Valve Guards Patents (Class 137/382)
-
Patent number: 7216667Abstract: A valve opening/closing handle lock mechanism provided in a valve having a manually operated valve opening/closing handle (1) is capable of maintaining the security of the valve by preventing the valve from being opened or closed by accident or with malicious intent after completion of a proper opening/closing operation of the valve by means of the handle (1). The handle lock mechanism comprises a locking cap (4) mounted on the handle (1). The locking cap (4) functions to prevent the handle (1) from being operated, extends from the handle (1) to a handle mount portion (3) of the valve so as to cover the corresponding portion of the valve with the locking cap (4), and is provided with: an opening (5) through which an end portion of the handle (1) passes outward; or, a longitudinal groove through which the end portion of the opening/closing handle (1) slidably passes outward.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Surpass Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hiroki Igarashi
-
Patent number: 7210497Abstract: A pressure relief device for electrical equipment housing, includes a valve body having a pedestal that projects above a mounting flange and a table on the pedestal that supports a two-stage valve assembly that can be sized in diameter independently of the working area of the flange beneath the table. The design is particularly applicable to retrofit applications for large power distribution equipment with the footprint of the pressure relief device fixed by the design of the equipment housings. The first-stage valve opening can be sized substantially as large as vent openings in the housings and the second-stage valve openings can be sized in the desired relationship with the first-stage opening for optimizing valve performance independently of the constraints imposed by the footprint of the device.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2003Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Assignee: Qualitrol CorporationInventor: Joshua J. Herz
-
Patent number: 7195031Abstract: A gauge protector that fits over the regulator assembly of a tank and includes a first housing section defining a first cavity for receiving the regulator and a second housing section defining a second cavity for receiving the pressure gauge. The first and second housing sections provide shock protection for the gauge and regulator. The first and second housing sections are rigidly connected to one another and mounted on the regulator assembly such that a force applied to the gauge is at least partially absorbed by the gauge protector and regulator assembly. As a result the force on the gauge is lessened and the integrity of the connection between the gauge and the regulator is maintained.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool CompanyInventors: David J. Trettin, Jon Aaron Schlosser, Mark Allen Catron
-
Patent number: 7178546Abstract: A valve cover having a valve cover body, preferably of two sections. These sections are placed on either side of a valve. When joined, the sections enclose the valve, but form line apertures around the lines leading to and from the valve. Once the sections are in place, a cap is placed over the sections. The cap is sized to fit the sections tightly and will prevent the sections from separating. The cap may be provided with a tongue in groove mechanism to prevent accidental removal of the cap and to help secure the cap to the valve cover body. The cap and the valve cover body are also preferably provided with locking apertures. When these locking apertures are aligned, the cap may be secured to the valve cover body with a lock. With the valve cover locked in place around a valve, access to the valve is denied.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Linelox, LLCInventor: Jack P. F. Gremillion, III
-
Patent number: 7143780Abstract: A faucet hose anti-tangling guard for a shut-off valve is a molded plastic shield that has a prolate shape, divided across a short axis into two portions. The rear portion attaches over a water shut-off valve assembly using two plastic brackets assembled with screws. The front portion is positioned over the valve handle. A recessed aperture in the front portion provides access to the valve handle without removing the invention. A foam gasket prevents the shield from slipping. With the guard in proper position, the faucet hose cannot wrap around the water shut-off valve while the hose is being drawn from its housing for use. The guard also eliminates the possibility of the hose turning the shut-off valve.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2004Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Inventor: Christina D. Pitts
-
Patent number: 7143779Abstract: A fluid delivering hydrant providing a valve actuated assembly with enclosing shroud and water resistive doom handle assembly to protect the assembly from exposure to the weather while preventing entry of rainwater into a building structure upon the roof of which the device has been installed.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2002Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Inventor: Philip A. Parker
-
Patent number: 7111637Abstract: An enclosure for a pressure relief device, particularly pressure relief devices mounted on electrical equipment housings, is pre-assembled together with the pressure relief device. The enclosure, which provides for temporarily confining and directing fluids discharged from the pressure relief device, is pre-assembled leaving a clearance space so that the pressure relief device can be mounted on the housing with the enclosure system in place. A peripheral shield with an opening for attaching the enclosure to a discharge pipe or other duct work remains rotatable until deliberately secured in place. Components can be shared between the enclosure and the pressure relief device to provide a more efficient and cost effective design.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2003Date of Patent: September 26, 2006Assignee: Qualitrol CorporationInventor: Joshua J. Herz
-
Patent number: 7097164Abstract: In order to improve a limiter cap (300; 300?) for limiting the adjustability of at least two set screws or valves (200), which are arranged side by side, with each set screw or valve (200) including at least one retaining nose or stop leg (240), extending in the transition area between the screw head (210) and the screw needle or valve needle (220) in a ring shape around the external circumference of the screw needle or valve needle (220), in particular for limiting the adjustment of the fuel flow through a carburetor (400; 400?), in such a way that inadvertently pushing the limiter cap onto the screw needle thus prematurely blocking said screw needle, already at the time when the (basic) carburetor adjustment takes place, is safely prevented, it is proposed that the limiting cap (300; 300?) is attached to each of the set screws (200) in particular in a way so as to be self-attaching, and/or in particular such that the limiter caps (300; 300?) engage each other with locking action, and/or without any furtherType: GrantFiled: February 2, 2005Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: Dolmar GmbHInventors: Christian Vick, Carsten Ziegs
-
Patent number: 7097165Abstract: A carburetor fuel valve adjustment and limiter assembly for a combustion engine limits the maximum and minimum fuel amounts delivered through the valve of the carburetor. A needle valve of the adjustment and limiter assembly cooperates with a collar and pin generally located axially inward of an enlarged valve head. The collar of the limiter assembly is arranged telescopically with a valve shaft and yieldably biased to lock to the head when moved in an axially outward direction. When locked, and upon rotation of the valve, first and second stops carried by the collar are arranged to bear on a stationary pin carried by a carburetor body. During manufacture, the collar can be pushed axially inward against the bias of a spring to disengage the collar from the head to permit rotation of the needle valve while the collar remains stationary for unlimited adjustment of the needle valve.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2005Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: Walbro Engine Management, L.L.C.Inventor: Matthew A. Braun
-
Patent number: 7096882Abstract: A valve security device for releasably securing a fluid flow valve in an inoperable position including an inner body adapted to be disposed about the valve actuator such that rotation of the inner body effects corresponding rotation of the actuator to open and close the valve and an outer body rotatably mounted about the inner body. A valve cap defining a secondary actuator is mounted on the outer body. An operating pin assembly is carried by the outer body which, in an extended position, operatively couples the outer body to the inner body such that the valve can be controlled by the secondary actuator. In a retracted position, the pin assembly uncouples the outer and inner bodies such that the outer body is freely rotatable on the inner body. A lock secures the operating pin assembly in the retracted position thereby releasably securing the valve in an inoperable position.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2005Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Assignee: Flow Security Systems, Inc.Inventors: Mark Nickeas, Martin Nickeas
-
Patent number: 7089956Abstract: A portable pressurized gas delivery system with impact protection includes a pressure regulator device comprised of a shut-off valve/refill portion, a pressure regulation portion and a flow control portion. The pressure regulator device is attached via a mating machine threaded portion to a high pressure gas vessel or tank. An adapter or flange washer is situated between the regulator device and tank. A u-shaped handle is attached to the flange washer and extends along side and beyond the height of the gas pressure regulator. A circular ring is transversely attached to the u-shaped handle and situated to surround the regulator device thereby providing impact protection from all directions for the gas pressure regulator device. The pressure regulator device and flange washer include mechanical alignment mechanisms so that angular alignment of the devices is established.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2003Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Inventors: Gilbert Davidson, Brian R. Davidson, Goldshtrakh I. Lev
-
Patent number: 7082961Abstract: An apparatus for flood relief comprising a bell shaped hollow body having a top, a bottom, a top opening suitable for attaching a hose, and a bottom opening; a base ring having a center opening, a bottom surface, a side, an adhesive material on the bottom surface, and a protective sheet attached to the adhesive material; and a hose having the means for attaching said hose to the top opening of the body, whereby the protective sheet is removed from the adhesive material on the bottom surface of the base ring and the base ring is placed on the floor of a basement so that the center opening of the base ring is juxtaposed with a drain opening and the body is screwed on the base ring and the hose is attached to the body whereby water that rises through a basement trap will pass through the body and the hose and will be deposited onto a yard of a house.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2004Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Inventor: Linda Phillips
-
Patent number: 7077387Abstract: An adjustment system for a carburetor of an engine places a housing structure around the head of an adjustment screw to inhibit access to the head of the idle fuel adjustment screw except by properly trained technicians who possess an appropriately shaped tool which allows this access. In this way, the housing can function as intended, to limit access by untrained personnel to the idle fuel adjustment screw, while not requiring that it be completely removed or destroyed in order to allow appropriate access by trained personnel.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2005Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Brunswick CorporationInventors: Brian R. White, Frank A. Robinson
-
Patent number: 7070173Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting the air-fuel ratio of a fuel mixture to be supplied to an engine. The apparatus has a pair of needle valve bodies and a pair of receptacles formed in a main body of a carburetor for receiving the needle valve bodies. Each needle valve body has a needle and a head. The needles are axially movable relative to a respective needle orifice. The needles may be axially advanced and retracted by rotating the needle valve bodies within the receptacles to respectively decrease and increase the flow of the fuel mixture around the needles and through the orifices. To prevent tampering with the needle valve body setting, the head of the needle valve body has an unconventional shape requiring a specialized tool to rotatably adjust the needle valve body. To further prevent tampering, the head is recessed with the main body of the carburetor.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2005Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: Walbro Engine Management, L.L.C.Inventors: Paul J. Dow, Hiroki Ogasawara, Tetsuya Takahashi, Toshimasa Takahashi, Giovanni Vimercati
-
Patent number: 7066191Abstract: A system and method for providing process chemicals. The system includes a housing comprising a functional component positioned in a first compartment, a control module positioned in a second compartment and at least one connecting line positioned in a third compartment. At least one compartment is positioned in a defined location in the housing. Modules may be removable received in their respective compartments.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2003Date of Patent: June 27, 2006Assignee: Kinetics Germany GmbHInventors: Todd Graves, Martin Vondran, Martin Benzinger
-
Patent number: 7051747Abstract: A weather cap for gas valve comprising a gas valve vent attachment member for securing to a gas valve vent outlet, a cover connected to the gas valve vent attachment member with the cover and the gas valve attachment member forming a housing having a chamber therein, a vent limiter located in the chamber, a first gas passage in the housing for permitting ingress and egress of gas into the chamber from a gas valve, and a second gas passage in the housing with the second gas passage opened to the atmosphere to permit venting of gas to the atmosphere with the second gas passage being located on an underside of the chamber to thereby shield the vent limiter from blockage by preventing rain or snow from entering the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2003Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Inventor: Joseph Underwood
-
Patent number: 7051996Abstract: In a plug-style valve, such as an air-conditioning service plug-style valve, basically including a valve body, a stem, a retainer including a service fitting and a valve core, and a cap, the plug including an intermediate O-ring, between the valve body and the plug, disposed in an intermediate O-ring seal groove of a serpentine shape and having integral first and second O-ring groove portions, the intermediate O-ring being stretched a predetermined amount during installation and defining, therebetween and the valve body and the plug, a closed volume without a primary lateral passage in the plug, with the O-ring stretching preferably being in excess of about 15% to offset refrigerant medium absorption effects that will cause the O-ring to swell, become too large and become loose within its retaining groove, with the single cap including a redundant seal that covers both the valve actuation stem and the service fittingType: GrantFiled: November 6, 2004Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventor: Jeffrey M. Grau
-
Patent number: 7044148Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a locking apparatus adapted to interface with a valve and to selectively secure the valve in an open or closed position. More specifically, a valve handle lock is provided which is tamper resistant and is generally capable of use with valves produced by many manufacturers. The present invention further includes a locking mechanism that shrouds a portion of the valve handle attachment hardware and which can be used in conjunction with a typical padlock or other type of securement mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2004Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: Sabber Design & ManufacturingInventors: James Jacob Berger, Steven A. Berger
-
Patent number: 7040342Abstract: A fire hydrant security arrangement includes a center post which is retained on the operating nut of the fire hydrant by a central bolt which is threaded into the operating nut. The center post has a pentagonal recess therein which receives an insert, the insert having an inner recess which corresponds in shape to the operating nut. A domed housing is slid over the operating nut and can rotate with respect thereto. A circular groove in the center post receives a projection from a security plug which has been threaded through a threaded bore in the domed housing. The security plug has a socket therein which includes a recess which is off-set slightly from the axis of the plug and is only operable by a security tool having an off-set projection that is receivable in the recess. Without possession of the security tool, it is very difficult to achieve sufficient purchase on the plug to rotate the plug and withdraw the plug sufficiently away from the circular groove in the center post to remove the domed housing.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2005Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Assignee: Custodian Patent, L.L.C.Inventors: Fred J. Stehling, Terry R. McWilliams, Roy Istre, Jr.
-
Patent number: 7032616Abstract: A gas and liquid storage tank dome shell protective cover for engaging the edge of a U-shaped opening in a dome shell to seal the opening and the storage tank service line extending through the opening to prevent creatures big and small from entering into the dome shell to build nests which shield includes a service line engaging opening having a 360° series of radio slits forming a circular series of pointed flaps which fits snuggly against the service line to provide a circular seal for the service line.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2005Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Inventors: Darrel R. Calhoun, Robert G. Holcombe
-
Patent number: 7011291Abstract: A handle (2) as actuating device for valves (1) is proposed, comprising a fastening head (10) for fastening to a spindle (7) of the valve (1) and an actuating arm (11) for rotatably actuating the spindle, the spindle (7) being arranged in a valve housing (5) so as to be rotatable about the axis of rotation of a sealing part, the actuating arm (11) being arranged to be movable perpendicularly to the axis of the spindle (7) from a closed position into an open position of the valve (1). The actuating arm (11) has means (14) for preventing the actuation of the handle (2), the fastening head (10) has a fastening means (21) for fastening the handle (2) to the valve spindle (7), and the handle (2) has a sealing plate (15) for sealing the fastening means (21).Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2004Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Assignee: Georg Fischer Rohrleitungssysteme AGInventors: Jürgen Miklo, Walter Schäpper
-
Patent number: 6994106Abstract: A locking device to inhibit unauthorized operation of a fire hydrant includes a locking plug having a bottom opening that fits over an actuating nut of the hydrant. The locking plug has a cylindrically-shaped body formed with an upper actuator nut. A peripheral groove in a sidewall of the plug body is located above a set of inward extending, threaded bores for set screws to affix the locking plug to the hydrant actuating nut. Fitting over the plug is a cap having a passageway that intersects tangentially with the plug groove. A locking pin on a hasp bracket then is inserted into the cap passageway to form an interference fit with the plug groove. Rotating the bracket upward positions a staple post on the cap in a slot in the hasp bracket. A padlock then secures the position of the hasp bracket to inhibit access to the plug actuator nut and operatively connected hydrant actuating nut.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2004Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Assignees: Plasticsworks, Inc., Utility Supply of America, Inc.Inventors: Charles L. Hackley, Gerald J. Weiland, King C. Embry
-
Patent number: 6990995Abstract: A valve-leaf protective structure for pressure regulator of air tank used in diving mainly includes a valve-leaf seat being provided at a lower center with a retaining hole and at two sides with two raised supports, each of which is provided at an upper inner surface with a rotary shaft hole; and a valve-leaf protective cover located between the two raised supports of the valve-leaf seat, and provided at two upper outer ends with two sideward projected rotary shafts for rotatably mounted in the two rotary holes on the raised supports. A lower side of the protective cover is formed into a tongue having a hook provided at a lowermost end thereof to detachably engage with the retaining hole at the lower center of the valve-leaf seat. Therefore, the protective cover may be pivotally turned about the rotary shafts between the raised supports to close or open the valve-leaf seat.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2003Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Inventor: Hsing-Chi Hsieh
-
Patent number: 6971401Abstract: An apparatus includes a cylindrical body that is formed from soft and resilient material and has a smooth outer surface provided with surface indicia coated thereon that has a fluorescent color for drawing attention thereto. The body further has a bore formed therein that extends through the length thereof and has an open and a closed end portion. An aperture is formed in the body that penetrates the body and terminates laterally of the bore. A sleeve formed from rigid material is nested within the bore, confronts an interior surface of the body and spans between the open and closed end portions of the body. A tether is included that has opposed end portions connected to the body and the valve assembly. The tether is attached proximate to one end portion of the body such that the apparatus can be detached while the tether remains engaged with the valve assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2005Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Inventor: Samuel B. Carpenter
-
Patent number: 6948512Abstract: A device and method for automatically flushing hydrants. The device is installed externally to an existing hydrant. The device comprises a nipple having an internally threaded collar for attaching the device to a hydrant outlet, a valve, a control for automatically operating the valve, and a lockable box containing at least the valve, the box having an outlet for allowing water from the hydrant to pass from the valve to the exterior of the box. The box functions as an enclosure and may be of any desired configuration.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2004Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: John C. Kupferle Foundry Co.Inventor: Daniel G. McKeague
-
Patent number: 6941964Abstract: A safety device prevents access to the gas valve of a propane tank. The device includes a cup which fits over the valve, and a locking device for preventing the cup from being lifted from the valve. In some embodiments, the device includes a handle which allows the tank to be carried easily while the safety device is installed. In at least one embodiment, there is no handle. The device prevents children, and other unauthorized persons, from operating the valve, and thus prevents the accidental release of flammable gas.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2004Date of Patent: September 13, 2005Inventors: James Hess, William Y. Potter, Wendel Angel
-
Patent number: 6935360Abstract: A fire hydrant protective cover and visibility marker comprising a hollow body having an interior space, a cap portion, middle portion and bottom portion, the bottom portion having an opening for accessing the interior space.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2003Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Inventor: Leonard V. Knappmiller
-
Patent number: 6926024Abstract: A lockout device to secure access to a pipeline valve through a utility valve box having an inwardly directed ring is described. The lockout device includes a tube with a shackle, a plate with an opening, and a lock. As installed, the tube fits within an interior space of the utility valve box. The lock locks the plate and tube together. The width of the plate is greater than the inner diameter of the ring.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: KeySpan CorporationInventor: Michael J. McEnerney
-
Patent number: 6920894Abstract: A valve security device for releasably securing a fluid flow valve in an inoperable position including an inner body adapted to be disposed about the valve actuator such that rotation of the inner body effects corresponding rotation of the actuator to open and close the valve and an outer body rotatably mounted about the inner body. A valve cap defining a secondary actuator is mounted on the outer body. An operating pin assembly is carried by the outer body which, in an extended position, operatively couples the outer body to the inner body such that the valve can be controlled by the secondary actuator. In a retracted position, the pin assembly uncouples the outer and inner bodies such that the outer body is freely rotatable on the inner body. A lock secures the operating pin assembly in the retracted position thereby releasably securing the valve in an inoperable position.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2004Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Assignee: Flow Security Systems, Inc.Inventors: Mark Nickeas, Martin Nickeas
-
Patent number: 6913034Abstract: An emergency shutdown valve actuator includes a support and a fluid activated actuator drive secured to the support. Clamps are provided for clamping the support onto a tubular member. A drive key is provided which is adapted to couple the actuator drive and a female receptacle of a valve member, such that movement of the actuator drive is transmitted via the drive key to the valve member to move the valve member between an open and a closed position. The actuator drive is coupled to a fluid source controlled from a remote control panel such that fluid is supplied to activate the actuator drive in the event of an emergency.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2003Date of Patent: July 5, 2005Inventor: David Bruce Szafron
-
Patent number: 6901950Abstract: Fire hydrant locking devices prevent fire hydrants from being turned on without a key. A fire hydrant has a keyhole in its sidewall. A security bolt is threadedly inserted into the keyhole with one end frictionally engaging with the valve stem in the interior of the fire hydrant in one embodiment. In an alternative embodiment, the security bolt pushes a locking pin through a locking pin hole in the valve stem. The security bolt has key projections that are accessed through the keyhole by a key wrench. The key wrench has key slots that mate with the key projections. The key wrench has a handle for applying torque to the security bolt. The fire hydrant has hose connection ports connected to its sidewall that are removably covered by covers.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2004Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Inventors: James E. Burt, Fredrick D. Ireland
-
Patent number: 6889394Abstract: A device for covering a water faucet handle, and thereby denying access to the handle by small children and others lacking the mental discernment to appreciate and consider the consequences of their actions. The device comprises a generally L-shaped mounting member that is placed over the faucet handle and attached to a structural wall, and a generally rectangular, box-shaped cover that is hingedly connected to the mounting member. The device is held in its closed and locked position by a pair of spring fingers, defined by two parallel notches in the lateral sidewalls of the cover, wherein the catch member, which is located on the terminal end of each spring finger, is engaged with a catch slot in the spring finger catch that is located on the mounting member. The device is opened by simultaneously applying a lateral force to both spring fingers and rotating the cover downward.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2002Date of Patent: May 10, 2005Inventor: Paula Guillen
-
Patent number: 6886587Abstract: A housing (10) for mounting on a mounting surface and for supporting and protectively enclosing a regulator (12) and one or more gauges (14,16) associated with providing, controlling, and monitoring a flow of gas from a pressurized gas supply, such as is commonly used, for example, in welding, cutting, and otherwise heating metal. The housing (10) comprises a front (20); a left side (22); a right side (24); a top (26), including a bolt flange (28); a bottom (30); a hinge (32); and a securement mechanism (34). The hinge (32) allows for easy access to the regulator (12) and gauges (14,16) without requiring that the housing (10) be completely removed from the mounting surface. The securement mechanism (34) includes one or more isolation mechanisms (64,68) for reducing or substantially eliminating transmission of potentially accuracy-affecting or otherwise damaging vibrations to the regulator (12) and gauges (14,16).Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2002Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Assignee: PARAgon Holdings, LLCInventor: Bob W. Fancher
-
Patent number: 6871518Abstract: A removable retaining bracket that prevents removal of a connection fitting from a gas distribution system component is described. The retaining bracket has a base that defines an opening that accepts the connection fitting and prevents removal of the fitting from the gas distribution component. The retaining bracket extends along the gas distribution system component and defines openings in which a securing component is positioned. The openings are positioned to locate the securing component to prevent removal of the retaining bracket.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2002Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Engineered Controls International Inc.Inventors: Jason L. Olsen, Vincent J. Avillion
-
Patent number: 6820639Abstract: Thermal covers for backflow prevention assemblies disclosed to prevent freeze-ups have a cover body with a thermal top wall, opposed thermal side walls that flex toward and away from one another, opposed normally closed ends, a variable shaped bottom opening and an adjustable closure for said bottom opening. The side walls spread apart and said cover body fits down over said backflow prevention assembly with said bottom closure open. The bottom opening is closed by the bottom closure to a reduced size and fits around and against at least one of the vertical pipes connected to the backflow prevention assembly. A second embodiment has cover ends that are selectively opened and closed by adjustable end closures similar to the adjustable bottom closure. Opposed velcro-type co-operative first and second fastening members are used. The second embodiment opens up into a flat blanket-like configuration.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2002Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: Tepsin'sInventor: Eric Bradley Petschek
-
Publication number: 20040226610Abstract: A lockout device to secure access to a pipeline valve through a utility valve box having an inwardly directed ring is described. The lockout device includes a tube with a shackle, a plate with an opening, and a lock. As installed, the tube fits within an interior space of the utility valve box. The lock locks the plate and tube together. The width of the plate is greater than the inner diameter of the ring.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2003Publication date: November 18, 2004Inventor: Michael J. McEnerney
-
Patent number: 6817482Abstract: Safety shield apparatus for a bottled gas tank valve includes a cover which fits over the valve and an internal flange or plate within the cover that fits underneath the valve handle. A tail portion secured to the cover extends outwardly beyond the vertically extending flange which is disposed arcuately about the valve handle and which comprises also a handle for the bottle. The tail portion includes holes which receive a lock to prevent the shield apparatus from being removed from the bottled gas tank.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2002Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Inventor: Thomas W. Borter
-
Patent number: 6807691Abstract: A plumbing valve cover is disclosed for use in conjunction with under-sink plumbing to avoid interference with the operation of a flexible spray nozzle hose used in conjunction with a spray nozzle. The plumbing valve cover may be coupled to the under-sink plumbing or cabinet wall. The plumbing valve cover may partially cover the under-sink plumbing and include clearances for multiple plumbing lines which may exit a supply valve. The plumbing valve cover may include markings to aid in sizing the cover to variations in the length of a supply line. The preferred embodiment would be a single piece, injection molded plastic apparatus which includes structural ribs and C-shaped mounting clips which mechanically couple the plumbing valve cover to the supply valve.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2003Date of Patent: October 26, 2004Inventor: Allen D. Hertz
-
Patent number: 6799600Abstract: A protective metal housing is disclosed for an air admittance valve having a head and a hollow stem adapted for coupling to a sewer vent pipe. The housing comprises a cylindrical adaptor having a through passage internally configured for connection at one end to the sewer vent pipe, and for connection at an opposite end to the stem of the valve. A cover is structured and dimensioned to coact with the adaptor in defining an enclosed chamber for containing the head of the valve. The cover is removably secured to the adaptor and has inlet openings arranged to admit ambient air into the enclosed chamber.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2002Date of Patent: October 5, 2004Assignee: IPS CorporationInventor: Calvin P. O'Neal
-
Patent number: 6789782Abstract: An improved ball valve (1), in particular for gas systems, includes a tampering indicating seal (25) made by injection molding a synthetic or metal material into cavities (19; 21; 22) formed in the screw-clamping nut assembly (11, 13) and including a cap outer portion (29) which substantially covers the surface of the outer face of the nut (13) and/or extending (29A) on the side surface of the nut (13).Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2003Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Giacomini S.p.A.Inventor: Luca Giacomini
-
Patent number: 6772453Abstract: A faucet lock for use with a lavatory sink faucet having at least one water valve control handle, the faucet lock comprising a base, a bracket, having first and second ends thereof, wherein the first end is adjustably attached to the base such that the second end is positionable adjacent to the control handle preventing the control handle from opening the water valve, thus locking the water valve in a closed position, wherein the faucet lock prevents small children, disabled persons and others from unauthorized use of the water valve. The present invention faucet lock is a safety device to protect children and others especially special needs persons with spasticity or other disabilities from accidentally being exposed to hot water.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2001Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Inventors: Jonathan Fine, Mark Lindholm
-
Publication number: 20040123905Abstract: Thermal covers for backflow prevention assemblies disclosed to prevent freeze-ups have a cover body with a thermal top wall, opposed thermal side walls that flex toward and away from one another, opposed normally closed ends, a variable shaped bottom opening and an adjustable closure for said bottom opening. The side walls spread apart and said cover body fits down over said backflow prevention assembly with said bottom closure open. The bottom opening is closed by the bottom closure to a reduced size and fits around and against at least one of the vertical pipes connected to the backflow prevention assembly. A second embodiment has cover ends that are selectively opened and closed by adjustable end closures similar to the adjustable bottom closure. Opposed velcro-type co-operative first and second fastening members are used. The second embodiment opens up into a flat blanket-like configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2002Publication date: July 1, 2004Inventor: Eric Bradley Petschek
-
Patent number: 6732758Abstract: A fluid shock absorber assembly having a shut-off valve, a water hammer arrester device and a water inlet. The assembly is comprised of a low profile adaptor structure constructed and arranged to permit the assembly to be mounted in a housing enclosure for aligning and joining water lines to form washing machine and icemaker connection structures. The housing enclosure which mounts to a building structure is designed to further allow the fluid shock absorber assembly components to be installed, maintained and replaced therein.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2001Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Oatey Co.Inventor: Raun A. Kopp
-
Publication number: 20040084086Abstract: An insulating cover for outdoor faucets. In a described embodiment, an insulating cover includes inner and outer transparent housings. An insulating air space is formed between the housings. Baffles in the air space substantially prevent air flow through the air space.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2002Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventor: Robert S. Stachowiak
-
Patent number: 6712089Abstract: A recessed, frostproof water faucet having a tubular stem connected to a pivot plumbing unit connected to a subsurface water line through the rear wall of a box-like recess unit. A slider connector connects the water faucet tubular stem and the access panel or lid of the recess unit. The lid pivots on hinges and as one lifts the lid, the faucet is lifted by the slider connector from a horizontal storage position to a vertical locked position for use, the slider connector being connected to a faucet flange and sliding along grooves in tracks mounted along the inner side of the lid. A sliding hinge locks the lid upright, sliding downward along the upper end of the rear wall. The faucet is returned to the storage position by pulling upward and lowering to the closed position, the slider connector sliding forward along the grooves to the stored position.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2003Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Inventor: Danny Heflin
-
Patent number: 6695003Abstract: A gas isolation box including an enclosure; a number of gas sticks contained within the enclosure, each gas stick including a process gas section comprising a first process gas inlet valve for gating the flow of a process gas into the gas stick; a purge gas section including a purge valve for gating the flow of a purge gas into the gas stick; and an evacuation section including a first evacuation valve for gating the exiting of a process gas or a purge gas from the gas stick, a bleed valve which in a closed position allows process gas to bleed through the bleed valve and in an open position allows purge gas to freely flow through the bleed valve, and a vacuum generator module which pulls a vacuum to evacuate a purge gas or any remaining process gas in the gas stick or the tool through the first evacuation valve and the bleed valve and out from the gas stick to an exhaust stream.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2003Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventor: Robert Raymond Young, Jr.
-
Patent number: 6691732Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrant locking device to be used in conjunction with a fire hydrant having locking nuts which includes, a base arm having a first base arm portion and a second base arm portion. A top arm extends upwardly from the base arm and includes a top arm cap for covering at least one of the locking nuts. The first base arm portion is detachably secured to the second base arm portion, wherein the base arm and the top arm are secured to the fire hydrant when the first base arm portion is secured to the second base arm portion.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2003Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Mueller InternationalInventors: Leo W. Fleury, Jr., Mikail German, Ken Clark
-
Patent number: 6688327Abstract: A water meter cover including a pipe segment having an outside diameter, having upper and lower ends, and having annular outer and inner surfaces; a pipe cap closely fitted to the outside diameter of the pipe segment, the pipe cap having a downwardly facing surface; a first adhesive layer disposed between the pipe cap and pipe segment, the first adhesive layer fixedly attaching the pipe cap to the upper end of the pipe segment; an elastic foam sheet having an outer surface; and a second adhesive layer disposed between the elastic foam sheet and the pipe segment, the second adhesive layer fixedly attaching the outer surface of the elastic foam sheet to the annular inner surface of the pipe segment.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2002Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Inventor: Mark C. Baker
-
Patent number: 6688326Abstract: A locking fire hydrant includes a fire hydrant body having an outlet port, a valve access hole, and an outer surface with a recess defined therein. The recess is configured to receive a locking cap for closing off the outlet port and the valve access hole. A locking cap for closing off the outlet port and the valve access hole is mounted on the fire hydrant body such that the locking cap is received in the recess defined in the outer surface of the fire hydrant body. The recess shields an interface between the locking cap and the fire hydrant body from access by unauthorized tools. A fire hydrant body, a method for restricting unauthorized access to a fire hydrant, and a method for locking an auxiliary cap to a fire hydrant also are described.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2002Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Inventor: George Sigelakis
-
Patent number: 6675827Abstract: A cap assembly for closing an access opening in a plumbing fitting includes a cap for rotatable attachment to the plumbing fitting, with the cap having an interior surface which faces the plumbing fitting. There is an elastomeric friction ring positioned between the cap interior surface and the plumbing fitting, which friction ring has a plurality of circumferentially spaced projections facing and in contact with the plumbing fitting. The projections are formed and adapted to require less torque when the cap is rotatably attached to the plumbing fitting than when said cap is rotatably removed from the plumbing fitting.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: Sloan Valve CompanyInventors: John R. Wilson, Steven R. Oliver