Patents by Inventor Curt VanWeelden

Curt VanWeelden has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20050150561
    Abstract: A hydraulic valve assembly is provided to activate and deactivate cylinder valves of a multi-cylinder engine. A plurality of electrohydraulic valves are loosely received in openings in a base plate which allows the relative positions of the valve to adjust automatically for dimensional irregularities as the assembly is installed on the engine. At the complete of that installation, elements of each electrohydraulic valve are clamped between the base plate and the engine to secure the valves in position. A flexible lead frame containing electrical conductors is secured to both the base plate and the electrohydraulic valves provides additional support while allowing movement of the valves with respect to the base plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Publication date: July 14, 2005
    Inventors: Edward Flynn, Curt VanWeelden, Michael Layne
  • Publication number: 20050150553
    Abstract: An electrically operated valve controls the flow of oil to and from a device that activates and deactivates a cylinder of a multi-cylinder engine. A first valve seat is between an inlet and a workport connected to the device and a second valve seat is between the workport and an outlet. A valve element engages the first valve seat when a solenoid actuator is energized. The valve element and the first valve seat cooperate to allow air to bleed from the inlet through the valve upon starting the engine, but prevent the oil from flowing in that path unless the solenoid actuator is energized. In one version of the valve, the valve element engages the second valve seat when disengaged from the first valve seat. In a second version, another valve element engages the second valve seat when oil flows through the first valve seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Publication date: July 14, 2005
    Inventors: Edward Flynn, Curt VanWeelden, Michael Layne