Coupling Interlocked With Valve, Or Closure Or Actuator Patents (Class 137/614.06)
  • Publication number: 20120241021
    Abstract: The male coupling half includes a body, an adaptor, a main valve, a secondary valve, and a secondary valve stop. The secondary valve stop is affixed to the secondary valve. The secondary valve stop resides intermediate the main valve and the adaptor. The main valve in combination with the secondary valve stop limit movement of the secondary valve preventing over travel of the secondary valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: SNAP-TITE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: LEONARD J. NICK
  • Patent number: 8256743
    Abstract: A female element quick coupling for releasably joining two pipes conveying a fluid under pressure and which receives a male coupling wherein the female element includes a latch movable relative to a body of the female element between a first position, in which it retains the male portion in a leaktight coupling position, and a second position, in which it retains the male portion in a position for purging a downstream pipe. The female element further includes a control member mounted to slide in an open bore in the body for causing the latch to move at least towards the second position. This female element includes a gasket for closing a gap defined between an outer face of the member and an inside face of the bore especially at high purging pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Staubli Faverges
    Inventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Antoine Chambaud
  • Publication number: 20120211107
    Abstract: A full flow quick connect fluid coupling that reduces spillage using a convex and a concave ball valve mounted each in a separate coupling body that are joined together where the ball valves seal together and are sequentially rotated using one activation lever to first rotate a first ball valve 90 degrees and then rotating a second ball valve 90 degrees using a gear drive mechanism. A handle button release lock and a secondary handle lock ensure that the valves are not opened until the bodies are joined and locked together in sealing engagement. A lock mechanism is used to lock the bodies together and to provide a lock tab that prevents the ball valves from being opened until the lock mechanism is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventor: Gregory A. Haunhorst
  • Publication number: 20120138178
    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: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS, INC.
    Inventors: Yeong-Heng Koo, Andrew Nicholson Wrigley
  • Patent number: 8191576
    Abstract: A quick disconnect valve including a first connector with a first shutoff gate and a second connector with a second shutoff gate. A fluid flow passage is located in the first connector and the second connector. The first shutoff gate and the second shutoff gate include an aperture and are movable between a fully open first position to allow fluid flow through the fluid passage and a fully closed second position to prevent fluid flow through the fluid passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventor: Richard A. Himmelmann
  • Patent number: 8191575
    Abstract: Two independent poppets/valves that open and close independently as a quick connect coupling is mated and unmated are employed as part of a cooling system for high end data processing systems. More particularly, the present invention comprises a quick connect poppet valve having two internal, independently functioning sealing seats therein disposed within a serially connected flow path to prevent leakage and to minimize the effects of debris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Francis R. Krug, Jr., Robert K. Mullady
  • Patent number: 8132781
    Abstract: A fluid coupling includes a body defining a passageway, a valve member that is selectively movable between a closed position and an open position, and an interface at which the body is connectable to a complementary coupling. An interlock system is configured to permit movement of the valve member from the closed position to the open position when the complementary coupling is connected to the body at the interface, and to prevent movement of the valve member from the closed position to the open position when the complementary coupling is not connected to the body at the interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Gregory A. Haunhorst
  • Patent number: 8113485
    Abstract: A leak-proof structure of an oil pipe connector includes: a connector cylinder, being a hollow housing, and having an oil inlet at a front end, and an oil outlet at a rear end, and a switch base interconnected to a shaft hole in the connector cylinder; a control device, installed in the connector cylinder; a switch device, having a transmission shaft, inserted into the shaft hole and linked with the control device, and a switch handle coupled to the top of the transmission shaft; a leak-proof device, having a bearing slot below the shaft hole, and a first leak-proof slot, a circular latch slot and a second leak-proof slot above the leak-proof device, and a bearing being disposed below the bearing slot, and a first O-ring, and a latch ring, a second O-ring for achieving a leak-proof effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Bison, Inc.
    Inventors: Ching-Ching Chang, Ying-Ying Chang, Li-Jen Chang
  • Patent number: 8113240
    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: August 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Marshall Excelsior Company
    Inventors: Frederick W. Blanchard, Alex L. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 7967026
    Abstract: A coupling/decoupling assembly of a pipe which can selectively open/close a flow channel of the pipe is provided. In the coupling/decoupling assembly of the pipe, a first valve and a second valve are respectively joined with each end of a first pipe and a second pipe. A first driving axis and a second driving axis are respectively joined with each end of the first valve and the second valve. An outer surface and an inner surface of the first and second valves are formed in a spherical body, and the inner surface of the first valve and the outer surface of the second valve are overlapped with each other to close the flow channel of the pipe, and the inner surface of the first valve and the outer surface of the second valve having an identical radius of a curvature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignees: Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seok Kyu Chang, Sang Ki Moon, Seok Cho, Bok Deuk Kim
  • Patent number: 7950415
    Abstract: A socket part actuated without pressure for a fluid coupling is provided with a mechanism for mechanically sealing, to a large extent, the insertion space of a plug against the penetration of foreign matter. In addition, a throttling device is provided, which practically does not obstruct the fluid connection for an inserted plug, while a high flow resistance is produced for a plug that has been pulled out, without, however, completely blocking the flow path. The associated plug also has a sealing device in order to protect the flow channel against the penetration of particles when the plug is removed. In case the plug is connected to a compressed-air tank, this is provided with a throttling device, which practically does not obstruct flow for an inserted plug, but forms considerable flow resistance for a removed plug without completely blocking the flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: TEMA Marketing AG
    Inventors: Stefan Witt, Horst Simon
  • Patent number: 7942163
    Abstract: A pipe coupling connecting and disconnecting media conducting pipes, hoses or like conduits, which comprise two coupling halves situated at ends of the conduits; and a connector and a socket end having shutoff sleeves in both coupling halves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Faster S.p.A.
    Inventor: Thomas Sauer
  • Patent number: 7887023
    Abstract: A fluid-transfer coupling device includes a cylindrical housing (1), a cylindrical slider (25), which contains a valve sleeve (15) accommodating a valve (16) to be opened by pressure and which can slide in the cylindrical housing and plug supporting means (60), which supports a plug (70) on condition of being drawn up to an advanced end in the valve sleeve by the movement of the slider. With this constitution, even when using a coupling device having a relatively-large diameter, it is possible to supply fluid stably. Further the plug supporting means is arranged in front of the forward end of the slider. Additionally, the plug supporting means is provided with an improper connection preventing mechanism (68, 69a to 69d, 77) for preventing other plugs, except for a specified plug from being connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Surpass Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masahiro Hasunuma
  • Patent number: 7854354
    Abstract: A docking station for use with a liquid container which supports the container in a convenient fixed location. The docking station is designed to accept a liquid container having a predetermined height and diameter. The docking station includes a cam operated actuator which is movable between an upper “open” position to a lower “closed” position. When the actuator is moved to its lower closed position, the actuator opens a valve in the liquid container to permit liquid to be drawn from the container. When the actuator is in its upper position, the valve in the container is closed. A manually controlled dispenser is mounted on the upper end of the docking station which is in communication with a source of water under pressure and the liquid being drawn from the container so as to mix the same and to dispense the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Inventor: Rodney Laible
  • Publication number: 20100269933
    Abstract: A fluid coupling includes a body defining a passageway, a valve member that is selectively movable between a closed position and an open position, and an interface at which the body is connectable to a complementary coupling. An interlock system is configured to permit movement of the valve member from the closed position to the open position when the complementary coupling is connected to the body at the interface, and to prevent movement of the valve member from the closed position to the open position when the complementary coupling is not connected to the body at the interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Applicant: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Gregory A. Haunhorst
  • Patent number: 7686037
    Abstract: A quick disconnect valve assembly includes first and second valve elements configured to releasably engage each other. Each valve element includes a housing that defines a valve seat and a fluid passageway. A plunger is disposed within each housing and arranged for selective engagement with a corresponding valve seat. Each plunger is biased into a sealing engagement with the valve seat by a resilient element disposed within the housing. Consequently, the fluid passageway of each valve element is closed off when the first and second valve elements are separated from each other. When the valve elements are engaged, the respective biases associated with the plungers counteract each other to the extent that each plunger is lifted off the corresponding valve seat and fluid communication is established between the respective fluid passageways of the first and second valve elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Hiltap Fittings, Ltd.
    Inventor: Lee A. Krywitsky
  • Patent number: 7669612
    Abstract: A male coupling member is provided that is selectively couplable to a first female coupling member (for 25 MPa, for example) and a second female coupling member (for 90 MPa), which handle different fluid pressures. When the male coupling member is coupled to the first female coupling member, a second O-ring that is provided for the second female coupling member is prevented from being displaced by the fluid supplied from the first female coupling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Nitto Kohki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Koji Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 7631783
    Abstract: A docking station for use with a liquid container which supports the container in a convenient fixed location. The docking station is designed to accept a liquid container having a predetermined height and diameter. The docking station includes a cam operated actuator which is movable between an upper “open” position to a lower “closed” position. When the actuator is moved to its lower closed position, the actuator opens a valve in the liquid container to permit liquid to be drawn from the container. When the actuator is in its upper position, the valve in the container is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventor: Rodney Laible
  • Publication number: 20090211655
    Abstract: A mounting assembly uses one hinge and one cam bolt mutually offset upon a two piece collar. A hopper tee has a member usually a vertical pipe and occasionally a horizontal pipe that connects to a hopper flange to receive bulk material. This assembly has two collars that mutually engage and surround a hopper flange. Pins pass through the collar pieces and the hopper flange then secure to tapped holes in the collar pieces to prevent rotation. A collar piece mounts a hook bolt and the other collar piece mounts a hinge in a spaced apart and offset manner. The other collar piece has a pivotal connection to a hinge arm and opposite the hinge arm, the hook bolt engages a cam. Opening the cam unfolds the tee downwardly while the hook bolt remains engaged. This partially open position allows for removal and installation of a valve. In opening and closing the assembly, the hinge arm spaces the flange below a hopper to admit a valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: DAVID E. SISK
  • Patent number: 7575029
    Abstract: A tool assembly includes a body supporting a rotatable nut which receives and mates with a bleeder valve threaded into a hydraulic fluid system such as a caliper wheel brake or a clutch for a motorcycle. The nut is sealed to the system, and the nut is rotated to move the bleeder valve to an open position while maintaining the seal between the nut and the fluid system. A passage within the body and the nut provides for evacuating the system and then charging fluid into the system. The nut is rotated to move the bleeder valve to its closed position, and the nut is then unclamped and unsealed from the fluid system. In one embodiment, the bleeder valve is gripped to clamp and seal the nut to the fluid system, and in another embodiment, the nut is sealed to the system using a clamping member opposing the nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Production Control Units, Inc.
    Inventor: Randy S. Robinson
  • Patent number: 7568502
    Abstract: A coupling (110) comprising a pair of female couplers (116) each independently movable within a respective housing bore (114) among an operating position, a release position, and a coupling position. When a female coupler (116) is moved to the coupling position, a stop member (136) moves the plunger of a pressure relief valve (124) to an open position to allow fluid to be released from the female coupler (116) prior to coupling a male coupler thereto. A cam member (126), which is used to move the respective female coupler (116) from the operating position to the release position, can move away from the plunger when the female coupler (116) is in the coupling position as the pressure relief valve (124) is held open by the stop member (136).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventor: Timothy T. Marquis
  • Patent number: 7533694
    Abstract: A fluid system component is provided that includes first and second elements configured to be removably engaged with each other and defining a fluid passageway when engaged. The first element defines three grooves, each of which includes a terminal portion. Correspondingly, the second element includes three engagement members each of which is configured and arranged to be received in, and travel along, a corresponding groove. The presence of a predetermined line pressure in the fluid passageway forces each engagement member into the terminal portion of the corresponding groove, so as to substantially foreclose disengagement of the first and second elements until the fluid pressure in the fluid passageway has reached a predetermined magnitude.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Hiltap Fittings, Ltd.
    Inventor: Lee A. Krywitsky
  • Patent number: 7527071
    Abstract: The aim is to devise a gas plug connector that permits a gas plug to be connected or disconnected only when an additional shut-off valve has been manually closed. To that end the housing (1) of the gas plug connector has a bearing (36) for a switching element (35) that on the one hand is fitted with a guide device (37), on which one end of a plunger (11; 12) installed in the base (2) of the housing (1) is supported, whereas the other end of the plunger (11: 12) is connected to a valve head (15) of a shut-off valve (8) positioned in the gas-carrying chamber (7) of the base (2). On the other hand, the switching element (35) is connected to a locking device, by means of which an insertion of the gas plug (57) dependent on the position of the switching element (35) can be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Mertik Maxitrol GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Günter Albrecht, Detlef Bayer, Thomas Vogt
  • Patent number: 7497231
    Abstract: A female coupling member is provided which includes locking members (32) for securing the female coupling member to a male coupling member (12) inserted into a receiving portion (22) thereof. The receiving portion has an inner surface (35-2) that slidingly engages a forward end outer surface (12-2) of the male member (12) when the male member is inserted into the receiving portion (22) and before it reaches a position where the male and female members are secured to one another by the locking members (32). The receiving portion further has a forward end inner surface (20-1(2)) that slidingly engages an outer surface (12-3) of the male member that is more rearward of the forward end outer surface (12-2) than the engaging portion (12-1) of the male member when the inward inner surface slidingly engages the forward end outer surface (12-2) of the male coupling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Nitto Kohki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takeya Sasa
  • Publication number: 20080236703
    Abstract: A system is provided for transferring fluids such as liquefied natural gas between a floating transport vessel and a floating storage vessel utilizing a transfer vessel to deploy, operate and return a fluid conduit to the storage vessel. The fluid is transferred through at least one submerged-subsea catenary flexible conduit, at least one floating flexible conduit, or any combination thereof. A transfer vessel, including a releasable mooring system, is provided for deploying the conduit from the storage vessel to the transport vessel, mooring with a transport vessel, maintaining a unified connection during fluid transfer, releasing the mooring once fluid transfer is completed, returning to and parking on the storage vessel, and storing the conduit between fluid transfers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: CHEVRON U.S.A. INC.
    Inventors: Jimmie Dean Adkins, John S. Hartono, David T. McDonald
  • Patent number: 7424897
    Abstract: The aim of the invention is to provide a simple and compact design as well as a safe operation of a connection coupling (10) for transferring gaseous and/or liquid fluids, particularly for filling vehicle fuel tanks, comprising an inlet area (12), which is provided with an inlet valve (45), connected to a supply line (12?) and to a ventilating line (12?), and which has a pressure compensation space (44) and a ventilating valve (35). To this end, the invention provides that the ventilating valve (35) is formed by a sealing disc (24) that can be displaced in a controlled manner up to and away from the inlet valve (45) in an axial direction of the connection coupling (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Inventors: Erwin Weh, Wolfgang Weh
  • Publication number: 20080128034
    Abstract: A coupler assembly wherein the coupler of the assembly has a locking mechanism mounted thereon for preventing a rotatable handle lever of the coupler from being rotated from a first locked position in which a projection of the handle lever is engaged with a stop surface of the coupler body to a second locked position in which the projection of the handle lever is engaged with a second stop surface of the coupler body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Applicant: DIXON VALVE AND COUPLING COMPANY
    Inventor: Richard L. Fahl
  • Patent number: 7306007
    Abstract: A pipe coupling is provided that facilitates an operation of opening or closing a ball valve and suppresses damage to a cylindrical seal member by the ball valve when rotated, thereby enabling an improvement in durability. A socket fluid passage (4) in a socket (1) is opened or closed with a ball valve (5). A cylindrical seal member (11) is disposed in a primary fluid passage portion (4a) of the socket fluid passage (4) in such a manner as to be in pressure contact with the ball valve (5) to seal between the ball valve (5) and the inner wall of the socket fluid passage (4). The ball valve (5) is rotatable to open when the socket (1) and a plug (2) are locked to each other by a lock mechanism (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Nitto Kohki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Koji Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 7225833
    Abstract: A fluid connector with adjustable flow control includes an adapter having a first threaded portion, a sealing surface and an orifice. The fluid connector also includes a valve body having a second threaded portion for engagement with the first threaded portion and a central body passage connected to at least one port. Upon rotation of the valve body relative to the adapter, the port is displaced axially relative to the sealing surface thereby effecting a change in fluid flow through the fluid connector and into or out of the orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: William C Marrison, Alexander P Webster
  • Patent number: 7185877
    Abstract: A quick-connect coupling for a gas line has a socket member for connection to a gas line and a nipple for connection to a gas appliance, the nipple being engageable in the socket member for coupling the gas line to the appliance, with a sleeve displaceable between a locking position for securing the nipple in the socket member and a released position in which the nipple is free to be uncoupled from the socket member. A locking member is displaceable along a path of movement into an extended position to retain the sleeve in the locking position. A control knob connected to the gas valve is rotatable for opening and closing the gas valve to control gas flow through the socket member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: Horst Budde
  • Patent number: 7147004
    Abstract: An apparatus discloses a cam lock fitting having a check valve which can be opened or closed inside the male or female end of the cam lock fitting so that when the check valve is closed the flow from either end of the cam lock fitting can be stopped by the check valve. The check valve may be located on the male end or the female end of the cam lock fitting. If the check valve is located on the female end it is operated by an arm connected to the lever of the cam lock fitting so that when the lever is opened the check valve is closed and vice versus. Furthermore, regarding the male end of the cam lock fitting, the check valve is normally maintained in the closed position and then when the male end is inserted into the female end, the check valve is opened by a rod member making contact with the facing of the female end of the cam lock fitting so that the check valve in the male cam lock fitting is then opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Inventor: Jeffrey Hartman
  • Patent number: 7117892
    Abstract: This disclosure is concerned with fluid system components. In one example, A quick disconnect valve assembly includes first and second valve elements configured to releasably engage each other. Each valve element includes a housing that defines a valve seat and a fluid passageway. A plunger is disposed within each housing and arranged for selective engagement with a corresponding valve seat. Each plunger is biased into a sealing engagement with the valve seat by a resilient element disposed within the housing. Consequently, the fluid passageway of each valve element is closed off when the first and second valve elements are separated from each other. When the valve elements are engaged, the respective biases associated with the plungers counteract each other to the extent that each plunger is lifted off the corresponding valve seat and fluid communication is established between the respective fluid passageways of the first and second valve elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Hiltap Fittings, Ltd.
    Inventor: Lee A. Krywitsky
  • Patent number: 7028711
    Abstract: A fluid coupling for connecting a hose to a port includes an internal body slidably supported in an external body bore of an external body. The internal body includes valve bore. A stem, located in the valve bore, includes first and second stem seals, and a stem bore in fluid communication with a hose fitting and an outer surface of the stem between the seals. The stem is movable between valve open and closed positions by moving a valve handle. A rotation limiting member coupled to the stem and slidably coupled to the external body limits the rotation of the stem. A locking sleeve coupled to the external body moves between a secure position and a release position. The locking sleeve interferes with the valve handle position when the locking sleeve is in the release position to prevent opening the valve when not connected to the port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Greg F. Scott
  • Patent number: 6981513
    Abstract: A fluid flow management system that includes a feedback system in communication with a fluid system component having discrete elements that, when joined together, define a joint and chamber. The fluid flow management system further includes a feedback fluid source in fluid communication with the chamber and with a pressure transducer. The feedback fluid source, transducer, and chamber collectively define a substantially closed system so that fluid introduced by the feedback fluid source eventually reaches static equilibrium. Separation of, or relative movement between, the discrete elements of the fluid system components permits fluid to escape the chamber, thereby causing a pressure change that is detected by the pressure transducer. The pressure transducer then generates and transmits a signal indicating a loss of joint integrity. The signal may be used to aid in the implementation of various actions concerning the system wherein the fluid system component is employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Hiltap Fittings, LTD
    Inventor: Lee A. Krywitsky
  • Patent number: 6945273
    Abstract: A dry break coupling assembly for interconnecting components of a fluid handling system. The coupling assembly includes first and second valves, each includes a rotatable valve element for opening and closing a fluid passageway within a valve body. The over-center clamp mechanism is for interlocking the first and the second valves when the valves are in a connected arrangement, allowing the valves to be easily disconnected when the valves are in a closed position, having a pair of projecting bars disposed on an outer surface of a body of a first valve and a pair of clamp assemblies disposed on a body of the second valve. Each clamp assembly includes a clamp arm having a hook end for engaging one of the projecting bars, and a clamp lever for actuating the hook end to engage or disengage the projecting bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Banjo Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron Reid
  • Patent number: 6913048
    Abstract: A device couples two storage and/or transport units with a security device. By alternately using a single actuating device, the security device and a pivoting device react in such a way that connecting branches of the units which are coupled are placed in a lock position by the security device and are firmly locked with respect to each other such that it is not possible to separate them. Closing valves in the connecting branches insure that the connecting branches are sealed from each other. By subsequently rotating the drive shaft, it is possible to open the closing valves using the pivoting device in order to enable a transfer process to occur. By rotating the drive shaft back, the closing valves are re-closed. Also by rotating the drive shaft, the connecting branches can be separated from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: GEA Buck Valve GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Koch, Bernd Elsässer
  • Patent number: 6860468
    Abstract: Flowable-material transfer apparatus and device for transferring flowable material from one containment vessel or system to another. The apparatus comprises a connector device, a closed conduit system, and applicable force systems and controls for effecting efficient flow of the flowable material. The connector device has a source-transfer-apparatus container connector and transfer-apparatus connector that together provide a flowpath from the source container to a destination container. The source-container connector contains a normally-closed flow valve situated in the flowpath and a flow-valve actuation assembly. The connector device includes a device locking mechanism that prevents the connector device from being disconnected when the flow valve is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Spill Free Oil Drainage Products, LLC
    Inventor: Claude Roger Morin
  • Patent number: 6837064
    Abstract: A service device connects to a service port of a pressurized system. The device includes a valve opening member for opening a valve within the port. The device can attach to a service unit for servicing the pressurized system. The system can be an air conditioning or refrigeration system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Prime Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Steven M. Knowles
  • Patent number: 6807979
    Abstract: A device and method are provided for coupling two storage and/or transport units with a cleaning device. In one cleaning position, either before or after a transfer process, an area is provided between two connecting branches and at least one part of front flaps of two closing valves and the connecting valves which is embodied as a cleaning chamber enclosed on all sides, and which can be sealed with respect to the outside atmosphere and product area. The cleaning space is protected against unintentional opening as a result of at least partial locking of the connecting branches with respect to each other. Cleaning occurs using the cleaning fluid without any danger of contamination be it from transfer product and/or the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: GEA Buck Valve GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Koch, Bernd Elsässer, Klaus Moeller
  • Publication number: 20040094211
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for coupling two storage and/or transport means with a cleaning device. In one cleaning position, either before or after a transfer process, an area is provided between two connecting branches (10, 100) and at least one part of the front surfaces (22, 122) of two closing valves (21, 121) in the connecting valves, i.e. the impact chamber, which is initially embodied as a cleaning chamber enclosed on all sides, which can be sealed in respect to the outside atmosphere and product area and which is, optionally, protected against unintentional opening as a result of at least partial locking of the connecting branches with respect to each other, whereby cleaning can occur using a cleaning fluid, without any danger of contamination, be it from the transfer product and/or the atmosphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventors: Martin Koch, Bernd Elsasser, Klaus Moeller
  • Patent number: 6679291
    Abstract: A poppet valve assembly is provided for use on a fuel tanker truck which enables the truck's driver to determine whether fuel is flowing through the valve assembly and whether fuel is present in the valve assembly. When a threshold flow rate through the valve assembly is reached, fluid flows inside a flow channel. The flow channel has a fluid indicator and a flow indicator therein mounted in a sight glass. When fluid is flowing in the flow channel both indicators rise. When fluid is present but not flowing in the flow channel only the fluid indicator rises. The fluid and flow indicators, being different colors, may be easily seen at a distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Exxon.Valve and Coupling Company
    Inventors: Richard L. Fahl, John T. Hill
  • Patent number: 6672327
    Abstract: A valve assembly with an automatic check valve feature and automatic disassembly feature. The valve assembly includes an actuating mechanism which keeps the valve gates open, establishing fluid communication. The fluid checking feature operates when the valve assembly is disassembled. When the valve assembly disassembles, the check valves automatically close. The valve assembly can be disassembled manually or automatically. The automatic disassembly feature includes a collar and breakable link assembly, which keep the valve assembly in sealing engagement. Upon a predetermined force, the breakable link assembly fails, releasing the collar from the valve assembly and effecting disassembly of the valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Hiltap Fittings, Ltd.
    Inventor: Lee A Krywitsky
  • Patent number: 6651483
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for monitoring the fluidic contents of a tank. The tank includes a quick disconnect valve and an assembly includes a monitor device, such as, for example, a gas density monitor, a pressure monitor, a temperature monitor, etc., and a quick disconnect fitting. The monitor device is coupled to the quick disconnect fitting. The quick disconnect fitting is adapted to couple to the quick disconnect valve such that the interior of the quick disconnect fitting is in fluidic communication with the interior of the monitor device for reducing the chance of leakage upon connection/disconnection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: ABB Technology AG
    Inventors: Jeffry R. Meyer, Willie B. Freeman, Caroline Komlenic
  • Patent number: 6644331
    Abstract: When supplying pressurized oil from a first port (51) to a second port (78), first, a pallet (2) is lowered to a table (1). And a first stop member (45) of a socket (21) is brought into butting contact with a second stop member (67) of a plug (22), thereby forming a contact gap (B) between the second stop member (67) and a check member (72) within a check valve chamber (70) of the plug (22). Next, the pallet (2) is fixed to the table (1) by a locking device (3). Subsequently, the pressurized oil at the first port (51) is supplied to the second port (78) via the check valve chamber (70) and thereafter is discharged to an exterior area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Kosmek
    Inventor: Akira Arisato
  • Patent number: 6637460
    Abstract: A service coupling for use with either a push-type or a screw-type port valve of a charge port is provided that includes a body portion and an axially moveable valve housing. Axial movement of an actuator permits both the selective axial movement of the valve housing from a rearward position toward a forward position and the selective disengagement of the port valve to open a flow path. In one embodiment the actuator has a nose portion that engages a threaded port valve, or axially moves a push-pin valve, to open a flow path. The operation is the same with either type of type of valve such that the user in not required to know which type of valve is present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Gregory A. Haunhorst
  • Publication number: 20030066564
    Abstract: When supplying pressurized oil from a first port (51) to a second port (78), first, a pallet (2) is lowered to a table (1). And a first stop member (45) of a socket (21) is brought into butting contact with a second stop member (67) of a plug (22), thereby forming a contact gap (B) between the second stop member (67) and a check member (72) within a check valve chamber (70) of the plug (22). Next, the pallet (2) is fixed to the table (1) by a locking device (3). Subsequently, the pressurized oil at the first port (51) is supplied to the second port (78) via the check valve chamber (70) and thereafter is discharged to an exterior area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA KOSMEK
    Inventor: Akira Arisato
  • Patent number: 6523863
    Abstract: Provided is a coupling for fluid pipes, comprising a plug and a socket. The socket includes a socket body, a sleeve slidably fitted on the outer peripheral surface of the socket body and urged toward the distal end thereof, and a plurality of locking members provided on the socket body and capable of being engaged with and disengaged from an outer peripheral groove by means of the sleeve. The pipe coupling further comprises a pair of end faces provided individually on the plug and the socket and adapted to abut against each other when the plug and the socket are joined, and a shaped packing provided on one of the coupling end faces and adapted to prevent admission of external air when the coupling end faces abut against each other and to prevent the fluid from leaking out when the coupling end faces are separated from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Nitto Kohki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazutami Ishiwata
  • Patent number: 6453945
    Abstract: A coupling for several hydraulic pipes has a number of single couplings which have a first coupling member (2) and a second coupling member (4). The first coupling member (2) includes a first valve (8) and a first cylindrical face (16). The cylindrical face starts from the first front face (7). An actuating element moves the first valve (8) into an open position. A sealing sleeve (17) is adjustable on the first cylindrical face (16) in the direction of a longitudinal axis (x). The sleeve (17) is displaceable by the actuating element from a retracted position, beyond the first front face (7), into a partly projected position. A second coupling member (4) has a second valve (27) and a second cylindrical face (31). The second cylindrical face (31) is at least partly covered by the sealing sleeve (17) in the projected position. The first coupling member (2) is attached to a first block housing (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventors: Gustav Schumacher, Friedrich-Wilhelm Schumacher
  • Patent number: 6408880
    Abstract: A plug-in coupling (K) for connecting pipelines, tubes or the like, having a valve body (2) which is disposed in one of the two coupling parts (I, II) and can be actuated from the outside, in particular by a hand lever (1), and having a locking sleeve (9) which can be displaced from a locking position, in which the plugged-together position of the two coupling parts (I, II) is secured by spring loading, into a release position, and having a further valve body (7), which is disposed in the other coupling part (II), and, in order to achieve an operationally favorable/reliability solution, the invention proposes in the plugged-together position, the one valve body (2) brings about primarily opening of the other valve body (7) at the periphery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Carl Kurt Walther GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Kaul
  • Patent number: RE42552
    Abstract: A dry break coupling assembly for interconnecting components of a fluid handling system. The coupling assembly includes first and second valves, each includes a rotatable valve element for opening and closing a fluid passageway within a valve body. The over-center clamp mechanism is for interlocking the first and the second valves when the valves are in a connected arrangement, allowing the valves to be easily disconnected when the valves are in a closed position, having a pair of projecting bars disposed on an outer surface of a body of a first valve and a pair of clamp assemblies disposed on a body of the second valve. Each clamp assembly includes a clamp arm having a hook end for engaging one of the projecting bars, and a clamp lever for actuating the hook end to engage or disengage the projecting bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Banjo Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron Reid