazu Satoh, Ken Nagasawa