With Indicator, Register, Recorder, Alarm Or Inspection Means Patents (Class 137/551)
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Publication number: 20110005619Abstract: To provide a water faucet device capable of easy grasp of setting states, without enlarging the size of the display portion. The present invention is a water faucet device (1) furnished with a flow setting function or temperature setting function; whereby the water faucet device has an operating portion (6) for controlling the water faucet device; a spout portion (2) forming a water discharge port; a light injecting portion (42), disposed at the base of the spout portion or the operating portion so as to be adjacent to the attaching surface at which the spout portion or the control portion are attached, for shining light onto the attaching surface; and display means (26) for displaying flow setting values or temperature setting values by varying the illumination range (46) formed on the attaching surface by the light illuminated from the light injecting portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2010Publication date: January 13, 2011Applicant: TOTO LTD.Inventors: Hiroshi KANEMARU, Kenichi AOYAGI, Masato YAMAHIGASHI, Masateru MIYAZAKI, Tsuyoshi MIURA
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Publication number: 20110000559Abstract: A water discharge system capable of preventing a mistaken detection to surely perform the stop of water discharge or continue the start of water discharge is provided. The water discharge system includes: a water discharge unit; a sensor unit configured to obtain information about an object to be detected through a reflected wave of a radiated radio wave; a control unit configured to control the start of water discharge from the water discharge unit based on a detective signal from the sensor unit; and a storage mechanics.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2008Publication date: January 6, 2011Applicant: TOTO LTD.Inventors: Kensuke Murata, Masayuki Nagaishi, Katsuhisa Tsuchiya, Shoichi Tsuiki, Masami Tsujita, Hiroshi Tsuboi
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Publication number: 20100326546Abstract: The invention relates to a device for metering a liquid reducing agent into an exhaust gas system. The device can be used, in particular, for reducing nitrogen oxides in an exhaust gas. The device includes at least one working container for holding a working quantity of the liquid reducing agent. In addition, the device is provided with at least one metering module, at least one delivery line, and at least one delivery pump. The device also has at least one storage container for holding a storage quantity of the liquid reducing age, preferably a storage quantity that exceeds the working quantity. The storage container is connected to the working container via at least one storage line. The storage line has at least one storage pump disposed therein for circulating liquid reducing agent from the storage container to the working container.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2007Publication date: December 30, 2010Inventors: Rainer Haeberer, Matthias Horn, Michael Krause
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Publication number: 20100313973Abstract: A device for estimating a stream of urine entering a toilet or urinal includes a measuring unit configured to estimate an amount of the stream of urine, and an indicator to provide an indication to an individual of the amount of the stream of urine.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2010Publication date: December 16, 2010Inventors: Ernest W. Grumbles, Timothy A. Bachman, John W. Ahern
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Publication number: 20100307613Abstract: The invention relates to a device for blocking and releasing a fluid flow having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. A main opening is disposed between the inlet and the outlet and associated with a main blocking element that can seal off the main opening. An actuation device can move the main blocking element from the open position to the closed position, and the main blocking element is disposed in the closed position such that an increased fluid pressure at the fluid inlet relative to the fluid outlet brings about a press force holding the main blocking element in the closed position. A fluid overflow path is provided between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet that can be sealed off by the actuation device. The main blocking element can be released by the actuation device and the fluid overflow path can be opened by the actuation device.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2008Publication date: December 9, 2010Applicant: ELSTER GMBHInventors: Guido Temme, August Wallmeyer
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Publication number: 20100300557Abstract: A system and method for measuring aeration of a liquid in a liquid channel operates by sending an ultrasonic wave into a liquid channel, receiving a signal corresponding to the echo from the liquid channel and calculating a level of aeration of the liquid in the liquid channel based on the reflected signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2009Publication date: December 2, 2010Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Dong Fei, Mohamed I. Daoud
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Publication number: 20100294383Abstract: The invention relates to a monitoring system and method for accumulator banks including at least two pressure accumulators, the accumulator bank is coupled to a device and being adapted to provide a pressurized fluid into the device at pressure reductions in said device. The monitoring system comprises at least one sensor for detecting a chosen parameter in the accumulator bank at chosen intervals of time, and a recording unit for recoding the sampled measured parameters, a storage device for storing predetermined characteristic information related to the pressure development in the accumulator bank during pressure reductions at the device and representing different numbers of active accumulators in the accumulator bank, and calculation means for comparing the recorded measured parameters with the stored characteristic information, and determining from this comparison the number of active accumulators in the accumulator bank.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2007Publication date: November 25, 2010Applicant: AKER SUBSEA ASInventors: Hallgeir Melbo, Klas Goran Erikson, Kristin Falk
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Publication number: 20100282343Abstract: A water supply device for showers and the like is provided. The device allows an eased adjustment of the water temperature and an effective prevention of the formation of bacterial colonies, specifically of legionella, and to this purpose it comprises: a branched line, downstream said adjustment means of the water flow, connecting the water supply device and a drain to each other through a dedicated line; means for deviating the water flow at said branched line, apt to deviate the water flow towards either the rose or the drain; and temperature detection means, placed between said adjustment means and said branched line or on said dedicated line, connected to temperature display means.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2007Publication date: November 11, 2010Applicant: SIMONESCHI S.R.L.Inventor: Sergio Simoneschi
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Patent number: 7828011Abstract: A pneumatic safety valve prevents dangerously rapid outflow of pressurized air in the event that an air hose ruptures or a pneumatic tool is accidentally decoupled from the hose downstream of the valve. The valve has an internal air conduit in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet ports. The air conduit cooperates with a pivotal flap that selectively closes to prevent a sudden discharge of air in the event of a hose rupture or an accidental decoupling of the pneumatic tool from the hose. By containing the highly pressurized air and preventing the air from rapid discharge, the valve prevents the air hose from flailing or whipping violently, thus eliminating the physical dangers to operators and other personnel in the vicinity of the rupture. This simple and inexpensive valve ensures safe containment of hose ruptures or of accidental disconnections of the pneumatic tool from the high-pressure hose.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2007Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Inventor: Wilfred Huet
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Patent number: 7828012Abstract: A valve body defines a fluid passage and a valve sealing body is positioned there. The valve sealing body is operable between open and closed positions which allow for fluid-flow and non-flow, respectively. The valve stem has a free end and an engagement end where the engagement end engages the valve sealing body so that rotation of the valve stem operates the valve sealing body between the open and closed positions. A measurement passage is defined through the valve stem from the free end to the engagement end. The measurement passage is in fluid communication with the fluid passage when the valve sealing body is in the open position, and at least one sealing member is positioned within the measurement passage.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2007Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Mark C. Hegberg, Amjed Shafique, Prasert Buranatum, Chalard Bunluaphob
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Patent number: 7823601Abstract: To provide a drain trap which can simplify maintenance operations by allowing effluent to flow to a discharge unit properly. The drain trap has a main body equipped with a communicating path which communicates a receiving unit and a discharge unit; a storage unit which, being installed in the communicating path, stores effluent received by the receiving unit; and a normally-closed check valve which, being installed in the communicating path, floats up to allow the effluent in the storage unit to flow to the discharge unit when the effluent reaches or exceeds a set amount, in which the storage unit is installed in such a way as to communicate with a part right under the normally-closed check valve, and the discharge unit is installed in the lowest part of a discharge-side communicating path so that no effluent will be stored in the discharge-side communicating path, which is that part of the communicating path which runs between the normally-closed check valve and the discharge unit.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2005Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Kondoh-FRP Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shingo Nishimoto, Taro Kondoh
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Publication number: 20100252127Abstract: A dripper unit comprising a base section and a perforated cap attached thereto; the base section for attaching to an irrigation pipe through which water flows, and having a conduit of a first diameter therein, such that some of the water flowing through the pipe flows into the conduit within the base section; the cap for regulating water flow out from the dripper unit, wherein the cap is characterized by having a plurality of apertures there through, each aperture having a different throughput, such that rotation of the perforated cap with respect to the base section brings a selected aperture from said plurality of apertures into alignment with the conduit, thereby regulating flow out of the dripper unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 12, 2008Publication date: October 7, 2010Inventor: Itai Gross
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Patent number: 7806132Abstract: A method and device is provided for tapping an existing primary pipeline (e.g., a water supply line) without cutting the existing primary pipeline. A secondary supply line may be installed by coupling the device to a valve of the existing pipeline. In various implementations, the device may have a single port serving as both an input (i.e., an inlet) and an output (i.e., an outlet). Among other advantages, the invention may be used to avoid costly procedures of cutting supply lines, to prevent water spillage, to integrate with existing alarm and home improvement systems, and to communicate wirelessly with utility companies for billing purposes.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2007Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: Tippmann Sports, LLCInventor: Theodore G. Paraskevakos
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Publication number: 20100243070Abstract: The invention relates to a device for lubrication of a work vehicle, which device includes: a tank (1) for storage of lubricant; a number of delivery points (8a-g) at which lubricant is supplied to the tools of the work vehicle or other parts that need to be lubricated; a distribution block (5) including a number of branching points (6a-g) that all are connected to a delivery point (8a-g); a pump (2) for delivering lubricant from the tank (1) to the distribution block (5) and further on to the delivery points (8a-g); a control system (3), for regulating the supply of lubricant.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2008Publication date: September 30, 2010Applicant: ATLAS COPCO ROCK DRILLS ABInventors: Ulrik Algulin, Christer Andersson
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Publication number: 20100243062Abstract: A motor operated valve diagnostic data acquisition system including: a motor operated valve assembly; a transmitter, the transmitter being permanently connected in a housing of a motor operated valve assembly; a receiver, the transmitter transmitting signals to the receiver via motor operated valve cables, the cables being existing motor operated valve cables; and electronic circuitry connected to the receiver, the electronic circuitry processing the signals received by the receiver.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2010Publication date: September 30, 2010Applicant: AREVA NP Inc.Inventors: Vedat T. Ataman, Lew McKeague
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Publication number: 20100236480Abstract: A raw material gas supply system (6) supplies a raw material gas to a gas use system (2) kept in a reduced pressure atmosphere. The system includes: a raw material tank (40) for storing a liquid raw material or a solid raw material; a raw material conduit (46) connected at one end to the raw material tank and connected at the other end to the gas use system; a carrier gas supply mechanism (54), connected to the raw material tank, for supplying a carrier gas into the raw material tank while controlling the flow rate of the gas; on-off valves (48, 50) interposed in the raw material conduit; a heater (64) for heating the raw material conduit and the on-off valves; and a temperature control device (92) for controlling the heater, wherein the raw material conduit and the on-off valves are each formed of a metal material having good thermal conductivity.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 22, 2008Publication date: September 23, 2010Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITEDInventors: Masamichi Hara, Atsushi Gomi, Shinji Maekawa, Kaoru Yamamoto, Satoshi Taga
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Publication number: 20100236646Abstract: A body section having a main channel through which a fluid to be measured flows and sections for shunting the fluid to be measured from the main channel, and a fluid measuring section provided removably from the body section and measuring the flow rate of the fluid to be measured flowing through the main channel based on the detection results of the fluid to be measured introduced from the shunting section. The fluid measuring section is fixed to the body section and shunt ratio data, i.e. the adjustment data about measurement processing inherent to the constitution of the body section, is registered in the fluid measuring section before adjusting measurement processing.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2008Publication date: September 23, 2010Applicant: YAMATAKE CORPORATIONInventors: Masanori Anzai, Junichi Matsuda, Manabu Muraoka
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Patent number: 7798168Abstract: Apparatus and method for dispensing a gas using a gas source coupled in selective flow relationship with a gas manifold. The gas manifold includes flow circuitry for discharging gas to a gas-using zone, and the gas source includes a pressure-regulated gas source vessel containing the gas at superatmospheric pressure. The pressure-regulated gas source vessel can be arranged with a pressure regulator at or within the vessel and a flow control valve coupled in flow relationship to the vessel, so that gas dispensed from the vessel flows through the regulator prior to flow through the flow control valve, and into the gas manifold. The apparatus and method permit an enhancement of the safety of storage and dispensing of toxic or otherwise hazardous gases used in semiconductor processes.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2009Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.Inventors: W. Karl Olander, Matthew B. Donatucci, Luping Wang, Michael J. Wodjenski
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Publication number: 20100229973Abstract: A level detection device for detecting an upper surface of a liquid at a reference level. The device includes a reservoir having a bottom wall and one or more side walls that delimit a cavity for containing the liquid; a light emitter for emitting a light beam towards this cavity; at least one reflection surface for reflecting the light beam; and a light detector for detecting the emitted light beam upon reflection. The emitter and detector are so arranged that, when the surface of the liquid passes the reference level, a state of detection of the light beam by the detector is changed. The emitter, detector and reflection surface(s) are so located and oriented relative to the cavity that the emitted light beam is: detectable by the detector upon travelling through the liquid in the cavity; and refractable at the surface of the liquid towards or away from the detector so that the state of detection is a function of such refraction.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2010Publication date: September 16, 2010Inventors: Markus Lang, Peter Möri, Renzo Moser
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Patent number: 7792659Abstract: A device, such as a heat meter for measurements of hot tap water energy usage, separated from building heating energy usage, in a district heating substation. The device is connected only to sensors attached to the supply pipe and return pipe of the district heating substation. A device, such as a heat meter, has a detector to detect a deviation in the total power (P) usage in the district heating substation which deviation depends on the use of warm tap water.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2006Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Kyab Lulea ABInventor: Kimmo Yliniemi
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Publication number: 20100200089Abstract: A control assembly for use in a feed delivery assembly comprises a housing having an inlet, an outlet, and a chamber between said inlet and outlet. The chamber is opened in a plane parallel, but radially offset from, an axis of the inlet and outlet. A tube member is removably receivable in the chamber. The removable tube member includes a tube having a length sufficient to span a distance between the inlet and outlet tubes. At least one infrared emitter and at least one infrared receiver are mounted on the tube member tube and are positioned to be opposed to each other such that the receiver will receive and detect light from the emitter. The emitter and receiver are operatively connected to a controller. The controller emits a signal when it is determined that the light from the emitter to the receiver is interrupted.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2010Publication date: August 12, 2010Applicant: THE GSI GROUP, LLCInventor: Thomas D. Fleshner
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Publication number: 20100200088Abstract: A microprocessor may include a logic circuit for executing instructions of a data processing application. The microprocessor may have a timer system which includes a clock counter connected to a clock input for receiving a clock signal and counting a number of cycles of the clock signal. A clock comparator may be connected the clock counter and to a timer register in which a timer reference value can be stored. The clock comparator may compare a number of cycles of the clock signal with the timer reference value and generate a timer signal based on the comparison. The timer system may have a timer output for outputting timer signal. The timer system may include a control input for receiving a digital value representing a measured value of a sensed parameter of a device and a control register in which a control reference value can be stored. A control comparator may be connected the control input.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2007Publication date: August 12, 2010Applicant: Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.Inventors: Ray Marshall, Mike Garrard, Jeff Loeliger
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Patent number: 7768414Abstract: A medical gas alarm system for use in a healthcare facility having a medical gas system and having a network of computer devices is provided. The alarm system includes at least one area alarm controller adapted to receive a first signal indicative of a condition of a first portion of the medical gas system. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The alarm system also includes at least one master alarm controller adapted to receive a second signal indicative of a condition of a second portion of the medical gas system. The master alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the master alarm controller through the network.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2006Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Beacon Medical Products LLCInventors: Joseph H. Abel, William C. Bohlinger, Stanton H. Breitlow, Edward W. Catton, Thomas J. Dubisar, James P. Hentges, Richard E. Hoffman, William J. Kaht, Nick D. LaBare, Robert O. Moran, Thomas R. Pfingsten, Phillip B. Plyler, John M. Sharer, John B. Wilker, Sr., Dale T. Wolfe
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Patent number: 7762313Abstract: A coolant sensor doubles as a bleed valve for purging trapped air from a cooling system. The sensor slides into a port placing a sensor element in contact with the coolant. The sensor includes a pair of encircling o-rings for sealing the system from atmosphere in one position and permitting bleeding in a second position. The bleed channel is in the sensor port between the o-rings. The sensor is moved so the innermost o-ring clears the narrow opening into the cooling system. The outermost o-ring maintains a seal to keep the coolant from leaking out of the sensor port. The sensor is held in either position by a horseshoe clip or by a bayonet arrangement, the horseshoe clip arrangement including multiple apertures for each position, the bayonet having a position to provide for safe bleeding of air from the cooling system without completely removing the sensor from its retention port.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2008Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Assignee: Chrysler Group LLCInventor: Eric Darby
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Publication number: 20100179697Abstract: A method and a valve arrangement are provided for electronic wear state determination of the valve arrangement for controlling a process medium flow. A valve element, which is arranged so as to move axially within a valve housing, is moved via electrically drivable linear drive means on the basis of positioning regulation. The valve element has an essentially constant drive force applied to it, and a position speed profile over the switching travel of the valve element is determined by detecting the speed as a function of the current position of the valve element. A change profile is created by comparing the determined speed profile with previous position speed profiles, as a measure of the position-dependent wear state of the valve mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2009Publication date: July 15, 2010Applicant: ABB Technology AGInventors: Andreas Stelter, Urs E. Meier, Detlef Pape
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Publication number: 20100163127Abstract: A sampling apparatus for sampling a fluid from a fluid source includes a first fluid passage device, a second fluid passage device and a fluid by-pass. The first fluid passage device is disposed downstream of and in fluid communication with the fluid source. The second fluid passage device is disposed downstream of and is in fluid communication with the first fluid passage device. The fluid by-pass is disposed downstream of the fluid source and upstream of the second fluid passage device. The fluid by-pass being in fluid communication with and disposed between the fluid source and the second fluid passage device is operative to cause a first portion of the fluid to flow through the first fluid passage device and to cause a second portion of the fluid to by-pass the first fluid passage device and to flow to the second fluid passage device.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2008Publication date: July 1, 2010Applicant: EVAPCO, INC.Inventor: Sarah FERRARI
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Publication number: 20100154903Abstract: A circuit configuration for recording the resistance of a coil of a magnetic valve, having at least one magnetic valve, having at least one valve coil that is to be actuated, a current source for applying a current to the at least one valve coil and generating a voltage drop at the at least one valve coil, and an evaluation circuit for outputting the voltage drop generated at the at least one valve coil as the output signal of the circuit configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2008Publication date: June 24, 2010Inventors: Makrus Schoeneck, Michael Haug, Wolfgang Gscheidle, Markus Deeg, Dieter Woerner
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Publication number: 20100132818Abstract: The invention relates to a thermoelectric-based power generation system designed to be clamped onto the outer wall of a steam pipe or other heating pipe. The system can include a number of assemblies mounted on the sides of a pipe. Each assembly can include a hot block, an array of thermoelectric modules, and a cold block system. The hot block can create a thermal channel to the hot plates of the modules. The cold block can include a heat pipe onto which fins are attached.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2007Publication date: June 3, 2010Inventors: Robert Dell, Chih-Shing Wei, George Sidebotham
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Patent number: 7690395Abstract: A hands-free faucet comprises a proximity sensor, a logical control, a handle, a spout, and a touch control operably coupled to at least one of the spout and the handle.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2006Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Masco Corporation of IndianaInventors: Patrick B. Jonte, Robert W. Rodenbeck, David M. Burke, Garry R. Marty
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Patent number: 7614421Abstract: Apparatus and method for dispensing a gas using a gas source coupled in selective flow relationship with a gas manifold. The gas manifold includes flow circuitry for discharging gas to a gas-using zone, and the gas source includes a pressure-regulated gas source vessel containing the gas at superatmospheric pressure. The pressure-regulated gas source vessel can be arranged with a pressure regulator at or within the vessel and a flow control valve coupled in flow relationship to the vessel, so that gas dispensed from the vessel flows through the regulator prior to flow through the flow control valve, and into the gas manifold. The apparatus and method permit an enhancement of the safety of storage and dispensing of toxic or otherwise hazardous gases used in semiconductor processes.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2006Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Advanced Technology Materials, Inc.Inventors: W. Karl Olander, Matthew B. Donatucci, Luping Wang, Michael J. Wodjenski
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Patent number: 7610931Abstract: A bypass valve includes a body with first and second chambers connected by a bridge passage, an untreated water inlet and an untreated water outlet both open into the first chamber, and a treated water inlet and a treated water outlet both open into the second chamber. A first valve element is rotatably received in the first chamber alternately to connect the inlet to the untreated water outlet or the bridge passage. A second valve element is rotatably received in the second chamber alternately to connect the outlet to the treated water outlet or the bridge passage. A manually operable mechanism rotates the first valve element in the first chamber and the second valve element in the second chamber. A flow sensor is received within either the first or second valve element to measure the amount of water flowing through the bypass valve.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2006Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Inventors: Mark Wittig, Kenneth Sieth, Thomas Honzelka
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Publication number: 20090266428Abstract: The fluid control system according to the present invention is characterized by being provided with a fluid control valve changing an opening area of a passage so as to control a flow rate of a fluid, a flow rate measuring device measuring a flow rate of the fluid, converting a measurement value of said flow rate to an electrical signal, and outputting it, and a control part outputting a command signal for controlling an opening area of said fluid control valve to said fluid control valve or a piece of equipment operating said fluid control valve based on a difference between the electrical signal from the flow rate measuring device and a set flow rate as a first characterizing feature.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2006Publication date: October 29, 2009Applicant: ASAHI ORGANIC CHEMICALS INDUSTRY CO., LTD.Inventors: Kenro Yoshino, Takashi Yamamoto
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Publication number: 20090250125Abstract: The present invention provides a monitoring system for a conduit network including one or more conduit sections joined at one or more conduit nodes, including: one or more sensor devices disposed at selected ones of the one or more conduit nodes, wherein each of the one or more sensor devices is operable for sensing a blockage or breakage in an associated conduit section, and wherein each of the one or more sensor devices is operable for communicating blockage or breakage information to a central location. Optionally, each of the sensor devices includes one of an audio sensor device and a radio frequency sensor device. Each of the sensor devices is operable for sensing the blockage or breakage in the associated conduit section by measuring an attribute of a transmitted/received signal, alone or in combination with another sensor device. Each of the sensor devices is operable for communicating the blockage or breakage information to the central location via a wireless link.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2009Publication date: October 8, 2009Inventor: Ivan Howitt
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Publication number: 20090229539Abstract: A condensate trap for a condensing boiler has a generally hollow body for receiving condensate from a heat exchanger of the condensing boiler and for providing a path of flow for condensate out of the side of the boiler. The body of the condensate trap includes a condensate receiving end having an inlet, a condensate discharging end having an outlet, and an intermediate reversely-turned trap portion interconnecting the condensate receiving and discharging ends. The hollow body can be one-piece and molded of plastic. A level sensor can be mounted on or within the condensate receiving end of the body. In a preferred embodiment, the condensate receiving end includes a chamber with an opening, and the level sensor extends within the chamber and seals the opening. The condensate trap can also include an air vent located above the level sensor in communication with an air pressure sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2008Publication date: September 17, 2009Applicant: BURNHAM SERVICES, INC.Inventor: Robert J. Young
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Publication number: 20090230136Abstract: System for storing an internal combustion engine exhaust gas liquid additive, the system comprising a tank for storing the additive and an “immersed” baseplate positioned through an opening made in the bottom wall of the tank, the baseplate comprising at least one orifice through which a system for injecting the additive into the exhaust gases can be fed, and also incorporating at least one other active component of the storage system and/or of the injection system.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2007Publication date: September 17, 2009Inventors: Francois Dougnier, Joel Op De Beeck
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Publication number: 20090165866Abstract: A valve is disclosed that has a control ball. The control ball has a passageway within which a sensor is disposed. The sensor measures a characteristic of the fluid passing through the control ball. The control ball can be controlled either manually or with an electronic actuator. A method is disclosed of retrofitting an existing fluid distribution system by replacing a valve that lacks sensing capabilities with a new valve having a sensor. The sensor measures the flow, temperature, or pressure of the fluid, and provides a signal that can be remotely monitored and corresponds to the measured characteristic.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2008Publication date: July 2, 2009Inventor: Giovanni Fima
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Patent number: 7504961Abstract: A local logic solver operates with a local smart valve controller to control and test a local field-mounted emergency isolation valve device, outputting a local indication of trouble on the device, which is mounted in the field away from the facility's central control panel for the process. Accordingly, the operation of the overall system is simplified by eliminating the need for an external computer to diagnose any problems. A local control panel includes an indicator light substantially adjacent to or in close proximity to the device being monitored to alert personnel of detected faults. Detected faults are time-stamped locally to generate documentation and to track the elapsed time, starting when the degraded state of the device was detected and first signaled as a problem.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2005Date of Patent: March 17, 2009Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil CompanyInventor: Patrick S. Flanders
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Patent number: 7500492Abstract: A device 10 for disbursing underground a liquid discharged from a sump pump 8 includes an underground liquid disbursing conduit 12 secured to a vertical conduit 14 extending upward from the underground liquid disbursing conduit 12 to a connector conduit 16, a bypass member or discharge conduit 18 secured to an upper portion 20 of the connector conduit 16, the bypass member 18 allowing liquid to be discharged above ground in the event the underground liquid disbursing conduit 12 or the vertical extending conduit 14 become plugged, and a means for directing liquid flow from the sump pump 8 to the conduit connector 16.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2005Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Inventor: Mark Mitoraj
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Publication number: 20080302429Abstract: The object of the SMITH WATER SAVER is to save and use the water in the hot water line, between the hot water heater and the faucet. When the user opens the hot water faucet, unheated water in the line begins to circulate back to the water heater in a return line. Ahead of the faucet is a throttle or thermocouple which while closed allows the unheated water to recirculate until it reaches a desired temperature (displayed by an indicator), at which time the throttle is opened, or a thermocouple opens automatically, and hot water flows out of the spigot.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2007Publication date: December 11, 2008Inventors: Tim M. Savinar, Karl G. Smith
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Publication number: 20080271795Abstract: The object of the invention is to give a coloured, temperature-dependent appearance to the water flowing out of a hot-water fitting. For that purpose, three temperature ranges are formed and a colour is associated with each of the temperature ranges. The three ranges correspond to too cold, too hot and desired temperature ranges. A lever (4) is actuated to cause a water jet (20) to flow out of the fitting. Depending on the position of the lever (4), only cold water, only hot water or mixed proportions of cold and hot water flow into the mixing chamber (7). Depending on the temperature measured in the mixing chamber (7), a control block (13) drives diodes (17) arranged at the outlet of the hot-water fitting and having a colour which corresponds to the temperature range in question, causing the diodes to emit light. The water jet (20) flowing past the diodes (17) is illuminated with said colour.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2005Publication date: November 6, 2008Inventor: Reiner Buhlmann
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Patent number: 7432845Abstract: To provide an inexpensive hot-water supply system that allows a user to readily select a desired unit for a physical quantity indicated on a display section of a remote controller. A bathroom-installed remote controller 4 is provided with a indication unit switching device that switches the units of hot-water temperature and hot-water amount represented by data transmitted from a water heater and indicated on a display section 20 between Fahrenheit/gallon (shown in FIG. 3(a)) and Celsius/liter (shown in FIG. 3(b)) depending on the presence or absence of long press of an operational switch 32 while the water heater is in a stand-by state.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2006Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: Rinnai CorporationInventors: Kumiko Yasutani, Shinji Nagata
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Publication number: 20080210315Abstract: A plurality of water processing units are connected together, in sequence, to produce one processed water, and tap-off connections are installed within various interconnections between various water processing units, to produce a plurality of different processed waters. The different processed waters from the sequence of water processing units and the tap-off connections are input to a plurality of input ports of a water faucet, the faucet having a selectable mode valve for outputting a selectable one of the different processed waters. Optionally, a condition of the water processing is monitored by a data processor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2008Publication date: September 4, 2008Inventor: Dana Harrison
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Publication number: 20080202606Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed that monitor a diaphragm condition. In one example, a fluid control device includes a body and a fluid passage through the body, the fluid passage including an inlet and an outlet. The example fluid control device also includes a diaphragm within the fluid control device to control the flow of fluid through the passage, and a sensor coupled to the diaphragm to monitor a condition associated with wear of the diaphragm.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2007Publication date: August 28, 2008Inventors: Dennis E. O'Hara, Joseph Michael Burke
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Publication number: 20080185049Abstract: A fluid supply monitoring system includes a housing, a shutoff valve and a flow sensor positioned downstream from the shutoff valve within the housing. The shutoff valve selectively blocks a fluid flow. The flow sensor is operable to monitor the fluid flow to calculate at least a length of time the fluid flow has flown without interruption, a total volume of the fluid flow that has flown, and a flow rate of the fluid flow.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2008Publication date: August 7, 2008Inventors: Timothy David Mulligan, David Michael Parrish, Richard Quintana, Aaron Ross London, Lindon Alford Baker, Richard Alan Gros
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Publication number: 20080149874Abstract: A flow amount adjusting valve includes a handle that enables an opening/closing amount of a valve plug to be adjusted. A piston connected to the valve plug is screw-engaged with a first axial portion of the handle. Additionally, along with displacement of the valve plug in the axial direction via the piston under a rotating action of the handle, an indicator element is accommodated in an interior portion of the handle. A first indicator undergoes screw-engagement with respect to the handle, and the indicator element is displaced together with displacement of the valve plug, such that displacement of the valve plug can be confirmed visually from outside the flow amount adjusting valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 24, 2007Publication date: June 26, 2008Applicant: SMC KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Yoshihiro Fukano, Tadashi Uchino
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Patent number: 7389792Abstract: An apparatus for sampling or feeding a flowable material through a wall of a vessel or conduit includes a body having a collection chamber formed therein. A passage has an opening operatively connected to the collection chamber. An orifice is formed in the body and is in communication with the collection chamber. The orifice is located generally adjacent the opening of the passage. A sealing device is mounted to the body to seal and unseal said orifice. Furthermore, at least a portion of the opening of the passage is located flush with or on a process side of the wall of the vessel or conduit when the apparatus is mounted to the wall of the vessel or conduit.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2003Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Assignee: NL Technologies, Ltd.Inventor: Douglas A. Newberg
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Publication number: 20080142094Abstract: The present invention provides a hot water device for bathtub in which water is not wasted to allow energy saving and at the same time it is possible to save a trouble of adjusting the temperature of water for bathtub supplied to the bathtub to a temperature desired by the user during bathing. In the hot water device for bathtub of the invention, the water for bathtub having its temperature varied by the controller to temperature desired by the user during bathing is supplied to a bathtub. Accordingly, the temperature adjustment using hot water is not needed, and thus water is not wasted to allow energy saving and at the same time it is possible to save a trouble of adjusting the temperature of hot water in the bathtub to a temperature desired by the user during bathing.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2007Publication date: June 19, 2008Applicant: Sanden CorporationInventors: Kouhei Takada, Koji Kobayashi
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Publication number: 20080121290Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method and an arrangement for diagnosis of a final control element, which is actuated by a pneumatically operated actuating mechanism under the control of a control device, and which emits acoustic signals during conventional use. It is proposed to detect acoustic signals fed back into the pneumatic system of the actuating mechanism, and to derive from them the status data of the final control element. For this purpose, an acoustic sensor is arranged in the pneumatic-fluid supply line of the actuating mechanism, with the acoustic sensor being electrically connected to an analysis device. A pressure sensor is used as the acoustic sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2007Publication date: May 29, 2008Applicant: ABB Patent GmbHInventors: Detlef Pape, Urs E. Meier, Andreas Stelter
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Patent number: 7341097Abstract: A coolant sensor doubles as a bleed valve for purging trapped air from a cooling system. The sensor slides into a port placing a sensor element in contact with the coolant. The sensor includes a pair of encircling o-rings for sealing the system from atmosphere in one position and permitting bleeding in a second position. The bleed channel is in the sensor port between the o-rings. The sensor is moved so the innermost o-ring clears the narrow opening into the cooling system. The outermost o-ring maintains a seal to keep the coolant from leaking out of the sensor port. The sensor is held in either position by a horseshoe clip or by a bayonet arrangement, the horseshoe clip arrangement including multiple apertures for each position, the bayonet having a position to provide for safe bleeding of air from the cooling system without completely removing the sensor from its retention port.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2003Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Assignee: Chrysler LLCInventor: Eric Darby
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Patent number: RE41299Abstract: A fluid control system that includes a fluid manifold having a plurality of manifold bodies fastened to each other end-to-end so as to form at least first and second passages extending continuously through the manifold and each of the bodies. A plurality of solenoid valves are each mounted on a side of an associated body with valve ports opening into the body to the fluid passage(s) that extend through the manifold. An electrical connection arrangement is mounted at one end of the manifold for receiving control signals from an external source. A plurality of circuitboards are disposed one within the second passage of each body, with each of the circuitboards including male and female connectors at opposed ends for connecting the circuitboards in series with each other to the electrical connection arrangement at the end of the manifold. A third connector on each circuitboard extends laterally from the circuitboard for connection to the solenoid valve mounted on the side of the associated manifold body.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2005Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: Numatics, IncorporatedInventors: Bradly J. Atkin, Dennis L. Bonacorsi, Donald E. McGeachy, William S. Smith