With Coupling Means Patents (Class 137/231)
  • Publication number: 20120090699
    Abstract: A housing has an upper end, a lower end, and an opening extending between the upper and lower ends, the housing being sealingly attachable to an inflatable device. A check valve has a body member with an upper end, a lower end, an outer surface sized and shaped to be selectively matingly received in the opening of the housing, and an inner surface defining a passageway. The check valve is coupled to the housing by a first tether. A cap has an upper end, a lower end, and an outer surface sized and shaped to be selectively matingly received in the passageway of the check valve. The cap is coupled to the housing by a second tether.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Vincent W.S. Lau
  • Patent number: 8156955
    Abstract: An inflating nozzle assembly has a housing, two nozzles and a pushing device. The housing has two nozzle chambers and two outlets. The nozzles are mounted respectively in the first nozzle chamber, and one of the nozzles has a nozzle body, a nozzle rod and a spring. The nozzle body has at least one inlet. The nozzle rod is movably mounted in the nozzle body and has a sealing protrusion to divide two communication segments in the nozzle body. The spring is connected to the nozzle rod to keep one of the communication segments of the axial hole from communicating with the at least one inlet in the first nozzle body. Accordingly, an airflow led through the outlets of the housing can be automatically switched by inserting different types of air valves into the corresponding outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Inventor: Wei-Chi Wang
  • Publication number: 20120085430
    Abstract: A device and method for sealing an inflated balloon includes providing a balloon-tying pump nozzle that has an air nozzle defining an air passageway adapted for communicating air between an air-collection chamber of an air pump and the environment and a balloon-neck-engaging extension adjacent to and extending substantially parallel to the air nozzle, the balloon-neck-engaging extension defining a channel between the balloon-neck-engaging extension and the air nozzle, wherein the channel is sized to accept a neck of a standard party balloon therein while inhibiting a lip of the standard party balloon from passing therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventors: Paul J. Johansson, Paul David Johansson
  • Publication number: 20120037244
    Abstract: A nipple for connecting any conventional pipe to any conventional part. Also disclosed is an air pump facilitator for facilitating the pumping of air into an air tire. Also disclosed is an INLINE air pressure gauge for measuring the pressure being pumped through said air hose. Also disclosed is an electronic INLINE air pressure gauge for measuring the pressure being pumped through said air hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventor: MORRIS OSTROWIECKI
  • Publication number: 20120031504
    Abstract: A head for an air pump includes a housing, a nozzle, an urging mechanism, and an end cap. The housing includes a first compartment defined therein and including a first end defining an opening port and a second end enclosed by an end wall. The housing further includes a hole extending therethrough and into the first compartment. The nozzle device is disposed within the first compartment. The urging mechanism includes a cam, an axle and a pivoting member. The cam is disposed in the first compartment and abuts against the nozzle device. The axle is inserted into the housing through the holes and engages with the cam. The pivoting member is connected to the cam by engaging with a terminal end of the axle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: Scott Wu
  • Publication number: 20110290339
    Abstract: A pump nozzle includes a housing body including a lateral edge. The lateral edge defines a valve connecting end and a lever connecting end. A lever is connected to the lever connecting end and is operably pivotal between a first position and a second position. Also, the lever includes a first extension and a second extension extending therefrom and angled thereto. When the lever is in the first position, its first extension is disposed in and adjacent to the lateral edge and is oriented towards the top edge of the housing body, and its second extension is disposed in and adjacent to the top edge and is orientated towards the valve connecting end of the housing body. When the lever is in the second position, the first and second extensions are disposed outside the lateral edge and top edge of the housing body, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Scott Wu
  • Publication number: 20110155260
    Abstract: An inflation device includes a central tube, a first mounting unit mounted onto an outside of a reception end of the central tube and a second unit connected to a connection portion on the other end of the central tube. The first mounting unit includes a first casing and an end cap, and the reception end includes a valve mouth and a core tube received therein. The second mounting unit includes inner threads that are connected with the connection portion. A groove is defined in the second mounting unit and an O-ring is engaged with the groove. The first and second mounting units can be connected with an American style tire valve and a French style tire valve, respectively. The first and second mounting units each have outer threads with the same diameter so as to be connected with a tire pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventors: Ying-Che Huang, Chun-Ming Huang
  • Patent number: 7963297
    Abstract: A dispensing head for an air pump includes a sleeve connected to the air pump and a chamber is defined in an end of the sleeve. The end having the chamber of the sleeve is received in a housing and a mount piece is securely received in the housing. A first seal ring is mounted to the mount piece and in contact with an inner periphery of the chamber. The mount piece includes a plurality of inner threads defined axially in a central passage in the mount piece, so that the threaded section of a French valve is threadedly connected to the inner threads. A second groove is defined in the mount piece and a second seal ring is engaged with the second groove. The second seal ring is mounted to a neck of the French valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventors: Ying-Che Huang, Chun-Ming Huang
  • Publication number: 20110079337
    Abstract: A fixing element (470) that enables an electronic unit (440) to be fixed on the inside of a tire-wheel assembly, on the tubular insert (433) of an inflation valve (430) of the tire-wheel assembly, the fixing element comprising: an interface piece (471) comprising means to establish a connection with the tubular insert of the valve and a housing (488) for a seal (460); at least one container (473) holding or designed to hold the electronic unit; and at least one attachment piece(472) that enables elastic coupling between the interface piece and the container. A method for mounting an electronic unit (440) on a tire-wheel assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Applicant: Michelin Recherche et Technique S.A.
    Inventors: Patrick Botte, Xavier Huchard, Julien Moynet, José-Philippe Valente
  • Publication number: 20110011466
    Abstract: A relatively thin, rectangular shaped device with a semi-circle attachment ring. The device contains a slot in its face, which slot narrows as it reaches the center of the rectangle so that when it engages the valve stem of a cut-check valve, the valve is deformed without damage a sufficient degree so that the cut-check valve is unseated, allowing air to pass either way through the cut-check valve. The attachment ring can be secured to the product being deflated for storage and future use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventor: Anthony Joseph Morrone, II
  • Patent number: 7866335
    Abstract: An air valve connecting device includes a mouth attached to one end of a housing and having a compartment for engaging with a U.S. type valve, and having a bore for engaging with a French type valve, a barrel engaged onto the mouth, an actuator engaged in the housing and having a shank for engaging with the barrel for selectively receiving the French type valve, a tube engaged in the actuator for engaging with the French type valve, and the tube is extendible into the mouth for selectively engaging with the U.S. type valve, a handle includes a cam member for forcing the actuator to secure either the French type valve or the tube to the actuator, and for forcing the barrel and the mouth to engage with either the French type valve or the U.S. type valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventor: Lopin Wang
  • Patent number: 7857015
    Abstract: An inflation needle for inflating an object such as a sports ball includes a tubular body having an attachment end configured for engagement with a fluid supply. The body fairs into a tubular probe extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end configured for being inserted into the ball. A concavo-convex base extends radially outward from the body and towards the distal end, terminating at a periphery spaced radially from the probe, the base being configured to engage the object upon insertion of the probe therein. The inflation needle is a unitary component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventors: Patricia C. Voorhies, Daniel R. Marlowe
  • Publication number: 20100313968
    Abstract: An inflation valve is revealed. The inflation valve includes a longitudinal valve body, a valve member and an elastic member sleeved between the valve member and the longitudinal valve body. The longitudinal valve body includes an axially extending hole disposed therein, a projecting edge arranged on the axially extending hole and a round through hole disposed on a center of the projecting edge, and two alignment members having at least one projecting body and/or one concave slot. A round valve head is arranged on the front end of the valve member and alignment members corresponding to the alignment members of the longitudinal valve body disposed on an outer edge of the valve head. While being assembled, the valve head passes the through hole by alignment of the alignment members between the valve member and the longitudinal valve body and becomes staggered. Moreover, by the elastic member, the valve head presses and locks onto the round through hole to form a closed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: William LEE
  • Publication number: 20100290931
    Abstract: A hand-actuated pump includes a cylinder with a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end defines an opening. The hand-actuated pump also includes a piston with a proximal end. The proximal end of the piston is configured to be slidably inserted into the distal end of the cylinder. An exhaust port is positioned at the proximal end of the cylinder and includes a coupler that is configured to be removably attached to an inflatable object and to communicate air to the inflatable object. The coupler is also configured to be selectively locked in an extended position and a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventors: Anthony Jonathan Sanders, Tim Austen, Brian Coleman
  • Patent number: 7730913
    Abstract: An inflation needle for inflating an object such as a sports ball includes a tubular body having an attachment end configured for engagement with a fluid supply. The body fairs into a tubular probe extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end configured for being inserted into the ball. A concavo-convex base extends radially outward from the body and towards the distal end, terminating at a periphery spaced radially from the probe, the base being configured to engage the object upon insertion of the probe therein. The inflation needle is a unitary, molded polymeric component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Inventors: Patricia C. Voorhies, Daniel R. Marlowe
  • Patent number: 7661435
    Abstract: Pump connector for Presta valve is disclosed in which one end of a pump connector valve seal is formed with a hollow chamber, and is disposed inside a space of a cap having a channel. The hollow chamber is assembled with a valve seal insert which includes a through hole. The second end of the through hole is formed with an inner edge corresponding to the shape of the shoulder section of the Presta valve. An end cap is assembled with the cap for preventing the pump connector valve seal from separating from the cap. Accordingly, the Presta valve can be screwed together with a first internal thread of the cap, and at the same time the shoulder section of the Presta valve is tightly fitted to the inner edge of the valve seal insert for direct inflation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventor: Ying-Che Huang
  • Publication number: 20090229677
    Abstract: A pump connector device includes two or more sleeves engaged into a housing for receiving inflation valves, a mobile member engaged in the housing for compressing the sleeves to grasp the inflation valves, two or more valve elements engaged into the sleeves for engaging with the inflation valves, a casing slidably engaged in the housing and having a conduit and two or more spaces for receiving the valve elements and for forcing the mobile member to compress the sleeves to grasp the inflation valves, the inflation valves may disengage the valve elements from the mobile member for allowing the pressurized air to flow into the mobile member when the mobile member and the sleeves are compressed by the casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventor: Lopin Wang
  • Patent number: 7588048
    Abstract: An air pump nozzle includes a housing with an inflation hole. An inner space of the housing lodges a block assembly seat having a compartment at an end. The compartment lodges a block member having an insertion hole. A needle tube with an air outlet is inserted through the insertion hole and is retained to avoid being disaffiliated from the block member. The design of separate needle tube and block assembly seat can simplify the manufacturing procedure and product assembly, as well as reduce the manufacturing cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventor: Ying-Che Huang
  • Publication number: 20090205718
    Abstract: A valve connector for connecting to inflation valves of vehicle tires. The valve connector is configured to be operable with common valve types and with existing pressure sources. The valve connector is configured to automatically adjust to the valve being used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Nicolaas van der Blom
  • Publication number: 20090188570
    Abstract: A rapid inflation device for connecting a forced air supply source to the air nozzle of a tire that has an air valve mounted therein for controlling input and output of air is disclosed to include a casing for connection to the air nozzle, an air intake connector rotatably mounted on the casing for the connection of the forced air supply source, and a valve pickup device for carrying the air valve away from the air nozzle to let forced air pass from the forced air supply source into the inside of the tire freely or to let tire air be discharged out of the tire through the same circulation path. By means of rotating the air intake connector forwards or backwards, the forced air supply source is connected to or disconnected from the rapid inflation device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: JIN DAI AUTO SUPPLIES CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shirley Lin
  • Patent number: 7562671
    Abstract: A valve connector of an air pump includes a case with a channel and a guiding room therein. The channel is communicated with the guiding room. Two valve connector assemblies are provided in the case, each of which has a tunnel communicated with the guiding room, wherein the tunnels form apertures on a sidewall of the guiding room. A switching device is received in the guiding room and pivoted on the sidewall of the guiding room. The switching device has two arms on opposite sides of a pivot axle thereof. The arms are moved toward or away from the apertures respectively when the switching device is swung to close or open the apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventor: Lo-Pin Wang
  • Publication number: 20080308158
    Abstract: A pump head with improved structure includes a lever pivotally mounted thereto. A plunger is installed in the pump head and includes a recessed portion formed around the outer periphery thereof and a sealing member receivable at the outer periphery thereof for preventing air from passing therethrough. A first anti-backflow member is also installed in the pump head and is mounted on the outer periphery of the plunger for allowing a flow of the air in one direction. An air induction member is installed in the pump head and rests on the plunger in the longitudinal direction of the plunger. A seal gasket is also installed in the pump head and rests on the air induction member in the longitudinal direction of said air induction member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Scott Wu
  • Publication number: 20080271789
    Abstract: Pump connector for Presta valve is disclosed in which one end of a pump connector valve seal is formed with a hollow chamber, and is disposed inside a space of a cap having a channel. The hollow chamber is assembled with a valve seal insert which includes a through hole. The second end of the through hole is formed with an inner edge corresponding to the shape of the shoulder section of the Presta valve. An end cap is assembled with the cap for preventing the pump connector valve seal from separating from the cap. Accordingly, the Presta valve can be screwed together with a first internal thread of the cap, and at the same time the shoulder section of the Presta valve is tightly fitted to the inner edge of the valve seal insert for direct inflation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventor: Ying-Che Huang
  • Publication number: 20080251133
    Abstract: A pumping valve with a safety leaking device includes a main body and a leaking valve. The main body has an inlet tube formed vertical on its outer wall, which is bored with an air passage to communicate with the main body. The leaking valve is formed on the main body, having a valve base with male threads and a chamber bored with a through hole. A blocker base containing a blocker in its one end is inserted in the chamber. A compression spring is inserted in the chamber, too. A valve cover is covered on the valve base, having female threads formed inside it and a leaking vent bored at its outer end. When the air pumped in an object has a pressure larger than that preset, the pumping device automatically leaks air out from the leaking vent, achieving safety pumping.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventor: Min-Hsieng Wang
  • Publication number: 20080236675
    Abstract: An air valve connecting device includes a mouth attached to one end of a housing and having a compartment for engaging with a U.S. type valve, and having a bore for engaging with a French type valve, a barrel engaged onto the mouth, an actuator engaged in the housing and having a shank for engaging with the barrel for selectively receiving the French type valve, a tube engaged in the actuator for engaging with the French type valve, and the tube is extendible into the mouth for selectively engaging with the U.S. type valve, a handle includes a cam member for forcing the actuator to secure either the French type valve or the tube to the actuator, and for forcing the barrel and the mouth to engage with either the French type valve or the U.S. type valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: Lopin Wang
  • Publication number: 20080190489
    Abstract: A chuck for connecting a pressure device to a valve stem of a pressurized vessel includes a body portion having a first passageway that is configured to receive an outer tube portion of a valve stem of a pressurized vessel therein. The body portion has a guide portion at an inner end of the first passageway. A pin element is movably disposed within a second passageway of the body portion and is movable along the coaxial passageways. The pin element extends longitudinally from the guide portion and toward an engaging end of the body portion. The guide portion includes an alignment element at least partially around the second passageway and extending longitudinally toward the engaging end of the body portion and at least partially around the pin element for engaging and supporting an interior portion of the end of the outer tube portion of the valve stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Applicant: EQAIR, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Wrubel, Fu Xinlong
  • Publication number: 20080173351
    Abstract: A valve connector for coupling with inflation valves of vehicle tyres, comprising a housing, within the housing a coupling hole for coupling with an inflation valve, the coupling hole having a central axis and an outer opening, positioning means for positioning the inflation valve when coupled in the coupling hole, and an activating pin, which is arranged coaxially with the coupling hole, for depressing a central spring-force operated core pin of the inflation valve, a cylinder (303) having a cylinder wall provided with a pressure port which is connected to a pressure source, wherein the activating pin is shiftable between a proximal pin position and a distal pin position relative to the positioning means so as to depress the core pin of the inflation valve in its distal pin position and disengage the core pin of the inflation valve in its proximal pin position when the inflation valve is positioned by the positioning means, the activating pin is coupled with a piston (304) and the piston (304) is slidingly a
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventor: Nicolass van der Blom
  • Publication number: 20070272301
    Abstract: An air pump nozzle includes a housing with an inflation hole. An inner space of the housing lodges a block assembly seat having a compartment at an end. The compartment lodges a block member having an insertion hole. A needle tube with an air outlet is inserted through the insertion hole and is retained from affiliating from the block member. The design of separate needle tube and block assembly seat can simplify the manufacturing procedure and product assembly, as well as reduce the manufacturing cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Publication date: November 29, 2007
    Inventor: Ying-Che Huang
  • Patent number: 7273066
    Abstract: A valve connector for coupling with inflation valves of vehicle tyres, comprising a housing, within the housing a coupling hole for coupling with an inflation valve, the coupling hole having a central axis and an outer opening, positioning means for positioning the inflation valve when coupled in the coupling hole, and an activating pin, which is arranged coaxially with the coupling hole, for depressing a central spring-force operated core pin of the inflation valve, a cylinder (303) having a cylinder wall provided with a pressure port which is connected to a pressure source, wherein the activating pin is shiftable between a proximal pin position and a distal pin position relative to the positioning means so as to depress the core pin of the inflation valve in its distal pin position and disengage the core pin of the inflation valve in its proximal pin position when the inflation valve is positioned by the positioning means, the activating pin is coupled with a piston (304) and the piston (304) is slidingly a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: NVB International
    Inventor: Nicolass van der Blom
  • Patent number: 7270142
    Abstract: An apparatus that injects fluid into an inflatable device, dynamically monitors the pressure inside the device, and automatically terminates the inflation and disconnects from the inflatable device when the pressure inside the device reaches a predetermined value preset by the operator. After securing a chuck to the valve of an inflatable device by simply pulling a trigger similar to that of a pistol, the operator initiates the inflation and does not need to intervene further.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Inventor: Carlos R. Acosta
  • Patent number: 7195030
    Abstract: A valve includes a housing, a first nozzle, a second nozzle and a switch. The housing defines an inlet channel for communication with a pump, a chamber in communication with the inlet channel, a first outlet channel in communication with the chamber and a second outlet channel in communication with the chamber. The first nozzle is in communication with the first outlet channel. The second nozzle is in communication with the second outlet channel. The switch is received in the chamber and movable between a first position where the inlet is communicated with the first outlet channel through the chamber and a second position where the inlet is communicated with the second outlet channel through the chamber. The first nozzle is for engagement with an inlet of a tire. The second nozzle is for engagement with an inlet of a pneumatically adjustable cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Inventor: Chiang-Pei Chen
  • Patent number: 7182094
    Abstract: A nozzle through which air can be pumped into a cushion from a pump includes a housing with a passage extending therein and a space intersecting the passage. A core is put in the space in a sealing and sliding manner for pushing a valve installed in the cushion. The core defines a space. A peripheral hole through which the core communicates the space of the core with the space of the housing. A tubular lip is installed on the housing in a sealing and rotating manner. The tubular lip includes a thread formed on an internal face for engagement with a thread formed on the cushion. A control element includes a cam installed pivotally on the housing for pushing the core and a lever extending from the cam for rotating the cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Scott Wu
  • Patent number: 7178549
    Abstract: A valve coupling device includes a body having a transverse hole between two ends of the body. A first nozzle is mounted in an end of the body for coupling with a valve. A first chamber and a second chamber are mounted in the other end of the body and both in communication with the transverse hole. A switch member is pivotally extended through the transverse hole of the body. A second nozzle for coupling with a valve of another type is mounted in the switch member and in communication with the second chamber. When the switch member is in a first position, the first chamber is in communication with the first nozzle and the second chamber is blocked. When the switch member is in a second position, the second chamber is in communication with the second nozzle and the first chamber is blocked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventors: Scott Wu, Chiang-Pei Chen
  • Patent number: 7093609
    Abstract: An air inflation tube of a mini-size air pump is disclosed. The air inflation tube of the air pump has a dual direction air inflation capability, that is, inflation and deflation, and the pressure releasing and air pumping are done by the same tubular body to solve the problem of excessive tire pressure without removing the air inflation tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: Chih-Ming Chen
  • Patent number: 7066442
    Abstract: A springless valve having a valve body, a valve stem insert, and an O-ring gasket for sealing the insert to a valve seat of the valve body. As the valve stem insert rotates about its axis, fingers on vanes of the insert move within threads of the valve body, and the insert moves between valve-opened and valve-closed positions. A coupling engages with the valve body during inflation/deflation and, as the coupling rotates with respect to the valve body, it engages the insert for mutual rotation to move the insert between the valve-opened and valve-closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Rose Machine & Tool, LLC
    Inventor: Coy W. Rose
  • Patent number: 7032613
    Abstract: Connector (100) to automatically connect an inflation device to a valve, comprising a hollow stopper (8) to operate elements for opening the valve and an elastically deformable seal (3), characterised in that the seal has a lip (35) designed to: immobilize the stopper during inflation, if the aforementioned valve is of a first type; or deform to form a seal around the valve during inflation if the aforementioned valve is of a second type. This connector is particularly suitable for fitting to a bicycle pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: ZEFAL
    Inventor: Alain Delorme
  • Patent number: 7032612
    Abstract: An air chuck that accommodates a Schrader valve, or U.S.-type valve, in a retracted position and further accommodates a Presta valve, or French-type valve, in an extended position. The air chuck has a chuck body that slides relative to a chuck housing. A lock pin extends radially outwardly from the sliding chuck body and travels along an elongated channel in the chuck housing. When the sliding chuck body reaches its extended position, to accommodate a Presta valve, the lock pin exits the elongated channel and is received in an annular channel defined by an inside wall of an end of a cap secured to the chuck housing, and a rim of the chuck housing. A second annular channel communicates with the elongated channel to receive the lock pin when the sliding chuck body is in the retracted position. The annular channels allow the sliding chuck body to be rotated relative to the chuck housing to lock the chuck body in the extended or retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: G.H. Meiser & CO
    Inventor: Kerry A. Shipman
  • Patent number: 6978796
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a universal air connector for an air pump which fits all three types of air valves presently found on air tires for bicycles. The universal air connector basically comprises an outer connector for connecting to an American type air valve and an inner connector for connecting to a British or French type of air valve, the inner connector slidingly fitting inside the outer connector in the axial directions thereof but not in the radial direction thereof. The universal connector further comprises means for activating an air inlet pin inside the American type air valve, and means for connecting an air hose to said connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Inventor: Morris Ostrowiecki
  • Patent number: 6955531
    Abstract: A pump is capable of inflating and deflating an inflatable object. The pump includes a cylinder, a piston and a nozzle. The cylinder defines an outlet through which air can only flow into the cylinder and an inlet through which air can only flow from the cylinder. The piston reciprocates in the cylinder. The nozzle defines a first hole for communication with the inflatable object and a second hole for communication with the exterior. The nozzle is rotationally mounted on the cylinder between an inflating mode and a deflating mode. In the inflating mode, the first hole is communicated with the outlet, and the second hole with the inlet. In the deflating mode, the first hole is communicated with the inlet, and the second hole with the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: Scott Wu
  • Patent number: 6904932
    Abstract: A nozzle adapter for use in converting a nozzle designed for use with Schrader type valves to a nozzle usable with Presta type valves is provided. The nozzle adapter includes an inner sleeve defining a central opening into which the Schrader nozzle can be inserted at one end. The adapter also includes an opening at the opposite end into which a Presta type valve can be inserted. The adapter includes a locking mechanism selectively operable by an outer sleeve that is slidably mounted to the inner sleeve to effectively retain the Schrader nozzle in alignment with the adapter to allow the Schrader nozzle to be utilized as a Presta nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Trek Bicycle Corporation
    Inventor: James Haraughty
  • Patent number: 6843270
    Abstract: A connector of an inflating device has a housing having a central chamber and three side chambers. Three connector assemblies are mounted in the side chambers respectively to be coupled with various types of valve stems. Each of the connector assemblies have a valve member and an elastic member, wherein the valve member moves between a close position, in which the valve member isolates the side chamber from the central chamber, and an open position, in which the valve member keeps the side chamber communicated with the central chamber. A rotary member mounted on the housing for rotation to respectively push the valve members of the connector assemblies from the close positions to the open position while the rotary member is turn for the cam portion orientating the side chambers respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: Lo-Pin Wang
  • Publication number: 20040250852
    Abstract: An air chuck that accommodates a Schrader valve, or U.S.-type valve, in a retracted position and further accommodates a Presta valve, or French-type valve, in an extended position. The air chuck has a chuck body that slides relative to a chuck housing. A lock pin extends radially outwardly from the sliding chuck body and travels along an elongated channel in the chuck housing. When the sliding chuck body reaches its extended position, to accommodate a Presta valve, the lock pin exits the elongated channel and is received in an annular channel defined by an inside wall of an end of a cap secured to the chuck housing, and a rim of the chuck housing. A second annular channel communicates with the elongated channel to receive the lock pin when the sliding chuck body is in the retracted position. The annular channels allow the sliding chuck body to be rotated relative to the chuck housing to lock the chuck body in the extended or retracted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: December 16, 2004
    Inventor: Kerry A. Shipman
  • Patent number: 6786247
    Abstract: An inflating device has a tubular body, a connector, an inflating needle, an end cap, a holder, an adapter and an airflow controlling device. The body has a central hole. The connector is formed on the body and has an inlet channel communicating with the central hole. The inflating needle is mounted on the body and has a first inflating channel communicating with the central hole. The end cap is attached to the body. The holder is received in the body and abuts against the end cap. The adapter is received in the body and has a second inflating channel. The airflow controlling device is mounted in the body to selectively communicate the inlet channel in the connector with one of the inflating channels. Accordingly, the inflating device can be adapted to inflate different types of objects and is versatile in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventors: Kurt Kemppainen, Tom Moeller
  • Publication number: 20030234042
    Abstract: Connector (100) to automatically connect an inflation device to a valve, comprising a hollow stopper (8) to operate means of opening the valve and an elastically deformable seal (3), characterised in that the seal has a lip (35) designed to:
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Applicant: ZEFAL
    Inventor: Alain Delorme
  • Patent number: 6651689
    Abstract: A valve stem assembly for use with a pneumatic tire includes a stem, a first quick couple connector and a second quick couple connector. The first quick couple connector is attached to the stem. The first quick couple connector includes a first valve therein. The second quick couple connector is detachably coupled with the first quick couple connector. The second quick couple connector opens the first valve when the first quick couple connector and the second quick couple connector are coupled together. The second quick couple connector includes a second valve therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Reineke Company Inc.
    Inventor: Clyde G. Stech
  • Patent number: 6631729
    Abstract: A universal valve connector for valves of vehicle tires comprises a connector housing, partly connected to a pressure source, preferably a hand or foot pump, and has a coupling hole with a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the valve for connection, where the coupling hole has securing means, plus a sealing means against various valve sizes. The sealing means is mounted coaxially in the connector housing and established on at least two parallel levels, having the centre line of the connector housing, where the minor diameters of the sealing means correspond to the major diameter of the valve, where the connector is mounted when used. The sealing means, closest to the coupling hole in the connector housing has the biggest minor diameter, while the sealing means farthest from the coupling hole has the smallest minor diameter, and diameters between the extremes correspond to distance between these extremes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: NVB International
    Inventor: Nicolaas van der Blom
  • Publication number: 20030024570
    Abstract: An emergency air hose suitable for inclusion in a roadside emergency kit comprises a coiled air hose having a locking connector on one end and a manually engagable connector on the other end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Jay A. Haman
  • Patent number: 6401744
    Abstract: The purpose of the invention is to provide a valve actuator with an activating pin of a simple construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: NVB International
    Inventor: Nicolaas Van Der Blom
  • Patent number: 6382268
    Abstract: An inflation device includes a first section having a threaded recess for receiving a valve of an object to be inflated, and a flange extends radially inward from an inner periphery of the first section. A tunnel is defined through the flange and an insertion of a second section extends through a rear end of the first section and is movably engaged with the tunnel. An end member with a path is connected to the insertion and a passage is defined through the second section. The end member is movably inserted in the threaded recess to push a seal pin of the valve in the threaded recess while the valve is air-tightly received in the threaded recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Sze-Nan Lin
  • Publication number: 20020046772
    Abstract: By a universal valve connector for inflation valves of vehicle tires (Sclaverand, Dunlop-Woods, or Schrader), whose connector consists of a connector housing (368), which partly is connected to a pressure source, preferably a hand or foot pump, and which partly has a coupling hold (5) with a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the valve, which is to be connected, where the coupling hole is equipped with a securing means for securing on the valve, plus a sealing means against valves of different sizes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Inventor: Nicolaas van der Blom