Abstract: Combinable and interchangeable water features used on a standard universal mounting system to create the desired color, style, jet, directional flow, filter, light, return fittings, or other water feature for a pool or spa. Some water features include removably attached and rotatable male receptor and female receiver connections to create a variety of water effects.

Abstract: A shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator for engaging and actuating a device. The actuator includes an engagement mechanism, a bias element, and a SMA object(s). The SMA actuator may automatically and passively transfer to a backup or redundant feature that resets or extends the actuator's operational life. In one embodiment, the SMA actuator includes an additional SMA object(s) that replaces the primary SMA object(s) in the event the primary SMA object(s) breaks. The SMA actuator may also be configured to apply a dynamic stress to the SMA object during transition of the object to modify the transition temperatures of the object. The SMA actuator may be part of a fluid distribution system, such as a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system and used to control the flow of fluid, such as air, from the distribution system.

Abstract: A shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator for engaging and actuating a device. The actuator includes an engagement mechanism, a bias element, and a SMA object(s). The SMA actuator may automatically and passively transfer to a backup or redundant feature that resets or extends the actuator's operational life. In one embodiment, the SMA actuator includes an additional SMA object(s) that replaces the primary SMA object(s) in the event the primary SMA object(s) breaks. The SMA actuator may also be configured to apply a dynamic stress to the SMA object during transition of the object to modify the transition temperatures of the object. The SMA actuator may be part of a fluid distribution system, such as a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system and used to control the flow of fluid, such as air, from the distribution system.

Abstract: An actuator for a diffuser in a fluid distribution system is disclosed in which the actuator includes a shape memory alloy wire. The shape memory alloy wire cooperates with at least one diffuser blade to automatically change the flow pattern from the diffuser based on the temperature of the fluid provided to the diffuser. Also disclosed is a diffuser and a fluid distribution system including this actuator.

Abstract: A diffuser assembly is disclosed in which a plurality of baffles having baffle walls with baffle ears extending from selected baffle walls are part of the diffuser core. Adjacent baffle walls define a gap therebetween through which air from an air distribution system is forced to flow and to impinge the baffle ears. The baffle walls, baffle ears, and gaps provide for effective mixing of the air from the air distribution system with ambient air.

Abstract: A system and method for reducing the time for charging a filter in a liquid dispensing system, such as one utilizing a positive displacement pump, is disclosed. The filter is located at the input side of the pump between the source of the liquid and the pump. In order to prevent air from the filter from entering the pump a reservoir is provided between the filter and the source of the fluid. Air from the filter is vented into the reservoir through a vent tube. A vacuum is used to draw air from the filter and, through the reservoir.

Abstract: A system and method for reducing the time for charging a filter in a liquid dispensing system, such as one utilizing a positive displacement pump, is disclosed. The filter is located at the input side of the pump between the source of the liquid and the pump. In order to prevent air from the filter from entering the pump a reservoir is provided between the filter and the source of the fluid. Air from the filter is vented into the reservoir through a vent tube. A vacuum is used to draw air from the filter and, through the reservoir.