Valve Closes In Response To Excessive Flow Patents (Class 137/498)
  • Patent number: 7434595
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes an automatic excess flow shut-off mechanism for preventing excess flow between an inlet and an outlet of the assembly. The excess flow shut-off mechanism is adapted to automatically stop fluid flow through the valve assembly when the flow exceeds a specified flow rate. The excess flow shut-off mechanism prevents flow when it's set and allows flow when it's reset. The valve assembly also includes a manual set mechanism for setting the excess flow shut-off mechanism even when there is no excess flow. The valve assembly additionally includes a manual reset mechanism for resetting the shut-off mechanism and for allowing excess flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: Watts Water Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig Schmitt
  • Publication number: 20080006330
    Abstract: The present invention provides a throttle mechanism typically comprised of a nut, an orifice sleeve, a pressure spring and main body; wherein said nut and said orifice sleeve are possessed of an inlet individually at the top end, the diameter of the inlet of the orifice sleeve is smaller than the nut's, said both inlets construct to the intake pathway. The bottom rim of the orifice sleeve and an inner platform of the main body construct a ring outlet with the circular gap. Due to the structure including a nut, an orifice sleeve, and so on, the present invention has fewer numbers of parts, and simple structure features. By means of the different water pressure exerting on the orifice sleeve in the pipeline, the orifice area of discharging is changed so that the out-flowing water is kept in stable and consistent, the operation of it is smooth and reliable, by means of the preloading spring, the restriction flow can be controlled accurately and smoothly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2006
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Inventor: Huasong ZHOU
  • Patent number: 7273062
    Abstract: A shut-off valve for preventing the flow of liquid through a conduit is described herein. The valve includes a valve body which defines a fluid passage, a portion of which can be venturi-shaped. The valve also includes a flow barrier which has a dimension sufficient to block fluid flow through the passage. The flow barrier is movable between an open position which allows fluid flow through the passage, and a closed position which prevents such flow. A target for detecting liquid flow is pivotally attached to the flow barrier, and is exposed to liquid flow and gas flow when the flow barrier is in the open position. When liquid flow hits the target, it swings away from the direction of flow, thereby pivoting the flow barrier to the closed position. Related methods for preventing the flow of liquid through a conduit are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: David Flint Stender, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7231937
    Abstract: An automatic shutoff valve is provided. The valve is preferably constructed of a check valve (which is normally shut) and a shutoff valve which is open during static, no-flow, operation. Upon initiation of flow, even a drip flow, the check valve opens, and the pressure differential from the inlet to the outlet causes a piston in the shutoff valve to move toward a shut position. As long as the pressure differential stops before the piston closes, the shutoff valve resets to the fully open position. However, if the shutoff valve shuts, it preferably must be manually reset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventors: Ralph G. Greene, Nelson Edwards
  • Patent number: 7134434
    Abstract: A pressure support system having enhanced noise reduction and a valve assembly for use in pressure support system. The pressure support system includes a pressure generator having an inlet and an outlet. A first conduit defining a tortuous path is coupled between a gas source and the inlet of the pressure generator. A second conduit coupled to the outlet of the pressure generator delivers the flow of gas from the pressure generator to a patient. A valve assembly communicates gas from the second conduit to the first conduit to control the pressure or a rate of the flow of gas in the second conduit. By communicating gas from the second conduit to the first conduit, the noise associated with exhausting gas from the second conduit is muffled by the tortuous path of the first conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: RIC Investments, LLC
    Inventors: Patrick W Truitt, Richard J Lordo, Joseph J Gesner
  • Patent number: 6988509
    Abstract: The riser line shutoff valve where oxygen flows into the valve from the inlet and through an orifice in the piston. This orifice creates differential pressure between the upstream and downstream side of the piston. When the differential pressure across the piston exceeds the spring load and friction between the piston and the valve body, the piston moves to the left and seats on the brass probe in the conical area of the piston, preventing the flow of oxygen. The valve will not open until the upstream pressure is removed. The base of the brass probe has holes, allowing oxygen to flow out of the outlet port when the valve is open. The probe is threaded into the probe base allowing for valve adjustment for proper operation. The spring simultaneously serves the functions of retaining the probe base and providing a piston load to keep the piston open until the critical flow rate is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Carleton Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Frampton, William Siska, Glenn Maslowsky
  • Patent number: 6962165
    Abstract: A safety device for insertion into a pipeline (K) in which fluid circulates in an upstream (X?) and a downstream (X+) direction, comprises a tube (1) that provides the fluid with a central circulatory passage (CC) regulated by a central valve (3) that closes in the event of an excessive flow of this fluid. There is an annular valve closure member (4) which is elastically malleable, mounted to the external periphery of the tube (1), and provides the fluid with a peripheral circulatory passage which it selectively obstructs by subjecting a radial expansion in the event of an excessive flow of fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Gaz de France
    Inventors: Cyrille Delprat, David Leme, Lahouari Bouajaj, Sylvain Pineau
  • Patent number: 6953052
    Abstract: A fuel system shut-off valve includes a valve body bounding a fuel space, the valve body having an inlet opening and an outlet opening communicating with the fuel space. A piston assembly in the fuel space includes a main piston member that is movable relative to the valve body and an auxiliary piston member that is movable relative to the main piston member. The piston assembly either allows or prevents fuel flow through the valve from the inlet opening towards the outlet opening depending on the position of the auxiliary piston member. A force member urges the piston assembly towards the inlet opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Wartsila Technology Oy AB
    Inventor: Kai Lehtonen
  • Patent number: 6892757
    Abstract: Hydraulic valve with a valve chest (1) provided with a substantially cylindrical internal chamber (5) which may be closed by a valve disc (9) which with its conical rim (9?) engages the facial rim of the internal chamber (5), an insert member (3) being arranged in a section of the internal chamber (5) and structured as a member of sprocket-like cross-section with circular gaps (3?) between teeth forming valve passages (4) with the internal wall of the chest, the valve disc stem (6) permeating the insert member (3) being a one-piece structure and provided with a safety nut (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventor: Gisela Weber
  • Patent number: 6857440
    Abstract: In a method for a safety valve plus such a safety valve, the safety valve has the form of a valve body axially displaceable in a cavity with an inlet on either side of which are arranged outlets, whereby liquid and/or gas flow takes place from the inlet and past the valve body via a flow path to the outlets. On the valve body side, the flow path is provided with a structure that raises the friction in relation to the liquid and/or gas flow between the inlet and outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Lind Finance & Development AB
    Inventor: Björn Lind
  • Publication number: 20040221893
    Abstract: A flexible connector incorporates an excess flow shutoff at its inlet to prevent uncontrolled flow in the event of a failure such as rupture or separation of the connector. A shutoff sleeve moves in a body between an upstream, open position and a downstream, closed position. A spring biases the shutoff sleeve toward the open position. The sleeve includes a flow metering passage, and a pressure drop resulting from excess flow through the passage moves the sleeve to the closed position against a shutoff seat. A time delay is provided by a damping system including a variable volume damper chamber defined in part by a flexible bladder. Upstream pressure is communicated to the damper chamber by a restricted flow passage provided by metal to metal contact of a washer against a body surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventor: Dwight N. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6789561
    Abstract: An automatically operating valve for use for example in a forecourt fuel pump has a body (10) defining a flow passage (20) within which is formed a valve seat (22), the body having a weakened zone (16) around the flow passage (20) such that an impact on the body will fracture the body at the weakened zone. A valve member (30) is mounted for movement within the flow passage (20) and is engageable with the valve seat (22) to close the valve. A closing mechanism effects movement of the valve member (30) to its closed position in the event that the body (10) is fractured at the weakened zone. Further, the valve member (30) is configured to move to its closed position under the influence of excessive flow of liquid through the flow passage (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Graham William Osborne
  • Publication number: 20040103943
    Abstract: A safety device for insertion into a pipeline (K) in which fluid circulates in an upstream (X−) and a downstream (X−) direction, comprises a tube (1) that provides the fluid with a central circulatory passage (CC) regulated by a central valve (3) that closes in the event of an excessive flow of this fluid. There is an annular valve closure member (4) which is elastically malleable, mounted to the external periphery of the tube (1), and provides the fluid with a peripheral circulatory passage which it selectively obstructs by subjecting a radial expansion in the event of an excessive flow of fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Inventors: Cyrille Delprat, David Leme, Lahouari Bouajaj, Sylvain Pineau
  • Patent number: 6655259
    Abstract: A full-flow mechanical failsafe is composed of a cylindrical shell having a movable sealing plug therein, for attachment to a reaction tube of a fluid treatment system, such as a gas clean up system in a power plant. The sealing plug rests on locking spheres within the shell during normal operation. Upon reaction tube failure or breakage, the flow of fluid will be substantially increased, causing an increase in upward pressure against the sealing plug, forcing it upward off the spheres and into a sealing contact with a flow aperture, shutting off fluid flow. The spheres move downward into a locking position upon movement of the sealing plug, to secure the sealing plug in its upward sealing position. The failsafe can be used in fluid flow control systems other than fluid filtering systems, such as oil or gas pipelines, and can be used to prevent improper reverse fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Southern Research Institute
    Inventor: Todd R. Snyder
  • Patent number: 6656254
    Abstract: A full-flow mechanical failsafe (100) is composed of a cylindrical shell (101) having a movable sealing plug (105) therein, for attachment to a filter element (110) of a fluid filtering system, such as a gas clean up system in a power plant. The sealing plug (105) rests on locking spheres (107) within the shell (101) during normal operation. Upon filter failure or breakage, the flow fluid will be substantially increased, causing an increase in upward pressure against the sealing plug (105), forcing it upward off the spheres (107) and into sealing contact with a flow aperture (102, 103), shutting off fluid flow. The spheres (107) move downward into a locking position upon movement of the sealing plug (105), to secure the sealing plug (105) in its upward sealing position. The failsafe (100) can be used in fluid flow control systems other than fluid filtering systems, such as oil or gas pipelines, and can be used to prevent improper reverse fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Southern Research Institute
    Inventor: Todd R. Snyder
  • Patent number: 6619309
    Abstract: An excess flow valve includes a linear actuator that effectively isolates a defective CRT from others under preparation when the defective CRT causes the vacuum drawn on the exhaust cart to be compromised. During the manufacture of CRT's a manufacturing step requires that a vacuum be drawn on all CRT's while baking in an exhaust oven. This process is usually performed simultaneously on a plurality of CRT's connected to an exhaust cart by a manifold such that if a defect were to occur to one CRT that breaks breaking the vacuum, all the other CRT's under preparation would be compromised. This excess flow valve with the linear acutator and a method of operating it prevents excess damage to otherwise non-damaged CRTs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Monks
  • Patent number: 6443180
    Abstract: A velocity fuse for a hydraulic line shuts off fluid flow when the flow rate exceeds a preset flow value. The shut off value may be adjusted while the fuse is mounted in the hydraulic circuit. A damping mechanism of the dash pot type prevents the fuse from responding to flow surges of short duration. A poppet or piston within a tubular housing reciprocates between an open position held by a spring and a closed position when flow through an adjustable aperture causes a great enough pressure drop to overcome the spring bias. The damping mechanism is unaffected by the flow rate setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Predator Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Duane Samuelson, Gordon Yowell, Stephen Kaylor
  • Patent number: 6390199
    Abstract: A safety valve for use in a wellbore formed in an earth formation, comprising a valve body having a fluid passage for passage of a stream of hydrocarbon fluid flowing from the earth formation via the wellbore to the earth surface, a closure member movable relative to the valve body between an open position in which the fluid passage is open and a closed position in which the closure member closes the fluid passage, and an activating device for selectively subjecting the closure member to a drag force of selected magnitude, the drag force being exerted by the stream of fluid and inducing the closure member to move from the open position to the closed position thereof. The safety valve further comprises control means for controlling the activating device to subject the closure member to said drag force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventor: Wilhelmus Hubertus Paulus Maria Heijnen
  • Patent number: 6363963
    Abstract: An excess flow control valve which automatically shuts off when an excessive flow of liquid or gaseous material is detected. The valve uses a flow sensitive piston which is drawn up to cover the valve outlet when the flow exceeds a specified rate. When the piston is seated against the valve outlet, flow ceases, or is reduced dramatically, and the piston is held in place by the pressure of the supply. Additionally, ports are provided to activate a pressure differential device which can be used for remote monitoring and/or valve position, i.e., a red flag or switch, if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Inventor: William C. White
  • Patent number: 6349771
    Abstract: The present invention generally provides a system and method for selectively sealing a drill string or other tubular member. In one aspect, a sealing member, such as a valve, allows a certain level of flow of drilling fluids and/or other fluids through one or more flow channels when the valve is open. To close the valve, the flow rate is increased so that a backpressure develops and urges the valve to a closed position. The valve can remain in position in the drill string and alternately open and close depending on the flow rate and/or the pressure drop through the valve. The valve also comprises a removable plug disposed in the valve to provide access with, for example, wireline tools to a region below the valve in a wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventor: Mike A. Luke
  • Patent number: 6345641
    Abstract: A fluid-activatable shut-off device, configured as a shut-off valve, has a valve housing formed with a flow passage therethrough and a movably supported valve body, which is movable between an open valve position and a closed valve position. In the open valve position, the valve body is mainly withdrawn from the flow passage, which is thereby essentially cleared. In the closed valve position, the valve body blocks the flow passage. The valve body is arranged to close the valve by abnormal flow conditions by a portion being formed so that the flowing fluid provides a lifting force which affects the valve body and seeks to move it towards the closed position. The valve body may thereby close by an abnormal increase in the fluid flow rate, density or viscosity. The portion may also be supported by an expansion pad arranged to push the lifting surface further into the flow passage as a consequence of changes in the fluid pressure and/or temperature, thereby providing increased lift so that the valve body closes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Inventor: Jan Inge Eielsen
  • Patent number: 6308730
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Mertik Maxitrol GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Klaus Schulze
  • Patent number: 6202683
    Abstract: A fluid flow fuse has a body, which includes an inlet and an outlet with a valve seat therebetween. A valve stem having a valve member thereon is mounted in the body, and the valve member is operably connected to a diaphragm, which separates a region within the body into a pair of separate pressure chambers. Fluid passages are formed in the body communicating the separate pressure chambers with downstream pressure from the outlet and upstream pressure from the inlet. The pressure differential between the chambers is minimized so that at least one spring will normally hold the valve member in an open position, until the pressure differential reaches a predetermined amount, whereby the valve member is slowly and smoothly closed until fluid flow through the fuse is stopped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Q-Fuse, LLC
    Inventor: Robert P. Smith
  • Patent number: 6173737
    Abstract: A bidirectional flow control valve for use in a hydraulic system to regulate fluid flow in either direction of flow through the valve. The valve includes a housing, a slidable sleeve, two opposite springs, and two opposite cap nuts. The housing has a bore and a sidewall with first ports located adjacent to one end and second ports located adjacent to the other end. The slidable sleeve has an interior wall disposed therein to form a first chamber and a second chamber. The interior wall has an axial port to permit flow of fluid therethrough. The first spring is disposed within the first chamber of the slidable sleeve and constrained therein by the cap nut. The second spring has the same tension as the first spring and disposed within the second chamber of the slidable sleeve and constrained therein by the cap nut. The slidable sleeve is self-adjustable to an equilibrium position within the valve housing to at least partially open the first and second ports of the valve housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Ricon Corporation
    Inventor: Stanton Saucier
  • Patent number: 6167969
    Abstract: The valve, has an orifice and cooperating poppet with the poppet situated to approach the orifice to an extent determined by a controlling crosshead that reciprocates axially in response to manipulation of the mud flow moving through the valve. The amount of restriction provided by the valve is varied by selected manipulation of the drilling fluid flow controls at the surface. Pressure provided to controlled machinery is regulated by a valve by-pass channel. Changes in the standpipe pressure indicates the state of the valve action achieved down hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: Quantum Drilling Motors, Inc
    Inventor: William N. Schoeffler
  • Patent number: 6123101
    Abstract: An safety valve includes a housing for defining a fluid flow passageway having a spring loaded seat body and spring mounted therein. The seat body is held in an open position by the spring and is composed of an elastomer material. According to the novel method of using the safety valve, when fluid flows against the seat body a resulting drag force causes the spring to compress. When the fluid flow reaches a predetermined excess flow rate level, the seat body sealingly engages the flow passage to substantially inhibit the flow of fluid except for a small by-pass flow passing downstream via a small channel disposed within the seat body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Magne-Flo Corporation
    Inventors: Wallace W. Velie, deceased, by Neil Velie, executor
  • Patent number: 6112758
    Abstract: A gas line shut-off assembly which is automatically actuated in the event of a catastrophic break of a gas line, wherein gas is retained safely inside the remaining intact portion of the gas line. The gas line shut-off assembly is preferably composed of two mutually cooperating components, a breakaway and a shut-off. The breakaway has a weakened wall section. When connected to a gas line, the breakaway serves as a weakest location of the gas line so that should the gas pipe thereof be subjected to shear forces sufficient to break (ie., rupture) it, the gas line will break firstly at the breakaway. The shut-off is located upstream of the breakaway and is composed of a valve body and a perforated piston. The piston has a head and the valve body has seat, wherein the piston is movable in the valve body between a rest location and a seated location. At the seated location the piston head is sealably seated at the seat, thereby preventing gas flow through the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Wooten
  • Patent number: 5921275
    Abstract: A fluid valve including a valve body, a flow control member and a cavitation prevention assembly. The valve body has an inlet, an outlet, a fluid passage communicating fluid therebetween, and means for selectively opening and closing fluid communication between the inlet and the outlet. The flow control member is positioned within the fluid passage and has a central passage through which the fluid advances. The cavitation prevention assembly is positioned within the flow passage and is in flow communication with the inlet and the flow control member. The cavitation prevention assembly controls the pressure of the fluid entering the central passage to a level which is sufficiently low to prevent cavitation of the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: David G. Knop, Michael R. DuHack
  • Patent number: 5868161
    Abstract: In a damper valve for use in a steering damper arrangement of a motor vehicle having a hydrostatic displacement motor for operating the vehicle steering mechanism wherein hydraulic fluid lines extending between the hydraulic motor and a servo-valve include the damper valve, the damper valve has a throttling arrangement which permits fluid flow in one direction and limits fluid flow in the opposite direction but permits essentially unlimited fluid flow in both directions as long as the pressure difference across the damper valve is below a predetermined threshold value so as to permit unrestricted normal steering movements of the vehicle steering system, but dampen shock movements thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Daimler-Benz AG
    Inventors: Ulrich Asbrand, Aydogan Cakmaz, Juergen Class
  • Patent number: 5860448
    Abstract: An oil pressure supply valve for a traction control system, the structure of which is simple and small in size, that improves the function of the traction control system by securing enough flowing volume of the brake oil. The oil pressure supply valve includes: a body; internal passages connecting a master cylinder connection passage and a pump inlet connection passage that are formed perpendicular to each other in the body; a valve operating member including a valve seat for opening and closing the internal passages; a valve element having a ball valve which contacts or separates from the valve seat; a fixing screw member which is integrally formed with the valve element; and a spring supporting the valve operating member. Also, in the fixing screw member is formed an air passage through which air passes when the valve operating member moves up and down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: Mando Machinery Corporation
    Inventors: Sang-Cheol Lee, Young-Il Kim
  • Patent number: 5799684
    Abstract: A frangible hydraulic fuse includes a fitting secured to a sleeve by a plurality of frangible pins. In normal operation, hydraulic fluid flows through the fuse through radial ports of a sleeve to which the fitting is engaged by the frangible pins. A compression spring urges a poppet slideably positioned in the sleeve to a position out of engagement with the radial ports. Upon rupture of the frangible pins, the fitting is released and hydraulic fluid may flow unimpeded through the radial ports creating a pressure drop which causes the slideable poppet to move to a position overlying and closing the radial ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventor: George B. Cluett
  • Patent number: 5709239
    Abstract: A compact, automatic mechanical fluid shut-off device which can detect a sustained leak in a pipe as well as a pipe burst and automatically shuts off fluid flow in the pipe. The device is detachable, easy to install, and easy to retrofit into existing pipes. The device employs a unique combination of bias mechanism and fluid flow channels to achieve an automated method of stopping a fluid flow when there is an abnormal fluid flow in the pipe due to pipe burst or sustained leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Inventors: Frank Macalello, Christine Macalello, Ed Sapigao
  • Patent number: 5641271
    Abstract: Pump (1) includes a pneumatic valve assembly (98) having a chamber (105) which is supplied by compressed air via an inlet pipe. Included within chamber (105) is a valve (109) with a chamber (111) divided into two separate compartments (112,113) by a pliant diaphragm (114). Diaphragm (114) is biased toward compartment (112) by a spring (115) and supports a plunger (116) which extends from chamber (111) and includes a frusto conical end (117) for selectively engaging seat face (99) and preventing air flow between chambers (105,90). Two air bleed passageways (119,120) respectively extend from chamber (90) and compartment (113) to atmosphere for allowing a gradual return to atmospheric pressure therein when the supply of compressed air is discontinued. A further bleed passageway (121) extends through diaphragm (114) to ensure a gradual equalization of pressure in compartments (112,113) such that the diaphragm will return to its original biased position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Assignee: M.I.M. Holdings Limited
    Inventors: Alan J. Forrester, Paavo M. Laukkanen
  • Patent number: 5634489
    Abstract: An improved hydraulic fuse to control hydraulic fluid flow through the fuse comprising an outer body; an annular metering body cylinder within the outer body and defining a bore, and a flow control port, whereby a flow path is defined between the outer body and the metering body cylinder and to the port; a piston slidable longitudinally in the bore to control flow through the port; first and second flow control members which are relatively slidable longitudinally in the outer body, and in the paths of fluid flow to the port, and to the piston; a threshold spring urging the first member in one direction longitudinally and a metering spring urging the second member in the opposite direction longitudinally; the members and springs cooperating to effect forward flow to the flow control port along the path as forward flow increases to level at which a portion of the flow is diverted to act on the piston, causing the piston to move toward the flow control port and to close the port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Assignee: Dowty Decoto, Inc.
    Inventor: Tracy V. Tschauner
  • Patent number: 5601111
    Abstract: A valve housing has a chamber formed therewithin, and an inlet and an outlet for accommodating fluid flow through the chamber along a given flow path. The housing further confines a free ball therein, and hydraulic-fluid filed compartments with flexible walls. Intermediate the inlet and outlet, the housing has a valve seat formed. Fluid pressure in the chamber causes one compartment to collapse and the flexible wall of the other to expand. The expanding wall, and capturing fluid flow, moves the ball to the seat to halt flow through the chamber, after an initial period of free flow. The method comprises providing the chambered housing, disposing the ball in the chamber, communicating the inlet with a pump outlet, and confining the flexible-walled compartments in the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Assignee: ITT Flygt AB
    Inventor: Bengt Sodergard
  • Patent number: 5597011
    Abstract: A regulator including a movably, preferably hingedly, mounted member having a distal face, exposed to a reference pressure, and a frontal face, exposed to fluid passing through the regulator. Attached to the member is a structure that variably impedes fluid flowing through the regulator. The amount that this structure impedes the fluid flow varies as a function of the difference between the pressure of fluid on the frontal face of the member and the reference pressure. The impeder may be an integral part of the piston extending into the path of the fluid flowing through the regulator, or it may be a separate structure attached to the member. As the member moves in response to changes in pressure differential across the piston, each movable segment is displaced with respect to its corresponding fixed segment. As the corresponding segments are further displaced with respect to each other, the impedance to flow increases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Inventor: David W. Palmer
  • Patent number: 5551476
    Abstract: A gas line limiter valve is preferably built into a stiffener used to connect gas lines. The valve includes a through-passage having a large bore and a small bore downstream from the large bore, with a conical valve seat between. A central reservoir may be disposed between the large and small bores. A movable float includes a piston disposed within the large bore, a stem disposed within the small bore, and a popper to seal against the valve seat when the float is moved downstream. A coil spring urges the float upstream. The stem and the piston are cylindrical. The piston and large bore form a first orifice, and the stem and small bore form a second orifice. With the second orifice being smaller than the first, the second orifice and the buffer gas inside the reservoir create a resistance to the valve closing during sudden temporary drops in the downstream pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Assignee: UMAC Incorporated
    Inventor: Joseph M. McGinnis
  • Patent number: 5535778
    Abstract: A self-closing valve for flushing drip-irrigation lines at the beginning of every irrigation cycle. The valve comprises a housing defining an enclosed space, having an inlet portion mountable to the line end, allowing free communication with the water of the line. The housing comprises an elastic membrane dividing the enclosed space into upstream and downstream compartments with respect to said flow, with a passage communicating between the said compartments. A discharge opening is formed in the upstream compartment. Flow impeding means are associated with said passage for restricting the flow of water from the upstream compartment into the downstream compartment, said flow being effective to flex the membrane in the upstream direction until it closes against the discharge opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Inventor: Abi Zakai
  • Patent number: 5474105
    Abstract: A pneumatic fluid flow limiting device which is pressure compensated and resets automatically when the pneumatic fluid driven device is shut off. Pressure compensation is accomplished by a vented differential diameter chamber and reset is accomplished by a bypass orifice in a spool valve which further may be variable in flow to accommodate different flow requirements for tool operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: The Aro Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen D. Able, Raymond D. Carter
  • Patent number: 5469883
    Abstract: A flow modulation device is provided for restricting fluid flow exhausted from a first, actuator-sided conduit toward a second, reservoir-sided conduit to an acceptable rate in the event of sudden pressure drop within the second conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Assignee: Daewoo Heavy Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Seung H. Lee
  • Patent number: 5465751
    Abstract: An excess flow control valve for telescopical receipt in a cylindrical fluid distribution pipe to control downstream flow therein. The excess flow valve includes a cylindrical pressure reducer fitting for mounting the valve in the pipe and is formed with an upstream facing annular valve seat and a downstream diverging venturi nozzle therethrough. A poppet valve barrel having a central chamber is mounted to the pressure reducer fitting, the chamber formed with a plurality of peripheral inlet flow passages disposed upstream of the fitting and further including at the upstream end thereof, a gland. A poppet having an cylindrical base and an upstream projecting stem is slidably received in the chamber and the stem is received in the gland. The stem includes a stop ring at the upstream end thereof and a compression spring is disposed over the stem in an interposed relationship between the valve barrel and the stop ring to bias the poppet away from the valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Assignee: R.W. Lyall & Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward K. Newton
  • Patent number: 5462081
    Abstract: A poppet type excess flow valve comprises a body forming a valve chamber having a first portion of a first diameter adjacent a first end and a second portion of a second smaller diameter adjacent second end. A valve seat is located between the first and second portions of the valve chamber. A poppet element is mounted in the valve chamber and includes a first section in the form of a hollow cylindrical body extending into the second portion of the valve chamber and terminating therein in an open end. The outer diameter of the hollow cylindrical body section is only slightly less than the diameter of the second portion of the valve chamber for guided sliding movement therein. The poppet element further includes a second section located in the first portion of the valve chamber and including an end wall carrying a valving surface extending radially outward for cooperation with the valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignee: Nupro Company
    Inventors: Robert V. Perusek, Ulrich H. Koch, Gregory S. Kalata
  • Patent number: 5433243
    Abstract: An automatic fluid flow control device and method are disclosed. The fluid flow control device provides a constant flow rate of strained fluid despite varying differential pressures and employs a combination of a unitary body with a first valve to open or close the device to fluid flow and an integrated, removable strainer in the form of a cup that encircles an inlet of a removable flow control valve. The body is essentially in the shape of a "Y" and provides a compact valve with minimum threaded joints and access to the various components thereof with minimum disassembly. The removable strainer is configured and arranged in a manner so that fluid flows from the outside to the inside of the cup-shaped strainer, allowing easier use and cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Assignee: Griswold Controls
    Inventors: David E. Griswold, Ali Marandi
  • Patent number: 5348179
    Abstract: A capping assembly for attachment to a ferrule of a manhole assembly in a tanker truck having a cap which is provided with a central aperture for venting. The cap is further provided with threads for accommodating the threads of the ferrule. A diaphragm having a flexible central member larger than the aperture of the cap and peripheral apertures is fittably connectable to the ferrule and positionable between the cap and the opening of the ferrule. The diaphragm includes an outer circumferential beveled surface for seatingly engaging a beveled upper inner surface of the ferrule.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Assignee: Walker Stainless Equipment Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Lynn M. Walker
  • Patent number: 5293898
    Abstract: In a safety closing device for gas pipe systems (1) with a valve (2) which is capable of being pressed against a valve seating (9) in a housing, especially a tubular housing, the valve (2), as a disc valve capable of being moved in the axial direction of the tubular housing (1), is movably supported against the force of a spring (5). The cross-section area of the valve head (7) is made smaller than the clear cross section of the housing (1) and is kept at a distance from the inner wall of the tubular housing, and, furthermore, the gas supply connection (20) is provided on the side of the valve head (7) facing away from the spring (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Assignee: Pipelife Rohrsysteme Gesellschaft m.b.H.
    Inventor: Peter Masloff
  • Patent number: 5280131
    Abstract: A two way fluid flow check valve includes a plug movable reciprocally lengthwise of the valve against either of respective valve seats within a valve housing. A fixed partition which acts as a piston is located within a cylindrical cavity of the plug. The plug is slidable on a pair of hollow tubes centrally of the housing, the tubes supporting the fixed partition therebetween. The tubes provide respective fluid passages from either end of the housing into the plug cavity on the opposite side of the partition. Upon leakage in the pipe on either side of the valve, the plug will move in response to internal and external fluid pressures from the opposite side, towards the direction of lowered fluid pressure, and will seat against a mating valve seat at that end of the housing, thereby closing the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1994
    Inventor: Claude A. Sarro
  • Patent number: 5257653
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a safety release disconnection for a fluid conduit. The connection includes a pin and a U-shaped slot with an ejector spring adjustably biased by a loading nut. Check valves are provided in both connection elements and are opened by contact or interfacing of the valves. A rigid moment arm points in a direction perpendicular to the direction that a vehicle pulls away from the filling stand. A pull away while the system is connected to the vehicle will trigger the safety release disconnection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Assignee: Precision General Inc.
    Inventor: Spencer M. Nimberger
  • Patent number: 5241984
    Abstract: An elastically movable valve having a through hole is installed at a required position in the path of a fluid. At the time of normal operation, the fluid is allowed to pass through the through hole, but if the fluid pressure is increased to a certain level over that of normal operation, the valve is elastically deformed by this high fluid pressure allowing it to come into contact with its valve seat and stopping the fluid flow.Since it has no sliding part for the motion of a movable valve. The dust are not generated and, the fluid used in a fluid circuit requiring a high degree of cleanness is always guaranteed to have a high degree of cleanness. As there is no space for the fluid to stagnate, the new fluid is not partially contaminated with the previous fluid after exchanging fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1993
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Takashi Onjohji, Mituo Nakamura
  • Patent number: 5234022
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for controlling discharge of fuel vapor from the fuel tank. The apparatus comprises a housing defining an interior region, an assembly for defining an outer and an inner flow passageway for fuel vapor in the interior region, an assembly for selectively blocking flow of fuel vapor through the outer flow passageway, the blocking assembly being movable between an unblocking position and a blocking position, and an assembly for yieldably biasing the blocking assembly toward the unblocking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1993
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Robert S. Harris
  • Patent number: 5234027
    Abstract: A flow restricting device is described which includes a conduit with a flow inhibitor therein. A plug stem is placed inside a passage in the inhibitor such that it can slide axially, while the head of the plug, which has a larger cross-sectional area than the passage, remains outside the passage. When the fluid pressure upstream of the flow inhibitor is greater than the fluid pressure downstream thereof, the head of the plug is forced against the face of the inhibitor and flow is restricted. To facilitate resetting of the inhibitor, the head allows a small amount of flow to pass to the downstream side, thereby equalizing the pressure across the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1993
    Assignee: UGI Corporation
    Inventor: Frank J. Naples