Patents by Inventor Joseph Michael Burke

Joseph Michael Burke 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: 20250052602
    Abstract: A system for remotely measuring the characteristics of water passing through a plumbing control device (PCD)) includes a sensor within the interior of the PCD. The sensor is configured to measure characteristics of the water to obtain measured data. The sensor is also linked to a microcontroller of the PCD. An antenna board is linked, and configured to transmit power, to both the microcontroller and the sensor. A mobile device is configured to locate the antenna board. The mobile device transmits power to the antenna board which, in turn, transmits power to the microcontroller and the sensor. When power is not being transmitted from the antenna board, the microcontroller and the sensor are powered off.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2024
    Publication date: February 13, 2025
    Applicant: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael BURKE, Kyle McGURN, Evan Joseph SULTANA
  • Patent number: 12221776
    Abstract: A wireless communication system includes a plurality of sensors and a device. Each sensor is configured to measure data and communicate over a network using low power signal communication. The device is connected to an in-wall power source and configured to wirelessly communicate over the network using low power signal communication. Further, the device is configured to transmit data from the sensors to a remote gateway using high power signal communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2025
    Assignee: WATTS REGULATOR CO.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Burke, Ian David Baynes
  • Patent number: 12195954
    Abstract: A backflow preventer for preventing a reverse flow of water in a plumbing system including a body having an inlet and an outlet. The body forms an intermediate zone between the inlet and outlet. An inlet check valve prevents the reverse flow of water from the intermediate zone through the inlet. An outlet check valve prevents the flow of water from the outlet into the intermediate zone. An inlet pressure sensor, an intermediate pressure sensor and an outlet pressure sensor provide readings for the respective zones. A controller monitors a pressure differential between the outlet pressure zone and the intermediate pressure zone to compare the pressure differential to a pre-set range. The controller generates a warning/error message when the pressure differential is outside the pre-set range. The controller can also monitor an inlet pressure in the inlet zone to generate a message if the inlet pressure varies inappropriately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2025
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Burke, Kevin Simon, Ian David Baynes, Myoung Soo Park
  • Patent number: 12135230
    Abstract: A system for remotely measuring the characteristics of water passing through a plumbing control device (PCD) includes a sensor configured to measure characteristics of the water to obtain measured data. The sensor is also linked to a microcontroller of the PCD. An antenna board is linked, and configured to transmit power, to both the microcontroller and the sensor. The antenna board is configured to receive power transmitted from a mobile device and, in turn, transmit power to the microcontroller and the sensor. When power is not being transmitted from the antenna board, the microcontroller and the sensor may be powered off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2024
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Burke, Kyle McGurn, Evan Joseph Sultana
  • Publication number: 20240316481
    Abstract: A piping apparatus is provided, which comprises a strainer comprising a strainer housing including a strainer branch; wherein the strainer housing includes one or more pressure sensors; wherein, when a strainer element is in the strainer branch, at least one pressure sensor of the plurality of pressure sensors is fixed to the strainer housing at a location upstream of the strainer element and/or is fixed to the strainer housing at a location downstream of the strainer element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2024
    Publication date: September 26, 2024
    Applicant: WATTS REGULATOR CO.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Burke, Ian David Baynes, Thomas Jeffery Rudnick, Joshua Raymund Saber
  • Publication number: 20240254738
    Abstract: A system to monitor and control a water supply includes a plumbing fixture coupled to a water supply; a temperature sensor to generate temperature sensor data indicative of an ambient temperature around the plumbing fixture; and a controller including a battery power supply. The controller is configured to determine a first battery level of the battery power supply, responsive to determining that the first battery level exceeds a first battery level threshold, the controller is also configured to set a timer to a first time duration; the controller is further configured to determine a first temperature for the one or more temperature sensors based on the temperature sensor data and responsive to determining that the first temperature satisfies a first condition, the controller is also configured to cause a transmission of a first notification corresponding to the first condition to a remote computing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2024
    Publication date: August 1, 2024
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Burke, Ian David Baynes, Matthew Fratantonio
  • Publication number: 20240200313
    Abstract: A sprinkler backflow alert system includes a sprinkler system, a building fire panel, a backflow preventor including at least one shut-off valve, a fluid detection system, and a tamper switch. The backflow preventor may be fluidly coupled upstream of the sprinkler system. The fluid detection system is configured to detect a discharge of water from the backflow preventor and generate a water discharge signal corresponding to the backflow discharge. The tamper switch is configured to detect a change in a position of the at least one shut-off valve and generate a tamper signal in the event the at least one shut-off valve is closed or partially closed. When a backflow discharge event occurs, a signal is sent to the fire panel triggering the building fire alarm as well as sending an alert to the local fire department and facility owner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2024
    Publication date: June 20, 2024
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Burke, Ian David Baynes
  • Patent number: 12000123
    Abstract: A backflow preventer including a body having an inlet for connection to an upstream portion of a plumbing system and an outlet for connection to a downstream portion of the plumbing system, a first check valve and a second check valve located in the body for preventing the reverse flow of water between the outlet and the inlet. An inlet pressure zone is positioned between the inlet and the first check valve, an outlet pressure zone is positioned between the outlet and the second check valve, and an intermediate pressure zone is positioned between the first and the second check valves. Position sensors sense the positions of the check valves, and pressure sensors sense the pressures in the zone. A controller in communication with the position sensors and the pressure sensors calculates the opening and closing pressures of the check valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2024
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Burke, Kevin Simon, Ian David Baynes
  • Publication number: 20240011260
    Abstract: A wireless communication system includes a plurality of sensors and a device. Each sensor is configured to measure data and communicate over a network using low power signal communication. The device is connected to an in-wall power source and configured to wirelessly communicate over the network using low power signal communication. Further, the device is configured to transmit data from the sensors to a remote gateway using high power signal communication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2023
    Publication date: January 11, 2024
    Applicant: WATTS REGULATOR CO.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael BURKE, Ian David BAYNES
  • Publication number: 20230375385
    Abstract: Please replace the originally filed abstract with the substitute abstract provided below. A temperature and pressure relief valve apparatus including a body having a first conduit connected to a water heater and a second conduit connected to a discharge pipe. A valve member, positioned between the first and second conduits, is normally biased closed to prevent flow between the conduits. The valve member is configured such that when a temperature or pressure within the water heater exceeds a predetermined level, the valve member opens to relieve pressure and, in turn, water is released through the second conduit. A sensor is disposed about the second conduit and coupled to a controller. The controller measures a capacitance value of the second conduit, detects a change in the capacitance value indicating a presence of water in the second conduit, and asserts an alarm condition upon detection of the change in the second conduit capacitance value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2023
    Publication date: November 23, 2023
    Applicant: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael BURKE, Yousef S. ALMESAD
  • Patent number: 11815424
    Abstract: A test cock for determining an operating condition of a backflow prevention system includes a body portion having a distal end and a proximal end and a space defined within the body portion. A distal opening is provided on the body portion at the distal end and a proximal opening is provided on the body portion at the proximal end and the proximal opening is in fluid connection with the body portion space. A body portion fitting is disposed in the body portion and is providing a fluid connection with the body portion space. A fluid sensor is coupled to the body portion fitting and is in fluid connection with the body portion space. A rotating system fitting has a first end and a second end where the second end is provided in the body portion proximal opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Burke, Muhannad Bagegni, Jason Doughty, Frank DiBenedetto, Ian David Baynes
  • Patent number: 11795666
    Abstract: A wireless communication system includes a plurality of sensors and a device. Each sensor is configured to measure data and communicate over a network using low power signal communication. The device is connected to an in-wall power source and configured to wirelessly communicate over the network using low power signal communication. Further, the device is configured to transmit data from the sensors to a remote gateway using high power signal communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Burke, Ian David Baynes
  • Patent number: 11739507
    Abstract: A test cock is configured to connect to a test cock port. The test cock includes a body portion defining a flowpath between a distal end and a proximal end. The test cock includes an intake stem at the proximal end that has external threads to connect the test cock to the test cock port. The intake stem defines an intake opening connected to the flowpath, the intake opening having a non-circular shape, such as a hexagonal shape. The test cock also includes an extraction tool having an end forming the non-circular shape of the intake opening, the end being sized to fit within and engage the intake opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2023
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Burke, Kevin Simon
  • Patent number: 11703364
    Abstract: A fluid discharge event detection apparatus measures a change in capacitance to detect the presence of a fluid in a sensing conduit where the presence of fluid indicates a discharge event. The apparatus includes a first conduit, the sensing conduit and a control valve, coupled between the first conduit and the sensing conduit. The control valve is configured to activate and fluidly couple the first conduit and the sensing conduit to one another when the control valve detects at least one predetermined condition of a fluid within the first conduit. A sensor, configured to measure a capacitance value, is disposed about the sensing conduit. A controller, coupled to the sensor, is configured to detect a change in the sensing conduit capacitance value and assert an alarm condition upon detection of the change in the sensing conduit capacitance value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Burke, Yousef S. AlMesad
  • Publication number: 20230116158
    Abstract: A system for remotely measuring the characteristics of water passing through a plumbing control device (PCD) includes a sensor within the interior of the PCD. The sensor is configured to measure characteristics of the water to obtain measured data. The sensor is also linked to a microcontroller of the PCD. An antenna board is linked, and configured to transmit power, to both the microcontroller and the sensor. A mobile device is configured to locate the antenna board. The mobile device transmits power to the antenna board which, in turn, transmits power to the microcontroller and the sensor. When power is not being transmitted from the antenna board, the microcontroller and the sensor are powered off.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2022
    Publication date: April 13, 2023
    Inventors: Joseph Michael BURKE, Kyle McGURN, Evan Joseph SULTANA
  • Publication number: 20230073327
    Abstract: A backflow prevention assembly is configurable with varying lay-lengths and orientations. The assembly includes coupling assemblies and valve bodies that adjust in length and/or rotation to allow for the varying lay-lengths and orientations of the backflow prevention valves and assemblies with and without certification. A coupling assembly is connected to a backflow prevention valve and includes an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve that is slidingly received within the outer sleeve. The lay-length is adjusted by slidably moving the inner and outer sleeves with respect to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2022
    Publication date: March 9, 2023
    Inventors: Jason Doughty, Ian David Baynes, Joseph Michael Burke, Frank Dibenedetto, Muhannad A. Bagegni
  • Patent number: 11543278
    Abstract: A system for remotely measuring the characteristics of water passing through a plumbing control device (PCD) includes a sensor within the interior of the PCD. The sensor is configured to measure characteristics of the water to obtain measured data. The sensor is also linked to a microcontroller of the PCD. An antenna board is linked, and configured to transmit power, to both the microcontroller and the sensor. A mobile device is configured to locate the antenna board. The mobile device transmits power to the antenna board which, in turn, transmits power to the microcontroller and the sensor. When power is not being transmitted from the antenna board, the microcontroller and the sensor are powered off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Burke, Kyle McGurn, Evan Joseph Sultana
  • Publication number: 20220403632
    Abstract: A backflow preventer including a body having an inlet for connection to an upstream portion of a plumbing system and an outlet for connection to a downstream portion of the plumbing system, a first check valve and a second check valve located in the body for preventing the reverse flow of water between the outlet and the inlet. An inlet pressure zone is positioned between the inlet and the first check valve, an outlet pressure zone is positioned between the outlet and the second check valve, and an intermediate pressure zone is positioned between the first and the second check valves. Position sensors sense the positions of the check valves, and pressure sensors sense the pressures in the zone. A controller in communication with the position sensors and the pressure sensors calculates the opening and closing pressures of the check valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2022
    Publication date: December 22, 2022
    Inventors: Joseph Michael BURKE, Kevin SIMON, Ian David BAYNES
  • Publication number: 20220333360
    Abstract: A backflow preventer for preventing a reverse flow of water in a plumbing system including a body having an inlet and an outlet. The body forms an intermediate zone between the inlet and outlet. An inlet check valve prevents the reverse flow of water from the intermediate zone through the inlet. An outlet check valve prevents the flow of water from the outlet into the intermediate zone. An inlet pressure sensor, an intermediate pressure sensor and an outlet pressure sensor provide readings for the respective zones. A controller monitors a pressure differential between the outlet pressure zone and the intermediate pressure zone to compare the pressure differential to a pre-set range. The controller generates a warning/error message when the pressure differential is outside the pre-set range. The controller can also monitor an inlet pressure in the inlet zone to generate a message if the inlet pressure varies inappropriately.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2022
    Publication date: October 20, 2022
    Inventors: Joseph Michael BURKE, Kevin SIMON, Ian David BAYNES
  • Patent number: 11448348
    Abstract: A backflow prevention assembly is configurable with varying lay-lengths and orientations. The assembly includes coupling assemblies and valve bodies that adjust in length and/or rotation to allow for the varying lay-lengths and orientations of the backflow prevention valves and assemblies with and without certification. A coupling assembly is connected to a backflow prevention valve and includes an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve that is slidingly received within the outer sleeve. The lay-length is adjusted by slidably moving the inner and outer sleeves with respect to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Jason Doughty, Ian David Baynes, Joseph Michael Burke, Frank DiBenedetto, Muhannad A. Bagegni