Locks Against Rotary Motion Patents (Class 137/385)
  • Patent number: 7731153
    Abstract: A handle (1) for valves (4) comprising a connecting region (2) for connecting the handle (1) to a spindle (5) of the valve (4), an actuating arm (3) for actuating the valve (4), a locking lever (8) arranged resiliently in the actuating arm (3) for engaging the actuating arm (3) and a locking and guide disc (16) for locking and guiding the handle (1), the locking and guide disc (16) having a greater external diameter than the connecting region (2) and being arranged to be able to be connected to a flange region (12) of the valve (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Georg Fischer Rohrleitungssysteme AG
    Inventors: Jürgen Miklo, Peter Tkaczyk
  • Patent number: 7694938
    Abstract: A distal rate control device, which can be conveniently interposed between a fluid supply line and fluid delivery line for precisely controlling the rate of fluid flow toward the delivery line. The device includes a readily adjustable flow rate control device having a novel flow control plate that can be placed in fluid communication with the fluid supply line and with the fluid delivery line. The flow control plate is provided with a plurality of elongated fluidic flow control channels that are in communication with a rate selector member that is rotatably carried by the device housing. Rotation of the rate selector member places a selected one of the flow control channels in communication with the fluid delivery line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: BioQuiddity, Inc.
    Inventors: Marshall S. Kriesel, Joshua W. Kriesel, Alan D. Langerud, Donald B Bivin
  • Publication number: 20100024900
    Abstract: The invention concerns axial locking of a valve shaft to be non-turnably attached to a closing element of a valve, an end of the shaft to be attached to the closing element being machined on two opposite sides in order to fit into a pivot recess formed in the outer perimeter of the closing element. The invention is characterized by a collar part to be fitted to said end of the shaft and to be turned into a locking position, one of the end surfaces of the main part of said collar part having at least one axial projection that fits into the pivot recess of the closing element of the valve when the collar part is in the locking position and the end of the shaft is positioned into the pivot recess of the closing element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: Metso Automation OY
    Inventor: Terho Vuojamo
  • Publication number: 20090229682
    Abstract: A regulator valve includes a duct, a valve element, and an actuator. The duct has an inner surface defining a flow passage. The valve element is movably disposed within the flow passage between an open position, in which fluid is permitted to flow through the flow passage, and a closed position, in which fluid is restricted from flowing through the flow passage. The actuator is coupled to the valve element and at least facilitates movement thereof between the closed and open positions and locking of the valve element in an intermediate position therebetween. The actuator comprises a shaft and a locking system. The shaft is coupled to the valve element and moves therewith. The locking system is coupled to the shaft and is activated when the valve element is in the intermediate position, to thereby at least inhibit movement of the shaft and the valve element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Laurie Fowler, Rudy Velasquez, Joe Sega, Ed Dismukes
  • Patent number: 7588050
    Abstract: A cap permanently indicates the occurrence of tampering with a gas service valve. A substantially square base has intersecting slots differently sized to confine correspondingly sized valve cocks against rotational motion. A dome on the base covers the slots and the valve cock. Two ties of adjustable length secure the base against the valve body. The base, dome and ties are of material which is permanently altered by application of force to disorient the mounted cap sufficiently to permit operation of the valve cock. Removal of excess portions of the ties makes reuse difficult, if not impossible. The dome may be transparent so that the orientation of the valve cock can be observed without removing the cap from the valve. Markings on the dome indicate the orientation of the valve cock when the cap was installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventor: Jim L. Russell
  • Patent number: 7581420
    Abstract: A lockout device is provided for an instrument having a body and an actuating member extending from the body for operating the instrument. The lockout device includes a bottom member, a cover member, and a flexible member. The bottom member is adapted to be positioned over the body and includes a first holding portion and an aperture for receiving the actuating member. The cover member is connectable to the bottom member for movement between a closed position and an open position, and includes a covering portion for covering the actuating member in the closed position, and a second holding portion adapted to abut the first holding portion in the closed position. The flexible member has a first end connected to one of the bottom member and the cover member. The bottom member and cover member are adapted to receive a cinching portion of the flexible member between the first and second holding portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Master Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Rebecca Manthe, Frank Scott, Michael Brojanac, Scott Czarnecki
  • Patent number: 7390310
    Abstract: A locking assembly is provided to simply and effectively prevent any unintentional adjustment of the adjustable valve mechanism in a fluid flow control device, without compromising the function of the device. The locking assembly generally includes at least one gripping arm for frictionally engaging at least a portion of the adjustable valve mechanism, and an actuating mechanism for controlling the deployment and release of the gripping arm. The locking assembly prevents unintentional adjustments that can adversely affect the pressure settings of the fluid flow control device. In particular, the locking assembly prevents unintentional adjustment, such as may be caused by the presence of a strong external magnetic field. The locking assembly can be easily disengaged, such as through the application or removal of an external mechanical force, to allow a clinician to adjust the pressure settings of the fluid flow control device as necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Codman & Shurtleff, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel McCusker, Alan J. Dextradeur, Rainuka Gupta, Carleton Bryan Southworth
  • Patent number: 7360554
    Abstract: A control valve assembly and for a gas delivery system is disclosed comprising a valve housing and piping combination adapted to mate with a gas meter outlet, the valve including a main inlet and an auxiliary inlet for bypassing the main inlet, and a poppet disposed within the housing for selectively opening the respective inlets and for closing both inlets. The poppet is controlled by a valve stem extending into the valve housing and coupled to the poppet, such that rotation of the valve stem orients the poppet in the predetermined positions to selectively open the respective inlets. The valve stem is rotated using a lever arm extending radially from the valve stem, where the lever arm is adapted to carry a locking member at a distal end. When the locking member is carried by the lever arm, rotation of the lever arm may be denied due to interference of the locking member with the valve housing, and the poppet in such case prevents flow through either of the inlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: R.W. Lyall & Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Huetinck
  • Patent number: 7347219
    Abstract: A meter bar and meter bar system are provided for directing a fluid. The meter bar includes a first portion, a second portion and a bypass path extending between the first and second portions. The first portion includes a first service port, a first meter port and a first valve. The second portion includes a second service port, a second meter port and a second valve. Each of the first and second valves are movable between metering positions and bypass positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: A. Y. McDonald Mfg. Co.
    Inventors: Jon Gohde, Brian Kretz
  • Patent number: 7334594
    Abstract: A shunt valve assembly includes an electromechanical brake mechanism that locks a position of a pressure setting mechanism within a shunt valve assembly. The electromechanical brake can maintain the position of the pressure setting mechanism in the presence of a relatively strong magnetic field to maintain a set pressure differential within the shunt valve assembly. In certain cases, the shunt valve requires repositioning of the pressure setting mechanism within the shunt valve assembly to adjust a fluid flow rate through the shunt valve assembly. A clinician can activate an external controller to transmit a signal to the shunt valve assembly through magnetically coupled antennas between the controller and the shunt valve. The shunt valve assembly utilizes the signal to activate the braking mechanism and unlock the pressure setting mechanism. The clinician then operates the controller to non-invasively reposition the pressure setting mechanism and adjust the pressure at which the shunt valve opens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Codman & Shurtleff, Inc.
    Inventor: Lev Ludin
  • Patent number: 7219685
    Abstract: A locking device for gate valves utilizes an available lock and avoids the necessity of having to chain or weld the lock to the bonnet or other stationary portion of a standard gate valve. The locking device includes a bracket, which mounts securely to one of the truss members of the gate valve. The bracket also includes an upwardly projecting mast, which is inserted between the adjacent spokes of the hand wheel. A cap is seated onto the hand wheel and the mast of the bracket installed on the gate valve. The cap includes a mast port though which the upper end of the mast projects when the cap is seated on the hand wheel. In certain embodiments, the cap covers all of the spokes on the hand wheel and has a number of downwardly projecting spaced spoke detents that are inserted into the openings between the adjacent spokes of the hand wheel. The secure and easy installation of the cap onto the mast of the bracket and the hand wheel prevents rotation of the hand wheel and adjustment of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Inventor: Roger Espinoza
  • Patent number: 7207198
    Abstract: A lockout assembly suitable for use with a valve having a handle rotatable between an open position and a closed position includes a lock arm which supports a clamping mechanism. In one aspect of the invention, the lock arm includes a longitudinal slot having slot ends. The clamping mechanism is engagable with the handle for clamping thereto and includes a threaded stud extending through the slot. The threaded stud is slidable in the slot between the slot ends. In another aspect of the invention, the clamping mechanism includes a locking knife and body. The body is interposed between the lock arm and locking knife, and includes an opening for slidably receiving the threaded stud therethrough. The locking knife is axially fixed to an end of the threaded stud and is moveable relative to the body for clamping onto the handle interposed between the locking knife and body. The locking knife includes a lower jaw having a distal end and a proximal end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Brady Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven J. Benda
  • Patent number: 7152621
    Abstract: A control valve assembly and for a gas delivery system is disclosed comprising a valve housing and piping combination adapted to mate with a gas meter outlet, the valve including a main inlet and an auxiliary inlet for bypassing the main inlet, and a poppet disposed within the housing for selectively opening the respective inlets and for closing both inlets. The poppet is controlled by a valve stem extending into the valve housing and coupled to the poppet, such that rotation of the valve stem orients the poppet in the predetermined positions to selectively open the respective inlets. The valve stem is rotated using a lever arm extending radially from the valve stem, where the lever arm is adapted to carry a locking member at a distal end. When the locking member is carried by the lever arm, rotation of the lever arm may be denied due to interference of the locking member with the valve housing, and the poppet in such case prevents flow through either of the inlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: R.W. Lyall & Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Huetinck
  • Patent number: 7140211
    Abstract: This invention relates to a security system aimed at closing and locking a cover of an opening of a tank trailer to avoid any tampering of its content and to prove that the content of the tank has not been tampered. The security system comprises a locking member movable between a lock position to prevent the opening of the cover, and an unlock position to allow the opening of the cover. The invention also comprises an actuating device mounted to the tank trailer operatively connected to the locking member for moving it between the lock and the unlock positions. A sealing mechanism engages the actuating device when the locking member is in the lock position to prevent any movement of the locking member. The sealing mechanism comprises a breakable indicator which is broken upon disengagement from the actuating device, thereby indicating that the openable cover has been tampered with.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Tremcar Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Tremblay
  • Patent number: 7117884
    Abstract: A valve locking device comprising an intermediate member (18) mountable between a valve body and valve actuator and securable to said valve body and/or actuator; a stem attachment member (20) attachable to and rotatable with a valve stem (14) and contained at least partially within said intermediate member, and an engagement member (22) movably located within said intermediate member for selective engagement with said stem attachment member; whereby in use, engagement between said engagement member and said stem attachment member prevents rotation of said stem attachment member, thus preventing rotation of said valve stem to operate the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Inventor: Charles Frederick Thomas Shuter
  • Patent number: 7114698
    Abstract: A locking device for quarter turn valves avoids the inadvertent, unauthorized or careless manipulation of quarter turn valves from a desired position thereby minimizing, if not eliminating, the likelihood for damage or injury in an industrial or other setting as a result of the unauthorized opening/closing of the valve. The locking device includes a shroud which is adapted to be placed over the upper end of the stem and adjacent portion of the handle on the valve. The shroud has a capping portion which securely engages a mounting pad of the valve and an upwardly extending channel designed to at least partially surround a portion of the handle. A hole is provided in the channel and aligns with a hole in an adjacent portion of the handle when the shroud is placed on the valve. As such, the post of a lock is easily inserted through the aligned holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Inventor: Roger Espinoza
  • Patent number: 7096882
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Flow Security Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Nickeas, Martin Nickeas
  • Patent number: 7044148
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Sabber Design & Manufacturing
    Inventors: James Jacob Berger, Steven A. Berger
  • Patent number: 6994106
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignees: Plasticsworks, Inc., Utility Supply of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles L. Hackley, Gerald J. Weiland, King C. Embry
  • Patent number: 6959909
    Abstract: A handle assembly mountable on a valve is disclosed. The assembly includes a head having a receptacle engageable with a rotatable shaft on the valve and a grip projecting outwardly from the head to facilitate turning of the head for actuating the valve. An arcuate slot is positioned in the head, the slot having a curvature matched to the arcuate motion of the handle when used to turn the valve shaft. A limit post is attached to the valve and projects through the slot. A jam nut is mounted on the post adjacent to the head. When tightened against the head the jam nut fixes the position of the head relatively to the valve. A bolt is positioned within the slot and retained by a nut. The bolt is movable along the slot to a predetermined position where it can be temporarily fixed by tightening the nut. The bolt acts as a memory stop when it engages the limit post as the head is turned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: Victaulic Company of America
    Inventors: Philip W. Bancroft, Steven A. Wortmann
  • Patent number: 6920894
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Flow Security Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Nickeas, Martin Nickeas
  • Patent number: 6918402
    Abstract: The present invention provides a flow control apparatus and method. In accordance with the present invention, the flow control apparatus comprises a thermostat that automatically actuates valve to enable water to flow through the valve when the temperature of the air or water is at or near the freezing temperature of water (32° F.). When the temperature of the air or water rises above freezing, the thermostat causes the valve to close, thereby preventing water from flowing through the valve. Therefore, when the apparatus is coupled to an end of a water conduit, such as a water spigot or hose, water is allowed to flow through the conduit when the air or water temperature is at or near freezing to prevent the conduit from bursting due to water freezing and expanding within the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Inventor: Bruce Harvey
  • Patent number: 6899128
    Abstract: A half ball valve includes a body including cavity having an assembly opening, a stem opening formed at a side of the body opposite to the assembly opening to connect the cavity and the outside, and a first connection hole inclined with respect to an axis of the stem opening. A ball is accommodated in the cavity of the body through the assembly opening to be capable of rotating to switch between an open position at which the first connection hole is open and a close position at which the first connection hole is blocked. A passage is formed in the ball inclined with respect to an axis of the stem opening and is connected to the first connection hole at the open position. A stem connects a control lever outside the body and the ball along the stem opening. A body cap having a second connection hole connected to the passage of the ball is coupled to the body to cover the cavity at the assembly opening side. A packing is interposed between an outer surface of the ball and an inner wall of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Inventor: Seung-Jun Oh
  • Patent number: 6880806
    Abstract: A valve gear includes a valve (30), which controls a flow rate of a fluid and an opening of which is determined according to a rotational position of a valve element, an actuator (20) for providing a rotational force to a rotary valve shaft that changes the opening of the valve (30), and attaching/detaching means. The attaching/detaching means includes a locking element (32) formed at its prescribed positions with locking concave/convex portions and an engaging element (22) formed at its prescribed positions with engaging concave/convex portions. The locking element (32) and the engaging element (22) are relatively rotatable around the rotary valve shaft up to a prescribed angle, and prevent the actuator (20) from coming off the valve (30) at an engaging position where the engaging concave/convex portions and the locking concave/convex portions are engaged with one another, and allow the actuator (20) and the valve (30) to be detached from each other at a disengaging position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Yamatake Corporation
    Inventors: Tomoyuki Haikawa, Kouichi Sekine
  • Patent number: 6843083
    Abstract: A lockable valve cover has a housing with an open end and a pair of opposing slots on opposite sides of the housing extending from the open end for engaging over spaced locations on a pipe on opposite sides of a valve over which the housing is placed, the pipe extending in a first direction through the slots. A pair of openings on opposite sides of the housing are aligned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction with a first opening being larger than a second opening, and a locking plate having a reduced width tongue engages across the housing through the openings, with the tongue projecting through the second opening. A padlock engages a hole in the tongue to lock the housing in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: LMS, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark R. Smith, Danny B. Green, Leonard W. Byrd, George S. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6832623
    Abstract: Disclosed is a gas meter valve for connection to an outlet of a gas meter and a method for its use. The gas meter valve comprises a valve inlet coupleable to the meter outlet, a valve outlet coupleable to piping for supplying gas to a customer and a valve body coupled to the valve inlet and the valve outlet. The valve body includes a chamber for communicating gas from the valve inlet to the valve outlet and a valve assembly disposed in the chamber and adapted to prevent the communication of gas through the chamber when the valve assembly is in a first position and permit the communication of gas through the chamber when the valve assembly is in a second position. The gas meter valve further includes an actuating mechanism coupled to the valve assembly for positioning the valve assembly in the first position and the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Basic Resources, Inc.
    Inventors: Danny A. Johnson, James S. Powell
  • Publication number: 20040226611
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: James Jacob Berger, Steven A. Berger
  • Patent number: 6786230
    Abstract: A valve lock to lock gate valves having a truss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Maurice Lacroix
  • Publication number: 20040094205
    Abstract: A valve locking device comprising an intermediate member (18) mountable between a valve body and valve actuator and securable to said valve body and/or actuator; a stem attachment member (20) attachable to and rotatable with a valve stem (14) and contained at least partially within said intermediate member, and an engagement member (22) movably located within said intermediate member for selective engagement with said stem attachment member; whereby in use, engagement between said engagement member and said stem attachment member prevents rotation of said stem attachment member, thus preventing rotation of said valve stem to operate the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventor: Charles Frederick Thomas Shuter
  • Patent number: 6691732
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Mueller International
    Inventors: Leo W. Fleury, Jr., Mikail German, Ken Clark
  • Publication number: 20030217771
    Abstract: A half ball valve includes a body including cavity having an assembly opening, a stem opening formed at a side of the body opposite to the assembly opening to connect the cavity and the outside, and a first connection hole inclined with respect to an axis of the stem opening. A ball is accommodated in the cavity of the body through the assembly opening to be capable of rotating to switch between an open position at which the first connection hole is open and a close position at which the first connection hole is blocked. A passage is formed in the ball inclined with respect to an axis of the stem opening and is connected to the first connection hole at the open position. A stem connects a control lever outside the body and the ball along the stem opening. A body cap having a second connection hole connected to the passage of the ball is coupled to the body to cover the cavity at the assembly opening side. A packing is interposed between an outer surface of the ball and an inner wall of the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventor: Seung-Jun Oh
  • Patent number: 6648009
    Abstract: A tamper-resistant by-pass valve prevents an unauthorized user from tampering with the valve when it is in the closed position to block gas flow to a meter being replaced or repaired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Jomar International
    Inventors: Paul Craig, Giulio Pettinaroli
  • Patent number: 6622536
    Abstract: A valve lock for securing the handle of a pipe. The valve lock includes a first housing having first and second contact points for engaging the pipe and a retention chamber that receives the handle. The first housing is in a final position to prevent rotation of the handle when the retention chamber receives the handle and the first and second contact points are seated against the pipe. A second housing has a third contact point for engaging the pipe and a lock member for disposition relative to the first housing when the first housing is in the final position and the third contact point is seated against the pipe. The lock member receives the shackle of a padlock to secure the lock member to the first housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Prinzing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Fuller, Chris Davis
  • Patent number: 6604391
    Abstract: A security lock assembly for a shut-off valve consisting of a valve body and an exterior engageable portion secured to a gate stem so as to rotate the stem. The body has a flange with a hole therein. The security lock assembly comprises a lock disk having a central opening for receiving the engageable portion. Abutment edges are formed integrally with the disk for engagement with the engageable portion so as to rotate therewith. Indentations are formed in a bottom surface of the lock disk at a predetermined position. A pin-lock assembly is retained in the hole of the flange of the valve body. The pin-lock assembly has a pin portion upwardly biased against the lock disk. The pin portion is aligned with the indentation so as to engage therein when the valve stem is rotated to a predetermined closed position, whereby the valve is locked in the predetermined closed position by the pin portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Centre des Technologies on Gaz Naturel
    Inventors: Michel Vellette, Frédérick Le Page, Didier Leconte, Carl Lapointe, Marc St-Pierre, Samir Akel
  • Patent number: 6568422
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved lock mechanism and method for high security locking of a valve in a desired position. A moveable locking member is operably mounted within a housing for moving between a locking position and an operating position. The housing preferably defines a lock hole into which a pad lock or the like can be inserted into the lock hole to secure the locking member in the locking position. A retainer member is preferably provided to prevent the locking member from being easily removed from the housing. The retainer member is preferably mounted such that an external lock cannot be inserted when the valve is not locked into the desired position. In a preferred embodiment, the locking member is incorporated into the end stop mechanism for the actuator, which is preferably adjustable and preferably is a dual end stop mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Leopold J. Niessen
  • Patent number: 6494065
    Abstract: A system for locking a chain-operated valve to prevent unauthorized and inadvertent operation of the valve. The system includes an elongated tube for receiving both lengths of a chain encircling the valve and a locking arrangement positioned at one end of the tube. Both lengths of the chain extending from the valve enter one end of the tube and exit the opposite end of the tube adjacent the lock arrangement. The lock arrangement includes a bracket secured to the tube and extending outwardly from the tube. The bracket preferably includes apertures for receiving a lockout hasp extending through the chain links and the bracket. A conventional padlock or other security locking device may then extend through the hasp to prevent opening of the hasp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Babbitt Steam Specialty Company
    Inventor: Edwin V. Babbitt, III
  • Patent number: 6467500
    Abstract: A locking device for a ball valve of the type having an operating stem includes a post attached to the valve body with the post extending parallel but spaced axially from the valve stem and formed to receive a locking pin between the post and valve stem to prevent rotation of the stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Mueller Co.
    Inventor: Semyon Fridlyand
  • Patent number: 6460383
    Abstract: A locking device for preventing movement of the operating handle of a valve comprising a U-shaped rod member engageable with a portion of the valve and having a curved proximal portion from which extends parallel portions for disposition on opposite sides of the valve handle to prevent movement thereof. First and second pivotally connected elongated arm members are positionable on opposite sides of the U-shaped member so that when they are brought together the U-shaped rod member is confined thereby to prevent said movement of said valve handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: Michael W. Wadsworth, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6453707
    Abstract: A locking device comprises a stopper support fixed to the body of a fluid controller, and a stopper nonrotatably mounted on the stopper support and engageable with a channel opening-closing handle for preventing the rotation of the handle. The stopper mounted on the support is movable upward and downward between a locking position wherein the stopper engages with the handle and an unlocking position wherein the stopper is out of engagement with the handle. The stopper support is formed with an opening for fitting the controller body therein and an aperture for fitting the stopper therein. The stopper has a vertical portion slidably fitted in the aperture and formed with a lock attaching bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Ryutaro Nishimura, Shigeru Itoi
  • Publication number: 20020074041
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved lock mechanism and method for high security locking of a valve in a desired position. A moveable locking member is operably mounted within a housing for moving between a locking position and an operating position. The housing preferably defines a lock hole into which a pad lock or the like can be inserted into the lock hole to secure the locking member in the locking position. A retainer member is preferably provided to prevent the locking member from being easily removed from the housing. The retainer member is preferably mounted such that an external lock cannot be inserted when the valve is not locked into the desired position. In a preferred embodiment, the locking member is incorporated into the end stop mechanism for the actuator, which is preferably adjustable and preferably is a dual end stop mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Leopold J. Niessen
  • Publication number: 20010032673
    Abstract: A locking device for a ball valve of the type having an operating stem includes a post attached to the valve body with the post extending parallel but spaced axially from the valve stem and formed to receive a locking pin between the post and valve stem to prevent rotation of the stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Inventor: Semyon Fridlyand
  • Publication number: 20010000850
    Abstract: A locking device comprises a stopper support fixed to the body of a fluid controller, and a stopper nonrotatably mounted on the stopper support and engageable with a channel opening-closing handle for preventing the rotation of the handle. The stopper mounted on the support is movable upward and downward between a locking position wherein the stopper engages with the handle and an unlocking position wherein the stopper is out of engagement with the handle. The stopper support is formed with an opening for fitting the controller body therein and an aperture for fitting the stopper therein. The stopper has a vertical portion slidably fitted in the aperture and formed with a lock attaching bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2001
    Publication date: May 10, 2001
    Applicant: FUJIKIN INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Ryutaro Nishimura, Shigeru Itoi
  • Patent number: 6205827
    Abstract: A torque isolation system includes a handle and a torque isolator that is moveable between a first position, wherein the torque isolator transmits either of two possible directions of torque from the handle to a rotatable regulator stem, and a second position, wherein the torque isolator transmits only one or neither of the two possible directions of torque from the handle to the regulator stem. The torque isolation system also includes a lock securing the torque isolator in a selected position. The second position may be either a decoupled position, wherein the torque isolator transmits neither of the two possible directions of torque from the handle to the regulator stem, or a ratchet position, wherein the torque isolator does not transmit a first direction of torque from the handle to the regulator stem, but the torque isolator does transmit a second direction of torque from the handle to the regulator stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Safety Valve Systems, LLC
    Inventor: James N. Lane
  • Patent number: 6189350
    Abstract: A locking device comprises a stopper support fixed to the body of a fluid controller, and a stopper nonrotatably mounted on the stopper support and engageable with a channel opening-closing handle for preventing the rotation of the handle. The stopper mounted on the support is movable upward and downward between a locking position wherein the stopper engages with the handle and an unlocking position wherein the stopper is out of engagement with the handle. The stopper support is formed with an opening for fitting the controller body therein and an aperture for fitting the stopper therein. The stopper has a vertical portion slidably fitted in the aperture and formed with a lock attaching bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Ryutaro Nishimura, Shigeru Itoi
  • Patent number: 6164318
    Abstract: A valve locking system for safely and economically locking out control valves. The valve locking system includes a valve locking assembly for preventing manipulation of a valve including a rotating handle. The handle includes at least one aperture extending through the handle. The assembly includes a brace designed for coupling around a neck of the valve such that the brace is prevented from rotating around the neck of the valve. A cable includes a first end loop and a second end loop. The first end loop is coupled to the brace. The second end of the cable is insertable through the aperture in the handle. A locking member for coupling the first end loop to the second end loop such that the cable ties the handle to the brace whereby the handle is prevented from being rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: Kenneth Dixon
  • Patent number: 6148851
    Abstract: A lock apparatus for a valve that has a valve body and an actuator stem protruding therefrom for selectively rotating a flow control member within the valve body between open and closed positions and a handle attached to the valve stem that defines a first axis. The lock apparatus includes a slider plate that is movably supported on the valve stem and is selectively slidable along a second axis that is substantially transverse to the first axis to a position wherein said slider plate contacts a portion of the valve body when the flow control member is in either of the open and closed positions to retain the flow control member therein and another position wherein the slider plate does not contact the portion of the valve body to permit the valve stem to be rotated. An opening is provided through the slider plate for receiving a portion of a locking device therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: PBM, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary W. Friedline, Michael W. Kromer
  • Patent number: 6119494
    Abstract: A locking apparatus which is suitable for use with a manually operated control. The control is of a type which has a body and a handle. The handle is rotatable relative to the body and which is restricted to rotate between a first position defined by a first pair of abutment surfaces touching one another. In such a condition, a second pair of abutment surfaces are spaced apart to define a first gap between them. Rotation to a second limiting position is defined by the second pair of abutment surfaces touching one another and the first pair of abutment surfaces being spaced apart to define a second gap. The locking apparatus includes a first member which is attachable to the handle and a second member which is attached to the first member. The second member fits for use into either one of the first or second gap and provides further abutment surfaces each disposed to abut a respective adjacent abutment surface on the body of the control thereby to restrict rotation of the handle relative to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Pegler Ltd.
    Inventor: Richard Guy Whitfield
  • Patent number: 6044860
    Abstract: A lockout device is designed for use with a valve having a pair of spaced apart, generally opposed abutment surfaces, with at least one of the abutment surfaces being shiftable relative to the other in such manner that the spacing between the surfaces decreases when the valve is actuated from a select condition. The lockout device includes a pair of generally oppositely facing engagement faces positionable between the abutment surfaces, and the device is adjustable so that the user may vary the distance between the engagement faces. In this respect, the lockout device may be disposed between the abutment surfaces and the engagement faces may be brought into secure, positive engagement with the abutment surfaces when the valve is in the select condition. This will prevent movement of the at least one abutment surface toward the other, and thereby prevent actuation of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: SPX Corporation
    Inventor: Steven K. Neu
  • Patent number: 5823023
    Abstract: An air regulator valve has a knob which is slidable between a locked position in which it engages teeth on the end of a valve bushing and an unlocked position in which it can be rotated about the valve bushing to rotate the valve shaft. A lock tab is fastened to the end of the shaft and extends through an opening in the knob. The knob is locked in the down position by passing a padlock shackle through an opening in the lock tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: Brady USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven J. Benda
  • Patent number: 5806555
    Abstract: A locking device for use on valves such as ball valves having a body and a rotatable handle on the body comprises a first body half, a second body half, and a hinge pivotally connecting the first and second body halves together such that the locking device is positionable in open and closed positions on the valve. A body opening is formed in the first and second body halves to receive the valve body in the closed position. First and second handle openings are formed in the first and second body halves to receive the valve handle, and substantially prevent the handle from being rotated, in respective first and second positions of the handle. The handle is externally visible in both positions. A locking mechanism is provided on the first and second body halves to retain the locking device in the closed position. A lock can be used to prevent the locking device from being removed from the valve without permanently damaging the locking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Spears Manfacturing Co.
    Inventor: Jose D. Magno, Jr.