Abstract: A method for detecting a leak, having at least the following steps: a) capturing a flow volume of a liquid through a liquid line during a multiplicity of liquid removal processes; b) comparing the flow volumes of the liquid in the respective liquid removal processes with an alarm value; c) outputting an alarm signal if the flow volume of the liquid in a liquid removal process exceeds the alarm value; d) adapting the alarm value on the basis of a frequency of the occurrence of the flow volumes of the liquid in the liquid removal processes above an adaptation value.

Abstract: With a gas shutoff device in the related art, a non-uniform gas layer can be produced by mixing of a gas of a different type from the gas currently in use during a shift in the amount of heat or installation or replacement, and an unexpected flow rate may be detected due to a disruption in the propagation of ultrasonic waves, thereby causing an erroneous determination of a flow rate abnormality or a sensor abnormality. With the gas shutoff device according to the invention, a valve-closing timer section 14 starts to time based on a valve-closing signal which is output by the flow rate abnormality or the sensor abnormality, and outputs a valve-opening signal to a valve driving section 12 if a release input is accepted from outside within a setting time period.

Abstract: A safety device for a gas distribution system includes a valve body and an upper casing attached to the valve body, the upper casing housing two springs. The two springs are separated by a casting tube. The two springs are attached to a movable diaphragm that is exposed to gas system pressure. The valve body also includes a cam mounted within the valve body. A limit switch is directly connected to the cam such that the limit switch moves directly in response to movement of the diaphragm. Additionally, a reset pin extends from the valve body and interacts with the cam such that the cam may be reset from a closed position to an open position by moving the reset pin.

Abstract: Fluid sensing shut-off devices with timer and methods of operation to shut off fluid flow if a primary shutoff valve sticks in the on condition. An embodiment is disclosed using a microphone to sense fluid flow, with a microprocessor periodically awakening from a sleep mode to power the sensor and determine if there is flow. If there is flow, the microprocessor times flow, and if flow is not shut off within a predetermined length of time, the microprocessor shuts off the valve. The valve itself normally held in a magnetically latched, valve open state, but may be unlatched by a current pulse to close the valve. Various embodiments and applications are disclosed.

Abstract: A use condition of gas equipment is monitored. An abnormality determination unit 26 determines whether or not a use flow volume obtained by detecting a flow velocity obtained by measuring a signal transfer time in a medium using a flow velocity detection unit 17 and converting the detected flow velocity into a flow volume using a flow volume calculation unit 25. When the shutoff unit 27 shuts off a fluid path 1 when it is determined that there is abnormality, a return signal is output from a return unit 28 to a shutoff unit 27 in order to use the gas again by opening the fluid path. Simultaneously, when a return time-counting unit 29 starts the time-counting operation, and then, a predetermined time period has been elapsed, the flow volume calculation unit 25 determines whether or not a predetermined flow volume of greater flows in order to identify whether or not all of the gas plugs of the gas equipment connected to the downstream of the gas shutoff apparatus 27 are closed.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods of controlling the pressure in a modulation pressure circuit through transmission fluid through an orificed check valve supplementary or in substitution of a computer-controlled pressure regulation solenoid. Detailed information on various example embodiments of the inventions are provided in the Detailed Description below, and the inventions are defined by the appended claims.

Abstract: A flow-through pressure regulator includes a divider, a closure member and a housing. The divider separates a first chamber from a second chamber, and includes a passage that provides fluid communication between the first and second chambers. The closure member moves relative to the divider between first and second configurations. The first configuration substantially prevents fluid communication through the passage, and the second configuration permits fluid communication through the passage. The housing includes a first homogeneous housing portion and a second housing portion. The first homogeneous housing portion includes an inlet, defines the first chamber, and forms a pocket that receives a majority of the closure member. The second housing portion includes an outlet and defines the second chamber.

Abstract: A fluid spray apparatus with a controlled supply of pressurized fluid delivered through a network of tubes to a spray head having a plurality of stop flow valves and nozzles that will automatically shut off the flow of fluid out of the nozzles when the pressure of the fluid drops below a threshold level. The spray head preferably has a central chamber that is open to the stop flow valves and dampens any fluctuations in pressure and volume of fluid from the source of pressurized fluid. The nozzle is preferably mounted to the stop flow valve. The stop flow valve has a biased valve head that engages a seat until the pressure exerted on the valve head by the fluid exceeds a threshold level and the valve opens. One embodiment has a quick connect coupling with a base, seal and collar that will allow spray heads of various numbers of nozzles to be quickly exchanged. Another embodiment is adapted to couple with a conventional paint spray compressor and gun.

Abstract: The invention is therefore directed to a rotary valve actuating system coupled to a pipeline for a pressurized fluid, the actuating system being coupled to the rotary valve to selectively cause operation of the valve. The valve actuating system comprises at least two reservoirs having an amount of an operating liquid in a first portion being coupled to an external source of pressurized fluid in a second portion thereof. A slideable piston is positioned within each of the reservoirs to isolate the first and second portions, and upon application of pressure from the external pressurized fluid against the slideable piston, operating liquid is supplied to actuate the rotary valve. In this manner, the operating liquid is isolated from the external source of pressurized fluid, such as supplied from the pipeline.

Abstract: A fire hose nozzle includes a safety device to prevent the nozzle from being displaced due to the action of the water supplied to the nozzle. The safety device includes a tubular body and a butterfly disc with two coaxial trunnions pivotally mounted on the body. The butterfly disc is movable inside the tubular body between an open position, in which the butterfly disc allows water to flow, and a closed position, in which the butterfly disc restricts this flow. An external control lever is integral with one of the trunnions. A trigger is borne by the control lever and bears against the ground. The trigger holds the butterfly disc in its open position when the control lever exerts a downwardly directed vertical force thereon due to the action of the water flowing over the butterfly disc.

Abstract: A software driven, solid state controlled, electro-mechanically operated system to monitor volatile liquid fuel or other hazardous liquids and provide emergency shut-off if the delivery system is ruptured. A computer receives input from transducers monitoring the flow rate of the liquid through the line and a pressure sensor insures the system is prepared to function. The monitoring apparatus presets a condition based on current environmental conditions. Measuring the flow rate provides input to software that validates all other entries. Delivery quantities allowing point of delivery control to vary the delivery quantity to individual locations. The software options are: Preset conditions; Owner/operator input via external computer for loading delivery and trip instructions; Instructional output on LCD screen to driver on customer information and scheduling; Data download to owner/operator on billing information, driver daily activities and volume of propane remaining in vehicle.

Abstract: A water monitoring and control system adapted for residential and commercial use automatically shuts off the water supply after a predetermined period of time, whether the flow is intentional or unintentional, thereby preventing damage from leaks and other malfunctions. The system also gives an indication of all water flow ranging from normal usage to leakage of a few drops and large flow, as would typically occur due to a break in the plumbing system. The system is easily bypassed in the event of power outages. In terms of hardware, the main components of the system include a normally closed water shut-off valve, preferably solenoid-operated. A pressure-responsive switch senses changes in water pressure and sends a signal in the event of a pressure drop, and a timer is provided to start a timing cycle when there is a demand for water, either intentional or unintentional, and shut-off the flow after a predetermined period of time selected by the user.

Abstract: A gas stream monitor shall be provided that facilitates the adjustment of the reseat flow. The gas stream monitor consists of a gas-tight casing whose interior is equipped with a seat for a reseat body that is movable inside the casing and is kept in open position against the flow direction by weight and/or spring force, in which the flow cross-section, surface area of the reseat body and the forces are determined in such a manner that gas stream monitor leaves its open position at a defined value of the reseat flow and is moved towards the seat of the casing, so that the gas conduit is closed in the shut position, and has outside the casing at least one manipulator to adjust the spring pre-tension and/or the stroke of the reseat body. The gas stream monitor serves to automatically shut off gas conduits upon the occurrence of an inadmissible flow increase due to, e.g. a damaged gas conduit or a defective consumer.

Abstract: A flood control device measures fluid flow into a house or building and shuts off the fluid flow if measured flow conditions indicate an overly high consumption due to a leak, break, or other abnormal condition which is present in the plumbing system of the house or building.

Abstract: An apparatus detects an opening in a fluid flow passageway such as occurs when a resistance welding cap which is cooled by the fluid flow becomes accidently detached from a welding machine. Upon detection of an opening, an air-actuated pinch lever is activated to quickly pinch shut flexible fluid inlet and outlet hoses and thereby shut off the fluid flow. Inlet and outlet flow rate sensors provide periodic outputs to a digital computer which determines directions of inlet and outlet flow acceleration. If either the inlet or outlet acceleration changes direction, a baseline inlet or outlet flow rate is set equal to the corresponding current flow rate value to prevent erroneous opening detection due to normal flow fluctuations. If the inlet and outlet accelerations are in the same direction, the baseline values are similarly updated. If the inlet acceleration is positive and the outlet acceleration is negative, it indicates a probable opening.

Abstract: A fuel pressure regulating valve for motor vehicles which decreases, the noise behavior of pressure regulating valves frequently found to be annoying. The pressure regulating valve includes a sealing gap, a first part, and a second part of a connection opening which are dimensioned so that the noise behavior of the pressure regulating valve is significantly better than that of known pressure regulating valves. The pressure regulating valve is particularly suited for fuel delivery systems of motor vehicles with an internal combustion engine.

Abstract: An apparatus detects an opening in a fluid flow passageway such as occurs when a resistance welding cap which is cooled by the fluid flow becomes accidently detached from a welding machine. Upon detection of an opening, an air-actuated pinch lever is activated to quickly pinch shut flexible fluid inlet and outlet hoses and thereby shut off the fluid flow. Inlet and outlet flow rate sensors provide periodic outputs to a digital computer which determines directions of inlet and outlet flow acceleration. If either the inlet or outlet acceleration changes direction, a baseline inlet or outlet flow rate is set equal to the corresponding current flow rate value to prevent erroneous opening detection due to normal flow fluctuations. If the inlet and outlet accelerations are in the same direction, the baseline values are similarly updated. If the inlet acceleration is positive and the outlet acceleration is negative, it indicates a probable opening.

Abstract: A flood control device 200 which measures the volume of fluid delivered in a continuous steady flow to a house or building and which shuts off the fluid flow if a preset maximum limit is reached, indicating overly high consumption due to a leak, break or open faucet in the plumbing of the house or building.

Abstract: A coolant control valve assembly for an automatic welding gun. The assembly includes a manifold having a supply passageway and a return passageway for respectively supplying coolant to and receiving coolant from the welding gun. A controller is used to control the supplying of coolant and is coupled to a sensor which detects a reduction in coolant flow through the manifold relative to predetermined flow rate. A check valve is located in the return passageway of the manifold and closes in response to reduced flow.

Abstract: Fuel dispensing nozzles, and vapor flow control assemblies useful with such nozzles, are constructed to maximize the possibility of collecting all of the hydrocarbon vapors displaced from the vehicle tank and upward through the fillpipe towards the atmospheric opening during filling of the tank with fuel.

Abstract: This invention discloses a device by which fuel flow within a pressurized fuel system can accurately be measured to determine if the flow of fuel falls within an acceptable range. If the device detects that the fuel flow is not within normal operating ranges of the fuel system, then the device will provide a warning indication that a malfunction or fuel leakage is present in the fuel system or shut off power to the fuel pump providing the flow of fuel. The detection device can either be a device which detects the actual flow of the through the fuel line, or a device which detects the pressure within the fuel line. By this invention, a pending malfunction, such as fuel filter blockage or leaking fuel line, can be ascertained before the malfunction becomes a serious problem.

Abstract: A pressurized storage tank for toxic chemicals includes a shut-down valve assembly. Upon detection of a leak, the shut-down valve assembly stops the flow of chemicals from the outlet valves of the tank. The shut-down valve assembly is located within the pressure vessel of the tank for maximum safety. The outlet valves of the tank are external to the pressure vessel and are connected to the valve assembly. The shut-down valve assembly operates in a fail-safe manner, such that removal of power or control signals to the valve assembly results in the valves being closed.

Abstract: A check valve for a leak detector used in conjuction with a gasoline dispenser maintains the delivery line under pressure to accelerate translation of the leak detector from the relaxed position through the leak position and to the non leak position unless there is a line leak resulting in flow above a predetermined flow rate. Upon cessation of fuel delivery at the outlet nozzle, the check valve isolates the leak detector from damage due to hydraulic hammer. In the event of leak in the delivery line, the bleed off of pressure locked in by the check valve will permit the leak detector to sense the low pressure when in the leak position and signal the station operator by restricting the flow rate.

Abstract: Apparatus for sensing and stopping large and small leakages between one or more tapping locations (6) and a stop valve (2) in a pressurized incoming pipeline (1) for preventing damage due to liquid leaving the line, e.g. water or oil, in buildings or other premises. The apparatus includes a pressure-and time-controlled regulating unit (4) intended for opening and closing the stop valve (2), which is normally closed when tapping does not take place but is opened but is opened when tapping is begun. The regulating unit (4) is connected to a pressure monitor (3), which is adapted for sensing the pressure after the stop valve (2) and giving the regulating unit an opening signal should the pressure fall below a given minimum pressure. Time control of the regulating unit is done with the aid of a series of time circuits (11, 15, 18, 22, 23, 24) arranged for registering different times (A, B, C, D, E) which start when the pressure monitor senses low pressure or one the termination of a preceding time.

Abstract: An automatic shut off valve comprising a housing having a main inlet, an outlet, a user inlet and a user outlet. A valve assembly is contained within the housing and is movable between an open and a closed position. In its open position, the user inlet and outlet are fluidly connected in series with the main inlet and main outlet while, conversely, in its closed position, the valve assembly sealingly closes and isolates both the user inlet and outlet from the main inlet and main outlet. A compression spring urges the valve assembly towards its closed position while a fluid flow rate greater than a predetermined amount into the user inlet retains the valve assembly in its open position. Consequently, in the event of an interruption or blockage of the fluid flow between the user inlet and outlet, the compression spring snaps the valve assembly to its closed position thus isolating the inlet and outlet from the main inlet and terminating fluid flow through the shut off valve.

Abstract: Water supply line to the home has a water flow sensor therein and a valve therein. When water flow is sensed, the valve is turned off, as when a leak occurs. Such a leak may be caused by failure of a component in the system, such as a burst pipe or leaky hot water heater, or may be caused by a disaster such as an earthquake.

Abstract: A safety valve for fluids, comprising on the upstream side a first valve member openable to a degree dependent on the fluid throughput, and, on the downstream side, a second fully-opening valve member capable of being closed sharply by return mechanism and coupled to the first clack through mechanical linkage uncoupling of which is controlled by the position of the first valve member which depends on a predetermined minimum flow rate, the uncoupling causing return motion and sharp closure of the second valve member. The safety valve is useful in the delivery of a fluid where said delivery must be stopped if the flow rate of fluid falls under a predetermined limit.