Patents by Inventor Ken E. Thomas

Ken E. Thomas 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).

  • Solenoid pilot operated air activated piston driven double seat accumulator drain valve
    Patent number: 6024114
    Abstract: A drain valve has an inlet (36) for liquids and small solids, an accumulation chamber (37) and an outlet (17). The outlet has a seal (13) which is connected to an air-activated piston (12). The piston is in turn connected to a positive air pressure inlet (18) via an air communication path (19) and a closure (22). The closure (22) is opened by a closure activation means (29), causing positive air pressure to flow to the piston (12), which briefly causes the outlet seal (13) to be opened, allowing liquids and small solids from the accumulation chamber to be expelled. Upon de-activation by the closure activation means (29), the closure (22) recloses, blocking the supply of positive air pressure to the piston (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: General Pneumatics Pty. Ltd.
    Inventors: Ken E. Thomas, Guiseppe Ragusa