Patents by Inventor Jeff M. Smith

Jeff M. Smith 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).

  • Sprinkler valve module with reciprocating valve seat
    Patent number: 8430376
    Abstract: A valve module for removable installation inside the outer case of a sprinkler after removal of a riser with a nozzle turret normally mounted for reciprocation within the case. The module includes an upper valve support housing and a lower support basket removably connected to the valve support housing. A valve member is vertically reciprocable within the valve support housing to engage and disengage a valve seat in the support basket. The support basket is loosely connected to the valve support housing so that the valve seat can reciprocate relative to the valve support housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Hunter Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred M. Danner, Jeff M. Smith, LaMonte D. Porter
  • Sprinkler having valve module with reciprocating valve seat
    Patent number: 7303147
    Abstract: A sprinkler includes an outer case and a riser mounted for reciprocation within the case. The riser supports a nozzle, an impeller, and a drive linkage connecting the nozzle and the impeller. A diaphragm valve is mounted in outer case beneath the riser and includes a valve member vertically reciprocable within a valve support housing to engage and disengage a valve seat. The valve seat can reciprocate relative to the valve support housing to reduce mechanical loading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Hunter Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred M. Danner, Jeff M. Smith