Fluid And Motor Controls Have Common Sensing Element Patents (Class 417/28)
  • Patent number: 11259928
    Abstract: A multifunctional prosthetic heart valve tester having a circuit of fluid channels, wherein the circuit has a main loop of fluid channel capable of providing a first flow path for a testing fluid. There can be a first branch-off point on the main loop having a first branch channel branching off and fluidly connecting the main loop to a three-way connection. There is a second branch-off point on the main loop having a second branch channel branching off and fluidly connecting the main loop to the three-way connection. A third branch-off point is provided on the main loop having a third branch channel branching off and fluidly connecting the main loop to the three-way connection. There is linear motor and a steady-flow pump disposed on the circuit. Wherein selective shut off of certain channels and selective on/off of the linear motor/steady flow pump allows the device to test the prosthetic valve in the following modes: the steady forward flow mode, steady backward flow mode, pulsatile mode, and hybrid mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Inventor: Shouyan Lee
  • Patent number: 11248599
    Abstract: A system for monitoring a dual cylinder concrete pumping apparatus and a transition valve operated by an actuator. The system including position sensors to detect the position of pistons in the dual cylinders and the actuator. Additional sensors can monitor various aspects of the concrete pumping apparatus. A processor receives information from the sensors and transmits data to a monitor. When sensor data is outside of predetermined parameters, the processor sends an alert notice and a performance snapshot of the system to the monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Inventor: Julio Vasquez
  • Patent number: 11162484
    Abstract: Provided herein are systems that enable proportional air flow delivery control for an air compressor. One system includes a pneumatic air compression system having a flow control member and being adapted to receive inlet air and to compress the inlet air to produce compressed air. The system also includes a pneumatic flow control system including a proportional control valve having a proportionally variable activation state. Varying the activation state of the proportional control valve regulates a pressure acting on the flow control member to regulate the flow of the compressed air produced by the pneumatic air compression system in a variable manner, and further regulates a power demand placed on the engine by the pneumatic air compression system in a variable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Gene Peotter, Mark E. Peters
  • Patent number: 11135694
    Abstract: A minimum quantity lubrication system for accurately measuring and controlling a volume and pressure of a lubricating fluid provided to a machining tool during minimum quantity lubrication machining operations. The minimum quantity lubrication system can further include measuring and controlling a volume and pressure of air provided during machining such that atomization of the lubricating fluid with the air can be controlled. Use of a continuous volumetric flow pump provides a continuous flow of lubricating fluid to the tool during machining operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Assignee: Unist, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy John Bangma, Charles W. Boelkins
  • Patent number: 11098848
    Abstract: A system for distributing semisolid lubricant, including a semisolid lubricant tank and a high pressure pumping system that intermittently feeds, during a lubrication cycle, at least one first duct, the at least one first duct feeding a plurality of distributors adapted to sort the semisolid lubricant to a plurality of users; a controlled suction/delivery device, fluidly associated with the first duct, for controlled suction/delivery of a part of the semisolid lubricant conveyed by the first duct. The controlled suction/delivery device configured to suck a volume of semisolid lubricant from the first duct during a step of inactivity of the pumping system on the first duct, and to introduce the previously suctioned semisolid lubricant in the first duct during a step of activity of the pumping system on the first duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: DROPSA S.p.A.
    Inventor: Walter Divisi
  • Patent number: 11015604
    Abstract: A high side compressor system includes a compressor housing, motor, and a compression chamber. The compression chamber is disposed within the compressor housing. An accumulator is fluidly coupled to the compressor housing via a pressure-equalization tube. A pressure-equalization valve is disposed in the pressure-equalization tube. The pressure-equalization valve closes access to the pressure-equalization tube responsive to an electrical current being applied to the pressure-equalization valve. The pressure-equalization valve is electrically coupled to a compression mechanism such that interruption of electrical current to the compression mechanism interrupts electrical current to the pressure-equalization valve thereby opening the pressure-equalization valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: Lennox Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Shawket Ayub, Brandon Ullrich
  • Patent number: 10931218
    Abstract: A vacuum pump drive comprising at least one electric motor which is connected to the rotor of a vacuum pump via a drive shaft, a frequency converter which is electrically connected to the motor and which supplies a motor input voltage to the motor, and a switchover device with at least one electric switch. The switchover device is designed to connect the motor windings in a star or delta shape depending on the switching position of the switch in order to change the motor characteristic curve. The vacuum pump drive also comprises a measuring device with sensors for detecting physical operating variables of the vacuum pump and a controller which is electrically or optically connected to the switchover device and the measuring device and which is designed to actuate the at least one switch on the basis of the measured value of the operating variable of the vacuum pump in order to produce the star-delta switchover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: LEYBOLD GMBH
    Inventor: Sebastian Walzel
  • Patent number: 10487832
    Abstract: A high side compressor system includes a compressor housing, motor, and a compression chamber. The compression chamber is disposed within the compressor housing. An accumulator is fluidly coupled to the compressor housing via a pressure-equalization tube. A pressure-equalization valve is disposed in the pressure-equalization tube. The pressure-equalization valve closes access to the pressure-equalization tube responsive to an electrical current being applied to the pressure-equalization valve. The pressure-equalization valve is electrically coupled to a compression mechanism such that interruption of electrical current to the compression mechanism interrupts electrical current to the pressure-equalization valve thereby opening the pressure-equalization valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: Lennox Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Shawket Ayub, Brandon Ullrich
  • Patent number: 10235322
    Abstract: An adapter assembly includes an adapter board. A first connector assembly is coupled to the adapter board and is configured to releasably electrically couple the adapter board to a high-availability IT component. A second connector assembly is coupled to the adapter board and is configured to releasably couple the adapter board to a non-hot-swappable industry standard expansion card. The adapter board includes hot swap logic configured to enable the non-hot-swappable industry standard expansion card to function as a hot-swappable industry standard expansion card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: EMC IP Holding Company LLC
    Inventors: James L. Pringle, Jr., Daniel Dufresne, Stephen E. Strickland
  • Patent number: 10202968
    Abstract: Provided herein are systems that enable proportional air flow delivery control for an air compressor. One system includes a pneumatic air compression system having a flow control member and being adapted to receive inlet air and to compress the inlet air to produce compressed air. The system also includes a pneumatic flow control system including a proportional control valve having a proportionally variable activation state. Varying the activation state of the proportional control valve regulates a pressure acting on the flow control member to regulate the flow of the compressed air produced by the pneumatic air compression system in a variable manner, and further regulates a power demand placed on the engine by the pneumatic air compression system in a variable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Gene Peotter, Mark E. Peters
  • Patent number: 9382798
    Abstract: A method of controlling fluid flow in a fluid network system by means of a plurality of fluid machines. The disclosure provides a simple empirical method of identifying network characteristics of the fluid network system used for providing the required fluid flow rate in the fluid network system utilizing minimal fluid machine power. The method includes the steps of determining a relation between a change in fluid machine speed and a corresponding change in fluid flow rate for each of the plurality of fluid machines empirically; determining a minimum total fluid machine power which provides a minimum required flow rate in the fluid network system based on a constraint involving the relation between the fluid flow rate and the corresponding fluid machine speed, and controlling a speed of the plurality of fluid machines such that the minimum total fluid machine power in the fluid network system is attained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: ABB Research Ltd.
    Inventors: Michael Lundh, Jan Nyqvist
  • Patent number: 9140267
    Abstract: A compressor housing defines a gas inlet flow path and a gas outlet and a rotatable impeller wheel between the gas inlet flow path and the gas outlet. An inner wall of the housing defines a surface in close proximity to radially outer edges of impeller wheel vanes that sweep across the surface as the wheel rotates. An opening is provided in the inner wall at the surface. A port is provided in the housing in gas communication with the opening for diverting gas in a direction away from the inlet flow path during relatively low flow conditions. A gas displacement device is disposed outside of the inlet flow path and connected to the port, wherein the pump is operable to remove gas selectively through the opening and the port in a direction away from the inlet flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: Cummins Turbo Technologies Limited
    Inventor: Nicholas Sharp
  • Patent number: 9133759
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are disclosed for diverting a portion of intake airflow from a pressure source to an air compressor in an internal combustion engine system. The intake airflow is diverted for air compressor airflow at the intake of the pressure source before it is pressurized by the pressure source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: Cummins Inc.
    Inventor: Dale G. Gibby
  • Patent number: 8956125
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for determining a flow rate indicator relating to the output flow rate of one or more activated pumps of a pumping station. The pumping station includes a well to be at least partially emptied by the pumps and an inlet through which inflow can be supplied into the well. The method includes the step of determining, using a computational device, an operating condition relating to the activated pumps. The pumps are temporarily deactivated and an inflow rate indicator relating to the inflow is determined using the computational device, responsive to the determination of the operating condition. The method further includes the step of determining, using the computational device, the flow rate indicator using the determined inflow rate indicator. The present invention is equally applicable to a well to be at least partially filled by the pumps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Multitrode Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Stuart McMillan Duncan
  • Patent number: 8936443
    Abstract: An approach is provided in which a cooling manager detects a failed fan included in an electronic enclosure. The electronic enclosure includes multiple fans that each cool different component areas in the electronic enclosure. The cooling manager selects an airflow compensator that corresponds to a functioning fan included in the electronic enclosure, which includes a fixed perforated member and a movable perforated member. In turn, the cooling manager adjusts the selected airflow compensator to redirect a portion of airflow generated by the functioning fan to the component area corresponding to the failed fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Benjamin William Mashak, Arden Lot Moore, Katie L. Pizzolato
  • Patent number: 8926291
    Abstract: A liquid pump control system for dry run avoidance and re-prime detection. Pump dry run conditions can be detected with improved sensitivity by measuring pump cycle speed. Pump cycle speed is determined from sensors including pressure sensors, diaphragm end of stroke indicators, check valve movement sensors, and other techniques. A controller closes a valve to reduce pump cycle speed by reducing drive air pressure or by deadheading the pump liquid outlet. When the pump re-primes, the valve is opened, pump cycle speed increases, and pumping volume flow rate increases until a dry run condition is again encountered. Time delays can be introduced to delay shutting down or restarting the pump, for example to give a liquid source tank time to refill. The improved control sensitivity provides improved shut-down and re-start performance, reducing wear on the pump and reducing wasted drive air and energy consumption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventors: Michael Orndorff, Scott Driscoll, Jevawn Roberts
  • Patent number: 8926333
    Abstract: A device for simulating blood flow including an anatomical unit and a waveform generator for generating waveforms. The waveform generator includes a pump capable of pumping a fluid through at least one fluid line and thereby transmitting the waveform from the waveform generator through the fluid line. The waveform generator further includes a bifurcation point capable of splitting the fluid line into additional fluid lines, where the fluid lines include a main line and a parallel line. Additionally, the waveform generator includes valves capable of at least partially occluding fluid flow. The device further includes a reservoir capable of housing the fluid, where the waveforms enter and exit the anatomical unit and the waveform generator through the fluid lines simulating blood flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: SIMNEXT, LLC
    Inventors: John Vozenilek, Thomas Cusack, Sabeen Admani, Eliot Bethke, Michael Regan
  • Publication number: 20140263451
    Abstract: A pumping system comprises a pump, first and second channels, a valve, and an actuator. The pump pumps fluid according to a pumping cycle. The first channel has a first fluid flow orifice with a first diameter, while the second channel has a second fluid flow orifice with a second diameter greater than the first diameter. The valve is configured to direct fluid from the pump to the first channel in a first state, and to the second channel in a second state. The actuator is configured to switch the valve into the first state during a high pressure period of the pumping cycle, and into the second state during a low pressure period of the pumping cycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: GRACO MINNESOTA INC.
    Inventors: Daniel P. Ross, Paul R. Quam, Robert J. Lind, Douglas B. Farrow, John S. Lihwa, Joseph E. Tix, Mark J. Brudevold, Mark T. Weinberger, Mark W. Sheahan, Shaun M. Cook, Nicholas D. Long, Michael J. Sebion
  • Patent number: 8764405
    Abstract: An approach is provided in which a cooling manager detects a failed fan included in an electronic enclosure. The electronic enclosure includes multiple fans that each cool different component areas in the electronic enclosure. The cooling manager selects an airflow compensator that corresponds to a functioning fan included in the electronic enclosure, which includes a fixed perforated member and a movable perforated member. In turn, the cooling manager adjusts the selected airflow compensator to redirect a portion of airflow generated by the functioning fan to the component area corresponding to the failed fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Benjamin William Mashak, Arden Lot Moore, Katie L. Pizzolato
  • Patent number: 8763638
    Abstract: A check valve comprising a valve housing, which comprises an inlet, an outlet, and a valve channel. The valve channel connects the inlet to the outlet and has a valve seat. The check valve further comprises a closure part, which cooperates with the valve seat, and a tappet bearing the closure part. An end of the tappet which is remote from the closure part bears a control piston, which together with a cylinder wall defines a control chamber, which is connected a control connection. The control chamber is connected to the valve channel by means of a connection channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Duerr Dental AG
    Inventor: Alfred Deubler
  • Patent number: 8684699
    Abstract: A pump for a high-pressure cleaning appliance for delivering cleaning liquid is provided. The pump has a pump housing with at least one pump chamber into which at least one piston plunges. The pump chamber is connected via at least one inlet valve to a suction line and via at least one outlet valve to a pressure line. A bypass line leads from the pressure line to the suction line. An overflow valve is arranged in the bypass line. The valve body of the overflow valve is connected to a control element which, in dependence upon the flow rate of the cleaning liquid, displaces the valve body to a closed or an open position. A rear housing component and a front housing component of the pump housing are joined together. The bypass line opens into a suction line section of the suction line, which extends between the housing components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Alfred Kaercher GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Robert Nathan, Juergen Erdmann
  • Patent number: 8662856
    Abstract: A pump control system includes a source of pressurized fluid an output valve adjustably controls the flow of pressurized fluid from the source. An output valve control is coupled to the output valve and monitors the actual state of the output valve. The control selectably adjusts the output valve in response to a first control signal. A controller is coupled to the output valve control, the controller receiving information from the output valve control corresponding to the actual state of the output valve and providing to the output valve control the first control signal, the first control signal being applied to the output valve to achieve and maintain a desired state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Akron Brass Co.
    Inventors: Jerry Christensen, Jeff Benson, David Durstine
  • Patent number: 8308440
    Abstract: A vacuum processing apparatus having a vacuum chamber includes a gate valve arranged in the vacuum chamber and including a valve body which moves in a direction relative to an exhaust port of the vacuum chamber to open/close the exhaust port, and a driving unit configured to move the valve body, a connecting portion having one end connected to the exhaust port of the vacuum chamber and formed in a direction inclined from a moving direction of the valve body, and an exhaust pump connected to an opposite end of the connecting portion and capable of evacuating an interior of the connecting portion. The driving unit includes (i) a rod serving as a driving shaft which drives the valve body in a direction to close the exhaust port or a direction to open the exhaust port, and (ii) a cylinder driving the rod, and the rod extends parallel to a moving direction of the valve body and supports the valve body at one end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Canon Anelva Corporation
    Inventor: Yasuyuki Shirai
  • Patent number: 8241007
    Abstract: An oil-injection screw compressor includes a blow-off valve disposed on the discharge side of the compressor body and capable of releasing a quantity of air beyond the discharge capacity of the compressor body when operating of the motor at the minimum number of revolutions; a suction non-return valve which, disposed on the suction side of the compressor body, is closed when it is at a stop; and a pressure sensor for detecting the discharge side pressure of the compressor body; and, a controller which, at the time of operation of the motor at the minimum number of revolutions, opens the blow-off valve when the discharge side pressure P detected by the pressure sensor has risen to a prescribed upper limit Pu and closes the blow-off valve when it has fallen to a prescribed control pressure Po.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideharu Tanaka
  • Patent number: 8176735
    Abstract: A control device for multi-stage turbochargers is provided that is capable of improving fuel consumption in transient and stationary states of an engine equipped with multi-stage turbochargers. A control device 1 for multi-stage turbochargers which are turbochargers 6, 7 of at least two or more stages provided in series at an engine 2 and in which the high-pressure stage turbocharger 6 is configured by a variable-capacity turbocharger 6 equipped with a variable vane 64 comprising detection means 11, 12 for detecting a boost pressure or an intake air amount of a turbocharger 7 of a stage with a pressure lower than that of the variable-capacity turbocharger 6, the opening degree of the variable vane 64 being controlled on the basis of a detection value of the detection means 11, 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Isuzu Motors Limited
    Inventor: Akira Komatsu
  • Patent number: 8162619
    Abstract: A system for controlling the pressure output of an engine-driven centrifugal fire pump includes a discharge pressure sensor mounted in the discharge line of the pump. A governor varies the rpms of the engine in response to pressure changes detected by the discharge pressure sensor. If the pressure in the system is higher than the desired output pressure when the engine is running at its idle speed an electronically controlled hydraulic relief valve responsive to the discharge pressure sensor operates to relieve the excess pressure in over pressure situations. If the pressure in the system is lower than the desired output pressure when the relief valve is fully closed, the engine speed is increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Hale Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael A. Laskaris
  • Patent number: 8069950
    Abstract: A device that relieves lubricant pressure in a divider block lubrication system into a fluid reservoir, a container, or directly back into the compressor frame to which the tubing is connected. This eliminates housekeeping, environmental, safety, and compressor component failure concerns associated with current atmospheric rupture assemblies that relieve directly to the atmosphere. The environmental compressor protection assembly contains a spring set to a pre-determined pressure. Lubricant pressure in excess of this pre-determined set pressure results in spring compression and opening of a relief path. The assembly preferably remains in a full open position and must be must be manually reset to the closed position to prevent fluid flow in the system. The relief path can lead to a fluid reservoir, a container, or directly back into the compressor frame. Flow of lubricant through the relief path results in loss of flow to the lubrication system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Coltec Industrial Products LLC
    Inventor: Curtis Roys
  • Patent number: 8025555
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for conditioning polishing pads that utilizes an apertured conditioning disk for introducing operation-specific slurries, without the need for additional tooling, platens, and materials handling. The method and apparatus utilizes a vacuum capability to pull waste material out of the polishing pad and through the apertured conditioning disk to evacuate the apparatus through an outlet port. The apparatus also includes a force adjustment system for providing measurement and control of the force applied by the conditioning disk to the polishing pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: TBW Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen J. Benner
  • Patent number: 7871248
    Abstract: A system for controlling lubricant displacement from a machine during turbomachine shutdown sequence includes a motor, a pump, a control valve, and a motor control unit. The motor is selectively energized from a power bus to rotate at a rotational speed and supply a drive force to the pump. The pump, in response to the drive force, draws fluid from a fluid and supplies the fluid to the machine. The control valve is movable between at least a first position, in which the control valve fluidly communicates the pump with a lubrication fluid source, and a second position, in which the control valve fluidly communicates the pump with a gaseous fluid source. During the shutdown sequence, the motor control unit controllably energizes the motor from the power bus to thereby control its rotational speed in accordance with a schedule that will displace at least a substantial volume of lubricant in the rotating machine with fluid from the gaseous fluid source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Jim E. Delaloye
  • Patent number: 7814922
    Abstract: A method of operating apparatus for controlling the pressure in a process chamber (10), the apparatus comprising a first pump unit (14) having an inlet in fluid connection with an outlet of said process chamber, and a second pump unit (16) having an inlet in fluid connection with an outlet of the first pump unit via a flow control unit (18) comprising a variable flow control device (20; 28) having variable conductance for controlling outlet fluid pressure at the outlet of the first pump unit, the method comprises controlling speed of the first pump unit to increase the range of chamber pressures over which control of the outlet fluid pressure produces changes in said chamber pressure without exceeding the thermal limit and/or motor stall limit of the first pump unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Edwards Limited
    Inventor: Martin Ernst Tollner
  • Patent number: 7611332
    Abstract: A device and a method for controlling a two-cylinder thick matter pump to achieve a reliable operation even of single-circuit two-cylinder thick matter pumps. To this end, the pipe switch includes a position transmitter responding to the pivoting position. At least two cylinder switching sensors are arranged on the working cylinders at a distance from each other, responding to the passing pistons of the drive cylinder, and/or a pressure sensor responding to the pressure course at the high-pressure outlet of the reversible pump is provided. A computer-assisted reversing device has a control routine responding to output signals of the position transmitter and to output signals of the cylinder switching sensors and/or the pressure sensors, enabling the programmed control of a control body for adjusting the flow quantity and direction of the reversible pump, and a reversing element arranged in the hydraulic branch of the pipe switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Putzmeister Concrete Pumps GmbH
    Inventors: Wilhelm Hofmann, Werner Münzenmaier
  • Patent number: 7581935
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for controlling a two-cylinder thick matter pump comprising delivery pistons that are actuated in a push-pull manner by means of a hydraulic reversible pump (6) and hydraulic drive cylinders controlled by said pump. For each pressure stroke, the delivery cylinders (50, 50?) are connected to a delivery conduit (58) by means of a pipe junction (56). At the end of a pressure stroke, a reversal process of the reversible pump (6) and the pipe junction (56) is triggered. The aim of the invention is to obtain a targeted reversal of the reversal pump and the pipe junction, even when the deliverable quantity is varied, whereby the delivery cylinders are completely emptied, but also without pistons banging the ends of the cylinders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Putzmeister Concrete Pumps GmbH
    Inventors: Wilhelm Hofmann, Stefan Höfling
  • Patent number: 7337920
    Abstract: A concentrated flavour dispensing machine having displacement pumps for delivering between a few millilitres and few ounces of fluids having a viscosity value between 1 to 4000 centepoise is described. The dispensing machine includes a cabinet for containing a multitude of displacement pumps, where each displacement pump is in direct fluid communication with a respective storage tank, and a control panel having a programmable microprocessor mounted to the cabinet for receiving user selections and controlling each individual pump. Each displacement pump includes a stepper motor in engagement with a threaded drive rod for advancing a piston by any one of several predetermined distances to dispense a corresponding volume of fluid. The control panel receives a valid user selection for actuating one or more pumps to dispense the appropriate volume of a concentrated flavouring fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: A.C. Dispensing Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R Duck, Garth C. Illsley, Charles Jollymore, Ian MacLean, Kevin Stoneman, Dzung Tran, Avery Wilson, Kim Kanigan
  • Patent number: 7118348
    Abstract: A compressed air system, wherein a decision to de-energize a compressor motor is made with consideration of the likely need for the operation of the compressor at a future point in time. A rate of pressure decay in an air reservoir may be extrapolated over a predetermined time period to predict the need for operation of the compressor within the time period. If operation of the compressor is predicted to be needed within the time period, the compressor is allowed to continue to run in an unloaded mode beyond a normal cool down period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Jason Arthur Dean, Mark Alan Linebach, Richard Gerald Bliley, Stephen Matthew Pelkowski, Jeffrey James Kisak
  • Patent number: 6964558
    Abstract: Low voltage electrical power is supplied to a diagnostic control device in a sealed compressor. Electrical power is tapped from a high voltage power line and transformed to low voltage power that in turn operates the diagnostic control device. The diagnostic control device and the electric voltage transforming system are housed within the sealed compressor shell, thus eliminating the need for additional openings in the compressor shell. Other low voltage devices can be powered in this way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Scroll Technologies
    Inventors: Greg Hahn, Zili Sun, Carlos Zamudio, Jason Hugenroth, Thomas Barito, James W. Bush, Joe T. Hill, John R. Williams
  • Publication number: 20040037706
    Abstract: Low voltage electrical power is supplied to a diagnostic control device in a sealed compressor. Electrical power is tapped from a high voltage power line and transformed to low voltage power that in turn operates the diagnostic control device. The diagnostic control device and the electric voltage transforming system are housed within the sealed compressor shell, thus eliminating the need for additional openings in the compressor shell. Other low voltage devices can be powered in this way.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventors: Greg Hahn, Zili Sun, Carlos Zamudio, Jason Hugenroth, Thomas Barito, James W. Bush, Joe T. Hill, John R. Williams
  • Patent number: 6641368
    Abstract: Low voltage electrical power is supplied to a diagnostic control device in a sealed compressor. Electrical power is tapped from a high voltage power line and transformed to low voltage power that in turn operates the diagnostic control device. The diagnostic control device and the electric voltage transforming system are housed within the sealed compressor shell, thus eliminating the need for additional openings in the compressor shell. Other low voltage devices can be powered in this way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Scroll Technologies
    Inventors: Greg Hahn, Zili Sun, Carlos Zamudio, Jason Hugenroth, Thomas Barito, James W. Bush, Joe T. Hill, John R. Williams
  • Patent number: 6626643
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for producing predetermined quantities of a meat product, inc which the apparatus comprises a twin vane concentric pump with an inlet and an outlet circumferentially spaced from one another, and a pair of independently movable vanes. During operation, one of the vanes is positioned between the inlet and outlet to permit pressurization of meat chunks in a chamber communicating with an outlet opening. The other vane is advanced toward the outlet with the outlet valve closed until a predetermined pressure is reached, at which point the outlet valve is opened to dispense a predetermined quantity of meat product. Similar to single vane meat pumps, the disclosed twin vane pump is capable of handling large meat chunks while causing relatively little damage to the chunks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Handtmann Piereder Machinery Ltd.
    Inventor: Georg Staudenrausch
  • Patent number: 6599093
    Abstract: A compressor that enables the increase of compression efficiency, the prevention of abnormal temperature rising in the discharge, and the reduction of power loss, includes a compressor body 11, an intake registration valve 12 in the inlet side, and a pressure sensor 18 provided in the discharge side to be able to detect pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho
    Inventor: Junichiro Totsuka
  • Publication number: 20030099547
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for producing predetermined quantities of a meat product, inc which the apparatus comprises a twin vane concentric pump with an inlet and an outlet circumferentially spaced from one another, and a pair of independently movable vanes. During operation, one of the vanes is positioned between the inlet and outlet to permit pressurization of meat chunks in a chamber communicating with an outlet opening. The other vane is advanced toward the outlet with the outlet valve closed until a predetermined pressure is reached, at which point the outlet valve is opened to dispense a predetermined quantity of meat product. Similar to single vane meat pumps, the disclosed twin vane pump is capable of handling large meat chunks while causing relatively little damage to the chunks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Georg Staudenrausch
  • Patent number: 6558126
    Abstract: Low voltage electrical power is supplied to a diagnostic control device in a sealed compressor. Electrical power is tapped from a high voltage power line and transformed to low voltage power that in turn operates the diagnostic control device. The diagnostic control device and the electric voltage transforming system are housed within the sealed compressor shell, thus eliminating the need for additional openings in the compressor shell. Other low voltage devices can be powered in this way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Scroll Technologies
    Inventors: Greg Hahn, Zili Sun, Carlos Zamudio, Jason Hugenroth, Thomas Barito, James W. Bush, Joe T. Hill, John R. Williams
  • Patent number: 6533552
    Abstract: An electronic control system dynamically varies the output capacity of a compressor by controlling plural valves associated with the compressor to provide pressurized air to a distribution system at an appropriate rate. The control system operates in any of three modes for standalone operation, including continuous run, auto/dual pressure band, and target pressure modes. In the first two modes, pressure bands are dynamically calculated based on load and unload values entered by an operator. These electronic control systems can also be connected in a peer-to-peer network to coordinate control of up to 16 compressors feeding the same distribution system, so as to maintain a desired target pressure in the system. A modem connected to the system supports remote diagnostics, monitoring, and control. Specialized startup, operating, and shutdown diagnostic algorithms prevent damage to the compressor and avert unsafe operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Coltec Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Steven D. Centers, Paul Burrell
  • Patent number: 6517329
    Abstract: Provided is a low-noise, long-life electromagnetic blower that has a simple, low-priced configuration and can realize two different outputs, high and low. When the electromagnetic blower is operated with low output, coils of an electromagnet are connected in series with each other, and an alternating current is supplied from an AC power source. When the blower is operated with high output, on the other hand, current is supplied to the one coil only. In the case where the electromagnetic blower is used for sewage disposal, the electromagnetic blower is operated with low output during aeration and with high output during reverse cleaning operation. Thereupon, the electromagnetic blower can operate with low noise during aeration, and the efficiency of reverse cleaning can be improved. In order to operate the electromagnetic blower with high output, moreover, the coils of the electromagnet may be connected in parallel with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Nitto Kohki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Iwaji Shiomi, Nobuyuki Nozawa, Akira Takanaka
  • Patent number: 6328690
    Abstract: An air feeding device for endoscope system includes an air compressor that compresses air and feeds the air in a sealed space, and a pressure sensor that detects air pressure in the sealed space. Further, a pressure setting device and a pressure controller are provided. The pressure setting device is used for setting a pressure value to be achieved in the sealed space, and the pressure controller turns ON and OFF the compressor in accordance with the air pressure detected by the pressure sensor and the pressure value set by the pressure setting device. The air feeding device has a main valve. An inlet of the main valve is connected to the sealed space, and an outlet of the main valve is connected to an outlet of the air feeding device. By opening the main valve, the air enclosed in the sealed space is discharged from the outlet to strike an object at a certain pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Satoshi Takami, Kazuhiro Yamazaki, Noriaki Takahashi
  • Patent number: 6257833
    Abstract: A redundant, modular pump system includes a plurality of substantially identical pump modules. Each module includes constant speed drive circuitry, variable speed drive circuitry and a pump. Expansion is accomplished by adding modules. Reliability is enhanced by being able to operate each pump at constant or variable speed irrespective of whether other modules are being operated at different variable or constant speeds. A common, software driven control element activates drives and other devices in the modules to provide fluid on demand at a pre-selected pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Metropolitan Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Brendan J. Bates
  • Patent number: 6155790
    Abstract: A method and equipment for controlling a pipe network comprising piping (1), a pump (2) and at least two control valves (3), whereby the valve position and the flow through the valve are monitored, and in order to achieve desired flows the rotational speed of the pump and the position of each valve are adjusted on the basis to the position and flow data received. The rotational speed of the pump (2) is adjusted to be as low as possible, but at the same time sufficient for maintaining the gain of the valves (3). The positions of the valves (3) are adjusted to be as open as possible, the valve opening being, however, for the major part of the time, not more than a certain predetermined portion of the opening of the totally open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Neles Controls OY
    Inventors: Jouni Pyotsia, Mika Kreivi
  • Patent number: 6146100
    Abstract: In the inlet pipe (7) of the compressor element (1) is provided a pneumatically controlled throttle valve (9), whereas the motor (3) of the compressor element (1) has a pneumatically controlled speed regulator (6). This speed regulator (6) and the throttle valve (9) are both connected to the compressed air receiver (14) via a compressed air pipe (26) and a control device (18). This control device (18) contains an electropneumatic valve (19) in the compressed air pipe (26) which is coupled to an electronic control (20), whereas a pressure sensor (21) is connected to the compressed air receiver (14) and a pressure sensor (22) is erected in the compressed air pipe (26) between the valve (19) and the speed regulator (6) and the throttle valve (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Atlas Copco AirPower, naamloze vennootschap
    Inventor: Stijn Broucke
  • Patent number: 6099264
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided an in-line fluid pump controller for activating and de-activating a fluid pump which is configured to pump fluid through a fluid line. The fluid in the fluid line is characterized by a flow rate and a pressure. The pump controller is provided with a housing which is connectable in fluid communication with the fluid line. The pump controller is further provided with a valve body which is disposed within the housing. The valve body is in fluid flow communication with the fluid of the fluid line and is sized and configured to move in response to the flow rate of the fluid. The valve body has a first position when the flow rate of the fluid is below a threshold flow rate and a second position when the flow rate of the fluid is above the threshold flow rate. The pump controller is further provided with a pivoting lever arm which is rotably connected to the housing. The lever arm is sized and configured to move in response to the pressure of the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin R. Du
  • Patent number: 6050779
    Abstract: A conveying system comprising a pump whose power source is an unstable electric power supply, such as a solar cell; a first supply pipe for conveying liquid from an intake to the pump; a second supply pipe for conveying the liquid from the pump to a discharge opening; a liquid storage tank provided at a position which is below the discharge opening and above the pump; a third supply pipe branching from the second supply pipe, for conveying the liquid to the liquid storage tank; a fourth supply pipe connected between the liquid storage tank and the first supply pipe; a first valve, provided between the branching point of the first and fourth supply pipes and the intake, for opening and closing the first supply pipe; a second valve, provided between the branching point of the second and third supply pipes and the discharge opening, for opening and closing the second supply pipe; a third valve for opening and closing the third supply pipe; and a fourth valve for opening and closing the fourth supply pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Nagao, Kimitoshi Fukae, Nobuyoshi Takehara
  • Patent number: 5795328
    Abstract: A vacuum system and a method of operating a vacuum system. The system comprises a vacuum line, a pump, a pump motor, a pressure adjusting assembly, a pressure sensor and a control means. The pump is connected to the vacuum line for drawing fluids therefrom, and the motor is connected to the pump to drive the pump. The pressure adjusting assembly is connected to the vacuum line for conducting fluid into that line at an adjustable rate. The pressure sensor is connected to the vacuum line to generate a pressure signal representing the pressure in the vacuum line. The control means receives the pressure signal and generates a system control signal that is used to adjust the pressure in the vacuum line. The specific manner in which the pressure in the vacuum line is adjusted depends on the value of that pressure, and in particular, whether that pressure is in a first range or a second range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Iolab Corporation
    Inventors: James C. Barnitz, Joseph M. Curley, David C. Downey