Temperature Patents (Class 137/79)
  • Patent number: 11909626
    Abstract: In example embodiments, a shortest path first-based isolation trace function is provided to determines what switchable elements need to be closed to stop flow of a quality to a location in an infrastructure model arranged as a network. The shortest path first-based isolation trace function may perform shortest-path traces from the location to each source. For each successful shortest-path trace finding one or more switchable elements, the first switchable element encountered on the path of the trace is added to a solution set, and marked as active to prevent further traversal in subsequent shortest-path traces. When all the shortest-path traces are complete, the solution set may be returned as a result. If no switchable element is found on a path of one of the shortest-path traces, it may be concluded that the location cannot be isolated and such conclusion returned as the result instead of the solution set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: Bentley Systems, Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael Tajmajer, Michael Carlisle, Alfredo Contreras
  • Patent number: 11852261
    Abstract: A valve includes at least one valve stem seal, such as a packing seal, that is included in a removable seal cartridge. The valve stem is connected to the actuator via a linkage, which can be removed to provide a linkage gap between the actuator and the valve stem. The seal cartridge can then be slid along the valve stem into the linkage gap and laterally removed from the valve, whereupon the seals within the seal cartridge can be refurbished. The valve can be a rotary or linear valve. In embodiments, the linkage gap can be increased by linear displacement of the actuator away from the valve stem. The seal cartridge can be re-installed in the valve after refurbishment, or a substantially identical replacement seal cartridge can be provided, and can be installed in the valve in replacement of the removed seal cartridge, thereby minimizing downtime of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: Flowserve Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Paul Jeffrey Parish, Michael P. Nelson, Ivica Radman
  • Patent number: 11692635
    Abstract: A pressure relief valve configured to vent a pressurized tank in the event of a fire is provided. The pressure relief valve includes a body, a vent passage, a plug and a latch. The vent passage is disposed through the body. The vent passage can be placed in fluid communication with an internal volume of a tank and with the atmosphere. The plug is moveably mounted in the vent passage. The latch has a blocking member disposed in contact with a control end of the plug in a first configuration and out of contact with the control end in a second configuration. The second configuration allows movement of the plug in the vent passage. One or both of a shape memory alloy wire and a trigger piston is configured to actuate the latch from the first to the second configuration. The shape memory alloy wire is configured to shorten when exposed to a temperature above a threshold temperature. The trigger piston moves, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: Agility Fuel Systems LLC
    Inventors: David Neil Morgan, Michael Gregory Volkmer, Chad Alvin Cederberg, Glen Edward Lampe
  • Patent number: 11187336
    Abstract: A pressure relief valve configured to vent a pressurized tank in the event of a fire is provided. The pressure relief valve includes a body, a vent passage, a plug and a latch. The vent passage is disposed through the body. The vent passage can be placed in fluid communication with an internal volume of a tank and with the atmosphere. The plug is moveably mounted in the vent passage. The latch has a blocking member disposed in contact with a control end of the plug in a first configuration and out of contact with the control end in a second configuration. The second configuration allows movement of the plug in the vent passage. One or both of a shape memory alloy wire and a trigger piston is configured to actuate the latch from the first to the second configuration. The shape memory alloy wire is configured to shorten when exposed to a temperature above a threshold temperature. The trigger piston moves, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: Agility Fuel Systems LLC
    Inventors: David Neil Morgan, Michael Gregory Volkmer, Chad Alvin Cederberg, Glen Edward Lampe
  • Patent number: 11123588
    Abstract: Automatic fluid control assemblies and methods for fire protection include an arrangement of electrically operated control points, a valve body and a controller to operate the fluid control assembly. The automatic fluid control assembly has an inlet, an outlet and a valve body to control flow between the inlet and the outlet. An electric latch includes a first electrically operated control point and a second electrically operated control point in fluid communication with a control line to control the flow of fluid control include controlling a plurality of electrically operated control points to perform any one of: a leak test, a trip test, a flow test, a water delivery test, and a validation test of a non-trip condition and a trip condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventors: James O. Williams, Roger S. Wilkins
  • Patent number: 10948094
    Abstract: A fire sprinkler including: a body connected to a water supply and having a passage, the passage having a sealing material or a sealing surface at a first end; an actuator disposed in the passage, the actuator and passage configuring a water-tight seal; a water spreader configured to direct water radially outward; and a wax motor actuated by an ambient temperature greater than a predetermined threshold temperature such that actuation of the wax motor exerts an actuation force on the second end of the actuator to move the actuator to a seal between the water supply and the water spreader; wherein the actuator is arranged such that the pressure from the water supply tends to move the actuator to stop water flow when the ambient temperature falls below the predetermined threshold temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Inventors: Raul Adonis Delgado, Brian Charles Delgado
  • Patent number: 10648586
    Abstract: An automated thermally responsive valve with an internal reset function is disclosed. The cartridge latching mechanism can be retracted at a target temperature and manually reset at the target temperature to engage an ejector cap. The reset mechanism of the cartridge automatically returns to a latching configuration upon warming. The cartridge thermal actuator can be configured to retract the latching mechanism at a target temperature near freezing to provide a freeze protection drain valve that is ejected from a sealing element in the ejector cap and allows a fluid system to drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: THERM-OMEGA-TECH, INC.
    Inventor: Alexander Lee Negovan
  • Patent number: 10561874
    Abstract: Automatic fluid control assemblies and methods for fire protection include an arrangement of electrically operated control points, a valve body and a controller to operate the fluid control assembly. The automatic fluid control assembly has an inlet, an outlet and a valve body to control flow between the inlet and the outlet. An electric latch includes a first electrically operated control point and a second electrically operated control point in fluid communication with a control line to control the flow of fluid from the inlet to the valve body and outlet. The methods of fluid control include controlling a plurality of electrically operated control points to perform any one of: a leak test, a trip test, a flow test, a water delivery test, and a validation test of a non-trip condition and a trip condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventors: James O. Williams, Roger S. Wilkins
  • Patent number: 10436661
    Abstract: Heat resistant sensors equipped with any of a variety of transducers for measuring any of a variety of properties of fluids are constructed with components comprising materials that can withstand very high temperatures. Some embodiments of the sensors include a base comprising non-conductive ceramic material, and some embodiments of the transducers include conductive ceramic materials with resistivities that vary as a function of temperature. Some embodiments of the sensors also include electrical conductors comprising electrically conductive ceramic material or electrical conductors comprising an electrically conductive refractory metal on the base. Other embodiments of the transducers include a capacitor constructed of materials that can withstand very high temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: SPORIAN MICROSYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin Harsh, Yiping Liu, Jon L. Lubbers, Evan Pilant, Laura Rodrigues, Laurel Frediani, Brian Schaible, Brady Knowles, Aris Legorreta
  • Patent number: 10420970
    Abstract: A fire protection system includes a dry pipe system and a controlled discharge gas vent. The dry pipe system and controlled discharge gas vent operate using a breathing cycle to displace oxygen and/or water vapor from within the piping network of the dry pipe system. The controlled gas discharge vent allows displacement of pressurized air with nitrogen, for example, using manual or automated processes that can employ one or more sensors. Corrosion resulting from oxygen, water, and/or microbial growth is reduced or nearly eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: Engineered Corrosion Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: David J. Burkhart, Jeffrey T. Kochelek, Kenneth Jones, Thorstein Holt
  • Patent number: 9709103
    Abstract: A viscous clutch (30; 130; 230) includes a shaft (32; 132; 232), a rotor (34; 134; 234) attached to the shaft, a housing (36; 136; 236) located adjacent to the rotor, a working chamber (40; 140; 240) defined between the rotor and the housing, and a reservoir (38; 138; 238) used to store a shear fluid. Selective introduction of the shear fluid to the working chamber facilitates selective torque transmission between the rotor and the housing. The reservoir is attached to the shaft separately from the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: Horton, Inc.
    Inventors: Raimund Krammer, Derek Savela, Bastian Brand
  • Patent number: 9610466
    Abstract: A fire protection system includes a dry pipe system and a controlled discharge gas vent. The dry pipe system and controlled discharge gas vent operate using a breathing cycle to displace oxygen and/or water vapor from within the piping network of the dry pipe system. The controlled gas discharge vent allows displacement of pressurized air with nitrogen, for example, using manual or automated processes that can employ one or more sensors. Corrosion resulting from oxygen, water, and/or microbial growth is reduced or nearly eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignees: Engineered Corrosion Solutions, LLC, Holtec Gas Systems, LLC
    Inventors: David J. Burkhart, Jeffrey T. Kochelek, Kenneth Jones, Thorstein Holt
  • Patent number: 9551305
    Abstract: A safety and injection system for adding an additive to fuel in a fuel chamber, includes a portable additive source having a body, an additive chamber, a memory, a fuel inlet, and a fuel outlet. The system can also include a fuel inlet valve which is connected to the fuel chamber, and includes a connector for connecting to the fuel inlet; a fuel outlet valve which is connected to the fuel chamber and including a connector for connecting to the fuel outlet. The system can further include a platform having a memory reader/writer that reads the information in memory and is capable of writing information on memory, and on which the portable additive source is placed; and at least one control unit which is connected with the memory reader/writer, which includes a user interface device for receiving control information from the user, and which controls the operation of the safety and injection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Aygaz Anonim Sirketi
    Inventors: Emrah Isbilen, Burak Yaman, Emrah Birsen
  • Patent number: 9453541
    Abstract: A viscous clutch includes a shaft, a rotor attached to the shaft, a housing located adjacent to the rotor, a working chamber defined between the rotor and the housing, and a reservoir used to store a shear fluid. Selective introduction of the shear fluid to the working chamber facilitates selective torque transmission between the rotor and the housing. The reservoir is attached to the shaft separately from the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: Horton, Inc.
    Inventors: Raimund Krammer, Derek Savela, Bastian Brand
  • Patent number: 8950418
    Abstract: A method for operating a fluid drainage control system to drain a fluid from a fluid dispensation system is provided. The method includes determining a first ambient air temperature, determining if the first ambient air temperature is less than a predetermined drain set point temperature, isolating the fluid dispensation system from a fluid supply source by closing a supply valve located inside a temperature controlled area in response to the first ambient air temperature being less than the predetermined drain set point temperature, and draining the fluid from the fluid dispensation system by opening a drain valve subsequent to closing the supply valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Virid Services, LLC
    Inventor: Jon Lips
  • Patent number: 8931502
    Abstract: The invention relates to a gas-dispensing device for connecting a plurality of pressurized gas sources (E1, E2, E3, E4) to a user, the device including a housing provided with a plurality of gas inlets to be connected to respective gas sources (E1, E2, E3, E4) and an outlet to be connected to a user member, a dispensing member that selectively movable, relative to the body, into separate dispensing positions for selectively putting each inlet in communication with the outlet in turn, while the other inlets are isolated from the outlet, characterized in that the device comprises an emergency discharge system that is movable into an operative position in which all the gas inlets are simultaneously forcedly connected to a gas discharge outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventor: Laurent Allidieres
  • Patent number: 8910651
    Abstract: Apparatus, methods and systems for inspecting and/or sensing defects in a thermal pressure relief device. The thermal pressure relief apparatus may comprise a bulb having a fluid therein. In some implementations, a sensor may be used to determine whether the fluid within the bulb exceeds a fill level threshold. Upon determining that the fluid is below the fill level threshold, an action may be taken. In some implementations, the action may comprise providing a notification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Axel Heise
  • Patent number: 8870154
    Abstract: The invention relates to a shutter actuator including a translatably guided carriage (10) rigidly connected to the shaft (4) in the housing (3), and comprises: a rack (11) that meshes with the cog (20) of the outlet shaft (4) linked to the flap (2-1) of the shutter (2); a bearing (13) for a triggering spring (70); a bearing member (12) for a cocking member (30) that drives the carriage (10); and a locking notch (14-1) for receiving a locking member (42) supported by a locking arm (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Vraco SAS
    Inventor: Jean-Baptiste Willoquet
  • Publication number: 20140305506
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a foreline for conveying a waste stream which is drawn from a process chamber to a pumping mechanism. The foreline comprises an isolation valve for selectively isolating the pumping mechanism from the process chamber and a bypass positioned around the isolation valve. The apparatus further comprises a controller for actuating the isolation valve. The controller is configured to cause the isolation valve to be closed when the waste stream is initially drawn from the process chamber, during which time the waste stream is conveyed to the pumping mechanism via the bypass. The bypass includes means for inhibiting propagation of a flame front therethrough. The controller is configured to cause the isolation valve to be opened once a pressure within a region upstream of the isolation valve has been reduced below a value at which propagation of a flame front within the waste stream can be sustained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: Christopher Mark Bailey
  • Publication number: 20140290749
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling aircraft anti-ice bleed air flow in an anti-ice system. The system includes a modulating shut-off valve that is moveable between a closed position and a plurality of open positions. Bleed air pressure upstream of the modulating shut-off valve is measured when the modulating shut-off valve is in the closed position. When an anti-ice initiation signal is received in a processor, the processor determines, based on at least the measured bleed air pressure when the anti-ice initiation signal was received, an initial open position of the modulating shut-off valve. The processor also commands the modulating shut-off valve to move to the initial open position, determines when a predetermined event occurs, and commands the modulating shut-off valve to remain in the initial open position until the predetermined event occurs period.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2013
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventor: Gregory J. Chapman
  • Patent number: 8844554
    Abstract: A valve mechanism which opens in response to a high temperature includes a stopper positionable at a closed position that blocks the flow of water in a cylindrical body attached to a water supply pipe. A stopper support permits the stopper to be movable from the closed position to an open position, wherein pressure of the water in the supply pipe tends to move the stopper from the closed position to the open position. A locking unit is positionable to lock the support in a position wherein the stopper blocks the channel, and has an inclined surface inclined obliquely to the water flow direction. A heat sensitive section blocks movement of the locking unit from the locking position and includes a heat sensitive portion responsive to the temperature of an environment of the valve mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Tetsuro Kikuchi, Yasuaki Koiwa
  • Publication number: 20140261714
    Abstract: A valve and actuator assembly that includes a valve configured to control a flow of liquid into a coil or heat exchanger. The valve and actuator assembly further includes a valve actuator configured to control opening and closing of the valve via positioning of a valve closure member. The valve actuator is further configured to provide both a maximum flow rate and a minimum flow rate of the liquid through the valve. In an embodiment, the valve actuator includes a valve closure member position sensor configured to determine the position of the valve closure member based on a flow rate of the liquid through the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Schneider Electric Buildings, LLC
    Inventor: Alan Burt
  • Publication number: 20140230918
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to improved assembly for transporting flammable fluids. In an example, the assembly comprises a conduit, a liner, and a core. The liner comprises a material that contracts in response to an elevation in temperature. In an example, the liner comprises a material that expands in response to an elevation in temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: Crane Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles G. Keith
  • Patent number: 8726923
    Abstract: A safety valve coupled to a container to release liquid within the container. The container defines an opening surrounded by a container surface. The safety valve includes a housing defining an interior containing a fusible member for actuating a plug between a closed position and an open position to release the liquid upon melting the fusible member. A main body has a first end for coupling to the housing and a second end for coupling to the opening of the container. The main body second end includes a main body surface defining axial bores for receiving screws to fix the main body to the housing. Upon coupling the safety valve to the container, a small gap is formed between the container surface and the main body surface to limit loosening of the screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Kunihiko Daido, Toshio Kita
  • Patent number: 8714180
    Abstract: A thermal triggering element for sprinklers, valves or the like including an enclosed compartment with a container filled with a highly temperature-sensitive shattering fluid for precise and reproducible adjustment of a triggering temperature within the range of a few degrees Celsius. The invention increases the accuracy of the triggering temperature and identifies shattering liquids that allow precise sensitive triggering action in terms of temperature of the triggering element and open up further triggering temperatures ranges. The triggering fluid contains or consists of a hydrocarbon compound selected among one of the following substance groups or a mixture thereof: d) a heterocyclic hydrocarbon having a OH, NH or NH2 group bonded to a carbon atom; e) a hydrocarbon having at least one benzene ring with an OH group bonded to one of the carbon atoms of the benzene ring; f) a phosphate with at least one hydrocarbon moiety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Job Lizenz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Rüdiger Klug, Tino Schmalfuss
  • Patent number: 8689813
    Abstract: A valve for preventing freeze-fracturing prevents accidental freeze-fracturing due to the freezing of water by draining water from a flow pipe before the danger of freezing occurs when the temperature of ambient air drops. The valve for preventing freeze-fracturing includes a housing coupled to a pipe port and a draining chamber provided in a portion of the housing that faces the pipe port. The draining chamber has therein a water inlet hole, which communicates with an inside of the flow pipe, and a water outlet hole, which communicates with an outside of the housing. A storage chamber is provided in a portion of the housing that is opposite the draining chamber, and contains therein a phase change material, which decreases in volume while changing in phase from liquid to solid. A plunger is movably disposed in the draining chamber to open and close the water inlet hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Industrial Technology
    Inventors: Joung Ha Kim, Jae Ho Yun, Sung Hyun Kim
  • Patent number: 8636165
    Abstract: There is provided a gas tank that suppresses an increase in pressure of a gas filled therein. A hydrogen tank comprises a tank main body filled with hydrogen, a thermofoamable heat-insulating layer provided on the external surface of the tank main body, a relief valve which is provided at the left end of the tank main body and which reduces the pressure in the tank main body by releasing the hydrogen in the tank main body, and a liner which extends from the relief valve toward the right end and which detects an increase in temperature. The relief valve is thermally connected to the liner, and is actuated based on heat transferred from the liner in order to release the hydrogen in the tank main body, thereby reducing the pressure in the tank main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kiyoshi Handa
  • Patent number: 8490639
    Abstract: Provided is a temperature-sensitive fluid flow interruption device for use in operational connection with a normally-closed poppet openable by overcoming a closure force. The device may comprise an elongated housing, an elongated displacement member, a spring, and a retention cap. An elongated housing may comprise an elongated first channel. An elongated displacement member may be engaged with said elongated first channel and may comprise a longitudinal axis, a first spring retention surface, and a poppet engageable end. The poppet engageable end may be adapted for engagement with said poppet and may be engaged with the housing in a manner determined by the temperature of the temperature-sensitive fluid flow interruption device with respect to a predetermined temperature. A spring may be engaged with the first retention surface. A retention cap may be engaged with the housing and may comprise a second retention surface engaged with the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Enerco Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian J. Vandrak
  • Patent number: 8443849
    Abstract: An irrigation system draining apparatus adapted for use with an irrigation system having a conduit with a fluid source connection, an air inlet, and at least one output port, the apparatus includes a suction device. The suction device has an input port that is adapted to access an interior of the conduit, and to drain fluid from the conduit by suction when the fluid source connection is closed and the air inlet is open. A method of draining an irrigation system includes closing a fluid source connection for the irrigation system, opening an air inlet of the irrigation system, and using a suction device to drain fluid from the irrigation system conduit through the one output port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventors: Joseph Rosselli, Arto Cinoglu
  • Patent number: 8439063
    Abstract: A valve (10) is disclosed which is operable to automatically transition from a closed state to an open state in response to heat. The valve (10) includes: a cover (12) having at least one opening (12a) therein; at least one adhesive layer (32, 36) for sealing a perimeter of the cover (12) to a wall (22) of a food cooking package (20) on which the valve (10) is positioned; and, a deformable element (14) that shrinks in response to being exposed to heat, the deformable element (14) having a perimeter which is sealed by an adhesive when the valve (10) is in its closed state, wherein shrinking of the deformable element (14) pulls the perimeter of the deformable element (14) away from a site where it is sealed by the adhesive, thereby breaking the seal about the perimeter of the deformable element (14) and transitioning the valve (10) from its closed state to its open state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventors: David W. Seline, Richard L. Sandt, Mary Beth Rusin, Nicholas Greco
  • Patent number: 8439064
    Abstract: A safety valve for a compressed gas reservoir has an exhaust duct that is connected to the compressed gas reservoir, and a sealing element, which is arranged to move within the exhaust duct, and selectively opens the exhaust duct to the outside depending on an operating phase. The exhaust duct has a greater cross-sectional area on the side facing away from the compressed gas reservoir than on the side facing the compressed reservoir, and a constriction on the side of the sealing element facing away from the compressed reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Daimler AG
    Inventors: Steffen Maus, David Wenger, Patrick Wilde
  • Patent number: 8434507
    Abstract: A safety valve device has a safety valve body and is configured to open at a temperature of or over a preset reference temperature. The safety valve device also includes a gas flow path arranged to make a flow of hydrogen flowing out of a hydrogen tank via the safety valve body in a valve open position, and a discharge pipe configured to have a hydrogen discharge opening and arranged to discharge the hydrogen flowing through the gas flow path to the outside. The hydrogen discharge opening of the discharge pipe is formed to discharge the hydrogen in an oblique direction relative to a direction of an axial center of the gas flow path. The discharge pipe also has a groove formed to apply an input rotational force to the discharge pipe and thereby rotate the discharge pipe around the axial center of the gas flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Iida, Yasuhiro Yamamoto, Yutaka Tano, Kunihiko Daido
  • Patent number: 8424550
    Abstract: A method for operating a fluid drainage control system to drain a fluid from a fluid dispensation system is provided. The method includes determining a first ambient air temperature, determining if the first ambient air temperature is less than a predetermined drain set point temperature, isolating the fluid dispensation system from a fluid supply source by closing a supply valve located inside a temperature controlled area in response to the first ambient air temperature being less than the predetermined drain set point temperature, and draining the fluid from the fluid dispensation system by opening a drain valve subsequent to closing the supply valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Virid Services, LLC
    Inventor: Jon Lips
  • Publication number: 20130087215
    Abstract: A gas safety device is provided. An electronic valve connected to a thermocouple is closed to cut off the gas supply when the temperature of radiant heat directly emitted from a surface of a vessel exceeds a preset temperature level while the vessel is heated through the spark ignition of a burner, thereby preventing risks of overheating and thus fire caused due to a user's carelessness when the user cooks the food.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: EN INNOVATION CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Sung-Hyung Park
  • Publication number: 20130087214
    Abstract: The invention relates to a safety device for containers loaded by gas pressure. Said safety device (1) for containers pressurized with gas, in particular for safeguarding the gas side of the working chamber of hydropneumatic apparatuses, such as hydraulic accumulators, comprising a relief apparatus (2) for reducing an elevated gas pressure in the particular container (3), caused by the influence of heat. is characterized in that the relief apparatus (2) is a component (4) that is loaded under the influence of a shear force or compressive force, the shape change of said component under the influence of heat on the safety device (1) in a space (5) closed to the outside occurring in such a way that a fluid-conducting connection (6) from the inside of the container (3) to the outside in the direction of the surroundings is enabled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventor: Walter Dorr
  • Patent number: 8413951
    Abstract: A valve device includes a temperature sensor disposed to project from a housing to a tank inner space to detect the temperature in the tank inner space, and can detect the temperature without being influenced by the heat capacity of the housing. A coil generates a magnetic force to drive a valve with three terminals arranged at different positions in an axial direction, and a drive voltage is selectively applied between two of the terminals. A current value of the driving current which energizes the coil can be changed by selecting the terminals between which the drive voltage is applied. Without controlling the drive voltage, it is possible to suppress wasting power such that the driving current of the large current value is generated in the start-up time, and the current value of the driving current is decreased in the holding time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Kawasaki Precision Machinery, Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kaoru Nomichi, Yutaka Suzuki, Makoto Ninomiya, Hiroshi Ito
  • Patent number: 8408247
    Abstract: The invention relates to an element for controlling filling and/or drawing of a pressurized gas, to be mounted in an opening of a tank (1), comprising a body (21) provided with at least one device (8) for controlling the circulation of gas placed between a first end, which has an opening (31) forming an inlet and/or an outlet for the gas with regard to the tank, and a second end for communicating with the inside of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Société Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procédés Georges Claude
    Inventor: Philippe Pisot
  • Patent number: 8397452
    Abstract: A relatively inexpensive bushing easily installed extending through walls, particularly, gypsum board membrane walls for providing firestopping around a limited number of linear penetrating members such as cables or wires. This grommet construction includes first and second half sections for facilitating attachment around cables more easily. A split internal seal preferably of resilient foam material is positioned within a split mechanical shell which facilitates placing of the bushing around penetrating members prior to placement thereof through walls or after positioned thereof penetrating through a panel such as wallboard. A split mechanical shell with a two-piece foam insert retained within a bore extending therethrough can be formed as two separable half cylindrical shells. Barbs are included on the outer portion of the shell to facilitate mounting thereof. The foam firestopping seal portion can be intumescent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Specified Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Stahl, Sr., James P. Stahl, Jr., Julio Lopes, Paul Gandolfo
  • Patent number: 8350571
    Abstract: An electronic salt meter including a sensor rod, salt meter body and receiving components to measure a temperature and salinity. The electronic salt meter includes a first and sensor electrode and a temperature sensor to detect a temperature of the measurement object. A measurement monitoring unit detects whether the first and second sensor electrodes are electrically connected to each other. A salinity measurement unit applies an AC power to the first and second sensor electrodes to measure salinity of the measurement object. A temperature measurement unit applies a power to the temperature sensor to measure the temperature of the measurement object. A thermal equilibrium detection unit stores the temperature value previously measured, and when the temperature variation is less than a predetermined threshold, it is determined as a thermal equilibrium state. A room-temperature salinity conversion unit converts the salinity value into a salinity value at room temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Yun-Ho Son
  • Patent number: 8327867
    Abstract: An antifreezing valve device for hydraulic and/or water storage systems includes a valve body having a water inlet and outlet which open into a chamber housing a linear thermostatic actuator, and a closing member operatively connected to the thermostatic actuator to be moved from a closed position for closing a sealing seat for ambient temperatures equivalent to or higher than a preset value, to an open position for discharging water from a system for lower ambient temperatures; the closing member is conformed with a cup-shaped support element sealingly slidable along the cylindrical body of the actuator, in order to define with this a closed chamber into which extends the actuator control rod. The device also includes first and second biasing spring members acting at opposite ends of the housing chamber on the closing member, respectively on the linear actuator, and guide element for sliding of the linear actuator and of the closing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Caleffi S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marco Caleffi
  • Patent number: 8322417
    Abstract: An actuator is disclosed which operates on the principle of the variable magnetic properties of materials with respect to temperature. As temperature is raised past Curie temperature, magnetic permeability of certain materials drops significantly to a value close to free space permeability. However, depending on the material selection, magnetic permeability may be significantly higher below Curie temperature. This principle is used to cause magnetic attractive force to move an actuator at one temperature, while permitting a return spring force to move the actuator at another temperature by changing the pathway traversed by most magnetic lines of flux from a magnetic source. The actuator may be employed to provide a temperature activated electrical switch or fluid valve. The temperature activated valves are suited to use in high temperature environments, such as SAGD wells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Murat Ocalan, Kuo Chiang Chen
  • Patent number: 8282134
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of assembling a thermally responsive fluid coupling of a pressure reducing fuel regulator is provided. The fuel regulator includes an inlet conduit having a longitudinally extending ridge. A generally annular bushing is positioned over the inlet conduit. The bushing includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced figures and a cutout dimensioned to receive the ridge of the inlet conduit. A fluid-carrying member is positioned at least partially within the inlet conduit. A collar is positioned over the inlet conduit. The collar includes a first end adapted to be releasably connected to a cooperative fluid coupling and a second end. The second end of the collar is secured between the plurality of fingers of the bushing and the inlet conduit for preventing axial movement between the collar and the fluid-carrying member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Cavagna Group
    Inventor: Savio Cavagna
  • Publication number: 20120199593
    Abstract: The invention relates to a security device forming a pressurized gas release valve, said device including a body that defines a gas flow channel extending between a first upstream end, to be placed in contact with a source of pressurized gas, and a second downstream end, to be placed in contact with the outer atmosphere, the device including a stopper that is located on the channel so as to prevent the flow of the gas between the upstream end and the downstream end in a normal situation, the stopper being fusible and/or frangible so as to release the gas passage in the event of a dangerous situation when a pressure and/or a temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold. Said device is characterized in that said device includes a tank of an unstable, exothermically decomposable gas that is placed in communication with the pressurized gas released during the melting/breaking of the stopper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventors: Simon Jallais, Deborah Houssin
  • Publication number: 20120097253
    Abstract: A thermostat-controlled automatic water valve can be used to turn water from a faucet/spigot on or off automatically based on a preset air temperature. The device is compact, easy to threadingly install and can be used to reliably satisfy the watering or cooling needs of livestock or growing plants. It can also be connected to a cooling mist system enabling it to automatically turn on if the thermostat/temperature controller senses a certain set activation temperature. Building owners can also employ this item to automatically run water to keep pipes from freezing or other similar tasks/events. The device measures ambient temperature and is programmable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventor: Devin Eutsler
  • Patent number: 8156961
    Abstract: The invention relates to an assembly including a pressurized gas storage tank and a control device for filling the tank with gas and/or extracting gas therefrom. The aforementioned tank includes: a hole which communicates with the interior of the tank, a filling and distribution head which is disposed at the hole and which includes a pre-expansion device which is at least partially integrated inside the volume of the tank, and a connection interface which is removably engaged with the gas supply and/or extraction control device such as to co-operate therewith. The invention is characterized in that the head includes an isolation member, such as a valve, which is housed at least partially inside the volume of the head and which can be accessed by an opening member that is external to the head through an access hole that is provided in the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Arnaud Denis, Renaud Ligonesche, Philippe Pisot
  • Patent number: 8141574
    Abstract: The housing is attachable to a high pressure fluid containing structure. A piston is provided within the housing, with the piston having a closed position and an open position. The closed position blocks an outlet vent of the relief device, with the open position allowing high pressure fluid to escape through the vent. The piston is biased toward the open position by the high pressure fluid, but is held in the closed position by a slide. The slide has a first position and a second position, with the first position holding the piston in the closed position. A spring biases the slide toward a second position, with a eutectic mass resisting movement of the slide to the second position. The eutectic mass is selected to have a melting point matching a maximum design temperature for the high pressure fluid containing structure. Should the eutectic mass melt, the high pressure fluid escapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Pacific Consolidated Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Haldon L. Weatherly, Jason M. Burns
  • Patent number: 8062108
    Abstract: A self-closing vent intended for use in attics, crawl spaces, joist cavities, exterior walls, interior walls, or other structural element which allows for the free flow of air from outside a building to interior spaces during normal use. The vent includes a damper blade pivotally connected to, and disposed within, the vent housing, which is held in an open position by a temperature sensitive fusible link. Two, and preferably three, permanent magnets provide the force for driving the damper blade into a closed and locked position. A first magnet disposed in a side of the vent housing and a second magnet disposed on the damper blade are disposed with opposing (repelling) polarities when the damper blade is held in the open position. A third magnet disposed proximate the back of the vent housing is oriented so as to attract the magnet disposed on the damper blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventors: Thomas R. Carlson, Rados R. Marusic, Theresa Carlson-Marusic
  • Patent number: 8042715
    Abstract: A dispensing closure for a container that includes closure walls, at least one dispensing aperture, at least one closing element that is movable between a position where the aperture is closed, and a position where the aperture is open. This closure includes at least one actionable member that surrounds the closure walls and the closing element, a spring element disposed between the closing element and the closure walls to force the closing element to close the aperture, a connection device that includes a flexible pouch containing a temperature dependent material, and a catch mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Christophe Jean-Marie Yves Charlier, Bruno Sadi Henri Delande, Jean-Francois Andre Aime Delaunay, Pierre Henri Lebrand
  • Patent number: 7954506
    Abstract: A plumbing system operable to automatically introduce antifreeze into the hot and cold water systems responsive to a signal from a controller. The controller activates the system automatically at a predetermined ambient temperature. The system can also be reconfigured manually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: John David Swan
  • Patent number: 7934680
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for blending fluids and applying the blended fluid to a surface of an aircraft during deicing and anti-icing operations having a first tank, second tank, blend tank, pumps, conduits, heaters, controllers, and a delivery device. In operation, a controller compares the composition of the blended fluid in the blend tank to the composition of a target fluid that is determined by current ambient temperature of the environment, and advances first and second fluids from the first and second tanks, respectively, into the blend tank to achieve and maintain the target fluid composition in the blend tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Global Ground Support, LLC
    Inventor: Richard L. Smith