Patents by Inventor Eric G. Keifer

Eric G. Keifer 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: 20120107144
    Abstract: A variable bore reciprocating compressor cylinder, with a family of removable liners of various diameters that can accommodate significant changes in bore diameters without significant increases in fixed clearance volume. In one embodiment of the invention, valves are added or subtracted as required in conjunction with optimizing the flow area of the liner and head ports to minimize clearance volume and to keep overall flow losses within acceptable values. In another embodiment of the invention, smaller valves and valve extension insert/adapters are incorporated to further extend the practical operating range with smaller bore diameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Eric G. Keifer
  • Patent number: 5580230
    Abstract: A scroll type machine is disclosed which incorporates an improved mounting arrangement for the non-orbiting scroll member which mounting arrangement greatly facilitates manufacturing and assembly, effectively prevents radial displacement of the non-orbiting scroll member, and offers the advantages of axial compliance. In one embodiment, the non-orbiting scroll is axially movably secured to a bearing housing by means of a plurality of bolts or bolts and sleeves. In another embodiment a rigid annular ring serves to axially movably secure the non-orbiting scroll to the bearing housing while in a third embodiment a stamped ring is secured to both the non-orbiting scroll and the bearing housing. In another embodiment a two piece main bearing housing includes an integral ring for radially positioning the non-orbiting scroll member and means for securing anti-rotation and axial stop means thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Copeland Corporation
    Inventors: Eric G. Keifer, James F. Fogt, Gary K. Fain, Gary J. Anderson, Mark Bass, Jean-Luc Caillat, John P. Elson, Kenneth J. Monnier