Abstract: A vent valve, and a vent valve assembly, for a liquid dispensing container, employ a vent disc having small open vent holes in cooperation with an overlying thin flexible flap that covers and closes the vent holes to limit liquid pressure on the holes when the container is upright, yet require little suction pressure to move the flap to draw liquid or vent through the holes. The vent valve can be used in a bottom cap that is attachable to the bottom open end of the container. The vent valve assembly includes such a bottom cap, a sealing member for sealing the bottom cap to the container, and a vent valve. The vent valve and/or bottom cap have an elevated vent disc and a top portion having the thin flexible flap.

Abstract: In some embodiments, an air admittance valve includes a base, a screen plate and a diaphragm engageable with the screen plate. The diaphragm may include a first center disk having a stem and a membrane coupled to the first center disk. The membrane may have a continuous material sized to extend beyond a perimeter of the first center disk, be formed of a material more pliable than the first center disk and be adapted to be coupled to the first center disk through the center disk stem.

Abstract: A combination pressure relief and vacuum relief valve for mounting on a storage tank is disclosed as having two vertical mounting connections of different elevations; a pressure relief valve mounted on one connection; and a vacuum relief valve mounted on the other connection such that said vacuum relief valve is higher in elevation than said pressure relief valve. The valve is sanitary for use in food and pharmaceutical production and storage and has highly polished surfaces to prevent processed material from sticking. The valve also includes special sloping surfaces in the body and connections to prevent processed material from standing in the valves. The pressure valve and vacuum valve may be removed separately or rotated separately for mounting. The combination valve may be attached on storage tanks or other vessels or conduits.

Abstract: A vacuum relief unit and method for venting air into a pool pumping system when a pressure level within the system drops below a first pressure level limit. The unit includes a closed air chamber, a device for venting chamber air from the air chamber into the pool pumping system when the pressure level in the pool pumping system drops below the first pressure level limit, a device for venting atmospheric air into the air chamber when the pressure level within the air chamber drops below a second pressure level limit that is lower than the first pressure level limit, and a device for delaying operation of the atmospheric air venting device when the pressure within the air chamber is no longer below the second pressure level limit.

Abstract: A pressure relief door system for use in a duct for relieving positive or negative pressure within the duct includes a frame to be mounted in the duct; a gasket in the frame; a hinged door mounted on the frame and sealing against the gasket; and an adjustable pressure relief mechanism normally holding the hinged door against the gasket and permitting the hinged door to open in response to a positive or negative pressure change. The frame and door can be mounted such that the door opens either outwardly from the duct in response to excess positive pressure or inwardly into the duct in response to excess negative pressure. The adjustable pressure relief mechanism may be magnetic.

Abstract: An air admittance valve assembly for venting ambient air into a system while preventing the escape of gases within the system. A housing includes first and second passageways in fluid communication through a valve seat therebetween. A flat generally thin, flexible, preferably resilient free-floating sealing membrane is positioned for sealing engagement by gravity only atop the valve seat. Ambient air in the second passageway will freely flow into the first passageway and the system at system air pressure less than atmospheric pressure while air within the system is prevented from flowing outwardly therefrom through the valve assembly.

Abstract: A unitary valve housing has an upper and lower portion. The upper portion has an inner chamber for accommodating two spaced apart balls and a cylindrical side skirt with oppositely positioned openings. The lower portion is cylindrical in shape and has a top shelf with adjacent circular openings for seating the two balls and openings communicating with a bottom of the lower portion. The two openings on the upper portion side skirt are aligned with oppositely positioned openings in a side of the lower housing. A secondary shelf is located in the lower housing below each of the two circular openings contiguous with the side openings. A lower end of the lower housing portion is attached to a conduit.

Abstract: A fuel tank venting system includes a fuel cap, a vent diaphragm and a vent disc. A valve cavity with a substantially concave bottom is formed in a bottom of the fuel cap. At least one air passage is formed through the vent disc. A substantially convex surface is formed on a top of the diaphragm projection. The vent diaphragm is retained between the substantially concave bottom and the substantially convex surface. When air is needed for fuel flow, a vacuum within the fuel tank pulls the perimeter of the vent diaphragm downward, which breaks a seal with the substantially concave bottom to allow air flow. In a second embodiment, the fuel tank venting system is contained in a wall of the fuel tank. In a third embodiment, the fuel tank venting system is contained in a fuel vent body, which is attached to the fuel tank.

Abstract: A Vacuum Relief Assembly for I.C. Engine Intakes is disclosed. Also disclosed is a device that permits outside air into the intake tract of an internal combustion engine in the event of an excessively high vacuum condition within the intake tract. Furthermore, the device is constructed from durable materials and resists the excessive temperatures found in the engine compartment of a vehicle. Still further, the device is made from two half-cylindrical sections that mate to one another around the intake tract to form a cylindrical attachment. The method of installation enables the device to be installable onto the intake tract in situ, and without the need to cut out a section of the tract.

Abstract: A device for adjusting the degree of vacuum in an apparatus for collecting substances by suction, comprising a valve that is provided with an air flow port connected to the atmosphere at one end and to a chamber at the other end, the chamber being connected to a source of vacuum and to the apparatus, and the port comprising a flow control element that is adapted to be attracted into the closed position by the action of a permanent magnet supported in the body of the valve in an adjustable position.

Abstract: A low cost suction regulator is disclosed in conjunction with a fluid drainage system that includes a suction chamber and a collection chamber. The suction regulator is comprised of an atmospheric chamber and a suction chamber separated by a divider. An opening in the divider has a variably biased closing member associated therewith for opening or closing the opening according to operator selected pressure differentials between the chambers. The closing member is movable along an axis that differs from the direction of airflow, thus eliminating the need for damping the forces applied to the closing member. The dividing means and its closing member will operate over the full range of angles from the vertical to horizontal axis. One embodiment of the drainage system further includes devices for measuring patient airflow, patient negativity and imposed suction.

Abstract: A fuel tank venting system includes a fuel cap, a vent diaphragm and a vent disc. A valve cavity with a substantially concave bottom is formed in a bottom of the fuel cap. The vent disc preferably includes a disc flange and a diaphragm projection. At least one air passage is formed through the vent disc. A substantially convex surface is formed on a top of the diaphragm projection. The vent diaphragm is retained between the substantially concave bottom and the substantially convex surface. When air is needed for fuel flow, a vacuum within the fuel tank pulls the perimeter of the vent diaphragm downward, which breaks a seal with the substantially concave bottom. Air flows around the unsealed perimeter of the vent diaphragm through the at least one air passage. In a second embodiment, the fuel tank venting system is contained in a wall of the fuel tank.

Abstract: A protective metal housing is disclosed for an air admittance valve having a head and a hollow stem adapted for coupling to a sewer vent pipe. The housing comprises a cylindrical adaptor having a through passage internally configured for connection at one end to the sewer vent pipe, and for connection at an opposite end to the stem of the valve. A cover is structured and dimensioned to coact with the adaptor in defining an enclosed chamber for containing the head of the valve. The cover is removably secured to the adaptor and has inlet openings arranged to admit ambient air into the enclosed chamber.

Abstract: A metering valve for metering dry powder material such as cement. The interior of the valve housing is expanded outward beginning at the sealing surface or lip located adjacent to the inlet opening, thereby forming an enlarged gap between the valve sleeve and housing to discourage powder accumulation in the gap and interference of large bulk particles and foreign materials with the sleeve and housing. An eccentric intermediate sleeve aligns the valve sleeve relative to the housing prior to rotation of the valve sleeve by either moving the valve sleeve away from or toward the valve inlet. The valve sleeve has a rubberized layer to seal with the housing's sealing surface or lip. A sleeve shield blocks entry of powder into the mouths of the vacuum breakers to prevent plugging of the vacuum breakers. Ball bearings are employed to suspend the valve sleeve within the housing, making the valve sleeve easier to rotate.

Abstract: A vacuum release valve and method are defined. The valve 10, 100, 200 is positioned on a line L between a pool suction inlet I and a pump PU for pumping pool liquid from the inlet and along the line L. The valve 10, 100, 200 includes a valve member 24, 108, 214 that is urged by the pump into a sealing position during normal pumping of pool liquid from the inlet to the pump, so that pool liquid does not flow across the valve. When a predetermined level of vacuum is induced in the line, the valve member is moved out of the sealing position by the vacuum so that a fluid is allowed to flow through the valve to release the vacuum.

Abstract: A protective metal housing is disclosed for an air admittance valve having a head and a hollow stem adapted for coupling to a sewer vent pipe. The housing comprises a cylindrical adaptor having a through passage internally configured for connection at one end to the sewer vent pipe, and for connection at an opposite end to the stem of the valve. A cover is structured and dimensioned to coact with the adaptor in defining an enclosed chamber for containing the head of the valve. The cover is removably secured to the adaptor and has inlet openings arranged to admit ambient air into the enclosed chamber.

Abstract: A flushing system and method are provided for substantially reducing sewer solid accumulation in urban drainage systems such that their performance is optimized, their structural integrity is substantially maintained, and pollution of receiving waters is substantially minimized. The flushing system includes at least one flush reservoir that fluidly communicates with the urban drainage system and discharges wet weather flow to flush accumulated sewer solids therefrom. An air release valve on the at least one flush reservoir closes when it is substantially full to create a vacuum that is broken by drawing air through an air intake conduit in the at least one flush reservoir when the urban drainage system is drained to a predetermined level.

Abstract: An improved water closet flushing system utilizing a diaphragm flush valve having a fluid flow control means positioned to receive the fluid discharged from the diaphragm flush valve prior to fluid entering the water closet bowl.

Abstract: A combined vacuum relief and pressure containing valve assembly for relieving vacuum developing within an associated vessel and for containing elevated pressures developing within the vessel. The valve assembly has a housing having two communicating passageways demarcated by a valve seat. The first passageway communicates to the open atmosphere and also with the valve from below the valve seat. The valve is a ball constrained to move only vertically above its seat. The second passageway communicates with the valve from above the valve seat. The second passageway extends below the valve so that when the valve assembly is connected to the associated vessel, pressures prevailing within the vessel act on the valve from above. Therefore, vacuum prevailing within the vessel, acting in concert with relatively higher ambient temperatures, will draw the valve into the open position. At zero pressure differential, gravity urges the valve into the closed position and maintains a seal.

Abstract: The invention relates to a valve for admitting atmospheric air into the waste pipe system in response to pressure reduction in the system for protecting the water traps in the system and to prevent atmospheric discharge of contaminated air from the waste pipe system. The valve consists of a valve body having at least two air inlet openings in communication with the atmospheric air, each of the openings alternating with a passage towards the waste pipe system, the openings and passages being equally distributed within the valve housing viewed in horizontal cross-section about the valve seat level. The valve member resting, in a normal closed position, on the valve seat separating the openings from the passages and having a substantially butterfly shaped sealing surface for a valve embodiment having two diametrically opposed openings situated perpendicular respectively to two diametrically opposed passages.

Abstract: A one directional flow valve assembly for a fluid system. The valve assembly is comprised of a valve body having an internal valve chamber in communication with the ambient environment with a valve seat of a predetermined configuration. The assembly further has a cap structure with means to position and align a sealing membrane with respect to the valve seat. A flexible elastomeric sealing diaphragm is provided which is under tension when the diaphragm is in a sealing configuration. A carrier plate structure may be provided to position the sealing diaphragm. The sealing member is in tension adjacent to the sealing seat when in a sealing position.

Abstract: A pressure relief valve is disclosed for use in air intake tracts of I.C. engine installations. The air valve includes a tubular member having apertures therein covered over by resilient diaphragm elements that, when a negative pressure (vacuum) within the system exceeds a pre-determined level, deflect and enable relief of the negative pressure within the air intake. When the negative pressure returns to normal operating levels, the diaphragm returns to position. The negative pressure within the intake tract can be raised, for example, by an obstruction at the air inlet of the tract.

Abstract: Device for preventing permanent entrapment that includes a hollow cylindrical body for installation in a suction line. A cylindrical chamber contained in body. A hollow entrappee member with grooves. Chamber contains entrappee member with sealing member, which moves through chamber. A guide cover member wherein a shaft has locking groove and move entrappee member. A spring acting against guide cover, connected to shaft by an adjustable collar. Require locking member to be reset from locking groove. Allowing entrappee member to move back to open position.

Abstract: A vent valve includes a main valve having a valve chamber provided therein with an inside annular valve seat and an outside annular valve seat, a valve body normally seated on the seats under its own weight and opened by atmospheric pressure in response to negative pressure, a water collecting groove formed outward of the outside annular valve seat, a connecting cylindrical part provided at a position deviating from an axis of the valve chamber for communicating with the valve chamber, and a communicating flow path formed along the axial direction of the valve chamber for allowing communication between the water collecting groove and an interior of the connecting cylindrical part.

Abstract: A method for preventing an obstruction from being trapped by suction to an inlet of a pool filter pump system, and a lint trap cover therefor. The cover is for installation on a lint trap unit located upstream of a pool filter pump, and is configured to vent air into the lint trap unit when a vacuum level within the unit exceeds a specified vacuum limit, as is the case if the drain or another inlet connected to the lint trap unit is partially or completely obstructed, such as by a child or foreign object. The rapid influx of air eliminates the vacuum within the pump and suction lines and, therefore, the resulting unsafe condition. The lint trap cover preferably has a damped mode of operation so that the pump system does not recover before the obstruction is removed. The cover can be manufactured as original equipment for the lint trap unit, or an existing cover can be modified to include the components required for venting the lint trap unit without requiring any modifications to the remaining pump system.

Abstract: A combined vacuum relief and pressure containing valve assembly for relieving vacuum developing within an associated vessel and for containing elevated pressures developing within the vessel. The valve assembly has a housing having two communicating passageways demarcated by a valve seat. The first passageway communicates to the open atmosphere and also with the valve from below the valve seat. The valve is a ball constrained to move only vertically above its seat. The second passageway communicates with the valve from above the valve seat. The second passageway extends below the valve so that when the valve assembly is connected to the associated vessel, pressures prevailing within the vessel act on the valve from above. Therefore, vacuum prevailing within the vessel, acting in concert with relatively higher ambient temperatures, will draw the valve into the open position. At zero pressure differential, gravity urges the valve into the closed position and maintains a seal.

Abstract: A plastic sewage holding tank in a boat, associated with a toilet, includes a vent check valve for providing vacuum relief. By mounting the vent check valve in the top of the tank, when the tank is being emptied by rapid pumpout implosion or other damage to the tank is prevented. The vent check valve may include a valve body with an interior surface mounting a quad sealing ring, with a valve element guided for reciprocal movement between a sealing position where an axially elongated substantially cylindrical peripheral surface of the valve element engages the quad ring, to an open position where the valve element is moved against spring bias away from the valve body. A spider, with a collar for guiding a shaft portion of the valve element, may mount a coil spring to provide a biasing action.

Abstract: The present invention provides multi-layer microfluidic systems, by providing additional substrate layers, e.g., third, fourth, fifth and more substrate layers, mated with the typically described first and second layers. Microfabricated elements, e.g., grooves, wells and the like, are manufactured into the surfaces between the various substrate layers. These microfabricated elements define the various microfluidic aspects or structures of the overall device, e.g., channels, chambers and the like. In preferred aspects, a separate microscale channel network is provided between each of the substrate layers.

Abstract: A sealing device for a vacuum air opening (10) of a dust bag or other dust collecting container (5) for a vacuum cleaner, has an elastic membrane (1) deflected and centrally fixed in a vacuum air opening tube (4) by means of a fixing element (2). Deflection of the flexible membrane (1) produces forces acting upon a partspherical surface (7) of the vacuum air opening tube (4), sufficient enough to ensure tight sealing of the vacuum air opening (10) and preventing any spillage of dust through the opening (10). The elastic membrane (1) is protected by a dome (3) with an opening (6) for vacuum air flow. Alternatively the membrane (1) may be mounted on a stem element (9) extending from the dome (3).

Abstract: A hermetic package for fine particulate material. The package is arranged to be filled and vacuumized to hold the fine particulate material therein and isolated from the ambient atmosphere. The package, which may be in the form of a pouch or a gussetted packages, is formed of a flexible material to have at least a front and a rear panel. At least one degassing valve is mounted in at least one of the panels to enable gas within the interior of the package to vent to the ambient atmosphere. A filter sheet, e.g., a spun-bonded plastic, such as Tyvek.RTM., is secured to the interior of the package over the valve to prevent the fine particulate material within the package from entering into the valve and clogging it. The filter sheet may cover only a small portion of one of the panels of the package or may cover a major portion of that panel, or even cover substantially the entire interior of the package. The package includes a top portion forming a mouth, which is arranged to be opened, e.g.

Abstract: A plastic sewage holding tank in a boat, associated with a toilet, includes a vent check valve assembly for providing vacuum relief. By mounting the vent check valve in the top of the tank, when the tank is being emptied by rapid pumpout implosion or other damage to the tank is prevented. The vent check valve assembly may include a valve body surface operatively connected to the tank and having a plurality of openings formed in it, and a flexible material diaphragm covering the openings adjacent the inside of the tank, and uncovering openings to allow air flow through the openings substantially only when a vacuum condition exists inside the tank. A plastic disk biases the diaphragm into its opening-covering position, but a partial vacuum of at least about 2-5 inches of water allows air to flow through the openings past the diaphragm.

Abstract: A valve, which opens upon a not permissible underpressure in a cooking utensil and upon a manual operation and which is stored in the lid of the cooking utensil suffices, without a valve spring and with a minimum of structural parts, when its flexible valve plate consists in one piece of a pressure part for manual operation and a seal collar, for abutment on a valve seat, and a connecting corpus therebetween. The seal collar is swivelled upon an overload on a swivel edge of the valve member and disengages from the abutment on the valve seat thus opening the valve.

Abstract: An air intake device has a base seat, a hollow main body disposed on the base seat, and a hollow cover seat disposed on the hollow main body. An intake guide pipe is connected to the connection pipe. A plurality of L-shaped plates are disposed in the hollow cover seat. An upper magnet is disposed in the hollow cover seat. A lower magnet is disposed in the hollow main body. The lower magnet has a taper lower portion. The hollow main body has an upper interior, an inner thread, a lower interior, a lower groove, and an upper groove. A hollow adjustment screw is inserted in the hollow main body. The hollow adjustment screw has a center hole and an annular recess receiving a seal ring. The base seat receives an air cleaner.

Abstract: A valve designed to bleed air in to the suction line of a pool when the suction pressure exceeds a predetermined value. The valve is housed in a four port fixture in which the ports are designated as the first, second, third and forth ports. Each port has a central axis with all the central axes lying in a single plane. The central axes of the first and third port lie on a first straight line and the axes of the second and forth port lie on a second straight line. The first and second line cross one another orthogonally which places the first and third ports opposite one another and the second and forth port opposite one another. The second and forth ports each contain an individual moveable element which has a first and a second position. In the first position the moveable element blocks the port. In the second position the port is opened and will admit air into the valve.

Abstract: An air valve that comprises a concave, downwardly facing cover (4) which is carried by a pipe connector (1) connected generally coaxially thereto, wherein the upper edge-part of the pipe connector (1) is surrounded by the wall of the cover (4), a ring-shaped, upwardly facing first seat ridge (8) which is carried by and sealingly connected to the cover wall (5), a second ring-shaped seat ring (2) which is generally coaxial with the cover wall (5) and is carried by and sealingly connected to the upper end-part of the pipe connector (1), and a valve plate (11) which is vertically movable in the cover (4) and which carries an annular, rubber-elastic valve washer (20) that can rest sealingly on the first and the second seat ridges (8, 2) so as to bridge an annular air through-gap between the seat ridges. Both main surfaces of the valve washer (20) have a surface roughness which is adapted to substantially avoid strain in the outer layers of said main surfaces.

Abstract: A venting device intended for connection to a horizontal sanitary vent pipe, in which vacuum pressure excursions occur providing a need for the introduction of air from the outside of the pipe automatically by way of the device without allowing a reverse flow of the evil air from inside the pipe when pressure within is equalized or risen. The device has three adjacent ends. A first end comprises a cap forming tubular chamber integrally housing therein a suitable valve sealing means substantially covering an air inlet means situated within the chamber. The sealing means is securely closed at equilibrium and against high pressure, whilst automatically opening a vacuum within the pipe to admit air. The first end is adjacent a lower tubular body portion having a second and third end. The second end forms a suitable means for affixing the device to a horizontal vent pipe; whereas the third end terminates to an opening which may normally be closed by way of a removable repeatable access fitting.

Abstract: A vacuum limiter valve assembly has a valve body screwed into an opening on a cargo tank. It has a relatively soft elastomeric, lightly spring-loaded seal closing the passageway through the valve body between the tank interior and the surrounding environment outside the tank. The relatively small area of the seal which would otherwise be exposed to tank cargo or vapors therefrom, is protected by a shield of material which is relatively inert and unaffected by most known chemicals, but also capable of a sealing function. The shield does not interfere with the normal sealing function, nor does it interfere with the opening of the vacuum limiter valve when needed to avoid development of excessive vacuum in the tank.

Abstract: A pressure/vacuum vent of the present invention is mountable to the vent pipe of a storage tank. The vent includes a valve housing having a wall defining a chamber which is in fluid communication with said storage tank. It includes a first valve responsive to an over-pressure condition of a first pressure, a second valve responsive to an over-pressure condition at a second pressure; and a third valve responsive to an under-pressure condition. The first and second pressures are different so that one valve will open at a small pressure and the other will open at a larger pressure. The first valve is a poppet valve, and the second and third valves are diaphragm valves. The valve housing is contained in a vent housing. The vent housing includes a floor through with a bottom stem of the valve housing extends and which has drain holes. A cover is mounted to a top portion of the valve housing to cover the vent housing. The cover is spaced from a top of the vent housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a valve system for a space (1) which is under vacuum in relation to its surroundings (3), which valve system comprises a valve unit (7) which is intended to be arranged in association with a wall (2) which delimits the said space and has a wall opening (4) through the said wall, which valve unit comprises a valve (8) which is normally shut and closes the said wall opening but is arranged to be opened and allow air from the surroundings into the said space if the vacuum, i.e.

Abstract: An air-ventilating valve is adapted to allow the ambient atmosphere to enter a conduit when the ambient pressure exceeds the pressure of gas in the conduit by a essentially predetermined amount, and which also blocks the release of gas from the conduit to the ambient atmosphere. The valve includes two generally coaxial upstanding valve seat projections (6, 7) which lie essentially in a mutually common plane, and a vertically movable valve body (20) which includes a ring-shaped sealing element (4) which bridges an annular gap (5) between the upstanding projections (6, 7) when the valve is closed and sealingly abuts respective sealing projections (6; 7). The valve body (20) is adapted to move to a valve closed position under the influence of gravity. At least one upstanding projection (6, 7) is formed by two radially separated ridges (31, 32) which define an annular trough (33) therebetween. The ridges (31, 32) are both intended to lie essentially tangential to the sealing element (4) when the valve is closed.

Abstract: An electromagnetic control valve having a coil housing and a valve housing provided with a connector for inlet into the valve housing of a medium whose pressure is to be controlled. The valve housing has a chamber connected to ambient atmosphere and a pressure valve controlling communication between the chamber and the medium introduced into the valve housing. A by-pass channel is connected to ambient atmosphere, and a suction valve controls communication between the by-pass channel and the medium introduced into the valve housing. The pressure valve comprises a valve plate facing a valve seat in the valve housing for selectively opening and closing an opening in the valve seat to respectively connect and disconnect the medium introduced into the valve housing from the chamber. The valve plate is slidably supported by a basket and is biassed by a spring against stops provided on the basket.

Abstract: A vacuum breaker vent valve is disclosed along with a coupler device and the packaging designed to enclose the valve and the coupler device. As packaged, the valve stem is received within the coupler device and the packaging, in two halves, is fastened above and below the valve and coupler device to enclose them. In use, the coupler device is inverted and attached to a sanitary system pipe and the valve is coupled on the coupler device. The packaging halves are assembled over the valve to provide protection.

Abstract: A vacuum release valve for use in a refrigerated compartment such as a domestic refrigerator which allows a small amount of outside air to enter the refrigerated compartment to prevent a vacuum from forming in the refrigerated compartment caused by warm air entering the compartment during door access into the compartment and then contracting by being cooled. The vacuum release valve includes a tubular valve body which penetrates through a floor of the compartment and a cap which is loosely captured to an end of the tubular body and which normally closes the tubular body but which can be lifted from the tubular body by a vacuum formed within the compartment.

Abstract: A suction relief apparatus for relieving suction at a suction connection of a swimming pool or spa having a main valve member movable from an open to a closed position to relieve suction at the suction connection in the event of a blockage of the suction connection in the pool. The main valve remains closed until a reset valve is opened, at which time a spring returns the main valve to the open condition, enabling suction to resume at the suction connection of the pool. A switch responsive to increased suction indicative of an obstruction may be utilized to deactivate a suction pump motor. In an alternative embodiment, a frangible member may replace the main valve and reset valves to open a connection to ambient air atmosphere in the event of increased suction in the suction line resulting from an obstruction at the suction connection in the pool.

Abstract: A reflux valve means for a fluid conduit (30) having a fluid outflow end, wherein the valve means includes a vacuum valve (10) intended for connection to a conduit branch (18) preferably to a top part or rising gradient of the conduit upstream of its outlet end. The valve (10) includes a valve housing (15, 16) provided with a passageway (20, 17, 19) which establishes communication between the atmosphere surrounding the valve and the conduit branch (18). The passageway includes a valve seat (12) and a valve plate (11) which can be moved into and out of sealing contact with the seat (12) under the influence of conduit pressure that is higher than atmospheric pressure. The valve plate (11) of the vacuum valve is constructed to be deformable elastically into and out of a generally dish shape when the valve is closed, under the influence of those pressure variations that normally occur in the fluid in the conduit branch.

Abstract: Apparatus for extracting fluent material from a container, for example to remove oil or toxic fluid from a submerged or sunken container, e.g., a tank in a sunken ship, has a device for locating (29) and securing (21, 27) the apparatus against a wall of such a container, a device for forming an aperture in the wall (15, 17), a device for extracting the fluid through the aperture, and a closure device for the aperture. Preferably the apparatus has two parts, a first upper module (1) comprising a driving device and a drilling or milling device (17) for making an aperture in the wall, and a second lower module (4), comprising the closure device (12) operable mechanically or hydraulically by the first module. The first and second modules are releasably connected together and can be separated under control of the first module. The apparatus is moved into position by thruster drive units (29) and may be guided remotely from a remote monitor connected to a video camera mounted on the apparatus.

Abstract: An air/vacuum valve throttling device capable of use with an air/vacuum valve in a piping installation is provided. The throttling device has a body with an interior and a number of ports. A vent/admit port connectable to the air/vacuum valve is provided. An outlet port and an air inlet port are also located in the body. A shaft extends from outside the body into the interior and has a plug connected to an end of the shaft so that the plug is located within the interior of the body. The shaft and plug are constructed and arranged to extend into the outlet port. The plug position is adjustable. A rod is also provided having a plug at one end extending into the interior and a retainer at another end outside the interior. A bushing in the air inlet port having an opening to allow the rod to pass therethrough, and a spring is used for resiliently centering the rod in the air inlet port.

Abstract: A Venturi vent valve is disclosed suitable for relieving pressure differentials in sewer systems and preventing the escape of odorous gases. The valve consists of a flared tube containing a conical valve so that the annulus forms a Venturi chamber. The conical valve is mounted axially on a rod that engages in bushes attached to the tubular body and an annular base plate and constrains the valve to move axially. The conical valve rests on a rubber washer secured and sealed to the tubular body by the base plate and prevents the escape of fluids by its own weight. The conical valve lifts off the rubber washer to admit a flow of air when the pressure in the sewer system is less than ambient and the valve opening is maintained by the pressure differential, the venturi effect and the viscous forces acting on the conical valve.

Abstract: A method and device are provided for preventing a child or an object from being trapped by suction to a drain of a swimming pool filter pump system. The invention entails a safety valve capable of causing the filter pump to immediately lose its prime when a child or object becomes trapped against the drain of a swimming pool, so that the vacuum created by the filter pump is completely eliminated. The valve of this invention can be mounted directly to a suction line fluidically interconnecting the drain and the filter pump, and is constructed to permit air to rapidly flow into the suction line if a predetermined vacuum level is exceeded within the suction line, as is the case if the drain becomes partially or completely obstructed. The influx of air causes the filter pump to rapidly lose its prime, thereby completely eliminating the vacuum and the resulting hazardous condition.

Abstract: An air admittance valve device is disclosed for enabling valve sealing member to remain securely closed against high pressure in a pipe or duct produced from: equipment connected to said pipe or duct e.g. a hydraulic pipeline flusher device; fluid movement within, or as otherwise introduced to system of pipe or duct while further remaining tightly closed at normal atmospheric pressure (equilibrium) and equalizing pressure excursions that are below atmospheric pressure occurring within sanitary drainage pipes or room ventilation ducts by admitting air to said pipe or duct.