Abstract: A scroll-type fluid displacement apparatus including at least two scroll members, with each scroll member having a plate and spiral involute extending from the plate. The spiral involutes mesh to define fluid voids between the scroll members that become smaller towards the center of the scroll members. The apparatus also includes an eccentric crank mechanism having an elongated shaft with an eccentric portion. The elongated shaft is connected at one end to a motor and at another end to a machine, while the eccentric portion is rotatably received by one of the scroll members such that the scroll members will orbit with respect to one another as the shaft is turned by the motor. The apparatus also includes at least one eccentric guide for assisting the eccentric crank mechanism in retaining the scroll members in an orbiting relationship.

Abstract: A brake system valve having an anti-compounding feature is provided, comprising: a brake housing; a vent port in the housing; first and second control ports in the housing; a piston mounted within the housing, the piston having a passage connecting the vent port in fluid communication with the first control port when the piston is in a first position, the piston moveable to a second position to seal the vent within the housing.

Abstract: The present invention provides a brake actuator containing a spring and including a flange case having an outwardly facing receptacle, and a head having an inwardly facing receptacle. The head fits over the flange case such that the inwardly facing receptacle corresponds to the outwardly facing receptacle, and the actuator also includes a key positioned within the receptacles, whereby the head is rigidly secured to the flange case. According to one embodiment, the inwardly facing receptacle comprises a plurality of spaced-apart dimples, and the outwardly facing receptacle comprises a continuous, annular groove. According to another embodiment, the flange case includes an outwardly facing groove above the outwardly facing receptacle, and the brake actuator further includes a diaphragm having an outer periphery clamped within the groove in an airtight manner by the head. The present invention also provides a method of securing a head of a brake actuator to a flange case of the brake actuator.

Abstract: A cooler for air in a pneumatic brake system which includes a thermostatically controlled bypass is provided. The cooler includes a chamber which has an air inlet, an air outlet and a cooler outlet. The cooler also includes an air delivery which is in fluid communication with the air outlet. A cooling passageway is in fluid communication with the cooler outlet and the air delivery. A valve mounted within the chamber is biased to a closed position placing the air inlet and air outlet in fluid communication and is movable against the bias toward an open position placing the air inlet in fluid communication with the cooler outlet. A thermostat is mounted within the chamber such that when air entering the air inlet is above a predetermined temperature the thermostat moves the valve against the bias toward the open position to direct air through the cooling passageway.