Plural Patents (Class 137/552)
  • Patent number: 12123656
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of mapping an in-building water supply installation having multiple controllable water outlets, the installation including a supply of water; in a water flow path between the supply of water and the controllable water outlets, a flow measurement device and a flow regulator; a processor being operatively connected to the flow measurement device and the at least one flow regulator. The method comprises opening a first of the water outlets and processing signals from the flow measurement device with the processor at least until a first flow characteristic is determined; closing the first of the water outlets; repeating the opening, processing and closing operations for each of the other water outlets to determine for each controllable water outlet a respective flow characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2024
    Assignee: OCTOPUS ENERGY HEATING LIMITED
    Inventor: Peter Konowalczyk
  • Patent number: 11964725
    Abstract: A control device of a bicycle includes an actuator and a first controller. The first controller is configured to generate and transmit, from the first controller to a second controller of the bicycle, messages for a predetermined time period at a first transmission rate in response to activation of the actuator. The first controller is further configured to, after the predetermined period of time, generate and transmit, from the first controller to the second controller, one or more messages at a second transmission rate until the actuator is deactivated. The first transmission rate is greater than the second transmission rate, and each of the messages includes data identifying the activation of the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2024
    Assignee: SRAM, LLC
    Inventors: Sage Hahn, Kristi Lin, Alexander Kon-I Ho
  • Patent number: 11542687
    Abstract: Assembly (10) for measuring a leakage in a drinking water supply system, with a backflow preventer (12), wherein the backflow preventer (12) is opened if there is a pressure drop caused by drinking water consumption downstream of the backflow preventer (12) as viewed in a flow direction of the drinking water, and wherein the backflow preventer (12) is closed if there is no pressure drop caused by drinking water consumption downstream of the backflow preventer (12), as viewed in the flow direction of the drinking water, with a volume flow meter (13) connected in parallel to the backflow preventer (12) and via which, if the backflow preventer (12) is closed, a leakage flow of drinking water caused by a leakage in the drinking water supply system downstream of the backflow preventer (12) can be routed, wherein the volume flow meter (13) is integrated into a bypass (14) to the backflow preventer (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: Pittway Sarl
    Inventor: Peter Tasser
  • Patent number: 11473690
    Abstract: Automating the control of ball valves (BV) in engineering systems is designed for water supply, ventilation, air conditioning and heating systems. An electric actuator (EA) streamlines the process of automation of engineering systems by saving money and time. The EA with a coupling device is fastened to the BV stem. The coupling device comprises an engagement adapter with projections, an adapter washer and a securing member. The reduction gear main shaft is provided with a through hole for receiving the BV stem and the securing member, and a seat provided on the side of the EA and BV stem joint. The adapter washer is placed in the main shaft seat and the engagement adapter is joined permanently with the EA case and engages the BV body with projections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Inventors: Vasilii Kasatochkin, Konstantin Siniagovskii
  • Patent number: 11080660
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method, system, and computer program product are provided. A plurality of maintenance messages (MMSGs) are identified. Each MMSG is associated with at least one shut-off valve. A sensor parameter is identified based on an analysis of sensor parameters associated with the shut-off valves of each MMSG. A threshold value for the sensor parameter is identified as being associated with abnormal operation of the respective shut-off valves. A sensor associated with a first shut-off valve captures values for the sensor parameter during a first and second predefined time period, the first and second predefined time periods associated with an opening and a closing of the first shut-off valve. Upon determining that a difference between the maximum values of the sensor values captured during the first and second predefined time periods exceeds the first threshold value, a determination is made that the first shut-off valve is operating abnormally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Rashmi N. Sundareswara, Tsai-Ching Lu, Franz D. Betz
  • Patent number: 11022079
    Abstract: An engine gas valve with a valve housing manifold with at least one flow passage and an annular clutch body arranged within the valve housing manifold. A drive shaft is arranged such that at least a portion of the drive shaft is positioned concentrically within the clutch body. A first valve element is supported on the drive shaft to rotate with the drive shaft within the at least one flow passage and a second valve element supported on the clutch body within the at least one flow passage. An actuator is coupled to the drive shaft to pivot the drive shaft between a first state in which the first and second valve elements are closed, a second state in which the first valve element is open and the second valve element is closed, and a third state in which the first and second valve elements are open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventor: Randy R. Scarf
  • Patent number: 10962133
    Abstract: A water or gas system for a home or commercial building receives water and gas at higher pressures than they can handle in the building or home. The automated regulation device monitors the regulator 24 hours a day, seven days a week so the second there is a failure with pressure, flow, temperature, seismic it recognizes it, notifies you via email, text, etc . . . shuts the system down at same time. There are gas and water sensors for leaks also there is a seismic sensor in the unit for earthquakes, and a pressure sensing switch with digital readout. The unit is capable of running by itself, on solar panel and a battery or being wired in to the system dependent upon application. The unit is also controlled by user via telephone or other remote devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Inventor: Hadi Said Hillo
  • Patent number: 10791881
    Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) dispenser that includes low cost electronic components that can read and write to the tag of a refill cartridge. In one embodiment, the reader utilizes a multi band pass filter to convert the radio frequency identification into a digital signal that is processed by a controller to perform a dispensing function representative to the code of the tag. In another embodiment, the controller utilizes an internal comparator to convert the radio frequency identification into a digital signal that is processed by a controller to perform a dispensing function representative to the code of the tag. The dispenser in both embodiments also includes a pair of transistors that write to the RFID tag of the refill cartridge. A dispenser according to the invention also includes the capability to read and/or write to tags upon cartridges employed by the dispenser, and augmenting the operation of the dispenser as a function thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: GOJO Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jackson W. Wegelin, Aaron R. Reynolds, Chip W. Curtis
  • Patent number: 10753988
    Abstract: A device for wirelessly transmitting a rotation position of an actuator. The device comprises first and second housings. The housing configured for securing to a body of the actuator. An adaptive sleeve may be used for coupling the second housing to a stem of the actuator. The device includes a sensor and a sensor trigger that are mounted in different ones of the first and second housings. The sensor generates a sensor output signal based on a proximity of the sensor to the sensor trigger. The sensor and sensor trigger are mounted such that relative motion between the first and second housings produces a change in the sensor output signal. A radio transmitter transmits the rotational position of the actuator stem based on the sensor output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: Nortek Security & Control LLC
    Inventors: Jason Patrick Wimmer, Jason Alan Cane
  • Patent number: 10690153
    Abstract: A Hydraulic Manifold Control Assembly for use in connection with surface blowout preventers and diverter control systems. Said Hydraulic Manifold Control Assembly incorporates design elements and methods which reduce overall envelope dimensions, improving maintenance accessibility, thereby reducing overall installation and manufacturing time and ultimately contributing to a more robust, cost effective end-product. Said design elements and methods include: the use of intrinsically safe I/O modules and components; the employment of a removable valve assembly rack installation method; the use of a removable face plate for identification of flow control valves; the implementation of a digital automatic diverter sequence; the use of integrated manifold assemblies; and the integration of a wide-range function count.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: Stella Maris, LLC
    Inventors: Ryan A. LeBlanc, Paul W. Stutes, Ryan S. Gary, Michael P. Menard, Jacob R. Denison, Luis A. Chinchilla, Calvin R. Williamson, Devi Satish Chandra Mallavalli, Ryan J. Dugas, James G. Ray, Clay S. Hulsey
  • Patent number: 10487956
    Abstract: A valve assembly including a valve having an opening and closing mechanism for controlling the flow of a fluid through the valve controlled by an actuator and an actuator mounting bracket secured to the valve. The actuator mounting bracket includes upper and lower clamps securing the valve actuator to the valve regardless of the valve position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: Insight Technical Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Clark Meyer, Vern Mauzy
  • Patent number: 10473545
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for controlling, measuring and reporting a physical quantity, more specifically to an apparatus that can be adapted to any valve of a container containing a fluid under pressure, more particularly a device that can be adapted to any valve of a container containing a gas or liquid under pressure. It has a particularly advantageous application in the general field of measuring the pressure of the output flow of fluid, in particular industrial or medicinal fluids contained in bottles. The machine comprises the support, electromechanical switch constituted by the dosing knob and the support for the dosing knob which incorporates the electronic circuitry for controlling the rate of fluid flow by pressure sensor for reading the output pressure of the fluid from the container and by the data processing system for processing the data obtained by the electromechanical switch and by the pressure sensor. This information can be viewed on the display or remotely transmitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: ACAIL GÁS S.A.
    Inventors: Marco Alexandre De Pais Melo, Nuno Vasco Pinho Andrade
  • Patent number: 10444048
    Abstract: Embodiments of a sprayer system having spray nozzles; each nozzle includes a thermistor or resistor that provides an electronic current or voltage value correlated with a flow rate or a local temperature. A low flow rate indicates of a fluid flow clog or plug within the nozzle or conduit. The flow rate or temperature results among the different nozzles are compared to detect which nozzles are partially or entirely clogged or otherwise anomalous. In various embodiments, the thermistor electronics are integrated in each individual nozzle. In some embodiments, upon detection of a potential clog, the electronics create an alert and respond to the clogged condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2019
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Richard A. Humpal, Dolly Y. Wu
  • Patent number: 10400902
    Abstract: The cross-sectional shape of a valve hole is an elongated shape having a long axis and a short axis, and has left and right hole side walls that are parallel to each other, a first hole end wall that connects one ends of the left and right hole side walls, and a second hole end wall that connects the other ends of the left and right hole side walls, and the cross-sectional shape of land portions of a spool is an elongated shape having a long axis and a short axis, and has left and right land side walls that are parallel to each other, a first land end wall that connects one ends of the left and right land side walls, and a second land end wall that connects the other ends of the left and right land side walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: SMC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shinji Miyazoe, Kazuhiro Noguchi
  • Patent number: 10054054
    Abstract: An air guiding device for an aircraft engine, characterized in that it has at least one valve element which is moveable between a first position, in particular an open position, and a second position, in particular a closed position, wherein in the first position of the at least one valve element, through a combined effect with at least one first air guiding element that is arranged inside the air flow, a cooling air flow can be guided from an air flow into a hollow space between the housing and the core engine of the aircraft engine, and the at least one first air guiding element is aligned at least approximately in parallel to the air flow for the purpose of reducing flow resistance. The invention also relates to an aircraft engine comprising at least one air guiding device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: ROLLS-ROYCE DEUTSCHLAND LTD & CO KG
    Inventor: Matthijs Van Der Woude
  • Patent number: 9927044
    Abstract: An actuator provides two step control of a dual valve or dual damper, such as in an HVAC system. The gear train includes projections on top and bottom faces of the final gear, the projections being rotationally offset from each other by an angle. Each projection mates into a slot of a Geneva-gear-type output member, with two such output members accessible, one on the top of the actuator and one on the bottom of the actuator. During the portion of the throw that the upwardly facing projection is in the slot of the upwardly exposed Geneva-type output gear, the final gear rotates the upper output member to control one flow blockage member in the valve or damper. During another portion of the throw, rotation of the final gear does not rotate the upper output member, but instead rotates the lower output member and its flow blockage member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2018
    Assignee: KMC Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin D. Kezar
  • Patent number: 9891135
    Abstract: A failure detecting device of a fault detection system includes a detection time calculator, which calculates a stroke time T3 required for a piston to travel between one end and another end of an actuator based on detection signals from a first sensor and a second sensor, a statistical processor that performs a predetermined statistical calculation with respect to the stroke time T3, and a fault response detector, which detects whether or not a fault of the actuator has occurred based on a processing result of the statistical processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: SMC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Tomohiko Aki
  • Patent number: 9885320
    Abstract: A pressure regulator (10) including a body (12) having an internal chamber (110) and a thermal shield (124) made of a material having a lower thermal conductivity than a material of the body (12) for reducing heat transfer between the body (12) and the fluid flowing into the internal chamber (110). By reducing heat transfer between the fluid and the body (12), the temperature of the components of the pressure regulator (10) is increased to reduce failure of the components and the density of the fluid is increased to improve the flow capacity of the pressure regulator (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: William Eric Ehlig, Daniel Morgan
  • Patent number: 9715000
    Abstract: A system for use in identifying one of an unmanned ground vehicle and an unmanned aerial vehicle includes a signal emitter associated with the unmanned vehicle. The signal emitter includes at least one quantum cascade laser. The signal emitter emits a signal having a wavelength between approximately 2 ?m and approximately 30 ?m, and the signal is detectable to identify the unmanned vehicle as friendly at a distance from the signal emitter greater than approximately 1 meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: LaserMax, Inc.
    Inventors: Susan Houde-Walter, Christopher A. Gagliano, Daniel Balonek
  • Patent number: 9518675
    Abstract: A manual gate valve operator used in the oil and gas industry. The operator does not allow an increase or decrease in height when manually rotating the hand wheel. Instead, the operator has an internal indicator nut of the position of the valve. The indicator nut is observable electronically or visually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: Safoco, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Cook, Brandon Marbach
  • Patent number: 9432114
    Abstract: A passive optical network (PON) component comprising a power switch, a detector configured to monitor the power switch, and a processor configured to receive an interrupt from the detector and transmit a message comprising a first indicator that the PON component has powered down, and a second indicator giving a reason for the power down. A passive optical network (PON) component comprising a processor configured to implement a method comprising receiving an interrupt message from a detector, determining a reason for the interrupt, and transmitting a dying gasp message comprising an indicator of the reason for the interrupt. A method comprising transmitting an alarm message comprising an optical network terminal (ONT) manual power off indicator that indicates the ONT is shutting down because a subscriber has turned off its power switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: Futurewei Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Shaffer, Jinrong Yin, Wei Lin, Sulin Yang
  • Patent number: 9151396
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes an electronics housing and a valve housing assembly engaged to the electronics housing. The valve housing assembly includes a valve body defining a plurality of fluid ports in fluid communication with the valve bore. A plurality of fluid dampeners is disposed in the fluid ports. A sensor plate is engaged to the valve body. The sensor plate defines a plurality of sensor ports that are generally aligned with the fluid ports of the valve body. At least four fluid sensors are disposed in the plurality of fluid ports of the valve body. A cover is engaged to the sensor plate. The cover defines a cavity. A circuit board is disposed in the cavity of the cover. The circuit board is in electrical communication with the fluid sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: EATON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Pankaj Nalgirkar, Rahul L. Navale, Kevin E. Alstrin
  • Publication number: 20150114490
    Abstract: A preferred embodiment of the present invention is directed to a water management system. One aspect of a version of the invention comprises a manifold with separate lines running to separate appliances and fixtures. Each individual line detects leaks, alerts that a leak has occurred, shuts down only the leaking line, and provides a visual cue to alert that the line is leaking. In one embodiment of a version of the invention, the water management system comprises a hot water heater water management system that detects leaks, sounds an alarm, shuts down the water heater power, and drains the water heater. In a preferred embodiment, once the water heater is repaired and refilled, the power is automatically restored.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: LEAKSHIELD, LLC
    Inventor: Scott Carpenter
  • Patent number: 8978698
    Abstract: A blowout preventer for sealing a tubular of a wellbore is provided. The blowout preventer has a housing having a bore therethrough for receiving the tubular, at least one ram slidably positionable in the housing (each of the rams having a ram block for sealing engagement about the tubular), an actuator for selectively driving the ram block (the actuator comprising a piston slidably positionable in a cylinder), and a monitor for detecting the piston therein. The monitor has a visual indicator on an exterior of the cylinder. The visual indicator is operatively coupled to the piston for displaying a position of the piston as the piston travels within the cylinder whereby a position of the ram may be determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Joseph James Liotta, Eric Trevor Ensley, Christopher Dale Johnson
  • Patent number: 8978699
    Abstract: A status assembly to provide visual and electronic indication of the position (open, closed, in-between) of the ram of a ram-type blowout preventer (BOP). The assembly is capable of coupling with a hydraulic motor that can be used to open and close the ram locks. The status assembly includes a rotatable element protruding from the BOP, a gear rotatable by the rotatable element, and an indicator that indicates the rotation position of the rotatable element and thus the linear position of the BOP ram. Some embodiments can also include a sensor that outputs an electronic signal to the system operator and can be incorporated into the main display for the BOP control system. This device is able to give immediate feedback to operators and to indicate whether each ram has achieved its intended travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Andrew Jaffrey, Gerrit M. Kroesen, John Mangan
  • Patent number: 8944099
    Abstract: A valve arrangement is provided, (1) comprising: a valve (2) for controlling a flow of heating or cooling fluid through a heat exchanger, an actuator (12) for actuating said valve (2), control means (15) for controlling said actuator (12), a first temperature sensor (18) connected to said control means (15), a thermal resistance between the first temperature sensor (18) and the valve (2) being greater than a thermal resistance between the second temperature sensor (19) and the valve (2). It is intended to improve control of the valve. To this end the first temperature sensor (18) and the second temperature sensor (19) are part of detector means detecting a closing condition of the valve (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Danfoss A/S
    Inventors: Peter Gammeljord Nielsen, Lars Munch, Niels Gregersen, Bjarne Frederiksen
  • Publication number: 20150027558
    Abstract: A mass flow controller includes at least one conduit having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the conduit defining a flow path along which the fluid flows. The mass flow controller also includes a modified inlet block having an inlet aperture, an inlet channel, and a reservoir fluidly coupled to the inlet channel and the conduit that enhances flow through the controller and improves rate-of-decay measurements. The mass flow controller includes at least one flow sensor that generates a flow sensor signal that is proportional to the mass flow rate of the fluid through the conduit. The mass flow controller includes a control sub-system coupled to a flow sensor and a valve assembly to control flow through the conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: Anthony Kehoe, John Lull, Bill Valentine, Chris Ellec
  • Patent number: 8905057
    Abstract: A shunt pan is used to prevent excessive water damage from occurring if water leaking from a kitchen appliance is not discovered in a timely manner. The shunt pan directs the flow of collecting water into a walkway of a kitchen, where it is visible, rather than allowing the water to soak into surrounding kitchen walls and cabinets. A shunt pan is characterized by a rectangular floor bordered on three sides by walls, but not bordered by a physical obstruction on the fourth side, which is open. Preferably, the open side includes an indicator material, such as confetti or glitter in a water-soluble binder, that can be carried by flowing water into the walkway. If the water that carried the indicator material evaporates, the indicator material will remain in the walkway to clearly show the presence of a water leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Leland W. Sass
  • Patent number: 8833390
    Abstract: A valve meter device, assembly, and method is disclosed including a housing defining at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening and a channel connecting the openings, the at least one inlet opening having an inlet end and the at least one outlet opening having an outlet end; a water meter positioned in the channel, the water meter configured to monitor a flow of water through the valve meter device; and a valve in communication with the channel and configured to control the flow of water through the valve meter device. In some embodiments, a linear distance exists between the inlet end and the outlet end, the linear distance being no greater than a standard water meter lay-length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Marty Scott Ball, Scott Aron Linkel
  • Patent number: 8794595
    Abstract: Diaphragm valve with internal leak detection and improved external leak sealing performance. In diaphragm valves comprising diaphragms that have shields and backings, a rigid seal plate interposed between the shield and backing prevents peripheral regions of the shield from cold-flowing into the backing, despite the compression forces produced by tightening the fasteners that secure the diaphragm to the valve's bonnet assembly and body. An access port passing through the seal plate provides an interface between a void located between the shield and the backing and a breach detector. The breach detector is configured to detect pressure, volume, moisture or mass deviations in fluid disposed in the void, and the deviations indicate whether there's a rupture in the shield or the backing. The breach detector can be connected to an alarming device or signaling system to provide warnings and alerts to valve operators, process control panels or data communication networks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp.
    Inventors: Daniel I. Reed, Joseph T. Sullivan, Gerald C. Shifflett
  • Patent number: 8763622
    Abstract: An interlock monitoring system includes a magnetic proximity sensor within a poppet valve type coupler to detect whether the poppet valve is opened or closed. An open poppet valve indicates a proper connection. The sensor consists of dedicated electronics that prevent cheating, or bypassing, by either shorting out or opening the contacts to the sensor. In addition, a ferrous metal proximity switch is used to provide a redundant confirmation of proper connection of the coupler. The ferrous magnetic proximity switch will indicate whether or not the coupler is actually in contact with an appropriate connection. Each of the magnetic proximity sensor and the ferrous magnetic proximity switch must indicate a respective proper condition in order to determine a valid interlock condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Scully Signal Company
    Inventor: Robert R. Trottier
  • Publication number: 20140158215
    Abstract: A valve device including a valve housing which bounds a valve chamber in which a valve member is accommodated for movement between a blocking position and a release position in order to influence a free flow cross-section for a fluid in a flow path between an inlet passage terminating into the valve chamber and an outlet passage leading from the valve chamber, further including a first absolute pressure sensor for providing a first pressure signal as a function of an operating pressure in the flow path, and further including an evaluation circuit for processing the first pressure signal. It is provided that a second absolute pressure sensor is located outside the flow path, which is designed to provide a second pressure signal as a function of an operating pressure outside the flow path and which is connected to the evaluation circuit for enabling a differential pressure between the first and second pressure signals to be determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2013
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: FESTO AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: Martin Maichl, Martin Meier, Andreas Dickhoff
  • Patent number: 8707987
    Abstract: A water tap is disclosed, which comprises an operating element for operating the tap, a sensor for detection of the touch of at least a portion of the tap by an object and generation of a detection signal and signalling means for generation of a warning signal based on the detection signal. The sensor and the signalling means are configured to generate a warning signal at a touch of at least a portion of the tap. A hot water system comprising the water tap is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Henri Peteri Beheer B.V.
    Inventor: Niels Theodoor Peteri
  • Publication number: 20140000733
    Abstract: A faucet includes a spout, a handle, and a capacitive sensor operably coupled to at least one of the spout and the handle. An electrically operable valve is configured to control water flow through the spout. A mode indicator includes a light emitting device configured to provide an indication of a plurality of modes of operation of the faucet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: MASCO CORPORATION OF INDIANA
    Inventors: Patrick B. Jonte, Robert W. Rodenbeck, David M. Burke, Garry Robin Marty
  • Patent number: 8596296
    Abstract: A regulating valve of the type preferably used for dynamic regulation of fluid-borne systems, such as central heating systems in housing and industrial buildings or cooling facilities, where the control valve is provided with a valve housing with an inlet and an outlet, where a valve insert with an orifice is provided in the valve housing by which the flow in the regulating valve can be regulated, and where additionally there are detectors for detecting either supply pressure or discharge pressure and another pressure, respectively. The regulating valve is provided with a modular valve insert which at least includes a differential pressure regulator, a venturi, a throttle device and a coupling member for an actuator, where the various modules have interacting joining means. A valve insert may thus be built up of respective modules, where the modules are selected individually with the most suitable specifications for the individual task.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Broen A/S
    Inventor: Christian Bo Rasmussen
  • Patent number: 8596295
    Abstract: A check valve position indicator assembly is disclosed including an indicator housing, an indicator shaft rotatably disposed in the indicator housing, an indicator arm attached to the shaft, a rod attached to the shaft, a mounting bracket, an indicia member attached to the mounting bracket, and at least one fastener attaching the indicator housing with the mounting bracket. In some embodiments, a seal is included along the bottom of the indicator housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Umit Jon Colpan, Robert Peter Jackson
  • Patent number: 8573250
    Abstract: A steam trap comprises a housing defining a flow passage extending between an inlet and an outlet. A cap fitted to the housing has a stop face. In addition, the housing and the cap define a trap chamber. A movable valve element is located in the trap chamber. The steam trap further comprises a first temperature sensor having an inlet sensing portion in the flow path between the inlet and valve element. A second temperature sensor has an outlet sensing portion in the flow path between the valve element and the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Spirax Sarco, Inc.
    Inventors: Bernard J. Radle, Robert Leslie Penfield
  • Patent number: 8561453
    Abstract: A method and system for automatically calibrating all pressure sensors in a hydrogen storage system for a fuel cell vehicle. A pressure regulator in the hydrogen storage system, which has much greater accuracy at low pressures, is used to calibrate the high-range pressure sensors used in the hydrogen storage system. This calibration can only be done when the pressure regulator is in a fully open position. In such a condition, the pressure sensors can be calibrated to the regulation pressure value of the regulator, thus greatly improving the accuracy of the readings of the high-range sensors at the low end of their range. The calibration can be performed during fuel cell operation under certain circumstances, performed during a programmed shutdown sequence, or performed in a service procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Ralph Hobmeyr, Björn Zörner, Heiko Hrobarsch
  • Patent number: 8555918
    Abstract: Flow rate control valve includes: a target probe formed of a magnetically-responsive substance and mounted to one end of a spool; a sensor housing mounted to the one end of the sleeve and having a cylinder section defining an inner space to permit entry therein of the target probe; and first and second coils provided around the cylinder section and axially spaced from each other by a predetermined distance. The probe is constructed so that magnetic response of the coils gradually varies in one direction in response to a linear position of the target probe. The first coil responds to the target probe, while the second coil does not respond to the target probe. Impedance of the first coil varies with a linear position of the probe (31), and the linear position of the probe is detected through differential synthesis performed between outputs of the first and second coils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Amiteq Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Atsushi Goto
  • Patent number: 8555917
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Areva NP Inc
    Inventors: Vedat T. Ataman, Lew McKeague
  • Patent number: 8550114
    Abstract: A time remaining display assembly for indicating the time remaining in a pressurized gas tank, adapted to be connected to a regulator having a flow rate adjuster for selecting one of a plurality of flow rate settings comprising an assembly coupled to the flow rate adjuster, the assembly having one or more time scales imprinted thereon, each time scale corresponding to one of the flow rate settings, each time scale indicating the time remaining in the tank as a function of gas pressure in the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventors: Wilton Cahn Levine, Mark Alan Deshur
  • Patent number: 8528579
    Abstract: A faucet includes 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. The logical control includes a mode controller that changes the faucet between a first mode and a second mode in response to substantially simultaneous touching of the spout and the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Patrick B Jonte, Robert W Rodenbeck, David M Burke, Garry R Marty
  • Patent number: 8517039
    Abstract: Assembly of multiple individual fluid pressure control solenoid valves and an individual fluid temperature sensor so packaged relative to a respective one of the individual solenoid valves as to permit direct or indirect fluid temperature measurement at individual solenoid valves. The assembly can include a lead-frame support (e.g. a printed circuit board) having multiple individual fluid pressure control solenoid valves and an individual transmission oil temperature sensor disposed on the lead-frame support in an oil passage that communicates to an output flow port of a respective one of the individual solenoid valves to provide transmission oil temperature information to a transmission electronic control unit, wherein the transmission electronic control unit provides command signals to the individual solenoid valves in response to the individual transmission oil temperature input signals associated with an individual solenoid valve to achieve more accurate pressure control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Saturn Electronics & Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Seid, Kevin Manthei, Hamid Najmolhoda
  • Publication number: 20130186488
    Abstract: A regulating valve has a dome, a discharge sheet and a flow deflector. The dome has a base and a circumferential wall. The discharge sheet and the flow deflector are set in the dome in sequence. A discharge portion, a cold water portion, a hot water portion and a warm water portion are set on the base. A discharge slot, a cold water slot, a hot water slot and a warm water slot are set on the discharge sheet correspondingly. A guide slot is extended outwards from the center of the circle on the surface of the flow deflector. The end point of the center of the guide slot is set correspondingly to the discharge slot. When the flow deflector is rotated, there may occur either of a water shutdown state, or a hot, lukewarm, warm, chilly or cold water discharge state, enabling to switch water discharge efficiently.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventor: Teng-Lung LIU
  • Patent number: 8474474
    Abstract: A method of diagnosing pressure boundary integrity of a control includes choosing a control valve having a valve body, determining a velocity profile within the control valve, choosing an area of the velocity profile, choosing a surface on an exterior of the valve body at or adjacent to the area, forming a pad on the exterior surface overlying the point, applying a testing device to the pad, and measuring a reference thickness of a wall of the valve body through the pad using the testing device. The method further includes applying the testing device to the pad at a time subsequent to measurement of the reference thickness, measuring a first thickness, and comparing the first thickness to the reference thickness. The comparison of the first thickness to the reference thickness can be used to calculate the amount of valve body wall lost during using and the remaining life of the control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
    Inventor: Galen Dale Wilke
  • Patent number: 8453674
    Abstract: According to aspects described herein, there is disclosed a method of and system for indicating a fault associated with a fluid valve moveable between an open and a closed operative position. The method and system compare a valve state indicator to a valve last command, wherein the valve state indicator represents a detected operative position of the valve and the valve last command being an operative command sent to the fluid valve. The method and system also initiate a fault indication after a predetermined time delay relative to the valve last command being sent and when the valve state indicator does not match the valve last command. After the time delay a fault indication can be initiated immediately upon receipt of a different valve state indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Target Rock Division of Curtiss-Wright FLow Control Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin Gerard Cordle, John Behm
  • Patent number: 8381765
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a valve. The valve includes a valve element having a metering opening, a valve gate which is movable in translation for the opening and closing of the metering opening, an actuating actuator configured for the execution of a tilting movement, and a lever arm which is coupled to the actuating actuator and which converts the tilting movement of the actuating actuator for the opening and closing of the metering opening into a translatory stroke movement of the valve gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Marco Systemanalyse und Entwicklung GmbH
    Inventor: Martin Reuter
  • Patent number: 8312891
    Abstract: A gas pressure sensor assembly for a gas regulator includes a plurality of selectable inlets, an outlet and a gauge. Each inlet receives pressurized gas from a different one of a plurality of pressurized gas storage containers. The outlet supplies gas to an appliance. The gauge senses a selected gas pressure in an inlet corresponding to the selected gas storage container and visually indicates a pressure of that gas storage container. The gas pressure sensor assembly includes a cooperating member at least partially housed within the gauge, a disc member rotatably responsive to a gas pressure and an sensing device. The sensing device is releasably connected to the gauge, is selectively actuated by movement of the disc member and is configured to provide an audible signal indicative of a generally empty status of the gas storage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Cavagna Group
    Inventor: Savio Cavagna
  • Publication number: 20120227841
    Abstract: A water tap is disclosed, which comprises an operating element for operating the tap, a sensor for detection of the touch of at least a portion of the tap by an object and generation of a detection signal and signalling means for generation of a warning signal based on the detection signal. The sensor and the signalling means are configured to generate a warning signal at a touch of at least a portion of the tap. A hot water system comprising the water tap is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: HENRI PETERI BEHEER B.V.
    Inventor: Niels Theodoor Peteri
  • Publication number: 20120211097
    Abstract: A valve that can be actuated by a position controller via a drive, wherein the position controller has a housing and is fastened to the valve by the housing. A first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor are attached on or in the housing. As a result of the position of both sensors, the temperature measured using the first temperature sensor is more readily influenced by the valve and the temperature registered by the second temperature sensor is more readily influenced by the environment. If a gas leak occurs in the valve, a temperature difference occurs that is evaluated for diagnosis of a leak. The diagnostic system is particularly easy to minor implement with minimal effort.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Alf Püttmer