Patents by Inventor Steven M. Knowles

Steven M. Knowles 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).

  • Patent number: 6179904
    Abstract: An air powered flush machine capable of circulating a highly volatile flushing solvent through an air conditioning system or system components and then also capable of circulating a high volume of air through the system or components, to blow the solvent out of the components and thoroughly dry the system or components, without emitting an objectionable level of odour or hazardous level of fumes through the machines air exhaust outlet. The machine utilizes a receiving tank design which separates liquid solvent from the air flow before exhausting the air through its exhaust filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Brasscorp Ltd.
    Inventors: Steven M. Knowles, Jack Brass
  • Patent number: 5450875
    Abstract: A coupling member is provided for coupling a refrigerant line to a refrigerant port of a refrigeration system. The coupling member includes a generally cylindrical body member having a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, a radially inwardly facing surface defining an axially extending interior passageway, and a radially outwardly facing surface. The radially inwardly facing surface includes a circumferential fluid passageway portion. A radially extending fluid inlet passageway extends between the circumferential fluid passageway and the radially outwardly facing surface. An inner sleeve member is disposed in the axially extending interior passageway for axial movement therein. The inner sleeve member includes a wall having a radially inwardly facing surface defining an interior of the inner sleeve member, and a radially outwardly facing surface defining a boundary of the circumferential fluid passageway. A pin depressor member is disposed at least partially in the interior of the inner sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Assignee: White Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Dennis B. Chichester, Steven M. Knowles
  • Patent number: 5265438
    Abstract: A fluid flow circuit intended for use with heat pumps having a flow control valve comprising a pair of restrictor assemblies positioned in opposed relationship. The first restrictor assembly provides for restricted flow in a first direction and unrestricted flow in the opposed and second direction. The second restrictor assembly provides for restricted flow in the second direction and unrestricted flow in the first and opposed direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1993
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Steven M. Knowles, Frederick J. Pilon
  • Patent number: 5182922
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for an improved automotive air-conditioning system wherein the refrigerant transport system connecting the compressor to the evaporator and condenser comprises rigid tubing therby minimizing the loss of refrigerant otherwise experienced by use of flexible hose connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1993
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Alan R. Allread, Dennis B. Chichester, Russell L. Rogers, Steven M. Knowles
  • Patent number: 5180194
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for an improved automotive air-conditioning system wherein the refrigerant transport system connecting the compressor to the evaporator and condenser comprises rigid tubing thereby minimizing the loss of refrigerant otherwise experienced by use of flexible hose connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1993
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Alan R. Allread, Dennis B. Chichester, Russell L. Rogers, Steven M. Knowles
  • Patent number: 5139049
    Abstract: A refrigeration system service coupling having a valved service adapter employing a spring biased sleeve valve to maintain the adapter valve in a closed no flow condition except when the service adapter is properly connected to a charging port of predetermined configuration and capable of retaining the service adapter sleeve valve to permit opening of the service adapter valve upon the service adapter being properly connected to the charging port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1992
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Jon A. Jensen, Steven M. Knowles, Robert A. Laipply
  • Patent number: 4921013
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a coupling adapter for use with self-sealing valved coupling parts of the axially movable type for servicing and testing a fluid circuit. The adapter consists of a tubular body having a coupling end for connecting to the associated part and an axial passage wherein a threaded valve actuator is located having a free end adapted to releasably engage and displace the associated part's valve. A torque appling handle operatively associated with the valve actuator facilitates manual control of the valve's axial position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Robert D. Spalink, Steven M. Knowles, John T. Kosztowny
  • Patent number: 4896696
    Abstract: A restrictor for use in conduit systems, such as refrigeration and heat pump circuits for controlling the flow of fluid therein. The restrictor incorporates a unique shape to lower the operational noise normally generated by a restrictor without affecting the flow characteristics. Noise level is reduced by utilizing a specific configuration of the outer surfaces of the restrictor with respect to the direction of fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1990
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Andrew H. Bradley, Steven M. Knowles, Frederick J. Pilon
  • Patent number: 4892117
    Abstract: The invention relates to refrigeration couplings and more specifically to an improved valve construction for maximizing fluid flow in a small diameter coupling with a minimum of pressure loss. The invention incorporates a quick assembly of internal parts which are removable for repair and changing of the sealing rings which are used in the self-sealing valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1990
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Robert D. Spalink, Steven M. Knowles, John T. Kusztowny
  • Patent number: 4610466
    Abstract: A convertible fitting capable of selectively achieving a brazed, soldered or flared connection to a conduit. The fitting includes an interior passage and an exterior thread. The passage receives smooth wall conduit, such as tubing, for a braze or soldered connection, and an insert receivable within the fitting includes a conduit flare engaging surface and a seal cooperable with the fitting wherein the tightening of a conventional flare nut simultaneously seals the conduit flare to the insert and the insert to the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1986
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Linda L. Geer, Steven M. Knowles
  • Patent number: 4484384
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a hand operated swager for attaching swaged end fittings to flexible hose. The apparatus includes an elongated frame having a screw rotatably supported at one end thereof and restrained against axial movement. An adapter cooperates with the screw through a ball nut mounted upon the adapter wherein the adapter is linearly displaceable upon the frame toward and away from a frame mounted swaging die. The linear axial displacement between the adapter and screw is accommodated within the adapter permitting power means to be applied to the screw, if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1982
    Date of Patent: November 27, 1984
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventor: Steven M. Knowles
  • Patent number: 4290276
    Abstract: A valve member fitting utilizing a frangible closure wherein the fitting may be used with precharged conduits such as employed in the refrigeration arts. Additionally, the invention relates to fitting for precharged conduit systems utilizing frangible closure elements. A frangible valve element seals the passage of a valve, or conduit, and includes an axial portion engagable by a radially movable actuator capable of engaging the valve element and shearing a frangible web to completely remove the valve element from the flow passage, and a valve element receptacle retains the severed valve element. The valve is characterized by its economy of manufacture and absence of flow restriction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1979
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1981
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventor: Steven M. Knowles
  • Patent number: RE34781
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a coupling adapter for use with self-sealing valved coupling parts of the axially movable type for servicing and testing a fluid circuit. The adapter consists of a tubular body having a coupling end for connecting to the associated part and an axial passage wherein a threaded valve actuator is located having a free end adapted to releasably engage and displace the associated part's valve. A torque appling handle operatively associated with the value actuator facilitates manual control of the valve's axial position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1994
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Robert D. Spalink, Steven M. Knowles, John T. Kosztowny