With Heating Or Cooling Of The System Patents (Class 137/334)
  • Patent number: 6209573
    Abstract: A water management system for a motor vehicle in which water is collected from the condenser (1) of the air-conditioning unit, stored in a master water tank (5) and distributed therefrom to the battery (15), screen wash jet (27) and radiator (37). The vehicle owner is thus spared the inconvenience of regularly checking and topping up the water supply for these items. The risk of breakdown is also reduced. In another aspect of the invention, a wet battery (15) incorporates a plurality of float valves (75) for regulating the fluid level in respective cells (61, 63) of the battery. Water is passed through a common channel (23) into which the float valves (75) open when the fluid level is below a preset limit. The battery fluid is thereby automatically kept at the required level for optimum performance and lifetime of the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventor: Chin Lye Chau
  • Patent number: 6209570
    Abstract: An automatic flush water distribution system for use in an evaporative cooling system includes a water distribution pipe adapted to be connected to a source of pressurized water. The pipe has a plurality of water distribution ports formed therein and a vertical flush pipe is connected at a first end to the water distribution pipe in liquid communication therewith. The flush pipe includes a second lower end and contains at least one valve seat and at least one buoyant float valve located therein between the valve seat and the water distribution pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Munters Corporation
    Inventor: Frederick B. DeBello
  • Patent number: 6206029
    Abstract: A valve of a vacuum apparatus with a valve seat body having left and right communicating openings opposed to the two vacuum chambers, respectively, a valve body movable in the axial direction of the valve seat body and rotatable around the center axis thereof, and a driving section for moving the valve body in the axial direction of the valve seat body and for rotating it around the center axis thereof, the valve being so disposed between the left and right vacuum chambers that the driving section of the valve is projected outwardly in the horizontal (lateral) direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Shinkuseiko Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Koichi Onodera
  • Patent number: 6196246
    Abstract: A plumbing system which, when ambient outdoor temperatures drop below freezing, circulates water to prevent it from freezing, utilizing a check valve to prevent water from flowing back into the water main and further utilizing a relief valve which can open to the atmosphere and relieve pressure in the system if necessary. The system can have two separate circulation pumps, one for hot water and one for cold water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Inventor: William D. Folsom
  • Patent number: 6186165
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hot water delivery device (20), for application to trucks, tractor-trailer vehicles and the like, including a water tank (1) which can be housed in a casing (10) rigid with the platform of the vehicle The main feature of the invention is that the device further comprises an electric power supplied boiler (6), having a size adapted to allow the boiler to be housed in said casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Inventor: Pasquale Damiani
  • Patent number: 6178996
    Abstract: An actuator utilizing the pressure of a gas is used to operate a diaphragm-operated control valve. An operating force generated by the actuator is varied by feeding and discharging a gas such as N2 through a narrow metallic tube. This is conducted by remote control, by means of electromagnetic valves provided in an environment at room temperature. The state of the control valve is monitored by a flow rate sensor which detects an actual flow rate of a fluid being controlled. Based on a signal representative of the detected actual flow rate, the electromagnetic valves for the actuator are controlled so that the fluid always flows at a desired flow rate. The gas such as N2 is heated by a heat exchanger in a high-temperature atmosphere in the vicinity of the actuator, to thereby prevent cooling of the fluid being controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: MKS Japan, Inc.
    Inventor: Isao Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6176254
    Abstract: A flow control valve for allowing the flow to be controlled on a proportional basis using a direct current(DC) motor thereby improving the flow control function. The flow control valve is constructed in a manner that a valve housing having a guide space and an inlet and an outlet is formed on the both sides of the valve housing, the inlet and the outlet being in communication with each other through the guide space. A spool is installed inside the guide space of the valve housing and up/down movably coupled therein so as to control the opening of the outlet. A spool guide is placed on the upper side of the guide space passing through liquified coolant by moving up/down along with the spool. A elastic support elastically supports the spool guide to one direction. A sealing member prevents the leakage of liquefied coolant by surrounding the spool on the lower side of the valve housing. A driving mechanism moves the spool up/down by use of a DC motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hwan-Young Choi
  • Patent number: 6152166
    Abstract: An equalization chamber has a first plurality of gas inlet openings for a gas stream and a second plurality of gas outlet openings for partial gas streams, each outlet being connected by way of a gas line to a gas consumer, the maximum flow resistance for each partial gas stream being located in the area under the gas outlet openings, seen in the flow direction of the partial gas streams. To guarantee the highest possible degree of uniformity and reproducibility of the gas supply to the consumers, the maximum flow resistance for each partial gas stream is provided in the gas line between the gas outlet opening and the gas consumer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Heraeus Quarzglas GmbH & Co KG
    Inventors: Heinz Bauscher, Klaus Ruppert
  • Patent number: 6129108
    Abstract: A fluid delivering system receives a fluid from a supplying device, transfers the fluid to an operational device and then dumps the used fluid into an extraction device. The fluid delivering system has a main pipeline system and at least a secondary pipeline system. Each pipeline system uses a first flow valve to control the back flow of fluid to a first flow controller, a second flow valve to protect a pressure gauge and a third flow valve to control the flow of fluid to a pressure controller. Through the relative positioning and the concerted actions of these three valves, any malfunctioning in the fluid delivering system can be detected quickly so that on-going processing operation can stop immediately to minimize product damages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignees: United Semiconductor Corp, United Microelectronics Corp
    Inventors: Yu-Feng Peng, Ming-Fa Liu, Morris Chang, Mike Hou
  • Patent number: 6125880
    Abstract: Subject of the invention is a mass flow (volume flow) stabilising circulation system, which consists of independently operated circulation loops via two or more mass flow stabilising bridges (6). (FIG. 2)Furthermore the subject of the invention is a mass flow (volume flow) stabilising bridge (6), which consists of the hydraulic bridge (9) with inlet (7) and outlet (8) primary couplings, the outlet (10) and inlet (17) secondary couplings, furthermore the secondary delivery pipe (2b) with outlet connection (12) and the secondary return pipe (3b) with inlet connection (13). An equipment for circulation (4) is installed into the secondary return pipe (3b). (FIG. 3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Komfort 2001 Ltd.
    Inventor: Sandor Szilagyi
  • Patent number: 6123097
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and methods for controlling gas pressure within a semiconductor process chamber. The apparatus comprises a throttle valve 32 positioned downstream of the process chamber outlet for controlling gas flow therethrough. The throttle valve includes a valve body 41 having a through-hole and a plug 44 movably disposed within the valve body for controlling gas flow through the through-hole. The throttle valve incorporates an abrasive element 86 disposed within the valve body in abrading contact with an exposed surface 89 of the plug. The abrasive element effectively removes gas deposited onto the exposed surface of the valve plug during operation of the throttle valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Quoc Truong, Imad Yousif, Vincente Lim, Craig Bercaw
  • Patent number: 6098213
    Abstract: A water temperature regulator having a closed container that is provided with a cold-water inlet pipe and a hot-water inlet pipe having flow control connected thereto for introducing cold and hot water, respectively, into the container at a desired flow rate, a discharge pipe for guiding water in the container to an external water storage, at least one water service pipe for guiding water in the container to at least one water supply outlet, such as a showerhead or a faucet, at least one control for controlling open/close of the discharge pipe and of the at least one water service pipe, and a water temperature indicator for showing a temperature of water in the container. Instead of being drained, water introduced into the container that has not reached a desired temperature is discharged to and stored in the water storage for reuse later without being unnecessarily wasted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Hen-Tsung Chen
    Inventor: Li-Tsan Chu
  • Patent number: 6041811
    Abstract: An ice plug for defining a barrier in a pipeline section filled with water, comprises a hollow, cylindrical body enclosed at a front end and provided with guide means for sliding movement of the plug along and within the pipeline. The body has a diameter smaller than that of the pipeline to define with the latter an annular interspace enclosed at opposed axial ends of the plug. The thickness of the annular space is selected to allow free movement of the body through curves in a pipeline and to form a continuous, annular ice layer firmly engaging the inside wall of the pipeline and the outer surface of said body to thus form, together with the body, a temporary water impermeable barrier within the pipeline. A water supply system fills the interspace with process water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: PA-Plug, Inc.
    Inventors: Bronislav Walter, Donald D. Savard, Jaromir Friedrich
  • Patent number: 6019123
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and kit for preventing freezing in pipes. In its most basic form, the apparatus of the present invention includes three lengths of uninsulated flexible ductwork, each having a pair of connectors attached to each end, and a T-shaped adapter having three openings which are dimensioned to mate with one connector of each length of ductwork. In operation, the first length of ductwork, below the "T", is fitted over the downspout of the system and comes to rest in the system piping pit, the second length of ductwork is attached to a central heating duct and the third length is attached to the water inflow. Thus, when the central heating system is in operation, air is forced down the second duct to the "T" where substantially half of the warm air is directed to the piping pit and the other half is directed along the length of the exposed piping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventor: Robert Gibbs
  • Patent number: 6000423
    Abstract: A system for maintaining gas pressure within a gas delivery system. This system contains a first gas flow straightener, a contaminant separation tank, an inlet manifold, a rotary positive displacement compressor, a second gas flow straightener, a radiator, an oil separator/gas receiver tank, and a third gas flow straightener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: New York State Electric and Gas Corporation (NYSEG)
    Inventors: Bruce D. Roloson, Ewan Choroszylow, Giovanni Aquino, Paul M. Crvelin, Robert W. Stiles
  • Patent number: 5950653
    Abstract: A backflow preventer assembly installed between a supply line and a service line, comprising one or more check valves and a high pressure relief valve operating to discharge water in the service line under a high pressure condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventor: William D. Folsom
  • Patent number: 5875812
    Abstract: A plumbing assembly is disclosed that comprises an access panel which allows increased access to a temperature and humidity control system such as a heating or air-conditioning system. The access panel includes at least one valve for controlling the flow of a fluid and communicates with the first end of a first piping assembly. The second end of the first piping assembly communicates with a second piping assembly typically through a valve situated within the second piping assembly. The second piping assembly is part of a temperature and humidity control system and is generally in fluid communication with a heat transfer coil in the temperature and humidity control system. The access panel allows a technician or inspector to service or inspect a heating or air-conditioning system without the risk of injury and the cost associated with conventional methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Inventor: Melford L. Miller
  • Patent number: 5868159
    Abstract: A pressure-based mass flow controller suitable for accurately monitoring and controlling the flow of many types of precursors characterized by vapor pressures ranging from approximately 2 torr or lower to at least 760 torr or higher at delivery temperatures of up to at least 250 degrees C. or higher for flow rates ranging from molecular to sonic. A flow restrictive element is installed in the precursor flow path, and the pressures of the fluid upstream and downstream of the flow restrictive element are measured. The ratio of the upstream and downstream fluid pressures is computed and compared to a value stored in the memory of a CPU associated with the controller to determine whether the flow is choked or non-choked. The mass flow of the precursor fluid is then computed by the CPU in accordance with a linear function of the upstream pressure, for choked flow, and in accordance with a nonlinear function of both the upstream and downstream pressures, for non-choked flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: James Loan, John LeFavour, D. Jeffrey Lischer, Laura A. Sullivan, David Planchard
  • Patent number: 5842497
    Abstract: A direct contact steam injection heater allows shear to be adjusted without taking the process off-line to relieve pressure within the heater. A stud is mounted to an adjustable combining tube within the heater. The stud extends through an opening in the heater body into a sealed housing. An adjusting mechanism exerts force on the combining tube stud within the sealed housing to move the combining tube longitudinally within the body to adjust the shear within the heater. The position of the combining tube is indicated by an analog revolution counter. The adjusting mechanism can be driven manually or by a motor. The motorized embodiment of the invention can be used with feedback control to automatically optimize shear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Assignee: Hydro-Thermal Corporation
    Inventors: Brian N. Drifka, Bruce A. Cincotta
  • Patent number: 5819784
    Abstract: A water purifier includes a housing containing hot and cold water storage tanks. Hot and cold water spigots are connected to the hot and cold water tanks, respectively, for dispensing hot and cold water. A water retainer tray is disposed beneath the spigots to collect water dripped during dispensing. A residual water discharge pipe discharges the water from the retainer tray. A stored water discharge pipe is connected to the water tanks to enable all water therein to be purged when it is time to clean the tanks. A valve mechanism joins the residual water discharge pipe and the stored water discharge pipe to a common discharge pipe. The valve mechanism is operable such that when the stored water discharge pipe is open to the common discharge pipe, the residual water discharge pipe is closed, to prevent water from backing up to the retainer while the hot and cold water tanks are being drained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Deok-Joong Yoon
  • Patent number: 5791370
    Abstract: An apparatus for supplying fluid comprising a fluid source, valve, inside tube and outside tube. The outside tube is in open communication with the fluid source and the valve. The inside tube is located within the outside tube. The inside tube is in open communication with the fluid source on one end and is spaced apart from the valve on the opposite end so that warm lower density fluid from the fluid source flows up through the inside tube displacing cool higher density fluid near the valve. The cool higher density displaced fluid is forced by gravity back to the fluid source in a fluid return path located between the inside tube and the outside tube. When the valve is in the closed position for an extended period of time, the apparatus maintains a continuous fluid flow from the fluid source through the inside tube to a location near the valve. When the valve is opened warm fluid flows immediately through the valve saving both time and fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: Robert P. Harland
  • Patent number: 5746240
    Abstract: A freeze protection system for a car wash facility having a plurality of bays and having exposed water lines located in an area that is subjected to freezing temperatures. By using a temperature probe connected via a digital temperature meter to a microprocessor, the system will only operate when the temperature is lower than a pre-set value and will shut off when the temperature is higher than a pre-set value. When activated, a predetermined charge of antifreeze mist will purge the piping in each bay, leaving only a small residual of antifreeze. When a bay is used, the system is reactivated, purging only the bay that has been used. The system is easily adaptable to any number of bays or areas of piping that must be protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventors: Leo Ayotte, Paul Obie
  • Patent number: 5690137
    Abstract: A spindle device for supplying air for cleaning and a coolant for cooling or lubricating, including: a tool holder (11) with a coolant passage (22) through which a coolant is supplied; a spindle (10) having a support surface (26) formed at the front portion thereof for accepting the tool holder (11); a drawing bolt (25) having a through-hole for supplying air or a coolant and movably arranged in the spindle (11) for clamping or unclamping the tool holder (11) accepted on the support portion (26) of the spindle (11); and a pull stud (12) attached on the tool holder (11) and provided with a valve (13), the valve (13) being located in association with the coolant passage (22) and the through-hole, the valve (13) being so constructed as to open or close according to the movement of the drawing bolt (25) in such a manner that the valve (13) opens so as to connect the through-hole to the coolant passage (22) when the tool holder (11) is clamped, whereas the valve (13) temporarily closes so as to shut the connection
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Assignee: Kitamura Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shigeru Yamada
  • Patent number: 5651645
    Abstract: A generating head assembly for cutting or machining a surface on a workpiece and including a generating head mounted for relative rotation with the workpiece and with cutting or machining members having a radially advanced cutting or machining position for cutting or machining the surface of the workpiece and a radially retracted non-cutting on non-machining position; the generating head assembly includes an actuating structure for providing relative rotation between the generating head and the workpiece and a rotary motor mounted with the generating head; the rotary motor is selectively operable to rotate an actuating shaft relative to the generating head to actuate the cutting or machining members to their radially advanced and retracted positions without axial thrust loads being applied to the generating head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Assignee: Walter W. Wawrzyniak
    Inventors: Walter W. Wawrzyniak, Thomas E. Wawrzyniak, Richard A. Habarth
  • Patent number: 5623960
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a solenoid-operated valve for a thermally insulated piping having a thermally insulated outer periphery suitable for transporting low-temperature fluid, high-temperature fluid or the like and relates also to an attachment construction for the valve.Conventionally, with this type of solenoid-operated valve for a thermally insulated piping, since it is necessary to to increase a magnetic flux density of the solenoid coil by increasing the number of turns of the oil or the electric current to be applied thereto, there has been the problem of high production costs and running costs.In the case of the solenoid-operated valve for a thermally insulated piping according to the present invention, inside a heat-insulating layer (6) surrounding flow passages (7, 20, 21, 26, 33) in the form of a pipe, there is provided a fixed core (23) constituting a magnetic circuit between a solenoid coil (17) and a movable coil (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Assignees: Teisan Kabushiki Kaisha, L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme Pour L'Etude Et L'Exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Hideki Kawamura, Yoji Mori, Minoru Ueta
  • Patent number: 5568824
    Abstract: A hose reel includes a housing or casing therefor, providing for the concealed installation of the reel within the ground or within a basement or foundation crawl space. A hose access and control panel is also provided, with the panel and a cover therefor being the only components of the reel which are exposed to the elements. The reel may include automatic retraction using an elastic (i.e., bungee) cord, and may also include a remotely operated water flow and shutoff solenoid valve and manually or automatically switched electrical heating element. The reel assembly may be mounted on tracks within the housing, in order that the reel assembly may be removed for maintenance and repair as required. The concealed hose reel and housing serves to protect the hose thereon from damage or theft when not in use, and eliminates the need for any unsightly or inconvenient externally mounted hose rack or reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Inventor: Michael P. Cordrey
  • Patent number: 5542450
    Abstract: An apparatus for metering fluids is disclosed which comprises: a solid block having within the block a first fluid inlet; a filter assembly; a first fluid outlet; a first channel connecting the first fluid inlet to the filter assembly, and further connecting the filter assembly to the first fluid outlet; a second fluid inlet; a check valve assembly; a second fluid outlet; a second channel connecting the second fluid inlet to the check valve assembly, and further connecting the check valve assembly to the second fluid outlet; and a fluid meter connected between the first fluid outlet and the second fluid inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: The Lubrizol Corporation
    Inventors: Stanley C. King, Richard C. Knop, John E. Green, Thomas R. Gyde, L. William Silzle, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5538031
    Abstract: A recreational vehicle winterizing device adapted for use in association with a recreational vehicle including a water supply system with a plurality of interconnected rigid pipes, the apparatus comprising: a canister formed in a hollow cylindrical configuration with an upper surface including an aperture, a cylindrical neck with screw threads being positioned around the aperture, antifreeze fluid being positioned within the canister, a tube being positioned through the upper surface and extending within the canister, the tube including a valve to enable the user to regulate the flow of antifreeze therethrough; and a pump assembly including a handle, a cylindrical member and a collar with screw threads, the collar threadedly coupling the cylindrical member through the neck of the canister, the handle having an upper extent including a gripping ring and a lower extent including a rod slidably positioned through the cylindrical member, a user gripping the handle and forcing the rod upward and downward thereby c
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Inventors: Shelby J. Brence, Diana G. Brence
  • Patent number: 5531242
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for using a system for delivery of fluid from cylinders comprising a plurality of supply cylinders containing fluid at or near supercritical conditions, each cylinder comprising a fluid outlet; sensing means for sensing at least one fluid property for each of said plurality of supply cylinders; heating means adapted to each of said plurality of supply cylinders and coupled to said sensing means to adjust the pressure of said fluid in said supply cylinders in response to said at least one fluid property to maintain said fluid at or near supercritical conditions; pump means to deliver fluid from said cylinder outlet to an application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Assignee: American Air Liquide
    Inventor: Joseph E. Paganessi
  • Patent number: 5507310
    Abstract: The invention provides an improved system of plumbing for transportation conveyances including over-the-road, domestic vehicles, railway cars and yachts. The system includes a compact, unitary water distribution manifold for distributing water from an external supply of water. The manifold defines a system of conduits having inlets and outlets for connecting the conduits alternatively to a pressurized external water supply, or, where the external supply is not pressurized, to a pump, with a valve for draining water from the manifold and connected piping, e.g. for cold weather storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Assignee: Watts Investment Company
    Inventors: David L. Sordello, Carl A. Engstrom
  • Patent number: 5499651
    Abstract: Auto-deicing system with a valve having a butterfly plate (5).The spindle (8) of the valve (4) is controlled by a system terminated by a pin (11) coaxial to the spindle (8) and which, like the latter, has slots (13). When the pin (8) is iced up, the control system initiates a movement of the pin (11) so that the slots (12, 13) come into extension with one another, which allows a circulation of the hot gas on one side of the butterfly plate (5) through the spindle (8), which is thus reheated. The opening movement resumes when the ice has melted.The invention is applicable to cold starting systems on aircraft engines.(FIG.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Assignee: Societe Nationale d'Etude et de Construction de Moteurs d'Aviation "SNECMA"
    Inventors: Claude Gallo, Guy E. O. LeClercq
  • Patent number: 5488968
    Abstract: A fluidizing apparatus, such as a winterizing apparatus, and related method for preventing freezing of water in the water pipes of a dwelling. The apparatus includes a pump, an inlet line, an outlet line, a pressure switch, and an air compressor tank. The outlet line is connected to a faucet of the water pipes of the dwelling and the inlet line is positioned in a container of fluid, such as antifreeze. When a second faucet is opened, the pump is activated, and the pump will then cause antifreeze to flow from the container, through the inlet line, the pump, and the outlet line, and then into the faucet and through the water pipes of the dwelling. An associated air compressor tank is in fluid communication with the pressure switch and exit line, and cooperates with the pressure switch to maintain consistent pumping of the antifreeze. After antifreeze is in the pipes, a shut-off valve in the exit line is closed and/or the at least one valved water outlet is closed, which causes the pump to deactivate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Inventors: John R. Price, Michael A. Way
  • Patent number: 5455014
    Abstract: A liquid deposition source delivery system (22) includes a reactant source (50) of a liquid chemical reactant, a first heater (54) positioned adjacent to the reactant source (50) , and a vapor collection system (56) in communication with the reactant source (50) to collect vapor evolved from the reactant source (50). A flow controller (64) has an upstream side (66) in communication with the vapor collection system (56). A line (70) of a vapor distribution system is in communication with the downstream side (68) of the flow controller (64). A second heater (76) is positioned adjacent to the flow controller (64), at least a portion of the vapor collection system (56), and at least a portion of the vapor distribution system, to prevent the vapor from condensing in the lines (70) of the delivery system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Assignee: Hughes Aircraft Company
    Inventors: Michael A. Costantino, William C. Yorke
  • Patent number: 5427357
    Abstract: A control valve comprises a valve body having a fluid channel and a valve seat; a valve operating part; a valve stem supporting member having its upper end fixed to the valve operating part and its lower end fixed to the valve body; a valve stem penetrating the valve stem supporting member and having its upper end part connected to the valve operating part and its lower end part entering the valve body, the valve stem being movable upward or downward by the valve operating part; and a valve element attached to the lower end of the valve stem. The valve element is moved upward or downward by moving the valve stem upward or downward, the valve element being brought into contact with and seated in the valve seat to close a fluid channel as it is moved downward, the valve element being detached from the valve seat to open the fluid channel as it is moved upward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Mutsunori Koyomogi, Kunihiko Daido, Masahiko Nakazawa, Yukio Minami, Masahiko Sogao, Kazuhiro Yoshikawa, Shuhei Ogawa, Tetsuya Kojima
  • Patent number: 5421362
    Abstract: The invention provides an improved system of plumbing for over-the-road, domestic vehicles. The system includes a compact, unitary water distribution manifold for distributing water from an external supply of water. The manifold defines a system of conduits having inlets and outlets for connecting the conduits alternatively to a pressurized external water supply, or, where the external supply is not pressurized, to a pump, with a bypass valve for controlling the flow of water to the pump inlet. The system of plumbing further includes drain valves coupled to a cold water conduit and to a hot water conduit for draining water from the manifold and connected piping, e.g. for cold weather storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: Watts Investment Company
    Inventor: David L. Sordello
  • Patent number: 5343937
    Abstract: A double containment liquid source gas line uses an outer annular chamber which functions as a safety containment housing and a thermal control liner. The thermal control is accomplished by providing hot water and pumping the water in a closed loop configuration. The water serves to accurately and reliably control temperature of liquid source gas in the gas line. The water is in a closed loop system, so that, by providing leak detection equipment on the water line, faults in either chamber may be rapidly detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy D. Gross
  • Patent number: 5337774
    Abstract: A system for use in winterizing/dewinterizing a watercraft marine engine is provided with a closed coolant storage tank having a cooperating pump, with an open coolant recovery tank having a separate cooperating pump, with coolant fluid transfer lines connecting the storage tank pump outlet to the recovery tank and connecting the recovery tank pump outlet to the storage tank, and a control for operating the storage tank pump and the recovery tank pump independently of each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Assignee: The Smart Corporation
    Inventor: Gary P. Boyd
  • Patent number: 5316038
    Abstract: A fluid distribution device having a circuit including a first and a second duct between a common inlet and a common outlet. A third duct to the first duct and a fourth duct to the second duct. A one-way valve at each side of the connections from the third and fourth ducts to the first and second ducts enables flow from the inlet into each of the third and fourth ducts, but prohibits flow from the third and fourth ducts back to the inlet and only permits the latter flow out of the outlet. Various valves at the inlet and the outlet control pressure. A return path from the outlet to the inlet has a cooler in it. A reservoir supplies fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Inventors: Silvia B. Segura Salvador, Maria del Mar Segura Salvador
  • Patent number: 5309938
    Abstract: Fresh water is distributed in an aircraft from at least one supply tank connected through a conduit to at least one water using device, such as a tap, faucet, or the like. The conduit is constructed as a ring conduit, which is provided with or connected to a water conveying device, such as a pump, suction, or pressurizing device. One or more water using devices are connected to the ring conduit by respective branch lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: Deutsche Aerospace Airbus GmbH
    Inventors: Hubert Ellgoth, Helge Frank, Gerd Grunwald, Georg Mai, Karolin Mau, Ralf Schliwa
  • Patent number: 5294351
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling zebra mussels in the inlet cell of a utility power plant by isolating a batch of water in the cell from the water supply of a lake or river and the equipment plant by shutting an inlet gate and shutting outlet valves from said cell. The batch of isolated water is thereafter heated to a lethal temperature which is maintained for a sufficient period of time to ensure 100 percent mortality to the zebra mussels within the cell. The water may be maintained in a static condition and heated by a heat exchanger disposed within the cell. Alternatively the water may be fed to a heat exchanger, heated outside the cell, and returned to the cell. The water is heated to a range of approximately 95.degree. F. to 100.degree. F. and held at the heated temperature within the cell for approximately 30 minutes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Assignee: First Thermal Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: David N. Clum, Frederick Krosner, Jewel R. Leak, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5249596
    Abstract: A bypass damper for a forced air system comprising a freely pivotable damper blade with bent portions at the ends thereof and having an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the pressure set point of the damper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1993
    Assignee: Carrier Corporation
    Inventors: Harrison T. Hickenlooper, III, Ivy G. Moses
  • Patent number: 5150102
    Abstract: A machining fluid temperature deviation alarm device is attached to an electrical discharge machining device which, having a temperature sensor (S1) for machining fluid temperature detection and a cooler (2) for machining fluid cooling, controls the cooler in response to a temperature sensor output signal, thereby controlling the machining fluid temperature within an allowable range. The alarm device employs a second temperature sensor (S2) for determining whether the machining fluid temperature is within a predetermined temperature range set by means of a second setter (5) and encompassing the allowable machining fluid temperature range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Assignee: Fanuc Ltd
    Inventor: Hidenori Takashima
  • Patent number: 5125427
    Abstract: Temporary plugs are formed in process flowlines by injecting into the flowlines a plugging material having a freezing point only slightly below the ambient temperature. The plugging material is frozen in place, and a servicing operation is conducted on the flowline. The plugging material is then allowed to thaw or is thawed by applied heat. Linear primary alcohols and normal paraffinic hydrocarbons are preferred plugging materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Assignee: Conoco Inc.
    Inventors: Lisa A. Cantu, Allen R. Petree
  • Patent number: 5085242
    Abstract: The invention is directed to the thermal mobilization of black oil residues by direct and/or indirect heating whereby the mobilized residues are then removed from the tank by a localized negative pressure means. The removed black oil residues are then treated to recover an oil which may be utilized alone or combined with other petroleum products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1992
    Assignee: Great Eastern (Bermuda) Ltd.
    Inventors: Ian Ripley, Anthony H. Needham
  • Patent number: 5060630
    Abstract: A control valve for limiting the passage of water between a water source and a hot water tank within an automatic control system for water heaters. The control valve contains a sensing means for determining pressure differentials between the hot water tank, the water source and the delivery system. A rod is secured within the control valve housing for limiting the movement of the sensing means when the hot water heater ruptures of leaks. The sensing means also includes a valve seat which acts to control the entrance of water from the water source into the hot water tank. The valve seat defines a leak path which prevents water pressure loss in the hot water tank during a water cooling cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Inventor: Wayne S. Boals
  • Patent number: 5058616
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method of and a system for supplying ultrahigh purity gas to a process device operated under reduced pressure. The first invention is a method of supplying ultrahigh purity gas comprising the steps of heating, in non-operation of the process device for effecting film making or etching under reduced pressure, a pipe line for supplying ultrahigh purity gas into said device at least for a prescribed period of time for the purpose of exhausting the ultrahigh purity gas from said pipe line, and stopping said heating of said pipe line in operation of said device and supplying the ultrahigh purity gas from said pipe line into said device via an introduction inlet of said device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Inventor: Tadahiro Ohmi
  • Patent number: 5056552
    Abstract: A chemical bath for immersing articles such as integrated circuit wafers in a hot flow of etchant or other liquid includes a liquid receptacle with a first compartment for receiving the articles and a second compartment which acts as sump and further includes a trough which channels overflow from the first compartment into the sump. A pump recirculates liquid from the sump back to the first compartment. The receptacle is supported by a casing in which the lower region of the receptacle is situated. The casing in which the lower region of the receptacle is situated. The casing is sealed by a flange on the receptacle which overlays a rim member on the casing and by sealing material situated between the rim member and the underside of the flange. The flange is located below the trough in vertically spaced apart relationship with the trough. This inhibits direct heat transfer from the trough to the seal and thereby enhances seal durability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Assignee: Imtec Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Allan Berman
  • Patent number: 5046410
    Abstract: A liquid heating or cooling circulator in which a liquid such as liquid egg is heated and cooled and flows easily and which is easily cleaned. The circulator includes a casing which holds a number of vertically disposed pipes held between upper and lower holding plates. The interior surface of the pipes is an aluminum alloy for corrosion resistance. A circulating pump and valves circulate the liquid egg or other liquid through the pipes in the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1991
    Assignee: Toshin Technical Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasuhiro Shimizu
  • Patent number: 5033502
    Abstract: The gas which comes from a source passes through a regulating valve, then through a heat exchanger and is sent to the network through a production duct. The heat exchanger thus acts as a muffler. Application to the supplying of gas from air separation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Maurice Bosquain, Jean-Yves Lehman
  • Patent number: 5014737
    Abstract: A recirculating chemical bath arrangement includes a quartz process tank, and a sump chamber disposed directly adjacent to the process tank. A trough extends about the top portion of the outer walls of the process tank, the trough being inclined to cause gravital flow toward the sump chamber. The sump chamber includes a fitting in the bottom thereof which directs liquid from the sump into a pump/filter circuit, the output of which is fed into the bottom of the process tank. The liquid is thus caused to overflow the process tank and spill into the trough, and flow into the adjacent sump chamber. A plurality of heater units are secured to the exterior surface of the process tank to heat the liquid therein to the proper process temperature. The sump chamber is unheated, so that the liquid entering the pump/filter is at the coolest temperature of the liquid flow cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1991
    Inventor: Allan Berman