With Connection Or Box Patents (Class 73/201)
  • Patent number: 11940311
    Abstract: A gas meter control system is adapted for use in gas meters having a plurality of different sizes (e.g., ability to measure different flowrates and/or different gas volumes per billing cycle) and different functional capabilities. In an example, the gas meter control system is configured to recognize and identify a metrology unit, sensor(s), switch(es), valve(s), valve motor(s), and/or other device(s) within a gas meter. Having identified devices present within a gas-environment and an air-environment of the meter, the control system selects and executes appropriate software to operate the identified devices. Addition of an additional component to the meter (e.g., an earthquake sensor or a tamper sensor) results in identification of the added component and execution of appropriate control software. Accordingly, the gas meter control system replaces a number of control systems configured to operate a single specific meter and/or configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Assignee: ITRON GLOBAL SARL
    Inventor: George Iliev
  • Patent number: 11892086
    Abstract: A bypass valve includes a base defining a base sealing surface, the base defining an upstream utility bore, a downstream utility bore, a meter inlet bore, and a meter outlet bore each extending into the base sealing surface; and a selector defining a selector sealing surface and a front surface, a primary passage and a secondary passage defined within the selector between the selector sealing surface and the front surface, the primary passage being isolated from the secondary passage, the selector defining at least one primary passage bore extending into the selector sealing surface and connected in fluid communication with the primary passage, the selector defining at least one secondary passage bore extending into the selector sealing surface and connected in fluid communication with the secondary passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Tomas Peleckas, Timothy Wayne Stern, Rock Allen Powell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11726073
    Abstract: A method includes attaching a gas capture device to a bypass system adjacent to a gas meter. The method also includes rotating an internal cartridge near the gas meter to a bypass mode. The rotation of the internal cartridge enables gas to be diverted through a bypass system and away from the gas meter into an outlet. Remaining gas is captured from the gas meter to prevent the gas from releasing externally. The gas meter is removed from its original position. The internal cartridge is rotated from the bypass mode to a purge mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2022
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Keith James Hess, Christof Hermann Esselmann, Ryan Min Chul Kim
  • Patent number: 11680837
    Abstract: A water meter (1) comprising: a volume flow-measuring device (2) by means of which a volume flow of a liquid flowing through a water pipe (3) can be measured from outside the water pipe (3); and a clamping device (4) by means of which the water meter (1) can be clamped to the water pipe (3). In addition, a method for attaching a water meter (1) to a water pipe (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Assignee: GROHE AG
    Inventors: Daniel Radermacher, Bert Depiere, Bastian Schubert
  • Patent number: 11674605
    Abstract: A meter bar includes a housing comprising an inflow end and an outflow end, a key assembly arranged within housing, the key assembly including a key, the key defining an interior and providing a fluid pathway from the inflow end to the outflow end; the key defining a pair of upper portals, one upper portal proximate the inflow end and one upper portal proximate the outflow end; the key defining a pair of lower portals, one lower portal proximate the inflow end and one lower portal proximate the outflow end; the key defining a pair of bypass portals; the key assembly arrangeable within the housing to selectably direct fluid flow from the inflow end to the outflow end either through a meter or bypassing the meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey Allen Huffman
  • Patent number: 11555547
    Abstract: A bypass valve includes a base defining a base sealing surface, the base defining an upstream utility bore, a downstream utility bore, a meter inlet bore, and a meter outlet bore each extending into the base sealing surface; and a selector defining a selector sealing surface and a front surface, a primary passage and a secondary passage defined within the selector between the selector sealing surface and the front surface, the primary passage being isolated from the secondary passage, the selector defining at least one primary passage bore extending into the selector sealing surface and connected in fluid communication with the primary passage, the selector defining at least one secondary passage bore extending into the selector sealing surface and connected in fluid communication with the secondary passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Tomas Peleckas, Timothy Wayne Stern, Rock Allen Powell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11473957
    Abstract: A meter bypass assembly includes a housing and a valve assembly. The housing defines a first inlet and a first outlet, and a second inlet and a second outlet. The valve assembly is rotatable to a first position in which fluid is allowed to flow from the first inlet to the first outlet and from the second inlet to the second outlet. The valve assembly is also rotatable to a second position in which fluid is allowed to flow from the first inlet to the second outlet and is restricted from flowing from the first inlet to the first outlet and from the second inlet to the second outlet. The valve assembly includes a shaft extending in a longitudinal direction of the housing and first and second valve bodies rotationally fixed to opposing ends of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Assignee: Georg Fischer Central Plastics LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Smith, Thomas G. Veeley
  • Patent number: 11382227
    Abstract: A metrology device includes a housing, a lower support structure, a PCB coupled to the lower support structure, and a cover coupled to the lower support structure and the housing. The housing supports the cover in three coordinate directions. The lower support structure includes a first pillar that supports the PCB and mechanically couples with the cover. The first pillar causes the PCB to stand off from the lower support structure and causes the cover to stand off from the PCB. The metrology device also includes a second pillar that extends from the lower support structure to a base to cause the lower support structure to stand off from the base. The cover has a non-circle shape, and a cross section of the housing at a same elevation of the housing as an elevation of the cover within the housing is a circle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: Itron, Inc.
    Inventor: Kirby Kimble Nelson, III
  • Patent number: 11319953
    Abstract: A screw spindle pump, comprising a pump housing having a lead screw received therein and at least one running spindle which meshes with said lead screw, as well as a connector housing which is placed onto the pump housing and has a suction connector and a pressure connector, the two latter fluidically communicating with a suction inlet and a pressure outlet of the pump housing, wherein the connector housing is composed of a first housing part and a second housing part, one of the two latter having the suction connector and the other having the pressure connector, both said housing parts being rotatable relative to the pump housing and both being rotatable relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: LEISTRITZ PUMPEN GMBH
    Inventors: Ralf Richter, Susanne Brütting
  • Patent number: 11175169
    Abstract: A system for connecting a central module to a network is provided. The system includes a central module having an inlet and an outlet; a first connector configured to be received at the inlet of the central module; a second, connector configured to be received at the outlet of the central module; and at least one fastening mechanism configured to secure the first and second connectors to the central module such that a sealed connection is provided through the central module to the network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Assignee: Sensus Spectrum, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 11066291
    Abstract: A system and parts of a system that can be used to introduce fluid into a closed circuit. The system includes a valve having an inlet, an outlet, a flush inlet; a spool located in a valve body and coupled to a handle, and the spool can selectively, by the positioning of the handle, direct flow between the inlet, outlet, and flush inlet. The system also includes an uptake conduit comprising a valve connector that is configured to couple with the flush inlet, and a conduit, that is configured to allow fluid to flow therethrough. Additionally, the system has a system attachment having a system connector and a valve connector, and the uptake conduit and the system attachment are coupled to the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2021
    Inventor: Michael Chiang
  • Patent number: 9556992
    Abstract: An apparatus for installing multiple utility meters is provided. The apparatus may be attachable to an existing setter in place of a utility meter. The apparatus includes connectors for a plurality of utility meters, wherein one of the utility meters attaches such that intake into the meter and outtake out of the meter utilize the setter. The apparatus may include connectors for one or more additional meters and secondary outtakes for each of the additional meters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Inventors: Steven Josh Collins, Danny Lewis Young
  • Patent number: 9212752
    Abstract: A bypass device used in conjunction with a gas meter has a normal mode and a bypass mode. In the normal mode, the bypass device routes gas through the gas meter to a customer. In the bypass mode, the bypass device routes gas through a bypass path so that the gas meter can be serviced or replaced without interrupting gas service to the customer. Manual operating ball valves select either the normal mode or the bypass mode. Each ball valve includes a rotatable diverter ball with a 90° flow passage. Each diverter ball is mounted within the bypass device between pair of polymer annular valve seats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Inventor: Jordan Gardner
  • Patent number: 9173011
    Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring a utility resource are disclosed. One system includes utility resource usage capture components connected to a utility resource management computing system via a satellite communications network. Each of the utility resource usage capture components includes a utility resource meter interface and a satellite communication module. The utility resource meter interface is configured to communicate with different types of utility resource meters from different manufacturers. Each of the utility resource usage capture components has a low power state and an operational state, and is configured to automatically enter the operational state, interrogate an associated utility resource meter, communicate the reading via the satellite communication module, and return to the low power state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: Informational Data Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Les Robinson, Rod Redlin, Angelo A. Polsinelli, Keith W. Carlson, Stephen A. Uban
  • Patent number: 9163735
    Abstract: A flow diverter is provided for use with a valve having a valve body with an inlet and an outlet separated by a valve seat, a valve member, an actuator for displacement of the valve member into and out of engagement with the valve seat, and a bonnet in which the valve member and the actuator are housed. The flow diverter has an elongate housing with an inlet end and an outlet end and which is configured to engage the valve body at the inlet end with the valve member and actuator removed from the valve body. The elongate housing defines an outlet passage and an inlet passage, the outlet passage being interposed between the inlet end and the inlet passage. An elongate flow guide is positioned within the housing. The flow guide is configured to engage the valve seat and, together with the housing, to define a flow path that confines the flow of fluid from the valve body and out of the outlet passage. The outlet passage and the inlet passage are configured for bridging with a device such as a water flow meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Inventor: Peter Ronald McCallum
  • Publication number: 20150090049
    Abstract: A flow imaging and monitoring system for synchronized management of wide area drainage that includes an interposer for supporting monitoring and management equipment in a manhole, a module for illuminating water flowing in pipes at the base of the manhole, a module for monitoring responses to reflected light, a sealed and rechargeable battery pack, and a data analysis and management system to interpret data streams in real time. The interposer can be adjusted to fit the diameter of the manhole and can be adjusted to be placed under the manhole cover. The module for illuminating the flowing water can be adjusted to generate various frequencies. The support structures for the modules can be adjusted for varying pitch, roll and yaw with respect to the manhole. The data analysis and management system is supported by cloud computing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Applicants: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Urbanalta Technology
    Inventors: Ruben KERTESZ, Daniel J. MURRAY, JR., MICHAEL BOLAN, RYAN ANDERSON
  • Patent number: 8936038
    Abstract: An electromagnetic water meter holder apparatus for holding and stabilizing an electromagnetic water meter in a water meter box. A cylindrical rod, large circular tube and arched tab are used, and are optimally sized to hold and stabilize electromagnetic water meters. The method includes positioning an electromagnetic water meter into a water meter box for installation. Aligning and optimizing the electromagnetic water meter pipe nozzles of the electromagnetic water meter up with existing pipe for water flow management. Securing of the electromagnetic water meter in place by moving the cylindrical rod of the electromagnetic water meter holder apparatus, thereby preventing rotation or movement of the electromagnetic water meter; and connecting the existing pipe for water flow in and water flow out of the water meter box to the electromagnetic water meter by securing the existing pipe to the electromagnetic water meter pipe nozzles with connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventor: Dave Tyler
  • Publication number: 20140251002
    Abstract: Meters are described. In one example, a meter includes a totalizer including an electronic circuit and a metering screen, a cap at least partially covering the totalizer, the cap including a window to facilitate viewing of data of the metering screen, and a screen cover mounted on the cap and movable between an open position and a closed position in order to cover the metering screen. In such an arrangement the electronic circuit includes a device for detection of the open position or the closed position of the screen cover, and the detection of the open position or the closed position controls scrolling of data of the metering screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: ITRON FRANCE
    Inventors: Serge BULTEAU, Michel BOTTNER, Sebastien SCHWENTER, Anthony RENOUD
  • Patent number: 8776593
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hybrid fluid flow meter pressure vessel assembly (1) that includes an interior housing (11) fabricated from plastic, and an exterior ring structure (26), such as unitary exterior ring structure (32), fabricated from metal. Interior housing (11) has sidewalls (14) and an internal chamber (17). The sidewalls (14) of the interior housing (11) have first and second apertures (20, 23) that are each in fluid communication with the internal chamber (17). The exterior ring structure (26, 32) encompasses at least a portion of an exterior (29) of the sidewalls (14) of the interior housing (11), and includes outwardly extending first and second conduits (38, 41; 83, 89) that are in respective fluid communication with the first and second apertures (20, 23) of the interior housing (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Arad Ltd.
    Inventors: Shaul Margalit, Nitzan Cohen, Yoel Ben Moshe, Jerry Potter
  • Patent number: 8667980
    Abstract: Disclosed is a non-interrupt meter change out device including a clamp assembly, at least one case assembly, and at least one collar, the clamp assembly including a frame and a distance adjuster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLP
    Inventors: James Ola Williams, Leo William Fleury, Jr., Normand James Roy
  • Patent number: 8613220
    Abstract: A water meter enclosure includes a non-metallic cover defining an interior cavity shaped to accept a metering device; a metal ring including threads for connection to a piping system; and an annular lip contacting a distal end of the metal ring to retain the metal ring in spatial relationship between the non-metallic cover and the annular lip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Marty Scott Ball, Jeremy Alan McCraven
  • Publication number: 20130213130
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid measurement sensor attachment structure in which a fluid measurement sensor is attached to a branch pipe among three or more branch pipes branched from a pipe, thereby measuring properties of a fluid flowing through a flow path that is formed by remaining branch pipes, comprising a sleeve that can accommodate the fluid measurement sensor, wherein the sleeve is a member in a shape of a tumbler including a circumferential wall that is substantially cylindrical and a protective wall that is disposed at one end of the circumferential wall and that does not disturb a function of the sensor, a seal lip is disposed on the circumferential wall near the protective wall, and the sleeve is inserted into the branch pipe such that the protective wall is positioned near a base end of the branch pipes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: NIPPON PILLAR PACKING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Junji Ohmiya, Makoto Fujii, Tomoyuki Koike
  • Patent number: 8459107
    Abstract: A manifold gauge cover featuring a first half shell and a second half shell connected via a hinge. The inner surfaces of the shells are lined with foam. The shells can move between an open position and a closed position respectively allowing and preventing access to the inner cavities of the shells. A locking mechanism secures the shells in the closed position. A gauge aperture is disposed in the back surfaces of the shells to allows passage of the hook of a manifold gauge set. A magnet is disposed on the bottom surface of a shell. A chart holder is disposed on the top surface of a shell adapted to hold a pressure temperature chart. When the half shells are in the closed position, the half shells cover a portion of a manifold gauge set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: Michael J. Michaud
  • Patent number: 8387454
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hybrid fluid flow meter pressure vessel assembly (1) that includes an interior housing (11) fabricated from plastic, and an exterior ring structure (26) fabricated from metal. Interior housing (11) has sidewalls (14) and an internal chamber (17). The sidewalls (14) of the interior housing (11) have first and second apertures (20, 23) that are each in fluid communication with the internal chamber (17). The exterior ring structure (26) encompasses at least a portion of an exterior (29) of the sidewalls (14) of the interior housing (11), and includes outwardly extending first and second conduits (38, 41) that are in respective fluid communication with the first and second apertures (20, 23) of the interior housing (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Arad Ltd.
    Inventors: Shaul Margalit, Nitzan Cohen, Yoel Ben Moshe, Jerry Potter
  • Patent number: 8316706
    Abstract: A system element for releasably sealed connecting of a measurement recorder to a fluid system, having a measurement chamber that can be connected to the fluid system allowing flow through the same, wherein the measurement chamber is formed in a housing and a part of the wall of the measurement chamber is formed by a membrane, wherein the part of the wall adjacent to the membrane forms an outer wall having an edge whereon the membrane bears, and the membrane comprises a circumferential bead facing the measurement chamber, wherein the bead engages in a recess formed in the housing about the outer wall; and running around the measurement chamber, and protruding pins are disposed in the region of the recess about the outer wall, and wherein holes are provided in the bead of the membrane, so that the pins engage in the holes in the bead of the membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Sartorius Stedim Biotech GmbH
    Inventor: Raymond Glocker
  • Patent number: 8281654
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to flow meters and more particularly to improved plastic water flow meters for commercial or residential use. In various embodiments, a plastic water meter is provided that may include metal threads for connecting the water meter to a water system. In particular, the plastic water meter may include at least one spud that is shaped to receive and engage a plastic spud insert, in which the plastic spud insert may include a metal ring with a threaded outer surface. The plastic spud insert may include an annular lip portion extending outwardly to discourage removal of the metal ring when the spud insert is engaged with the water meter. Furthermore, the plastic spud insert and the inner surface of the metal ring may have complementary circumferential profiles to discourage relative rotation between the metal ring and the spud insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Marty Scott Ball, Jeremy Alan McCraven
  • Publication number: 20120186336
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods and devices for reducing moisture, dust, particulate matter, and/or other contaminates entering a sensor. A sensor assembly may include a housing with an inlet flow port and an outlet flow port. The housing may define a fluid channel extending between the inlet flow port and the outlet flow port, with a sensor positioned in the housing and exposed to the fluid channel. The sensor may be configured to sense a measure related to the flow rate of a fluid flowing through the fluid channel. A hydrophobic filter may be situated in the fluid channel, sometimes upstream of the sensor. When so configured, and during operation of the sensor assembly, a fluid may pass through the inlet flow port, through the hydrophobic filter, across the sensor, and through the outlet flow port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Jamie Speldrich, Scott Edward Beck, Phil Foster, Ru Wang
  • Publication number: 20120011929
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to flow meters and more particularly to improved plastic water flow meters for commercial or residential use. In various embodiments, a plastic water meter is provided that may include metal threads for connecting the water meter to a water system. In particular, the plastic water meter may include at least one spud that is shaped to receive and engage a plastic spud insert, in which the plastic spud insert may include a metal ring with a threaded outer surface. The plastic spud insert may include an annular lip portion extending outwardly to discourage removal of the metal ring when the spud insert is engaged with the water meter. Furthermore, the plastic spud insert and the inner surface of the metal ring may have complementary circumferential profiles to discourage relative rotation between the metal ring and the spud insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Applicant: MUELLER INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventors: Marty Scott Ball, Jeremy Alan McCraven
  • Patent number: 8087293
    Abstract: The invention relates to an oil-gas-water multi-phase flow adjusting apparatus, which mainly comprises an inlet accelerating pipe section, a vortex flow guide spiral pipe, a gas circuit exit connection pipe section, a liquid receiving cone, a mixed liquid relief exit connection pipe section and a sampler exit connection pipe section, and which has the function for changing at intervals the flow pattern, the flow state and the components of the oil-gas-water multi-phase flow. The invention also relates to an oil-gas-water multi-phase flow rate measuring apparatus and its measuring method. The measuring apparatus comprises a blind three-way mixing means, a pressure differential type flow measuring device, a single-? phase volume fraction meter, a dual-? phase volume fraction meter, an oil-gas-water multi-phase flow adjusting apparatus and a computing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Haimo Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jianwen Dou, Jinsong Wan, Ligang Zhang
  • Patent number: 8047072
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to flow meters and more particularly to improved plastic water flow meters for commercial or residential use. In various embodiments, a plastic water meter is provided that may include metal threads for connecting the water meter to a water system. In particular, the plastic water meter may include at least one spud that is shaped to receive and engage a plastic spud insert, in which the plastic spud insert may include a metal ring with a threaded outer surface. The plastic spud insert may include an annular lip portion extending outwardly to discourage removal of the metal ring when the spud insert is engaged with the water meter. Furthermore, the plastic spud insert and the inner surface of the metal ring may have complementary circumferential profiles to discourage relative rotation between the metal ring and the spud insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Marty Scott Ball, Jeremy Alan McCraven
  • Patent number: 7962576
    Abstract: The application is directed to methods, systems, procedures, networks and storage apparatus used to conduct conversions of data using remote conversion servers. In one embodiment of the present invention, recent query results may be stored and then used to solve subsequent conversions rather than querying a remote conversion server when the same conversion was previously completed. A counter may be referenced to determine if too much time has passed since the original query was stored in the buffer and, if too much time has passed, the buffer may be cleared and the remote conversion server may be queried to convert the pending data. The resulting conversion may be stored for subsequent use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: SAP AG
    Inventors: Guenter Spens, Ralf Mueller, Markus Seng
  • Patent number: 7930816
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an electromagnetic flow meter assembly is disclosed. The method comprises forming an insert from a deformable material, forming at least one reinforcing component; arranging the reinforcing component around a portion of the insert, and bonding the reinforcing component to the insert to reinforce the insert against deformation under the application of pressure. An electromagnetic flow meter assembly is also disclosed and comprises an insert for insertion into a flow conduit, wherein at least a portion of the insert is formed of a deformable non-ferromagnetic material, wherein the insert comprises an inlet section, a measuring section, and an outlet section. The assembly further comprises at least one reinforcing component surrounding the measuring section of the insert to reinforce the insert against deformation under the application of pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: ABB Limited
    Inventors: David Lincoln, Michael Armitage, David Burton
  • Publication number: 20110072896
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to flow meters and more particularly to improved plastic water flow meters for commercial or residential use. In various embodiments, a plastic water meter is provided that may include metal threads for connecting the water meter to a water system. In particular, the plastic water meter may include at least one spud that is shaped to receive and engage a plastic spud insert, in which the plastic spud insert may include a metal ring with a threaded outer surface. The plastic spud insert may include an annular lip portion extending outwardly to discourage removal of the metal ring when the spud insert is engaged with the water meter. Furthermore, the plastic spud insert and the inner surface of the metal ring may have complementary circumferential profiles to discourage relative rotation between the metal ring and the spud insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Marty Scott Ball, Jeremy Alan McCraven
  • Publication number: 20110011176
    Abstract: The invention relates to improving a system element for releasably sealed connecting of a measurement recorder to a fluid system, having a measurement chamber (6) that can be connected to the fluid system allowing flow through the same, wherein the measurement chamber (6) is formed in a housing (1) and a part of the wall of the measurement chamber (6) is formed by a membrane (2) that is substantially more flexible than the remainder of the wall of the measurement chamber (6), wherein the part of the wall adjacent to the membrane forms an outer wall (9) having an edge (10) whereon the membrane (2) bears, and the membrane (2) comprises a circumferential bead (11) located on the side of the membrane (2) facing the measurement chamber (6), wherein according to the invention, the bead (11) engages in a recess (12) formed in the housing (1) about the outer wall (9); and running around the measurement chamber (6), and protruding pins (13) are disposed in the region of the recess (12) about the outer wall (9), and wh
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: SARTORIUS STEDIM BIOTECH GMBH
    Inventor: Raymond Glocker
  • Patent number: 7854165
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to flow meters and more particularly to improved plastic water flow meters for commercial or residential use. In various embodiments, a plastic water meter is provided that may include metal threads for connecting the water meter to a water system. In particular, the plastic water meter may include at least one spud that is shaped to receive and engage a plastic spud insert, in which the plastic spud insert may include a metal ring with a threaded outer surface. The plastic spud insert may include an annular lip portion extending outwardly to discourage removal of the metal ring when the spud insert is engaged with the water meter. Furthermore, the plastic spud insert and the inner surface of the metal ring may have complementary circumferential profiles to discourage relative rotation between the metal ring and the spud insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Marty Scott Ball, Jeremy Alan McCraven
  • Patent number: 7584765
    Abstract: Potential leakage points are avoided, mishandling or loss of loose, unattached parts minimized and installation in tight places facilitated by a meter bar of elongated cast metal structure having a central bar, an outlet conduit section and an inlet conduit section, both integral with the meter bar. The inlet and outlet sections may include integral tail pieces and an upstream end of the inlet section includes an elongated, downwardly curved conduit to eliminate the need for the use of elbows, pipes or nipples, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: A. Y. McDonald Mfg. Co.
    Inventor: Jon Gohde
  • Publication number: 20090188313
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to flow meters and more particularly to improved plastic water flow meters for commercial or residential use. In various embodiments, a plastic water meter is provided that may include metal threads for connecting the water meter to a water system. In particular, the plastic water meter may include at least one spud that is shaped to receive and engage a plastic spud insert, in which the plastic spud insert may include a metal ring with a threaded outer surface. The plastic spud insert may include an annular lip portion extending outwardly to discourage removal of the metal ring when the spud insert is engaged with the water meter. Furthermore, the plastic spud insert and the inner surface of the metal ring may have complementary circumferential profiles to discourage relative rotation between the metal ring and the spud insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventors: Marty Scott Ball, Jeremy Alan McCraven
  • Patent number: 7509854
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for precise measurement of volumetric flow within an emissions source. A general rotation element is rotatable by an operator relative to the emissions source about an axis. A precision rotation element is rotatable by an operator relative to the general rotation element from a first position ninety degrees about the axis to a second position. A conduit receives a probe. The conduit is rotatable with the precision rotation element about the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Grace Consulting, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl Vineyard
  • Publication number: 20090044635
    Abstract: An extractor tool for an ultrasonic flow meter is disclosed. Some system embodiments comprise a bracket configured to couple to a spoolpiece of an ultrasonic flow meter and a tube inserted through and coupled to the bracket. The tube is configured to seal to the spoolpiece and permit a transducer to be selectively installed and removed therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: DANIEL MEASUREMENT AND CONTROL, INC.
    Inventor: Charles Robert Allen
  • Patent number: 7475602
    Abstract: A process and device for mounting a clamp-on flow rate measurement device on a measurement pipe using a mounting device having a holding strap with catches. The holding strap can be fastened on the measurement pipe by the holding strap being guided into and through the catch and tightened. A holder is attached to the holding strap to which the clamp-on flow rate measurement device can be fastened. First the mounting device is mounted on the measurement pipe, afterwards the clamp-on flow rate measurement device is attached to the holder without the holding strap being completely tensioned, so that the clamp-on flow rate measurement device is loosely held on the measurement pipe. Then, after aligning the clamp-on flow rate measurement device is, the clamp-on flow rate measurement device is completely attached to the holding means by further tensioning of the holding strap by lifting the catch off the measurement pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Krohne AG
    Inventors: Marcel Meijlom Molenaar, Jan Teunis Aart Pors, Jeroen Van Den Berg, Cornelis Johannes Hogendoorn
  • Publication number: 20080307911
    Abstract: A cable cover for an ultrasonic flow meter is disclosed. In some embodiments, the cable cover includes multiple interlockable pieces configured to couple to a spoolpiece of an ultrasonic flow meter. Each interlockable piece includes a body having a dowel and a slot. The interlockable pieces are assembled in a series with the dowel of each interlockable piece inserted into the slot of another interlockable piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Applicant: DANIEL MEASUREMENT AND CONTROL, INC.
    Inventor: Charles Robert Allen
  • Patent number: 7443313
    Abstract: A water meter transceiver coupled to a water meter has a head portion that houses a processor having a transceiver. The transceiver transmits water utility consumption data received from the water meter. A stem is coupled to the head portion and has a hollowed portion for containing a power source that is coupled to the processor. The stem may include threads to receive a nut that positions the head portion to a lid of a water meter container. The stem may include a switch that is coupled to the processor and configured to activate when the nut is coupled to the stem. If the nut is removed without authorization, the switch reports such, thereby causing the processor to execute a predetermined action, such as communicating an alert or disabling the water meter so as to prevent theft of the water utility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Hunt Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James S. Davis, David L. Heitert
  • Publication number: 20080257034
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for precise measurement of volumetric flow within an emissions source. A general rotation element is rotatable by an operator relative to the emissions source about an axis. A precision rotation element is rotatable by an operator relative to the general rotation element from a first position ninety degrees about the axis to a second position. A conduit receives a probe. The conduit is rotatable with the precision rotation element about the axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: Carl Vineyard
  • Publication number: 20080150750
    Abstract: The invention relates to a meter box for housing a utility meter and configured for associating a customer service line to a utility service line. The meter box may be configured to fit within an existing meter box and may be configured with side sections in a telescopic arrangement. Flow control components at an input of the meter box prevent backflow. The meter box comprises an electronic module that includes a variety of selectable features including datalogging, AMR, environmental monitoring, and resource monitoring. A remote monitor is provided for allowing a customer to view selected data including consumption data, pressure, pH, temperature, warnings, remote turnoff, and provide secured bill paying services. Imaging/audio components provide visual and audio data which may include an image of an analog readout for a meter register, images of the metering environment, and sound data for metering environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventors: Earl H. Parris, John Michael Kay
  • Patent number: 7347219
    Abstract: A meter bar and meter bar system are provided for directing a fluid. The meter bar includes a first portion, a second portion and a bypass path extending between the first and second portions. The first portion includes a first service port, a first meter port and a first valve. The second portion includes a second service port, a second meter port and a second valve. Each of the first and second valves are movable between metering positions and bypass positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: A. Y. McDonald Mfg. Co.
    Inventors: Jon Gohde, Brian Kretz
  • Patent number: 7328721
    Abstract: A flow rate controller for controlling the flow of a medium, includes an incoming channel, a measuring chamber, a running flow channel connecting the incoming channel and the measuring chamber, a control valve acting in the running flow channel, and an outflow channel for the controlled flow. A necessary flow channel leads from the incoming channel to the measuring chamber. There is a flow adjusting in the necessary flow channel. A service flow channel leads from the necessary flow channel to the outflow channel. In addition, the flow rate includes comprises control elements for leading the flow from the necessary flow channel selectively into the measuring chamber and service flow channel, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Instrumenttitehdas Kytola Oy
    Inventor: Olli Kytölä
  • Patent number: 7281545
    Abstract: A unitary water meter setter, preferably provided in an integral brass casting, has a continuous inlet pipe having an inwardly extending inlet service leg with a threaded end, and an inlet meter support leg extending upwardly with respect thereto to a threaded meter inlet end and a continuous outlet pipe having an inwardly extending outlet service leg aligned with the inlet service leg with a threaded end and an outlet meter support leg extending upwardly with respect thereto to a threaded meter outlet end. A central bracing structure rigidly connects spaces and positions the inlet and outlet pipes to receive a water meter and connecting components. The connecting components include a first set of two riser pipes each providing substantially the same rise, one of the riser pipes threadably connected at one end to the threaded meter inlet end of the inlet pipe, and the other riser pipe connected at one end to the meter outlet end of the outlet pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Mueller International, Inc.
    Inventor: Mitchell Hunt
  • Patent number: 7174798
    Abstract: A combined liquid flow tube alignment and liquid sensing system includes flow tube mounting and alignment hardware including a clip for fastening the hardware to a substrate; and a sensor for sensing integrated with the liquid flow tube mounting and alignment hardware, wherein fluid flowing through a flow tube mounted and aligned by the flow tube The flow tube mounting and alignment hardware includes a clip with internal periphery edges sized to match the external periphery edges of at least one sensing element associated with the sensor. At least two posts located at outer members of the clip above and below the tube. Posts are sized to be located ideally within a system to position and retain the outer diameter of liquid flow tube with respect to internal periphery edges of the clip and subsequently, the sensing element both horizontally and vertically. A center flexing member associated with the clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Duane J. Sies, Richard W. Gehman, Michael G. Marchini
  • Patent number: 6860164
    Abstract: A meter installation system has a hollow support arm with a first end and a second end and a central vertical portion there between. A retention device has a vertical slit defining a first edge and a second edge. A coupling bar lies adjacent to the first edge. A swivel is secured in line with the hollow coupling bar and has a flexible strap coupled between the swivel and the second edge to enable the diameter of the cylindrical retention device to vary. A crank adjacent to the first end of the support arm allows the user to supply rotational energy. A series of beveled gears transmit rotational energy from the crank through the hollow support arm and to the swivel to facilitate changing the retention device between the open position and the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Edward Holbrook
  • Patent number: RE39724
    Abstract: A flow probe for use in a humidification system is disclosed. The flow probe is adapted to be positioned in a humidified gases flow (for example oxygen or anesthetic gases) such as that which is provided to a patient in a hospital environment. The flow probe is designed to provide both temperature and flow rate sensing of the gases flow by incorporating two sensors (preferably thermistors) and the shape and alignment of the probe enables accurate readings by reducing the occurrence of condensation on the sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited
    Inventors: Lewis George Gradon, Stephen William McPhee, Paul John Seakins, Peter John Leonard