Reverse Fluid Flow Patents (Class 137/239)
  • Patent number: 11319517
    Abstract: A beverage maker includes a water supply module configured to supply water used by the beverage maker, an ingredient supplier that is connected to the water supply module through a first main channel and that includes a plurality of ingredient holders, a fermentation module connected to the ingredient supplier through a second main channel and configured to receive ingredients from the ingredient supplier and water from the water supply module, a beverage dispenser connected to the second main channel, and a sub channel configured to connect the water supply module to the beverage dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Shic Yoon, Dullae Min, Jeongik Heo
  • Patent number: 10238326
    Abstract: A flushable fluid handling assembly including a housing element defining a central bore and at least first, second and third ports, the first and third ports being line connection ports and the second port being a syringe connection port, a handle element which is selectably positionable relative to the housing element, at least one fluid passageway communicating between at least two of the at least first, second and third ports, the at least one fluid passageway being selectably defined by rotational positioning of the handle element relative to the housing element, a first fluid flow guide extending radially to an inner facing wall of the central bore, the first fluid flow guide associated with the at least one fluid flow passageway and a syringe fixedly connected to the second port, the syringe including an axially displaceable plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: Elcam Medical Agricultural Cooperative Association Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomer Gil, Alex Zislin
  • Patent number: 10190713
    Abstract: A quick coupling element with discharge member and coupling member comprising such an element are disclosed. The coupling element comprises a tubular body defining an inner channel for the passage of a pressurized fluid and a longitudinal axis, and a relief member of the inner channel, movable between a first position, closing off a relief passage connecting the inner channel to the outside of the body, and a second forward position where it does not close off this relief passage. The relief member is a ring that is that is movable between two positions around a central member. The relief ring defines, at least in part, the relief passage. In the first position, the relief ring seals the central member over a first sealing circumference, and against the peripheral part over a second sealing circumference. The coupling element further comprises an elastic return member for returning the relief ring toward its first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: STAUBLI FAVERGES
    Inventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Christophe Durieux, Frederic Morel, Mathieu Sallaz
  • Patent number: 9914632
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for delivering precursor materials derived from liquid chemicals to a process chamber are provided herein. In some embodiments, a liquid chemical delivery apparatus includes: a body having an inner volume to hold a liquid chemical, an inlet to receive a carrier gas into the inner volume, and an outlet to flow the carrier gas from the inner volume, wherein a bottom of the inner volume includes a reduced volume portion; and a level sensor configured to detect a level of the liquid chemical in the reduced volume portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Ilker Durukan, Muhammad M. Rasheed, Paul F. Ma
  • Patent number: 9181074
    Abstract: A container filling arrangement having a liquid duct to dispense a stream of liquid into a container, as well as a flushing tube disposed outside of the liquid duct. The flushing tube can be extended into the container to deliver flushing gas to flush out gas present in the container, and can then be retracted prior to filling of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Assignee: KHS GmbH
    Inventors: Ludwig Clüsserath, Dieter-Rudolf Krulitsch
  • Patent number: 9016316
    Abstract: According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a stopcock including a housing element defining at least first, second and third ports, a handle element which is selectably positionable relative to the housing element, at least one fluid passageway communicating between at least two of the at least first, second and third ports, the at least one fluid passageway being selectably defined by at least one of the housing element and the handle element, the at least one fluid passageway being configured for enabling flushing an internal volume of at least one of the first, second and third ports by a fluid flow which does not flow entirely through the port whose internal volume is being flushed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Elcam Medical Agricultural Cooperative Association Ltd.
    Inventors: David Ziv, Gil Tomer
  • Patent number: 8999070
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus for removing a blockage from a fluid conduit. An apparatus comprises a first portion containing a fluid volume separated from the fluid conduit via a controllable valve. The valve is cyclically opened and closed such that a pressure differential between the first portion and the fluid conduit causes a series of pressure pulses in the fluid conduit. The pressure differential is regulated to control the amplitude of the pressure pulses of the series.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Paradigm Flow Services Services Limited
    Inventor: Hugh MacKenzie
  • Publication number: 20140283924
    Abstract: A cleaning process is provided for a test apparatus that has a switch, external connections and internal volumes that can come into contact with a fluid from a filter to be tested or a container to be tested. The cleaning process includes selecting one or more internal volumes to be cleaned, cleaning the selected internal volumes with a cleaning fluid by a corresponding switching of the switch, at least partially draining the cleaning fluid left in the selected internal volumes after cleaning, and flushing the selected internal volumes with a flushing fluid different from the cleaning fluid. Also provided are a computer program product for performing the cleaning process, a cleaning apparatus, and a test apparatus for testing filters and containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventors: Martin Dahlberg, Hartmut Langer, Jens Meyer, Sven-Oliver Otto
  • Patent number: 8678026
    Abstract: An automatic vacuum-relief apparatus for liquid suction systems includes a vessel defining a chamber filled with liquid in communication with a liquid flow line, a rotary shaft extending through the chamber to support a valve device adjacent to the liquid flow line and to move the valve device to open a relief-air flow channel to relieve increased suction caused by inlet blockage, and a piston on the rotary shaft responsive to suction increases within the liquid flow line and chamber to actuate shaft rotation. The valve device, chamber and relief-air flow channel are configured and arranged to cause a spurt of liquid from the chamber into the inlet while the valve device is moving from its isolating position toward its opening position upon inlet blockage, whereby the spurt of liquid pushes the blockage away from the inlet and the relief air reduces the suction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventors: Dieter J. Rief, Hans Schlitzer, Manuela Rief
  • Patent number: 8667981
    Abstract: An outer valve surrounds an inner valve. A plug can move relative to a seat of the inner valve to control flow through that valve. A plug co-operates with the outlet port of the outer valve to control fluid through that valve. The plug comprises part of the inner valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Krones AG
    Inventor: Jens Termansen
  • Patent number: 8616231
    Abstract: A valve device for a compressed air supply system, includes a control chamber to which compressed air may be supplied, a control piston plate delimiting the control chamber, a control piston that is fixed to the side of the control piston plate facing away from the control chamber. The piston protrudes into a discharge valve chamber of a discharge valve, provided with at least one compressed air connection. A valve head delimits the discharge valve chamber, which can be pressurized with the force of a spring in the direction of a valve seat and which can be lifted from the valve seat by the control piston counter to the force of the spring in order to open the discharge valve. The control piston and a valve housing surrounding the control piston define at least two regeneration valve chambers of a regeneration valve having at least one compressed air connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: KNORR-BREMSE Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventor: Eduard Hilberer
  • Patent number: 8534321
    Abstract: According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a stopcock including a housing element defining at least first, second and third ports, a handle element which is selectably positionable relative to the housing element, at least one fluid passageway communicating between at least two of the at least first, second and third ports, the at least one fluid passageway being selectably defined by at least one of the housing element and the handle element, the at least one fluid passageway being configured for enabling flushing an internal volume of at least one of the first, second and third ports by a fluid flow which does not flow entirely through the port whose internal volume is being flushed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Elcam Medical Agricultural Cooperative Association Ltd.
    Inventors: David Ziv, Tomer Gil
  • Patent number: 8430112
    Abstract: The invention can provide or facilitate systems and methods for feeding a slurry and, in particular, to systems and methods for treating wastewater streams with a slurry having periodic flushing of conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Frank Matheis, James Paul Harshman, Michael Sumner Murphy
  • Patent number: 8348634
    Abstract: A device for processing compressed air for a commercial vehicle is provided. The device includes an inlet connection for connecting a compressor, an air dryer unit, a first solenoid valve for pneumatically shutting off the compressor and blocking a pipe that is connected to the compressor, and a second solenoid valve for controlling a backflow of air to regenerate the air filter unit. Loss of compressed air during regeneration in the pressure in a pipe located between the compressor and a stop valve upstream of the air filter unit is minimized by exciting the first solenoid valve. Different methods for operating the compressed air processing device are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: KNORR-BREMSE Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Ertl
  • Patent number: 8342199
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing liquid fuel comprises a plurality of inlet valves, each connected in-line with a respective inlet pipe in fluid communication with a respective source of a specific liquid fuel. A plurality of outlet valves are also provided, each connected in-line with a respective outlet pipe. A respective fuel hose is in fluid communication with each of the outlet pipes. The apparatus further comprises a coriolis flow meter located between the inlet valves and outlet valves, the coriolis flow meter providing a flow signal indicative of flow therethrough. A controller is operative to receive the flow signal and control the valves such that selected inputs of specific liquid fuels are dispensed to at least one of the fuel hoses. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, the selected inputs of specific liquid fuels may include individual liquid fuels and blended combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Gilbarco, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan E. Deline, Ryan C. Garrett, Michael C. Liebal, Edward Payne, Brent K. Price, Rodger K. Williams, Zhou Yang
  • Patent number: 8104496
    Abstract: A reverse flow back pressure pump that enables liquid to flow in a reverse direction in plumbing fixtures in order to loosen and discharge sediment freed during the reverse flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventors: Bryan Washington, Bernard Thompson
  • Patent number: 7984730
    Abstract: According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a stopcock including a housing element defining at least first, second and third ports, a handle element which is selectably positionable relative to the housing element, at least one fluid passageway communicating between at least two of the at least first, second and third ports, the at least one fluid passageway being selectably defined by at least one of the housing element and the handle element, the at least one fluid passageway being configured for enabling flushing an internal volume of at least one of the first, second and third ports by a fluid flow which does not flow entirely through the port whose internal volume is being flushed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Elcam Medical Agricultural Cooperative Association
    Inventors: David Ziv, Tomer Gil
  • Patent number: 7063098
    Abstract: Specifically, the present invention is a flush cartridge apparatus used in the controlled removal of accumulated debris from a water distribution system used within a residential and/or commercial structure. The flush cartridge apparatus is generally cylindrically shaped and is designed for sealed engagement within a plumbing valve housing, including pressure balance valves and mixing valves, to provide a long, sustained and complete flushing of water and debris from the water distribution system, while generally preventing water damage, and the occurrence of mold and/or mildew, within the structure. The flush cartridge apparatus can be used alone or in combination with other plumbing tools depending upon the specific need. The flush cartridge apparatus includes alignment and mating features for improved control and safety while using the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Inventor: Gerald L. Sprague
  • Publication number: 20040261849
    Abstract: Specifically, the present invention is a flush cartridge apparatus used in the controlled removal of accumulated debris from a water distribution system used within a residential and/or commercial structure. The flush cartridge apparatus is generally cylindrically shaped and is designed for sealed engagement within a plumbing valve housing, including pressure balance valves and mixing valves, to provide a long, sustained and complete flushing of water and debris from the water distribution system, while generally preventing water damage, and the occurrence of mold and/or mildew, within the structure. The flush cartridge apparatus can be used alone or in combination with other plumbing tools depending upon the specific need. The flush cartridge apparatus includes alignment and mating features for improved control and safety while using the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Gerald L. Sprague
  • Patent number: 6832621
    Abstract: A ball valve assembly of the quarter-turn type for use in isolating an electronic level transmitter comprising a valve body having an inner chamber, an inlet or tank-side port, an outlet or transmitter side port, a valve body axis defined by the inlet and outlet ports, and a substantially spherical ball valve member having an inner surface forming a through passage mounted in the chamber for selective rotation between an open position and a closed position. The present invention allows for flushing the diaphragm face of a level transmitter with the ball valve member in an open position via a purge port positioned on the valve body and a purge passage connecting the through passage and a seating face portion of the outer surface of the ball valve member. The present invention is provided with a full port opening through the ball valve assembly for enhancing the accuracy of level transmitter readings and valve backflush capabilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Trans-Valve, Inc.
    Inventor: Archie Mack Williams
  • Publication number: 20040200528
    Abstract: In a pressure reducer with an inlet pressure chamber with a cylindrical dirt trap dividing the inlet pressure chamber into an inlet-side sub-chamber and a control valve-side sub-chamber, there are backflow means (74) for generating a backflow through the dirt trap from the control valve-side sub-chamber provided within the inlet-side sub-chamber adjacent to the dirt trap. Such backflow means are provided with an annular body with an annular chamber, wherein the annular body is on the outside sealingly guided in a housing of the pressure reducer by two spaced apart sealing rings which surround the dirt trap. The annular body is provided with axially projecting sucking ribs adjacent to the dirt trap and open towards the dirt trap which are connected to the annular chamnber of the annular body. The annular body is rotatable about the dirt trap. The annular chamber can be connected to an outlet by a stop valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventor: Willi Hecking
  • Patent number: 6681792
    Abstract: A multiple opening sleeve valve is provided with a gate movable to control flow or pressure without the need for axial movement of a component through a pressure-containing seal. A gate actuator can include a drive rod and nut coupled to a gate substantially internal to the valve housing without the need for grease or similar external lubrication. The valve can provide for relatively high in-line gate-moving force, a reduction in force or torque requirements for operation, increased ease of wear-part replacement and decreased overall valve length, compared to previous valve configurations of comparable size or capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Core Industries
    Inventors: John Edward, Brad Matejek, Erick Maitre, Eric Brewer
  • Patent number: 6427715
    Abstract: A connector for an RV sewage holding tank includes a water inlet and a rotatable valve connected thereto. The valve has a plurality of positions and a spherical nozzle on the valve allows manual rotation whereby fresh water can be directed towards the holding tank for cleaning and dislodging debris contained therein. By rotating the nozzle to a rearward direction a stream of water can then be directed towards the sewage line for cleaning and draining debris or the like. The connector is molded from plastic, is lightweight and easy to use without tools or detailed training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Camco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: William T. Brockington, Anthony D. Moore
  • Patent number: 6336468
    Abstract: A supply tube isolation system for use with a chemical delivery system includes a feedback tube connected between the manifold and each of the supply tubes connected between the chemical supply containers and the chemical pumps of the chemical delivery system. A controllable valve means is provided at or near the junction of the feedback tube and the supply tube so as to effectively segment the supply tube into first and second portions, where the first supply tube portion is that which is connected between the valve means and the manifold, and the second tube portion is that which is connected between the valve means and the chemical supply container. During delivery of the chemical to one or more destinations within the delivery system, the valve means is positioned so as to close the feedback tube and connect the first and second portions of the supply tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Assignee: Diverseylever, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert G. Cords
  • Patent number: 6314981
    Abstract: Process and device for connecting at least one supply reservoir (A), such as a storage reservoir, to at least one receiving reservoir (B), such as a tank truck, for the transfer of a fluid from the at least one supply reservoir (A) to the least one receiving reservoir (B) comprising at least one transfer line (2) for fluid comprising at least one first member (3) for connection to the receiving reservoir (B); a valve (V2) for connection to the atmosphere connected to the transfer line (2); and an analyzer (10) connected to the transfer line (2) particularly to monitor continuously during the transfer the purity of the transferred fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Jean Mayzou, Paul Jullien, Pierre Marnas, Robert Wallez
  • Patent number: 6213450
    Abstract: The invention provides a valve 10,30 for connecting first and second conduits 12,14. The valve 10,30 comprises; a valve member 16 rotatably mounted in a housing 18, to define a space 22 between the valve member 16 and the housing 18; and inflatable seal means 20,32, operable to provide a seal between the valve member 16 and the housing 18. The invention further provides a valve assembly 40 for connecting first and second conduits 12,14. The assembly 40 comprises: a valve member 16 movably mounted in a housing 18, to define a space 22 between the valve member 16 and the housing 18; inflatable seal means 20,32, operable to provide a seal between the valve member 16 and the housing 18; and an air inlet controller 42 for supplying compressed air into the space 22, for driving a pig 44 along the conduits 12,14. The invention also provides methods of cleaning the valve 10,30 and assembly 40 in situ by in-line fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Hygienic Pigging Systems Limited
    Inventor: Thomas Palmer
  • Patent number: 6209570
    Abstract: An automatic flush water distribution system for use in an evaporative cooling system includes a water distribution pipe adapted to be connected to a source of pressurized water. The pipe has a plurality of water distribution ports formed therein and a vertical flush pipe is connected at a first end to the water distribution pipe in liquid communication therewith. The flush pipe includes a second lower end and contains at least one valve seat and at least one buoyant float valve located therein between the valve seat and the water distribution pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Munters Corporation
    Inventor: Frederick B. DeBello
  • Patent number: 6132203
    Abstract: Disclosed is an oil burning system that is capable of burning oils of varying viscosities, including high viscosity waste oils and low viscosity heating oils. Suitable as a new installation or a retrofit modification, the present invention incorporates the use of a variable rate, high-pressure oil delivery system, along with an oil pre-heater, in conjunction with a modified high-pressure atomizing nozzle. Installed in a sliding drawer burner arrangement that allows for quick and easy access, the oil burning system also includes a means by which particulate matter and carbonization build-ups are removed from the burner nozzle automatically, thereby eliminating the need for frequent cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Radek Masin
  • Patent number: 6119726
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for effecting transfer of fluid from any one of a plurality of fluid sources to single fluid outlet. The apparatus comprises a valve head having (i) a bore longitudinally extending therethrough, (ii) a plurality of radially extending fluid channels, each channel having an inlet in fluid communication with a corresponding fluid source and an outlet in communication with the bore, and (iii) a valve head fluid outlet in communication with the bore, a valve stem movably disposed within the bore of the valve head, the valve stem having an axially extending fluid channel that has a fluid outlet in communication with the valve head fluid outlet and a fluid inlet, and a valve control system for effecting rotation and axial displacement of the valve stem so as to effect or terminate fluid communication between the valve stem fluid inlet and a fluid outlet of any one of the radially extending fluid channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Warner Instrument Corporation
    Inventors: Nigel Cox, John Keeler
  • Patent number: 6000417
    Abstract: A check valve is described which employs a magnetic biasing component, disposed external to the valve body, to exert force on a poppet, at least a portion of which is ferrous. In a "normal" mode of operation, the poppet is urged against the inlet end surface of the cavity by the basing component, and moves away from the inlet end surface of the cavity to permit fluid flow from an inlet port to an outlet (downstream) port once a differential cracking pressure is achieved. In a "bidirectional" or "purge" mode of operation, the biasing component is positioned adjacent the outlet end of the valve body to retain the poppet in an open position, away from the inlet end surface of the cavity. The bi-directional capability of the disclosed check valve is beneficial for welded installation and cyclic purging of systems, and allows for a full vacuum to be achieved because the effect of cracking pressure is eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventor: Richard R. Jacobs
  • Patent number: 5975111
    Abstract: A waste tank clog removal system is provided for removing clogs during draining of a waste tank through a drain line. This system removes the clog by flushing the clog back into the waste tank. A bypass valve and a hose assembly are added to an existing waste tank drain and rinse system. The hose assembly is connected to the bypass valve and routed to the drain line, between a ball valve and a drain valve. When clogging occurs, the bypass valve is rotated to a bypass position, the drain valve is closed, and rinse fluid fills the drain line to push the clog back into the waste tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Thomas J. Galantowicz, Eric J. Essman, Jon A. Feroy
  • Patent number: 5957152
    Abstract: A purge valve for use with a chemical select valve comprises, in a preferred embodiment, an enlarged chamber in the vacuum impelled feed line to the select valve. The chamber is formed by resilient walls, collapsible upon vacuum operation to draw chemical into a venturi line where it is mixed with water and dispensed. The walls do not fully collapse and provide passages for chemical flow. Upon vacuum interruption, the chamber walls expand, returning the chamber to its larger volume and drawing chemical back upstream from common passages in the select valve. Another chemical can then be selected without contamination of the preceding chemical in the common passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: Hydro Systems Company
    Inventor: Mark D. Dalhart
  • Patent number: 5797421
    Abstract: A siphon jet is attached to a dry hydrant which is in communication with a body of water to increase the flow of fluid to the dry hydrant and assist in overcoming the effects of atmospheric pressure and gravity in drawing the water. A pressurized fluid source can add fluid to the siphon assembly and this forces water from the body up the hydrant pipe. Also, the fluid from the pressurized fluid source can be added forward of a valve to fill the hydrant pipe which thus minimizes the duration of priming operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: Schlumberger Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanley Leo Merrett
  • Patent number: 5657786
    Abstract: A gas cabinet manifold is free of dead-legs both during delivery of process gas to a semiconductor fabrication tool location and during purging of the manifold. The manifold includes three similar dual valve assembly blocks. Each valve assembly block includes two valves and each of the valves has a valve chamber in which are formed three ports. Each valve also includes a mechanism for selectively closing one of its three ports. Each of the valves has one of its non-closeable ports connected via a conduit to a corresponding non-closeable port of the other valve, and the other non-closeable ports are connected by a second conduit which is connected by a third conduit to a port by which gas may be introduced into the valve block. A vacuum venturi or other vacuum source is used to vent process gas from a high pressure area of the manifold by way of a pressure regulator and a low pressure area of the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignees: SCI Systems, Inc., BOC Group, Inc. (The)
    Inventors: Ronald R. DuRoss, William K. Tucker
  • Patent number: 5601107
    Abstract: A process gas supply system at the gas supply point includes an automated means for evacuating gas in a process line fed by the process gas supply system when an abnormal event occurs. The process gas supply system of this invention eliminates the need for any special valves or piping at the point of use of the process gas as well as the need for a return line from the point of use to the process gas supply system to purge the process line. A process gas is contained in a cylinder under pressure. The cylinder is coupled to a process line by the process gas supply system. The process gas supply system includes a gas flow controller and an automatic evacuation system. The gas flow controller controls the supply of the process gas from the cylinder to the process line. In an abnormal event, process gas flow from the cylinder is blocked by the gas flow controller and the automatic evacuation system evacuates the process gas not only from the gas flow controller, but also from the process line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Assignee: Moore Epitaxial, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary M. Moore, Richard S. Pairish
  • Patent number: 5588459
    Abstract: A sewage removal device for use with a recreational vehicle. The device is comprised of a housing attachable to the sewage drain conduit of the recreational vehicle. Sewage from the recreational vehicle drains into a cavity in the housing, and a water inlet directs a stream of water through a nozzle into an outlet conduit in the housing. The water stream facilitates removal of sewage as the sewage drains from the recreational vehicle into the cavity of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Inventor: Mark E. Ellis
  • Patent number: 5584314
    Abstract: The invention provides a self-cleaning inlet head for a fluid, operable in a first, draining, mode and in a second, backflushing, mode, including a body having a front end and a rear end; a piston slidably mounted in the body and having having a front face and a rear face; a first space extending between the rear end of the body and the rear face of the piston and a second space extending between the front face of the piston and the front end of the body; a bore connecting the first space and the second space; a valve mounted in the first space for closing off the bore during the second mode of operation; an aperture for access of the fluid from outside the head into the second space in the first mode of operation, and for exit from the second space in the second mode of operation, wherein, at the onset of the second mode of operation, the valve closes off the bore and subsequently moves the piston, thereby initiating a mechanical shearing action loosening any occluding matter in the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Inventor: Dan Bron
  • Patent number: 5509437
    Abstract: A dry (unpressurized) hydrant utilizes a hydrant pipe wherein a submerged end carrying a strainer assembly is placed at a predetermined depth within a body of water, such as a lake or a pond, with the unsubmerged end being located above ground adjacent the water surface. A check valve installed behind the underwater strainer allows the pipe to be filled with water delivered from a tank onboard a pumper truck. Flooding the pipe in this manner allows the pumper truck to then pump water from the lake or pond, through the hydrant, with little or no priming necessary so as to meet fire suppression demands. A vent valve located on the pumper intake connected to the unsubmerged end allows air to escape from the pipe during the filling process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: Schlumberger Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanley L. Merrett
  • Patent number: 5417728
    Abstract: A gas valve which has provision for a reverse flow pulse of high pressure gas. The valve includes a reservoir which is loaded with high pressure gas during normal operation which is released into the main flow path by an applied pressure reduction. The valve is fitted to a porous ceramic "candle" filter between dirty and clean gas zones. The high pressure gas pulse reverses flow through the filter and blows off any aggregated dirt. A shut-off valve is arranged to shut the valve in the event the ceramic filter breaks. The valve is efficient and uses only a metered amount of high pressure gas with little loss of pressure between supply and flushing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Assignee: European Gas Turbines Limited
    Inventor: Eric E. Royle
  • Patent number: 5398716
    Abstract: An air compressor waste drain valve having an automatic drain hole and a dust collector provided respectively at the center and circumference of the inside base of the drain valve so that the moisture produced by the air compressor can be stored in the dust collecting tank of a dust collector and the dust produced by the air compressor can pass through an overflow port of a hollow cover plate. After the moisture has accumulated to a sufficient level, the water will be drained automatically through the drain hole and the accumulated dust can be drained for collection by means of opening the valve, so as to achieve the respective drainage effort for water and dust.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Inventor: Chia-Tsung Hsu
  • Patent number: 5353990
    Abstract: A flow controlled dispenser adds liquid additives at a rate proportional to the flow of the liquid receiving the additives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Inventor: Richard Williams
  • Patent number: 5246168
    Abstract: A flow controlled dispenser adds liquid additives at a rate proportional to the flow of the liquid receiving the additives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Inventor: Richard Williams
  • Patent number: 5178684
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus are disclosed for cleaning water pipe. The pipe is preferably connected to a source of water which normally flows through the pipe to an outlet. A valve is positioned at the outlet and is rapidly opened and closed. When the valve is closed a pressure pulse is created in the pipe and travels towards the source of fluid. This wave is reflected back from the source towards the outlet. The alternate waves expand and contract the pipe wall, and cause pressure fluctuations within the pipe. The combined action removes scale from the wall of the pipe, and when the valve is opened the removed scale passes out of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1993
    Inventor: Danny T. Hutchins, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5042522
    Abstract: A backflushing system for an inlet filter in an airway adapter in a gas flow sampling and analyzing system includes a back flush fluid supply conduit and sampling conduit connected to the airway adapter by a single coupling element. Flow of back flush fluid causes material blocking the filter to be washed away into the respiratory conduit for disposal. Flow of backflush fluid is restricted to one way flow through the backflush conduit by a disk shaped valve member mounted in the air way adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Assignee: Nellcor, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Corenman, Daniel S. Goldberger, Edward M. Richards, Emil P. Rojas, James R. Braig, David A. Gallup
  • Patent number: 4573492
    Abstract: A discharge control valve wherein the inside of a valve casing is partitioned by a pair of horizontal upper and lower partition walls into an upper chamber, an inlet chamber with an inlet port and an outlet chamber with an outlet port in the order named, and a hollow cylindrical valve body is provided which has opened upper and lower ends, penetrates both partition walls and is capable of vertically moving within said three chambers. An upper half portion of said valve body is made a shutter portion and a lower half portion thereof is made a discharge control portion with a number of small holes perforated in its peripheral wall. The height of both portions are made slightly higher than the height of the inlet chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1986
    Assignee: Kurimoto, Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshiharu Tadokoro
  • Patent number: 4563312
    Abstract: A gas supply apparatus for supplying gaseous raw material of an article to a processing apparatus, including at least one main vessel for storing liquid raw material of the article and supplying the gaseous raw material to the processing apparatus, an auxiliary vessel for storing liquid raw material replenishment for the liquid raw material, a main pipe for delivering the liquid raw material replenishment to the main vessel, a return pipe branched form the main pipe, first and second control valves, and a feed device for feeding, through the main pipe, the liquid raw material replenishment to the main vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1984
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1986
    Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroaki Takimoto, Tetsuo Miyajiri, Kiminobu Yoshida, Tamio Turita
  • Patent number: 4517824
    Abstract: A solvent dumping apparatus is described having an inlet enclosure coupled to the inlet of a detector and an outlet enclosure coupled to the outlet of a detector. Venting means are provided for both enclosures, one of which is controllable; means are provided for introducing sample gas into the inlet enclosure; and means are provided for introducing gas into the outlet enclosure. During a detection mode, at least one of the venting means is so adjusted as to cause sample gas to flow through the detector and out the venting means for the outlet enclosure, and during a diversionary mode, at least one of the venting means is so adjusted as to cause the gas introduced into the outlet enclosure to pass back through the detector and carry any sample gas out through the venting means for the inlet enclosure. In preferred forms of the invention, one of the venting means is a back pressure regulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1985
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Company
    Inventor: Bruce D. Quimby
  • Patent number: 4508138
    Abstract: A polyjet valve has an inlet opening into an inlet chamber normally communicating through a movable polyjet sleeve in variable amounts and in one direction with an outlet chamber having an outlet. There is a block to close the outlet and a conduit to establish backflow from the outlet chamber through the polyjet sleeve in the reverse direction and then to waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1985
    Assignee: Chas. M. Bailey Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Dixon
  • Patent number: 4442859
    Abstract: A valve which controls either the injection of fluid from an exterior source into the interior of the valve housing or the exhausting of fluid pressure from the valve housing. The valve is especially adapted for controlling the injection of fluid into a wireline lubricator assembly. Alternative means are provided for opening and closing the valve. Preferably a metal-to-metal seal is used to control fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1981
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1984
    Assignee: Otis Engineering Corporation
    Inventor: Ernest B. Gentry
  • Patent number: 4390049
    Abstract: A portable air-operated apparatus for cleaning, flushing, and filling a liquid cooling system of an internal combustion engine. The cooling system is cleaned by sequentially moving liquid in opposite directions in the cooling system. The apparatus also functions to pressure check the cooling system for leaks, to flush the cooling system of cleaning liquid and foreign matter, and filling the cooling system with new coolant liquid. The apparatus has an air-operated reciprocating piston pump assembly operable to agitate or sequentially move liquid in opposite directions and pump liquid into the cooling system. The pump assembly delivers the liquid to a manifold connected to an input hose coupled to the liquid cooling system. A control valve connected to the manifold is operable to direct an external source of liquid under pressure to the manifold or connect a reservoir carried by the apparatus to the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1980
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1983
    Inventor: Robert V. Albertson