Pipe Side Patents (Class 251/145)
  • Patent number: 11952887
    Abstract: A plunger lift system, as well as a method for monitoring plunger parameters within a wellbore using such a plunger lift system, are provided. The plunger lift system includes a lubricator attached to a wellhead at the surface and a plunger dimensioned to travel through the production tubing upon being released from the lubricator. The plunger lift system also includes magnetic sensor systems installed along the production tubing, where each magnetic sensor system includes a magnetic sensor for detecting the passage of the plunger as it travels through the production tubing, as well a communication device for transmitting communication signals between the magnetic sensor systems and a computing system located at the surface, where the computing system includes a processor and a non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium including computer-executable instructions that direct the processor to dynamically determine the plunger position and/or velocity based on the received communication signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Technology and Engineering Company
    Inventors: Michael C. Romer, Michael C. Tschauner, Christopher C. Frazier, Andrew D. McFadden, Salvador G. Vela, III, Billy-Bob K. Walker, Adam J. Johnson
  • Patent number: 11598250
    Abstract: A valve for use in an engine exhaust conduit. The valve includes a base portion and a body portion extending from the base portion. The base portion is configured for pivotably mounting the valve within the engine exhaust conduit. The base portion defines a valve pivot axis. The valve is pivotable about the valve pivot axis during use. The body portion has an upstream side and a downstream side opposite the upstream side. The upstream side is exposed, during use, to fluid flow in the engine exhaust conduit. The body portion has a generally pointed shape defining a rounded tip at a location of the body portion furthest from the base portion in a length direction of the valve. The length direction of the valve is generally perpendicular to the valve pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: BRP-ROTAX GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Roland Ennsmann, Roland Wimmer, Markus Wolfsgruber
  • Patent number: 11566968
    Abstract: Systems and methods for control of the delivery of contaminates are provided. A conveyor moves contaminate particles from a hopper into an airflow. The contents of a hopper at multiple time points within a sliding window of time are weighted with a scale. A processor applies linear regression to a data set comprising the time points as an independent variable and the weight measurements as a dependent variable, resulting in a determination of a line fitting the data set. A processor determines a current mass flow rate of the contaminate particles from the slope of the line. The processor determines an estimated change in the conveyor motor speed needed to achieve the target mass flow rate, the estimated change determined from a predetermined mapping of flow rates to motor speeds, the estimated change based on the current mass flow rate, the target mass flow rate, and a predetermined fraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: ROLLS-ROYCE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Emily Holdmeyer, Bruce Crook
  • Patent number: 10633241
    Abstract: A tap for industrial use allows the collection of liquid samples. The tap is partially made up of a body crossed by a pipe and a control mechanism including, in particular, a handle and a shutter. In a closed position, the shutter entirely obstructs the hole of the pipe. In an open position, the shutter does not even partially obstruct the hole of the pipe. The tap is attached, in a closed position, to a container holding a liquid. An operator can, using the lever, switch the tap from a closed position to an open position, and vice versa, thus allowing the liquid to flow through the pipe according to variable flow rates ranging from a flow rate of zero in closed position to a maximum flow rate in open position. The pipe is removable to enable optimal cleaning of all the elements of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Inventors: Benjamin Thurin, Aurélien Guenerie
  • Patent number: 10412879
    Abstract: A decelerating device is mounted in series within a pneumatic particulate material delivery passage that communicates from a particulate material supply to a material outlet of a furrow opener for depositing particulate material into a furrow formed by the furrow opener. The decelerating device has a duct member extending longitudinally between opposing open ends for connection in line with the pneumatic particulate material delivery passage. A plurality of exhaust openings communicating through a peripheral wall of the duct member to exhaust air therethrough. A gate member is supported on the duct member so as to be movable relative to the exhaust openings to vary a cumulative exposed area of the exhaust openings. A perforated screen member spans across the exhaust openings having a smaller aperture size than the exhaust openings to ensure small particulate materials being conveyed do not escape through the exhaust openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: Tread Enterprises Ltd.
    Inventor: Brian Cruson
  • Patent number: 10215290
    Abstract: A plug for use in a plug valve includes an attachable upper trunnion that is assembled to the main plug body using fasteners and a male-female dovetail fit. The tensile and compressive loading experienced by the main plug body during its linear motion, and the torsional loading experienced during its 90° rotation, is supported by the fasteners and the dovetail fit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Robert H. Wolf, Jacob Layson
  • Patent number: 8651454
    Abstract: The valve assembly allowing users to efficiently drain large containers, such as tanks, barrels, drums, and pipes which are used to hold fluids. This device features a draining pipe with an attached dispensing valve, which can be installed into a hole that is drilled into the desired container. After installation, consumers may simply turn the dispensing valve to release desired amounts of liquid. Using this product may eliminate the need for using pumps, or for welding or cutting tees into pipes, in order to effectively drain large containers. The device may be for use in residential homes, farms, and industrial establishments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Paul Thompson
  • Patent number: 8074963
    Abstract: A fluid flow shut-off or control valve or device, for use within the field of irrigation, has at least one end shaped so as to allow coupling of the body with a rotatable ring nut provided with a female thread adapted to be screwed onto a corresponding male thread of a component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Teco S. R. L.
    Inventor: Cosimo Iacopetta
  • Patent number: 7458558
    Abstract: Method and apparatus 10 for releasing pressure that may have built up behind a plug 18 in a controlled manner. Environmental and safety regulations mandate that all bleeder valves in a gas and liquid hydrocarbon and chemical service require metal plugs 18 to be installed downstream of the valve to ensure a positive shut off. Removal of these plugs 18 can create a hazardous condition if there is not a good seat on the bleeder valve. Pressure can build up behind the plug 18 and as the bull plug is removed, an uncontrolled pressure release can occur. The apparatus 10 is a safety device, serving as a plug 18 and also providing a method for releasing the pressure that may have built up behind the plug in a controlled manner. The device 10 comprises a carbon steel plug 18 fabricated with a vent hole 20 for controlled pressure release and a carbon steel modified hex bolt 22 having a tapered seat 26.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: Patricia Toth
  • Publication number: 20080191157
    Abstract: A media control valve has a valve body having a media inlet and a media outlet and a plunger which is positioned within the valve body. The plunger is connected to a metering control assembly in the bore of the valve body and can be removed without disturbing the control assembly. A sleeve is positioned in the valve body between the valve body and the plunger. The sleeve includes an integral seal for sealing the valve to a flow device such as a base. The valve stem or post for housing the control knob may have metering marks for visually indicating the position of the plunger relative to the sleeve. The control knob on the valve is aligned with the metering marks on the valve body, whereby the valve opening may be calibrated by visual indication of the alignment of the metering marks with the lower edge of the control knob.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventor: Phoung Taylor Nguyen
  • Patent number: 7044440
    Abstract: An outfall valve structure conforming to ergonomics is primarily composed of a casing, which is moveably connected with a hollow pipe. The casing is in the form of a short pipe, the exterior wall thereof is provided with a coupler with an opening provided on the bottom such that the casing would become a tee; whereas the interior wall thereof is provided with a circle of hollow flow path along the position where the opening is. The hollow pipe is provided with a hook at one end of its pipe wall, and with a coupler at the other end. A barrier edge and an opening are provided between the hood and the coupler, such that the hollow pipe can be inserted into the casing with the end having a hook, thereby the casing can slidably move on the hollow pipe without detaching from the hollow pipe since it is stopped by the barrier edge and the hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Shih-Sheng Yang
  • Patent number: 6854771
    Abstract: Fittings configured as quick-connect couplings or valve assemblies utilize an O-ring to lock a male member within a female member. The O-ring engages a shoulder to both effect a seal and to prevent axial motion of the male member with respect to the female member. In accordance with one embodiment of this invention, pressure within lines coupled by the quick-connect couplings is used to effect locking of the couplings and in accordance with another embodiment, pressure within a container with which the valve assembly is used effects locking of the coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Darwin Olson
  • Patent number: 6722356
    Abstract: The invention relates to a gas valve of the type commonly used to connect a circular or non-planar gas manifold to the burner of a household cooktop. An adapter is provided for converting the gas valve for use with a non-planar profile gas manifold to a planar profile gas manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventor: Alessandro Distaso
  • Patent number: 6719002
    Abstract: A gas delivery system for propane or natural gas includes a gas service line, a pressure regulator connected in the gas service line, and a flow control valve device permanently installed at a predetermined location in the gas service line, e.g., upstream of the regulator or downstream of a gas meter in the case of a natural gas system. The flow control valve device includes a valve body incorporating an integral pressure tap for enabling a measurement of gas pressure at the predetermined locations. The valve device also includes a valve operator having an open position in which flow takes place through the valve device and a closed position in which flow through the valve device is blocked and a locking mechanism with a specialized key issued only to service personnel for selectively locking the valve operator in the open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Presto-Tap, LLC
    Inventor: Jimmie B. Shaw
  • Patent number: 6499717
    Abstract: A method of use and apparatus for a quick connect coupling in a fluid system as disclosed herein. The quick connect coupling includes a female coupling assembly and a male coupling assembly. The female coupling assembly includes a female cone housing nestable with a female cone. At least one female flow hole is formed in each of the female cone housing and female cone. The male coupling assembly has a male cone housing nestable with a male cone. At least one male flow hole is formed in each of the male cone housing, and the male cone. The at least one female flow hole rotatably misaligns to seal in a manner that fluid is contained from leaking past the female coupling assembly. The at least one male flow hole rotatably misaligns to seal in a manner that fluid is contained from leaking past the male coupling assembly. The male coupling assembly is removably rotatably insertable into the female cone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Donald W. Porter, Mark A. Marnell, Steven J. Mazzuca, Budy D. Notohardjono, Roger R. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6449981
    Abstract: An air passage controlling system for selecting an air outlet mode of an air conditioning apparatus includes a driving shaft, an intermediate shaft, a driven shaft and a film door disposed between the shafts. The film door has a door opening through which air flows, and is disposed inside an air duct to be opposite to a duct opening of the air duct. The duct opening is opened and closed by moving the film door to select an air outlet mode. The driving shaft and the driven shaft are respectively connected to a driving pulley and a driven pulley which are linked via a wire. The driving shaft is rotated by a DC motor, and a rotation angle of the driving shaft is detected by a multi-rotation type potentiometer. The DC motor is controlled by an ECU according to the detected rotation angle of the driving shaft so that the film door is moved to a set position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Hisashi Ueda, Katsuyuki Ohsaki, Keizo Goto
  • Patent number: 6223766
    Abstract: A method and assembly (kit) are provided for use by propane tank service personnel to detect escaping gas in propane tank systems. The standard connection between the regulator and tank service valve is replaced with a permanent valve assembly including a main connection between the regulator and valve and a valve unit disposed in a branch connection of the valve assembly. A separate pressure gauge is individually assigned to tank service personnel and adapted to be carried by such personnel in testing the pressure in the propane tank. The pressure gauge is affixed, e.g., through a hose, to a valve unit connector including an actuator, i.e., a valve stem operator, for actuating the valve unit. When the pressure gauge is connected to the valve unit, the latter is actuated to provide an immediate reading of the tank pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Presto-Tap, LLC
    Inventors: Jimmie Bryant Shaw, Thomas W. Young
  • Patent number: 6089530
    Abstract: A swing gate valve for closing a lateral discharge opening in an elongated conduit includes a swing gate shaped to fit around the exterior of the conduit in an open position adjacent the lateral opening. A pair of pivotable swing arms are connected to the swing gate on opposite sides of the conduit, and are operated by an air ram to swing the gate to move it to a closed position over the discharge opening to an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Henry A. Heer
  • Patent number: 6082395
    Abstract: A fluid flow regulator for regulating flow in tubes of vacuum or blower systems is disclosed. The regulator has a body formed by shaping interconnecting first and second body parts that are movable relative to one another wherein in one position flow is allowed only through an inner conduit and in a second position allowing fluid to flow into or out of a secondary opening to regulate the flow along the inner conduit and a cage like guard surrounding the connection of the first and second body parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventor: Zoltan Balint
  • Patent number: 5885152
    Abstract: A film valve designed to replace a semi cylindrical, solid rotary valve, which rolls the film against or away from the perimeter seal of an HVAC outlet opening without relative rubbing. Spring biased take up rollers journaled on V shaped, resilient wire support legs keep a film sheet biased against interleaved, arcuate support fingers to hold the film in the necessary curved shape. The curved film sheet rolls up or winds out from the rollers as the legs are pushed toward one another, or allowed to swing away from one another. The film rolls down onto or up and off of the foam seal surrounding the outlet opening without relative rubbing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth Lawrence Wardlaw
  • Patent number: 5826658
    Abstract: A fill-up valve is provided for a riser having a longitudinal axis that is connected at one end to a subsea wellhead and at the other end to a platform of an offshore oil or gas well. The fill-up valve is formed from a gate valve that mounts to an exterior of the riser and occupies a position extending less than the entire transverse periphery of the riser. The gate valve has a transverse profile projecting outward from the exterior of the riser that allows passage of the riser and fill-up valve through confined areas, such as through a rotary table of the well. A flow passage of the gate valve communicates with the interior of the riser to allow water to flow into the interior of the riser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Assignee: ABB Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Larry Keith Harthorn, Tan Hoon Kiang, Goi Kim Kok, See Teck Kiat, Lee Yew Huat, Tan Hock Lye
  • Patent number: 5806830
    Abstract: A molded plastic take-off collar for joining main and branch ducts in forced air heating, cooling, exhaust and ventilation systems having a tubular member with a first end perpendicular flange, and a second end having gripping beads and a stopping edge for attachment to a branch duct. Molded strengthening ribs are formed at the external intersection of the tube and flange; while truncated rims are formed extending from the inner walls of the tube to positively seat a damper flap wherein opposite sides have two protruding threaded pivot pins, which flap can be flexed for insertion of the pins into two opposite openings in the wall of the tube. The damper flap is a unitary structure with the molded pins and molded strengthening beads therefor. A handle and wing nut are provided for positioning the flap. A flexible double-sided adhesive covered ring facilitates joining of the take-off collar to the main duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Luis Jullian Alvarez
  • Patent number: 5687951
    Abstract: A new and improved drain valve for use with plastic fluid flow components, such as pipes, conduits, fittings, joints and the like is provided. The drain valves include a thermoplastic housing which is directly attached by welding or heat-fusion bonding to a plastic line component or is molded in during the molding step for making the line component. Valving members are assembled to the plastic housing to provide for selective drainage of the plastic line components as desired. The new and improved drain valves permit incorporation of drain valves into plastic conduits and fluid flow systems in a sealed and secure manner substantially in the absence of secondary sealing members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Georg Fischer Management AG
    Inventors: Michael Bamberger, Erasmao Porfido
  • Patent number: 5531243
    Abstract: A flow diverter 10 for mounting on the flange 53 of an irrigation standpipe valve 52 comprising a hollow cylindrical body 12, having a side opening 14, an anchor strap 16 formed integrally with the body 12 below the side opening 14, and a cap 18 mounted to the body 12 above the side opening 14. The body 12 and the strap 16 have rows of anchor stops 33 and 35 which fit above and below the valve flange 53 and the diverter 10 is secured to the valve 52 by the anchor strap 16 and the stops 33 and 35.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Inventor: Golden R. Broussard
  • Patent number: 5370360
    Abstract: This is a unitary bellmouth duct fitting having a tubular body portion and a bellmouth portion; the tubular body portion has a circumferential terminal edge from which the bellmouth portion or flange radially and integrally extends and the bellmouth portion merges with the tubular body portion to provide a less than two inch radius; the bellmouth portion has a lower surface which has a double sided adhesive first gasket engaged therewith and has a series of spaced holes formed therethrough, the first gasket is of a somewhat malleable material, and is of a ring-shaped configuration, the tubular body portion has an inner surface, the first gasket is of a malleable material and of a ring-shaped configuration, a first, through aperture is formed in the body portion spaced from the bellmouth portion, a second through aperture is formed in the body portion on the same horizontal plane as the first aperture, a damper fitted within the bellmouth duct fitting, the damper of a disk like configuration, has an upper surf
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Inventor: Robert Buckley
  • Patent number: 5326071
    Abstract: A drain plug comprising a housing including a body portion, a head portion and a first passage extending through the head portion and into the body portion; a valve seat disposed in the first passage; a movable valve closure member disposed in the first passage; a biasing device, disposed in the first passage, for biasing the valve closure member against the valve seat thereby sealing off the first passage such that fluid cannot pass through the first passage; a moving device for moving the valve closure member away from the valve seat to allow fluid to pass through the first passage, the moving device being positioned transverse to the longitudinal length of the first passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1994
    Assignee: Donald B. Gunness
    Inventor: Donald B. Gunness
  • Patent number: 5318273
    Abstract: A gate for irrigation pipes adapted to be moved between open and closed positions over an opening in the pipe. The gate includes a carrier plate having a sealing boot around its periphery which will engage with the interior of the pipe. A slide member engages the exterior of the pipe and is connected to the carrier plate by a plastic screw. The screw includes long pitch square threads so that the slide member and carrier plate may be quickly drawn together for installation or adjustment. The screw head is received in a circular recess in the slide member. As the screw is tightened a pair of small buttons on the underside of the screw head interact in ratcheting fashion with ridges formed in the recessed area of the slide member to prevent the screw from loosening in service. The recessed area is formed at an angle such that the screw head engagement tends to place more pressure on one end of the gate, which is further from the screw. The screw head includes a pair of spaced opposed walls which define a slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Geist, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Geist, Gerald H. Kroeker, Bernard L. Brehm
  • Patent number: 5291920
    Abstract: A combined control and regulating valve (1) having a housing (2) with an inlet (3) and an outlet (4) as well as a partition (5) between said inlet and outlet and having a seat (6) designed for an interaction with a main valve body (7), which is adjustable from outside. Said inlet and said outlet are connected to one measuring nipple each (31-39 and 41-49 respectively) for the measurement and the control of temperature and/or pressure. One of the measuring nipples (41-49) is designed as a multiple function nipple (50) having a cutt-off-function designed to interact with a seat (53) in a passage (40), which receives said nipple. In a housing neck (55), which encloses said nipple, are access openings (56) disposed, through which e.g. water can be discharged or filled, when said nipple is in its outer screwing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Tour & Andersson AB
    Inventors: Leif Glansk, Leif Marstorp
  • Patent number: 5277221
    Abstract: The space necessary for the installation of gas feed valves for domestic applications and the like of the type wherein gas feed valves take gas from a main gas feed duct and deliver it to gas using units is minimized by arranging the valves within the main gas feed duct, and by providing valves which include a valve body having at least one gas admission orifice opening directly within the gas space of the duct and a gas discharge, section opening outside of the duct. The valve body is fixedly arranged within the gas space of the duct by a suitable clamping arrangement, the valve body having a valve member concentrically arranged within the same for closing and opening the admission orifice and the discharge section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: Instituto Mexicano de Investigaciones de Manufacturas Metal Mechanicas, A.C.
    Inventor: Jose A. Amaya
  • Patent number: 5263683
    Abstract: A sliding sleeve valve for downhole use. A tubular main body has a radial flow port there-through and a primary annular seal carried adjacent its inner diameter and spaced longitudinally from the flow port in a first direction. A sleeve is carried co-axially within the main body for selective relative longitudinal movement. The sleeve has a seal section with an outer diameter sized to slidably sealingly engage the primary seal. The sleeve also has a radial aperture through the seal section and a recess in the outer surface of the seal section, surrounding and longer than the radially outer end of the aperture. The sleeve has a closed position, wherein the aperture and recess are longitudinally spaced from the primary seal in the first direction, and an open position, wherein the aperture is longitudinally spaced from the primary seal in a second direction opposite the first.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Assignee: Grace Energy Corporation
    Inventor: Fred S. Wong
  • Patent number: 5242827
    Abstract: An apparatus for the automatic, continuous cleaning of the pipe of a solar receptor of a photobioreactor also having a carbonator associated with the solar receptor. The solar receptor and the carbonator both being traversed in series in a closed loop by a nutrient medium solution. A branch duct being provided between an outlet and an inlet of the solar receptor to permit a circulation of cleaning balls therebetween. The apparatus including a motorized valve on a vertical portion of the branch duct for bringing about the automatic passage of the balls with the exclusion of the solution, as well as a pivoting sleeve placed in the inlet of the solar receptor, downstream of the junction with the branch duct. The sleeve serving as a support for a controllable manual valve and permitting the introduction or removal of cleaning balls with respect to the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1993
    Assignees: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique, Ussi-Ingenierie
    Inventors: Daniel Chaumont, Patrick Ferreira Dos Santos, Leopold Sauze
  • Patent number: 5144699
    Abstract: A plumbing drainage system has a plumbing stack with a clean-out hole formed therein. A drainage device for controlled drainage of the plumbing stack includes a device for connecting the drainage device to a plumbing stack at the clean-out hole formed in the plumbing stack. A shut-off valve is connected downstream of the first connecting device. A second connecting device is connected downstream of the shut-off valve for connection to a drainage hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1992
    Inventor: Kenneth Graham
  • Patent number: 5084189
    Abstract: An axial flow-type pump for separating immiscible fluids having different specific gravities and a discharge manifold fluid connected to the fluid pump for drawing of the fluid having the heavier specific gravity. The fluid pump employs a rotatable impeller mechanism having a hollow core and a decreasing axial pitch in the direction of fluid flow. The fluid interface between the pump and the discharge manifold is adjustable, so that the discharge of the fluid having the heavier specific gravity can be adjusted. The fluids are introduced into the inlet end of the rotatable impeller to produce a high velocity swirling action in the fluids and a low pressure area along the longitudinal axis of the flow line, to generate a high centrifugal force as the fluids move axially and cause the fluid having the heavier specific gravity to migrate to the perimeter. The discharge manifold is then used to draw off the fluid having a heavier specific gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1992
    Assignee: Richter Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Harvey E. Richter
  • Patent number: 4946077
    Abstract: An attachment for bleeding trapped air from hand-operated grease guns consists of an in-line valve for disposition between the gun and its output tube. The valve features an in-line fitting on which is threaded a hand-operated nut. When the nut is backed-off it opens a port in the fitting through which trapped air can be bled off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 7, 1990
    Inventor: LaVerne R. Olsen
  • Patent number: 4921677
    Abstract: There is disclosed a liquid-collecting compartment that is vented to allow air to escape. The compartment is improved in that a closure member is provided constructed so as to be slidable onto and off of the vent aperture with a force that is between about 0.15 newtons and about 20 newtons. To achieve this, an elastomeric member is provided in the closure member or the wall at the aperture, with selected properties of durometer, cold flow and static coefficient of friction against polystyrene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Charles C. Hinckley, Lewis T. Del Plato, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4890640
    Abstract: A drainage valve for use in pressure systems where pressure surges occur for draining an underground water system when the water pressure in the underground water system is off and for sealing the drainage valve against drainage when the water pressure is on comprising a housing having a first annular support and sealing surface and a second annular support and sealing surface for supporting a member that is nonextrudable through a drain passage in the drainage valve under normal operating pressures and surge pressures encountered in water supply systems and to permit said nonextrudable member to open said drain passage when the water pressure is off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1990
    Inventor: Lloyd H. King, Sr.
  • Patent number: 4718636
    Abstract: Purge branch coupling for a main flexible hose, reinforced or not, sheathed or unsheathed, of the type having the shape of a tubular insert which is intended to co-operate with a closure piece of its proximal extremity and which is integral with the main hose by moulding coating of a splicing material, particularly comprised of plastic or elastomer material. According to this invention, the tubular insert forming the purge branch coupling comprises a plurality of openings provided in its tubular wall so that the coating of said junction material, which penetrates into said openings during moulding establishes linking bridges between the portions of said coating which envelope the insert, thus providing for the holding in position of said insert. Application for couplings in lines of water, air and fuel circuits in motor vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1988
    Assignee: Hutchinson
    Inventor: Gilles Briet
  • Patent number: 4678367
    Abstract: A riser assembly for a sub-surface irrigation and drainage system is disclosed having a molded, housing defining a generally rectangular, elongated cavity. A divider within the housing divides the cavity into an upstream chamber and a downstream chamber. A drainage opening and a weir opening are defined by the divider, and slidable gate valves are disposed over each opening. By adjusting the positions of the gate valves, the upstream water level cable may be readily adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1987
    Inventor: James I. Warner
  • Patent number: 4671314
    Abstract: A homogeneous fluid sampling valve mounted into a high pressure or low pressure flow line or the like wherein homogeneous fluid is flowing therein, preferably the body of the valve mounted perpendicular to the flow with a small portion of the valve body extending into the flow line. There is further provided a bore through a conduit in the valve body for transporting fluid from the main flow line through the valve body and exterior to the valve. The valve body is further provided with an extended stem wherein there is rotatably mounted a thickened collar member having a spout in fluid communication with the bore when the collar member is placed in the open position and in fluid tight engagement with the valve body when the collar member is rotated to the closed position by a stationary sealing wafer. The collar member is maintained in fluid-tight engagement against the end of the valve body against the bias of a spring member engaged on the stem member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1987
    Inventor: John S. Heil
  • Patent number: 4664142
    Abstract: A pressure regulating device is proposed, which serves to regulate the fuel pressure in a fuel injection system for internal combustion engines. The pressure regulating device includes a pressure regulating valve which has a valve diaphragm fastened in a valve housing and defining a fuel chamber which communicates via an inflow opening with a fuel distributor line. Protruding into the fuel chamber is a valve seat body joined to the valve housing, on one end of which body a valve seat is formed and the other end of which is embodied as an outlet pipe that passes through the wall of the fuel distributor line. The fuel distributor line is formed of two shell halves inserted one inside the other, of which the first shell half has a tub-shaped end into which the pressure regulating valve is inserted and with which it is securely fastened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1987
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Richard Bertsch, Dieter Gunther, Claus Ruppmann
  • Patent number: 4586530
    Abstract: An arrangement for supplying consumers, particularly mobile consumers, with pressure fluids such as pressure air or pressure liquid, particularly in underground excavations, has a composite rail track for guiding a pressure fluid, a plurality of nipples arranged at a predetermined distance from one another in the longitudinal direction of the rail track, and at least one fluid withdrawing unit which cooperates with the nipples to open the latter and has a length selected with respect to the distance between two neighboring nipples so that one nipple is always located in the effective region of the withdrawing unit to be opened by the latter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1984
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1986
    Assignee: Bochumer Eisenhutte Heintzmann GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Peter Heintzmann, Manfred Koppers, Karlheinz Bohnes, Rolf-Peter Smektala
  • Patent number: 4575044
    Abstract: A lubricator section, useful for servicing wells, requiring no welds or threads to connect the box and pin union portions to the tubular body. The box and pin union portions are formed on the tubular body ends. A shoulder, retaining the connecting collar on the pin end, is provided by circular segments lockable between the collar and tubular body. A valve may be connected to the body to permanently lock the segments between the collar and body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1986
    Assignee: Otis Engineering Corporation
    Inventor: Ernest B. Gentry
  • Patent number: 4570600
    Abstract: A fuel rail assembly supports injectors for delivering fuel to an engine and includes a pressure regulator to establish the pressure of the fuel supplied to the injectors. The fuel rail body and the pressure regulator base are fabricated from sheet metal, and the pressure regulator base is secured directly to the fuel rail body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1986
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Terrance J. Atkins, Martin J. Field, Daniel Nolan
  • Patent number: 4543990
    Abstract: A valve is mountable in an opening in a gated pipe to control water flow, particularly in a cablegation system. A gasket is mountable in the irrigation pipe opening and a hollow leg of a T-shaped valve housing is inserted into the mounting member. The housing has a hollow, open-ended tubular portion which receives a hollow valve member. The valve member has an enlarged cap and a side opening alignable with the housing leg, the degree of alignment controlling the amount of flow. The valve member can also include a check valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1985
    Assignee: Aqua Control, Inc.
    Inventor: Guy A. Meuleman
  • Patent number: 4530486
    Abstract: A valve which is primarily useful in avoiding liquid being held or trapped around the exterior of a closure member used to close off the flow from an inlet to an outlet cavity through an opening after having been positioned so as to permit such flow can be constructed so that the terminal surface on the closure member appears as a continuation of the internal surface of the outlet cavity around the opening when the closure member is in this closed position. Preferrably, the outlet cavity is a cylindrical bore and the terminal surface of the closure member is a cylindrical surface having the same diameter as the bore. When the outlet cavity and the terminal surface are so shaped, a guide structure is used to control the movement of the valve closure member so that it can only be located in a closed position in which the cylindrical surface appears as a part of the cylindrical bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1983
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1985
    Assignee: City of Hope National Medical Center
    Inventor: Miro Rusnak
  • Patent number: 4437646
    Abstract: A "dump" valve for a concrete pumping line includes a tubular valve body for in-line connection in a distribution line and an end hinged cover plate for opening the valve. The valve includes a short rectangular discharge pipe, including flat walls, secured in a rectangular side wall opening in the valve body. The pipe has an outer flat end. A valve cover plate somewhat larger than the rectangular discharge pipe is provided with a sealing, gasketed face. The cover plate is hinged at one axial end to the valve body and is pivotally mounted to move between a closed position engaging the flat end of the discharge pipe and a pivoted depending open position in which the plate is swung clear of the bottom end of the discharge pipe section. An operating handle having an over-the-center latch linkage is coupled to the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1981
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1984
    Assignee: Construction Forms, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Bigelow, Terry Timmerman
  • Patent number: 4398694
    Abstract: A three member longitudinally slidable irrigation pipe gate for opening and closing an outlet port in a cylindrical irrigation pipe. The gate includes a base member slidingly abutting the inside wall surface of the irrigation pipe, a cover member slidingly abutting the outside wall surface of the pipe, and a U-shaped resilient spring disjointed from the base and cover members and securing them together to form an integral pipe gate structure. The spring is constructed from a resilient glass fiber filled acetal plastic to facilitate disassembly and repair of the pipe gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1983
    Assignee: Triad Corporation
    Inventor: Harold E. Damratowski
  • Patent number: 4382860
    Abstract: A filter for high pressure, high viscosity fluids, such as thermoplastic melts, in which a filter channel contains a valve with a stem equal to the largest diameter of the valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1983
    Assignee: Automatik Apparate-Maschinebau H. Hench GmbH
    Inventor: Rudolf Fritsch
  • Patent number: 4376523
    Abstract: A header pipe has an external sealing surface. A diaphram type control valve is externally mounted to the header pipe. An outlet pipe is mounted to the header pipe, enters and crosses the flow passage in the header pipe, and has a threaded end. The body of the control valve has a skirt which bears against the sealing surface, and a tube which is threaded onto the threaded end of the outlet pipe to mount the valve and to bring the skirt against the sealing surface. A peripheral seal fits between the skirt and the sealing surface. It may be a cup-sectioned seal which is pressure-biased to form the seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1981
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1983
    Inventor: Albert H. Goyen
  • Patent number: 4368751
    Abstract: This invention provides a valve by means of which a major portion of the suction flow of a swimming pool filtration system is channeled through an automatic cleaning device which cleans the floor and/or wall of a swimming pool, and a minor portion of the suction flow is drawn from the surface of the pool thereby to skim the surface. The valve has a main inlet opening connectable to the device, an outlet opening connectable to the filtration system and an auxiliary opening which is closed to some extent by a closure member to normally provide a restricted aperture through which the water drawn from the surface flows. The closure member is biassed closed by a spring located in a variable volume chamber which communicates with the interior of the valve between the auxiliary opening and the main inlet opening. When the restricted aperture is blocked by leaves or the like, the pressure in the chamber decreases, compressing the spring and allowing the closure member to open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1983
    Inventor: Fernand L. O. J. Chauvier