Tool For Applying Or Removing Valve Or Valve Member Patents (Class 137/315.41)
  • Patent number: 10612688
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a telescopic double tubular member accommodated in an outer case that is mounted so as to surround an outer circumferential surface of a water pipe, and placed between a pair of cut faces. The double tubular member includes an anti-corrosion member that faces the pair of cut faces and a core member, and is configured such that the anti-corrosion member is radially expanded by the core member, so as to be pressed against the pair of cut faces. The anti-corrosion member has a through hole that communicates with the water pipe, and a flange positioned above the through hole and extending radially outward. The flange has an abutment surface that abuts an outer circumferential surface of the water pipe, and this abutment surface is curved along the outer circumferential surface of the water pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: Waterworks Technology Development Organization Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Daisuke Kuwagaki
  • Patent number: 10465803
    Abstract: A multipurpose valve tool is provided. The multipurpose valve tool includes multiple flow control discs, a retention ring, and a valve key. The flow control discs are configured to be installed within a valve body of a valve assembly to modulate a flow of fluid through an outlet port of the valve body. The retention ring is configured to retain the flow control discs on a component of the valve assembly when the flow control discs are not installed within the valve body. The valve key includes a first end configured to engage an installation feature in a retention fastener for one of the flow control discs. The flow control discs, the retention ring, and the valve key are detachably coupled to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Bernard P. Clement, Brian D. Klarkowski, Duane S. Freimuth, Kevin A. Weiss, Russell T. Jenks, Kyle M. Bero, Nicholas P. Prato, Gary A. Romanowich
  • Patent number: 10385770
    Abstract: A check valve for a connecting rod for a variable compression internal combustion engine with at least one hydraulic chamber arranged in the connecting rod and connectable with a supply connection or a tank through the check valve, the check valve including a valve housing; and a valve closure element that is axially movable in the valve housing along a longitudinal valve axis, wherein the valve closure element is applicable to a valve seat and arranged in the valve housing secured against separation from the valve housing, wherein a pin shaped separation prevention element is provided which secures the valve closure element in the valve housing and limits a stroke of the valve closure element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: ECO Holding 1 GmbH
    Inventors: Alexander Diehm, Bastian Eckrich, Dietmar Schulze
  • Patent number: 9671041
    Abstract: Embodiments of a valve device that reduces noise and vibration that may occur during low flow conditions in fluid couplings (e.g., valves and flow regulators). These embodiments utilize a plug and seat arrangement with geometry to prevent pressure differentials that cause the plug element to open and close in a cyclic pattern. In one embodiment, the valve device includes a seat element with an aperture and a plug element with a boss that extends into the aperture when the plug element contacts the seat element. The boss has an outer surface that forms a gap, which defines an annular area proximate the point of contact between the seat element and the plug element that is sized to reduce Venturi flow effects that cause the cyclic pattern to occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: Dresser, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Charles Lively, Lamar Edward May, Kenneth Marcell Graff
  • Patent number: 9404613
    Abstract: An isolation tool for isolating small bore pipe has a spigot having a proximal section with diameter and a distal section with smaller diameter. A seal is provided on the tool around the smaller diameter section. In some embodiments, the isolation tool is located through a hole in the wall of the pipe and through a second hole in the opposite wall of the pipe, the tool arranged so that when the tool is located through the second hole the seal fills the bore of the pipe and isolates a section of the pipe. In other embodiments, the tool may be located between severed pipe sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: STATS (UK) Limited
    Inventor: Angus George Bowie
  • Patent number: 9382777
    Abstract: A tool for installation of units in connection with oil wells, comprising a housing (1) with an attachment device (12) for attachment to a well installation, a telescopic device (30, 31, 32) for extension of the tool, a torsional force transmission device (13) for rotation of an internal movable element (2) of the tool. The internal movable element (2) comprises a pressure face (21), which in an operative condition is exposed to a well pressure and a counter-pressure face (22), with a sealing arrangement (26) between the housing (1) and the internal movable element (2) provided between these pressure faces (21, 22) and devices (23) which are arranged in such a manner that a pressure can be applied to the counter-pressure face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: Petroleum Technology Company AS
    Inventors: Stâle Pettersen, Erling Kleppa, Trond Kvasnes
  • Patent number: 9022055
    Abstract: An improved valve assembly having an integral single piece housing (1) having an inlet (15), an outlet and defining an inwardly extending wall forming a valve seat (3); a valve member (4) moveable within the housing (1) between a closed position and an open position and a seal (11) to form a fluid tight seal between the valve member (4) and the valve seat (3) when the valve member is in the closed position. The seal (11) also acting to retain the valve member (4) within the housing (1) and in which the housing defining end portions which extend axially away from the valve member (4) at any position of the valve member between the open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Cambridge Reactor Design Limited
    Inventors: Bashir Husein Harji, Christopher Mitchelmore, Malcolm Withers
  • Publication number: 20150075643
    Abstract: A fluid extractor device including a ring with a circumference capable of fitting around an oil filter; a bracket affixed to the ring; and a valve including a base attached to the bracket, an extendable pin extending through the base, and a vacuum extension extending perpendicularly from the base and terminating in a vacuum aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: Wayne Arthur Swanson
  • Patent number: 8919369
    Abstract: Fluid flow control members for use with valves are described herein. An example fluid flow control member for use with a valve includes a body having a seat to control a fluid flow through the valve. The body defines a seating surface, an aperture to receive a stem of the valve and a plurality of substantially flat surfaces to enable gripping an exterior surface of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
    Inventors: Chun Lin, Eric Alan Miller, Roy Ronald Pelfrey, Yan Tao Sun, Fan Jian Jun
  • Patent number: 8899254
    Abstract: Valve removal tool and method for removing older corporation valves/valves from pressurized lines such as water mains without depressurization. The removal tool is temporarily fastened to a saddle around the water main and includes a valve through which a tool may be inserted to grasp and unscrew the old valve and withdraw the old valve through the valve in the tool. The tool also allows placement of a plug in the opening in the water main left by the removal of the tool. Typically a cap is placed over the opening in the saddle to provide a final seal in the event the plug leaks or is somehow dislodged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: YamsMos & Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald Ray Weiler
  • Publication number: 20140158221
    Abstract: A press device for valve leakage abatement while piping system maintenance is being performed is disclosed herein. Essentially, the device comprises a frame that can clamp down and provide pressure (and therefore seal) to the valve. The design further includes a vent or a test port to assist in determining if a pipe freezing apparatus is working. Also disclosed is a system for providing pipe maintenance to a water supply line wherein one or more pipe freezing apparatuses are employed in addition to the press device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventor: James Henderson
  • Patent number: 8733419
    Abstract: A tool for filling a tire with a gas is provided. The tool includes: an air chuck; a shaft connected to the air chuck; a rim hook connected to the shaft; and a spring located between the shaft and the rim hook. A method of filling a tire is also provided. The method may include: connecting an air chuck to a valve stem; attaching a hook and spring assembly attached to the air chuck to a rim associated with the tire to be filled; and flowing a fluid through, the air chuck and into the valve stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Bosch Automotive Service Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Michael R. White
  • Patent number: 8726927
    Abstract: A device for conveying and/or distributing fluids comprises a housing with connection portions, one or more threaded ring nuts which can be screwed to the connection portions for joining them, and a tightening seat formed in the housing. The device further comprises a first adapter with a portion for coupling with the tightening seat, a driving portion for engagement with an engagement portion of the ring nut and a first key seat shaped to receive a portion for coupling a tightening tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: F.I.P. Formatura Iniezone Polimeri S.p.A.
    Inventors: Andrea Bisio, Corrado Mazzacano
  • Patent number: 8720476
    Abstract: An apparatus for engaging and moving a ram block. In some embodiments, the apparatus, or ram block changer, includes a support bracket coupled to a blowout preventer and an articulated arm releasably coupled to the ram block. The ram block changer may further include a pivot coupling assembly having a first axis of rotation. The pivot coupling assembly extends through the support bracket and the articulated arm, wherein the articulated arm is rotatable about the first axis of rotation relative to the support bracket. The articulated arm may include a first member receiving the pivot coupling assembly therethrough, a second member coupled to the ram block, and a second pivot coupling assembly having a second axis of rotation spaced apart from the first axis of rotation and extending through the first and second members. The second member is rotatable about the second axis of rotation relative to the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Tan Lee, Son Nguyen, Dung Tran, Scott Lee
  • Patent number: 8677585
    Abstract: An alignment mechanism is used for assembly of a diffuser inside a pressure reducing and conditioning valve, said valve having a body, an inlet port, an outlet port, a pressure reducing section between the ports, and a diffuser in an internal cavity of the pressure reducing section. The alignment mechanism comprises at least one alignment assembly having an alignment port disposed in the valve body in the pressure reducing section. The port has a passageway passing through an outer wall of the valve, and has a removable closure member adapted to close one end of the passageway. A removable alignment rod is adapted to be inserted through the passageway in the alignment port to contact an outer surface of the diffuser when the diffuser is inserted into the internal cavity of the pressure reducing section of the valve. A method of use of the alignment assembly is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Dresser, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter K. Merrill, Donald F. Foisy
  • Patent number: 8662101
    Abstract: A device suitable for retrofitting in laid pipelines is intended to be able to be placed and fixed in place in the pipeline. Transport of the device to the installation location is intended to be performed using as little force as necessary, and the sealing element is intended to be displaced without contact and thus without wear. To this end, the device, in the interior of which a shut-off device (6) is disposed, is designed so that an offset, conically tapering region (10) is adjacent to a front cylindrical region (3) and is bounded by a stop collar (12) on which a connecting contour (7) for a coupling piece of a drive element is connected. A sliding piece (13) made of an expandable material is displaceably disposed in the axial direction on the conically tapering region (10), comprising a circumferential groove in which a spring-loaded clamping ring (15) is supported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Mertik Maxitrol GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Werner Herrfurth, Thomas Vogt
  • Publication number: 20130333770
    Abstract: There is provided a means for mounting a check valve into a housing including fluid passages therein that can secure a closing property between a valve body and a valve seat by preventing the deformation of the valve seat, can prevent the rattling of the check valve relative to the housing including fluid passages therein and can ensure the flow rate of fluid necessary at the time of start-up. The check valve 10 and a wave washer 54 are put into a housing space 52 of the housing 46 including fluid passages therein, so that the separation of the check valve 10 and the wave washer 54 from the housing space 52 is prevented by retaining means 58 and 62. When the check valve 10 and the wave washer 54 are mounted into the housing space 52, a repulsive force is caused in the wave washer 54.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: MIKUNI CORPORATION
    Inventor: Katsuya Maita
  • Publication number: 20130333769
    Abstract: A tool attachable to a valve stern of a tire grips and removes the valve core from the valve stern prior to introduction of sealant through the tool into the tire. Subsequently, the valve core, which has been stored in the tool, may be reinserted into the valve stem. An external pressurized gas source may then be attached to the tool so that gas may be injected through the tool and the valve stem of the tire into the tire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: James Zalzalah
  • Patent number: 8567431
    Abstract: A check valve system including a plumbing assembly and a check valve assembly. The plumbing assembly has at least three portals including a first portal, a second portal and a third portal. The check valve assembly is positioned to block a fluid flow entering the second portal from flowing out of the first portal. The check valve assembly includes a securing mechanism positioned in the third portal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventor: Philip L. Hapner
  • Patent number: 8511328
    Abstract: The invention is directed toward a T-pipe designed for transfer of high pressure fluids through the main run and where the branch run is left in a standby position for possible use in the future. The opening, or outlet, of the branch run is sealed by a material continuous with the main run. An opening and fluid flow in the branch run while the main run is in production and remains under full pressure, is to be provided. The sealing includes a metal membrane which is in contact with the fluid flowing in the main run. The metal membrane is thinner than the wall thickness of the T-pipe and is supported by a plug inserted in the branch run.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Apply Nemo AS
    Inventor: Per Lillejordet
  • Patent number: 8322359
    Abstract: A gas pressure regulator comprises a main body having a first, gas inlet pipe and a second, gas outlet pipe, a calibrated gas passage through which gas flows from the first pipe to the second pipe, a shutter housed at least partially in the main body and mobile lengthwise along a first defined line to adjust the opening of the calibrated passage, a device for actuating the shutter and a regulator spring unit opposing the movement of the shutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: O.M.T. Officina Meccanica Tartarini S.r.I.
    Inventors: Stefano Zecchi, Andrea Monti
  • Patent number: 8322358
    Abstract: A plug puller device and method for removing a clean-out plug from a drain clean-out and permit draining of a drain line below an obstruction prior to removing the obstruction. The device includes first and second housings. The first housing includes a drain connected to its interior. The first end of the first housing is adapted to be removably attached to the clean-out. The first end of the second housing is removably attached to the second end of the first housing. A rod is slidably received in an opening at the second end of the second housing. A fitting is attached to a first end of the rod for coupling and uncoupling with the plug through movement of the rod. A second end of the rod forms a connector to which a tool can be coupled to rotate the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Brian Michael Kipp
  • Patent number: 8245723
    Abstract: A device for conveying and/or distributing fluids comprises a housing with connection portions, one or more threaded ring nuts that can be screwed to the connection portions in order to join them, a control handle and a tightening seat formed in the housing and adapted to support the control handle in a tightening position, rotatable around a tightening axis. The control handle comprises a drive portion which, in the tightening position, engages with a coupling portion of the ring nut, in a manner such that a rotation of the control handle around the tightening axis leads to a screwing or an unscrewing of the ring nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: F.I.P. Formatura Iniezione Polimeri S.p.A.
    Inventors: Corrado Mazzacano, Andrea Bisio
  • Patent number: 8205630
    Abstract: A method for assembling and adjusting a pressure setting of a valve includes positioning a threaded spider and a poppet spring on a poppet, mounting a valve body into an assembly fixture, inserting the poppet including the threaded spider and the poppet spring positioned thereon into the mounted valve body, pushing an adjusting fork through the assembly fixture and through the valve body, engaging the threaded spider with the adjusting fork, and flowing pressurized fluid into the assembly fixture while simultaneously rotating the adjusting fork in a direction to draw the threaded spider into the valve body and to compress the poppet spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Ausco, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph R. McKee
  • Patent number: 8056574
    Abstract: A valve assembly is disclosed for mounting through a wall having a first face and a second face defining a thickness there between. The valve assembly includes a valve body housing having an axially-extending inner bore. A valve body is telescopically received in the inner bore of the valve body housing, such that the valve body is axially movable with respect to the valve body housing. A valve is nested in a recess of the valve body. A locking element selectively engages the valve body housing and the valve body to lock a position of the valve body relative to the valve body housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Perry Dennis Erickson, Steven Thomas Radder
  • Publication number: 20110225785
    Abstract: A punch tool includes a housing, a ram bar, and a floating punch assembly. The housing includes a cap having a lip defining an opening, and elongated slots. The floating punch assembly includes a floating punch having a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion with ledges formed at the intersection of the three portions. One ledge is larger than the opening in the cap. The floating punch also includes a bore, and a retaining pin extends through the slots in the housing and the bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventor: Roger Kliskey
  • Patent number: 7975716
    Abstract: A puck retaining recess in a plunger of a solenoid valve is formed with a puck retaining lip that is fixed or unified with the plunger. The puck is then radially compressed to fit through a central opening of the retainer lip, and once the puck is pushed past the retainer lip, it is allowed to radially expand within the recess where the puck is retained between a bottom of the recess and the retainer lip. This eliminates many problems that previously occurred with separable retainer lips pressed into position to hold a puck after its insertion into a plunger recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Valve Tech, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Mullally
  • Publication number: 20110088790
    Abstract: An apparatus for unsealing a pipe in a pipe assembly is disclosed. The apparatus has a seal for minimizing leakage from the pipe and a spring attaching to both the seal and the pipe assembly. If the seal is to be removed, a spring force of the spring acts against and moves the seal for removal of the seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventors: Joseph P. Schutte, William Franklin Turnau, III, Brian D. Sanzone, Derry Yourman
  • Patent number: 7757706
    Abstract: A backwater valve assembly includes a valve housing, a valve member and a servicing tool. The valve housing has an internal ledge within its interior on which is positioned a retainer clip oriented in vertical alignment with a riser. The valve member has a first engagement of a two part engagement on one face and a mounting along a peripheral edge which includes transverse pins adapted to engage the retainer clip. The servicing tool includes a second engagement of the two part engagement at a working end of a shaft. The hook engages the hook receiver of the valve member during insertion and removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventor: Gabe Coscarella
  • Patent number: 7748401
    Abstract: A gas pressure regulator comprises a main body having a first, gas inlet pipe and a second, gas outlet pipe, a calibrated gas passage through which gas flows from the first pipe to the second pipe, a shutter housed at least partially in the main body and mobile lengthwise along a first defined line to adjust the opening of the calibrated passage, a device for actuating the shutter and a regulator spring unit opposing the movement of the shutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: O.M.T. Officina Meccanica Tartarini S.r.l.
    Inventors: Stefano Zecchi, Andrea Monti
  • Patent number: 7506665
    Abstract: A ball valve has a ball with resilient, opposed facing spaced-apart locking arms which engage a stem having outwardly projecting flanges to allow the stem to be inserted externally into the valve body and locked to the opposed locking arms of the ball. In one embodiment, the stem and ball include an interengaging keyway and correspondingly shaped rib for positive coupling of the ball to the stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: NIBCO Inc.
    Inventor: Robert B. Gruener, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20090049671
    Abstract: Apparatus to connect a valve stem to a valve member are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a valve stem having a laterally extending opening, a valve member having a laterally extending opening, and a coupling having adjacent one end an extension received in the laterally extending opening of the valve stem and adjacent an opposite end an extension received in the laterally extending opening of the valve member. A resilient member is located between the valve stem and the valve member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2007
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Dennis Eugene O'Hara
  • Patent number: 7458394
    Abstract: A servovalve assembly includes a motor having a flapper shaft. A flapper couples to a first end of the flapper shaft such that the flapper shaft orients the flapper between a first nozzle and a second nozzle of the servovalve assembly. An adjustment assembly adjusts a position of the flapper relative to the nozzles of the servovalve. The adjustment assembly enables a servovalve manufacturer to set the flapper of the servovalve at a null position without disassembling the servovalve. Rather, the manufacturer is capable of simply installing the adjustment assembly and deforming an arm portion of the adjustment assembly for proper null position calibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: HR Textron, Inc.
    Inventors: Muchlis Achmad, Bernard Johnson
  • Patent number: 7353838
    Abstract: A faucet assembly includes a base having first and second ends, a sidewall extending between the ends, a mounting bore extending from the first end, a permeate water spout port extending from the second end, and a valve assembly bore extending from the sidewall and connecting the mounting bore and the permeate water spout port. A fastener is located within the mounting bore and extends out of the base from the mounting bore for securing the faucet assembly to a mounting surface, and a valve member is positioned within the valve assembly bore and movable between closed and opened positions. The valve member allows tool access from the permeate water spout port, through the valve member, and to the fastener in the mounting bore when the valve member is moved to a predetermined position. This arrangement allows top-mounting of the faucet assembly using a toggle bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Craig Schmitt, Mark D. Henss
  • Patent number: 7347218
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for removing a test plug from a vent when positioned at a remote location with respect to the vent. The apparatus includes a cover having a handle section and base, the cover being visible from a remote location with respect to the vent. The apparatus further includes a retainer coupled to the cover by a connecting sleeve. The test plug is maintained between the cover and retainer and is removable from the vent by forcibly engaging the apparatus with a retrieval device configured to extend from the remote location to the vent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Inventors: Cory Reimer, Duane Reimer, Jon Dorn
  • Patent number: 7308905
    Abstract: A self-extracting service module for piping infrastructures comprises a platform on which is mounted equipment for controlling and or monitoring the flow of liquid or gaseous media throughout the piping infrastructures. A first remote-controllable pipe coupling system is interconnected with the equipment inlet and a second pipe coupling system is interconnected to the equipment outlet. The platform is attached to actuators positioned near each corner of the platform. The actuators cooperate with at least one pressure-driven device. The service module is extracted from the piping infrastructure by isolating the equipment from the flow of liquid media after which, the pipe coupling systems are remotely disengaged from the piping infrastructure inlet and outlet. The actuators are operated to move the platform from within the piping infrastructure to a position where service work is easily performed on the equipment without the attendant hazards and constrictions associated with confined spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Inventor: Richard Taylor Gill
  • Patent number: 7306010
    Abstract: A ball valve has a ball with resilient, opposed facing spaced-apart locking arms which engage a stem having outwardly projecting flanges to allow the stem to be inserted externally into the valve body and snap-locked to the resilient opposed locking arms of the ball. In one embodiment, the stem includes a breakaway groove to prevent over torquing of the stem. In another embodiment, a retainer carrier for the ball includes slots for receiving integrally formed projection tabs on the underside of the valve handle which are spaced and sized to interfit with the slots of the threaded retainer carrier such that, if ball or seal replacement becomes necessary, the valve handle itself can serve as a removal tool for the retainer carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Nibco Inc.
    Inventor: Robert B. Gruener, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7296587
    Abstract: A self-extracting service module for piping infrastructures comprises a platform on which is mounted equipment for controlling and or monitoring the flow of liquid or gaseous media throughout the piping infrastructures. A first remote-controllable pipe coupling system is interconnected with the equipment inlet and a second pipe coupling system is interconnected to the equipment outlet. The pipe coupling systems are remotely manipulable for engaging and disengaging the equipment with piping infrastructure inlets and outlets. The platform is attached to actuators positioned near each corner of the platform. The service module is extracted from the piping infrastructure by first isolating the equipment from the flow of liquid media after which, the pipe coupling systems are remotely disengaged from the piping infrastructure inlet and outlet. The actuators are then operated to move the platform from within the piping infrastructure to a position where service work is easily performed on the equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Inventor: Richard Taylor Gill
  • Patent number: 7210500
    Abstract: A servovalve assembly includes a motor having a flapper shaft. A flapper couples to a first end of the flapper shaft such that the flapper shaft orients the flapper between a first nozzle and a second nozzle of the servovalve assembly. An adjustment assembly adjusts a position of the flapper relative to the nozzles of the servovalve. The adjustment assembly enables a servovalve manufacturer to set the flapper of the servovalve at a null position without disassembling the servovalve. Rather, the manufacturer is capable of simply installing the adjustment assembly and deforming an arm portion of the adjustment assembly for proper null position calibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: HR Textron, Inc.
    Inventors: Muchlis Achmad, Bernard Johnson
  • Patent number: 7175158
    Abstract: A valve assembly for installation into deck-mounted tubs includes a valve body, a top plate that engages with the valve body, a bottom plate, and an adjustment member that bears against the valve body and engages with the bottom plate. The adjustment member is accessible from above the deck and moves the top plate, valve body, and bottom plate relative to each other. This allows the valve assembly to be tightened completely from above the deck even if the bottom portion of the assembly is inaccessible. The adjustment member is a jack screw or other threaded member that can be adjusted with a conventional screwdriver, eliminating the need for specialized installation tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventor: Kurt Judson Thomas
  • Patent number: 6983759
    Abstract: A valve includes a valve body with a hollow valve body interior and an opening-defining portion that defines an access opening. The opening-defining portion is arranged as a connection-facilitating structure for facilitating the fluid-tight connection of a separate isolation valve assembly to the opening-defining portion in a position over the access opening that enables removal and replacement of a valve-stopping mechanism from the valve through the isolation valve assembly. It may include a flange, exterior thread, one or more annular grooves or rings, and/or a segmented cam lock arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Occlude
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Maichel, Thomas A. Sovilla
  • Patent number: 6973939
    Abstract: An exit opening (78) in a cartridge (22) is alignable with an opening (48) in a housing (32) for communication to an external drain. The cartridge and the housing have positions of final secured and initial unsecured interconnections, when openings (78, 48) are respectively aligned and unaligned. A lever (52) is swivelably secured to the housing bottom wall (46), whose cap (54) can close housing exit tube (28); a projection (56) is engageable with the cartridge for effecting the closure when the housing and cartridge openings (48, 78) are not aligned. Three L-shaped keyways (60) in the housing interior mate with three keyways (82) in the cartridge, and have corrugated surfaces to provide a ratcheted secure connection between the cartridge and the housing when in the secure connection. A tool (92) is used to insert and to remove the cartridge into and from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Falcon Waterfree Technologies
    Inventors: Ditmar L. Gorges, Michael Higgins
  • Patent number: 6955183
    Abstract: Embodiments of a pressure tank valve socket are disclosed which may be used to safely remove the valve from a propane or other pressure tank without damaging the valve. The pressure tank valve socket applies force only to the sturdiest part of the valve and, thus, prevents injury to the more delicate parts of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: David McCarthy
  • Patent number: 6929024
    Abstract: An improvement for use with a hand operated wrench primarily intended for removing a cartridge from an opening, with such wrench having a slotted aperture at one end. This improvement comprises an elongate threaded device having a mounting shaft at one end, and tapered external threads at the other end, with an internally threaded hole extending partly along the length of the device. This mounting shaft is sized to be inserted into the apertured end of the wrench, with flattened shoulders on the shaft able to closely engage the slotted aperture of such wrench to prevent undesired rotation. The internally threaded hole is engagable by an elongate screw associated with the wrench, to prevent undesired separation during use. The external threads of the elongate device are of a diameter for tightly engaging and removing a fractured cartridge from an opening, such as in a valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Inventor: Jason W. Rucker
  • Patent number: 6901948
    Abstract: A removable flow restrictor 750 and a corresponding method for regulating flow through a fluid fertilizer distributor 700 are provided. A supply inlet port 712 is in fluid communication with a plurality of fluid outlet ports 716. The flow restrictor 750 is removable positionable within the fluid distributor 700 between the inlet port 712 and the outlet ports 716, for restricting flow between the inlet port 712 and the outlet ports 716. A restrictor engagement member 752, which may be a thread, on the flow restrictor 750, engages with a tool engagement member 762 on a retrieval tool 760. With the restrictor engagement member 752 engaged with the tool engagement member 762, the retrieval tool can be used to both position the flow restrictor 750 within the fluid distributor 700, and to remove the flow restrictor 750 from the fluid distributor 700. After positioning within or removing from the fluid distributor 700, the flow restrictor 750 may be disengaged from the retrieval tool 760.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: PGI International, Ltd.
    Inventor: Spencer M. Nimberger
  • Patent number: 6901947
    Abstract: A system for performing rapid charging and evacuation of systems that contain a fluid, such as cooling systems on refrigeration products. In addition, the invention relates to methods of accomplishing rapid charging and evacuation, as well as to tools that form part of the system and that are used to accomplish the methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Fastest Inc.
    Inventors: Robert B. Danielson, Stanlee W. Meisinger
  • Patent number: 6899120
    Abstract: A yard hydrant has an elongated wet pipe with a plunger that seals against the inside of a well casing. Lifting a pivoting handle at the top of the wet pipe lowers the wet pipe which opens a normally closed supply valve. Pressurized water can then flow up the wet pipe and out of a nozzle head mounted to the upper end of the wet pipe. Lowering the handle pulls the wet pipe upward, thereby clearing it from the supply valve which is spring biased to shut off the water supply. The handle has a cam that positively actuates a normally closed anti-siphon valve so that water left in the wet pipe can fall under gravity to a collection chamber within the well casing beneath the piston. Lifting the handle again lowers the wet pipe and forces the water in the collection chamber back up the wet pipe. At the same time, the anti-siphon valve will close and the wet pipe re-opens the supply valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Baker Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Charles B. Motley
  • Patent number: 6889702
    Abstract: A replaceable valve seat ring for a valve assembly has an annular ring body and an open flow passage extending through the ring body. A seating surface is provided on the ring body adjacent one end of the flow passage. A tool accepting region of the flow passage is formed concentric with and at least partially along the flow passage. The tool accepting region is adapted to receive a standard tool head therein for installing and removing the valve seat ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC.
    Inventors: Randy J. Hall, Ronald C. Burr, Carl D. Miller
  • Patent number: 6886584
    Abstract: A method and assembly of replacing a receptacle seal is provided. A seal removal kit includes a poppet depressing member, retaining collar, seal removing tool, and a seal insertion sleeve that allows the seal to be replaced without removal of the receptacle or portions thereof from a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Argo-Tech Corporation Costa Mesa
    Inventor: James Turvey
  • Patent number: 6840280
    Abstract: These and other objects of the present invention are achieved by provision of a flow through ultrasonic system for facilitating the flow of flow-resistant materials. The system includes a supply of material and an ultrasonic horn having at least one passage extending therethrough. An isolating tube which is compatible with the material is provided passing through the at least one passage in the ultrasonic horn, the isolating tube in communication the supply of material and completely isolating the ultrasonic horn from the material. A converter imparts ultrasonic energy to the ultrasonic horn, and in turn to the isolating tube so as to inhibit the material from attaching to and clogging the isolating tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Sonics & Materials Inc.
    Inventor: William P. Simon