Mechanical Movement Trip Actuation Patents (Class 251/74)
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Patent number: 11850459Abstract: Various aspects of the invention are directed to a triggering device for a quickly triggering extinguishing system for explosion suppression. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the triggering device may include a pawl body having a pawl flank, a catch, at least one electromagnet to transmit an electromagnetic field, and a sliding pin. The sliding pin triggers an extinguishing system for explosion suppression by movement from a blocking position into a release position. In the blocking position, the sliding pin is pushed against the pawl flank of the pawl body by means of the catch and is held in the blocking position by said pawl flank. The pawl body releases the engagement of the catch and the pawl flank, and thereby releases the sliding pin, in response to the at least one electromagnet exerting the electromagnetic field on the pawl body.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2018Date of Patent: December 26, 2023Assignee: HOERBIGER WIEN GMBHInventors: Bernhard Spiegl, Christian Kernbichler, Matthias Kornfeld, Thomas Schragl
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Patent number: 11841088Abstract: A leakage mitigation system to trigger a preventive action against detected leakage from a liquid enclosure, includes a leakage detection device disposed along base of the liquid enclosure. The system includes an absorbent that actuates the leakage detection device from a first state to a second state based on a volume of liquid leaked from the liquid enclosure. The device includes a valve coupled to an inlet pipe of the liquid enclosure and configured to allow flow of liquid through the inlet pipe in an open condition thereof and restrict flow of liquid through the inlet pipe in a closed condition thereof. The system further includes a shut-off actuator coupled to the valve and configured to actuate the valve from the open condition to the closed condition in response to the device being actuated from the first state to the second state.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2021Date of Patent: December 12, 2023Assignee: Rheem Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Saman Beyhaghi, Atilhan Manay, Christopher Freeman, Chirag Gurukiran, Jesse T. Goodwin, Sarah H. Lincoln, William G. Plummer
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Patent number: 11519242Abstract: A stage cementing tool has a mandrel defining a central flow passage and a plurality of cementing passages in a wall thereof. A packer is disposed about the mandrel. A closing sleeve is detachably connected to and movable relative to the mandrel. An opening sleeve defining a plurality of fully open cement flow ports therethrough is telescopically movable relative to the closing sleeve and movable relative to the mandrel. The opening sleeve is movable to move the packer to the set position, and thereafter movable to open a cement flow path between the central flow passage and an annulus defined by the stage cementing tool and the wellbore.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2021Date of Patent: December 6, 2022Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Avinash Gopal Dharne, Lonnie Carl Helms, Ishwar Dilip Patil, Frank Vinicio Acosta
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Patent number: 11148688Abstract: A method and mechanism for initiating an emergency stop for an unattended railcar is disclosed. The method may include using a trip arm placed alongside the railway tracks at a designated stop point that may contact a portable trip-cock lever arm that extends out beyond the perimeter of the railcar if the railcar reaches the stop point as it moves along the track. The trip-cock lever arm may be attached to a valve that is connected to the pneumatic brake system of the unattended railcar. As the trip-cock lever arm rotates, the valve may open to release the air pressure in the pneumatic brake system causing the brakes to engage the wheels causing the railcar to stop.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2019Date of Patent: October 19, 2021Assignee: Enersul Inc.Inventors: Mark Charles Engelland, Trevor Michael Greer, David Alexander Shaw
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Patent number: 10940417Abstract: An air purification system to remove dust and other particulate matter from passing air is disclosed. The air purification system includes a housing. The housing includes a plurality of vents provided. Further, the housing includes an opening provided at a bottom of the housing. The air purification system includes a door hingedly coupled to the housing. Further, the air purification system includes an air filter removably inserted into the housing through the opening. The air filter is aligned with the plurality of vents. The door is closed to form a closed structure with the housing. The air filter is used to filter air passing through the plurality of vents and to collect dust and particulate matter. The air purification system is used as a standalone device such as forced air heating and air conditioning system or as an accessory to an existing forced air heating and air conditioning systems.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2019Date of Patent: March 9, 2021Inventor: Joshua Bishop
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Patent number: 9470890Abstract: A fogless mirror assembly includes a mirror enclosure and a water reservoir configured to be removably coupled to the mirror enclosure. The mirror enclosure includes a mirror and a frame defining an internal cavity having a water inlet and a water drain. The water reservoir defines a fluid cavity and includes a water outlet and an outlet valve configured to automatically open the water outlet when the water reservoir is coupled to the mirror enclosure such that a volume of water flows from the fluid cavity, into the internal cavity through the water inlet, and exits the internal cavity through the water drain to transfer thermal energy from the water to the mirror thereby increasing the temperature of the mirror from a starting temperature to at least approximately a dew point of water vapor proximate to mirror.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2014Date of Patent: October 18, 2016Assignee: Brookstone Purchasing, Inc.Inventor: Stephen B. Mills
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Patent number: 9262902Abstract: Apparatus and methods for tagging, or otherwise marking, a perpetrator or suspected perpetrator are provided. The apparatus includes a marker delivery device configured to mark the perpetrator, for example, with a canine scent or fluorescent marker; and a trigger configured to actuate the marker delivery device, for example, a button or switch. The marker delivery device may deliver a fluid or a solid to the clothes or accessories of a perpetrator when activated. The apparatus may also include a sensor adapted to detect the presence of the perpetrator, for example, an optical or mechanical sensor. The sensor may be adapted to detect the presence of the perpetrator in a target area of the marker delivery device. Methods of tagging are also disclosed. Aspects of the invention are uniquely adapted for convenience store or gas station security, but can also be applied in residential and office environments, among others.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2013Date of Patent: February 16, 2016Inventor: John Costa
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Patent number: 9217311Abstract: A flapper valve includes a housing, a seat movably disposed at the housing at least between a first position and a second position, a flapper movably disposed at the seat at least between a seated position and an unseated position and at least two biasing members. A first biasing member is configured to bias the flapper toward the unseated position and the second biasing member is configured to bias the flapper toward the seated position.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2012Date of Patent: December 22, 2015Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Gabriel A. Slup
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Patent number: 9204762Abstract: A drain closure device for a vessel such as a bathtub or sink is provided. The drain closure device comprises a stopper fitted with a sealing gasket and threaded onto a stem slidably mounted in a guide member which is in turn threaded into a strainer mounted in a hole in the bottom of the vessel. The device is concentrically disposed within the strainer. Twirling of the stopper causes the stem to rise and fall against an undulating cam surface of the guide. Resistance to closure is provided by rest stops for projections on the upper part of the stem. No spring, pins, or resistance seals are used. Once in place, the drain closure nests in the strainer.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2011Date of Patent: December 8, 2015Assignee: Oakville Stamping & Bending Ltd.Inventor: Christopher Adam McLeod
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Patent number: 8979063Abstract: Failsafe apparatus for use with linear actuators are disclosed. A failsafe apparatus for use with a linear actuator includes a spring to urge a first stem of a device to be operated by the linear actuator toward a failsafe position and a clutch to operatively couple a second stem of the linear actuator to the first stem. The clutch includes a frame coupled to one of the first stem or the second stem and jaws moveably coupled to the frame. The jaws are to engage the other one of the first stem or the second stem to enable the linear actuator to operate the device and to disengage the other one of the first stem or the second stem to enable the spring to move the first stem toward the failsafe position.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2011Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLCInventor: Ross Arthur Schade
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Publication number: 20150047722Abstract: An air shutoff valve includes a passage for supplying air, a swing gate, a shaft attached to a reset handle, and a spring to urge the gate toward its closed position. A trigger assembly secures the shaft and gate in the open position and includes an actuator, a cam, and a rocker arm. A cam surface of the arm has a notch to receive a sear point of the cam. Movement of the handle against the spring causes the cam contact surface of the cam to follow the cam surface to cause the arm to rotate such that the sear point is received in the notch. Actuating the actuator causes the arm to pivot away from the cam such that the sear point is released from the notch, wherein the spring causes the shaft to move the gate to its closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2014Publication date: February 19, 2015Inventors: Kamyar Molavi, Ken McClymonds
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Patent number: 8857459Abstract: An earthquake triggered and electronically controlled shutoff valve for allowing or preventing a flow of a fluid. The shutoff valve incorporates a weight positioned on a pedestal and disengaged from a surrounding moveable tube. Upon sufficient vibrational force, the weight moves from its resting position on the pedestal and engages with the moveable tube to block the flow of the fluid through the shutoff valve. In addition to vibrational forces, the shutoff valve may be electronically triggered via a connector electrically connected to one or more solenoids positioned within the shutoff valve. The solenoids may engage with the weight upon electrical stimulation or may engage with a moveable member coupled to the moveable tube. An energy storage unit provides power for the solenoids such that the solenoids may function in the absence of external power to the shutoff valve.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2012Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Transtector Systems, Inc.Inventors: Chris Penwell, Jonathan L. Jones
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Patent number: 8857458Abstract: A mechanical earthquake valve which enables the supply of the fluid (gas) passing through itself to be automatically stopped and restarted owing to the sensor that detects the seismic movement resulting from an earthquake and which comprises the combined use of said sensor mechanism and at least one valve.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2010Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Inventor: Ibrahim Colak
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Patent number: 8807523Abstract: A low-cost safety valve for gas lines and similar supply lines that can be remotely activated via a secure wireless link employing a low leakage sealing mechanism that is compatible with low energy actuators to for extended battery life. A miniaturized controller and wireless electronics assembly provides the control mechanism for actuating the valve, as well as reporting data regarding the valve status to wireless interrogators or external networks via an ad hoc wireless network. A variety of simple magnetic valve operating mechanisms can be implemented with the miniaturized electronic control circuits and the valve body. Such control actuation mechanisms enable automatic resetting or manual resetting valves. The gas line shut off valve can provide important safety benefits at an affordable price.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2013Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Gas Sentinel, LLCInventors: Barth R. Pitchford, John H. Pitchford, William D. Pitchford, Donald S. Pitchford, Steven Nagel, Benedict J. Nardi, Russell S. Smith, Robert Simon
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Patent number: 8800585Abstract: A high speed valve has a valve body having a flow passage therethrough, and a poppet disposed within the valve body. The poppet is movable between a first position in which the poppet blocks the flow passage and a second position, and the poppet has a piston connected to a stem at a proximal end of the stem. The valve also has a rotating lever release mechanism adjacent a distal end of the stem.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2011Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Kidde Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Joseph R. Jarrell, Clifton Ray Jones
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Patent number: 8776820Abstract: A valve actuation mechanism for a high rate discharge valve has a collet with fingers adjacent a valve member that provides restraint against displacement of the valve member at angularly spaced locations symmetrical about the axis of the valve member. Each collet finger has at least one projection adjacent a first end. The valve actuation mechanism also has a collet sleeve release mechanism with a main body portion having a first end and a second end. The main body portion contains an aperture with at least one land portion that secures each projection of the collet fingers. The main body portion also has an actuation pad at the second end, as well as a hinge mechanism for allowing rotational movement of the main body portion connected to the first end of the main body portion, and an actuation device that contacts the actuation pad.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2011Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Kidde Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Joseph R. Jarrell, Clifton Ray Jones
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Patent number: 8757191Abstract: A valve actuation mechanism has a plurality of links. Each link has a proximal end and distal end, and the links are disposed adjacent a valve member. The actuation mechanism also has at least one roller connected to the distal ends of at least two links. The roller contacts a surface of the valve member. In addition, at least one pivot for each link is present in the valve, wherein each pivot is positioned on the proximal end of each of the plurality of links.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2011Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Kiddie Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Doug John Baxendell, Rusty Rose, Daniel Ray MacLachlan
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Patent number: 8752806Abstract: A fluid-operated actuating drive (1) on a valve, in particular a shut-off, safety or regulating valve, comprising a base unit (2) having control valves, two linear actuators (6, 7) which are located opposite of each other and can be actuated fluidically, and a mechanical converter (5) which is arranged between the two linear actuators and couples the gates thereof to each other, wherein the outlet of the converter is coupled to the inlet of the valve. To this end, the actuating drive is composed in a modular manner of individual components joined to form a functional unit in the form of the base unit, the two linear actuators and the mechanical converter.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2012Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Assignee: Hoerbiger Automatisierungstechnik Holding GmbHInventors: Jochen Schaible, Marcus Groedl, Stephan Schelp, Norbert Eufinger
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Patent number: 8640729Abstract: An automatic shut-off valve shuts off fluid flow in the event of abnormal amounts of fluid flow. A rotor inside the valve turns when fluid flows through the valve. The rotor causes a pneumatic pump to operate and cause increased air pressure. The increased air pressure causes a shut-off piston to move to a closed position when a predetermined air pressure is achieved. The shut-off valve also includes an adjustable bleeder needle to slowly bleed off air pressure when the fluid flow stops and thereby resets the valve. A detent is provided for holding the shut-off piston in the open position. A detent spring and compression bolt are provided for adjusting force on the detent. The shut-off valve is manually closed using a trip arm connected to the detent. The shut-off piston is reset by actuating a reset plunger that moves the piston back to the open position.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2011Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Inventor: Brian Dana
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Patent number: 8616521Abstract: A fail safe retaining plug assembly for a slam-shut safety device includes a reset pin, a retaining plug attached to the reset pin at a proximal portion, and a safety disk attached to the reset pin at a distal portion. The retaining plug assembly is sufficiently long to prevent the safety disk from falling off of the distal portion before the safety disk contacts a valve seat. The retaining plug assembly is also sufficiently long to prevent the retaining plug from falling off of the reset pin before the safety disk contacts the valve seat.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2011Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Emerson Process Management Regulator Technologies, Inc.Inventors: David E. Woollums, Tung Nguyen, James C. Hawkins, Roman Alexandru-Vlad
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Patent number: 8596608Abstract: A sub sea valve actuator system including a piston and cylinder assembly and a return spring arranged in an actuator housing, a hydraulic pump and electric motor assembly associated with the piston and cylinder assembly, and hydraulic flow lines for hydraulic medium driving the piston and cylinder in relative displacement against a force of the return spring. The valve actuator system includes a detector configured to detect an end-of-stroke position of the piston and cylinder assembly. The detector includes at least one of: a motor current monitoring circuit unit, a hydraulic medium pressure sensor unit, a position sensor unit, and a linear variable differential transformer unit. An electromechanical arresting mechanism is arranged to be energized for releasably arresting the return spring in a compressed state in result of the detected end-of-stroke position.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2009Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: Veteo Gray Scandinavia ASInventors: Tom Grimseth, Christian Borchgrevink, Jon Flidh, Jan Olav Pettersen
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Patent number: 8567757Abstract: A low-cost safety valve for gas lines and similar supply lines that can be remotely activated via a secure wireless link employing a low leakage sealing mechanism that is compatible with low energy actuators to for extended battery life. A miniaturized controller and wireless electronics assembly provides the control mechanism for actuating the valve, as well as reporting data regarding the valve status to wireless interrogators or external networks via an ad hoc wireless network. A variety of simple magnetic valve operating mechanisms can be implemented with the miniaturized electronic control circuits and the valve body. Such control actuation mechanisms enable automatic resetting or manual resetting valves. The gas line shut off valve can provide important safety benefits at an affordable price.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2010Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Inventors: Barth R. Pitchford, John H. Pitchford, William D. Pitchford, Donald S. Pitchford, Steven Nagel, Benedict J. Nardi, Russell S. Smith, Robert Simon
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Patent number: 8523142Abstract: An actuator with a predetermined failure mode includes two carriers which are each moveable in a common direction. A detent is engageable to couple the carriers to move in unison. An electrically operated actuating device causes extension of the toggle linkage to operate the detent and collapse of the toggle linkage when de-energized. There is a prime mover for the first carrier and a return mover for causing return movement of the second carrier on the release of the detent. In an example, the detent includes a pivoted arm disposed on the first carrier and positioned to engage a part of the second carrier; and the toggle linkage includes a pair of relatively pivoted links connected between a pivot on the first carrier and a pivot on the arm.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Aker Subsea LimitedInventor: Anthony W Mann
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Publication number: 20130146315Abstract: A valve actuation mechanism for a high rate discharge valve has a collet with fingers adjacent a valve member that provides restraint against displacement of the valve member at angularly spaced locations symmetrical about the axis of the valve member. Each collet finger has at least one projection adjacent a first end. The valve actuation mechanism also has a collet sleeve release mechanism with a main body portion having a first end and a second end. The main body portion contains an aperture with at least one land portion that secures each projection of the collet fingers. The main body portion also has an actuation pad at the second end, as well as a hinge mechanism for allowing rotational movement of the main body portion connected to the first end of the main body portion, and an actuation device that contacts the actuation pad.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2011Publication date: June 13, 2013Applicant: KIDDE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Joseph R. Jarrell, Clifton Ray Jones
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Patent number: 8443823Abstract: A flood detection and valve shutoff device which comprises a water sensitive sensor. A mechanism is for retaining the water sensitive sensor on a floor near a water heater. Another mechanism is for biasing a valve in a water inlet pipe of the water heater to a closed position. A lanyard in a taut condition extends between the water sensitive sensor and the biasing mechanism, so as to keep the valve in an open position. When the water sensitive sensor detects water on the floor the lanyard will be released from the water sensitive sensor, causing the biasing means to move the valve from the open position to the closed position.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2011Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Inventor: Irwin D. Prager
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Publication number: 20120261005Abstract: A cam assembly for use in a slam-shut safety valve includes a cam having an elongated first cam arm, and the cam is pivotable about a rotational axis. The cam assembly also includes a torsional spring having a pair of stationary outer arms and a pair of pivotable inner arms, wherein the pair of stationary inner arms is coupled to a portion of the first cam arm. The pair of inner arms is adapted to act on the first cam arm to bias the cam into a position that allows the cam to be relatched in a valve rearming process. The pair of inner arms is symmetrically disposed about the first cam arm to prevent lateral displacement of the cam.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2012Publication date: October 18, 2012Applicant: EMERSON PROCESS MANAGEMENT REGULATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Theodor Cojocaru, Adrian Valean, Roman Alexandru-Vlad
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Patent number: 8196604Abstract: A deployable automated vent cover device includes a vent cover and a telescopic pole. The vent cover includes a vent base, a first vent door, a second vent door and a release mechanism. The release mechanism includes a solenoid, a pivot release, a first latch device and a second latch device. The vent base preferably includes a base plate with two openings, and a vent seal. The first and second vent doors are pivotal attached to the base plate. The first latch device is retained on the base plate and the second latch device is retained on the base plate. The first and second latch devices retain the first and second vent doors in a closed orientation. The pivot release is pivotally connected to the solenoid and to the first and second latch devices. The solenoid is actuated to open the first and second vent doors through the pivot release.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2010Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Inventors: Jonathan J. Ricciardi, Carl L. Ricciardi, John D. Wolf, II
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Patent number: 8104504Abstract: An assembly is for extremely fast opened lids systems, where compressed gases or liquids or oils are used. Mainly, the removable lid is comprised of a lid, a lid platform, a dynamic hinging mechanism, and a releasing mechanism. A final action could be via means of mechanical or electrical via an action of a solenoid.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2009Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Inventors: Vladislav Oleynik, Gennadiy Albul
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Patent number: 8061380Abstract: A tripper unit for actuating a device (e.g. valve-closing actuator) upon contact with water. Basically, the tripper unit is comprised of a housing having a replaceable cartridge therein which, in turn, is wrapped with an adsorbent paper which prevents a plunger from moving downward. When a leak occurs, water will flow into the housing and into contact with the absorbent paper which will quickly disintegrate to allow a compression spring in said housing to move the plunger downward to thereby actuate the unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2008Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Inventors: James B. Martin, Lloyd G. Jones
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Patent number: 8006714Abstract: An automatic flow shut-off unit for shutting off water to an appliance (e.g. commode) when a leak or overflow occurs. The unit includes an outer housing having a ball valve mounted thereon wherein the valve is connected between the water supply and the appliance. A tripper unit is mounted in the outer housing and has a plunger therein. The valve is connected to the plunger by a length of actuation material (e.g. flexible cable). A compression spring is positioned in the tripper unit to normally bias the plunger downwards. A cartridge having a water reactive material (e.g. commercially-available toilet paper) thereon is removably mounted in the outer housing wherein the water reactive material when dry supports the plunger in a cocked position but which will quickly weaken and disintegrate upon contact with water.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2009Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Inventors: James B. Martin, Lloyd G. Jones
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Patent number: 7814924Abstract: A safety valve is positioned in supply plumbing that supplies a fluid medium such as natural gas to a point of use structure such as a home. A mechanical actuator is provided remote from the safety valve but mechanically connected to the safety valve. This allows the actuator to be positioned, for example, directly on the point of use structure, avoiding the need for separate bracing for the valve. The valve can be provided with a tee fitting or can be a separate gate valve. The mechanical actuator can be actuated by seismic disturbance, manually, or by activation by remote sensor or home security system.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2006Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Inventor: James C. McGill
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Patent number: 7751959Abstract: A suspension system includes four electronically controlled actuators, one at each of the four wheels. The actuators are each controlled by an electronic control unit. The left front and right front actuators are mechanically connected with each other. The left rear and the right rear actuators are also mechanically connected with each other. The only connection between the front two actuators and the rear two actuators is an electronic communication through the electronic control unit.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2006Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: Tenneco Automotive Operating Company Inc.Inventors: Peter Boon, Koen Reybrouck
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Patent number: 7703476Abstract: A trigger mechanism is provided for a water heater fail safe valve assembly which automatically shuts off the flow of water to a water heater when leakage of water from the water heater is detected in an underlying catch tray. The trigger mechanism includes a vertical housing having a drive rod which is upwardly urged by a spring and holds a resilient valve closing component. A cam member holds the drive rod down, representing the open state of the valve. An accumulation of water in the catch tray causes the cam member to release the drive rod to an upper position which closes the valve.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2007Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Inventor: James H. Carroll
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Patent number: 7665482Abstract: A mechanism for opening or closing a shut off valve, the mechanism having a lever mounted on a spindle to which the valve is attached for mounting the valve from a normally open position to a closed position. A trigger mechanism including the lever and a biasing spring which when activated, rotates the lever, spindle and valve. A retainer mechanism ordinarily holds the trigger mechanism in a cocked position corresponding to the open position of the valve. The float, when subjected to water, releases the retainer mechanism permitting the trigger mechanism to close the valve.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2007Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Inventor: Kerry McLean
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Publication number: 20090194718Abstract: A smart drain valve comprises a support plate, a bolt passing through a center of the support plate, an outer plate connected to a first end of the bolt, an inner plate connected to a second end of the bolt, and a spring positioned between the inner plate and the support plate. The spring is made of a shape memory material.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2008Publication date: August 6, 2009Inventor: Richard L. Kulesha
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Patent number: 7562673Abstract: An automatic system which includes a tripper unit for actuating a device (e.g. valve-closing actuator) upon contact with water. Basically, the tripper unit is comprised of a housing having a cartridge therein which prevents a plunger from moving downward. When a leak occurs, water will flow into the housing and into contact with the cartridge which will quickly disintegrate allowing the plunger to move downward to thereby actuate the valve actuator to close the valve. The tripper unit may be a separate component of the system or both the tripper unit and the valve actuator can be incorporated into a single unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2006Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Inventors: James B. Martin, Lloyd G. Jones
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Publication number: 20090127485Abstract: The present invention describes a valve actuator having a first motor (30) for moving a valve element and a second motor (30?) for energizing a failsafe spring (130). The second motor is operated independently from the first, thus allowing the valve element to be moved between its open and closed positions while the spring is energized. In an emergency, the spring will be de-energized and move the valve element to its failsafe position no matter the position of the valve element.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2005Publication date: May 21, 2009Applicant: FMC KONGSBERG SUBSEA ASInventors: Jorgen Wessel, Vidar Sten-Halvorsen, Torstein Kasin, John A. Johansen
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Patent number: 7509973Abstract: A system to prevent an excess flow of water to a toilet tank in the event of a failure of a primary flow control assembly including a novel secondary shut-off valve which is automatically disposed into an initialized configuration upon completion of a normal flush cycle, but which is disposed into a closed configuration in the event of a failed flush cycle.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2006Date of Patent: March 31, 2009Inventor: Manuel Deive
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Patent number: 7424896Abstract: An automatic system which includes a tripper unit for actuating a device (e.g. valve-closing actuator) upon contact with water. Basically, the tripper unit is comprised of a housing having a cartridge therein which, in turn, is wrapped with an adsorbent paper which prevents a plunger from moving downward. When a leak occurs, water will flow into the housing and into contact with the absorbent paper which will quickly disintegrate allowing the plunger to move downward to thereby actuate the valve actuator to close the valve. The tripper unit may be a separate component of the system or both the tripper unit and the valve actuator can be incorporated into a single unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2005Date of Patent: September 16, 2008Inventors: James B. Martin, Lloyd G. Jones
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Patent number: 7322423Abstract: A fire protection system comprises a supply pipe having a first fluid pressurized to a first pressure and a network of pipes having a plurality of sprinklers. The network of pipes have a second fluid being pressurized to a second pressure at approximately 5.5 times the first pressure. The system further comprises a dry pipe valve including a body defining a passage extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet coupled to the supply pipe and an outlet coupled to the network of pipes. The inlet has an inlet diameter of approximately WD inches and a seat disposed in the body has a seating surface with a diameter AD approximately less than two times WD inches. The dry pipe valve further includes a clapper pivotable about an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis between a first position occluding the passage when the ratio of the second pressure to the first pressure is at least 5.5 and a second position permitting fluid flow through the passage when the ratio is less than 5.5.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Grinnell LLCInventor: Yoram Ringer
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Patent number: 7082959Abstract: A pilot operated shutoff valve system with leak detector for automatically shutting off a water supply to appliances such as a clothes washing machine, dishwashing machine, sink, toilet, or refrigerator equipped with an ice maker, comprising a sealing member movable within said valve body between an open position wherein the sealing member does not block main fluid flow, and a closed position wherein the sealing member blocks main fluid flow.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2006Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Inventor: Robert C. Franklin
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Patent number: 6968852Abstract: A shock responsive fluid valve assembly capable of automatically closing a fluid valve in response to earthquake forces or other shock forces of a predetermined magnitude. The shock responsive valve assembly has a flow control mechanism having a cradle that holds a movable ball in a recess at a point perpendicular in relation to a horizontal base plate, where the ball can be rotated 360° in any direction during seismic actions or other shock forces and rolls out of its recess at a predetermined force such that it ricochets off a housing cover covering the cradle and pushes a trip fork mechanism having elongated walls to provide additional leverage when the force strikes the trip fork mechanism that is mounted on a pivoting mechanism, thereby releasing a swing arm which has a disc on the end that functions as a plug for the hole in the valve body to interrupt gas or fluid flow therein.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2004Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Assignee: Pacific Seismic Products, Inc.Inventor: Richard D. Sibley
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Patent number: 6926025Abstract: A vertical shock responsive fluid valve assembly capable of automatically closing a fluid valve in response to earthquake forces or other shock forces of a predetermined magnitude. The vertical shock responsive valve assembly has a flow control mechanism having a cradle that holds a movable ball in a recess at a point perpendicular in relation to a horizontal base plate, where the ball can be rotated 360° in any direction during seismic actions or other shock forces and rolls out of its recess at a predetermined force such that it ricochets off a housing cover covering the cradle and pushes a trip fork mechanism having elongated walls to provide additional leverage when the force strikes the trip fork mechanism that is mounted on a pivoting mechanism, thereby releasing a swing arm which has a disc on the end that functions as a plug for the hole in the valve body to interrupt gas or fluid flow therein.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2002Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: Pacific Seismic Products, Inc.Inventors: Richard D. Sibley, Richard F. Christensen, Sr., William F. Keller
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Patent number: 6899122Abstract: Safety shutoff apparatus can close a valve using a pressure operable device coupled to and acting upon the valve. The proximal end of a pressure line is coupled to the pressure operable device for applying fluid pressure thereto in order to operate the pressure operable device. A soluble plug at the distal end of the pressure line can seal it in order to maintain pressure at the pressure operable device. By placing the soluble plug next to an object that is subject to leaking, the soluble plug can dissolve when a leak occurs and release the pressure in the pressure line. The released pressure results in closure of the valve when mechanical movement is produced by the pressure operable device in response to the release of pressure.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2004Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Inventor: Albert Mele
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Patent number: 6895990Abstract: Apparatus for automatically shutting off the water supply to a leaking water heater includes a water collecting tray positionable beneath the heater, a valve mechanism attachable to the tray, a float mechanism, and an action arm interactive between the float mechanism and valve mechanism. When water collects in the tray, the float mechanism rises, causing the action arm to trigger the release of a spring-urged component of the valve mechanism to discontinue flow of water to the heater.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2004Date of Patent: May 24, 2005Inventor: James H. Carroll
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Patent number: 6837256Abstract: A spring loaded valve member with a poppet on one end is disposed in a fuel tank with the inlet end connected to the filler tube. The valve member has a spool valve attached to the poppet. The poppet is opened by fuel discharging from a refueling nozzle and the valve member movement limited by a float operated latch such that fuel flows through the spool valve ports. Upon the float rising in the tank, the latch is released permitting the force of the flowing fuel to further move the valve member to close the spool valve.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2002Date of Patent: January 4, 2005Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventor: Robert P. Benjey
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Patent number: 6820856Abstract: A disclosed is a 2-way 2-position fluid control valve assembly operable to manually open and automatically block fluid flow therethrough. The fluid control valve assembly includes a valve and an electromagnetic actuator having an armature and a pole piece. The valve is biased to its closed position whereat the armature is spaced away from the pole piece. The armature is manually movable to contact the pole piece while opening the valve. The armature and the pole piece are latchable together, with only residual magnetism, only when there is zero air gap or substantially zero air gap between the armature and the pole piece. When latched, the armature and the pole piece remain in that state until they are delatched by canceling at least enough of the residual magnetism so that the biased valve closes while the armature moves away from the pole piece.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2003Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: Sturman BG, LLCInventor: Benjamin Grill
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Patent number: 6810963Abstract: A differential-type dry pipe valve for a fire protection sprinkler system has a ratio of effective air sealing area to service water sealing area that is smaller than a ratio of service water pressure to system air pressure at which the fire protection sprinkler system is actuated.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2003Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: Grinnell CorporationInventor: Yoram Ringer
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Patent number: 6792967Abstract: A latched, spring loaded valve having a water sensor and an activation mechanism shuts off water supply, when a water leak is detected, to specific application as cloths washing machines, dishwashing machines, sinks, toilets, and refrigerators equipped with ice makers. The shutoff valve system with leak detector has a sealing member movable with a valve body between an open position and a closed position wherein the sealing member blocks fluid flow.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2003Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Inventor: Robert C. Franklin
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Patent number: 6789560Abstract: A vertical shock responsive fluid valve assembly capable of automatically closing a fluid valve in response to earthquake forces or other shock forces of a predetermined magnitude. The vertical shock responsive valve assembly has a flow control mechanism having a cradle that holds a movable ball in a recess at a point perpendicular in relation to a horizontal base plate, where the ball can be rotated 360° in any direction during seismic actions or other shock forces and rolls out of its recess at a predetermined force such that it ricochets off a housing cover covering the cradle and pushes a trip fork mechanism having elongated walls to provide additional leverage when the force strikes the trip fork mechanism that is mounted on a pivoting mechanism, thereby releasing a swing arm which has a disc on the end that functions as a plug for the hole in the valve body to interrupt gas or fluid flow therein.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2003Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Pacific Seismic Products, Inc.Inventors: Richard D. Sibley, William F. Keller, Dayna Sibley Stoner