Programmer Or Timer Patents (Class 137/624.11)
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Patent number: 6775593Abstract: A combination utility controller and service panel having an outer overall enclosure with a lockable door for limiting access thereto to authorized persons. Within the overall enclosure are two sub-regions that are separated from each other by gas-tight paneling. One of these sub-regions (i.e., a service region) contains at least one electrically-operated (e.g., solenoid-operated) valve that is serially connected within service utilities (e.g., water or gas) piping so as to control flow therethrough. The other sub-region (i.e., a utility controller region) contains electrical controls for controlling the valve(s) and communicating with other services such as an auxiliary monitoring system (e.g., a fire alarm system).Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2000Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Inventors: Philip A. Parker, Tom S. Dunn
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Patent number: 6769443Abstract: A control system is provided having a flow valve, a control valve for controlling flow through the flow valve, a logic circuit for receiving, processing, and transmitting data signals; a central control unit for receiving, processing, and transmitting data signals; and a flow valve actuator. When the flow valve actuator is actuated, the central control unit informs the logic circuit to permit the control valve to allow flow through the flow valve. However, if during a set time period, the flow valve actuator is actuated too often, subsequent actuation is disallowed for a second time period. Also, if during a shut down, subsequent actuation is disallowed. During the second time period or the shut down, any successive actuation is recorded by the central control unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2002Date of Patent: August 3, 2004Assignee: I-CON Systems, Inc.Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
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Publication number: 20040144432Abstract: The tile flow regulator disclosed is used for regulating the level of water in the fields of an agricultural operation according to seasonal needs by a mechanism for adjusting the outflow of water from the tile line. The regulator includes a housing through which water from the tile line is directed and in which a partition with at least one aperture is positioned. At least one vertically movable gate is associated each aperture and with a motor, an electric cylinder, and at least one actuator bar such that, upon actuation of the motor, the gate moves to either open or close the aperture. If two apertures are included, the regulator can be fully open (both apertures open), fully closed (both apertures closed), or partially open (bottom aperture open, top one closed) to achieve the desired moisture level. Dates on which the gates will be moved can be pre-selected by remote signaling.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2004Publication date: July 29, 2004Inventors: Charlie J. Schafer, Leo E. Beebout, William Littler
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Patent number: 6766221Abstract: A two-wire controlling and monitoring system for in particular irrigation of localized areas of soil according to a aspect of the invention comprises a water pipeline, a first plurality of controllable irrigation valves, a second plurality of field sensors measuring specific irrigation parameters, and a third plurality of localized irrigation control units. The third plurality of localized irrigation control units each comprises a sensor decoder connected to a specific field sensor of the second plurality of field sensors and/or a line decoder connected to a specific controllable irrigation valve of the first plurality of controllable irrigation valves. The two-wire controlling and monitoring system further comprises a controller and power supply unit having a set of schedules of instructions and supplying power by applying a first alternating DC voltage signal to a two-wire cable interconnecting the controller and power supply unit and the third plurality of localized irrigation control units.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2000Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Inventor: Tom Nøhr Christiansen
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Publication number: 20040134545Abstract: A method and system for controlling a household water supply incorporating motion-sensing for determining whether a house is occupied, provides protection of structures and fixtures from water damage due to plumbing failure or other causes. The household water supply is shut-off in conformity with a determination that the household is unoccupied and thereby provides automatic protection from water damage.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2003Publication date: July 15, 2004Inventor: Michael Brent Ford
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Patent number: 6757589Abstract: A utility controller and a service panel combination for limiting access to authorized persons. A sub-region of the service panel contains at least one electrically-operated (e.g., solenoid-operated) valve that is connected to service utilities (e.g., water or gas) piping so as to control flow there-through. Another sub-region (i.e., a utility controller region) contains electrical controls for controlling the valve(s) and communicating with other services such as a remote transmitter, or an auxiliary monitoring system (e.g., a fire alarm system). The controller facilitates provision of numerous features including: emergency shutdown by anyone while permitting reset only by authorized personnel; modular construction so as to facilitate installation of the system. Various jumper terminals and connecting wires provide for programming of the system to accommodate a variety of applications.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Inventors: Phil A. Parker, Tom S. Dunn
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Patent number: 6755213Abstract: A timing switch includes a control valve, a timing device, and a flow control device. In practice, the drive shaft is pressed by the press plate at the opened state and is pressed by the elastic member at the closed state, so that the drive shaft is operated exactly to prevent from incurring leakage, thereby enhancing the safety of the timing switch of the gas stove. Thus, the timing switch can form an actual locking state when not in use, thereby providing a safety effect exactly.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2003Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Inventor: Jih-Ching Lai
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Patent number: 6752165Abstract: A system and method for monitoring and control operation of a rotary disk refiner. The method regulates refiner operation in response to a process variable preferably in relation to a setpoint. The variable can be temperature, pressure, and/or stock consistency, refiner energy, or a variable based thereon. Volumetric flow rate of stock and/or the flow rate of dilution water can be regulated. Based on a refiner temperature, pressure, and/or stock consistency, refiner energy, or a variable based thereon, the flow rate of stock and/or dilution water can be regulated. Where temperature is used, it preferably can be a temperature inside the refiner or adjacent the inlet or outlet. Where pressure is used, it preferably can be a pressure inside the refiner or adjacent the inlet or outlet. Stock consistency can be determined using a sensor upstream or downstream of the refiner or using a sensed parameter in the refiner.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2001Date of Patent: June 22, 2004Assignee: J & L Fiber Services, Inc.Inventor: Ola M. Johansson
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Patent number: 6733276Abstract: A gas shut-off device is provided to automatically cut off gas supply to a gas appliance, such as an outdoor gas fueled barbecue grill, at the expiration of a predetermined time period thereby saving gas and preventing hazards usually associated with a grill that has been left on after use. The gas shut-off device of the present invention is tamper resistant thereby-reducing the risk of a child inadvertently directing gas to an unlit appliance.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2003Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Inventor: Jeffrey R. Kopping
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Patent number: 6719010Abstract: A modular, multifunctional water valve controller has a first housing and a second housing drawably assembled to each other. The first housing defines a batter room, and receives a driver and a valve of a control circuit therein. A water path is defined at a bottom of the first housing. The water path has an input tie-in at an end thereof, an output tie-in at an opposite end thereof, and a spherical valve on a center thereof. A motor of the driver drives decelerating gears to control start-up or stop of the spherical valve. The control circuit includes a microprocessor, a plurality of operation keys, and three types of modules in the microprocessor. The modules have interval modules, watering modules and action modules. In use, the watering time and interval time or immediate time is predetermined via operation keys and is shown by an LED module. The water valve controller of the present invention has simple type, professional type and system type.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2003Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Inventor: Chiang Yi-Chang
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Patent number: 6715508Abstract: The tile flow regulator disclosed is used for regulating the level of water in the fields of an agricultural operation according to seasonal needs by a mechanism for adjusting the outflow of water from the tile line. The regulator includes a housing through which water from the tile line is directed and in which a partition with at least one aperture is positioned. At least one vertically movable gate is associated each aperture and with a motor and gear assembly such that, upon actuation of the motor by a 12-month calendar, said gate(s) move to either open or close the aperture. If two apertures are included, the regulator can be fully open (both apertures open), fully closed (both apertures closed), or partially open (bottom aperture open, top one closed) to achieve the desired moisture level.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2002Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Assignee: Agri Drain CorporationInventors: Charlie J. Schafer, Leo E. Beebout, William Littler, IV
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Patent number: 6708722Abstract: An adjustable timing system controlled by a water meter indicator activates an electric shut-off valve at a main water supply to a building or apartment unit if a continuous flow of water exceeds the time setting. The timing system may optionally be set to a full open condition bypassing the timing function and allowing unrestricted water flow or an off condition preventing any water flow. The timing system is reset to begin anew timing the continuous flow of water each time that flow ceases and may be manually reset after a continuous flow of water has exceeded the time setting or a power interruption has disabled the water flow.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2002Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Inventor: Robert A Goodenough
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Publication number: 20040035474Abstract: A multi-port rotary disc valve comprising a stator with a plurality of fluid flow ports and a rotary distributor with a plurality of channels arranged in a channel pattern. The channels are adapted to connect the ports between them and/or to the environment in a plurality of predetermined combinations, each combination being associated with an angular position of the rotary distributor with respect to the stator. The succession of combinations performed during a full or partial unidirectional turn of the rotary distributor constitute a predetermined sequence. The rotary distributor comprises a rotor and a mask mounted movably thereon, the rotor and the mask accommodating the plurality of channels. The mask is adapted to change the channel pattern by changing its position with respect to the rotor, thereby enabling the rotary disc valve to perform different predetermined sequences corresponding to different positions of the mask.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2002Publication date: February 26, 2004Applicant: Mego Afek Industrial Measuring InstrumentsInventor: Aharon Weiss
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Patent number: 6691724Abstract: A method and system for controlling a household water supply provides protection of structures and fixtures from water damage due to plumbing failure or other causes. The household water supply is shut-off in conformity with a determination that the household is unoccupied and thereby provides automatic protection from water damage.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Michael Brent Ford
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Patent number: 6694223Abstract: A simple single- or multi-station sprinkler controller is set to various run times and watering intervals by the repetitive operation of pushbuttons or combinations of pushbuttons. The chosen settings are communicated to the operator by illumination patterns of LEDs. The patterns may include groups of flashes, sequential scrolling of LEDs, multicolored illumination of an LED, and steady illumination or non-illumination of selected LEDs. If a short occurs in a station, the controller shuts itself off and flashes a pattern that signals a shorted condition and identifies the shorted station. On power-up, run times and intervals are automatically set to generally-usefll default values.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: The Toro CompanyInventors: Allan Morris Goldberg, Larry Kent Hopkins
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Patent number: 6694195Abstract: Remote diagnosis of an irrigation controller is made possible by encoding the settings of the controller into a numeric or alphanumeric code, displaying that code on the controller, transmitting the code to a remote interpretive computer, generating at that computer a chart derived from the code to show all of the settings of the controller, evaluating the significance of the settings to the functioning of the controller, and advising the operator of the controller on the basis of the chart.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: The Turo CompanyInventor: Richard J. Garcia
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Patent number: 6688329Abstract: A water feeder controller for a boiler monitors a low water cutoff sensor in a boiler and uses a feed timer to feed water to the boiler for a predetermined feed period of time. The feed timer brings the water level in the boiler well above the low water cutoff sensor. The feed timer supplies water to the boiler only if the low water cutoff sensor continues to indicate a low water level for a delay period of time measured by a delay timer. A resettable display indicates the quantity of water supplied by the water feeder to the boiler based on a feed counter incremented during water feeding. A manual feed button allows water to be manually fed to the boiler. The quantity of water manually supplied to the boiler is also shown on the display. The feed timer and delay timer are preferably implemented in software in a microcontroller in the water feeder controller. A lockout loop in the software prevents overfeeding of water to the boiler in the event of a failure of the low water cutoff sensor.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2001Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Assignee: C. Cowles & CompanyInventors: Christopher L. Murray, Richard A. Lyons
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Patent number: 6675795Abstract: A freeze resistant method for draining liquid condensate from a condensate furnace includes quickly purging the liquid condensate from a condensate reservoir. A condensing heat exchanger connected to a condensing reservoir stores liquid condensate as the system is in use. An inducer produces a positive pressure along a condensate line to the outlet of the reservoir, creating a back pressure which prevents draining of the reservoir. When the inducer is shut off, the positive pressure is removed, and the liquid condensate rapidly flushes from the reservoir. The amount of liquid condensate remaining in the system and exposed to cold conditions can be minimized.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2001Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: Carrier CorporationInventors: Brian David Videto, Robert Henry Swieczkowski
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Patent number: 6672335Abstract: An automated dump sand separator control system for controlling a three-way pneumatic dump valve of a well sand separator. The system controls a three-way pneumatic dump valve which is attached to a sand separator for dumping material from a well pumping system. A first timer is used for controlling the time intervals between dumping cycles. A second timer is connected to the first timer and controls the time duration for each cycle. The first timer activates the second timer. Each cycle opens and closes the pneumatic normally closed two-way valve by a three-way solenoid valve. The first and second timer are powered by a rechargeable battery that is kept charged by a solar panel that has a shunt regulator for dropping the voltage from the solar panel. The solar panel is mounted on a vertical support member through a pair of adjustable support arms for adjusting the angle of solar panel to the sun.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Kyle N. Welborn
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Publication number: 20030226599Abstract: The tile flow regulator disclosed is used for regulating the level of water in the fields of an agricultural operation according to seasonal needs by a mechanism for adjusting the outflow of water from the tile line. The regulator includes a housing through which water from the tile line is directed and in which a partition with at least one aperture is positioned. At least one vertically movable gate is associated each aperture and with a motor and gear assembly such that, upon actuation of the motor by a 12-month calendar, said gate(s) move to either open or close the aperture. If two apertures are included, the regulator can be fully open (both apertures open), fully closed (both apertures closed), or partially open (bottom aperture open, top one closed) to achieve the desired moisture level.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Charlie J. Schafer, Leo E. Beebout, William Littler
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Publication number: 20030221732Abstract: A dockside water shutoff system for a boat which includes a shutoff valve connected on an inlet end thereof to a fresh water supply. A conduit is connected to an outlet end of the shutoff valve for transferring water from the water supply to a plumbing system on a boat. A timer mechanism is operatively connected to the shutoff valve. The timer mechanism is configured to cause the shutoff valve to close after a predetermined period of time.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2003Publication date: December 4, 2003Inventor: Robert P. Winter
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Publication number: 20030201018Abstract: A control system is provided having a flow valve, a control valve for controlling flow through the flow valve, a logic circuit for receiving, processing, and transmitting data signals; a central control unit for receiving, processing, and transmitting data signals; and a flow valve actuator. When the flow valve actuator is actuated, the central control unit informs the logic circuit to permit the control valve to allow flow through the flow valve. However, if during a set time period, the flow valve actuator is actuated too often, subsequent actuation is disallowed for a second time period. Also, if during a shut down, subsequent actuation is disallowed. During the second time period or the shut down, any successive actuation is recorded by the central control unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2002Publication date: October 30, 2003Applicant: I-CON Systems, Inc.Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
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Publication number: 20030178070Abstract: A Peak Demand Fresh Water Flow Controller For The Conservation of Water that can be directly and remotely controlled via the transmission of a signal as initiated in by a Utility for the express purpose of reducing or stopping the flow of water at the consumers' homes or buildings during times of water supply shortage or excess consumer demand.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2002Publication date: September 25, 2003Inventor: Lisa Ann Glicken
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Patent number: 6619320Abstract: An electronic faucet has a housing adapted to seat against a support surface and defining an internal barrel having a bottom wall, a side wall and an open top. There is at least one fluid inlet extending through the bottom wall into the barrel, a fluid outlet in the side wall of the barrel, and a valve cartridge seated in the barrel. The cartridge includes a main valve for controlling fluid flow between the at least one inlet and the outlet, a pilot valve and a solenoid operator for opening and closing the pilot valve. A faucet head removably mounted to the housing covers the open top of the barrel, the faucet head including an activator which produces an output signal of a selected duration when approached by a user, and a control circuit which responds to the signal by activating the solenoid operator so as to open the pilot valve which thereupon opens the main valve.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2001Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Assignee: Arichell Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Natan E. Parsons
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Patent number: 6612323Abstract: A safety valve is provided for an appliance having an electrically operated water inlet valve for receiving water used during operation of the appliance. A valve body is connected to the water supply upstream of the inlet valve, the valve body having a flow path for allowing water to flow through the valve body to the inlet valve. An electrically operated solenoid is connected to a valve gate, the valve gate being movably carried within the valve body and movable between a closed position and an open position that allows water to flow through the flow path. A portion of an electrical current from an appliance control system to the inlet valve for opening the inlet valve is conducted to the solenoid for moving the gate to the open position. The gate is spring biased to the closed position for returning the gate to the closed position when the current ceases to flow.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2002Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Assignee: Curio Ltd.Inventor: Gregory L. Horne
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Patent number: 6595229Abstract: A valve consisting of a motor that rotates a cylinder to perform various functions in controlling liquid flow. The operation being controlled by a cam operated switch to start and stop cylinder in the various cycles.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2001Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Inventors: Edward Joseph Tischler, Brian Joseph Tischler
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Patent number: 6596159Abstract: A regeneration valve 131 is adapted for automatic activation of ion exchange resin in a water softener. The regeneration valve includes a switching valve 1, a control valve 32, a water injection valve 54, a cam mechanism (FIG. 13) and a timer mechanism which are compactly integrated in a single valve assembly. The timer mechanism includes a timer motor 80 provided with a switching gear adapted to be switched between 50 Hz and 60 Hz (FIGS. 16, 17). The ion exchange resin layer within the resin reservoir 2 can be uniformly activated so that the regeneration process can be achieved at a high efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2001Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: Maruyama Mfg. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shigeru Maruyama, Yoshisada Furukawa
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Patent number: 6589350Abstract: An apparatus for and a method of introducing a gas into a vacuum processing chamber are provided. In one aspect, a processing apparatus is provided that includes a vacuum processing chamber, a first source of gas coupled to the vacuum processing chamber, and a fluid actuated valve for regulating the flow of the gas from the first source of gas to the vacuum processing chamber. The fluid actuated valve is operable to open in response to a flow of an actuating fluid and has a minimum valve opening pressure. A valve is provided for enabling the actuating fluid to flow to the fluid actuated valve. A controller is provided for selectively modulating the flow of the actuating fluid to the fluid actuated valve whereby the pressure of the actuating fluid is increased incrementally from an initial pressure to at least the minimum valve opening pressure. The apparatus reduces the risk of troublesome gas bursts in vacuum processing chambers.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2000Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.Inventor: Dennis C. Swartz
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Publication number: 20030102037Abstract: An electronic faucet has a housing adapted to seat against a support surface and defining an internal barrel having a bottom wall, a side wall and an open top. There is at least one fluid inlet extending through the bottom wall into the barrel, a fluid outlet in the side wall of the barrel, and a valve cartridge seated in the barrel. The cartridge includes a main valve for controlling fluid flow between the at least one inlet and the outlet, a pilot valve and a solenoid operator for opening and closing the pilot valve. A faucet head removably mounted to the housing covers the open top of the barrel, the faucet head including an activator which produces an output signal of a selected duration when approached by a user, and a control circuit which responds to the signal by activating the solenoid operator so as to open the pilot valve which thereupon opens the main valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 4, 2001Publication date: June 5, 2003Inventor: Natan E. Parsons
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Publication number: 20030084943Abstract: A valve consisting of a motor that rotates a cylinder to perform various functions in controlling liquid flow. The operation being controlled by a cam operated switch to start and stop cylinder in the various cycles.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2001Publication date: May 8, 2003Inventors: Edward Joseph Tischler, Brian Joseph Tischler
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Patent number: 6543479Abstract: A water monitoring and control system adapted for residential and commercial use automatically shuts off the water supply after a predetermined period of time, whether the flow is intentional or unintentional, thereby preventing damage from leaks and other malfunctions. The system also gives an indication of all water flow ranging from normal usage to leakage of a few drops and large flow, as would typically occur due to a break in the plumbing system. The system is easily bypassed in the event of power outages. In terms of hardware, the main components of the system include a normally closed water shut-off valve, preferably solenoid-operated. A pressure-responsive switch senses changes in water pressure and sends a signal in the event of a pressure drop, and a timer is provided to start a timing cycle when there is a demand for water, either intentional or unintentional, and shut-off the flow after a predetermined period of time selected by the user.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2002Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Assignee: Flood Knot, Inc.Inventors: John B. Coffey, Walter G. Kaiser
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Patent number: 6532979Abstract: A residential water supply interruption system generally comprises a remotely controllable shut-off valve and a controller in communication with the remotely controllable shutoff valve. The remotely controllable shutoff valve is interposed a water line from a water main to the living quarters portion of a residential building, such that activation of the shutoff valve operates to prevent flow of water from the water main to the living quarters. In this manner, damage to the living quarters from failure of water pipes running through the living quarters is prevented during times that the shutoff valve is activated.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2001Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Inventor: Kris Richter
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Patent number: 6507775Abstract: An irrigation timer (2) includes a controller (8) coupleable to a power source (16), user inputs (12) coupled to the controller, controller output terminals (18) coupleable to an irrigation valve actuator (20) and an internal day-of-week and time-of-day clock. The controller may be pre-programmed with a predetermined, known initialization day-of-week and start time-of-day setting so that upon actuation, the clock automatically begins running at that setting, such as Sunday, 6:00 PM. The user inputs may have a single, preset function so that no user input is a multifunction input to help make programming essentially intuitive.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 1999Date of Patent: January 14, 2003Assignee: Tim Simon, Inc.Inventors: Timothy M. Simon, Blaine M. Smith
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Patent number: 6491062Abstract: A remotely controlled water line shut off system having particular utility as a convenient means to avoid internal water damage to a dwelling, or to the excessive use of water through a sprinkler system, where the dwelling is not occupied continuously, such as a summer rental. System includes a housing or enclosure mounted between a water intake and water discharge lines, where the housing includes a water meter, a water cut off valve, a preset quantity control metering mechanism, a solid state radio transceiver, and an electrical power source, where controlling thereof may be by wireless communication with the solid state radio transceiver.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2002Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Inventor: Thomas Croft
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Patent number: 6490505Abstract: An irrigation timer (2) includes a controller (8), including output signal terminals (18) coupleable to irrigation valve actuators (20) and an internal clock, and user inputs (12). Each irrigation valve actuator is coupleable to an irrigation valve for a watering zone with a watering period setting for each of the watering zones during a watering cycle (96). The controller divides the watering period for each watering zone by an integer n greater than 1 to obtain fractional watering periods (98). This permits each zone to be watered for its fractional watering period during a first fractional watering cycle (100) prior to beginning a second fractional watering cycle n of the fractional watering cycles constitute the watering cycle. The use of fractional watering periods help to spread out watering over a long period of time in each zone.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 1999Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: Tim Simon, Inc.Inventors: Timothy M. Simon, Blaine M. Smith
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Publication number: 20020148515Abstract: A water monitoring and control system adapted for residential and commercial use automatically shuts off the water supply after a predetermined period of time, whether the flow is intentional or unintentional, thereby preventing damage from leaks and other malfunctions. The system also gives an indication of all water flow ranging from normal usage to leakage of a few drops and large flow, as would typically occur due to a break in the plumbing system. The system is easily bypassed in the event of power outages. In terms of hardware, the main components of the system include a normally closed water shut-off valve, preferably solenoid-operated. A pressure-responsive switch senses changes in water pressure and sends a signal in the event of a pressure drop, and a timer is provided to start a timing cycle when there is a demand for water, either intentional or unintentional, and shut-off the flow after a predetermined period of time selected by the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2002Publication date: October 17, 2002Inventors: John B. Coffey, Walter G. Kaiser
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Patent number: 6453215Abstract: An irrigation controller in one embodiment comprising a microprocessor for controlling a plurality of watering zones of an irrigation system, a keyboard for enabling an inputting of commands relating to watering programs, a display for displaying information relating to watering programs, and an EEPROM for retaining information relating to watering programs and an on/off status variable even during extended periods without power. The irrigation controller may employ the EEPROM to retain a germinate watering program wherein everyday watering is triggered automatically and a multiplicity of watering start times can be selected. The irrigation controller may employ an analog precision rectifier for detecting how many valves are operational in a given watering zone, and the irrigation controller may also automatically adjust a maximum allowable current in response to how many valves are operational in a given watering zone.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 1999Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Inventor: Nathan Lavoie
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Patent number: 6425415Abstract: Device (10) to deliver and mix water for taps (12) said device comprising a mixer cartridge (30), able to be arranged inside the monoblock (11) of said tap (12), means to regulate the mixing of the water and actuation means arranged above said monoblock (11), able to determine the opening and closing of the flow of water, said actuation means being commanded electrically and comprising an interception element (20) able to cooperate with of said mixer cartridge (30).Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2001Date of Patent: July 30, 2002Assignee: Nuova Galatron SrlInventors: Mauro Lorenzelli, Gabriele Sarasini
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Patent number: 6422264Abstract: A fluid supply apparatus with a plurality of flow lines branching out from one pressure regulator with the flow lines arranged in parallel and constructed so that opening or closing one flow passage will have no transient effect on the steady flow of the other flow passages. Each flow passage is provided with a time delay-type mass flow controller MFC so that when one closed fluid passage is opened, the mass flow controller on that flow passage reaches a set flow rate Qs in a specific delay time &Dgr;t from the starting point. The invention includes a method and an apparatus in which a plurality of gas types can be controlled in flow rate with high precision by one pressure-type flow control system.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2000Date of Patent: July 23, 2002Assignees: Fujikin Incorporated, OHMI, Tadahiro, Tokyo Electron Ltd.Inventors: Tadahiro Ohmi, Satoshi Kagatsume, Kazuhiko Sugiyama, Yukio Minami, Kouji Nishino, Ryousuke Dohi, Katsunori Yonehana, Nobukazu Ikeda, Michio Yamaji, Jun Hirose, Kazuo Fukazawa, Hiroshi Koizumi, Hideki Nagaoka, Akihiro Morimoto, Tomio Uno, Eiji Ideta, Atsushi Matsumoto, Toyomi Uenoyama, Takashi Hirose
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Patent number: 6408881Abstract: A device (10) to deliver and mix water for taps (12), the device includes a mixer cartridge (30), arranged inside a monoblock (11) of the tap (12). A handle (45) regulates the mixing of the water. An actuation device is arranged above the monoblock (11). The actuator device is able to determine the opening and closing of the flow of water, with the actuation device being commanded electrically and including a membrane (20) able to cooperate with the mixer cartridge (30).Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2001Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Assignee: Nuova Galatron SrlInventors: Mauro Lorenzelli, Gabriele Sarasini
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Patent number: 6405744Abstract: A computer controlled auxiliary fuel tank system provides one or more additional fuel sources as either original equipment with new vehicles, or as an aftermarket addition to an older vehicle. The auxiliary system monitors and controls the on-board testing of each main fuel system, and their associated fuel displays, whether or not the vehicle includes a main fuel computer system. On-board testing is compliant with California Air Resources Board, On Board Diagnostics II, and with the Environmental Protection Agency On Board Diagnostics II) requirements. The auxiliary fuel system comprises an auxiliary fuel tank, having an auxiliary fuel pump, a sending unit, check valves, inlet and outlet fuel lines, a wiring harness, a computer module, an auxiliary emissions canister assembly, vehicle installation means, and LCD and LED display devices. Fuel levels in each tank are read, compared and balanced once every 4 seconds.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2001Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Inventor: Todd LaPant
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Patent number: 6405745Abstract: An ultra accurate gas injection system includes an input device for inputting setpoint data including a target flow rate for the flow of gas into the system. The gas flows through a mass flow controller at an actual flow rate. The mass flow controller issues a flow rate signal indicative of at least the actual flow rate and receives a flow control signal. The mass flow controller is configured to control the actual flow rate dependent at least in part upon the flow control signal. A programmable controller is electrically connected to the input device and the mass flow controller. The programmable controller receives the setpoint data from the input device and issues the flow control signal, the flow control signal being dependent at least in part upon the target flow rate contained within the setpoint data. The programmable controller repeatedly reads the flow rate signal and compares the actual flow rate with the target flow rate.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2000Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Krishnendu Kar, Robert Semidey
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Patent number: 6394119Abstract: A method of conserving a facility delivered to a machine during the machine's idle mode is herein described. In one embodiment, the method is directed to a method for conserving coolant water delivery to a semiconductor wafer grinding machine. The system monitors the status of the grinder to determine whether the grinder is active or idle. After the system determines the grinder has entered idle mode, the system reduces the flow of water to the machine. In one embodiment, the flow is simply reduced while, in another embodiment, the flow is terminated. A delay circuit in the system may delay the reduction of the flow rate until some point after entering idle mode. Periodically throughout the idle mode, the system increases the flow of coolant water to the grinder to ensure the temperature of all grinder components remains consistent. The duty cycle of the coolant flow may be adjusted to optimize water conservation and machine readiness.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2001Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventor: Michael B. Ball
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Patent number: 6363968Abstract: A method of conserving a facility delivered to a machine during the machine's idle mode is herein described. In one embodiment, the method is directed to a method for conserving coolant water delivery to a semiconductor wafer grinding machine. The system monitors the status of the grinder to determine whether the grinder is active or idle. After the system determines the grinder has entered idle mode, the system reduces the flow of water to the machine. In one embodiment, the flow is simply reduced while, in another embodiment, the flow is terminated. A delay circuit in the system may delay the reduction of the flow rate until some point after entering idle mode. Periodically throughout the idle mode, the system increases the flow of coolant water to the grinder to ensure the temperature of all grinder components remains consistent. The duty cycle of the coolant flow may be adjusted to optimize water conservation and machine readiness.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2001Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventor: Michael B. Ball
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Patent number: 6360762Abstract: An apparatus for feeding gases for use in semiconductor manufacturing reduced in size and manufacturing costs and facilitating maintenance and operation of the gas supply system. The apparatus comprises a plurality of gas supply sources, gas source valves provided on the gas lead-out pipes from the respective gas supply sources, flow rate controllers provided on main gas feed pipes into which the lead-out pipes converge, and gas supply valves provided on the outlet side of the flow rate controllers.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2001Date of Patent: March 26, 2002Assignees: Fujikin Incorporated, Tokyo Electron Ltd.Inventors: Hirofumi Kitayama, Yoichi Kurono, Nobukazu Ikeda, Naoya Masuda
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Patent number: 6354172Abstract: A mechanical timer to control multiple steps of a process comprising a first cam having a shaft, and a second cam having a shaft, wherein the shaft on the first cam extends into the shaft of the second cam. The rotational relationship between the first and second cams determines the length of time for at least one process step. First and second user adjustable elements are attached to the first and second cams. These user adjustable elements do not require any disassembly of the mechanical timer by the user or require any tools. A plurality of switches engage the cams to control various process steps.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2000Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Assignee: Aquion Partners Limited PartnershipInventors: Peter Piacenza, Amy Cotton, Stephen Gaynes, John H. Kargenian
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Publication number: 20020017326Abstract: Device (10) to deliver and mix water for taps (12), said device comprising a mixer cartridge (30), able to be arranged inside the monoblock (11) of the tap (12), means to regulate the mixing of the water and actuation means arranged above said monoblock (11), able to determine the opening and closing of the flow of water, said actuation means being commanded electrically and comprising an interception element (20) able to cooperate with said mixer cartridge (30).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2001Publication date: February 14, 2002Inventors: Mauro Lorenzelli, Gabriele Sarasini
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Patent number: 6337635Abstract: The activation and deactivation of an outdoors, hose faucet-mounted valve unit to control the flow of water through a standard garden hose with attached sprinkler is remotely controlled from indoors rather than at the valve unit. This is accomplished without the use of unwieldy and unsightly electrical cables by means of radio frequency (RF) signals. A remote, programmable, controller unit located indoors with attached transmitting unit commands such transmitting unit to send signals in accordance with preprogrammed instructions in the controller unit. A receiver unit attached to the valve unit intercepts the transmitted signals and instructs the valve unit to open or close the water valve and flow of water based thereon. Direct connection of the controller to the valve unit is possible such that the transmitter unit and receiver unit are not used such as during pleasant weather conditions.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 1998Date of Patent: January 8, 2002Assignee: Orbit Irrigation Products, Inc.Inventors: Kent C. Ericksen, Alan J. Smith, Kim Y. Hayes, Mike R. Ericksen
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Patent number: 6325093Abstract: A water distributing installation controller includes water pumps for supplying clear water from a filtration plant to a distributing reservoir, a level gauge for measuring the water level of the distributing reservoir, a first flow meter for measuring the water supply directed thereto, a second flow meter for measuring the water delivery directed to a distributing area, a pumps-number control part for controlling the number of pumps operated, and a short-term demand prediction part for providing short-term demand prediction data on the water delivery to the pumps-number control part at the request thereof.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1997Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha MeidenshaInventor: Nobuo Ooshima
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Publication number: 20010025660Abstract: A method of conserving a facility delivered to a machine during the machine's idle mode is herein described. In one embodiment, the method is directed to a method for conserving coolant water delivery to a semiconductor wafer grinding machine. The system monitors the status of the grinder to determine whether the grinder is active or idle. After the system determines the grinder has entered idle mode, the system reduces the flow of water to the machine. In one embodiment, the flow is simply reduced while, in another embodiment, the flow is terminated. A delay circuit in the system may delay the reduction of the flow rate until some point after entering idle mode. Periodically throughout the idle mode, the system increases the flow of coolant water to the grinder to ensure the temperature of all grinder components remains consistent. The duty cycle of the coolant flow may be adjusted to optimize water conservation and machine readiness.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2001Publication date: October 4, 2001Applicant: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventor: Michael B. Ball