Rectilinear Indicator Patents (Class 116/272)
  • Patent number: 12145014
    Abstract: A method of monitoring quality of extinguishing water in a sprinkler system by measuring electrical conductivity of the extinguishing water on at least one sprinkler head connected to an extinguishing water line. A quality and/or quality change of the extinguishing water is inferred from a measured conductivity value. A sprinkler head is disclosed that is suitable for carrying out the method. This sprinkler head has a connection fitting having a pipe section for connection to a free end of an extinguishing water pipe. A closure piece selectively closes the pipe section or free end of the extinguishing water pipe. A thermal trigger element holds the closure piece in a closed position in a normal state, and permits the closure piece to move into an open position at a trigger temperature. A conductivity sensor for measuring the electrical conductivity of the extinguishing water is provided on the sprinkler head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2024
    Assignee: Job Lizenz GmbH
    Inventors: Bodo Müller, Rüdiger Klug, Jürgen Teschner
  • Patent number: 12043408
    Abstract: A hard landing indicator assembly is disclosed herein. The hard landing indicator assembly includes a pressure relief valve, a hydraulic tube having a first end and a second end, the first end coupled to the pressure relief valve, and a plunger having a top portion and a shaft, the plunger disposed in the hydraulic tube, wherein a portion of the shaft is a hard landing indicator that extends outward from the hydraulic tube in response to a hard landing event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2023
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2024
    Assignee: GOODRICH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hemanth M N, Basavaraj Bodki
  • Patent number: 11788922
    Abstract: A burst-duct detection system is provided. The system may include a manifold; a rolling diaphragm dividing a chamber within the manifold into a top portion and a bottom portion; a high pressure chamber in fluid communication with the top portion of the manifold; an ambient pressure chamber in fluid communication with the bottom portion of the manifold; a piston disposed within the top portion of the manifold and operably connected to the diaphragm; a mechanical link may include a proximal end, a distal end, and a middle portion, the mechanical link being disposed within a core chamber of the manifold and the proximal end operably connected to the piston; and an indicator piston operably connected to the mechanical link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: PTI Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Joe Marban, Kanwar Suri
  • Patent number: 11646563
    Abstract: A fault detection system that includes a recloser configured to perform a reclosing operation in response to detecting overcurrent, where the recloser includes a communications device for receiving communications signals. The system also includes a transformer having an outer can, a sensor mounted to the can and extending into the can for measuring pressure therein, where the sensor includes a mechanical indicator that extends when overpressure is detected. The transformer further includes a radio mounted to the can and coupled to the sensor, where the radio includes a switch coupled to the mechanical indicator and a transmitter. When the mechanical indicator extends in response to detecting overpressure in the can it causes the switch to close which causes the transmitter to send a signal that is received by the communications device, which prevents the recloser from reclosing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Assignee: S&C Electric Company
    Inventor: Thomas J. Tobin
  • Patent number: 11609140
    Abstract: A display structure of a pressure gauge of an air compressor, the air compressor is received in an accommodation box, and a scale portion of the pressure gauge is viewable via a displaying opening of the accommodation box, the pressure gauge includes a cylindrical body which is transparent and is formed in a pen shape, and the pressure gauge includes a colored O-ring configured to indicate a pressure value of the scale portion. The scale portion is not printed on the cylindrical body of the pressure gauge and includes a transparent panel on which the pressure value of the scale portion is marked on an internal face of the transparent panel, and the internal face faces the cylindrical body of the pressure gauge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Inventors: Wen-San Chou, Cheng-Hsien Chou
  • Patent number: 10466128
    Abstract: An over-pressure indicator, including a cup-shaped body having, on its bottom, a hole inside which is sealably housed a mobile element loaded by a spring towards the bottom of the cup-shaped body, the mobile element facing an indicator sensitive part for communication with an area where pressure verification is wanted. The mobile element coupled with a signaller of a movement thereof. The spring pressed by a pre-loading ring nut screwed onto the cup-shaped body. The nut torsionally removably coupled with a calibration cap of the indicator. The calibration cap having at least one stop that, when it abuts against a portion of the cup-shaped body, limits further screwing of the nut thus determining pressure beyond which mobile element movement is allowed. The movement causing intervention of the indicator so by coupling the suitable calibration cap and indicator and screwing it in fully, setting the indicator intervention pressure is possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: DROPSA S.P.A.
    Inventor: Walter Divisi
  • Patent number: 9851276
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments provide a packing leak detection system for leaks or discharge of a volatile material which discharge into the environment is subject to regulation. The system contains a compressor apparatus including a compressor cylinder, a compressor piston, a compressor piston rod positioned in a packing case, wherein a volatile material being compressed by the compressor apparatus leaks from the packing case. Also provided is a leak detector sized and configured to detect and monitor leaks of the volatile material from the packing case. Methods of assessing leaks of a volatile material subject to environmental regulation are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Inventors: John P. Miguez, Jonathan D. Mann
  • Patent number: 9770566
    Abstract: A spirometer-type device is described that is designed to improve patient compliance with therapeutic breathing for improved pulmonary function. In an example embodiment, a display of human lungs is provided that visually elevate with inhalation. A patient's progress is visualized with a featured conspicuous level marker and upward motions of lungs that are seen from both sides of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Inventor: Jessica Meyers
  • Patent number: 9574962
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a hydraulic attachment comprising a hydraulic circuit, the attachment being a construction or demolition tool, in particular a hydraulic breaker, demolition shears, scrap shears, a pulverizer, a gripper, a crusher bucket or a compactor, which can be mechanically connected to a support device and hydraulically connected to the hydraulic system of the support device. In order to enable the hydraulic circuit to be opened quickly and safely within an attachment and, in particular, to make it possible to display the presence of a particular pressure level within a hydraulic attachment and to determine whether a dangerous residual pressure is present in the system, a hydraulic attachment is proposed that has a residual pressure display (40) which is connected to the hydraulic circuit of the attachment in a detachable or non-detachable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: CONSTRUCTION TOOLS GMBH
    Inventors: Oliver Preuss, Stefan Lohmann, Colin Dirr, Oleg Knjazev, Martina Jaekel, Uwe Autschbach, Markus Mellwig
  • Patent number: 9383183
    Abstract: A pressure indicator for a high-pressure accumulator system, and which includes a pressure indicating element having a channel. The pressure indicating element moves between a starting position and a pressure-indicating position in response to pressure on a side facing a pressure-monitoring region and which is counter to a force of at least one compression spring on the pressure indicating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: MAGNA STEYR Fahrzeugtechnik AG & Co KG
    Inventors: Franz Mayr, Carsten Schmidt, Alexander Schärfl
  • Patent number: 8864890
    Abstract: A clog indicating device indicating clogging of a dust collecting filter in a dust collector is disclosed. The dust collector includes on an upper region of its casing an exhaust port opening upward, and a cover member is mounted interspatially above the exhaust port. A colored indicating float is so located as to be movable upward between the exhaust port and the cover member due to pressure of an air exhausted from the exhaust port. Clogging of a dust collecting filter is indicated according to a degree of exposure or a position in an up and down direction of the indicating float between the exhaust port and the cover member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Aoiseiko Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Satoshi Sakuragi, Yoshifumi Kamakura
  • Patent number: 8851108
    Abstract: Embodiments of a method of operating a safety valve and a safety valve system are provided. The valve system includes a valve, an actuator, a mechanical override, and an indicator. The actuator includes a fail-safe mechanism and the indicator is configured to indicate whether the fail-safe mechanism is operable during use of at least one of the actuator and the mechanical override. In one embodiment, a method of operating the safety valve includes actuating the valve into an open position and sending a signal to indicate that the fail-safe mechanism is operable to move the valve to the closed position, while the valve is in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: SAFOCO, Inc.
    Inventors: David Lymberopoulos, Benjamin R. Matthews
  • Patent number: 8763983
    Abstract: Embodiments of a method of operating a safety valve and a safety valve system are provided. The valve system includes a valve, an actuator, a mechanical override, and an indicator. The actuator includes a fail-safe mechanism and the indicator is configured to indicate whether the fail-safe mechanism is operable during use of at least one of the actuator and the mechanical override. In one embodiment, a method of operating the safety valve includes actuating the valve into an open position and sending a signal to indicate that the fail-safe mechanism is operable to move the valve to the closed position, while the valve is in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Safoco, Inc.
    Inventors: David Lymberopoulos, Benjamin R. Matthews
  • Patent number: 8733270
    Abstract: A pressure indication device is provided to connect to an inflation mechanism of an inflation machine. The pressure indication device includes a linearly movable plate and an elastic element. A scale bar having graduations is provided along a moving path of the plate. The elastic force of compression of the elastic element serves as a reaction force (restoration and returning force) for the linear movement of the plate. Correspondingly, a pressure is induced in an air compartment of the inflation mechanism the so that the moving distance of the plate is indicative of the pressure level and thus precise measurement of pressure can be realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventor: Chi-Wen Chen
  • Patent number: 8136472
    Abstract: An indicator includes a case mountable in a gas filling passage of a pressure container; a valve element which is urged toward one side of the case connectable to the pressure container, the valve element being movable in the case to a position balanced with gas pressure in the pressure container; a seal member for ensuring gas tightness between the valve element and the case; and an indicating member slidable relative to the case between a position protruding outside the case and a position not protruding. The spring force and a gas pressure force may be equally balanced at first and second balanced positions of the valve element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Oishi Machine, Inc., Hyson Products
    Inventors: Junji Yamauchi, Yasuhito Hanaki, Kuniharu Iwamoto, Toshiaki Matsuno, Masahiko Okumura, Henry J. Kelm
  • Patent number: 8123028
    Abstract: A contact lens storage and cleaning case is described. The case compromises (a) two contact lens chambers that are closed via a chamber cap for each contact lens; and (b) fluid reservoir and integrated pump. The contact lens chamber can be closed using removable chamber caps each of which has a flexible compressible cavity in whose center is mounted a flexible cap membrane that faces and isolates the chamber. Air can escape from the cavity via an opening in the chamber cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: Cornelius Doniga
  • Patent number: 8048141
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to medical devices that provide signals to diagnostic equipment such that functionality of an implantable member can be determined. In particular, various designs and structures are utilized to signal tissue growth on an implantable member such as a stent. The tissue growth can limit flow through the stented lumen. If the growth has a thickness above a certain limit, a signal can be detected by diagnostic equipment such that a proper diagnosis can be made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: Jonathan S. Stinson
  • Patent number: 7975527
    Abstract: Indicator devices and systems are provided. Indicator devices include a sleeve, a dome-like transparent member, a connector body, and an indicator. In alternate embodiments, indicator devices include a sleeve and an indicator retained in the sleeve by a retaining ring and a latch held in place by a spring. Indicator systems include an indicator device coupled to an enclosure containing critical equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventor: Joseph Michael Manahan
  • Patent number: 7954445
    Abstract: A pressure state indicator indicates whether or not positive pressure fluid or negative pressure fluid is supplied to a fluid path. A fluid guide member 17 is constituted of a joint main body 11 in which a fluid path 12 is formed and a partition member 16 provided outside the joint main body 11, and an accommodation space 19 is formed by the partition member 16 and the joint main body 11. A pressure chamber 22a communicating with the fluid path 12 through a communicating hole 23 is formed in the accommodation space 19 by a sliding sealing member 21 provided in the accommodation space 19. The sliding sleeve 24 is located at a non-supply position by a spring member 25 when no pressure is supplied to the fluid path 12, and the sliding sleeve 24 is moved to a supply position when pressure is supplied thereto. A pressure state in the fluid path 12 is externally confirmed by observing positions of the sliding sealing member 21 and the sliding sleeve 24 from outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Koganei Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Satoh
  • Publication number: 20100212579
    Abstract: A pressure state indicator indicates whether or not positive pressure fluid or negative pressure fluid is supplied to a fluid path. A fluid guide member 17 is constituted of a joint main body 11 in which a fluid path 12 is formed and a partition member 16 provided outside the joint main body 11, and an accommodation space 19 is formed by the partition member 16 and the joint main body 11. A pressure chamber 22a communicating with the fluid path 12 through a communicating hole 23 is formed in the accommodation space 19 by a sliding sealing member 21 provided in the accommodation space 19. The sliding sleeve 24 is located at a non-supply position by a spring member 25 when no pressure is supplied to the fluid path 12, and the sliding sleeve 24 is moved to a supply position when pressure is supplied thereto. A pressure state in the fluid path 12 is externally confirmed by observing positions of the sliding sealing member 21 and the sliding sleeve 24 from outside.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Hiroshi Satoh
  • Patent number: 6976448
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a restriction indicator for an air cleaner system of an internal combustion engine. The restriction indicator includes a housing divided into first and second chambers by a diaphragm. A signal member is connected to the diaphragm. The signal member is moveable along an axis between a reset position and a first indicator position, and defines an axial opening within which a first retaining shoulder is located. A guide member is provided for guiding the signal member as the signal member is moved between the reset position and the first axial position. A retaining member is provided for retaining the signal member in the first indicator position. The retaining member extends within the axial opening of the signal member and includes at least two fingers that project radially outward from the axis. The fingers are configured to engage the first retaining shoulder to retain the signal member in the first indicator position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Donaldson Company, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Krisko, William E. Couillard, Robert W. Diver, Wayne A. Kaul, Bernard A. Matthys, Larry R. Nepsund
  • Patent number: 6955169
    Abstract: A device used with fluid canisters comprising a transparent body allowing the viewing of movement within the body having a minor and major cavity with a float indicator and float seat within the minor cavity. An inhaler top and bottom fits each end of the body forming an airtight chamber within the major and minor cavity above the float, the top having a seat to accept a canister and a nozzle aperture to accept a nozzle of the canister oriented to release fluid from the canister into the major cavity. An inlet through the minor cavity below the seat maintains pressure equal to pressure outside of the body within the minor cavity. Inhalation through a mouthpiece and one way valve reduces pressure within the major and minor cavity above the float drawing fluid through the one way valve creating a pressure difference across the float causing it to move.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: Khaja H. Khan
  • Patent number: 6827846
    Abstract: A T-handle for a filter includes an integral mechanical indicator. The T-handle indicator has a threaded portion that extends through a hole in the filter cover and retains the cover to a canister. The indicator includes a spring-biased button that provides a visual indication of whether the element needs to be replaced. The button is received in a body that is open to the pressure on the downstream side of the filter element. A pair of clips on the button engage the indicator body to retain the button in the inward (element change) position. The clips can be accessed when the T-handle indicator is removed from the filter to return the button to the outward (fresh element) position. The indicator button includes an axially-elongated slot extending radially through the button, and the body includes a corresponding pair of holes on opposite sides of the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventor: Steven R. Knight
  • Publication number: 20040211353
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an air pressure monitoring system for monitoring the air pressure being supplied to an air tool during use. The air pressure monitoring system of the present invention provides a binary indication of whether the air pressure within an operating tool is inside a pre-determined pressure range or outside the pre-determined pressure range utilizing a mechanical pressure gauge. The invention also concerns a continuous flow air tool that incorporates an air pressure monitoring system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventors: Bobby Lynn Lawrence, Gregory Allen Kramer, Daniel Edward Preston
  • Publication number: 20040187765
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a restriction indicator for an air cleaner system of an internal combustion engine. The restriction indicator includes a housing divided into first and second chambers by a diaphragm. A signal member is connected to the diaphragm. The signal member is moveable along an axis between a reset position and a first indicator position, and defines an axial opening within which a first retaining shoulder is located. A guide member is provided for guiding the signal member as the signal member is moved between the reset position and the first axial position. A retaining member is provided for retaining the signal member in the first indicator position. The retaining member extends within the axial opening of the signal member and includes at least two fingers that project radially outward from the axis. The fingers are configured to engage the first retaining shoulder to retain the signal member in the first indicator position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Applicant: DONALDSON COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: William J. Krisko, William E. Couillard, Robert W. Diver, Wayne A. Kaul, Bernard A. Matthys, Larry R. Nepsund
  • Patent number: 6748897
    Abstract: A magnet is attached to a piston which slides in the interior of a casing due to action of fluid pressure, a guide groove is provided on a side face of the casing in a movement direction of the piston, an indicator is received in the guide groove, and at least one portion of the indicator is formed of a magnetic body, so that the indicator can displace following the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Akira Enzaki, Yoichi Morodomi
  • Patent number: 6659037
    Abstract: A vacuum insulation panel comprises a barrier film and a core material and a vacuum detection indicator. The vacuum detection indicator is configured to facilitate the evaluation of the integrity of the vacuum within the vacuum insulation panel. The vacuum detection indicator may comprise a cavity in the core material which allows the barrier material to form a depression when a vacuum is drawn within the panel. Accordingly, as the vacuum is reduced or lost, the depression formed in the barrier material will be similarly reduced or lost. In addition, the vacuum detection indicator may comprise a viewing window configured with electrical contacts above the barrier material to permit the evaluator to readily determine whether the vacuum has been reduced or lost. Further, the vacuum detection indicator may comprise a spring-like device configured within the cavity to urge the barrier film against the electrical contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Tuscarora Incorporated
    Inventor: Eric M. Hagopian
  • Patent number: 6655316
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a visual valve indicator comprised of a handle assembly with peripheral sidewalls attached to a linear moving valve stem for opening and closing of the valve and a grommet stratified into one or more color bands attached to and surrounding the base of the valve stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventors: Leon Kerger, Bert Pistor
  • Patent number: 6651834
    Abstract: A stopper for a bottle includes a resilient outer body having an axial bore, a rigid inner body disposed within the bore, and a valve actuator moveably disposed within an axial opening of the inner body. A lower flange portion of the outer body extends radially across the bore to an axial aperture having a sealing surface. The valve actuator has an upper operator portion connected to a lower valve body portion by a longitudinally extending shaft portion. The valve body portion is sealingly engageable with the sealing surface of the orifice to close the orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Hometec Limited
    Inventor: Chung Lun Wong
  • Patent number: 6604486
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a restriction indicator for an air cleaner system of an internal combustion engine. The restriction indicator includes a housing divided into first and second chambers by a diaphragm. A signal member is connected to the diaphragm. The signal member is moveable along an axis between a reset position and a first indicator position, and defines an axial opening within which a first retaining shoulder is located. A guide member is provided for guiding the signal member as the signal member is moved between the reset position and the first axial position. A retaining member is provided for retaining the signal member in the first indicator position. The retaining member extends within the axial opening of the signal member and includes at least two fingers that project radially outward from the axis. The fingers are configured to engage the first retaining shoulder to retain the signal member in the first indicator position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Donaldson Company, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Krisko, William E. Couillard, Robert W. Diver, Wayne A. Kaul, Bernard A. Matthys, Larry R. Nepsund
  • Publication number: 20030056711
    Abstract: A pressure indication device including a housing with an opening in communication with a pressure vessel, a plunger moveable in the housing between a pressurized position and a non-pressurized position, a seal between the opening and the plunger, an indicator over the plunger and biased into a flag position, and a locking mechanism for holding the indicator in a set position until the plunger moves to the non-pressurized position whereupon the indicator returns to the flag position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: Brian R. Tranter
  • Publication number: 20030041793
    Abstract: A vacuum insulation panel according to the present invention addresses many of the shortcomings of the prior art. In accordance with the present invention, a vacuum insulation panel comprises a barrier film and a core material and a vacuum detection indicator. The vacuum detection indicator is configured to facilitate the evaluation of the integrity of the vacuum within the vacuum insulation panel. The vacuum detection indicator may comprise a cavity in the core material which allows the barrier material to form a depression when a vacuum is drawn within the panel. Accordingly, as the vacuum is reduced or lost, the depression formed in the barrier material will be similarly reduced or lost. In addition, the vacuum detection indicator may comprise a viewing window configured above the barrier material to permit the evaluator to readily determine whether the vacuum has been reduced or lost. Further, the vacuum detection indicator may comprise a spring-like device configured within the cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: Insulated Shipping Containers, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric M. Hagopian
  • Patent number: 6470821
    Abstract: A vacuum insulation panel comprises a barrier film and a core material and a vacuum detection indicator. The vacuum detection indicator is configured to facilitate the evaluation of the integrity of the vacuum within the vacuum insulation panel. The vacuum detection indicator may comprise a cavity in the core material which allows the barrier material to form a depression when a vacuum is drawn within the panel. Accordingly, as the vacuum is reduced or lost, the depression formed in the barrier material will be similarly reduced or lost. In addition, the vacuum detection indicator may comprise a viewing window configured above the barrier material to permit the evaluator to readily determine whether the vacuum has been reduced or lost. Further, the vacuum detection indicator may comprise a spring-like device configured within the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Insulated Shipping Containers
    Inventor: Eric M. Hagopian
  • Patent number: 5942193
    Abstract: A device for evaluating air removal is subjected to a sterilization process whose effectiveness is dependent on a sufficiently high vacuum being achieved. A closure or lid (20, 70) seals an opening into an interior chamber (12) of a container (10). The closure and container are mechanically interconnected, e.g., fricitonally, such that a preselected pressure differential across the closure is needed to release the closure. The friction or other mechanical interconnection level and a pressure in the interior chamber are selected such that when the exterior of the container is subject to a preselected vacuum, the closure releases. Ease or reliability of reading the indication is improved with a spring (50) for expelling the closure or a frangible member (56, 72) which is severed or irreversibly deformed as the closure releases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Steris Corporation
    Inventor: Kathryn A. Bolsen
  • Patent number: 5852986
    Abstract: A CO.sub.2 cartridge is permanently attached to a cartridge status indicator so that a user need not perform a detailed inspection to determine if the cartridge has been used or not. If the cartridge has been used, the status indicator will so indicate upon casual visual inspection, and if the cartridge has not been used, the causal inspection will also reveal that fact. The gas is released by two different methods. The first requires only that the user pull a cord. Pulling the cord shifts a support member laterally within the inflator, and previously misaligned legs and bores enter into alignment with one another. When aligned, the legs enter into the bores under the influence of a spring positioned in the inflator and the support member is driven into puncturing relation to a membrane. If moisture is encountered, the cord need not be pulled because the moisture collapses a dissolvable element, and the pierce pin is driven into puncturing relation with the membrane under the force of the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Inventor: Glenn H. Mackal
  • Patent number: 5845597
    Abstract: An efficiency indicator for a separation system, such as a water filter, wherein a first volume of fluid is exposed, under a first pressure, to a separation medium and a second volume of fluid is recovered therefrom, under a second, lesser pressure. The indicator comprises a housing including an aperture and a biased piston rod in a tube driven between a first position and a second spaced-apart position by the differential between said first and second pressures when said second pressure represents an undesired loss of medium separating efficiency. The piston rod has a first reflective colored coating at one location on said rod and a second reflective colored coating at a second location. A sphere of optical transparent material is mounted so as to project through the aperture of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Vista Water Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: David L. Karpal
  • Patent number: 5803282
    Abstract: A bottle includes a cap secured on top and having a pipe extended upward and communicating with the interior of the bottle. A pump device is disposed on the cap for vacuuming the bottle. A bellows member is engaged on the pipe and includes a lower end secured to the cap and an enclosed upper end. A cover is engaged on the cap and includes an aperture for allowing the enclosed upper end of the bellows member to move upward beyond the cover. The enclosed upper end of the bellows member may be moved downward for indicating a vacuum status of the bottle when the bottle is vacuumed by the pump device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventors: Pao Ting Chen, Hsin Yu Chen, Cai Lian Liu
  • Patent number: 5785844
    Abstract: An apparatus for use with a water treatment unit that indicates the end of life of the unit. The apparatus comprises a housing with at least one opening for the passage of liquid to a chamber, formed by the interior of the housing and the water treatment unit. The chamber includes a support member mounted to the housing. A float is rotationally mounted on the support member. The support member limits float movement to a predetermined distance upon each rotation of the float, resulting from each cycle of the water treatment unit. Once the float has made a specific number of rotations and has travelled the complete distance of the support member as water fills and drains from the chamber, the float rests in a position where it is visible through an opening in the housing, indicative of the end of life of the water treatment unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Recovery Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Lund, David J. Emmons, Richard D. Hembree
  • Patent number: 5778486
    Abstract: Disclosed is an indicator device for visually in detail denoting the amount of filled dust in a dust container of a vacuum cleaner with time. The indicator device operates based on a vacuum pressure difference created between an air suction port and an outlet of the vacuum cleaner. A first plunger and a second plunger slidablely positioned in a first cylinder primarily decrease the vacuum degree in a dust collecting compartment and continuously display the amount of filled dust in the dust container. For this purpose, the first plunger is colored red and the second plunger is colored green. A third plunger slidablely positioned in a second cylinder secondarily decreases the vacuum degree in a dust collecting compartment. The user of the vacuum cleaner can notice the operating state of the vacuum cleaner or the replacement time of the dust container by observing the first plunger and the second plunger through a transparent window installed at a hood of the vacuum cleaner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Daewoo Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Suk-Gu Kim
  • Patent number: 5775358
    Abstract: Disclosed is an indicator system for use with inflating devices that use a cylinder of compressed gas. The indicator system is comprised of a cylinder adapter which receives and supports a cylinder and, concurrently, is received by an inflating device. The cylinder adapter includes an indication means that signals whether the attached cylinder is full or has been discharged by way of the indication means being responsive to the high pressure release from the cylinder during a discharge. The indication means incorporates the use of the color green to signify that the cylinder is full and the color red to signify that the cylinder has been discharged. The indicator system is designed to have a one-time use after which it is disposed of.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Halkey-Roberts Corporation
    Inventors: Lyman W. Fawcett, Jr., Jacek M. Weinheimer
  • Patent number: 5771834
    Abstract: A double tire inflation balancer and tire pressure indicator including a main body, a tire pressure indicator and an inflation tube. The tire pressure indicator is disposed in the main body and the main body is connected to the tire valve by an inflation hose. A pair of one-way valves formed by the round head rods and the small springs are provided in the main body, during inflation, the air first goes into the tire with less tire pressure. After the pressure of the inner tire is equalized with that of the outer tire, the two tires are then simultaneously inflated until the tire pressure reaches a normal pressure value. A transmission piston of the tire pressure indicator is compressed by the air, whereby a user can observe three indications of red, green and yellow colors of the front end of the transmission piston. The red color indicates insufficient tire pressure, the green color indicates normal tire pressure, while the yellow color indicates excessive tire pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: Jing-Long Hsiao
  • Patent number: 5739755
    Abstract: A sensor for monitoring a cooling liquid circulating in a circuit of a heat exchanger of an automobile, for example, includes a support for mounting the sensor on a pipe of the circuit so that the liquid is in contact with at least a part of the sensor, a corrodible membrane in contact with the liquid, and a visual indicator reacting to the degree of corrosion of the liquid. The visual indicator includes a piston movable under the combined effect of the breaking of the corrodible membrane and of the pressure difference between inside and outside of the pipe, at least one seal mounted on the movable piston, and the visual indicator protruding from the pipe and/or from the support when the membrane is corroded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventor: Emanuel Goldenberg
  • Patent number: 5687672
    Abstract: A pressure indicator for tires comprised of a lower cylindrical housing dimensioned for removable coupling with a valve stem of a tire. A flexible diaphragm is disposed within the lower cylindrical housing. An upper cylindrical housing is coupled with the lower cylindrical housing. A T-shaped indicating pin extends through the upper cylindrical housing to couple with the flexible diaphragm. A tri-level spring is coupled around the T-shaped indicating pin. A magnifying dome couples with the upper cylindrical housing. The magnifying dome has an indicating chart positioned therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Inventor: Earl W. Gabriel
  • Patent number: 5677492
    Abstract: A diaphragm type pressure measuring device including a conical diaphragm having a top and a peripheral bottom edge, a pressure probe raised from the top of the conical diaphragm, a guard connected to the peripheral bottom edge of the conical diaphragm and disposed around the pressure probe and having an upright top flange raised from the periphery of a top rim thereof, and a cover adapted for covering on the upright top flange of the guard, wherein when an air pressure is applied to the conical diaphragm, the pressure probe is forced by the conical diaphragm to to cause a movement subject to the value of the applied air pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Inventor: Tien-Tsai Huang
  • Patent number: 5653191
    Abstract: An air pressure indicator attaches to a manifold and uses air pressure to elide a pressure pin outward. A spring moves the pressure pin inward when pressure decreases in the manifold. A collet and o-ring on the pressure pin prevent the flow of pressurized fluid through the interior of the indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Inventors: Clifford A. Calhoun, Craig Calhoun
  • Patent number: 5616157
    Abstract: A filter indicator system for indicating when air flow through a filter is restricted includes an indicator mounted in a filter assembly downstream of the filter. The indicator includes a housing having a central space, a side wall, an end wall, an end inlet in the end wall, and a side outlet. A pop-up member is located in the central space and includes a signal portion which extends adjacent the end inlet. A moving device is then used for moving the pop-up member between a non-signalling position where the signal member does not extend noticeably through the end inlet and a signalling position where the signal portion extends noticeably through the end inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Assignee: Florida Pneumatic Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Donald R. Mead, Deborah V. Beebe
  • Patent number: 5597091
    Abstract: A discharge monitoring system for a compressed gas cylinder incorporates a seal rupturing pin mounted in a gas passage that is intended to connect to a conventional triggering mechanism for activating the seal rupturing pin connects to the object to be inflated. A chamber divided by a piston into a high pressure side which is directly connected to the gas passage and a lower pressure side on the opposite side of the piston. A flag or indicator associated with the piston is move into a flagging position when a high gas pressure is present in the gas passage and moves the piston to a displaced position. With this system, an initial high pressure formed in the gas passage immediately after the gas cylinder seal is punctured, develops a gas pressure within the chamber sufficient to displace the piston. The piston is fictionally held in its initial position indicating the cylinder is charged or after discharge in its displaced position indicating the cylinder has been discharged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: M.E.T.A. Reasearch Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Mah, Adrian Post
  • Patent number: 5595138
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for detecting operational anomalies in a pressurized fluid circuit having a main pump, a fluid filter and a booster pump connected in series. The apparatus has an indicating detector to provide an indication of a system malfunction and a switching device connected to the indicating detector, as well as to various points in the pressurized fluid circuit, to enable the indicating detector to detect a malfunction in either the booster pump or the filter. The switching device has pressurized fluid inlets connected to a point upstream of the booster pump, a point between the booster pump and the filter inlet and to a point between the filter outlet and the inlet of the main, high pressure pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Assignee: Societe Nationale D'Etude et de Construction de Moteurs D'Aviation S.N.E.C.M.A.
    Inventor: Pierre J. E. Claret
  • Patent number: 5469978
    Abstract: A system for indicating whether a hydraulic--pneumatic cushioning unit mounted on a railway car to cushion impacts contains sufficient hydraulic fluid to cushion impacts includes a signal assembly mounted on the body of the cushioning device, the signal assembly unit including a pressure indicator and a signal unit which is removably mounted on the pressure indicator. A cable connects the signal unit to a radio mounted on the railway car. An actuator in the pressure indicator moves when sufficient hydraulic fluid is lost from the cushioning device to impair the ability of the device to cushion shocks. Movement of the actuator operates a switch or load cell in the assembly to send a signal through the cable to the radio which then broad-casts a signal indicating that the cushioning unit is inoperative.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Assignee: Keystone Railway Equipment Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Bankos, Douglas J. Bingler
  • Patent number: 5452819
    Abstract: A fuel fill cap for use in cooperation with a fuel tank of a fuel utensil to direct pressurized air within the fuel tank, wherein the cap includes a valve member mounted within the cap to permit pressurizing of the fuel tank through the cap. A modification of the invention includes a pressure gauge structure in association with the cap, as well as the pressure gauge and a pressure gauge audible whistle to indicate excess pressurization of the fuel tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Inventor: Michael L. Vance