Convertible Patents (Class 137/269)
  • Patent number: 6708720
    Abstract: A valve actuator adaptor attaches a rotary valve whose mounting is in accordance with ISO 5211/DIN 3337 to a rotary actuator whose mounting is not in accordance with ISO 5211/DIN 3337. The adaptor has first and second mounting surfaces to which the valve head and the actuator are respectively secured and a coupling link extends through the body of the adaptor to interconnect the actuator drive shaft and the valve stem. The adaptor has holes which extend from the first mounting surface to an exposed surface intermediate along the axial length of the actuator. That exposed surface is formed by recesses in the body of the actuator and by partial flanges. Screws or bolts then pass through those holes to the adapter to the valve head, the exposed surface having recesses therein, which recesses are shaped to receive the heads of the screws or bolts, or nuts on the bolts, to prevent them rotating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Kinetrol Limited
    Inventor: Roger C. Chapman
  • Publication number: 20040011879
    Abstract: A cartridge intended for insertion in a sanitary fitting contains a control disk rotated with respect to a fixed distributor disk. The cartridge contains a thermostatic valve. The disk control formed by the two disks constitutes both a quantity control and a switching device between at least two and preferably three outlets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Werner Lorch
  • Publication number: 20040003845
    Abstract: A metering and pressure reduction piping system is prefabricated with backbone piping supported by a frame and a plurality of spool pieces that are interchanged at the site with selected metering and valve sections. The interchangeable piping sections having a common length and are connectable to the backbone piping via standardized interface flanges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Publication date: January 8, 2004
    Applicant: TRIGEN BOSTON ENERGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Raymond Biszko
  • Patent number: 6668851
    Abstract: A plug for plugging a first port and blocking insertion of a second plug into a second port of a fluid system. The plug includes a threaded plug portion and a blocking stem portion extending from the threaded plug portion. The stem portion projects into the second port and blocks insertion or mounting of a second plug and thereby keeps the second port unplugged. In a disclosed embodiment, the plug is mounted into the return port of an oil pump unit of an oil burner to block bypassed flow from returning to the local reservoir of the oil pump unit. This prevents two plugs from being inadvertently mounted that could otherwise block all bypass flow in the pump unit and cause excess pressure build ups and blown seals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Suntec Industries Incorporated
    Inventors: Dale L. Hunsberger, Jack A. Price
  • Patent number: 6659131
    Abstract: A system and method for integrating gas components that combines together, either in an in-line or modular fashion, at least two gas components used in a gas stick for flowing a gas from a first point to an end point. In one embodiment, the present invention can be used to combine a pressure transducer, a filter, and a display into a single unit that will reduce the gas stick size along the gas flow axis of the gas stick. The gas components can be integrated using VCR connections for an in-line use of the present invention. In the modular form, the present invention can use a number of different connections to connect the gas components vertically on a modular base block (i.e., stacked approximately perpendicular to the modular base block). Thus, the gas components will stack vertically with respect to the traditional horizontal gas flow path axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Mykrolis Corporation
    Inventor: Christ A. Tsourides
  • Patent number: 6655750
    Abstract: A combination valve assembly provides dual functionality within a single valve housing. In one example, the valve operates as a combination inversion valve and quick release valve. In another example, the combination valve operates as an inversion valve and a relay valve. The valve is particularly useful for controlling the operation of a spring applied, air release brake actuator in a heavy vehicle braking arrangement. A valve designed according to this invention preferably also provides anti-compounding features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Meritor WABCO Vehicle Control Systems
    Inventor: Thomas R. Soupal
  • Patent number: 6655413
    Abstract: A method and device for pressure testing a pipe line is provided wherein a fitting is inserted into the pipeline by inserting male ends of the pipeline into female ends of the fitting to define a flow path through the fitting extending along a longitudinal axis. The fitting has an internal boss extending around a circumference of the flow path and extending radially inward toward the centerline a distance corresponding to the wall thickness of the mating male ends of the pipes so the pipes and boss define a periphery of the flow path through the fitting. A recess is formed in the boss to sequentially receive two slides. An externally accessible port allows a test slide to be inserted into the recess, with the test slide sealing against the walls defining the recess to form a fluid-tight seal for pressure testing the line. The test slide is removed and a finish slide is inserted into the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Securus, Inc.
    Inventors: Duane R. Condon, Thomas L. Kendall, Larry D. Brown, Scott W. Randolph, Dennis L. Hart
  • Patent number: 6651692
    Abstract: A modular oxygen supply system is provided comprising at least one module skeleton with a baseplate with frames arranged in parallel to one another. The system includes supply lines for ambient air with air connections for taking off the air, first gas lines for oxygen with first gas connections for taking up the oxygen and second gas lines for outgoing air with second gas connections for taking up outgoing air. Rack guides with data lines are provided. At least one individual module can be pushed into the module skeleton. Each individual module has at least one molecular sieve container fastened on a baseplate with the gas connections and with an electric contact. Each individual module has a gas treatment unit for the ambient air fed in. A pressure reducer and a multiple-way valve as well as an oxygen reservoir are arranged downstream of the molecular sieve container or containers connected in parallel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Dräger Aerospace GmbH
    Inventors: Rüdiger Meckes, Herbert Meier, Wolfgang Rittner
  • Patent number: 6651691
    Abstract: Universal valve mounting device for mounting a variety of valve actuators to a variety of valves is disclosed. The universal valve mounting device includes a mounting plate and a valve actuator fastener provided on the mounting plate. A valve mounting fastener is likewise provided on the mounting plate, and the mounting plate is configured for securing a variety of valves to a respective variety of valve actuators each having a variety of valve mounting plate fasteners locations. The mounting plate may include a bend configured for creating a thermal break for providing air flow between an actuator mounted to the mounting plate and the mounting plate. A slot may likewise be provided on the mounting plate that is of sufficient size and length to accommodate various sizes and spacing of fasteners for securing a mounting plate to a variety of valve actuators, in use. The bend may include a leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: John Scott Phipps
  • Patent number: 6637725
    Abstract: A single service package coupling and valve includes a fitment having a spout and a sliding tubular valve member mounted therein for receiving a cooperating dispensing connector of a liquid distributing and dispensing system, and an external adapter ring designed to cooperate with the mounting mechanisms of a plurality of conventional commercially available dispensing connectors. An internal adapter sleeve is mounted with in the sliding tubular valve member to provide a tight seal with any of the conventional dispensing connectors. The external adapter ring is provided with a pair of radially extending flanges adapted to accept and position different dispensing connectors. At least one of the radially extending flanges is provided with at least two wings to engage a threaded mounting collar of a service line connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Liqui-Box Corporation
    Inventors: Samuel N. Davis, James W. Johnson, Kevin Bergenthun, Timothy Frasier
  • Publication number: 20030192591
    Abstract: A gas conversion assembly generally has a gas inlet and a gas outlet. The assembly includes a control mechanism for regulating the flow of gas from the inlet to the outlet. The control mechanism is constructed and arranged to adjust from regulating the flow of a first gas to regulating the flow of a second gas. The control mechanism has an actuator for switching the control mechanism from its first arrangement for regulating a first gas to its second arrangement for regulating a second gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Inventor: Andrew T. Strom
  • Publication number: 20030168099
    Abstract: A canister vent valve mounting structure for a canister vent valve is configured to prevent center deviation when the canister vent valve is connected to the canister and enables the canister to be shared by different vehicle models. The canister vent valve includes a connecting pipe part that fits into an insertion hole formed in the canister. Several mating projections are arranged in the circumferential direction of the connecting pipe part such that they are formed on the outside circumference of the connecting pipe part near the tip thereof. Several notches into which mating projections can be inserted are formed in the inside circumferential surface of the insertion hole. The canister vent valve mounting structure between the canister and the canister vent valve is configured and arranged to retain the canister vent valve in at least two different orientations relative to the canister.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Applicant: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideyuki Matsushima, Takayuki Iwasaki
  • Patent number: 6604542
    Abstract: A modular EGR valve includes an actuator subassembly and a metering subassembly. The metering subassembly defines a metering port and a metering chamber. The metering port and the metering chamber have a predetermined relative configuration. The metering subassembly is configured for being coupled to the actuator subassembly and for being coupled to an engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Raul A. Bircann, Dwight O. Palmer
  • Patent number: 6604538
    Abstract: An improved adjustable fluid flow regulator having a regulator chamber, a moveable diaphragm within the regulator chamber, a spring that acts upon the diaphragm to regulate the flow of fluid, and a first adjustment member and second adjustment member for adjustably biasing the spring against the diaphragm. The improvement includes a tamper resistant feature for restricting adjustment above a predetermined limit. The first adjustment member is fully adjusted to a limit. The second adjustment member is adjusted to bias the spring to a predetermined maximum setting, and restricted from further adjustment. The first adjustment member would subsequently be adjustable to any setting up to the predetermined limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: John A. Schmotzer, Wilfred G. Soutiea, John J. Love, Mike C. Santinanavat
  • Patent number: 6601604
    Abstract: This invention provides for a valve system for use in fire suppression systems that provides pressure relief, pressure testing, and drain/test fluid flow capability. The valve system consists of a valve body with an attached riser. Adjustably attached to the riser is a rotary handle for raising and lowering a spring loaded valve stem. A blocking plug is provided for attachment to the handle which operates to block the movement of the valve stem during pressure testing of the fire suppression system. A tension disk is adjustably attached to the inside of the riser to manually adjust the spring tension. In addition, a means is provided for preventing system fluid from contacting the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: Michael S. Cooper
  • Patent number: 6591854
    Abstract: A burst disk assembly has a burst disk which is interposed within the high pressure relief vent of a superconducting magnet. The burst disk is a composite design constructed of a solid carbon graphite center surrounded by an integrally formed stainless steel ring. A captured burst disk flange insures proper placement and seating of the burst disk during replacement and supports the burst disk so as to prevent it from falling or dropping out of the assembly during replacement of the ruptured burst disk. A deformable gasket contiguous to the burst disk seals the burst disk to the captured burst disk flange when the disk and the flange are pressed together. Attachment bolts are used to provide even application of pressure along the face of the burst disk and the captured burst disk flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLC
    Inventors: David R. Turner, Daniel C. Woods, Jerry Butler, Daniel Molumby, Lawrence V. Bischke, Wayne Cooke, Christopher G. King, Mehdi Kaveh
  • Patent number: 6532991
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an air compressor assembly including a handle assembly capable of assuming a plurality of positions. In a first aspect of the present invention, an air compressor assembly includes an air reservoir suitable for storing compressed air, the reservoir having a first side portion and a second side portion. A handle assembly is disposed on the air reservoir, the handle assembly capable of attaining a first position and a second position, wherein the second position generally aligns the handle assembly at least partially along at least one of the first and second side portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: DeVilbiss Air Power Company
    Inventors: Mark W. Wood, Crandall B. Barbour, David W. Robenalt
  • Patent number: 6532990
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an air compressor assembly including a lifting handle. An air compressor assembly suitable for lifting includes an air reservoir suitable for storing compressed air under pressure, the reservoir having a front-end portion, a rearward portion, a first side portion, and a second side portion. A lift handle assembly suitable for use in lifting the air compressor assembly is at least partially disposed on at least one of the first and second side portions. In an additional aspect of the present invention, an air compressor assembly suitable for lifting includes an air reservoir suitable for storing compressed air having a first end portion and a second end portion. A wheel assembly suitable for transporting the air compressor assembly is disposed on the second end portion of the air reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: DeVilbiss Air Power Company
    Inventors: Mark W. Wood, Robert F. Burkholder, Crandall B. Barbour, Mike L. Davis, Fred M. Morgan, David W. Robenalt, Dave C. Smith
  • Publication number: 20030010382
    Abstract: A modular oxygen supply system is provided comprising at least one module skeleton with a baseplate with frames arranged in parallel to one another. The system includes supply lines for ambient air with air connections for taking off the air, first gas lines for oxygen with first gas connections for taking up the oxygen and second gas lines for outgoing air with second gas connections for taking up outgoing air. Rack guides with data lines are provided. At least one individual module can be pushed into the module skeleton. Each individual module has at least one molecular sieve container fastened on a baseplate with the gas connections and with an electric contact. Each individual module has a gas treatment unit for the ambient air fed in. A pressure reducer and a multiple-way valve as well as an oxygen reservoir are arranged downstream of the molecular sieve container or containers connected in parallel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventors: Rudiger Meckes, Herbert Meier, Wolfgang Rittner
  • Patent number: 6495103
    Abstract: A modular control block for applications in the field of analytical procedures has a plurality of individual elements (2, 5, 15, 19, 20), each having at least one channel for the inflow and for the outflow of fluids, which can be connected to each other by means of suitable connection points. In order to reduce the manufacturing costs of the control block, all individual elements (2, 5, 15, 19, 20) are embodied with the same outer contour and may be arranged in-line or staggered, with different function modes of the control block being achieved by either an in-line or a staggered arrangement of the individual elements (2, 5, 15, 19, 20), or by any desired combination of individual elements (2, 5, 15, 19, 20) arranged in-line and/or staggered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Burkert Werke GmbH + Co.
    Inventor: Christoph Hettinger
  • Publication number: 20020179875
    Abstract: A single-service package coupling and valve includes a fitment having a spout and a sliding tubular valve member mounted therein for receiving a cooperating dispensing connector of a liquid distributing and dispensing system, and an external adapter ring designed to cooperate with the mounting mechanisms of a plurality of conventional commercially available dispensing connectors. An internal adapter sleeve is mounted with in the sliding tubular valve member to provide a tight seal with any of the conventional dispensing connectors. The external adapter ring is provided with a pair of radially extending flanges adapted to accept and position different dispensing connectors. At least one of the radially extending flanges is provided with at lest two wings to engage a threaded mounting collar of a service line connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Samuel N. Davis, James W. Johnson, Kevin Bergenthun, Timothy Frasier
  • Patent number: 6484742
    Abstract: A cartridge assembly for a valve is disclosed. The cartridge assembly includes a cartridge containing an activation component. The cartridge and activation component are configured to be replaceable as a unit. The activation component prevents the valve from either opening or closing until either a predetermined pressure is exerted on the valve or a predetermined temperature is experienced by the activation component. The cartridge may include any of a variety of activation component types, such as buckling pins, tensile pins, shear pins, springs, or fusible alloys, either individually or in combination to control the valve opening or closing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: BS & B Safety Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Geof Brazier, Arthur Dubbeldam, Peter Dubbeldam
  • Patent number: 6484743
    Abstract: Assemblies for control of fluid flow are described. The assemblies permit angular adjustment of resilient biasing mechanisms through translation of one of their ends along the assembly exteriors. Although the resilient mechanisms normally facilitate covering a bypass inlet so as to close it with a flap, the mechanisms may be latched with the bypass inlet open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Zodiac Pool Care, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Bauckman
  • Publication number: 20020170599
    Abstract: An apparatus for launching pigs is taught that is vertically compact, simple to operate, holds a plurality of pigs and which can accommodate various kinds of pigs. The launching is achieved by gravity. The apparatus for launching pigs includes a housing that can withstand at least the operating pressure of a pipeline, a supply magazine arranged in the housing with at least two pig-holding chambers, said pig-holding chambers being substantially vertical through-holes in the supply magazine, a closeable inlet port through the housing and providing access to the supply magazine, a launching chute connected to the pipeline and positioned beneath, as determined by gravity, the supply magazine, a drive operatively connected to the supply magazine, said drive causing the supply magazine to rotate about a substantially vertical axis and position the holding chamber generally above the launching chute.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventors: Malcolm Murhl Disher, Ronald George Chernuka
  • Patent number: 6478042
    Abstract: A sliding valve having a flow line on which there may be placed a module having flow channel that can be connected and disconnected. The valve avoids the problem of liquid remaining in the flow channel of a first valve component by providing flow channel intersecting segment which intersects both components of the sliding valve so that in a module disconnecting orientation, each valve component defines separate segments of the flow channel while in the connected orientation, the valve components define a single flow channel. The construction allows for liquid flow through the valve independent of the module being in connected or disconnected position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Amersham Pharmacia Biotech AB
    Inventor: Jan Bergström
  • Patent number: 6474456
    Abstract: A hydraulic control apparatus for automatic transmissions, capable of adapting the apparatus to a change in the specifications for a lockup clutch which causes the relationship between the supplying and discharging of a hydraulic pressure for a lockup control operation to be reversed with respect to the connection of oil passages. A valve body of the hydraulic control apparatus is formed by laminating at least two members on each other, and has a valve for regulating a hydraulic pressure supplied to a lockup clutch of a hydraulic transmission unit, a control unit for applying a signal pressure to the pressure regulating valve, a source pressure oil passage for supplying a basic pressure for a pressure regulating operation, and drain oil passage communicated with a drain port. The pressure regulating passage is provided at both sides of a port, which communicates with a lockup oil chamber via an oil passage, with a port communicating with an oil passage, and a port communicating with another oil passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Aisin AW Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akitomo Suzuki, Takayuki Hisano, Masaaki Nishida
  • Publication number: 20020117209
    Abstract: Universal valve mounting device for mounting a variety of valve actuators to a variety of valves is disclosed. The universal valve mounting device includes a mounting plate and a valve actuator fastener provided on the mounting plate. A valve mounting fastener is likewise provided on the mounting plate, and the mounting plate is configured for securing a variety of valves to a respective variety of valve actuators each having a variety of valve mounting plate fasteners locations. The mounting plate may include a bend configured for creating a thermal break for providing air flow between an actuator mounted to the mounting plate and the mounting plate. A slot may likewise be provided on the mounting plate that is of sufficient size and length to accommodate various sizes and spacing of fasteners for securing a mounting plate to a variety of valve actuators, in use. The bend may include a leg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventor: John Scott Phipps
  • Patent number: 6435215
    Abstract: A gas panel for use with a tool for manufacturing a semiconductor includes a one-piece manifold body having an inlet for receiving a process gas. The manifold body has at least one lateral wall extending in the general direction of gas flow. The lateral wall includes at least one active device site having an active device thereon. The active device is in gas communication with a gas carrying path formed within the one-piece manifold. The active device may be a manual valve, a pneumatic valve, a pressure regulator, a pressure transducer, a purifier, a filter or a flow controller. The gas is received from the active device at a continuation of the gas flow path in the manifold body and is conveyed to a manifold outlet for ultimate to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Unit Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric J. Redemann, Kim N. Vu
  • Patent number: 6408866
    Abstract: The invention provides a fluidic oscillator that is symmetrical about a longitudinal plane of symmetry (P), comprising an enclosure defining an oscillation chamber and having an inlet opening and an outlet opening through which the fluid flows and which are in alignment in said plane (P) in a “longitudinal” first direction (A), said inlet opening being made in the form of a slot that is narrow in a second direction (B) extending transversely to said plane (P) and elongate in a third direction (C) parallel to said plane (P) and perpendicular to said longitudinal first direction (A), wherein said slot is provided in an insert which is removable from said enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Schlumberger Industries, S.A.
    Inventors: Andrew Carver, Luc Hernoux
  • Patent number: 6378911
    Abstract: A system of sanitary fittings contains a connecting block having an identical construction for all the fittings and which can be connected to the water pipes of a plumbing system. The connecting block contains a joint face into which issue the through openings, which are connected to the pipe connections. The sanitary fittings are fitted to a functional block, which has a joint face cooperating with the joint face of the connecting block and channels emanating from said joint face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Hansgrohe AG
    Inventor: Klaus Grohe
  • Patent number: 6349744
    Abstract: A gas manifold for a modular gas box system for delivering contaminant-free, precisely metered quantities of process and purge gases to a semiconductor process reaction chamber. The manifold provides the benefit of allowing the use of standard annular gaskets or o-rings for providing seals between the manifold and gas components, such as filters, valves, and pressure transducers and regulators, mounted on the manifold. The manifold includes a surface, a manifold port in the surface, and at least one station in the surface for receiving gas controlling and gas monitoring components. The station includes an inwardly facing side wall extending into the manifold from the surface to a base of the station. The base is divided into a central portion and an outer portion, the central portion having a first station port, and one of the outer portion of the base and the side wall having a second station port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Francis Grosshart
  • Patent number: 6347785
    Abstract: A single-service package coupling and valve includes a fitment having a spout and a sliding tubular valve member mounted therein for receiving a cooperating dispensing connector of a liquid distributing and dispensing system, and an external adapter ring designed to cooperate with the mounting mechanisms of a plurality of conventional commercially available dispensing connectors. An internal adapter sleeve is mounted with in the sliding tubular valve member to provide a tight seal with any of the conventional dispensing connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Liqui-Box Corporation
    Inventors: Donald G. Copp, Samuel N. Davis, James W. Johnson, M. Stephen Tschanen
  • Patent number: 6330890
    Abstract: A nipple (1) is connectable or connected to a system (2) of pressurizable fluid (16). The first rapid-coupling part operates with a dual function in which, in a first function, the first rapid-coupling part can be coupled together with a second rapid-coupling part and in the coupling position of the parts fluid can be drained off to a first apparatus receiving the drained-off fluid and, in a second function, the first rapid-coupling part receives a probe-shaped unit, which is insertable in the first rapid-coupling part, for draining off the fluid to a quality-detecting apparatus or container apparatus; connected to the probe-shaped unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Assignee: Dart Engineering AG
    Inventor: Thure Ekman
  • Publication number: 20010048896
    Abstract: A modular control block for applications in the field of analytical procedures has a plurality of individual elements (2, 5, 15, 19, 20), each having at least one channel for the inflow and for the outflow of fluids, which can be connected to each other by means of suitable connection points. In order to reduce the manufacturing costs of the control block, all individual elements (2, 5, 15, 19, 20) are embodied with the same outer contour and may be arranged in-line or staggered, with different function modes of the control block being achieved by either an in-line or a staggered arrangement of the individual elements (2, 5, 15, 19, 20), or by any desired combination of individual elements (2, 5, 15, 19, 20) arranged in-line and/or staggered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 1998
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventor: CHRISTOPH HETTINGER
  • Patent number: 6325295
    Abstract: A cartridge for a sanitary fitting contains within a cartridge casing a distributor, which can be rotated with the aid of a control grip. A rotation of the distributor leads to a rotation of a rotatable control disk of a disk control, which is replaceably placed in the cartridge casing. By replacing the disk control or only a single disk of the disk control, the valve characteristics can be modified. The cartridge has a compact construction and can be adapted to different functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Hansgrohe AG
    Inventor: Werner Lorch
  • Patent number: 6318409
    Abstract: A system for assembling at least two pressurized fluid control members is made up of an interface to which the control members, which are essentially pneumatic, are fixed. The interface includes fluid pipes connecting their feed and outlet orifices and at least two faces with an angle &agr; between them from 5° to 175° and each of which receives at least one of the control members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: S.A. Defontaine
    Inventors: Jean Bonnefous, Bruno Maraud, Benoît Sagot
  • Publication number: 20010030309
    Abstract: A control valve is provided for controlling fluid flow in industrial systems, such as heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems, having a fluid flow passageway with a cross-sectional shape of an opening such that the fluid flow increases exponentially as valve ball or plug, and is opened and which is relatively simple to manufacturer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Publication date: October 18, 2001
    Inventors: Bengt A. Carlson, Werner A. Buck
  • Patent number: 6302149
    Abstract: A solenoid-valve manifold having a highly convenient feeding mechanism in which a connector for connecting to a power supply and each solenoid valve can be easily connected together and a connection structure can be easily changed in accordance with an increase or decrease in the number of the solenoid valves. For this purpose, a plurality of manifold blocks having two upper and lower fixing grooves at front and rear surfaces thereof are detachably connected together, and a connector holder is fixed to the fixing grooves in such a manner that the fixing position can be freely adjusted. Further, a multipolar connector for connecting to an external power source is attached to the connector holder, a connector base plate having a plurality of distributing connector corresponding to each of the solenoid valves is also attached to the connector holder, and the distribution connectors are each connected to a power-receiving connector of the solenoid valve with a splicer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Hideharu Sato, Takumi Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 6302131
    Abstract: In one preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to a system which includes at least one housing body of a given depth, a mounting flange of a given depth, and at least one cartridge of a given depth. The system may further preferably include trim having dimensions concordant with the common underbody system defined by the housing body, flange and cartridge. A common roughing in depth for the fitting is achieved by the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: American Standard International Inc.
    Inventor: Walter Pitsch
  • Patent number: 6302141
    Abstract: A gas panel comprising a plurality of discreet blocks. The gas panel of the present invention includes a first functional component coupled to a first face of a first block wherein the first face has a first port configuration. A second functional component coupled to a first face of a second block wherein the first face of the second block has the first port configuration and wherein the first functional component is different than the second functional component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Insync Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Markulec, Dennis G. Rex, Richard E. Schuster, Brent D. Elliot
  • Patent number: 6293299
    Abstract: A limiting device for use with a single-handle valve for mixing hot and cold water and for controlling the maximum flow-volume or the maximum temperature of flow through the valve. The device limits the range of motion of the control stem of a single-handle mixing valve. The device comprises a guide template and an insert. The guide template generally defines the range of motion of the control stem, the control stem being positioned within a camming aperture of the guide template, the camming aperture having the same general shape as the range of motion of the control stem. The guide template includes a guide-cover key that prevents any rotary movement of the guide template relative to the single-handle mixing valve, and a guide-insert key. The insert further limits the range of motion of the control stem during engagement with the guide template. The insert includes an insert-limiting edge that further reduces the size of the camming aperture during engagement of the insert with the guide template.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventor: Alfred C. Nelson
  • Patent number: 6293310
    Abstract: A gas panel for use with a tool for manufacturing a semiconductor includes a one-piece manifold body having an inlet for receiving a process gas. The manifold body has at least one lateral wall extending in the general direction of gas flow. The lateral wall includes at least one active device site having an active device thereon. The active device is in gas communication with a gas carrying path formed within the one-piece manifold. The active device may be a manual valve, a pneumatic valve, a pressure regulator, a pressure transducer, a purifier, a filter or a flow controller. The gas is received from the active device at a continuation of the gas flow path in the manifold body and is conveyed to a manifold outlet for ultimate to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: Unit Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric J. Redemann, Kim N. Vu
  • Patent number: 6289917
    Abstract: A proportional flow divider valve is configured only as a controlled flow valve by using a first spool in a valve body or as both a free flow valve as well as control flow valve by using a second spool in the valve body. The second spool is provided with a return fluid check valve which is integral therewith and disables the control flow mode when pressure is applied to a piston surface on the return flow check valve. The return flow check valve is configured as a split sleeve which fits around a lateral inlet passage through the second spool and is urged to close the lateral inlet passage under pressure from returning hydraulic fluid. Normally, the split sleeve is axially biased by a vented coil spring to open the lateral inlet passage in the spool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Inventor: Gerald Ross Gerstenberger
  • Patent number: 6269834
    Abstract: An electromagnetically actuatable pneumatic directional control valve having a compressed air network connection, a vent and at least one working connection for a compressed air consuming unit. In order to achieve a modular building-block system with a simpler, more efficient assembly and combination of a number of valves into an integral valve block, a working conduit that leads to the working connection, ventilation conduits and a supply conduit that leads to the vent and the compressed air network connection, the vent, and a valve member that has an actuation magnet and controls the conduits are combined in a valve housing. The connections for the compressed air network and the compressed air consuming unit are disposed in a connecting plate that can be separated from the valve housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Knorr-Bremse
    Inventor: Gerald Huhnen
  • Patent number: 6263919
    Abstract: A sequential mixing cartridge (10), for use with a cold and hot water mixing device, comprises with entry openings (15, 16) for cold water and hot water and with a delivery opening (18) for mixed water. The interior of the body houses a sequential mixing slide valve (19) as well as operating members (25) for this mechanism partially protruding from the body. The shape and outside dimensions of the body as well as the arrangement of the inlet openings for cold water and hot water and for delivery of mixed water substantially match the construction and dimensions of a thermostatic mixing cartridge, thus achieving complete interchangeability with it. The sequential mixing mechanism (19) is preferably constructed to provide a delivery shut-off control member extension (21) for regulating the flow rate. Preferably, the body has inlet openings (15, 16) for cold water and hot water on its outer surface and the delivery opening (18) for mixed water at its axial end that is axially opposite to the control member (25).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventor: Alfons Knapp
  • Publication number: 20010003289
    Abstract: A modular fluid control system is disclosed in which a common fluid manifold is formed by the connection of a required number of identical manifold modules (4). Each manifold module (4) has a valve module (9) connected thereto with connections to receive and return fluid from/to the manifold. In addition, each manifold module (4) includes data/power connectors (36, 37) which allow connection to adjacent manifold modules (4) thereby forming a common power and data bus through the connected manifold modules (4). Each manifold module (4) includes a controller (18) capable of controlling the valve within its connected valve module (9) in accordance with instructions received from a primary controller (16) connected to the data/power bus at one end of the common manifold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 1999
    Publication date: June 14, 2001
    Applicant: John P. DeLuca
    Inventors: MARCUS MEAD, GARY ALAN SHAW, ALAN PAUL ROSS
  • Patent number: 6240955
    Abstract: A liquid level controller is shown having a housing with a rear wall. A shaft has a first end which extends through the rear wall to a liquid displacement member located within a liquid containing vessel. A second end of the shaft joins a pair of oppositely extending arms. Each of the oppositely extending arms is rotationally mounted on the housing generally parallel to the rear wall in a bearing. Vertical forces responsive to changes in liquid level act on the displacement member and are transmitted as a force tending to rotate the oppositely extending arms. A lever pivotally mounted to the housing is interconnected with a torque bar which, in turn, connects to the oppositely extending arms of the shaft. A valving assembly is engaged by the lever to provide an output for controlling liquid level within the vessel. The valve assembly includes a pneumatic pilot with a contact point which is engageable by a pin carried on the lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Anderson Controls, L.C.
    Inventors: R. David Anderson, Carl Wayne Winfrey, Randal Alan Winfrey
  • Patent number: 6240941
    Abstract: A valve is disclosed. The valve includes at least two valve bodies that each have an annular chamber for operably supporting a flow control member. An adjoining member is attached between the valve bodies and houses an adaptor for engaging a portion of each flow control member such that rotation of one flow control member rotates the other flow control member. Each flow control member can engage the adaptor at a plurality of orientations about an actuation axis that extends through the valve. A method for reorienting to interconnected valve bodies relative to each other is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Laars, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven D. Small, Gene L. Pecci
  • Patent number: 6234191
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a railroad car brake manifold adapted to be attached to the pipe brackets on existing railroad cars to provide sufficient pneumatic chambers and channels to perform the required pneumatic logic flow for pneumatic devices attached to the manifold, accomplish pneumatic timing function and provide system stabilization for electronically controlled pneumatic braking systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventor: Bryan J. Clarke
  • Patent number: 6206045
    Abstract: A manifold solenoid valve drive-controlled by serial signals permits extremely easy assembly and easy maintenance, and eliminates a possibility of erroneous wiring. For this purpose, compressed air is supplied and exhausted through manifold blocks 30 on which solenoid valves 20 are mounted and which are consecutively connected, and serial signals are transmitted to the respective solenoid valves. A fluid passage section 31 of the manifold block is provided with common passages 32 and 33 for air supply and exhaust that penetrate the respective manifold blocks 30, and channels 36 through 38 that communicate them with supply/discharge openings of the solenoid valves 20.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Bunya Hayashi, Fumio Morikawa, Katsuhisa Endo