Single Acting Fluid Servo Patents (Class 137/492)
  • Patent number: 11274520
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an apparatus, a system and a process for regulating a wellhead control mechanism. The apparatus is configured to control actuation of a wellhead control mechanism by moving a moveable body of the apparatus between a first position and a second position. When the apparatus is in the first position a valve actuator is actuatable and when the apparatus is in the second position the valve actuator is physically interfered from actuating. When the apparatus is in the second position, the wellhead control mechanism cannot be actuated and is held in either an open, a partially open or a closed position. Other embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a system that directly controls actuation of a wellhead actuation mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: Intelligent Wellhead Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley Robert Martin, Murad Mohammad, Sheldon Kryger, Robert Duncan
  • Patent number: 11156299
    Abstract: A valve features an outer housing, in which there are provided inlet and outlet channels respectively reaching into the housing from inlet and outlet openings thereof. The two channels are axially closed at adjacent inner ends thereof, but feature perforated circumferential walls. A resiliently expandable sleeve is disposed around the circumferential walls in a position normally overlying the perforations, while leaving a gap between the sleeve and inner surfaces of the housing. A charging port communicates with the gap to enable pressurization thereof. Pressurization of the gap normally holds the sleeve tightly over the perforations to prevent flow from one channel to the other. When pressure in the inlet channel exceeds the pressure in the charging chamber, the sleeve radially expands from the circumferential walls of the channels to uncover the perforations and allow fluid to flow between the channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: Sur-Flo Meters & Controls Ltd
    Inventor: Darrell Nelson
  • Patent number: 11098737
    Abstract: In some examples, a device includes a fluidic circuit may be configured to receive a fluidic input (and optionally a fluidic bias) and to provide a fluidic output based on the fluidic input. In some examples, the fluidic output may be a fluidic difference output based on a difference (such as a pressure and/or flow difference) between the fluidic input and a fluidic bias. In some examples, a device includes a fluidic amplifier configured to receive the fluidic difference output, and to provide a device fluidic output based on the fluidic difference output. The device fluidic output may be provided to a fluidic load, which may include an actuator and/or a haptic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: Facebook Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Casey Glick
  • Patent number: 10813296
    Abstract: A valve includes an inlet and an outlet, a body including a first seat and a second seat, wherein the first seat and second seat are spaced apart from each other at a predetermined distance, a cavity in the body, a piston positioned in the cavity, wherein the piston rests against the first seat and the second seat when in the closed position, and a pilot ball adjacent the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: AUSCO, INC.
    Inventors: Werner Buhler, Kenneth Bram
  • Patent number: 10366796
    Abstract: The depressurization system comprises a main valve (8) provided with a pneumatic actuator with an opening spring (10) which can be connected at one side to a pressurized container (1) housing a gas inside it and at the other side to the atmosphere, defining this opening spring (10) a predetermined mechanical pressure, so when the pressure inside the pressurized container (1) is bigger than the predetermined mechanical pressure, the main valve (8) remains closed, and when the pressure inside the pressurized container (1) is lower than the predetermined mechanical pressure, the main valve (8) opens, allowing the pressurized gas from container (1) be discharged into the atmosphere. It does not require any external power supply for their main operation, allowing to fulfill appropriately their role in accident scenarios, even with total loss of electric power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2019
    Assignee: ASVAD INT, S.L.
    Inventor: Arnaldo Laborda Rami
  • Patent number: 9920850
    Abstract: A flow control valve including a main valve and a pilot valve for controlling a piston of the main valve. The pilot valve is controlled in part with relatively high pressure fluid ported from a high pressure port of a flow sensor and relatively low pressure fluid ported from a low pressure port of a flow sensor, and also controlled with a control fluid applied to a control plate acting on a compression spring to bias the pilot valve. The pressure in the control fluid is controlled by pressurizing a control fluid reservoir with a mechanism accessible from outside the valve and the piping in which the valve is installed. The flow sensor and the reservoir are preferably disposed within the flange of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Griswold Controls, LLC
    Inventor: Stefan I. Tuineag
  • Patent number: 9890862
    Abstract: A seal support system for a mechanical seal includes a system vessel for containing barrier fluid. Closed loop pipe work connects the vessel to a mechanical seal with a device provided for feeding barrier fluid to the system vessel. A further vessel is provided that is able to be in fluid communication with the system vessel. The further vessel may be provided with an elastomeric membrane, which may be filled with a gas under pressure to an extent required to allow for the effect of the highest anticipated temperature which might occur in a particular application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: AES Engineering Ltd.
    Inventors: Christopher Glyn Booth, Andrew Colverson
  • Patent number: 9718082
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing apparatus is disclosed. Systems include an in-line or linear bladder apparatus configured to expand to collect a charge of fluid, and contract to assist with fluid delivery and dispensing. During a dispense-off period process fluid can collect in this bladder after the process fluid is pushed through a fine filter (micro filter). A given filtration rate can be less than a dispense rate and thus the system herein compensates for filter-lag that often accompanies fluid filtering for microfabrication, while providing a generally linear configuration that reduces chances for defect creation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventors: Anton deVilliers, Ronald Nasman, James Grootegoed, Norman A. Jacobson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9523988
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pressure reducing valve. The pressure reduction valve includes a main body, an inlet, an outlet, a stem, a main seat, a pilot diaphragm, a main head, and a control spring. The pressure reduction valve includes additional auxiliary seats with corresponding auxiliary heads and displacement members/surfaces. The pressure reduction valve additional includes auxiliary seats with corresponding auxiliary heads and displacement members/surfaces enables stage wise opening of the secondary seats and the main seat. This enables to meet highly varying media flow demands using single pressure reduction valve, having less hunting effect and eliminating use of multiple pressure reduction valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2016
    Assignee: Forbes Marshall Steam Systems Private Limited
    Inventors: Milind Arvind Joshi, Prashant Ramchandra Ranade
  • Patent number: 9334968
    Abstract: A high pressure fluid system including enhanced safety, maintenance and servicing features. The system can include a CAM assembly module, having a valve seat assembly, seal cartridge assembly and inlet manifold, that is easily installed in and removed from a frame and/discharge manifold as a single unit. A discharge manifold can isolate different pressure rated passageways of the system, and multiple rupture discs associated with the same. A discharge manifold end plate can be included to provide ease of repair of discharge outlets and to establish a plumbing system for the rupture discs. A quick coupler can facilitate connection between a plunger of the seal cartridge assembly and a cross head stub connected to a power frame. A lubrication valve assembly can provide and meter lubrication from a high pressure inlet source to a plunger and packing of the seal cartridge assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: PSI PRESSURE SYSTEMS CORP.
    Inventors: Jamie A. Forrest, Todd A. Shawver
  • Patent number: 9004097
    Abstract: A spool valve includes a housing having a spring-enclosing portion and a spool-enclosing portion aligned along a longitudinal axis. A spool is mounted for reciprocal axial movement in the housing and a piston is fixed to one end of the spool. The spool-enclosing portion supports a stationary bushing having a bore receiving an opposite control end of the spool, the bushing formed with a first plurality of radially-oriented passages opening into an annular groove formed in the bore, the groove having sloped side edges. The spool supports plural ring-seals arranged to engage the sloped side edges of the annular groove and thereby seal off the radially-oriented passages when the spool is in a neutral position. Movement of the spool is adjustably limited in one direction and dampened in both axial directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Nelson Irrigation Corporation
    Inventors: Steven E. Crawford, Robert D. Klein
  • Publication number: 20150034179
    Abstract: A control valve includes a piston-housing having a hollow portion. The hollow portion has a first end, an open end, first and second internal chambers, and a fluid port configured to allow fluid to exit the second chamber. The first chamber is nearer the first end, and the second chamber is nearer the open end. A piston is located within the housing and is adapted for reciprocal motion. The piston includes a first and second seal-engaging portions. The first seal-engaging portion has a diameter that is less than the diameter of the second seal-engaging portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Applicant: Daniel Measurement and Control, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Henry Loga, David J. Seiler, Justin Blake Crouch, Michael Richard Adib Zahr, Raul H. Almazan
  • Patent number: 8925577
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a throttling structure for use in a fluid pressure device. A nozzle passage is formed between a primary side port and a nozzle back pressure chamber. A throttling mechanism made up from a plurality of orifice plates is disposed in the nozzle passage. Small diameter opening holes, which are smaller in diameter than the nozzle passage, are provided in the orifice plates. Outer edge portions of the orifice plates are retained in a second body part via seal members. Further, the orifice plates are separated mutually from each other by a predetermined distance along the direction of extension of the nozzle passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: SMC Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toru Horiuchi, Kenji Tsukamoto
  • Patent number: 8910657
    Abstract: The apparatus uses an electrical signal controlled valve, for instance, a proportional solenoid controlled valve, controlled by a controller, to control a pilot operated valve for regulating pressure of fluid in a port thereof in connection with a fluid operated system. A pressure sensor in connection with the port is used to monitor the regulated pressure. The regulated pressurized fluid in the port is also used, as required, as a component of the pilot signal. The valves are configured such that when the electrical control signal is absent or the electrically controlled valve is unresponsive thereto, the presence of pressurized fluid at a predetermined supply pressure, will automatically operate the pilot operated valve in cooperation with a biasing element thereof, for delivering pressurized fluid at a minimum or reduced regulated pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventor: Guy T. Stoever
  • Publication number: 20140124059
    Abstract: A valve assembly is provided and includes a poppet disposed to regulate a pressure of a fluid flowing through a pathway defined between the poppet and a valve body, a drive element configured to modulate a pressure of a servo fluid to thereby control a position of the poppet relative to the valve body and an actuator body coupled to the poppet and configured to deliver a supply fluid to the drive element from a first cavity defined between the poppet and the actuator body and to deliver the servo fluid from the drive element to a second cavity defined between the actuator body and the poppet. The poppet defines a filter through which fluid flows from the pathway into the first cavity as the supply fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventors: Christopher McAuliffe, Bruce R. Schroder
  • Patent number: 8695620
    Abstract: A flush valve for a waste water system comprises a valve including a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a main valve element adapted for movement to allow fluid flow between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet based on a pressure differential across a portion of the main valve element. The valve also includes a vent system comprising a control chamber in flow communication with the fluid inlet of the valve and a vent outlet in flow communication with the fluid outlet of the valve, and a solenoid for venting fluid venting fluid from the control chamber to the fluid outlet. A pressure sensor, such as an electronic pressure transducer, senses the fluid pressure of fluid within the vent system. When a predetermined pressure threshold is reached or exceeded, the solenoid can be energized to release fluid from the control chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: SDB IP Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
  • Patent number: 8684021
    Abstract: A method of monitoring a fluid process control system having a control loop for controlling the flow of a material through a path in the fluid process control system. The control loop a control valve, a valve controller, and a fluid control line. The control valve is disposed in the path and is movable between an open position and a closed position. The valve controller is for controlling movement of the control valve. And, the fluid control line couples the valve controller to the control valve. The method detects a first pressure in the control loop with a first pressure sensor. Then, a second pressure can be detected at a location that is external to the control loop with a second pressure sensor. Finally, the method can include determining a characteristic of the control loop based on the first pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
    Inventor: Jimmie L. Snowbarger
  • Patent number: 8479734
    Abstract: An overpressure protection system and method for a hyperbaric chamber having a secondary relief valve in pressure communication with a hyperbaric chamber and configured to actuate upon occurrence of a predetermined pressure condition. Actuation of the secondary relief valve causes an output signal to be delivered to a relay input, which results in actuation of an emergency vent valve to close an oxygen shutoff valve to terminate the flow of oxygen to the chamber. In the preferred embodiment, the predetermined pressure condition occurs when the chamber pressure exceeds the maximum chamber set point plus a predetermined pressure differential. In the preferred embodiment, the relay may be pneumatic or electromechanical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: John Steven Wood
  • Publication number: 20130167951
    Abstract: Hydraulic drive and method for driving a pressure booster of a high-pressure apparatus. The hydraulic drive includes a pressure medium pump having one of a constant displacement pump and a pump conveying a constant volume per revolution, a servo motor coupled to drive the pump, and a controller structured to at least one of electrically control, regulate and switch the servo motor, which is arranged on at least one of a low pressure side and a high pressure side of the pressure booster.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: BHDT GMBH
    Inventors: Franz TRIEB, Rene STUEHLINGER, Rene MODERER
  • Patent number: 8387653
    Abstract: A flush valve for a waste water system comprises a valve including a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a main valve element adapted for movement to allow fluid flow between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet based on a pressure differential across a portion of the main valve element. The valve also includes a vent system comprising a control chamber in flow communication with the fluid inlet of the valve and a vent outlet in flow communication with the fluid outlet of the valve, and a solenoid for venting fluid venting fluid from the control chamber to the fluid outlet. A pressure sensor, such as an electronic pressure transducer, senses the fluid pressure of fluid within the vent system. When a predetermined pressure threshold is reached or exceeded, the solenoid can be energized to release fluid from the control chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: SDB IP Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
  • Patent number: 8360096
    Abstract: A relief valve for a hydraulic machine that combines a poppet valve assembly and a pilot valve assembly together using a connector pin wherein internal fluid passageways within the poppet and pilot spools provide a fluid flow path between the inlet of the valve and a cavity disposed between the poppet and pilot. As a result of the internal passageways fluid is metered to the interior cavity to provide additional control and stability within the relief valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Sauer-Danfoss Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis O. Courtright, Enzo Soncini, Davide I. Davoli
  • Publication number: 20130001037
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device having at least one first component (2) and having a second component (1) which is arranged so as to be movable relative to the first component (2), characterized in that a molded seal (16) is arranged in a groove (20) of the first component (2), which molded seal is in contact with the second component (1), wherein a first chamber(3) formed on one side of the molded seal (16) between the first and the second component can be charged with a first pressure and a second chamber (33) formed on the opposite side of the molded seal (16) between the first and the second component can be charged with a second pressure, and the molded seal (16) together with the first component (2) forms at least one overflow valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: WABCO GMBH
    Inventors: Harald Borchers, Reiner Hölscher
  • Patent number: 8302617
    Abstract: A fluid control valve for use in a system for inflating an anti-G garment. The valve includes an elongate chamber in which a valve member is moveable. The chamber has first and second axial ends. An inlet opening in a chamber wall provides for the flow of fluid into the chamber. A valve edge is provided at the second end of the chamber to form an outlet. The valve member has a first portion which closes the first chamber end and is moveable in the chamber between the inlet opening and the first chamber end, an intermediate portion which has a cross sectional area less than that of the chamber wall to permit the inflow of fluid to the chamber, and a second portion including a flow control device which co-operates with the valve edge to control fluid flow from the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Honeywell Normalair-Garrett (Holdings) Limited
    Inventors: Alec John Aldworth, Philip James Withers
  • Patent number: 8261770
    Abstract: A flush valve for a waste water system comprises a valve including a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a main valve element adapted for movement to allow fluid flow between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet based on a pressure differential across a portion of the main valve element. The valve also includes a vent system comprising a control chamber in flow communication with the fluid inlet of the valve and a vent outlet in flow communication with the fluid outlet of the valve, and a solenoid for venting fluid venting fluid from the control chamber to the fluid outlet. A pressure sensor, such as an electronic pressure transducer, senses the fluid pressure of fluid within the vent system and regulates water flow through the valve based on the sensed fluid pressure so as to deliver a predetermined quantity of water through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: SDB IP Holdings, LLC.
    Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
  • Patent number: 8215327
    Abstract: A flush valve for a waste water system comprises a valve including a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a main valve element adapted for movement to allow fluid flow between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet based on a pressure differential across a portion of the main valve element. The valve also includes a vent system comprising a control chamber in flow communication with the fluid inlet of the valve and a vent outlet in flow communication with the fluid outlet of the valve, and a solenoid for venting fluid venting fluid from the control chamber to the fluid outlet. A pressure sensor, such as an electronic pressure transducer, senses the fluid pressure of fluid within the vent system. When a predetermined pressure threshold is reached or exceeded, the solenoid can be energized to release fluid from the control chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: SDB IP Holdings, LLC.
    Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
  • Publication number: 20120160345
    Abstract: A valve unit for controlling the delivery of a combustible gas, in particular for delivery via a gas metering apparatus including a main gas through-flow pipe (2), the unit comprising a servovalve with a first valve seat (3) provided on the pipe and associated with a respective first shutter (6) with diaphragm control (7) for the opening of the seat (3) in opposition to a first return spring (22), an operating chamber (10) for controlling the servovalve, the chamber being in communication with an inlet section (4) of the main pipe (2), upstream of the first valve seat (3), one side (7a) of the diaphragm (7) being subjected to the pressure prevailing in the chamber (10), the other side (7b) being subjected to the pressure prevailing downstream of the first valve seat, in the region of an outlet section (5) of the pipe (2), the operating chamber (10) being in communication with the outlet section (5) via a second valve seat (9) co-operating with a second shutter (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: SIT LA PRECISA S.P.A. CON SOCIO UNICO
    Inventors: Michele Bortoliero, Teodora Plaian, Luca Peron, Gianpiero Turrin
  • Patent number: 8156960
    Abstract: A valve for controlling pressure in a system is provided. The valve includes a housing, a servo spool and a piston positioned within the housing with the piston and the servo spool being movable relative to each other. The piston defines a first orifice configured to communicate with a supply of pressurized fluid and a second orifice configured to communicate with a portion of the system exterior to the valve. A first chamber is arranged such that force due to fluid pressure in the first chamber is configured to move the piston in a first direction. The first chamber includes a third orifice configured to communicate with a controlled pressure in the system. A second chamber is at least partially defined by the housing and the piston and includes a fourth orifice configured to communicate with a low pressure fluid source. A biasing element is arranged in the second chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Cory L. Fisher
  • Publication number: 20120085437
    Abstract: A fluid flow control device includes a trim cartridge, a diaphragm assembly, and a control element. The trim cartridge defines a cartridge supply port and an upper planar surface. The cartridge supply port is disposed along a supply path of the volume booster and the upper planar surface is disposed along an exhaust of the volume booster. The diaphragm assembly defines an exhaust port on the exhaust path. The control element is movably disposed in the trim cartridge and includes a supply plug, an exhaust plug, and a stem. The supply plug engages the cartridge supply port and the exhaust plug engages the exhaust port. The exhaust plug further includes a lower planar surface that is coplanar with the upper planar surface of the trim cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: FISHER CONTROLS INTERNATIONAL LLC
    Inventor: Michel K. Lovell
  • Patent number: 8136545
    Abstract: Apparatus to regulate fluid flow are disclosed. The apparatus includes an example regulator valve and an example automatically-adjusting or self-adjusting amplifier valve to maintain fluid flow during low downstream demand fluid flow conditions, and to maintain the operational accuracy and stability of the regulator valve during higher downstream demand fluid flow conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Emerson Process Management Regulator Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Jablonski
  • Patent number: 8113233
    Abstract: A hydraulic circuit of an option device for an excavator is disclosed, which can constantly supply hydraulic fluid to an option device, such as a breaker and so on, selectively mounted on the excavator, irrespective of the size of a load occurring when the option device operates, and control respective flow rates required for various kinds of option devices. The hydraulic circuit includes a variable hydraulic pump, an option device, a first spool shifted to control hydraulic fluid fed to the option device, a poppet and a piston, an option spool shifted to control hydraulic fluid fed to the option device via the first spool, a second spool shifted to control hydraulic fluid fed to a back pressure chamber of the poppet, and a control means installed in the poppet and controlling hydraulic fluid passing through an orifice of the poppet when the piston and the poppet are pressed by the hydraulic fluid fed from the hydraulic pump, through the shifting of the second spool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment Holding Sweden AB
    Inventor: Man Suk Jeon
  • Patent number: 8113228
    Abstract: A suction valve for a pipe line in which a medium flows is provided, whereby the flow can be closed and regulated and whereby back flow prevented. The suction valve includes a movable a closing mechanism (3) placed in a valve house (1), and an opposed counter face in the valve house. The closing mechanism (3) can be moved by the pressure of the medium flow by forming the closing mechanism (3) to be as piston parts or cylinder parts in a working cylinder. The pressure of the medium flow used for moving the closing mechanism (3) is led into the closing mechanism through an outlet valve (8,9,10), which outlet valve is fitted inside the closing mechanism (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Polarteknik PMC Oy Ab
    Inventor: Vesa Ropponen
  • Patent number: 8104495
    Abstract: A multi-functional or versatile emergency shutdown valve controller may be used in various different emergency shutdown configurations to enable the testing of different types and configurations of emergency shutdown devices and the supporting equipment associated therewith. In one example, a digital valve controller for use with an emergency shutdown valve includes two pressure sensors and is adapted to be connected to a pneumatic valve actuator and to a solenoid valve device to assist in the on-line testing of the valve actuator as well as in the on-line testing of the solenoid valve. To perform testing of the solenoid valve, the valve controller may measure the pressure at different ports of the solenoid valve as the solenoid valve is actuated for a very short period of time. The valve controller may determine whether the solenoid device is fully functional or operational based on the derivative of the difference between the measured pressure signals, i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
    Inventor: Jimmie L. Snowbarger
  • Publication number: 20110146813
    Abstract: A gas cylinder valve 2 is able to be opened by application of a pilot gas pressure. In certain embodiments the gas cylinder valve 2 is usable with a yoke 8 for engaging with a valve assembly of a gas cylinder 1, the yoke comprising a pilot gas passage 28 able to connect a pilot gas chamber 37 in the cylinder valve assembly to a source of pressurised pilot gas and the cylinder gas port of the gas cylinder valve to an external cylinder gas passage. The valve and yoke enable the tamper-resistance of a gas cylinder to be improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventors: Paul Wadham, Andrew Tatarek
  • Publication number: 20100326533
    Abstract: A multistage, pilot-operated pressure regulator for pressure adjustment and/or back pressure relief and/or differential pressure or flow control applications comprises a diaphragm and a plurality of plates, including a throttle plate and at least one flow control plate. In at least one embodiment, the throttle plate includes a sloped upper surface for contacting the diaphragm, and a plurality of apertures residing within a plurality of concentric rows. In addition, in at least one embodiment, at least one flow control plate is positioned downstream of the throttle plate, the at least one flow control plate including a plurality of apertures residing within a plurality of concentric rows. A method of controlling the flow of fluid in a conduit is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventors: Richard J. Mooney, Pamela Mooney
  • Patent number: 7735513
    Abstract: A flush valve for a waste water system comprises a valve including a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a main valve element adapted for movement to allow fluid flow between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet based on a pressure differential across a portion of the main valve element. The valve also includes a vent system comprising a control chamber in flow communication with the fluid inlet of the valve and a vent outlet in flow communication with the fluid outlet of the valve, and a solenoid for venting fluid venting fluid from the control chamber to the fluid outlet. A pressure sensor, such as an electronic pressure transducer, senses the fluid pressure of fluid within the vent system. When a predetermined pressure threshold is reached or exceeded, the solenoid can be energized to release fluid from the control chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: I-CON Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
  • Patent number: 7703477
    Abstract: A fluid control valve for use with apparatus for medical use. Commercially available valves which operate by electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic means are often expensive and bulky. They may require excessive power to operate them and can be noisy during operation due to moving parts and fluid flow through internal pathways. The valve of the present invention has a valve seal (1) mounted between inlet (A) and outlet ports (B), with the seal including a valve closure member (4) operated by means of a control fluid fed through a control port (C) in the valve body. In operation a pressure differential acting to open and close the valve is set up between the inlet and outlet ports and the control port to operate the valve. This design results in cost savings and performance benefits compared with the prior art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Novamedix Distribution Limited
    Inventors: Gordon Cook, Graeme Follet
  • Patent number: 7621293
    Abstract: A multi-functional or versatile emergency shutdown valve controller may be used in various different emergency shutdown configurations to enable the testing of different types and configurations of emergency shutdown devices and the supporting equipment associated therewith. In one example, a digital valve controller for use with an emergency shutdown valve includes two pressure sensors and is adapted to be connected to a pneumatic valve actuator and to a solenoid valve device to assist in the on-line testing of the valve actuator as well as in the on-line testing of the solenoid valve. To perform testing of the solenoid valve, the valve controller may measure the pressure at different ports of the solenoid valve as the solenoid valve is actuated for a very short period of time. The valve controller may determine whether the solenoid device is fully functional or operational based on the derivative of the difference between the measured pressure signals, i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
    Inventor: Jimmie L. Snowbarger
  • Patent number: 7025083
    Abstract: A quick closing shut-off valve includes an inlet, an outlet and a passage there between. A closing element blocks the passage when in the closed position. The closing element is interconnected to a piston via a pull rod. The piston is positioned within a working chamber that communicates with the valve outlet. A safety valve also communicates with the working chamber and is positioned above the piston. As a result, when the pressure within the tank, and thus in the working chamber, reaches a maximum permissible pressure, the safety valve opens and the pressure above the piston decreases. The piston rises as a result and pulls the closing element via the pull rod into the closed position so that the valve is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Chart Inc.
    Inventors: Vaclav Chrz, Gerd Kirchgassner, Petr Zaruba
  • Patent number: 6935363
    Abstract: A pressure control system for controlling the pressure of a process fluid stream at a certain location having a pressure regulator disposed in the process fluid stream, through which the process fluid stream flows. A first pilot controller senses the pressure of the process fluid at the location and receives a control pressure from a control source. A second pilot controller receives the control pressure from the control source and provides added pressure. An inspirator receives the added pressure from the second pilot controller and generates a differential pressure. The differential pressure is used to control the pressure of the process fluid stream within the pressure regulator. The pressure regulator comprises a first chamber and a second chamber therein separated by a flexible element and a divider is disposed in the first chamber and operative to abut against the flexible element to divide the first chamber into separate spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Hydrogenics Corporation
    Inventors: Gordon John Lamont, Chad Comeault, Roger William Harper
  • Patent number: 6843265
    Abstract: A pressure relief system for detecting and abating an overpressure in a pressurized fluid. The system includes a pressure response assembly that has a pressure responsive member, such as a buckling pin, configured to buckle when a predetermined force is applied to the member. When the buckling pin buckles, a piston slides to expose an inlet to a communication path to an actuator assembly. The actuator assembly includes a pair of sliders that move from a retracted position to an extended position when pressurized fluid enters an actuator assembly housing. The sliders have a rack that turns a pinion when the sliders move from the retracted position to the extended position. The pinion is rigidly attached to a rotatable actuator shaft. Rotation of the actuator shaft causes a valve assembly to open or close to direct the pressurized fluid through an overpressure path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: Taylor Innovations, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Julian S. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6823785
    Abstract: A printing unit has at least four cylinders that form a printer. At least two of these four cylinders rotate independently of each other. At least one of the cylinders in the group of at least four cylinders has a set up rotational speed that is not zero and that is different from a production rotational speed of that cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Koenig & Bauer Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Georg Schneider, Wolfgang Otto Reder
  • Patent number: 6796323
    Abstract: A dual seat valve which selectively supplies and releases fluid to and from a reservoir, such as a dome of a main valve in a pressure relief system. The valve comprises a housing with an interior chamber and an annular first seat surface. A valve assembly is configured for sliding movement within the housing, the valve assembly comprising a hollow stem with a distal end having an annular second seat surface. A sealing member such as a spherical ball is disposed within the interior chamber. In a first valve position, the second seat surface extends through and above the first seat surface, supporting the sealing member and permitting fluidic flow through the first seat surface. In a second valve position, the second seat surface retracts and the sealing member is supported on the first seat surface, permitting fluidic flow through the second seat surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Taylor Innovations, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Julian S. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20040182444
    Abstract: A pressure control system for controlling the pressure of a process fluid stream at a certain location, comprising: a pressure regulator disposed in the process fluid stream, through which the process fluid stream flows; a first pilot controller adapted to sense the pressure of the process fluid at the said location and receive a control pressure from a control source; a second pilot controller adapted to receive same control pressure from the control source and provide added pressure; an inspirator adapted to receive the added pressure from the second pilot controller and generate a differential pressure; wherein the differential pressure is used to control the pressure of the process fluid stream within the pressure regulator. The pressure regulator comprises a first chamber and a second chamber therein separated by a flexible element and a divider is disposed in the first chamber and operative to abut against the flexible element to divide the first chamber into separate spaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventors: Gordon John Lamont, Chad Comeault, Roger William Harper
  • Patent number: 6752168
    Abstract: A system for controlling the working conditions for mechanical pumps supplying associated devices with pressure fluid via a pipe system. A valve means (25) is placed between at least one of the pumps and an appurtenant device supplied by the pump, which valve means is arranged to open only when the pump has started up, and by adjustment of its flow cross-section seeks to maintain its downstairs pressure at a value (P3) which is predetermined from the specifications of the pipe system and said device, but gives priority to restrict its flow cross-section so that counterpressure of the pump does not fall below a given minimum value (P2) determined from the characteristic properties of the pump. The valve means is a regulating valve (25) operating in accordance with this functional principle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignees: Aker Maritime ASA, Ottestad Breathing Systems AS
    Inventors: Nils T Ottestad, Finn Wichstrom
  • Publication number: 20030079781
    Abstract: A quick closing shut-off valve includes an inlet, an outlet and a passage there between. A closing element blocks the passage when in the closed position. The closing element is interconnected to a piston via a pull rod. The piston is positioned within a working chamber that communicates with the valve outlet. A safety valve also communicates with the working chamber and is positioned above the piston. As a result, when the pressure within the tank, and thus in the working chamber, reaches a maximum permissible pressure, the safety valve opens and the pressure above the piston decreases. The piston rises as a result and pulls the closing element via the pull rod into the closed position so that the valve is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventors: Vaclav Chrz, Gerd Kirchgassner, Petr Zaruba
  • Patent number: 6418956
    Abstract: A pressure controller is provided for a pressure regulator. The pressure controller controls a pressure regulator to deliver process fluid at a regulated pressure from a variable supply. The pressure controller includes a control pressure source independent of the process fluid. One such pressure source could be compressed air which enters the controller through a restriction. The control pressure passes through the controller to the regulator where it exerts pressure on the pressure regulator. The controller is interconnected with the process fluid line at a point of regulation and senses pressure in a diaphragm chamber of the controller. A valve rides on the diaphragm and a bias is exerted against the valve to oppose pressure on the diaphragm. The bias tends to move the valve to a closed position. The bias means is adjustable. The process fluid pressure in the diaphragm chamber exerts a force on the diaphragm and valve, against the bias, to open the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: Plast-o-Matic Valves, Inc.
    Inventor: Gerald Bloom
  • Patent number: 6386228
    Abstract: A control device includes a pressure-displacement transducer for triggering a control part for activating a safety valve of a pressure vessel. A space in the pressure-displacement transducer can be connected to a blow-off tank through a drainage line. A first embodiment includes a switchover valve device which is associated with the drainage line and connects the space to a take-off line instead of to the blow-off tank when the pressure in the blow-off tank is above a limiting pressure. A second embodiment includes a hydraulic compensating system which exerts a first force on the pressure-displacement transducer, from a pressure in the blow-off tank. That force counteracts a second force produced in the space by that pressure and in particular compensates for that force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Hermann-Josef Conrads, Erwin Laurer, Jürgen Model
  • Patent number: 6386227
    Abstract: A non-flowing pilot valve is disclosed having a sense piston assembly (16) and a feedback sleeve (40) co-axially mounted within a valve body (12). A dome-line chamber (32) and an exhaust-line chamber (34) are isolated from each other by a feedback sleeve top shoulder (48) contacting a pop seal (52) on the valve body (12) below set pressure. At a few percentage points of inlet (19) pressure below set pressure, a reseat seal of a foot (20) portion of the sense piston (16) contacts the bottom shoulder (48) of the feedback sleeve (40) thereby closing off the dome-line chamber (32) from below and above and “locking in” dome line pressure. An increase in inlet (19) pressure above set pressure causes the sense piston (16) to move up simultaneously carrying feedback sleeve (40) with it thereby opening the dome-line chamber (32) to the exhaust-line chamber (34) below the open top shoulder (48).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Flow Safe, Inc.
    Inventor: Walter W. Powell
  • Patent number: 6325088
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method, apparatus and system for using sacrificial buckling pin technology for a reliable actuated safety relief valve and for a pilot valve system. The buckling pin fails at a predicted, predetermined system pressure through transfer of force exerted by the system pressure on a sensing piston or diaphragm to the buckling pin. The buckling pin failure triggers the release of a latch mechanism that releases the actuator assembly to slide away from the valve seat to initiate relief flow. The use of the buckling pin as a trigger for release of a latch provides for valves with high flow rates without the use of large, unmanageable buckling pins. The use of a buckling pin valve as a pilot valve to control a single or multiple relief valves operating together as a pressure relief system is preferred as particularly advantageous.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Inventor: Gary W. Scantlin
  • Patent number: 6318406
    Abstract: A pilot operated safety relief valve (14) having a main piston valve member (26). A dome chamber (42) is provided in the valve body (18) over piston valve member (26) and a cap (44) forms a closure for dome chamber (42). A pilot valve (46) is mounted on the cap (44) and has a diaphragm actuated fluid inlet sensing tube (60) received within a bore (30) of the piston valve member (26). Inlet fluid pressure is communicated through bore (61) of sensing tube (60) to the inlet fluid sensing chamber (84) on the outer side of diaphragm (65). Exhaust chamber (56) is positioned between dome chamber (42) and inlet sensing chamber (84). Adjustment spring (67) continuously urges O-ring (72) in dome chamber (42) to a seated position on seat (70). An annular clearance (78) is provided between sensing tube (60) and piston (26) for providing a restricted fluid flow between dome chamber (42) and the inlet (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Tyco Flow Control, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeff A. Conley