With Pressure-responsive Pressure-control Means Patents (Class 137/224)
  • Patent number: 9637283
    Abstract: Apparatus for allowing a quick connection and disconnection of pump components to a liquid color pump. Apparatus includes a male member received with a female member. The female member is formed from three plates layered on top of each other. Preferably, a quarter turn rotation of the male member in relation to the female member results in the securing of the pump component to the liquid color pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Inventor: Stephen B. Maguire
  • Patent number: 9630461
    Abstract: A tire assembly includes a reservoir, a tire, and a pressure module. The pressure module includes a first valve, a second valve, and a control unit. The first valve selectively directs air from the reservoir to the interior cavity. The second valve directs air from the interior cavity of the tire to the atmosphere. The control unit is configured to selectively send a first control signal to the first valve such that the first valve cycles from a first position, at which air is prevented from flowing from the reservoir to the interior cavity, to a second position, at which air is allowed to flow from the reservoir to the interior cavity of the tire. The control unit is configured to selectively send another first control signal to the first valve such that the first valve cycles from the second position to the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Liviu Serbu, Joseph K. Moore
  • Patent number: 9618125
    Abstract: A connector (1) for transferring a fluid or for applying a pneumatic pressure from an inlet conduit (2) to an outlet conduit (3) that may rotate with respect to the inlet conduit (2), in which the connector (1) comprises a rotating shaft (17) defining the outlet conduit (3) therein, which has an inlet opening (70), said rotating shaft (17) defining a rotational axis (S-S) and comprising a sealing disc (19) extending radially from said rotating shaft; an insertion chamber (5) to which said inlet conduit (2) is sealingly securable, said chamber leading towards said inlet opening (70) of the outlet conduit (3); at least one first cylinder-piston unit (100) comprising a cylinder (9) and a piston (21) slidable in said cylinder (9), said piston (21) having a sealing surface (22) facing the sealing disc (19), and said cylinder (9) being fluidically connected or connectable to said insertion chamber (5); said piston (21) being configured to be selectively actuated between a sealing position in which the sealing surfa
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: ANKOL EOOD
    Inventor: Andrey Atanasov Kolakov
  • Patent number: 9579937
    Abstract: A tire management system for a truck or trailer having an axle having a first tire mounted thereto, the system having an air pressure supply connected to the tire so as to allow sealed communication of pressurized air between the air pressure supply and the first tire, and a first pilot-operated check valve in sealed fluid communication with the air pressure supply and with the first tire, the first pilot-operated check valve being configured to allow air to flow only from the air pressure supply to the first tire when a pilot of the first pilot check valve is not activated, and to allow air to flow between the first tire and the air pressure supply when the pilot of the first pilot-operated check valve is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: Equalaire Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Kevin Hennig
  • Patent number: 9579935
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes a tire management system for a vehicle. The tire management system includes a first load sensor that determines a first load placed on a first tire of the vehicle, a first pressure sensor that determines a first fluid pressure within the first tire, a control unit communicatively coupled to the first load sensor and to the first pressure sensor. The control unit generates a first fluid pressure adjustment instruction based at least in part on the first load determined by the first load sensor and the first fluid pressure determined by the first pressure sensor. Additionally, the tire management system includes a first valve fluidly coupled to the first tire and communicatively coupled to the control unit, in which the first valve adjusts the first fluid pressure within the first tire based at least in part on the first fluid pressure adjustment instruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventor: Mauricio Blanco Infantini
  • Patent number: 9551999
    Abstract: A structure of gas regulator comprises a space for setting an intake switchover valve formed at an outer end of a high-pressure portion and interconnected with the inside of the high-pressure portion. A pushing block is outside a diaphragm, and an elastic element is set between the pushing block and a flange at the periphery of an inner end of the pushing block. A support base outside the pushing block is abutted the elastic element and comprises an extending section extended from an inner end thereof and corresponding to the outer periphery of the elastic element and a through-hole corresponding to the pushing block. A display diaphragm with a center slot is outside the support base. A cover covered the space has a transparent side display window at the periphery thereof and a transparent outer display window at an outer end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Yung Shen Gas Appliance Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Cheng-Sheng Hsiao
  • Patent number: 9539865
    Abstract: A tire inflation system having a sleeve assembly. The sleeve assembly may be disposed proximate a spindle and may receive pressurized gas. A wheel end seal assembly may be disposed between the sleeve assembly and a hub to help route the pressurized gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Nicholas S. Lakin, Timothy J. Boothby, Kevin Tracy, James G. Polubinski, Aaron Sinka, Dale Kwasniewski
  • Patent number: 9517663
    Abstract: A tire inflation system having a rotary coupling. The rotary coupling may have a mounting member and a rotating member. The rotating member may be rotatably coupled to the mounting member and may have a rotating member passage that may fluidly connect a first conduit to a second conduit that may be fluidly connected to the tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Eric Lewandowski, Aaron Sinka
  • Patent number: 9517322
    Abstract: A flowmeter comprises a lower valve body (1), a throttle assembly, a flow tube assembly, an upper valve body (2), and a pressure fluctuation suppression assembly. An air inlet, an air outlet and an air flow channel connecting the air inlet and the air outlet are arranged in the lower valve body (1); a throttle assembly for adjusting the degree of opening of the air flow channel in the lower valve body (1) is further disposed on the lower valve body (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: BEIJING AEONMED CO., LTD
    Inventor: Dianhui Zheng
  • Patent number: 9452644
    Abstract: A tire inflation system having a spindle that is configured to support a wheel bearing. A passage for routing pressurized gas may be provided with the spindle or with a sleeve that may be disposed on the spindle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Christopher Keeney, James Keane, Michael Andrew Power, Dale Kwasniewski
  • Patent number: 9409449
    Abstract: A spindle assembly for a tire inflation system having a spindle defining an axial direction and a fluid conduit. A rotatable part is rotatably mounted on the spindle and has a fluid passage. The fluid passage is configured to be in fluid communication with a pneumatic tire. A dynamic annular seal chamber is also provided. The annular seal chamber is disposed radially between the spindle and the rotatable part. The fluid conduit and the fluid passage are in fluid communication with each other through the annular seal chamber. The annular seal chamber is disposed axially between a first volume and a second volume. The first volume and the second volume are in fluid communication with each other through at least one fluid channel for leading fluid leaked out of the annular seal chamber and leaked into the first volume and/or into the second volume through the fluid channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: Dana Italia S.P.A.
    Inventors: Alberto Cis, Christian Lorenzini, Michele Sandri, Virginia Badiola Urquiola
  • Publication number: 20150075642
    Abstract: The device incorporates a hollow body (16), including an intake aperture (20) controlled by a system for injecting a gaseous fluid under pressure, an inflation aperture (24) in communication with the tire at a pressure (P0), and an exhaust aperture (21) for venting the said fluid externally; according to the invention, it incorporates a piston (25) fitted so as to slide within at least one chamber (17) of the body (16) under the effect of the injection of the fluid via the intake aperture (20); the said piston (25) interoperates with a mobile assembly (35, 36, 39) in combination with an exhaust flap valve (27) such that: under the effect of the injection of the gaseous fluid at a pressure (P1>P0), the piston (25) and the mobile assembly (35, 36, 39) are moved linearly against a first flexible component (38) in relation to the exhaust flap valve (27), which remains fixed, as far as a travel limitation position of the said piston (25) and the said assembly (35, 36, 39), corresponding to the opening of the
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: Stéphane Fazekas
  • Publication number: 20150020895
    Abstract: A relief valve is configured to fit between the outlet of a hand pump and the inlet of an inflatable device to prevent the inflatable device from being inflated beyond a desired pressure. The relief valve can also be used to bleed excess air out of an inflatable device that is above its desired pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: K-Pump Inc.
    Inventor: James D. Kutella
  • Publication number: 20140366957
    Abstract: An inflating module adapted to an inflatable object includes a pressure controlling assembly configured to monitor air pressure in the inflatable object after the inflatable body has been inflated and a supplemental air pressure providing device. The pressure controlling assembly is configured to automatically activate the supplemental air pressure providing device when the air pressure inside the inflatable object decreases below a predetermined threshold after inflation, and to control the supplemental air pressure providing device to provide supplemental air pressure to the inflatable object so as to maintain the air pressure of the inflatable object within a predetermined range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventors: CHENG-CHUNG WANG, CHIEN-HUA WANG
  • Publication number: 20140354028
    Abstract: An inflatable seat features an inflatable body having a cylindrical shape when inflated so as to visually approximate the shape of a drink can, and a seat topper situated atop the inflatable body. The seat topper features a padding layer disposed atop a base, which is of greater hardness and rigidity than the padding layer and has a flat undersurface in order to flatten out an underlying area of the top end of the inflatable to eliminate bulging of the top end of the inflatable and thereby better approximate the shape of a drink can. A pressure relief valve on the inflatable body prevents blowout of same under extreme pressure conditions when sat upon in high temperature environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventor: Edward Francis Carolan
  • Patent number: 8893741
    Abstract: A pressure relief valve comprising a tubular main body with a pressure relief perforation, a pressure adjustor with an anti-leakage rubber and an anti-reverse member; wherein the main body further comprises air inlet and outlet, a channel between the inlet and outlet and with a through-hole penetrating the main body. The pressure adjustor is mounted on the through-hole and the anti-reverse member is mounted on the outlet. As the inlet is connected to an air pump and the outlet is connected to a filling-article, a pressure value is preset with the pressure adjustor such that when the filling-article reaches the preset pressure value, the anti-reverse member engages the channel to move the anti-leakage rubber of the pressure adjustor upward and the air is released from the pressure release perforation in order to stably maintain the filling-article at an air-filling state within the preset pressure value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventors: Chen-Yuan Weng, Chin-Sheng Ho
  • Patent number: 8863771
    Abstract: An inflating module adapted to an inflatable object includes an air pump assembly selectively operable to deflate and inflate the inflatable object and a supplemental air pressure providing device automatically activated to provide supplemental air pressure to the inflatable object when the air pressure of the inflatable object is down and below a predetermined level so as to maintain air pressure of the inflatable object in a predetermined range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Team Worldwide Corporation
    Inventors: Cheng-Chung Wang, Chien-Hua Wang
  • Patent number: 8844596
    Abstract: The present invention is a valve for use in a central tire inflation system including a casing securable to the rim of a vehicle in communication with the tire that houses a main body connectable to a pressurized fluid supply of the central tire inflation system, and a valve member moveable within the main body to control the flow of air through the valve. The valve can be mounted flush on the exterior surface of the rim or in a recessed position within the rim, and can be connected to a manifold that is able to control the flow of pressurized fluid from the central tire inflation system to each valve and tire connected to the valve. The operation of the manifold and pressurized fluid supply can be controlled utilizing a controller operably connected to the manifold and fluid supply, and to sensing devices that supply information regarding the operational conditions of the vehicle to the controller to assist in adjusting the inflation of the tires as necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Global Engineering Marketing LLC
    Inventors: Martin A. Medley, Douglas P. Miller, Donald E. Blackman, Thomas Varghese
  • Publication number: 20140202557
    Abstract: A preferred embodiment of a version of the invention is based on a manual and automatic, mechanically alternating air pressure relief apparatus and device for placement in wheel chairs and other seating apparatuses. In a preferred embodiment of a version of the invention, a manual and automatic, mechanically alternating air pressure relief apparatus and device comprises an impervious top layer and gel-like bottom layer with air cells therein. In preferred embodiment, the device is used for immobile patients to alleviate pressure points from prolonged sitting and immobility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Marian Paulette Bullin
  • Publication number: 20140202586
    Abstract: A pneumatic system includes a first line configured to be coupled to a container, and to convey a flow of gas from a source to the container, a second line in communication with gas in the container, a valve coupled in series with the first line, between the source and the container, and a spring member. The valve includes a body having a first port, a second port, and an exhaust port, and the valve includes a moveable element in communication with the second line and is configured to control the flow of gas through the first line as a function of the pressure of the gas within the container. The spring member is positioned to apply a biasing force to a first side of the moveable element, and the second line provides a feedback to a second side of the moveable element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Techmaster, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Radosevic
  • Publication number: 20140182704
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for feeding a fluid to a vessel (T), including a fluid inflow or inlet opening, a distribution valve placed between the inlet opening and the vessel (T), a fluid supply line between the distribution valve and the vessel, and a valve member intercepting the supply line and movable between a first position and a second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: Butler Engineering & Marketing S.p.A.
    Inventors: Tullio Gonzaga, Silvano Santi
  • Publication number: 20140166118
    Abstract: A tire pressure control system (100) for a self-inflating tire includes a left coupling conduit (128) in fluid communication with a left tube end (104) of a peristaltic pump tube (102), a right coupling conduit (129) in fluid communication with a right tube end (105), a bypass conduit (130) extending between and coupling the left coupling conduit (128) and the right coupling conduit (129), and a bypass valve (150) configured to block the bypass conduit (130) when the tire pressure is less than a predetermined target pressure. When the bypass valve (150) substantially blocks the bypass conduit (130), then pressurized air generated in the peristaltic pump tube (102) is forced into the self-inflating tire. When the bypass valve (150) does not block the bypass conduit (130), then air is allowed to circulate within the peristaltic pump tube (102).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: Norgren GT Development Corporation
    Inventors: Charles STEPHENS, John Michael Morris
  • Patent number: 8720467
    Abstract: A purging device is provided for an assembled unit for a vehicle, having both a wheel including a rim and a tire. The purging device has a body connected to the inflation tube of the assembled unit, the body being designed to be subjected to the inflation pressure of the assembled unit, and a piston able to move inside the body. The piston operates an open/close element, fixed to the piston, between a closed position and a purging position of the body, the open/close element being normally closed, the open/close element and the piston each having a face designed to be exposed to the inflation air inside the body in the closed position. The open/close element is opened by the action of an operating force on the piston. Also disclosed is a method for deflating an assembled unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignees: Michelin Recherche et Technique S.A., Compagnie Generale des Etablissements Michelin
    Inventor: Olivier Ferlin
  • Patent number: 8701697
    Abstract: A pneumatic system includes a first line, a second line, and a valve. The first line is configured to be connected to a container, and to convey a flow of gas from a source to the container. The second line is arranged co-axially with the first line and is in communication with gas in the container. The valve is connected in series with the first line, between the source and the container. Furthermore, the valve is in communication with the second line and is configured to control the flow of gas through the first line as a function of a characteristic of the gas in the container, as communicated by the second line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Techmaster Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Radosevic
  • Publication number: 20140076409
    Abstract: A pressure control device for a vehicle tire inflating system is configured to receive compressed air via a ventilating inlet, activate at least one seal for sealing an air chamber between a stator and a rotor of a rotary feedthrough via a seal actuating outlet, and ventilate a tire at a ventilating outlet pressure via a ventilating outlet and the feedthrough. A control valve is pneumatically controllable by a control pressure, the ventilating outlet being ventilated at the outlet pressure by the control valve only when the control pressure is at least a defined minimum pressure. In response to pressure build-up at the ventilating inlet at least to the minimum pressure, the control pressure and the seal actuating pressure are built up for ventilating, but build-up of the control pressure is with respect to the seal actuating pressure. Activation of a seal prior to ventilation of the ventilating outlet is possible without additional actuating channels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventors: Dirk Bernhardt, Thomas Dieckmann, Christian Wiehen, Frank Zielke
  • Patent number: 8627852
    Abstract: A valve (20) and flow control element (22) are provided for use with a dunnage bag (24). The valve (20) includes a valve housing (40) that carries an actuator (36) and the flow control element (22). The housing (40) defines a flow passage (44), and a seal surface (48) around the flow passage. The flow control element (22) includes a peripheral attachment portion (60), a resilient, intermediate portion (62) extending generally laterally inwardly from the peripheral attachment portion and defining at least one flow aperture (64); and an imperforate central portion (68) extending generally laterally inwardly from the intermediate portion and including a seal (70) for sealing against the housing seal surface with the flow control element in a normally closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: AptarGroup, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason D. Hatton
  • Publication number: 20130291956
    Abstract: An air bag packaging arrangement adapted to have a self-adhesive checking valve includes an air bag and an air valve which is the self-adhesive checking valve. The air bag includes first and second cell overlapped layers to form an air chamber and a valve opening. The air valve includes first and second sealing films overlapped between the first and second cell layers, and a check sealing film overlapped between proximal portions of the first and second sealing films to define an air inflating channel between the first sealing film and the check sealing film, and a backflow prevention channel between the check sealing film and the second sealing film. In case of air leakage, the air is guided to flow to the backflow prevention channel for creating a supplemental air pressure to further seal and close the air inflating channel, so as to make up a deficient sealing effect of the first and second sealing films.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: Shanghai Air-Paq Composite Material Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jiaying Zhang, Yaopeng Zhang
  • Publication number: 20130284274
    Abstract: A system includes a fluid controller coupled to an inflatable bladder and configured to add fluid to and remove fluid from the inflatable bladder, a control unit configured to provide information used by the fluid controller to adjust the pressurization of the inflatable bladder, the control unit including a user interface configured to display a plurality of indicia corresponding to a range of pressure levels in which the inflatable bladder is employed by a user, where each of the plurality of indicia is associated with a different level of pressure of the inflatable bladder, respectively. In one embodiment, the fluid controller is configured to adjust the pressurization, in response to a user input at the user interface, to a pressure level selected by the user based on a current pressure level of the inflatable bladder, the pressure level selected by the user and an operating time of the fluid controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Robert B. Chaffee
  • Publication number: 20130276902
    Abstract: The present invention is a central tire inflation system and a valve for use in the system including a casing securable to the rim of a vehicle in communication with the tire that houses a main body connectable to a pressurized fluid supply of the central tire inflation system, and a valve member moveable within the main body to control the flow of air through the valve. The valve can be mounted flush on the exterior surface of the rim or in a recessed position within the rim, and can be connected to a manifold that is able to control the flow of pressurized fluid from the central tire inflation system to each valve and tire connected to the valve. The operation of the manifold and pressurized fluid supply can be controlled utilizing a controller operably connected to the manifold and fluid supply.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Martin A. Medley, Douglas P. Miler
  • Publication number: 20130146193
    Abstract: A tire pressure equalization system for controlling air pressure between a first tire and a second tire has a housing with a bore extending therethrough, a first air passageway with an end opening to an interior of the bore, a second air passageway with an end opening to an interior of the bore, and a valve positioned in the bore. The first air passageway is connected to the first tire. The second air passageway is connected to the second tire. The valve is movable between a first position in which the first air passageway communicates with the second air passageway so as to allow the air to equalize between the first and second tires and a second position that blocks communication between the first air passageway and the second air passageway so as to prevent air from flowing between the first tire and the second tire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: HSM Tire Company
    Inventor: Thomas Greenshields STEPHENSON
  • Patent number: 8429778
    Abstract: A patient-support apparatus includes an inflatable support structure, a variable output pump, a power supply and a controller. The pump includes a driver that is responsive to variations in the power signal applied to the driver to vary the output from the pump. The pump output is varied depending on the amount of flow needed as determined by a sensor that senses the pressure in the inflatable support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Receveur, Joshua A. Williams, Bradley T. Wilson, Irvin J. Vanderpohl
  • Patent number: 8418713
    Abstract: A mobile tire inflator includes a control panel, multiple air passages, an inflation valve, a discharge valve and a pressure sensor. The user can control the operation of the inflation valve and the discharge valve automatically or manually by through a control panel, and switch between the automatic mode and the manual mode during operation. Matching with the operation of the pressure sensor, the mobile tire inflator achieves accurate tire pressure inflation and discharge and has the advantages of operation flexibility and high mobility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Raymond Huang
  • Patent number: 8387650
    Abstract: An auto compression valve, comprising a rear housing with an air release hole; a front housing screwed with the rear housing; a taper piston moveably mounted in the rear housing; a spring mounted in the front housing, wherein one end of the spring is placed in the cavity of the front housing, another end is sleeved on the cylinder end of the taper piton; a lock ring with an air release groove fixed between the rear and front housings. Air release is realized through the air release hole and the air release groove, thus all parts of the valve can be assembled more tightly to prevent coming loose, maintaining the necessary pressure for inflating tires and controlling the air leaking flow in deflation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: David Chi Ying Hong
  • Patent number: 8387671
    Abstract: A purge valve for a mounted assembly for a vehicle consisting of a wheel comprising a rim and of a tire, the valve comprising a body associated with the rim and a piston able to move with respect to the body between a closed position and a purge position and the valve being normally closed. The opening of the valve is obtained by the moving of the piston into the space radially external to the rim, the opening being obtained by action of a control force on the piston, exerted from the space radially internal to the rim, and provided by compressed air led from the space radially internal to the rim to the radially interior surface of the piston and the compressed air led from the space radially internal to the rim to the radially interior surface of the piston being at a pressure lower than or equal to that of the mounted assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignees: Campagnie Generale des Etablissements Michelin, Michelin Recherche et Technique S.A.
    Inventor: Pierre Durif
  • Patent number: 8307869
    Abstract: The present invention is a wheel assembly having a rim with a valve aperture extending therethrough that is designed to receive a valve having a simplified a construction that can be seated directly within a tire wheel assembly to minimize the number and type of components necessary for the valve. The valve includes a main body that is positionable in a sealed and recessed or embedded configuration within the aperture in the wheel rim in communication with the interior of the tire and with a pressurized air source that is used to inflate or deflate the tire. The main body encloses a valve mechanism that includes a components situated within the main body in a manner that enables the parts to be easily removed, cleaned and/or replaced if necessary without having to remove the entire valve assembly from the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Global Engineering Marketing LLC
    Inventors: Martin A. Medley, Douglas P. Miller, Donald E. Blackman
  • Patent number: 8297309
    Abstract: An inflatable product has an air pump device and a pressure releasing valve. The air pump device has a housing and a pumping assembly. The housing has two openings as an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The pumping assembly is mounted in the housing and has a motor and a fan. The motor is mounted between the inlet and outlet openings and drives the fan. Consequently, mounting the motor between the first opening and the second opening dissipates the heat of the motor because the air passing by the motor cools the motor. The pressure releasing valve is adjusted by users and releases air while pressure of air in the inflatable body reaches a predetermined pressure level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Cheng-Chung Wang
  • Patent number: 8251083
    Abstract: A system for preventing overinflation of an inner tube is disclosed. In some embodiments, the system may include a wheel; and a tube-bursting region of the wheel, wherein the tube-bursting region is configured to facilitate bursting of an associated inner tube when the associated inner tube is pressurized above a predetermined maximum pressure. A tire system also is disclosed. In some embodiments, the system may include a wheel; and a tube-bursting region of the wheel, wherein the tube-bursting region is configured to facilitate bursting of an associated inner tube when the associated inner tube is pressurized above a predetermined maximum pressure. A children's ride-on vehicle also is disclosed. In some embodiments, the vehicle may include a wheel; and a tube-bursting region of the wheel, wherein the tube-bursting region is configured to facilitate bursting of an associated inner tube when the associated inner tube is pressurized above a predetermined maximum pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald M. Asbach, William R. Howell
  • Publication number: 20120204970
    Abstract: In one aspect, the invention provides a method for a user to adjust a pressure in an inflatable device. The method includes acts of adjusting the pressure in the inflatable device with a control device to a pressure preferred by the user, where the pressure preferred by the user has a first value, and establishing a first setting corresponding to the pressure preferred by the user with the control device, and automatically establishing a second setting corresponding to a second pressure having a second value once the first setting is established, where the second value differs from the first value by a predetermined amount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventor: Robert B. Chaffee
  • Patent number: 8230874
    Abstract: A configurable fluid transfer system for inflatable footwear includes a manifold. The manifold is part of an inflation system having an underfoot pump connected to one of the plurality of openings in the heel side of the manifold, an inflatable forefoot bladder connected to two of the plurality of openings in the bottom surface of the manifold and an inflatable heel bladder connected to one of the plurality of openings in the bottom surface of the manifold. fluid flows from the underfoot pump to the inflatable forefoot bladder through a one-way valve and into a first channel in the manifold connected to a forefoot bladder. The fluid inflates the forefoot bladder and exits into a second channel in the manifold. Fluid flows from the inflatable forefoot bladder to the inflatable heel bladder through the second channel and inflates the heel bladder. A pressure regulator including a porous material may be in fluid communication with the fluid transfer system to control the rate of fluid exiting the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Reebok International Limited
    Inventors: Brian Christensen, Paul M. Davis
  • Publication number: 20120090698
    Abstract: A pressure control and feedback system for an adjustable foam support includes a vacuum pump for drawing air from a hermetically sealed foam core to reduce the firmness of the core. A valve opens to permit and closes to block the passage of air into and out of the core. A remotely operated controller generates control signals to selectively start and stop operation of the pump, and selectively open and close the valve, which provides a selected level of pneumatic pressure and corresponding firmness in the core. A pressure sensor detects the pressure and firmness of the core and generates representative feedback signals. An indicator device responsive to the feedback signals indicates the sensed firmness of the core. Software calibrates the system and provides the system with intelligent operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventors: Gualtiero G. Giori, Janine Giori
  • Publication number: 20120085158
    Abstract: A pneumatic circuit whereby small amounts of variations in pneumatic pressure in a tire occurring during tire testing can be adjusted in a short time. The pneumatic circuit includes an air supply source which generates compressed air to be supplied to a tire retained in a tire testing device; a pressure regulating valve which regulates the pressure of the compressed air generated; a discharge/supply valve provided downstream of the pressure regulating valve and by which compressed air is supplied to, or discharged from, the tire; a pressure detection unit provided downstream of the discharge/supply valve and which detects the tire pressure inside the tire; and a volume adjustment mechanism provided between the pressure regulating valve and the tire and which increases or decreases the volume of compressed air in an airflow path between the tire and the pressure regulating valve, as well as in the tire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho (Kobe Steel, Ltd.)
    Inventors: Masao Murakami, Yoshiaki Matsubara, Maiko Nakayama, Hajime Takeda
  • Publication number: 20120048392
    Abstract: A pressure relief valve device includes a mount adapted to be mounted on an inflatable article, and having an abutment mount defining a valve port, a valve disc disposed outwardly of the abutment mount to be axially movable to open and close the valve port, and having a stem extending through the abutment mount for connecting a biasing member. Once internal air pressure of the article exceeds a preset pressure determined by the biasing member, the stem is forced by an excess pressure of the internal air to lift the valve disc away from the valve port so as to permit escape of the internal air out of the article through the valve port for relieving the overpressure in the article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Rong-Jyh Song, Tsung-Ping Yen
  • Publication number: 20110315235
    Abstract: A valve device (10) for a pneumatic tyre (12) having an upper and lower desired inflation pressure. The valve device includes a main body (16) having an inlet port (18) adapted for sealed engagement with a compressed air supply (20) and an outlet port (22) adapted for sealed engagement with the pneumatic tyre. At least one pressure sensor (24) for sensing the pressure in the pneumatic tyre and an electrical indicating means operatively associated with the at least one pressure sensor is also provided for indicating to a user when the pressure in the pneumatic tyre is below the lower desired inflation pressure or above the upper desired inflation pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Inventors: Warwick Ian Colefax, Alex Pappas
  • Publication number: 20110297246
    Abstract: A pneumatic system includes a first line, a second line, and a valve. The first line is configured to be connected to a container, and to convey a flow of gas from a source to the container. The second line is arranged co-axially with the first line and is in communication with gas in the container. The valve is connected in series with the first line, between the source and the container. Furthermore, the valve is in communication with the second line and is configured to control the flow of gas through the first line as a function of a characteristic of the gas in the container, as communicated by the second line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventor: Michael J. Radosevic
  • Publication number: 20110272038
    Abstract: An adapter assembly is taught for attaching a tire pressure monitor onto an inflation valve which incorporates a distal end flange. An adapter is included in the assembly consisting of a collar having a configuration sized to fit over and be internally retained by the valve distal end flange, and an O-ring is positioned on the flange contiguously engaging the collar. A tire pressure monitoring cap is threadably attached to the collar which is disposed above and compresses the O-ring between the cap, collar and valve end flange. The adapter permits the tire pressure monitor to be attached, for use with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and also could prevent possible minor air leaks. The adapter may be packaged in a kit with appropriate instructions. Alternatively the tire inflation valve could be included with the adapter, forming the adapter assembly, or the monitor could be included in either case, when desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: William C. Falkenborg
  • Publication number: 20110174390
    Abstract: Devices utilized to enhance insulating properties at high temperatures. Such devices can include two gas compartments. A main gas compartment can function as a main layer and generally contains a layer of a gas (e.g., Xenon) having a relatively small thermal conductivity. The plates of the main gas layer can be separated by a soft seal, so that the main gas does not leak and the main layer expands easily. A second gas compartment can be configured as a vented compartment filled with air. At high temperatures, the main gas expands while the secondary gas volume shrinks. Since the main gas possesses a lower thermal conductivity, the effective resistance of the device increases, causing an enhancement in the insulating properties at large operating temperatures. A series of gas compartments can be utilized for additional enhancement in insulating properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventors: Kambiz Vafai, Abdul-Rahim Assaad Khaled
  • Patent number: 7918240
    Abstract: A system for preventing overinflation of an inner tube is disclosed. In some embodiments, the system may include a wheel; and a tube-bursting region of the wheel, wherein the tube-bursting region is configured to facilitate bursting of an associated inner tube when the associated inner tube is pressurized above a predetermined maximum pressure. A tire system also is disclosed. In some embodiments, the system may include a wheel; and a tube-bursting region of the wheel, wherein the tube-bursting region is configured to facilitate bursting of an associated inner tube when the associated inner tube is pressurized above a predetermined maximum pressure. A children's ride-on vehicle also is disclosed. In some embodiments, the vehicle may include a wheel; and a tube-bursting region of the wheel, wherein the tube-bursting region is configured to facilitate bursting of an associated inner tube when the associated inner tube is pressurized above a predetermined maximum pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald M. Asbach, William R. Howell
  • Publication number: 20110011465
    Abstract: A controlling mechanism for an inflatable object has a valve controlling assembly for opening/closing operation of the valve, a pressure controlling assembly for sensing pressure difference to selectively activate operation of the valve and a linkage assembly interactively arranged between the valve controlling assembly and the pressure controlling assembly to sense operation of the pressure controlling assembly and consequently operate movement of the valve controlling assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: TEAM WORLDWIDE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Cheng-Chung Wang, Chien-Hua Wang
  • Patent number: 7831346
    Abstract: A method for detecting decompression of tires based on the rotational speed of wheels mounted on a vehicle, comprising the steps of: detecting the rotational speed of each of the above-mentioned wheels, determining the speed against ground of the vehicle, calculating the speed information of a fixed wheel from the rotational speeds of said wheels, calculating the judgment value of the wheel position by comparing the speed information of the wheels with the speed against ground of the vehicle, comparing the judgment value of the wheel position with the basis value of the wheel position obtained by preliminarily comparing the speed against ground of the vehicle with the speed information of the wheels at prescribed inner pressure, and judging decompression of tires based on relation between the comparison value of the basis value with the judgment value and a fixed threshold. A region of judging decompression of tires can be broadened and the accuracy of reduced pressure judgment can be improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Masashi Kitano
  • Patent number: 7770612
    Abstract: A pressure-actuated air gun having an actuating port in the nozzle of the gun such that, when the actuating port becomes blocked, as by inserting the nozzle of the gun into a coupling on an article to be inflated or deflated, air is caused to pass from a source of pressurized air to the gun. When the actuating port becomes unblocked, as by disengaging the nozzle of the gun from the coupling, air is inhibited from passing from the source of pressurized air to the gun. An air pilot actuated valve is interposed between the source and the gun, and is controlled by air pressure that builds up when the actuating port becomes blocked by the coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: Jimmy Earle Brown