Inspection Means Patents (Class 137/559)
  • Patent number: 11517779
    Abstract: A test, drain and adjustable pressure relief module for a sprinkler system has a single body with three independent and fluidly connectable flow ports. A first port of the three flow ports is fluidly connectable at an inlet side thereof to the sprinkler system. A second port of the three flow ports has an adjustable pressure relief valve removably mounted to an outlet thereof. The valve is biased into a closed position and a threshold pressure is required to open the valve and discharge fluid is selectively adjustable. A third port of the three flow ports has an open outlet end configured to removably connect with a drainage pipe. The three ports form a Tee connection and have a flow valve therebetween to selectively direct flow between an outlet of the first port and at least one of the respective inlets of the second and third ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: VICTAULIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Stephen J. Meyer, Thomas Edwin Archibald, Kevin Desmond Maughan
  • Patent number: 11512794
    Abstract: A pressure relief valve includes a valve body, a valve seat, a bonnet, and a valve actuator. The valve body has an open top, a bottom, a back and a front with a cavity formed within. A cap with a first vent is removably attached to the open top. An inlet opening and a discharge opening are in fluid communication with the cavity is formed at the bottom and front of the valve body respectively. The valve seat is circumferentially disposed around the inlet opening within the cavity. A recessed area is formed on a surface on the distal end of the valve seat that is configured to receive a lip seal. The bonnet has a closed top end with a second vent. The valve actuator is coupled within the bonnet to a set-pressure enabling means that is not a mechanical spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Inventors: Tanmoy C. Chakravarty, Gopalakrishna Salvady, Anurag Sharma, Stanunathan Venkatachalam
  • Patent number: 11486500
    Abstract: A ball valve assembly having a valve body with a single inline fluid passage therethrough along a central longitudinal axis. A ball valve is sealingly seated in a valve seat within the valve body. The ball valve includes at least two through-bores, each of the at least two through-bores having a central axis intersecting one another, whereby the ball valve is rotatable between a fully open position and a fully closed position. In one application, the ball valve has two bores intersecting one another such that an angle ? between adjacent bore openings of the ball valve are less than 90 degrees and an angle ? between other adjacent ends of the ball valve are greater than 90 degrees for applying liquid product in a seed furrow before and after each seed in the furrow but not onto the seed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: Precision Planting LLC
    Inventor: Justin McMenamy
  • Patent number: 11365109
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a water dispensing device control method, which includes: a step of allowing a call word in a sound shape uttered from a user to be input into a microphone; a step of identifying the input call word in a sound identifying module and outputting guiding sound of identifying the call word through a speaker; a step of allowing the desired discharge water amount in the sound shape uttered from the user to be input into the microphone; a step of identifying the input desired water discharge amount in the sound identifying module and outputting guiding sound of identifying the water discharge amount through the speaker; a step of allowing a user to input a water discharge order; a step of allowing water discharge to be implemented while a water discharge valve is opened; and a step of allowing the water discharge to be finished while the water discharge valve is closed when the water discharge flow rate detected in a flow rate sensor reaches the input desired water discharge amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventor: Shinhyun Park
  • Patent number: 11162594
    Abstract: A drain petcock having a central channel for drainage, a side wall aperture for draining, and a closing plug that closes the central channel and overlies the side wall aperture. The partial removal of the closing plug enables a controlled flow for initial draining. A full removal of the closing plug enables a more controlled flow through the central channel for further draining.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: RB Distribution, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Lawrence LoCastro, Charles Bowman
  • Patent number: 11060630
    Abstract: A rigid piston assembly for use in a conventional flush valve includes a rigid piston and a solenoid configured to fixedly engage within the valve body. A flush valve for a plumbing fixture as well as a method of retrofitting a piston valve into a diaphragm flush valve body which includes a rigid piston and solenoid configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: SDB IP Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Shawn D. Bush, Ryan W. Nottage
  • Patent number: 11008207
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a water dispensing device control method, which includes: a step of allowing a call word in a sound shape uttered from a user to be input into a microphone; a step of identifying the input call word in a sound identifying module and outputting guiding sound of identifying the call word through a speaker; a step of allowing the desired discharge water amount in the sound shape uttered from the user to be input into the microphone; a step of identifying the input desired water discharge amount in the sound identifying module and outputting guiding sound of identifying the water discharge amount through the speaker; a step of allowing a user to input a water discharge order; a step of allowing water discharge to be implemented while a water discharge valve is opened; and a step of allowing the water discharge to be finished while the water discharge valve is closed when the water discharge flow rate detected in a flow rate sensor reaches the input desired water discharge amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventor: Shinhyun Park
  • Patent number: 10967375
    Abstract: Techniques regarding nanofluidic chips with a plurality of inlets and/or outlets in fluid communication with one or more nanoDLD arrays are provided. For example, one or more embodiments described herein can comprise a nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array between and in fluid communication with a global inlet and a global outlet. The nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array can further be between and in fluid communication with a local inlet and a local outlet. Also, the nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array can laterally displace a particle comprised within a sample fluid supplied from the global inlet to a collection region that directs the particle to the local outlet. An advantage of such an apparatus can be the expanded versatility of the nanoscale deterministic lateral displacement array for sample preparation applications involving nanoparticles not accessible to other higher throughput microscale microfluidic technologies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Joshua T. Smith, Benjamin Wunsch, Stacey Gifford
  • Patent number: 10918568
    Abstract: Systems, apparatus and methods for providing air and water to hot tub jets. The present teachings include jet assemblies, manifold assemblies, and related components, as well as methods of assembling hot tubs involving these components. In some cases, the present teachings describe the use of dual extrusion tubing to route air and water through adjacent, connected fluid conduits. In some cases, the present teachings describe a “press-and-click” method of connecting various components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: WEXCO INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Scott Stephen Backer
  • Patent number: 10865887
    Abstract: There is provided a valve assembly, the valve assembly including a body (8) in which there is housed at least one valve ball (22, 24), a movement assembly (32, 34) for moving the ball between closed and open positions with respect to a channel which passes through the body. At respective ends of the valve body there is provided sealing means (38) including a valve seat, biasing means to bias the valve seat towards contact with the ball, and at least one annular member engaged with the valve body to retain the valve seat, biasing means and at least one ball in the valve body and form a modular unit. Positioned in the valve body outwardly of each of the sealing means, there is provided a fitting means (50) engaged with the valve body and the form of the fitting means is selected and fitted to the modular unit independently of the said at least one annular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: ALCO VALVES GROUP LIMITED
    Inventors: David Wild, Andrew Crabtree
  • Patent number: 10862142
    Abstract: A flow rate adjustment structure includes: a fixed member including a fixed surface on which a fixed opening is formed; a movable member including a movable surface on which a movable opening is formed, and to be displaced relative to the fixed member; and an adjustment unit that variably adjusts an overlap area or an overlap frequency between the fixed opening and the movable opening by relatively displacing the movable surface along the fixed surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuji Okamura, Hideo Numata, Makoto Hattori
  • Patent number: 10767767
    Abstract: A drain petcock having a central channel for drainage, a side wall aperture for draining, and a closing plug that both closes the central channel and overlies the side wall aperture. The partial removal of the closing plug enables a controlled flow for initial draining. A full removal of the closing plug enables a more controlled flow through the central channel for further draining.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: RB Distribution, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Lawrence LoCastro, Charles Bowman
  • Patent number: 10689210
    Abstract: A microfabricated sheath flow structure for producing a sheath flow includes a primary sheath flow channel for conveying a sheath fluid, a sample inlet for injecting a sample into the sheath fluid in the primary sheath flow channel, a primary focusing region for focusing the sample within the sheath fluid and a secondary focusing region for providing additional focusing of the sample within the sheath fluid. The secondary focusing region may be formed by a flow channel intersecting the primary sheath flow channel to inject additional sheath fluid into the primary sheath flow channel from a selected direction. A sheath flow system may comprise a plurality of sheath flow structures operating in parallel on a microfluidic chip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: CYTONOME/ST, LLC
    Inventors: John R. Gilbert, Manish Deshpande, Bernard Bunner
  • Patent number: 10610677
    Abstract: A connector-with-integrated-check-valve for minimizing microbial migration to catheter-tubing is formed from three parts: a connector-for-catheter-tubing that is hollow and with an internal valve seat; an elastomer disc shaped gate; and a connector-for-extension-tubing that is hollow and with support-surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Inventor: Celeste V. Bonham
  • Patent number: 10442125
    Abstract: An injection mold that has an injector mold plate with a first injector mold plate face and an opposite second injector mold plate face, an ejector mold plate having a first ejector mold plate face and an opposite second ejector mold plate face, with the first injector mold plate face faces the first ejector mold plate face, at least one tempering medium channel connecting a tempering medium inlet of the injection mold to a tempering medium outlet of the injection mold, wherein the at least one tempering medium channel traverses an area of at least one of the second injector mold plate face and/or the second ejector mold plate face and defines a free opening in the respective mold plate face along at least a length of the at least one tempering medium channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2019
    Assignee: PLASTICS UNBOUND GMBH
    Inventors: Olof Franksson, Robert Axelsson
  • Patent number: 10384000
    Abstract: A device for managing fluid is provided. The device includes: a drip chamber including: an inlet; and outlet; a check valve positioned between the inlet and the outlet, the check valve configured for managing fluid flowing between the inlet and the outlet; and an elastic element. The combination of the check valve and the elastic element limits the extent to which the one way valve may be opened by brief transient pressures appearing at the outlet of the drip chamber. This limiting effect improves the accuracy of fluid delivery in setups such as ‘piggyback’ or Secondary Mode infusions of two fluids using a single pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: CareFusion 303, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Dwaine Butterfield
  • Patent number: 10232372
    Abstract: A technique relates to an integrated nanofluidic device. A loading layer includes an inlet channel reservoir, a diverted fraction reservoir, and a passed fraction reservoir. A sorting layer is attached to the loading layer such that fluid is permitted to communicate between the loading and sorting layers, where the sorting layer includes a bank of sorting elements. The sorting layer has inlet channels and outlet channels connected to the sorting elements, and the inlet channel reservoir is connected to the inlet channels by an inlet feed hole. The diverted fraction reservoir is connected to the outlet channels by a diverted fraction outlet feed hole, and the passed fraction reservoir is connected to the sorting elements by passed fraction feed holes. The passed fraction feed holes are respectively connected to the sorting elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Joshua T. Smith, Benjamin H. Wunsch, Cornelia T. Yang
  • Patent number: 10195469
    Abstract: A directional valve for a fire suppression system comprises a valve member for controlling the discharge of fire suppression agent. The valve member comprises: a blocking portion to provide a closed setting for the fire suppression agent; a first orifice to provide a fully open setting for the fire suppression agent; and a second orifice to provide a restricted opening setting in which discharge of fire suppression agent is restricted. The valve member is configured so that during activation of the directional valve from a closed setting, the first orifice follows the blocking portion and precedes the second orifice in order to provide a fully open setting followed by a restricted opening setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: KIDDE GRAVINER LIMITED
    Inventors: Stuart M. Smith, Paul A. Rennie, Josephine G. Gatsonides
  • Patent number: 10105282
    Abstract: Systems, apparatus and methods for providing air and water to hot tub jets. The present teachings include jet assemblies, manifold assemblies, and related components, as well as methods of assembling hot tubs involving these components. In some cases, the present teachings describe the use of dual extrusion tubing to route air and water through adjacent, connected fluid conduits. In some cases, the present teachings describe a “press-and-click” method of connecting various components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: Marquis Corp.
    Inventors: Samuel Jeffery Collins, Daniel Jacob Kroll, Scott Stephen Backer
  • Patent number: 9976461
    Abstract: A particulate filter for a motor vehicle has a casing (2) that allows through flow. A core (4) is accommodated in the casing (2) and allows through flow. The casing (2) has a longitudinal axis (3). A through flow duct (9) is formed between the casing (2) and the core (4) to allow the through flow of exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine of the motor vehicle. A ring (7) is arranged in the through flow duct (9) and gives the through flow duct (9) a labyrinth-type configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Lukas Henseler
  • Patent number: 9833782
    Abstract: A technique relates to an integrated nanofluidic device. A loading layer includes an inlet channel reservoir, a diverted fraction reservoir, and a passed fraction reservoir. A sorting layer is attached to the loading layer such that fluid is permitted to communicate between the loading and sorting layers, where the sorting layer includes a bank of sorting elements. The sorting layer has inlet channels and outlet channels connected to the sorting elements, and the inlet channel reservoir is connected to the inlet channels by an inlet feed hole. The diverted fraction reservoir is connected to the outlet channels by a diverted fraction outlet feed hole, and the passed fraction reservoir is connected to the sorting elements by passed fraction feed holes. The passed fraction feed holes are respectively connected to the sorting elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Joshua T. Smith, Benjamin H. Wunsch, Cornelia T. Yang
  • Patent number: 9803901
    Abstract: Gas vaporizer for flashing liquid to vapor received from a source prior to introduction into a compressor or the like, such as in air conditioning or refrigeration systems. In certain embodiments the vaporize includes an adapter member for connection to a liquid source, a connector member having a plurality of flow passages for facilitating the transfer of heat to fluid present therein to vaporize the same, a body portion providing visual access such as via one or more sight glasses to an internal chamber therein for visual confirmation that liquid has been vaporized, and a hose connecting member for connection to a point of destination such as a compressor. In certain embodiments, the connector has an axial bore containing a high thermal conductive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: Uniweld Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David S. Pearl, II, Dragon Bukur, David Foster, Douglas B. Pearl
  • Patent number: 9500294
    Abstract: An apparatus for overriding a valve actuator to move a valve stem to a second position includes an override body with a central axis. A piston is located within the override body. A bushing is non-rotatably carried within the override body. An override shaft is in threaded engagement with the bushing and extends through a sealed orifice in the override body. Fluid pressure applied to the piston causes the bushing to engage the valve actuator and push the valve stem, and alternatively, rotation applied to the override shaft causes the bushing to move linearly to engage the valve actuator and push the valve stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: GE Oil & Gas Pressure Control LP
    Inventors: Christopher Taylor Herman, Mark Anthony Viator, Keith Adams, Fauad Saleem
  • Patent number: 9468236
    Abstract: An inflatable bra having a bladder in each cup, and a switchable valve built into the bra for allowing the bladders to be inflated one at a time, or together. A separate handheld pump can be connected to the switchable valve for inflating each bladder, or deflating each bladder. A control band is attached under each bra cup and spans the gore of the bra to maintain the bra cups from spreading apart, and a mesh material provides a stiffening agent in each bra cup to counteract bulging of the bra at the locations of the bladders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Inventor: Raymond C. Sherry
  • Patent number: 9457314
    Abstract: A fluid separation apparatus is described, including a casing and a separation module. The casing includes a mixed fluid inlet, a separated fluid outlet through which a selectively separated fluid is discharged, and a residual fluid outlet. The separation module has a set of serially arranged separation elements disposed therein and is insertable into the casing from an end of the casing. The separation module includes a first connection jig disposed between adjacent separation elements, second connection jigs disposed at two ends of the set of serially arranged separation elements, and a coupling jig coupling the first and the second connection jigs to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: JGC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Syuichi Oguro, Nobuhiro Yamada, Yasushi Fujimura
  • Patent number: 9037281
    Abstract: In the method and apparatus of the invention, the process point is taken into account when the condition and performance of a control valve are monitored. In the condition monitoring of the valve, process measurements are used in addition to measurements inside the valve in such a manner that the process measurements identify the operating point at which the valve operates, and the measurements inside the valve are observed at these operating points to detect changes and to determine the condition of the valve. According to an aspect of the invention, the variables representing the operating point of an industrial process are considered when changes in the friction load of the valve and/or the load factor of the actuator are observed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: METSO FLOW CONTROL OY
    Inventors: Jouni Pyötsiä{umlaut over ( )}, Harri Cederlöf, Mats Friman
  • Publication number: 20150107705
    Abstract: A poppet valve assembly is provided for use on a fuel tanker truck which enables the truck's driver to determine whether fuel is present in the valve assembly. The valve assembly has a housing which has a sight glass secured therein. The sight glass is visible through cut-outs in the housing. If the driver observes liquid in the valve assembly, the driver may drain the valve assembly to avoid spilling the liquid prior to opening the poppet valve assembly. When the poppet valve assembly is opened, vapor flows through a flow channel in the poppet valve assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: Dixon Valve and Coupling Company
    Inventor: Richard L. Fahl
  • Patent number: 8985048
    Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus and method for visual identification of valves in multi valve distribution and transmission systems, and particularly for municipal utility infrastructures such as mainline, connection, drain, pressure district, pressure regulating and pressure sustaining valves. In an embodiment, color coded valve box inserts are made to specifications, inserted and secured into place at the opening of multiple valve boxes to easily and accurately identify the different types or sizes of valves. Each color represents a different type or size of valve, as established by the municipality. A color coding chart identifying the different types or sizes of valves may be placed at each point of access to the valves to assist in identification of the different types of valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventors: Michael Perin, Jeremy Leyland Hunt
  • Publication number: 20150047715
    Abstract: A valve assembly for use in a fuel dispensing system is provided. More particularly, a valve assembly is provided having a body defining a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, with a channel extending therebetween for a flow of fluid. The valve assembly also includes a test port extending from the valve body and defining a downstream end. The test port is in fluid communication with the channel of the valve body. Additionally, a test port valve is included positioned upstream from the downstream end of the test port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventor: James C. Foster
  • Publication number: 20150013791
    Abstract: A valve body in a passage of a housing connected to a through hole in a sealed machine casing can allow an inspection apparatus into an interior of the casing when open, and prevents fluid flow through the passage when closed. Seals can engage the inspection apparatus to prevent fluid flow through the passage during inspection or inspection apparatus movement. A guide conduit in the casing can include branches and can guide the inspection apparatus to multiple inspection sites. Guide marks can identify the branches to assist with navigation within the casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Daniel Lawrence Banowetz, Jordan Christopher Baker, Thomas James Batzinger, Anthony James George, Ronald Irving Longwell, Matthew Peter Scoffone, Daniel David Soloway
  • Patent number: 8915265
    Abstract: A double-walled above-ground storage tank includes a primary tank and a secondary tank, and an interstitial space; an containment chamber formed by a primary chamber wall and a secondary chamber wall, forming a chamber interstitial space therebetween, and an exterior door assembly; and at least one pipe and valve assembly wherein the pipe originates in the tank interior volume and the valve is disposed within the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Envirovault Corporation
    Inventor: Russ Hebblethwaite
  • Publication number: 20140318645
    Abstract: A microfluidic chip having a micro channel for processing a sample is provided. The micro channel may focus the sample by using focusing fluid and a core stream forming geometry. The core stream forming geometry may include a lateral fluid focusing component and one or more vertical fluid focusing components. A microfluidic chip may include a plurality micro channels operating in parallel on a microfluidic chip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: CYTONOME/ST, LLC
    Inventors: Erin Koksal, Johnathan Charles Sharpe, Kristopher Scott Buchanan, Blair D. Morad
  • Patent number: 8863767
    Abstract: A valve assembly, including a seat and a flapper complementarily formed with respect to the seat for creating a seal at an interface therebetween. At least one shim is operatively disposed in the valve assembly for altering a position of the flapper relative to the seat in at least one direction for aligning the flapper and the seat at the interface. A method of aligning the flapper and seat of a valve assembly is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Wade A. Miller, Robert J. Dyer, Michael L. Hair, Thomas S. Myerley, Leonard D. Medill, Matthew P. Presley
  • Publication number: 20140290763
    Abstract: Force control system. The system includes a first pair of permanent magnets for providing a normal force on the wheel of a robot adapted for n-pipe inspections. A second pair of magnets is provided with opposite polarity so that a rotor containing magnets may be rotated with a minimum of torque required and therefore with a minimum of energy expended.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Changrak Choi, Dimitrios Chatzigeorgiou, Rached Ben-Mansour, Kamal Youcef-Toumi
  • Publication number: 20140287451
    Abstract: In accordance with the purpose(s) of the present disclosure, as embodied and broadly described herein, embodiments of the present disclosure, in one aspect, relate to a device (or “flow chamber”), methods of making a device, methods of using a device, and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: University of Florida Research Foundation, Incorporated
    Inventor: Peter S. McFetridge
  • Patent number: 8839815
    Abstract: A gas valve assembly may include an electronic valve controller secured relative to a valve body. The electronic controller may be configured to count each operational cycle of the gas valve and maintain a cumulative count of the number of operational cycles experienced by the gas valve in a memory, such as a non-volatile memory. In some cases, the non-volatile memory may also store one or more operational cycle threshold values that may be retrieved and compared to the cumulative count of the number of operational cycles experienced by the gas valve. In some instances, where the cumulative count of the number of operational cycles experienced by the gas valve meets and/or exceeds the threshold number of operational cycles, the gas valve may be prevented from opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Young, David Kucera, Donald J. Kasprzyk
  • Publication number: 20140182687
    Abstract: Embodiments of hybrid microfluidic assemblies comprise at least one microstructure that is formed of transparent material and is substantially free of non-transparent material and further comprise at least one microstructure that is formed of non-transparent material and is substantially free of transparent material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Inventors: Roland Guidat, Olivier Lobet, Paulo Gasper Jorge Marques, Pierre Woehl
  • Patent number: 8727316
    Abstract: A knife gate valve for specific environments comprises a knife valve with a body, a hand wheel, a yoke sleeve, a gland packing, a gland bushing, a stem, a wedge gate, seating surfaces and the like. All internal components of the device are provided with a high quality elastomeric liner. This surface is present on wetted surfaces such as body, seat and wedge surfaces exposed to the controlled material. This feature provides corrosion resistance, long life, and reduces leakage when compared to conventional valves. Its new style of internal design provides waterproof resistance for virtually types of industrial applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventors: Hong Yan Miao, Wanqiang Wang
  • Patent number: 8701693
    Abstract: A check valve includes a valve body having a valve seat, a diffuser, a disc coupled to the diffuser, and a compression spring. The diffuser is positioned inside the valve body and has a forward face. The disc is coupled to and movable relative to the diffuser and has an upstream face and a downstream face. The compression spring biases the disc into a normally open position during forward flow. A check valve apparatus further comprises at least one test bore through the valve member in communication with the disc. A method for testing the operation of a passive check valve is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Curtiss-Wright Flow Control Corp
    Inventors: Abraham Shelcoviz, Haykaz Mkrtchyan
  • Patent number: 8695641
    Abstract: A microfluidic probe head includes a first layer, a second layer, and a first tubing port extending from an upper face of the first layer. The first layer has a first via, enabling fluid communication between the first port and a lower face of the first layer. The second layer includes a first aperture on a face, and a first microchannel enabling fluid communication between an upper face of the second layer, facing the lower face of the first layer, and the first aperture. The head enables fluid communication between the first via and the first microchannel. At least a portion of the first microchannel is a groove open on the upper face of the second layer, closed by a portion of a lower face of a layer of the head. The probe head further comprises a second tubing port, a second via, a second aperture and a second microchannel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Emmanuel Delamarche, Ute Drechsler, Robert Lovchik
  • Patent number: 8695639
    Abstract: A micro fluidic probe head includes a first layer, a second layer, and a first tubing port extending from an upper face of the first layer. The first layer has a first via, enabling fluid communication between the first port and a lower face of the first layer. The second layer includes a first aperture on a face, and a first microchannel enabling fluid communication between an upper face of the second layer, facing the lower face of the first layer, and the first aperture. The head enables fluid communication between the first via and the first microchannel. At least a portion of the first microchannel is a groove open on the upper face of the second layer, closed by a portion of a lower face of a layer of the head. The probe head further comprises a second tubing port, a second via, a second aperture and a second micro channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Emmanuel Delamarche, Ute Drechsler, Robert Lovchik
  • Patent number: 8671971
    Abstract: An apparatus for indicating a leak in a beverage dispensing system and sealing a leak in a beverage dispensing system includes a deactivating means including a channel, a sealing ball, a sealing element and a reset means. The sealing ball and sealing element are located within the channel. When a leak is present, the sealing ball is moved from its resting position. Once the leak reaches a predetermined level, the sealing ball is pressed against the sealing element by the force of the gas in the chamber. This seals the chamber and prevents further gas flow through the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Meier
  • Patent number: 8636023
    Abstract: A fire suppression wet pipe system air vent assembly and method of venting air from a fire suppression wet pipe system includes providing a primary air vent valve having an inlet and an outlet. The primary air vent inlet is adapted to be connected with a fire suppression wet pipe system and is configured to vent air, but not water, from its outlet. A secondary air vent valve having an inlet and an outlet is provided. The secondary air vent valve is configured to vent air, but not water, from its outlet. A fluid conduit connects the primary air vent valve outlet with the secondary air vent valve inlet. The second air vent valve provides failsafe air venting upon the failure of the primary air vent valve. A fluid indicator may be provided that indicates the presence of fluid in the conduit. The presence of an appreciable amount of fluid in the conduit is an indication of likely failure of the primary air vent valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Engineered Corrosion Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: David J. Burkhart, Edward A. Schultz
  • Patent number: 8622058
    Abstract: A medical air tubing and anti-mismatch fluid distribution system is provided for preventing the inadvertent connection of a feed line to an incorrect source of fluid. The fluid distribution system includes an adapter that is connected permanently to the fluid supply and has an outlet end that is compatible with a coupling member on the feed line. The coupling member on the feed line is compatible with the adapter but is not compatible with the other coupling member of the second fluid supply. A feed line assembly includes a feed line with a connector fixed to a first end and a nebulizer or other medical device fixed to a second end to form a one piece, integrally formed unit. The second fluid supply can include an adapter that is different from the first adapter so that the coupling members of the feed lines are compatible only with the appropriate adapter for the desired fluid source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Respan Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerhard A. Hacke, Cornel C. Hacke
  • Patent number: 8622078
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for tapping into a pressurized multiple strings of coaxially situated tubulars for wells and/or platforms which have overturned wherein the tapping occurs underwater via a diver or remotely operated vehicle. The assembly includes a tapping tool connectable to the tubular via a saddle connection and an adjustable tapping clamp with adjustable support/locking feet, compression plate with view ports, and angularly adjustable hot tapping system, along with a drill/saw system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: TETRA Applied Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Harry McGraw, Leslie M. Bland, Daniel S. Bangert, Mark F. Gravouia, Rizal Masingkan
  • Patent number: 8616074
    Abstract: A fitting for inserting a pig into a pipeline. The fitting comprises a cast body having a first end for connecting to a first end of a pipeline and a second end for connecting to a second end of the pipeline. The cast body further comprises a third end arranged at a predetermined angle to the first and second end of the cast body. A retractable guide within the cast body can be at least partially inserted into a run portion of the cast body for delivery or retrieval of the pig.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Team Industrial Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John P. Kearns, Roel Delgado, Jr., Christian G. Larsen
  • Publication number: 20130340832
    Abstract: A valve assembly including a plurality of control systems. A member is included that is actuatable by each of the control systems for controlling operation of the valve assembly. A plurality of tangs is included with at least one tang corresponding to each control system. A plurality of windows each having a shoulder is included, each tang disposed in one of the windows and selectively engagable with the shoulder of the one of the windows. The tangs and the windows are operative together to enable actuation forces to be selectively transferred from any group of selected ones of the control systems to the member via the tangs and the shoulders of corresponding ones of the windows for actuating the member while simultaneously permitting relative movement between the windows and the tangs corresponding to unselected ones of the control systems. A method of operating a valve assembly is also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Donald Lauderdale
  • Publication number: 20130293886
    Abstract: In an arrangement to optically illuminate and/or to perform measurements in a sample stream through a flange which is arranged in the sample stream and closes off a hollow space against the sample stream, there is a continuous loss of material due to abrasion of wall particles, and the flange therefore has to be exchanged on a regular basis. The invention has the purpose of reducing the wear on the flange. To meet this objective, a part of the wall extending along a closed loop around the hollow space (3) consists of an elastomeric body (2.3). This concept makes it possible for the flange or at least for a part of the flange to elastically back away under a concentrated load. Thus, the rate of abrasion of the wall by the sample stream is reduced, because a large part of the incoming energy is converted to heat in the elastomeric body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: CARL ZEISS MICROSCOPY GMBH
    Inventors: Nico Correns, Marion Sobe
  • Patent number: 8566989
    Abstract: A clothing treating apparatus and a method of controlling such an apparatus are provided. The clothing treating apparatus may make use of a draining function which may be automatically or manually performed after determining whether or not water received in a detachable water supply tank may be re-used or not.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Hea Kyung Yoo, Dae Yun Park, Jong Seok Kim, Dong Won Kim, Sog Kie Hong
  • Publication number: 20130240051
    Abstract: A valve assembly, including a seat and a flapper complementarily formed with respect to the seat for creating a seal at an interface therebetween. At least one shim is operatively disposed in the valve assembly for altering a position of the flapper relative to the seat in at least one direction for aligning the flapper and the seat at the interface. A method of aligning the flapper and seat of a valve assembly is also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Wade A. Miller, Robert J. Dyer, Michael L. Hair, Thomas S. Myerley, Leonard D. Medill, Matthew P. Presley