Coupling Interlocked With Valve, Or Closure Or Actuator Patents (Class 137/614.06)
  • Patent number: 11835181
    Abstract: A pressure evacuation device for a compressed gas cylinder having a fixed assembly that is semi-permanently attached to an opening in the cylinder and comprises a retractable bleed valve, and a detachable assembly that can be readily attached to and detached from the fixed assembly and comprises a valve stem to control the bleed valve and a valve tee to direct the flow of gas from the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: Westem Valve Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis C. Hatfield, Steve K. Aderholt
  • Patent number: 11460136
    Abstract: A rapid connect coupler for connecting a fluid holding tank to a receptacle in a non-rotatable manner can include a housing, a probe configured to translate in a longitudinal direction within the housing, and a handle assembly configured to cause the probe to translate within the housing. The handle assembly can be movable between a plurality of positions corresponding to decoupled, coupled and venting positions. The coupler can also include a slidable sleeve coupled to an outer surface of the probe and configured to translate with the probe in the longitudinal direction, the sleeve including a collar configured to engage the receptacle in the coupled and uncoupled positions to prevent rotation of the coupler with respect to the receptacle when the two components are engaged to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2022
    Assignee: Engineered Controls International, LLC
    Inventors: Tracy N. Tickle, Jeffrey S. Howard, Chad Thomas
  • Patent number: 11261995
    Abstract: A multiple valve control assembly is described. The multiple valve control assembly includes a first cam/lever assembly to close a first valve, and a second cam/lever assembly to close a second valve. A first locking surface of the first cam/lever assembly, when the first cam/lever assembly is in the open position, physically blocks the rotation of the second cam/lever assembly. This provides for a pressure line to be closed by the first cam/lever assembly before the tank line can be closed by the second cam/lever assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: CAIRN5 LLC
    Inventors: Trent Andersen, Kurt Kutz
  • Patent number: 11067209
    Abstract: A connection adapter for producing a detachable fluid connection between a first fluid system and a second fluid system is provided, the connection adapter comprising a switching valve; a housing including a pressure chamber and a valve chamber fluidly connected; an actuation element to actuate the switching valve to selectively open and close the fluidic connection; a ventilation path leading out of the connection adapter from the valve chamber; a ventilation shut-off means to close and open the ventilation path; a connection element fluidly connecting the pressure chamber to the first fluid system; a quick fastener socket fluidly connecting to the valve chamber and connects the valve chamber to a connection element of the second flush system; and a locking mechanism to lock the quick fastener socket and is restricted to a locked position when the ventilation shut-off means closes off the ventilation path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2021
    Assignees: AVL DiTestGmbH, Carl Kurt Walther GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Dirk Heinrich, Andreas Köpp
  • Patent number: 11015733
    Abstract: A system includes an actuator housing having a plurality of adapter lugs extending radially inward toward an axis, each adapter lug of the plurality of adapter lugs secured to the housing via a respective connector. The system also includes a bonnet having a plurality of bonnet lugs extending radially outward away from the axis, each bonnet lug of the plurality of bonnet lugs being separated by a respective space, the space being sized to permit axial movement of an adapter lug of the plurality of adapter lugs toward a lower flange arranged axially lower than the plurality of bonnet lugs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: GE Oil & Gas Pressure Control LP
    Inventors: Jeremy Ryan Choate, Travis Kyle McEvoy, Lloyd Cheatham, Keith M Adams, Robert Law
  • Patent number: 10865929
    Abstract: A device including a first connector and a second connector. The first connector and the second connector include a stationary body defining a fluid circulation conduit opening up into a connection opening, and a valve that is movable in relation to the stationary body, between a closing position in which the valve closes the connection opening, and a release position in which the valve opens up a passage through the connection opening. The device also comprises a first locking arrangement designed to lock the movable valve of the first connector to the stationary body of the second connector and second locking arrangement designed to lock the stationary body of the first connector to the movable valve of the second connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: Parker Hannifin Manufacturing France
    Inventor: Fabrice Tarissan
  • Patent number: 10760723
    Abstract: A connection nozzle assembly includes an inner fluid product tube, a tube sleeve secured about the fluid product tube, an outer nozzle sleeve, and a locking mechanism disposed between the fluid product tube and the nozzle sleeve. The nozzle sleeve includes a body portion and a rear portion, each being moveable between a plurality of locking positions. The nozzle assembly includes one or more grips configured to rotate forward and backward to lock and unlock the nozzle assembly to a receptacle coupling, respectively. The nozzle sleeve is moved between the plurality of locking positions, thereby engaging the locking mechanism to secure the connection nozzle assembly to a receptacle coupling. The connection nozzle assembly can be uncoupled by reversing the nozzle sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: OPW—ENGINEERED SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Carlos Cosse, Jaskaran Gill, Don Johnson
  • Patent number: 10724666
    Abstract: A coupling member inhibits accidental pivoting of a lever for operating a movable member such as a chuck member or a valve. The coupling member has a chuck member mounted displaceably relative to a female coupling body between a temporarily connecting position (first position) and a connecting position (second position). The chuck member is operated by a lever that is pivotable relative to the female coupling body. When the lever is pivoted from a first pivoting position to a second pivoting position, the chuck member is displaced from the temporarily connecting position to the connecting position to connect an associated male coupling member. When the lever is in the second pivoting position, a lock member of the lever engages a lever holding member to inhibit the lever from pivoting toward the first pivoting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: NITTO KOHKI CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Akihiro Wada
  • Patent number: 10663099
    Abstract: A pipe coupling includes a male coupling member detachably connected to a female coupling member by a chuck member of the female coupling member. The chuck member is disposed radially outside of a female coupling body to extend forward beyond a front end opening. The chuck member is displaceable in a longitudinal direction and also radially displaceable between a locking position where a locking groove locks a locking projection and an unlocking position where the locking groove is displaced radially outward from the locking position to unlock the locking projection. When the chuck member is displaced rearward from a temporarily connecting position to a connecting position in a state where the locking groove has locked the locking projection in the temporarily connecting position, the chuck member draws the male coupling member into a female-side passage to connect the male coupling member to the female coupling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Assignee: NITTO KOHKI CO., LTD
    Inventor: Akihiro Wada
  • Patent number: 10563773
    Abstract: A fluid system coupling includes an adaptor, a coupler, and an actuation mechanism. The adaptor has an adaptor poppet that is movable between an open position and a closed position. The adaptor poppet has a poppet face that is substantially planar and devoid of any recesses. The coupler has a coupler poppet that is movable between an open position and a closed position. The coupler poppet has a poppet face that is substantially planar and avoid of any recesses. The actuation mechanism selectively moves the poppets from the closed positions to the open positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: OPW-ENGINEERED SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Joseph P. Roth, David Morrow, Donald M. Johnson
  • Patent number: 10525820
    Abstract: To provide a filling device capable of preventing that a filling nozzle is detached before depressurization is performed after filling, preventing a seal structure from deteriorating, and decreasing a risk that hydrogen gas leaks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: TATSUNO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masahiro Takezawa, Yuki Terasoma, Kiyoshi Kimura
  • Patent number: 10483731
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for joining extended lengths of conduit. The apparatus and method provide a means for decreasing the time required to assemble extended lengths of conduit. The apparatus for use with the corresponding method comprises an apparatus head, an extender joining body and a conduit interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Inventor: John Fedowitz
  • Patent number: 10458590
    Abstract: A device for preventing refrigerant leaks in air conditioning system service ports includes a coupler to be coupled to the service port. A main body has a longitudinal direction and is disposed adjacent the coupler in the longitudinal direction. A stem is movable inside the main body in the longitudinal direction. A sealing element is disposed adjacent the stem. A head which is fastened to the main body has an internal thread, and a handle has a shaft with an external thread to be screwed into the internal thread of the head. The shaft has a free end remote from the handle for contacting the stem and pushing the sealing element adjacent the stem against an end of the service port upon turning the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Inventor: Mikhail Viehmeyer
  • Patent number: 10422482
    Abstract: A device for supplying pressurized fluid including a pressurized fluid cylinder, at least one first tap connected to the pressurized fluid cylinder, the tap including an internal fluid circuit including an isolation valve, the device including an electronic apparatus for the wireless remote communication of data via electromagnetic waves, the electronic communication apparatus including a communication element designed to communicate wirelessly using at least one of the following frequency-modulation and/or phase-modulation low-consumption and long-range communication technologies: LoRa communication technology, communication technology from Sigfox, where the device includes a protective cap mounted on the cylinder in order to protect the first tap and a second tap connected detachably to the first tap, and the electronic communication apparatus being situated either on the cylinder, on the cap, on the first tap, or on the second tap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Société Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procédés Georges Claude
    Inventors: Philippe Bernard, Patrick Bacot, David Laurent
  • Patent number: 10392187
    Abstract: A fluid coupling includes a body, a poppet valve assembly, a handle shaft assembly, and a retention member. The body has a fluid conduit, a through-hole extending through a sidewall, and one or more openings that extend between an external surface of the body and an interior of the through hole. The poppet valve assembly is disposed within the fluid conduit and is selectively movable between an open position and a closed position. The handle shaft assembly extends through the through-hole and into the fluid conduit and is interconnected with the poppet valve assembly such that the handle shaft assembly can be actuated to move the poppet valve assembly between the open position and the closed position. The retention member is insertable through the one or more openings and into the through-hole to interact with the handle shaft assembly to selectively hold the handle shaft assembly in the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: OPW-ENGINEERED SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Joseph P. Roth, David Morrow, Krzysztof Wejdman, Stephen Hudson, Shiang Taing
  • Patent number: 10252094
    Abstract: A fire extinguisher system that generally provides a passive ability to prevent at least some inadvertent discharge events. The fire extinguisher system having a passively activated (turned on) and deactivated (turned off) sliding safety interlock cross shaft structure. The system interlock operation is generally performed without an operator performing any new or additional tasks in addition to those tasks that are typically implemented during installation, repair, and/or maintenance tasks. The safety interlock shaft is generally shaped and positioned to prevent inadvertent discharge of fire extinguishing chemicals via propellant when the outlet does not have either of a discharge conduit (pipe, tubing, or the like) or the anti-recoil plug properly installed therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Louis J. Gorenc
  • Patent number: 10006563
    Abstract: A multiple valve control assembly is described. The multiple valve control assembly includes a first cam/lever assembly to close a first valve, and a second cam/lever assembly to close a second valve. A first locking surface of the first cam/lever assembly, when the first cam/lever assembly is in the open position, physically blocks the rotation of the second cam/lever assembly. This provides for a pressure line to be closed by the first cam/lever assembly before the tank line can be closed by the second cam/lever assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: CAIRN5 LLC
    Inventors: Trent Andersen, Kurt Kutz
  • Patent number: 9938022
    Abstract: A nozzle adapter for coupling a fueling nozzle to an underwing type servicing adapter having a radially outward extending tab and a notch formed in an open end thereof comprises an outer body including a neck portion having a first conduit formed therein and a substantially cylindrical cap portion, the cap portion including at least one slot formed therein. An inner body has a second conduit formed therein and is disposed within the cap portion of the outer body and an annular channel is formed between the cap portion and the inner body. The at least one tab is received in the at least one slot and a rotation of the nozzle adapter relative to the servicing adapter causes a first aperture configured to receive a locking device therein to be aligned with the at least one notch of the servicing adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: GAMMON TECHNICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: James H. Gammon
  • Patent number: 9876240
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a connector or cable between the fuel supply and the fuel cell that in addition to transporting fuel and electrical power can also communicate control signals between the fuel cell and the cartridge to instruct the fuel cartridge or the fuel cell or both to commence or cease the operation of one or more functions. Control signals can be electrical, fluidic/hydraulic and/or mechanical. The connector or cable may also transport electricity produced by the fuel cell to power an electronic device, and/or to the fuel cartridge to power a component(s) on the cartridge or to re-charge a battery. The connector or cable may have universal connectors that can attach to multiple fuel cells, fuel cartridges and electronic devices, even when manufactured by different manufacturers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Assignee: Intelligent Energy Limited
    Inventors: Gerard F. McLean, Jean-Louis Iaconis, Andrew J. Curello, Aaron Joseph MacDonald, Sven Sturm
  • Patent number: 9857010
    Abstract: An embodiment includes a rapid-connect coupler including a coupler body configured to convey a fluid; a coupling head at a first end of and communicating with the coupler body, the coupling head configured to transition between a coupled configuration and a de-coupled configuration. The coupler may further include a stop apparatus configured to allow the coupling head to transition from the de-coupled configuration to the coupled configuration without obstruction, and the stop apparatus may be configured to provide a hard-stop as the coupling head transitions from the coupled configuration to the de-coupled configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Engineered Controls International, LLC
    Inventor: Howard M. Konishi
  • Patent number: 9551448
    Abstract: This invention relates to a coupling comprising a male part and a female part (7, 9), each having a ducting system (39) for the transmission of fluid (F) during the use of the coupling (1, 1?, 2), at least a front portion (13) comprising a main valve member (19) designed to prevent the fluid (F) from leaving the ducting system (39) when the coupling (1, 1?, 2) is uncoupled. An operating member (5) is connected to a pilot valve member (41, 63, 63?, 64) for controlling the flow of fluid (F) to and for pressurizing a valve chamber (45, 45?) in which a pressure relief valve member (33, 33?, 35, 35?) is designed to move into a position in which the ducting system (39) is opened or throttled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: CEJN AB
    Inventor: Jorgen Ekstrom
  • Patent number: 9457370
    Abstract: A nozzle assembly includes a nozzle body defining an inlet and an opposed spray outlet for producing a spray of fluid supplied at the inlet. The nozzle body includes a radially outward extending retainer feature. An adapter having an adapter bore therethrough is provided for supplying fluid to the inlet of the nozzle body. The nozzle body is engaged within the bore of the adapter. A retainer radially outward of the adapter and nozzle body includes a retainer feature engaged to the retainer feature of the nozzle body to hold the nozzle body and adapter body together. A sleeve is engaged to the retainer radially outward thereof to prevent disengagement of the retainer features of the nozzle body and retainer. The sleeve and retainer are configured for relative movement for releasing the retainer features of the nozzle body and retainer for removal of the nozzle body from the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignees: Delavan Inc, Delavan Limited
    Inventors: Lev A. Prociw, Frank Whittaker, Neil Smith
  • Patent number: 9375816
    Abstract: Described is a novel spindle mounting assembly for use with a computer numeric controlled (CNC) machine, such as a drill tap machine. In one example an auto changer spindle mounting assembly includes a collar with a gas inlet. The collar defines a collar opening therethrough to create a passage between the first side of the collar with the second side of the collar. The collar further includes a passage in fluid communication between the gas inlet and through a nipple to the collar opening. The mounting assembly includes a manifold body with a gas outlet adapted to mate with the gas inlet of the collar, the manifold body defined a passage in fluid communications between, the gas outlet and a manifold body inlet. Also included is at least one extension bar, adapted to mechanically fasten to the manifold body to a computer controlled machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Assignee: Air Turbine Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Kemma Samuel Dodds
  • Patent number: 9316560
    Abstract: Hydrostatic testing tool and methods for testing a test article, such as a hose or container having an external threaded aperture. The preferred testing tool includes a housing, a piston and a collet body having a plurality of collet segments collectively forming a cylindrical inner perimeter having a variable diameter, each collet segment having a threaded surface on the inner perimeter such that the piston can selectively actuate the collet body to vary the diameter of the inner perimeter. In preferred embodiments, the hydrostatic testing tool utilizes a handle assembly that is arranged and configured such that only one hand is needed to operate the hydrostatic testing tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: Airmo, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles R. Smida
  • Patent number: 9310009
    Abstract: A grease and lubricating oil line coupler includes a nozzle and a receiver which can be intercoupled for grease or lubricating oil delivery. Each component has a normally closed, easily-cleanable, flush-faced mating surface, which prevents the entrance of contaminants into the free ends thereof when decoupled. The nozzle has a handle-operated internal valve with an interlock that is controlled by a quick disconnect slidable collar, which prevents the release of lubricants from the nozzle unless it is coupled to the receiver. Only when the nozzle and receiver are interconnected can the valve be opened; only when the valve is closed can the nozzle be decoupled from the receiver. A high-pressure bleed-off feature returns high-pressure excess lubricant within the coupler to the lubricant storage tank when the handle of the nozzle is returned to its OFF position prior to decoupling it from the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Inventor: Robert Charles Cooley
  • Patent number: 9068676
    Abstract: A vertical connector composed of three main components; one stationary connector part on a submerged connecting point, one mobile connector part intended for submerging and connecting to the stationary connector part and a connector which subsequent to the mating of the connector parts locks the connector parts together into permanent sealing connection. The stationary connector part has an upwards projecting pipe boss, and the mobile connector part has integrated, internally shielding and guiding means to assist the entering of the mobile connector part onto the stationary connector part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: AKER SUBSEA AS
    Inventor: Morten Rengman Morck
  • Patent number: 9068334
    Abstract: An apparatus for emptying a storage tank of a vehicle into a collection unit, the apparatus including: a conduit assembly including a conduit received in a channel of a self-supporting chain, the conduit assembly unwindable from a reel located in a recess of the vehicle to move an outlet of the conduit into communication with an inlet of the collection unit prior to opening the valve of the storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Inventors: Erich Penner, Kurt Richard Penner
  • Patent number: 9052048
    Abstract: A fluid joint having a first coupler includes a cylindrical first main body and an outer cylinder located at the outer circumferential side of the first main body, which protrudes to a distal end of the first main body, and is provided with a first engagement portion and a second engagement portion at the distal end. The second coupler includes a second main body provided with a third engagement portion that can engage with the first engagement portion and a fourth engagement portion that can engage with the second engagement portion. The phases of the first engagement portion and the third engagement portion match in the process of engagement thereof, so that the second engagement portion and the fourth engagement portion engage with each other to join the outer cylinder and the second main body together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Takanobu Kamiya, Ryo Nakamura, Katsuya Hako
  • Patent number: 8967177
    Abstract: Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a body that defines a bore that extends through the body. A ball valve assembly is engaged to the body. The ball valve assembly includes a ball valve disposed in the bore the body and an actuator that extends through the body. The ball valve defines a passage through the ball valve. The actuator is engaged to the ball valve and includes a plurality of teeth. A sleeve is disposed about the body. The sleeve is configured for at least partial rotation about the body. The sleeve includes a gear protrusion that has a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth engages the plurality of teeth of the actuator during rotation of the sleeve to actuate the ball valve between an open position and a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory Alan Haunhorst, Stephen Carl Taras
  • Publication number: 20150041010
    Abstract: This invention relates to a coupling comprising a male part and a female part (7, 9), each having a ducting system (39) for the transmission of fluid (F) during the use of the coupling (1, 1 ?, 2), at least a front portion (13) comprising a main valve member (19) designed to prevent the fluid (F) from leaving the ducting system (39) when the coupling (1, 1?, 2) is uncoupled. An operating member (5) is connected to a pilot valve member (41, 63, 63?, 64) for controlling the flow of fluid (F) to and for pressurising a valve chamber (45, 45?) in which a pressure relief valve member (33, 33?, 35, 35?) is designed to move into a position in which the ducting system (39) is opened or throttled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Applicant: CEJN AB
    Inventor: Jorgen Ekstrom
  • Patent number: 8939172
    Abstract: A ball valve is provided for threaded connection to a separable component 72 having male threads 74. A housing 10 contains a ball 12 selectively rotatable for passing fluid through the housing, and a flange member 20 threadably secured to the valve housing. A stop ring 16 is positioned outward of the valve housing and engages the flange member. A coupling 20 is threadably secured to the stop ring and includes female threads for engagement with male threads on the separable component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: PGI International, Ltd
    Inventor: Spencer Nimberger
  • Patent number: 8887762
    Abstract: A quick connect coupling includes female and male assemblies. The female and male assemblies include first and second valves, respectively, operable between open and closed positions. The male assembly connects to the female assembly by axial movement and relative rotation, wherein the male assembly disconnects from the female assembly by relative rotation and axial separation, wherein relative rotation of the assemblies moves the second valve between the open and closed positions. Moving the second valve from the closed to the open position allows the first valve to be movable from the closed position to the open position and moving the first valve from the closed to the open position limits relative rotation between the assemblies and prevents disconnection. Disconnection can only occur when the first valve has been moved to the closed position. Disconnection moves the second valve from the open to the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: David Scott Densel, Gregory Alan Haunhorst
  • Patent number: 8875375
    Abstract: A method for using a fire engine hose connector system is reported. The system allows for rapid connection between the fire hose and the fire engine, and more importantly the system enables even more rapid disconnection. The fire engine and fire fighting personnel may make a rapid escape form an overtaking wildfire. The ability to rapidly disconnect and escape from the fire scene allows the fire engine and personnel to access hydrant supplies that would otherwise not be available due to safety procedures that preclude connection when the long disconnect time requirements of prior art connectors place the escape of the fire engine and personnel at risk in a rapidly moving fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Eric Topacio
  • Patent number: 8869845
    Abstract: The invention relates to a pressurized gas dispensing device such as a tap, which includes a first end, to be placed in the opening of a pressurized gas storage tank, and a second end, including a connection interface selectively connectable to a device for controlling the filling and/or withdrawal of gas from the tank, the dispensing device including an internal gas circuit having an upstream end connecting inside the tank and a downstream end to be connected to said filling and/or withdrawal control device, the internal circuit including in series, upstream to downstream, a pressure regulator and a downstream insulation valve, the portion of the internal circuit located between the pressure regulator and the downstream insulation valve defining a so-called low-pressure chamber, the dispensing device; being characterized in that the connection interface includes at least one safety lock selectively movable between a first rest position, wherein the lock shapes the connection interface into a first configurat
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Société Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procédés Georges Claude
    Inventors: Alessandro Moretti, Philippe Pisot
  • Patent number: 8813795
    Abstract: The invention relates to a passive valve for multi-valve devices for sealing a container or a line. According to one aspect of the invention, the passive valve is free of bearing supports which protrude in a positive sense out of the passive valve. The invention also relates to a multi-valve device for contamination-free connection of two containers or two lines with partial valves that can be rotated about a single axis. According to this aspect of the invention, at least three partial valves, which are arranged essentially parallel to one another and can be put under tension so they can be sealed with respect to their surroundings, can be rotated about the single shared axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Andocksysteme G. UNTCH GmbH
    Inventor: Guenter Untch
  • Patent number: 8807525
    Abstract: A quick-release coupling includes a socket defining a first passage in a connection port thereof, a locking member mounted in a front end of the socket and adapted for locking an inserted external male mating connector, an air valve control device mounted in a rear end of the socket, and a leak-proof device having a stopper mounted in the front end of the socket and defining therein a second passage, which is kept in communication with the first passage upon insertion of an external mating male connector into the front end of the socket to move the stopper backward, or blocked from the first passage after removable of the inserted external mating male connector and a forward movement of the stopper by the air valve control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Sun-Wounder Industrial Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Chia-Chun Chang
  • Patent number: 8776828
    Abstract: Known fluid dispensers can suffer from the disadvantage of inadvertent disconnection of a connector causing potentially hazardous spillage of fluid. The present invention relates to a fluid dispensing assembly comprising a tap and a connector body. The tap comprises a first valve, movable between an open and closed position to allow fluid flow through; and a first portion of an interlocking coupling, configured for rotational engagement with a second complementary interlocking coupling portion of the connector body by rotation about a first fluid dispensing assembly axis. The connector body also comprises a second valve, movable between an open and closed position to allow fluid flow through. By this configuration, the first and second interlocking coupling portions remain interlocked preventing disconnection of the connector body from the tap unless the first and second valves are both in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Yeong-Heng Koo, Andrew Nicholson Wrigley
  • Patent number: 8752586
    Abstract: A fluid transfer system includes a transfer device coupled to a dry break coupler. The transfer device includes a valve assembly moveable between an open and a closed position. The valve assembly includes a main valve and a pilot valve. An actuator controls both the main valve and the pilot valve. A cam plate interconnects the actuator and the valve assembly. The cam plate provides a quick acting shutoff to quickly move the valve assembly to the closed position. A pivotal and rotatable connector couples the transfer device to the dry break coupler. A lock is integrated with the actuator to lock the valve assembly in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Marshall Excelsior Company
    Inventors: Frederick W. Blanchard, Alex L. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 8596316
    Abstract: The invention relates to a coupling closure for a docking device used for decanting, filling, and/or emptying containers, particularly in an environmentally isolated manner. The coupling closure has a closure side and a container side and comprises a nozzle stub and a cap which is mounted in the nozzle stub so as to be pivotable about an axis and has an external side that faces the closure side in the closed position. The invention further relates to a docking device for decanting, filling, and/or emptying containers, particularly in an environmentally isolated manner. The docking device comprises first and second disclosed coupling closures which can be placed flush against each other by the respective closure sides thereof. The invention also relates to a working platform, a locking unit for a docking device, and a method for decanting, filling, and/or emptying containers, particularly in an environmentally isolated manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: GEA Pharma Systems AG
    Inventors: Martin Koch, Peter Lais, Gunter Philipp, Joachim Stoye
  • Patent number: 8590557
    Abstract: A dual flap device for the environmentally tight connection of two receptacles is provided with two housing halves, which can be releasably connected. Each housing half accommodates a flap, which is pivotable by way of a half shaft. In a connected position of the dual flap device, the housing halves and the flaps rest against each other and are tensioned against one another, respectively. The half shafts of the two flaps unite to form a mutual shaft having a rotational axis. Thus, using a locking device, both flaps can be pivoted between a closed position and an open position by way of the mutual shaft. A first housing half is provided with a locking device, at least on one side, located in axial extension of the respective half shaft, which makes it possible to switch the dual flap device between an unlocked and a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Andocksysteme G. Untch GmbH
    Inventor: Günter Untch
  • Patent number: 8539995
    Abstract: Coupling locks, attachment modules, and docking devices allow for re-filling, filling and/or emptying of containers in a manner that is insulated against the environment. An attachment module includes a coupling lock and a locking clamp, where the coupling lock includes a pipe nozzle and a closing flap. A first clamping element is located on an outer side of the pipe nozzle to engage with a second clamping element by means of the locking clamp to create a temporary connection. A docking device includes the first coupling lock or the attachment module, and a second coupling lock, complementary to the first coupling lock. When the closing flaps of the first and second coupling locks are brought into contact with each other, they can be pivoted from a closed position, where they lock the transfer channel formed by the pipe nozzles, around a shared axis into an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: GEA Pharma Systems AG
    Inventors: Thomas Marsden Smith, Peter Lais, Martin Koch
  • Patent number: 8539996
    Abstract: A docking device for transferring the contents of, filling, and/or emptying containers comprises first and second coupling latches positioned flush to one another along respective closing sides thereof. A locking unit is configured for locking together pipe nozzles of the first and second coupling latches. The locking unit includes at least one movable first arresting element that is present in a passage that has an opening to an exterior of the second coupling latch, and is configured to interact with a corresponding second arresting element present on an exterior of the pipe nozzle of the second coupling latch. The docking device further comprises a bolt that is movable in a cylinder. The bolt has a first section with a first diameter, a second section with a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter, and a third transfer section between the first and second section with a tapering diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: GEA Pharma Systems AG
    Inventors: Peter Lais, Martin Koch
  • Patent number: 8523155
    Abstract: A fluid passage connection device includes a positioning mechanism that incorporates a male coupler attached to a stationary base member and a female coupler attached to a movable member, and that positions the movable member with respect to the base member so that it becomes possible to connect the male and female couplers, and a clamping mechanism that drives the movable member in order to clamp and fix the movable member with respect to the base member by the elastic force of a spring, and that also releases this clamping with the hydraulic pressure of a hydraulic cylinder; and the male coupler has a connection sleeve that is driven to retract by hydraulic pressure and is driven to advance by a spring, with a hydraulic passage being provided that interconnects a hydraulic pressure operation chamber of the connection sleeve and an unclamping hydraulic chamber of the hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Pascal Engineering Corporation
    Inventor: Takayuki Kuroda
  • Patent number: 8365769
    Abstract: A ball valve is provided for threaded connection to a separable component 72 having male threads 74. A housing 10 contains a ball 12 selectively rotatable for passing fluid through the housing, and a flange member 20 threadably secured to the valve housing. A stop ring 16 is positioned outward of the valve housing and engages the flange member. A coupling 20 is threadably secured to the stop ring and includes female threads for engagement with male threads on the separable component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: PGI International, Ltd.
    Inventor: Spencer Nimberger
  • Patent number: 8353314
    Abstract: A modular coupling system allows a combined gas canister and integral regulator to be used with a wide range of different utilizer devices such as flow meter, conservor or delivery apparatus. A first coupling part is secured to the pressurized gas canister permanently, and carries a combined main delivery valve and venting valve to allow connection of the gas utilizer to the canister by means of a second coupling part formed integrally with or attached to the gas utilizer device by a simple push and twist action which, upon fitting, closes the venting valve; and opens the main delivery valve in sequence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: BPR Medical Limited
    Inventors: Richard Radford, David Edgar Peel, Andrew Richard Thomas Tatarek-Gintowt, Arthur Frederick George King
  • Publication number: 20130000763
    Abstract: Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a body that defines a bore that extends through the body. A ball valve assembly is engaged to the body. The ball valve assembly includes a ball valve disposed in the bore the body and an actuator that extends through the body. The ball valve defines a passage through the ball valve. The actuator is engaged to the ball valve and includes a plurality of teeth. A sleeve is disposed about the body. The sleeve is configured for at least partial rotation about the body. The sleeve includes a gear protrusion that has a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth engages the plurality of teeth of the actuator during rotation of the sleeve to actuate the ball valve between an open position and a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Gregory Alan Haunhorst, Stephen Carl Taras
  • Patent number: 8336853
    Abstract: Recock handle assemblies for bottom loading couplers and bottom loading couplers comprising the same are disclosed. The recock handle assemblies for bottom loading couplers may include a lever portion comprising a first lever arm, a second lever arm and a lever bar oriented in a substantially u-shaped configuration. A handle portion may be joined to the lever portion with a first pivot block and a second pivot block, the handle portion comprising a first connecting leg, a second connecting leg, and a bail. The first connecting leg and the second connecting leg may be positioned in a first plane and the bail is non-coplanar with the first plane. A first base plate may be pivotally coupled to the first pivot block. The first base plate may include a first body guide member and a first sleeve guide member. A second base plate may be pivotally coupled to the second pivot block, the second base plate comprising a second body guide member and a second sleeve guide member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark J. Tausch, Jeffrey W. Reichert
  • Patent number: 8336579
    Abstract: An emergency disconnection system for a fluid loading arm includes two valves, a collar which when closed secures the valves together and which when opened allows the valves to disconnect from each other, and an actuator which includes a single rod which is movable axially over a length of travel. A first jack moves the rod over a first portion of its travel to close the two valves and a second jack moves the rod over a remaining portion of its travel to open the collar. The first and second jacks are independently controllable and positioned substantially coaxially relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: FMC Technologies SA
    Inventors: Renaud Le Devehat, Anthony Loyer
  • Patent number: 8322368
    Abstract: Disclosed is a self sealing disconnect for use in connection with an environmental control system. The disconnect includes two mating halves each of which houses an internal butterfly valve. When the halves are engaged, the butterfly valves are opened to complete a fluid circuit. Conversely, when the halves are disengaged, the butterfly valves are close so as to prevent the flow of fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Conax Florida Corporation
    Inventor: Zac D. Zenz
  • Patent number: 8302628
    Abstract: A handle shaft assembly includes a tube spacer, a handle shaft, a stuff box, and an operational handle. The stuff box may be configured for insertion into a through-hole within a bottom loading coupler body and include first and second stuff box ends defining a cylindrical cavity. A first sealing member may be positioned on the first stuff box end, and a second sealing member positioned on the second stuff box end. The tube spacer may be configured to be positioned within a blind counterbore of the bottom loading coupler body. The handle shaft may include a first end positioned within the tube spacer configured to be positioned with a blind bore of the bottom loading coupler body, a linkage section configured to be coupled to a drive linkage of a poppet valve assembly, and a second end extending through the cylindrical cavity of the stuff box. The operational handle is mechanically coupled to the second end of the handle shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark J. Tausch, Joseph P. Roth