Unit Orientable In A Single Location Between Plural Positions Patents (Class 137/270)
  • Patent number: 8449289
    Abstract: Cooking appliance having an external control panel equipped with one or more regulating valves, where the rotary regulator organ is equipped with various peripheral openings for supplying a flow Q. For the supply of one or another type of gas, NG or LPG, either the control knob or a bezel disk in the external panel are interchangeable on the appliance, being chosen between two different available units, one and the other permitting two different angular position limits A2, A3 of the regulator organ or the supply of a constant flow Qmin through one or another opening with calibrated sections, respectively for NG or LP gas. An appendix in the control knob guided in a slide groove on the control panel of the appliance, or a tongue on the bezel disk stopping the rotation of the control knob, determines the travel limit A2 for the supply of Qmin of NG.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Coprecitec, S.L.
    Inventor: Iñigo Albizuri
  • Patent number: 8393350
    Abstract: Disclosed are an apparatus and methods for introducing additives into a fluid flow. An additive vessel, with chambers for one or more additives, is attached to a primary flow fixture in a configuration that permits a diversion of part of the primary flow through the additive vessel then back to the outlet of the primary flow fixture. When the apparatus is engaged, a part of the primary flow is diverted to the additive vessel, combines with the additive, and then is re-introduced to the fluid stream, exiting the primary flow fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Vidacco International, LLC
    Inventors: Victor A. Chiriac, David E. Bien
  • Patent number: 8328162
    Abstract: A pivotable control valve assembly may be used with a water treatment device in a water treatment system. A pivotable control valve assembly may be pivotable relative to the water treatment device to allow user controls on the pivotable control valve assembly to be oriented in a desired user access position. In a water treatment system including a plurality of water treatment devices, for example, one or more pivotable control valve assemblies may be pivoted such that user controls for each of the water treatment devices are in desired user access positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: R.E. Prescott Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Russell E. Prescott, Perrin T. Prescott
  • Patent number: 8322364
    Abstract: An actuator for operating a valve comprises a housing, a cap, a ring and a piston. The housing has a connecting interface for being mounted on the valve. The cap substantially covers a first portion of the housing. Both the cap and the housing define a substantially enclosed space inside the housing. The ring sealably covers a second portion of the housing. The ring is equipped with two ports that are in fluid communication with the enclosed space. The piston is slidably located inside the housing. Advantageously, an actuator assembly may include the actuator as previously described and one bonnet, one of the connecting interfaces of the actuator being connected to the bonnet. The bonnet is adapted to be mounted to a valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: MBF Stainless Valve Limited
    Inventors: Louis Lacasse, David Balasubramanian
  • Patent number: 8297301
    Abstract: A nozzle device includes a body, a controller and a core set. The controller is pivotally mounted on the body and is pivotable with respect to the body between a first position and a second position. The core set is slideably received in the body. While the controller is in the first position, the core set is slideable in the chamber and is adapted for coupling with a French type valve. While the controller is in the second position, the core set is fixed and is adapted for coupling with an American type valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Scott Wu
  • Patent number: 8261769
    Abstract: A controller and method of using same are disclosed. Preferably, the controller includes a pilot cartridge housing supporting an invertible pilot cartridge assembly (“cartridge”). The cartridge preferably includes a cartridge body supporting a number of pneumatic seals adjacent the housing, wherein at least two of the seals are diaphragms. The cartridge preferably provides a first pilot activation feature and an opposing second pilot activation feature. The operating mode of the cartridge is determined by a selected orientation of the first pilot activation feature relative to the housing; and preferably the method of operating the controller includes the steps of: selecting an orientation of the first pilot activation feature relative to the housing; setting a span control mechanism to a neutral position relative to the housing; adjusting a float communicating with the cartridge to a neutral position; and adjusting said span control mechanism to determine a response type of said cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventor: Amy C. Stephens
  • Patent number: 8256446
    Abstract: Apparatus to configure fluid regulators are described. In one example, a stem guide for use with a fluid regulator is described. The stem guide includes a body having an opening to slidably receive a valve stem and an outer surface having a plurality of circumferential seals that removably couple the body within a bore of a regulator casing and align the body with the regulator casing or a valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Emerson Process Management Regulator Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James Chester Hawkins, Paul Richard Anderson, Gregory Lawrence Foust, Seth Kranz, Jason Scott Mevius
  • Patent number: 8186373
    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: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventors: Ying-Che Huang, Chun-Ming Huang
  • Patent number: 8151822
    Abstract: The present invention provides an integral cantilever monitoring device for a regulator having a positionable vent port that may be disposed proximate the lowest point of the monitoring device to allow drainage of liquids accumulating within the monitoring device due to humidity and precipitation. The monitoring device may also include a connection module allowing the monitoring device to be rotated independently of the actuator and valve body of the regulator to accommodate varying installation environments. The connection module may further include an inlet port for connection to a downstream pressure feedback line when the regulator valve body and connection module portions of a primary downstream pressure feedback passage are out of alignment due to rotation of the monitoring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
    Inventor: Seth Kranz
  • Patent number: 8118054
    Abstract: The disclosed embodiments include an apparatus and a method for controlling fluid flow. In accordance with certain of the disclosed embodiments, a valve is disclosed that comprises a yoke that encases a coil. The yoke has a gap adjacent to a central aperture of the yoke. A core tube is placed in the central aperture. The core tube has a core slidingly disposed within an interior chamber for controlling a fluid flow rate from a flow inlet to a flow outlet. A current is provided to the coil. Magnetic flux, generated by the coil in response to the current, is directed through the gap to cause the core to move proportionally based on the amount of current provided to the coil for changing the fluid flow rate from the flow inlet to the flow outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Brooks Instrument, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen P. Glaudel, Jan Willem Van Rijswijk
  • Patent number: 7975647
    Abstract: A milking apparatus that is used to extract milk from dairy animals includes a vacuum source, a milking liner cooperating with a shell to define a pulsation chamber; and a pulsator in fluid communication with the pulsation chamber and the vacuum source. The pulsator is configured to produce at least a four-phase milking cycle in the milking liner with the cycle including at least an A phase and a C phase. The A phase is wherein the liner is changed from a closed configuration to an open configuration during which the pulsator provides fluid communication between the pulsation chamber and the vacuum source. The C phase is wherein the liner is changed from an open configuration to a closed configuration during which the pulsator allows atmospheric air to flow into the pulsation chamber. A restrictor is disposed in the path of the fluid communication between the pulsator and the pulsation chamber with the restrictor slowing the C phase compared to the A phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Lauren AgriSystems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Frank Saho, III, Daniel E. Kandray, Sr., Thomas A. Lance, Aaron Kyle Kochman, Richard J. Carpenter, Charles Jeffrey Laney
  • Patent number: 7971599
    Abstract: To provide a low-cost air-operated valve, an air-operated valve comprises a piston, a cylinder in which the piston is allowed to slide by operation air, and a valve section to be driven by sliding movement of the piston. The cylinder includes an outer member having a hollow portion and an inner member loaded in the hollow portion of the outer member to define a piston chamber in which the piston is allowed to slide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: CKD Corporation
    Inventors: Tatsuhito Aoyama, Katsunori Hirose, Takashi Yajima, Tadaichi Hamada
  • Patent number: 7950384
    Abstract: Cooking appliance having an external and control panel equipped with one or more regulating valves, where the rotary regulator organ is equipped with various peripheral openings for supplying a flow Q. According to two embodiments of the cooking appliance, for the supply of one or another type of gas, NG or LPG, either the control knob or a bezel disk in the external panel are interchangeable on the appliance, being chosen between two different available units, one and the other permitting two different angular position limits A2, A3 of the regulator organ for the supply of a constant flow Qmin through one or another opening with calibrated sections, respectively for NG or LP gas. An appendix in the control knob guided in a slide groove on the control panel of the appliance, or a tongue on the bezel disk stopping the rotation of the control knob, determines the travel limit A2 for the supply of Qmin of NG.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Coprecitec, S.L.
    Inventor: Iñigo Albizuri
  • Patent number: 7878194
    Abstract: An inhaler has a cap body for defining a flow path and having first and second air inhalation openings for introducing outside air into the flow path from the outside; an air inhalation valve for opening and closing the first air inhalation opening by using the difference in pressure between the flow path and the outside; and a shielding section capable of selectively shielding either of the first and second air inhalation openings. The inhaler is configured to be switchable between two states that are a first state where the second air inhalation opening is shielded by the shielding section and outside air can be introduced through the first air inhalation opening by using the pressure difference and a second state where the first air inhalation opening is shielded by the shielding section and communication between the flow path and the outside through the second air inhalation opening is constantly maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Omron Healthcare Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takehiro Hamaguchi, Makoto Tabata, Satoshi Kurata, Yoshihiro Nakatsuji
  • Publication number: 20100278951
    Abstract: This manifold comprises a stack formed by at least a plurality of tubular modules and a first support, and at least one tie for compressing the stack in a configuration in which central internal volumes of the various modules are in mutual communication, with adjacent parts of the stack overlapping in leaktight manner, and in which the relative position of two adjacent modules is stationary. The tie may be fastened in rotation about its longitudinal axis and in translation parallel to said axis, relative to the first support. The tie is equipped with a clamping nut that, in the tightened position, exerts a compression force on the stack of modules and on the first support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Applicant: STAUBLI FAVERGES
    Inventors: Alain-Christophe TIBERGHIEN, Christophe DURIEUX, Stéphane EMEYRIAT
  • Patent number: 7806133
    Abstract: A controller and method of using same are disclosed. Preferably, the controller includes a pilot cartridge housing supporting an invertible pilot cartridge assembly (“cartridge”). The cartridge preferably includes a cartridge body supporting a number of pneumatic seals adjacent the housing, wherein at least two of the seals are diaphragms. The cartridge preferably provides a first pilot activation feature and an opposing second pilot activation feature. The operating mode of the cartridge is determined by a selected orientation of the first pilot activation feature relative to the housing; and preferably the method of operating the controller includes the steps of: selecting an orientation of the first pilot activation feature relative to the housing; setting a span control mechanism to a neutral position relative to the housing; adjusting a float communicating with the cartridge to a neutral position; and adjusting said span control mechanism to determine a response type of said cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventor: Amy C. Stephens
  • Patent number: 7793678
    Abstract: A converter valve allows product dispenser operator to change from a first fluid source to a second fluid source without fluid crossover. The converter valve includes a first port in fluid communication with a dispense point, a second port in fluid communication with a first fluid source having a first fluid, and a third port is in fluid communication with a second fluid source having a second fluid. The converter valve includes a passage between the first and second ports, and a plug in fluid communication with third port. The second and third ports of the converter valve are disposed symmetrically about the first port, and, accordingly, the converter valve is rotatable about the first port. As such, the converter valve delivers the first fluid to the dispense point, and delivers the second fluid through the passage to the dispense point when the converter valve is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Lancer Partnership, Ltd
    Inventors: William A. Edwards, Frank Carreño, Michael J. Riley
  • Patent number: 7726342
    Abstract: A backup valve for use with a pool cleaner coupled to a source of water under pressure. The valve includes a housing having an inlet and at least a first outlet and a second outlet. The valve further includes a timing apparatus directing water from said inlet to the first outlet or the second outlet. In addition, an adjustable flow controller over the second outlet is provided to increase the flow speed of fluid exiting the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc.
    Inventors: Sanford F. Campbell, Suresh C Gopalan
  • Patent number: 7699072
    Abstract: A device for regulating the delivery pressure of gases includes a valve unit having at least one valve seat and a respective closure element displaceable along an axis with respect to the valve seat which is controlled by a diaphragm. The device further includes a first spring which acts on the diaphragm in order to subject it to a preselected resilient load. A second spring is selectively activated to exert an additional resilient load on the diaphragm. The device includes a handle associated with the first and second springs in order to impose selectively the desired delivery pressure value, between a minimum value and a maximum value of pre-calibration, the pressure value being proportionally correlated with a predetermined resilient load exerted on the diaphragm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: SIT La Precisa S.p.A.
    Inventor: Michele Benvenuto
  • Patent number: 7669613
    Abstract: A connecting device (100) for a wall mixer has a cold water inflow (2) and a hot water inflow (3), a mixer insert (5), a mixer cartridge (7) and an outlet (29). Mixed water is directed to outlet (29) regardless of the rotary position of the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: ARWA AG
    Inventor: Werner Egli
  • Publication number: 20100018587
    Abstract: An adjustable valve assembly is disclosed. The valve assembly comprises a mounting portion and an adjustment assembly comprising an adjustable member threadably engaged with the mounting portion, the adjustable member adapted to change its position relative to the mounting portion when rotated and a clevis coupled to the adjustable member, wherein the position of the clevis relative to the mounting portion is adjustable by rotation of the adjustable member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Dori Marshall, Larry Kelly
  • Publication number: 20090320931
    Abstract: A universal control valve may use two different seat ring types including a threaded seat ring or a clamped seat ring. The valve includes a valve body, a cage mounting space enclosed by a bonnet and sized to receive two different valve cage types, and a seat ring mounting location including, an annular shoulder, a radiused projection, and a threaded portion. The threaded portion receives a threaded seat ring and the radiused projection forms a seal, while the shoulder supports a mounting flange of a clamped seat ring and forms a seal. Accordingly, the seat ring mounting location can receive a selected one of the two different seat ring types.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: FISHER CONTROLS INTERNATIONAL LLC
    Inventor: William E. Wears
  • Publication number: 20090229678
    Abstract: A hydraulic valve assembly for an excavator including a hydraulic valve movable along a longitudinal axis to control a flow of fluid, a flange coupled to the hydraulic valve, the flange including a receptor, and a locking mechanism movable between a locked orientation and an unlocked orientation. In the locked orientation, the locking mechanism cooperates with the receptor to inhibit movement of the hydraulic valve along the longitudinal axis and in the unlocked orientation the hydraulic valve is free to move along the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: CLARK EQUIPMENT COMPANY
    Inventor: Pavel Dosedel
  • Patent number: 7527070
    Abstract: A method for controlling fluid flow through a passageway includes slidably disposing a piston having a conduit that reduces the flow area through the passageway in the passageway and selectively closing the conduit of the piston by moving at least one of the piston and a plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: William E. Brennan, III, Edward Harrigan, Christopher S. Del Campo
  • Publication number: 20090020164
    Abstract: An Integrated and Detachable Float-valve-mounted Suction Plug is disclosed. The float valve having an integrated suction plug provides dual functionality—the functionality of a conventional diverter valve, as well as the functionality to plug the skimmer assembly pump suction port. The detachable float-valve-mounted suction plug is configured to snap over the top of a conventional diverter device in order to add the skimmer assembly suction port plug functionality. Both versions will eliminate the need for a pool cleaning person to carry a bag-full of tennis balls or plugs. Each device is designed to stay with or be incorporated within the diverter inside of the skimmer housing. Finally, both embodiments allow the plugging of the pump suction port by flipping over the diverter and then replacing the diverter inside of the skimmer housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Reed
  • Patent number: 7478645
    Abstract: A freezeless hot and cold outdoor hydrant having a hot water inlet and a cold water inlet and a single water outlet elbow. The hydrant has a hydrant body including a mix cavity chamber. The single water outlet is swivel mounted to an end of said hydrant body such the hydrant can be mounted in a vertical orientation with the hot and cold water inlets above the outlet or the hydrant can be mounted in a horizontal orientation with the outlet swiveled approximately 90 degrees and with the hot and cold water inlets horizontally oriented beside the outlet. Two horizontal orientations are possible, depending upon the swivel angle of the outlet elbow. One horizontal orientation has the hot water operator on the left side of the hydrant and the other horizontal orientation has the hot water operator on the right side of the hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Prier Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Brady, Joe Poskin
  • Patent number: 7458386
    Abstract: The invention relates to a manual gas valve for use with either LP gas or natural gas operation with the purpose of solving the technical dilemma that the existing gas valve cannot be converted conveniently for use with different gases having different heating values. The manual gas valve of the present invention comprises a nozzle 1, a 8×1.9 O-shaped ring 2, a nozzle holder 3, a valve body 4, a faucet 5, a regulating lever 6, a 1.78×1.78 O-shaped ring 7, a spring 8, a stop plate 9, a pair of bolts 10, a mounting cover 11, and a valve stem 12. By utilizing the manual gas valve of the present invention, LP gas and natural gas can be used interchangeably and the gas flow can be conveniently regulated to achieve a similar heating value with either LP gas or natural gas operation. In addition, the conversion is easy and convenient, without requiring the use of any special tools or relying on any additional testing apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Ningbo Wanan Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Feng Zhang
  • Patent number: 7373948
    Abstract: A backup valve for use with a pool cleaner coupled to a source of water under pressure. The valve includes a housing having an inlet and at least a first outlet and a second outlet. The valve further includes a timing apparatus directing water from said inlet to the first outlet or the second outlet. In addition, an adjustable flow controller over the second outlet is provided to increase the flow speed of fluid exiting the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc.
    Inventors: Sanford F. Campbell, Suresh C. Gopalan
  • Patent number: 7337801
    Abstract: A valve has a body, an outer shell and a bottom board. The outer shell contains a membrane and internal and external sliding bases with abutting stubs pressing the membrane. Channels are defined in the body and the sliding bases. The bottom board fits inside a rear of the body and has multiple apertures rotatably aligning the channels in the body to change “5-way, 2-position” or “3-way, 2-position” operation modes. Moreover, an electromagnetic valve with a shaft is installed inside the valve and cooperates with the movement of the sliding bases to selectively open or close the channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: V-Controls Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Allan Veltri
  • Patent number: 7302966
    Abstract: A flow control valve includes a body having a fluid passageway therethrough and first and second openings each adapted for receiving or discharging fluid from the passageway. A piston is slidably disposed in the passageway between the first and second openings of the body. The piston has a conduit portion that defines a bore therethrough for conducting fluid through a portion of the passageway. The bore has a reduced flow area. A plug is carried within the body and is equipped with one or more annular seals for sealably engaging the reduced flow area of piston bore so as to close the bore upon translatory movement of the piston, the plug, or a combination thereof. The flow control valve has particular application in downhole tools for communicating fluid into, out of, or through the downhole tool when disposed in a subsurface borehole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: William E. Brennan, III, Edward Harrigan, Christopher S. Del Campo
  • Patent number: 7300277
    Abstract: A torch operable to pivotally secure a lever on opposite sides of the torch. The torch may comprise a torch butt, a valve assembly, and a lever. The valve assembly may be operable to control a flow of a fluid through the torch butt. The lever may be selectively securable to a first portion of the torch butt and a second portion of the torch butt. The second portion of the torch butt may be disposed opposite the first portion of the torch butt. The valve assembly may be selectively securable within the torch butt to enable the lever to operate the valve assembly with the lever selected to pivot about the first portion of the torch butt and the second portion of the torch butt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Gary A. Foos, Robert W. Wakeman, Bruce A. Buhler
  • Patent number: 7278441
    Abstract: A fluid control device 1 has an upper space S1 formed between and defined by the upper surface of a piston 10 and the lower surface of top wall 8a of an upper casing 8, and a lower space S2 formed between and defined by the lower surface of the piston 10 and the upper surface of bottom wall 7a of a lower casing 7. A compression coil spring 11 for biasing the piston 10 is disposed in one of the upper space S1 and the lower space S2, and a compressed air admitting passage 15 communicates with the other space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Tanikawa, Tadayuki Yakushijin
  • Patent number: 7134446
    Abstract: The invention relates to a stop valve (1, 1?, 1?) for a portable pressurized-gas container (35). A valve body (2) is provided with three connection adapters (7, 17, 18), i.e. one central connection adapter as a gas tank connection adapter (7), another connection adapter as outlet connection adapter (17) and a third connection adapter as spindle drive receiving adapter (18). Valve body (2) is made in several parts including valve body element (3) with the outlet connection adapter (17) and a spindle drive receiving adapter (18) and a radial valve seat element receiving bore (20) going to the bottom of the spindle drive receiving adapter (18). Furthermore, the valve body (2) has an oblong valve seat element (5) with gas supply bore (29) provided at the one end of the valve seat (30) and a bearing collar (26) on the other end. In its assembled state, the valve seat element (5) is inserted tightly into the radial bolt receiving bore (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Seemann Sub GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Robert L. Huber, Robert Stoss
  • Patent number: 7124997
    Abstract: A toilet room flush valve includes a body with an inlet and an outlet and a valve seat therebetween. A valve assembly in the body is positioned to close upon the seat to control flow from the inlet to the outlet. A cover is mounted upon the body and defines a pressure chamber with the valve assembly. A bypass connects the inlet and the pressure chamber whereby pressure in the chamber maintains the valve assembly upon the seat. The pressure chamber may be vented to permit movement of the valve assembly toward the cover. The stroke of the valve assembly is limited by a volume regulator which is fixed to the cover and an adjustable microcontroller which is movable with the valve assembly and positioned to contact the volume regulator upon venting of the pressure chamber and consequent movement of the valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Sloan Valve Company
    Inventors: John R. Wilson, Steven R. Oliver
  • Patent number: 7111644
    Abstract: A manifold with interconnecting, non-threaded modular sections. The connected sections define a fluidic passageway and at least one valved outlet. The valved outlet is reversible to enable the valve to be readily accessible when the modular section is in any orientation. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Sea Tech, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall J. Rehder, Gary Hutko, L. James Knowles
  • Patent number: 7051568
    Abstract: A multi-purpose hydraulic tool of the open center and closed center type is provided with an OC/CC knob mounted on the trigger activated spool. The spool has a knob which can be turned to easily move between OC and CC operating conditions, without the use of additional tools. A check spool assembly works in conjunction with spool assembly in the open-center condition to provide for release of oil at the end of the return stroke. Adapters are provided so that crimping heads can be easily interchanged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Southampton Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Armand Ciotti
  • 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: 6942785
    Abstract: A system for automated treatment of fluids having interchangeable process modules (39, 40, 41, 42, 43), which are arranged next to each other, and which are respectively provided with a control unit and a fluid unit. The fluid unit is controlled by the control unit in order to carry out a module-specific process function during the treatment of the fluids. The control units are interconnected via a data bus (48), which is common to the process modules (39, 40, 41, 42, 43), and the fluid units are interconnected by a fluid bus (49) that has several channels. A fluid bus section is provided for at least one part of the channels inside each process module (e.g., 42). This section has fluid bus interfaces (52) at the ends thereof. A connection unit (51) is configured to be mounted between the respectively adjacent fluid bus interfaces (52) of two successive process modules (e.g., 41, 42) in at least two different mounting positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas Bayer, Klaus-Dieter Fiebelkorn, Axel Gerlt, Joerg Hassel, Richard Mateman, Arno Steckenborn, Jeroen Wissink
  • Patent number: 6886583
    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: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideyuki Matsushima, Takayuki Iwasaki
  • Patent number: 6877714
    Abstract: A flow control valve having a valve member engageable with a valve seat. The valve opens when the valve member disengages the valve seat as fluid pressure is bled from a pressure chamber on one side of the valve member. The valve closes after the pressure bleed ends when fluid pressure is metered back into the pressure chamber through a metering path. The speed at which the valve member closes is selectable depending upon the degree to which the metering path is tortuous. Two different tortuous configurations of the metering path are provided by two differently shaped labyrinths. The user can select one closing speed or the other by choosing which labyrinth is in the metering path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventor: Leslie R. Hall
  • Patent number: 6868868
    Abstract: A manifold body allows a pressure-control knob to be disposed facing in a selected direction. The manifold body is divided into a manifold block and a regulator block. The manifold block is provided with a pressure gauge, an inport, and an outport. The regulator block is provided with a pressure-control knob and a regulator. The manifold block and the regulator block have respective fitting portions that are at an angle of 45 degrees to a mounting surface as seen in the side view. Each fitting portion is symmetric with respect to a center axis, so that the regulator block can be joined to the manifold block at either of two different angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventor: Masayuki Okitsu
  • Patent number: 6837480
    Abstract: A valve connected to a fluid pipe line and having a valve chamber and at least one inlet port (3) and one outlet port (4), the valve comprising a ball (5) mounted in the valve chamber between a pair of seats (8, 9), and having an exterior surface and two ends and a fluid passageway extending between the two ends, the ball (5) is turned by a stem (6) for selective adjustment between an open and a closed position, with the ball (5) and stem (6) having an axis of rotation perpendicular to the centerline between the inlet (3) and outlet (4) ports, and the ball (5) having the centerline for its fluid flow passageway at an angle different from perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the ball (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Belimo Holding AG
    Inventor: Bengt A. Carlson
  • Patent number: 6834661
    Abstract: A control valve system includes a housing having an inlet port, a first output port, a second output port, and a valve chamber. A primary spool and a secondary spool are independently slidable in the valve chamber. The secondary spool has a first end for abutting against the primary spool and has a second end with a working surface area greater than the working surface areas at the ends of the primary spool. A solenoid valve assembly controllably connects the inlet port to the second end of the secondary spool. A biaser provides a biasing force to the primary spool. A first fluid passage through the primary spool provides fluid communication between the first output port and a second end of the primary spool for displacing the primary spool relative to the secondary spool in an energy saving mode, thereby regulating a pressure at the first output relative to the predetermined magnitude of the biasing force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Ross Operating Valve Company
    Inventor: José Carlos Bento
  • Patent number: 6832396
    Abstract: An improved bathroom tap water control valve allowing back-to-back installation includes a body, a water guide and a water temperature control unit, an adaptation trough at the center of the body, the guide being hollow having a disk adapter at bottom to be received in the adaptation trough; the water temperature control unit comprised of a casing and a spindle being accommodated inside the guide; a primary and a secondary supply lines being respectively provided on both sides of the body; a primary and a secondary supply pipes connecting through the primary and the secondary supply lines being provided to the guide; an upper supply area connecting through the primary supply pipe and a lower supply are connecting through the secondary supply pipe being respectively provided on the casing of the water temperature control unit; characterized by that the guide being capable of exercising 180-degree rotation to allow interchangeable conduction between the primary and the secondary supply pipes and the primary and
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Globe Union Industrial Corp.
    Inventor: Shih-Hung Lin
  • Patent number: 6805151
    Abstract: A faucet includes two valve seats back-to-back, and a ceramic control valve assembled with an assembly slot of the two valve seats. The assembly slot is provided on a central horizontal line thereof with a cold water guide bole and a hot water guide hole, and on a central vertical line thereof with an upper discharging hole and a lower discharging hole. A base of the ceramic control valve is provided on a central horizontal line thereof with a cold water admission hole, and a hot water admission hole. The base is further provided with a water discharging hole which is located across a central vertical line of the base such that the water discharging hole is opposite in location to the lower discharging hole of the assembly slot. The base is provided with a water stopping surface located on the central vertical line of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Inventor: Chia-Bo Chang
  • Patent number: 6802334
    Abstract: In a method of manufacturing different types of water and sanitary fitting elements, such as taps and mixers, there is used multiple functional parts that have parts which come into contact with water in use, and one or more casing parts which are at least partially visible. The water-contacted functional parts are formed in a module system that includes a limited number of elements, e.g. 10-15 in number, and are made of a material that will not deliver harmful substances to the water. The casing parts are made of another material and are given an inner shape or form which is adapted to the outer shape or form of the functional parts so the casing parts will surround the functional parts, either completely or partially, in an exchangeable manner. The functional parts may be made of a plastic material, e.g., a thermoplastic material, while the casing parts may be made of any chosen material. Also provided is a module system built-up of functional parts and casing of the aforesaid kind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: FM Mattsson AB
    Inventor: Stefan Ericsson
  • Patent number: 6772784
    Abstract: A proportional pressure regulator assembly having a main body with a first inlet adapted for fluid communication with supply of positive pneumatic pressure, a second inlet adapted for fluid communication with a supply of negative pneumatic pressure, an outlet adapted for fluid communication with a pneumatically actuated device, and an exhaust port is provided. A fill regulator valve is included that is adapted to regulate the supply of positive pressure. A vacuum regulator valve is included that is adapted to regulate the supply of negative pressure. An exhaust valve is included that is operable to exhaust pressure from the outlet. A control circuit assembly is also provided that is adapted to receive a command signal and a feedback signal and to regulate the amount of positive pneumatic pressure through the fill regulator valve or the amount of negative pneumatic pressure through the vacuum regulator valve in response to the feedback signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: MAC Valves, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Jones, Zafar A. Khan
  • Patent number: 6766831
    Abstract: An eductor (1) for mixing liquids, e.g. a concentrated solution into water, has a flow passage (16) for a first liquid into which a dispensing passage (18) for a second liquid opens so that in use the second liquid is drawn into the flow of the first liquid. The dispensing passage (18) including a flow restrictor portion provided by a groove (22) extending on the periphery of a restrictor plug (19) removably received in a socket (21) of the eductor body. The groove (22) and the wall of the socket (21) define the flow rate in the dispensing passage. The plug (19) has a plurality of the grooves (22) and is selectively insertable into the socket in a plurality of positions, the grooves providing respectively different flow rates of the second liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: JohnsonDiversey, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen G Oliver
  • Patent number: 6761184
    Abstract: A water flushing unit and a method of making such comprising a cover plate that is to be mountingly installed to replace the original equipment cover plate of a shower valve. The modified cover plate has a drain conduit which includes an on/off valve. The on/off valve is in turn connected to a flexible tube. Flushing water from the shower valve is to be confined and directed through the drain pipe and, with the on/off valve in an open position, is caused to flow through the drain tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Inventor: Scott C. Jordan
  • Patent number: 6755214
    Abstract: A control valve system including a housing having an inlet, a first output, and a second output. The control valve system further includes a slidable valve positionable in a first position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the first output; a second position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the second output; and a third position, where fluid communication is prevented between the inlet and the first or second output. A solenoid valve assembly is coupled in fluid communication with the inlet and is positionable in an actuated position, where fluid communication is established with the inlet to move the valve from the first position to the second position, and a deactuated position. A piston selectively extendable to position the valve in the third position in response to fluid pressure within the first output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Ross Operating Value Company
    Inventor: Jose C. Bento