Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for the simple removal of liquid condensate, in particular of water of condensation, from compressed-air systems alternately subjected in operation to positive pressure and atmospheric pressure. The compressed-air system is first of all connected for a limited period, at intervals or after each subjection to positive pressure, to a vacuum generator in order to promote re-evaporation of the condensate and is evacuated by the latter before atmospheric pressure is passed in or let in again. In certain embodiments, a highly restricted reverse flow through the compressed-air system is permitted. The method is particularly suitable for use in small-volume compressed-air systems which do not have to be permanently subjected to positive pressure, e.g., in pneumatic door-closing aids for motor cars.

Abstract: A system for controlling the amount of torque applied by a hand-held power tool to fasteners during an assembly of parts. In the preferred embodiment, a torque control circuit is operated by air to deliver a selected volume of air under selected pressure to the tool and to stop the delivery of air when the desired torque has been applied to the fastener. The system can operate one or more torque control circuits. Visual color coded signals can be used to indicate the active circuit and the tools intended to be used with that circuit.

Abstract: A compact electric adjusting drive for locking systems, fan flaps or the like in motor vehicles includes a fluidic force transmission system between the electric motor and the adjusting element movable to and fro between two end positions.

Abstract: A portable pneumatic machine is provided including an incorporated electronic circuit for controlling and monitoring the operation, which circuit is fed with current delivered by an electric generator rotated by the driving pneumatic air, the electric generator having means for delivering signals representative of at least one operating parameter of the machine usable by the incorporated electronic control and monitoring circuit.

Abstract: A closed center four-way poppet actuator control device is incorporated into a pneumatic actuation system for controlling the movement of flight surfaces. The closed center four-way poppet actuator control device has a housing, a pair of two-way poppet valves in the housing, a rocker arm assembly mounted on the housing and connected to the pair of two-way poppet valves, and a diaphragm assembly also mounted in the housing and in contact with the two-way valves. A torque motor-driver assembly connected to the diaphragm assembly actuates the two-way valves as determined by control signals. The rocker arm causes the two-way valves to function oppositely each other: one allows high pressure gas to be input to a lobe motor actuator while the other allows gas to be output from the lobe motor actuator. Each two-way valve has a cylindrical poppet valve for inletting the gas to the actuator and a disk poppet valve for outputting the gas from the actuator to a vent.

Abstract: A control system for controlling the operation of a heating or air conditioning system, especially for the passenger compartment of motor vehicles. The temperature in the compartment is maintained by an electronic controller which receives temperature-related signals from one or more temperature sensors. The electronic controller is connected to an air pump which may be operated as a source of pressure or vacuum and is coupled to a pneumatic actuator which moves a final control element, for example an air flow valve or a cooling water valve. The air pump supplies a continuous and reliable source of pressure or vacuum independently of the engine manifold vacuum. The air control conduit is coupled to a ventilating line which communicates with the atmosphere through a fixed or variable throttle.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for reducing the level of noise emitted by air turbine machinery, particularly a pneumatically driven hydraulic pump for an airplane, wherein a modulating valve meters the flow of air from a source of pressurized air through a conduit to an air turbine to control the speed of the turbine. A pressure regulating valve is located in the air conduit upstream of the modulating valve to regulate and maintain the upstream pressure on the modulating valve at substantially the minimum pressure required in order to permit operation of the air turbine over its full range of speed as the amount of airflow is varied with the modulating valve. Reducing the pressure across the modulating valve in this manner minimizes the production of supersonic airflow and attendant noise by the modulating valve, which noise is otherwise propagated to the atmosphere through the turbine exhaust stream and is additionally radiated by the turbine casing.

Abstract: A device for remote control of actuator of a shut-off member comprises an autonomous source of energy and a distributor connected therewith. The autonomous source of energy is fashioned as two units, each unit containing at least two gas generators with igniter means, a pneumatic OR gate and a selector. The input of each unit is connected to a corresponding control channel while outputs are connected to respective input and control channels of the distributor. The present invention improves the reliability of control of the shut-off member and facilitates the maintenance of the device during operation.

Abstract: An altitude compensating control system for a vacuum pump supplying a vehicle accessory vacuum supply system comprising, in a preferred embodiment, a dual diaphragm pressure switch spring biased in a closing direction to actuate the pump and having an ambient pressure exposed diaphragm acting in a switch-opening direction opposed by a controlled vacuum pressure exposed diaphragm of larger area acting in a switch closing direction to provide a controlled vacuum pressure range that declines from a desired operational vacuum pressure range at sea level to a lower satisfactory vacuum level for efficient operation at higher altitudes. Other features and advantages are also disclosed.

Abstract: A power tool for setting fasteners to a predetermined torque, having a novel shut-off means that automatically shuts off the power supply at a predetermined torque, but will not "hang up" in the off position.

Abstract: A turbine drive system for operating a vehicle, where the drive system includes a common drive shaft powered by a turbine, and is used for propelling the vehicle and also for operating an air compressor. The air compressor supplies air under pressure which is stored in a pressure tank. The pressurized air operates the turbine which has a vane rotor. A return air flow path is provided from the turbine back to the compressor. By use of a vehicle fan, an air intake is provided to the compressor during forward movement of the vehicle. An auxiliary engine can be included for starting the compressor where the auxiliary engine can also be utilized as an auxiliary drive for the compressor. Additionally, a conventional vehicle engine can be included which operates the same drive shaft and which can work in conjunction with the turbine drive system.

Abstract: A control system for a diaphragm vacuum pump comprises a vacuum sensor disposed within the vacuum chamber of a pneumatically operated device for detecting a predetermined vacuum pressure to ensure the effective operation of the device and generating an output signal therefrom. A switchover solenoid valve is disposed within the pneumatic connection between the suction port of the vacuum pump and the vacuum chamber of the device is energized in response to the output signal of the sensor to selectively open the pumping chamber of the pump to the air through the suction port and close the vacuum chamber of the device.