With Co-acting Valve In Liquid Flow Path Patents (Class 137/218)
  • Patent number: 5228594
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing system utilizes a microprocessor based electronic control and a positive displacement gear pump to accurately meter predetermined batches of liquid pumped from a supply tank. The gear pump is driven by a reversible motor through a gear reducer, and is operative to pump a predetermined fixed volume of liquid for each revolution or fraction of revolution of the pump drive shaft. A passive magnetic sensor is positioned adjacent the toothed periphery of a target wheel, which is mounted on the motor shaft, and generates a signal representative of the amount of rotation of the pump drive shaft. The electronic control is responsive to this signal for calculating the total volume of liquid dispaced by the pump. The electronic control includes a keyboard which enables a user to preprogram the precise amount of liquid to be dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventor: David J. Aslin
  • Patent number: 5217040
    Abstract: A first automatic valve of a safeguard is connected in the flow path of a sanitary fitting. The diaphragm, acting as the valve body of a second valve, interacts with the valve seat and the first valve is arranged on said diaphragm. Under normal operating conditions, the second valve is closed and the first valve is opened. Under conditions allowing backflow counter to the direction of the arrow S, the first valve closes automatically, by which action the diaphragm is deformed counter to the direction of the arrow S due to the suction on the input side, which results in the second valve being inevitably opened. By this construction, water is prevented from flowing back into the feedline and the outlet is connected to the ambient air through the opened second valve and the aeration path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1993
    Assignee: KWC AG
    Inventor: Ferdinand Hochstrasser
  • Patent number: 5217039
    Abstract: An automatic draining back flow prevention apparatus comprises tubular body structure having main passage structure between flow entrance and exit ports; the body structure having first and second side ports communicating with the passage structure; first and second diaphragms carried by the body structure to be exposed to flow in the passage structure; a stopper in the passage structure cooperating with the first diaphragm to pass forward fluid flow while a first diaphragm flexes to block exit flow of fluid through the first side ports, and to block back flow of fluid through the main passage structure when the first diaphragm moves to unblock exit flow of fluid through the first side port; the second diaphragm movable to allow in-flow of air through the second side port when the stopper and first diaphragm block back flow of fluid through the main passage structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1993
    Inventor: Herbert W. Hoeptner, III
  • Patent number: 5213131
    Abstract: A diverter-type mixing valve has a body formed with a chamber having opposite ends, a mixed-water feed passage opening into the chamber between its ends, a faucet outlet port opening into the chamber at one end thereof, a vent port opening into the chamber at the other end thereof, a diverter port also opening into the chamber at the other end thereof, and a restriction in the chamber between the feed passage and the ports at the other end. Mixed water is supplied under pressure to the feed passage. A diverter valve in the chamber directs flow from the feed passage out the faucet port when pressure between the restriction and the other end is greater than pressure between the restriction and one end and directs flow from the feed passage to the diverter port when pressure between the restriction and one end is greater than pressure between the restriction and the other end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1993
    Assignee: Friedrich Grohe Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Werner Gnauert, Frank-Thomas Luig
  • Patent number: 5213268
    Abstract: A faucet assembly has a housing formed with a vent passage extending between inlet and vent ports and a feed passage extending between an outlet port and a location in the vent passage between the inlet and vent ports. An inner valve body is displaceable in the vent passage between an inner end position sitting in an inner valve seat at the inlet port and blocking flow out of the vent passage through the inlet port and an outer end position sitting in an outer seat and blocking flow from the location toward the vent port. Similarly an outer valve body is displaceable in the vent passage between an outer end position sitting in a vent seat at the vent port and blocking flow out of the vent passage through the vent port and an inner end position permitting flow through the vent port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1993
    Assignee: Friedrich Grohe Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Werner Gnauert, Frank-Thomas Luig
  • Patent number: 5163465
    Abstract: An improved vacuum breaker valve that uses a sliding shuttle that is held in a first closed position by a compression spring and in a fluid transmitting position by the fluid pressure from the fluid supply with a fluid diverter that directs fluid into a chamber and through a fluid resistor so that the fluid pressure in the chamber can generate forces to slide the shuttle along a fluid diverter until the fluid can flow through the valve with the valve including a resilient spring to force the sliding shuttle to a open vent condition where the valve provides both a physical barrier to backflow as well as a vent to quickly and effectively vent any fluid in the downstream pipes into the atmosphere to protect the fluid supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Inventor: Lloyd H. King, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5129416
    Abstract: A water hydrant defines an elongated flow passage having a water inlet and an air inlet, and a laterally extending water outlet spout disposed therebetween to define an outlet. An elongated rotatable stem is reciprocated within the flow passage, and terminates in an exterior handle. A water inlet valve is connected to the stem for control of flow from the water inlet into the passage and an air valve is connected to the stem to control inflow of air and preclude outflow of water through the air inlet. A first check valve in the spout precludes backflow of water into the passage, movement of the air valve opening the first check valve during operation of the handle. A second check valve in the spout downstream of the first check valve precludes backflow of water into the spout. A drain orifice, open to the atmosphere, extends through the spout between the check valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1992
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Company
    Inventor: Rand H. Ackroyd
  • Patent number: 5125429
    Abstract: A pressure-type vacuum breaker for use in a fluid flow line has a housing defining a central bore and an inlet, an outlet and a discharge vent. A piston assembly disposed within the central bore is movable within the bore between first and second positions. In the first position of the piston assembly, the inlet is closed, the discharge vent is open and the outlet is in communication with the discharge vent and the atmosphere. In the second position of the piston assembly, the discharge vent is closed, the inlet is open and the outlet is in communication with the inlet, thereby to permit liquid flow between inlet and outlet. The position of the piston assembly is in predetermined response to pressure of liquid at the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Company
    Inventors: Rand H. Ackroyd, Steven P. Hofmann
  • Patent number: 5123437
    Abstract: A safety valve arrangement for a single lever water tap includes, disposed coaxially in series in a removable module 18, a first air ventilating valve 20, a second air ventilating valve 21, and a non-return valve 22 coupled to and controlling the second ventilating valve. The non-return valve is disposed in the mixed water outlet passage of the tap such that when it opens in response to a water demand, it automatically closes the second ventilating valve, and vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Assignee: Armaturenfabrik Wallisellen AG
    Inventors: Werner Egli, Jakob Wettstein
  • Patent number: 5103856
    Abstract: A faucet with a pull-out spray head includes a mixing valve for combining water from hot and cold supply lines. Water from the mixing valve flows through a check valve assembly having a chamber with an inlet, connected to the mixing valve, and an outlet, that is connected to the spray head. Separate check valves are located in the inlet and the outlet to restrict water flow through the check valve assembly to only the direction from the inlet to the outlet. A hose connects the intermediate chamber of the check valve mechanism to a vacuum breaker adapted to mount next to the faucet. The vacuum breaker includes a housing with an internal cavity into which the conduit communicates. An aperture in the vacuum breaker housing provides a passage between the cavity and the ambient environment of the faucet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1992
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: Gary A. Fleischmann
  • Patent number: 5095554
    Abstract: The fitting with the hose shower comprises a fitting housing at which there is arranged a laterally actuatable control cartridge. Downstream of the control cartridge, viewed with respect to the direction of water flow, there is provided a safety device arranged above the control cartridge. Under normal operating conditions, water flows from the control cartridge via the safety device to an outlet. Under conditions rendering possible a backflow, a backflow preventer of the safety device cuts off the flow path of water and a pipe aerator connects the outflow line or conduit via an aeration path with the environment. As a result, there is precluded a backflow of water into the supply or feed line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Assignee: KWC AG
    Inventor: Roland Gloor
  • Patent number: 5094261
    Abstract: Non-return valve, in which, between the non-return valve assembly and the end of the valve body, which can be connected to a tap, emptying ports are provided and a shut-off diaphragm is supported, which, when the tap is closed, frees the run between the inside of the tap and the emptying ports and, when the tap is open, separates the inside of the tap from the emptying ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1992
    Assignee: Sirio S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marco Giacomini
  • Patent number: 5082017
    Abstract: A ball cock for a flush tank having a valve chamber connected with a discharge chamber. A float operated piston valve is mounted in the valve chamber to control water flow to the discharge chamber. A hush tube connected to the discharge chamber feeds the water to the bottom of the flush tank. A combined volume control and anti-siphon valve is mounted in the discharge chamber between the inlet and hush tube to regulate the rate of flow and to act as a vacuum break under conditions of negative pressure in the water supply line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1992
    Assignee: Wolverine Brass, Inc.
    Inventors: Gordon L. Spurgeon, Charles M. McGhee, Frank C. Evans
  • Patent number: 5079781
    Abstract: A backflow preventer used in combination with a plumbing fixture has a pressurizable supply line, an output hose that can be equipped with a sprayer or shower, and a drain. It further has a valve casing having an inlet valve seat forming an inlet port connected to the supply line, a vent valve seat forming a vent port opening to the atmosphere, and an outlet port opening laterally between the seats and connected to the supply hose. A valve body is movable in the casing between a normal-flow position on the vent seat blocking the vent and permitting flow between the inlet and outlet ports and a backflow-preventing position on the inlet seat blocking the inlet port and permitting flow between the outlet and vent ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1992
    Assignee: Friedrich Grohe Armaturenfabrik GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Werner Gnauert, Hans-Jurgen Jensen
  • Patent number: 5069245
    Abstract: A mixing valve is provided for mixing together two liquids in varying proportions and has the capability of being joined in series to other mixing valves, each of which, other than the first of the series, receives water from its adjacent valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Assignee: Tolco Corporation
    Inventor: Terry C. Potter
  • Patent number: 5063619
    Abstract: A vacuum breaker assembly for a bidet including a vacuum breaker body defining a fluid passageway therethrough and a vacuum breaker opening communicating with the fluid passageway. A piston check valve is movably received within the fluid passageway and moves between positions wherein the vacuum breaker opening is open and closed. A duckbill check valve is fixedly recived within the fluid passageway of the vacuum breaker body upstream of the piston check valve, thereby providing additional protection against backflow of contaminated water through the device. Flexible conduits are connected to the vacuum breaker body inlet and outlet and communicate with a suitable potable water source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1991
    Assignee: U.S. Tap, Inc.
    Inventors: Gilbert W. Ross, Scott C. Baker, Svend Demant
  • Patent number: 5060687
    Abstract: An omnidirectional backflow preventer and vacuum breaker for use with a plumbing fixture in which the discharge may be moved to a position within a body of water includes a body having an inlet and an outlet, a chamber connecting the inlet and outlet and an air vent opening into the chamber. There is a diaphragm positioned within the chamber which normally closes communication between the inlet and outlet. The diaphram prevents water seepage from the outlet from reaching the air vent and has an integral one-way check valve positioned at the inlet which permits air from the vent to pass to the inlet to remove a vacuum condition therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Assignee: Moen Incorporates
    Inventor: David E. Gayton
  • Patent number: 5056549
    Abstract: A valve designed for the prevention of leakage between two or more ports when the valve is in its off position and where leakage occurs at a port seal as shown and described. In this design, each port is sealed when the valve is in the off position, and an open area vented to atmosphere is provided between each of the port seals, whereby if a seal should leak, the fluid will pass to the atmosphere by way of a vent, and will not come in contact with any other sealed port in the valve. The vented chamber separates each port seal from other port seals in the valve. The vented chamber is exterior to the valve and is not a part of the inside of the valve member such as a passage therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Assignee: Socla
    Inventors: Christian Bouilloux, Pierre Marmol, Jean Richard
  • Patent number: 5038814
    Abstract: A back flow preventer and vacuum breaker for use with a plumbing fixture in which the discharge may be moved to a position within a body of water includes a body having an inlet and an outlet, a chamber connecting the inlet and outlet and an air vent opening into the chamber. There is a first diaphragm positioned within the chamber which controls air flow through the vent. There is a second diaphragm positioned in the chamber which controls flow from the inlet into the chamber and includes an integral check valve extending into the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Moen Incorporated
    Inventors: David E. Gayton, Michael A. Brattoli
  • Patent number: 5029603
    Abstract: A water hydrant defines an elongated flow passage having a water inlet and an air inlet, and a laterally extending water outlet spout disposed therebetween to define an outlet. An elongated rotatable stem is reciprocated within the flow passage, and terminates in an exterior handle. A water inlet valve is connected to the stem for control of flow from the water inlet into the passage and an air valve is connected to the stem to control inflow of air and preclude outflow of water through the air inlet. A first check valve in the spout precludes backflow of water into the passage, movement of the air valve opening the first check valve during operation of the handle. A second check valve in the spout downsteam of the first check valve precludes backflow of water into the spout. A drain orifice, open to the atmosphere, extends through the spout between the check valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1991
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Company
    Inventor: Rand H. Ackroyd
  • Patent number: 5022429
    Abstract: A valve assembly comprising three main body parts removably secured together to permit ready assembly and disassembly; one part (11) incorporating a diverter valve in the form of a ceramic cartridge made of a plurality of discs (20, 21, 22); a further part having a vacuum breaker or back-flow preventer (42) comprising a freely movable check valve (45) located in an inlet flow path, for travel between upper and lower valve seats in response to changes in atmospheric pressure and flow direction; and when desired a pop-up drain or waste control rod (15) having no integral guide means associated therewith and operating smoothly and reliably while being inexpensive and simple to manufacture. The assembly may be adapted to receive a decorative escutcheon which permits its use in a wide variety of applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1991
    Assignee: Rubinet Brass Canada Limited
    Inventors: Pietro Rollini, Domenic Luisi
  • Patent number: 5012833
    Abstract: Process for replacing a cartridge in a housing of a freeze proof hydrant. A plunger within the cartridge is urged against a roller pin lodged in the cartridge. A first end of the cartridge is deformed away from a ridge in the housing. The cartridge is slid out of the housing and the first end of the replacement cartridge is deformed. The replacement cartridge is slid into place within the housing. The first end of the replacement cartridge expanded to capture the ridge in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Assignee: Amtrol Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene C. Hunley, Jr., Terry H. Jozwiak
  • Patent number: 5009247
    Abstract: A pipe interrupter, which is particularly suitable for installation in a sanitary fitting, comprises in a housing a chamber, into which a water inlet pipe, a water outlet pipe and a ventilating passage open. A resilient closing flap comprises an attachment section as well as a closing section connected thereto in the manner of a hinge. Normally, as long as reduced pressure does not prevail in the inlet pipe, the closing section covers the opening aperture of the ventilation passage into the chamber, so that on the one hand no atmospheric air may enter and on the other hand no water may emerge. However, if a reduced pressure occurs in the pipe system, which is connected to the inlet pipe, then the closing section of the closing flap tilts by a certain angle, until it closes off the opening point of the inlet pipe into the chamber and on the other hand opens the ventilation passage to the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1991
    Assignee: Hansa Metallwerke AG
    Inventor: Hans Oberdorfer
  • Patent number: 4991655
    Abstract: An alarm valve and a backflow preventer are provided by a check valve and an alarm valve with a passageway provided between the check valve and the alarm valve preferably having a relief valve which selectively drains the passageway in response to the pressure in the main conduit upstream of the check valve. An alarm is sounded when the alarm valve is open. An impeller flow sensor may be provided in the backflow prevention device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1991
    Assignee: Back-Flo Alarm Valve Co., Inc.
    Inventor: George J. McHugh
  • Patent number: 4984306
    Abstract: The invention relates to an automatic chemical injection system for injecting metered amounts of chemical into flush water as the flush water enters a toilet. The injector assembly is easily mounted into the flush water supply line. The assembly has an injector housing which has a truncated cone-shaped bore therein through which the flush water passes. The truncated cone-shaped bore has a smaller diameter opening which increases to a larger diameter opening in the direction of water flow. A smaller bore intersects the cone-shape bore adjacent the smaller diameter opening so that a venturi effect occurs at the opening of the smaller bore. The smaller bore is interconnected to a chemical reservoir so that chemical is pulled into the flush water as the flush water passes the smaller bore. A check valve is located in the smaller bore to permit chemical to be metered into the flush water but not permit flush water to back up into the chemical reservoir and dilute the chemical reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1991
    Inventor: Carl L. Sumerix
  • Patent number: 4977920
    Abstract: A pipe interrupter, which is particularly suitable for installation in a sanitary fitting, comprises in a housing a chamber, into which a water-supply passage, a water-discharge passage and a ventilation path open. Located in the chamber is a rolling membrane, which is fixed at the peripheral region. Normally, thus as long as there is no reduced pressure in the supply passage, the rolling membrane bears in the central region against the opening aperture of the ventilation path in the chamber, so that on the one hand no atmospheric air may enter and on the other hand no water may escape. However, if reduced pressure occurs in the pipe system, which is connected to the supply passage, then the rolling membrane overturns so that now on the opposite side of the central region it closes the opening point of the supply passage into the chamber. On the other side, a ventilation path to the chamber is exposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Assignee: Hansa Metallwerke AG
    Inventor: Hans Oberdorfer
  • Patent number: 4976279
    Abstract: The present invention comprises an automatic self-draining backflow prevention valve having an internal cylindrical resilient sleeve that expands or contracts in response to water pressure to coact with a two way valve that provides for automatic self-draining of both the water faucet and the backflow prevention valve when the water faucet is shut off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1990
    Inventors: Lloyd H. King, Sr., Joseph A. King
  • Patent number: 4971097
    Abstract: Freeze-proof hydrants having a housing, the first end thereof having a fitting for flow communication with a pressurized liquid source. There is a passageway in the housing for liquid flow, a back flow preventer in the passageway and a drain in the housing. A removable cartridge is located in the passageway between the back flow preventer and the first end of the housing. The cartridge has a casing having a passageway therein, a drain therein with a drain channel and at least one hole in the drain channel which extends through the casing, arrangement for retaining the removable cartridge in the passageway, and a plunger in the passageway which can be moved from an open or liquid flowing position to a closed or liquid draining position, and vice versa. The plunger has a plunger head which blocks the passageway in the closed position and which allows liquid flow in the passageway in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 20, 1990
    Assignee: Amtrol Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene C. Hunley, Jr., Terry H. Jozwiak
  • Patent number: 4971091
    Abstract: A dispenser for irrigation chemicals includes an antisiphon or vacuum breaker valve which includes redundant valve members disposed at differing levels to on the one hand ensure communication of ambient pressure to the valve outlet, and on the other hand ensuring that no subambient pressure at the valve inlet is communicated to the outlet of the valve. The differing levels of the two redundant valves ensures also that backflow water from the outlet is vented to ambient without reaching a level sufficient to allow flow into the inlet flow path of the valve. The dispenser includes means to sealingly receive a chambered cartridge of irrigation chemical having a frangible diaphragm capturing the chemical therewithin, and means for penetrating the diaphragm in response to a low of irrigating water to dispense the chemical material along with the irrigating water flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 20, 1990
    Inventor: I-Chung Ho
  • Patent number: 4969483
    Abstract: A hydraulic faucet intended to house a cartridge containing flux control members shaped as plane plates of hard material, and comprising a valve body and a removable cover, wherein some inlet passages for ambient air are provided for in register with the faucet cover, and a one-way valve with elastic lip is housed within the cover, between an outer region of the faucet, communicating through the inlet passages with the outside ambient, and an inner region of the faucet, communicating with the delivery outlet of the faucet. This one way valve with elastic lip is inserted in such sense that it remains sealingly closed when the pressure in the inner region of the faucet is not lower than the ambient air pressure which is present in the outer region of the faucet, and it automatically opens when the pressure in the inner region of the faucet decreases, even of a slight amount, under the ambient air pressure, so that no siphon back flow may arise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 13, 1990
    Assignee: Gevipi A.G.
    Inventor: Alfons Knapp
  • Patent number: 4953585
    Abstract: A transfer-diverter valve assembly is provided including vacuum breaker and back-flow prevention structure. The valve is formed as a single unit for mounting on the deck or flange of a tub, bath or similar fixture and is designed for ready installation as well as ready access to the unit for maintenance or replacement. The valve assembly includes a manually actuated diverter valve for transferring liquid flow from an inlet to one or another of multiple outlets, with a back-flow preventer/vacuum breaker valve located in an inlet flow path and actuatable by changes in fluid flow pressure and direction or atmospheric pressure. In addition, a back-flow preventer valve is located in a first outlet flow path and normally biased to close the inlet flow path, but opens in response to flow from the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1990
    Assignee: Rubinet Brass Canada Limited
    Inventors: Pietro Rollini, Domenic Luisi
  • Patent number: 4953584
    Abstract: A fluid valve structure which combines anti-siphon and anti-backflow features in a single element. The valve utilizes an insert which separates the valve body into two distinct and non-communicating chambers, permits the flow of air through one of the chambers and fluid through the other and fixes a flexible flapper-type diaphragm over the entry passages into the chambers. Due to the flexibility of the diaphragm and the independence of the chambers, that portion of the diaphragm in each chamber operates independently of the other in response to varying conditions of pressure and flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1990
    Assignee: Bristol Corporation
    Inventor: Lajos Vegso
  • Patent number: 4951702
    Abstract: A non-rise bidet valve comprising a housing having a fluid inlet and first and second discharge openings; a fluid diverting chamber having a fluid admitting opening and first and second outtake ports; a fluid passage connecting the fluid inlet in open fluid communication with the fluid admitting opening of the diverting chamber; a first fluid outlet passage connecting the first outtake port with the first discharge opening; a second fluid outlet passage connecting the second outtake port with a second discharge passage; and a diverter member mounted in the diverting chamber for movement between first and second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 28, 1990
    Assignee: Canceramic Limited
    Inventor: John J. Brotcke
  • Patent number: 4945940
    Abstract: A testable backflow prevention assembly provided with a means for preventing unauthorized access to water within the assembly throughout the differential pressure gradient of the assembly; comprising: a means for locking the valves of the test cocks, a means for lockably securing the test cocks to the backflow prevention assembly body, and a means for preventing cessation of water pressure within the backflow prevention assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 7, 1990
    Inventor: Robert B. Stevens
  • Patent number: 4909270
    Abstract: An anti-siphon frost free faucet having a neck portion that includes an anti-siphon back flow preventer interposed between the neck and a hose, a water drain means positioning at the lowest point in said faucet to facilitate complete water drainage of said faucet when a supply of water to said faucet is turned off and an air vent means on said faucet operable when said supply of water is turned off to allow air into said faucet to assure optimum pressure operate said drain means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1990
    Assignee: Arrowhead Brass Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Louis F. Enterante, Sr., Louis F. Enterante, Jr., Frank L. Enterante
  • Patent number: 4901890
    Abstract: An automatic additive dispenser and system includes a container adapted to be releasably attached to a housing and having a rupturable seal along with means for rupturing the seal and enabling additive to enter a flow of water through the housing, in response to initial water flow through the housing. Additives contained in the bottle are prevented from entering the system before the seal is ruptured, thus enabling predisposition of the bottle in the system for later dispersement of additive without premature leakage of the additives into the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1990
    Inventor: Michael B. Mivelaz
  • Patent number: 4895180
    Abstract: An anti-backflow valve to prevent back-flow of water within a water supply line comprises a cross-shaped housing arranged symmetrically with respect to a vertical center axis. A diaphragm is clamped between the housing and a cover and acts via a valve stem upon a relief valve. Parallel to the valve stem and located on each side of it are two check valves arranged within bores of the housing. Both check valves as well as the relief valve are arranged in a plane containing an inlet and outlet of the housing to produce a compact and symmetrical configuration which is easily inserted into a water supply line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1990
    Assignee: Honeywell GmbH
    Inventor: Rudolf Vollmer
  • Patent number: 4895654
    Abstract: A purified water dispensing and reject water control device is provided for operative association with a pressurized feed water supplied reverse osmosis cartridge that has purified water and reject water outlets and a tank that is subdivided by a movable barrier into first and second compartments of variable volume that receive purified and reject water and may have same discharged therefrom. The control device includes a single elongate tube that actuates first and second valve members that tend to remain in first positions. Purified water from the purified water outlet flows to the first compartment and reject water from reject water outlet flows through a first flow restrictor and then through a second flow restrictor defined by the tube to the drain when the valve members are in first positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1990
    Inventor: Bruce D. Burrows
  • Patent number: 4893644
    Abstract: A non-return valve for supply cocks, comprising an integral cup-shaped valve body (8) accommodating a substantially rigid washer (14) forming a seal with respect to the supply cock (2) and having flow apertures (16), as well as a flexible membrane (15) located underneath and self-positioning, during closure, against the said substantially rigid washer (14) so as to close the said flow apertures (16) of the same (14) and move away from the said flow apertures (16) under the pressure of the water supplied. The substantially rigid washer (14) and the flexible membrane (15) may advantageously be joined together so as to form a composite washer (28). The valve (1) proposed has a small number of components and can be very easily assembled. The substantially rigid washer (14), or the composite washer (28), has an external thread (14a)so that the said washer (14; 28) can be screwed into the thread (8b) of the cup-shaped portion (8a) of the valve body (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1990
    Assignee: Sirio S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marco Giacomini
  • Patent number: 4878515
    Abstract: A water access preventer for testable water backflow prevention assemblies wherein a means is provided to quickly, inconspicuously, and inexpensively prevent unauthorized access to potable water travelling within these assemblies throughout the differential pressure gradient of these assemblies, comprising, in part: a means for locking the valves which provide access to the potable water, and a means for preventing the shut-off of linepressure throughout the differential pressure gradient of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1989
    Inventor: Robert B. Stevens
  • Patent number: 4846403
    Abstract: An automatic additive dispenser and system includes a container adapted to be releasably attached to a housing and having a rupturable seal along with means for rupturing the seal and enabling additive to enter a flow of water through the housing, in response to initial water flow through the housing. Additives contained in the bottle are prevented from entering the system before the seal is ruptured, thus enabling pre-disposition of the bottle in the system for later dispersement of additive without premature leakage of the additives into the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1989
    Inventor: Michael B. Mivelaz
  • Patent number: 4821762
    Abstract: The present invention includes an elongated housing having a bore extending therethrough with an inlet end at one end and an outlet nozzle at the other end. A removable cartridge is inserted within the bore and includes the valve assembly and the handle and operating rod for moving the valve assembly. The entire working valve assembly and operating rod can be removed as a unit for replacement of o-rings or other parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1989
    Assignee: Woodford Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Warren R. Breneman
  • Patent number: 4821763
    Abstract: A coupling device for a liquid conduit system has a body defining a liquid flow passage and having an orifice defined by a generally cylindrical surface about an axis, and, disposed within the orifice, an insert. The cylindrical surface of the orifice defines a shoulder surface disposed generally parallel to the orifice axis. The insert has a threaded inner surface, and is sized for rotation relative to the orifice surface in a first direction about the orifice axis. The insert also defines an engagement surface that engages upon the orifice shoulder surface to restrict rotation of the insert relative to the orifice surface in the second, opposite direction. The insert is a split ring, and the engagement surface is defined by a radially aligned surface of the split ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1989
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Company
    Inventors: Rand H. Ackroyd, Mark T. Corcoran
  • Patent number: 4811754
    Abstract: A fluid-flow control valve comprises a valve housing bounding a chamber and defining an inlet port for entry of fluid into the chamber and a control port for egress of fluid from the chamber. The control port is of reduced cross-sectional area relative to the chamber. The valve also comprises a valve closure member disposed in the chamber. The valve closure member is less dense than the fluid that the valve is to be used to control, so that when the chamber contains that fluid and the control port is above the closure member, the valve closure member is urged toward the control port so as to obstruct the control port. The closure member can be displaced away from the control port so as to allow fluid to flow through the control port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1989
    Assignee: Oy Wartsila Ab
    Inventor: Raymond L. Wilhelm
  • Patent number: 4805661
    Abstract: A faucet valve 10 includes a ball valve 28 seated in a valve chamber 18. The ball valve 28 has a plurality of apertures 46 circumferentially spaced about the control stem 32 which extends through an opening 60 in the cap assembly 48 of the valve housing 16. A check valve 66 is formed within the hollow interior 62 of the ball valve and includes a disc section 70 that mounts a flap valve 78. A shield formed by a cylindrical wall 80 downwardly depending from the disc section 70 and a snap ring 84 fitted on the lower end of the cylindrical wall protects the flap valve from undue water turbulence. Negative pressure in the supply inlet opens the flap valve 78 to draw air through passageway 64 formed by the apertures 46 and auxiliary opening 60 and hollow interior 62 of the ball valve seated in the valve chamber 18.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1989
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Alfons Knapp, Robert D. Roland, Joe D. Hutto
  • Patent number: 4726390
    Abstract: Disclosed is a vacuum breaker and backflow prevention device for a faucet comprising a body member having a tubular outlet portion integrally joined by a web to a tubular inlet portion of larger diameter than the outlet portion, the web having a plurality of vent holes therethrough and peripherally supporting a flexible, resilient diaphragm and overlying plate member. The plate member has an outer region provided with a plurality of through holes and a central depending shank portion extending through a central hole in the diaphragm. The tubular inlet portion has internal screw threads for attachment to a faucet outlet member whereby the plate and diaphragm are retained in the tubular inlet portion by the outlet member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1988
    Assignee: Waltec, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian T. Franklin
  • Patent number: 4718449
    Abstract: A valve assembly for placement within a water receptacle such as a trough without alteration of the receptacle. A weighted body of the valve assembly retains the assembly against displacement. A float is tethered to a valve actuating arm in a yieldable manner to avoid damage upon accidental float contact by cattle. The weighted body has a removable closure to permit the adding of heavy material immediately prior to valve use. A tubular base of the valve assembly is adapted at one end to receive a hose fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1988
    Inventor: George S. Ralph
  • Patent number: 4712575
    Abstract: A self-draining hose connection vacuum breaker and backflow preventer having a flexible annular diaphragm and a coacting seat disc movable relative thereto which, together, function to prevent backflow through the device and with the annular diaphragm coacting with atmospheric vents to provide a vacuum break and fluid drain. A movable piston has two different positions, dependent upon whether or not a hose is connected to the device, with the piston mounting the seat disc for movement therewith and relative thereto whereby the seat disc and annular diaphragm coact to prevent backflow when a hose is attached to the device, but the seat disc is positioned to permit flow through a central opening of the annular diaphragm when a hose is removed from the device to prevent trapped water in a source valve, such as a faucet or the like, which could result in either pipe and/or valve rupture resulting from freezing or retention of stagnant water which could result in bacterial growth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1987
    Assignee: A. W. Cash Valve Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: John E. Lair, Lawrence F. Luckenbill, Richard J. Holliday
  • Patent number: 4709721
    Abstract: An improved ballcock assembly for a toilet water reservoir which provides quiet reservoir refill operation without requiring a conventional water discharge hush tube. Quiet refill operation is provided by discharging refill water through a plurality of openings which create individual streams of water which flow along the side surfaces of a standpipe having longitudinally extending external ridges or walls. The walls maintain the separation of the individual water streams which cascade down the standpipe surface. The outside surface of the standpipe is preferably tapered outwardly from top to bottom so that the water flows along a tapered surface which reinforces the cascading flow regime. The reduced flow for each stream and the cascading flow action combine to provide quiet refill operation. Since the ballcock assembly refill openings are above reservoir tank water level, water normally cannot be sucked through them and into the water supply system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1987
    Assignee: Johnson Service Company
    Inventor: Larry D. Gish
  • Patent number: 4696322
    Abstract: A faucet valve 10 includes a ball valve 28 seated in a valve chamber 18. The ball valve 28 has a plurality of apertures 46 circumferentially spaced about the control stem 32 which extends through an opening 60 in the cap assembly 48 of the valve housing 16. A check valve 66 is formed within the hollow interior 62 of the ball valve and includes a disc section 70 that mounts a flap valve 78. A shield formed by a cylindrical wall 80 downwardly depending from the disc section 70 and a snap ring 84 fitted on the lower end of the cylindrical wall protects the flap valve from undue water turbulence. Negative pressure in the supply inlet opens the flap valve 78 to draw air through passageway 64 formed by the apertures 46 and auxiliary opening 60 and hollow interior 62 of the ball valve seated in the valve chamber 18.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1987
    Assignee: Masco Corporation
    Inventors: Alfons Knapp, Robert D. Roland, Joe D. Hutto