Combined Patents (Class 137/560)
  • Patent number: 6708710
    Abstract: A fluid transfer system includes elongated conduits connected at one end with couplings to a plurality of fluid reservoirs of a machine or engine and at the other end with a control valve for selective quick evacuation. Evacuation is powered by a pump operably connected to the control valve. Another embodiment includes a first pump for the evacuation of an engine oil reservoir and a second pump for the selective evacuation of transmission and hydraulic fluid reservoirs. The control valve and the pumps may be operated remotely through electrical switches on brackets or on a service panel. Associated methods of removing fluids and replacing fluids from a plurality of reservoirs includes coupling the fluid transfer system to the reservoirs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: RPM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: John Apostolides
  • Publication number: 20040045609
    Abstract: A fluid transfer system includes elongated conduits connected at one end with Couplings to a plurality of fluid reservoirs of a machine or engine and at the other end with a Control valve for selective quick evacuation. Evacuation is powered by a pump operably connected to the control valve. Another embodiment includes a first pump for the evacuation of an engine oil reservoir and a second pump for the selective evacuation of transmission and hydraulic fluid reservoirs. The control valve and the pumps may be operated remotely through electrical switches on brackets or on a service panel. Associated methods of removing fluids and replacing fluids from a plurality of reservoirs includes coupling the fluid transfer system to the reservoirs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: John Apostolides
  • Patent number: 6681800
    Abstract: A control means which possesses an electrical control unit having a bus connection, electronic circuitry and at least one electrical output. On the latter a valve is connection by means of cooperating connection means, said valve serving for the control of fluid flows, the two connection means providing for both electrical contact and also fixation of the valve in place. Furthermore, an electrically actuated valve is provided by the invention, which is held in place exclusively by a single connection means on a control unit and is provided with electrical plug contact means, which render possible connection with such electrical plug contact means of the electronic control unit, whose plug contact elements are arranged in quicunx.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Festo AG & Co.
    Inventors: Manfred Rüdle, Michael Berner
  • Patent number: 6682001
    Abstract: A coating material color changer includes multiple modules. Each module includes a body constructed from an electrically non-conductive material, such as an insulative resin or polymer, and a plate coupled to the body and constructed from, for example, stainless steel. Each plate includes at least one of a receptacle for receiving an electrically non-insulative contact and an electrically non-insulative contact oriented to be received in such a receptacle when multiple modules are coupled together in a coating material color changer to couple the plates of the modules of the coating material color changer together electrically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Diana
  • Patent number: 6575194
    Abstract: An arrangement for passing an electrical signal between first and second areas includes a body disposable between the first and second areas and having an aperture. A first sleeve is at least partially disposed in the aperture and defines a first opening. A second sleeve is also at least partially disposed in the aperture and defines a second opening. The arrangement further includes an electrically conductive element having a first portion disposed in the first opening, and a second portion disposed in the second opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Dynetek Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Gary Wayne Miller, Thomas Dean Barker, Garth James Schultz, Stephen Alan Carter
  • Patent number: 6561219
    Abstract: A portable fluid transfer conduit is disclosed having an elongated flexible conduit having an inlet and outlet port. A coupling is postured at the inlet port for receiving fluid from a fluid source such as prelubrication pump. A flow control member is located at the discharge end which includes an activator for controlling the flow of fluid. The flow control member may include a handheld pump where the fluid source does not have a powered flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: RPM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: John K. Apostolides
  • Patent number: 6513547
    Abstract: Substrates, in each of which all or parts of electronic parts including IC for communication are carried in a form of bare chip, are mounted on solenoid-operated valves attached onto manifold blocks for constructing a solenoid-operated valve manifold. Accordingly, it is possible to miniaturize the solenoid-operated valve manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: SMC Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Katsuhisa Endo, Koichiro Gemma
  • Publication number: 20020174900
    Abstract: The liquid distributor (1) for columns (6) has a main passage (2), a plurality of secondary passages (3) and an outflow system (5) of the main passage. The liquid (4) to be distributed can be fed into the secondary0 passages in accordance with a pre-set ratio by this outflow system. The outflow system (5) comprises apertures (20) in the side walls of the main passage and—associated with the secondary passages—guide elements (50) for the liquid (41) exiting through the apertures. The guide elements are designed with respect to a liquid guidance such that the liquid (42) can be led into the associated secondary passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Applicant: Sulzer Chemtech AG
    Inventors: Emil Fehr, Adrian Faust, Markus Fischer
  • Patent number: 6443178
    Abstract: The present application is a molding service station for providing accessories utilized in the casting production which includes a sturdy weighted pedestal base, at least a first panel and second panel spaced apart for holding the various accessories and equipment. A column connects the panel to the pedestal base. The molding service station includes an electric power source, a compressed air source and natural gas source all used in the casting process. The panels are constructed in the form of a lattice allowing various hooks and other holding means to be easily attached and removed from various locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Lakshimi P. Gupta
  • Publication number: 20020108656
    Abstract: An arrangement for passing an electrical signal between first and second areas includes a body disposable between the first and second areas and having an aperture. A first sleeve is at least partially disposed in the aperture and defines a first opening. A second sleeve is also at least partially disposed in the aperture and defines a second opening. The arrangement further includes an electrically conductive element having a first portion disposed in the first opening, and a second portion disposed in the second opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventors: Gary Wayne Miller, Thomas Dean Barker, Garth James Schultz, Stephen Alan Carter
  • Patent number: 6328223
    Abstract: A paint sprayer having an on/off switch, a bypass valve and a pressure adjusting valve has a single manually rotatable control that operates the switch, the bypass valve and the pressure adjusting valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Campbell Hausfeld/Scott Fetzer Company
    Inventors: Brian Douglas Holt, Brian Linton Frost
  • Patent number: 6308732
    Abstract: To seal an electrical wire and prevent fluid flow therethrough, individual strands of the wire are deformed and bonded together to provide a short segment of essentially solid wire without any gaps or flow paths through this segment. Desirably, the solid wire segment may be provided at the point in the wire where the wire passes through a wall of a sealed container, such as a fuel tank, to prevent fluid leakage out of the fuel tank through the wire. In the preferred embodiment, the individual strands of the wire are deformed and bonded together by ultrasonic welding of a section of the wire having its insulation removed. Other methods, such as coining, and laser or electron beam welding can be used to provide the essentially solid wire segment which prevents fluid leakage through the wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Walbro Corporation
    Inventor: James A. Herndon
  • Patent number: 6305416
    Abstract: Hydraulic actuator. An actuator body includes an inlet, an outlet, a port communicating with a pre-charged diaphragm tank, and a port communicating with a pressure switch. The actuator body includes a movable member which, in a first position, closes the inlet port and provides fluidic communication with the pressure switch port while allowing pressure equalization between the inlet and an interior of the actuator body. In a second position, the movable body opens the inlet port and seals the pressure switch port. A spring is disposed within the actuator body to urge the movable member toward the first position. The invention eliminates the need for multiple springs as shown in one prior art design and eliminates the need for reliance on a hydrostatic force differential to move the movable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Flexcon Industries
    Inventors: Fred Snel, Stefan Beekhuis, Wolf Joerg, Robert Lombari
  • Publication number: 20010027813
    Abstract: Substrates, in each of which all or parts of electronic parts including IC for communication are carried in a form of bare chip, are mounted on solenoid-operated valves attached onto manifold blocks for constructing a solenoid-operated valve manifold. Accordingly, it is possible to miniaturize the solenoid-operated valve manifold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: October 11, 2001
    Inventors: Katsuhisa Endo, Koichiro Gemma
  • Patent number: 6286546
    Abstract: A dual seal system for retrofitting existing vapor deposition apparatus for starter tubes has a first tubular member which surrounds the chemical vapor delivery tube and forms a channel therewith for passage of starter tube gases to a stationary seal coupling member which, in turn, is connected to monitoring apparatus. A second tubular member surrounds the first tubular member and forms a passage therewith extending from behind a seal assembly in the starter tube to a bore in the coupling member connected to a buffer gas supply. The second tubular member also forms a third passageway with the interior wall of the arbor driving the starter tube and is held spaced therefrom by a perforated support member. The third passageway extends from a region behind the sealing system to a sealed buffer chamber in the coupling member, which is connected to a low pressure of vacuum source and to a pressure monitoring member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Michael Mueller
  • Publication number: 20010009165
    Abstract: A valve comprising a valve carrier on which a plurality of control units are mounted adjacent to one another. Each control unit possesses a liquid-tight casing body in which the coomponent of a valve unit are received and is mounted on the valve carrier with a seal in between. It is in this manner that a liquid-tight, encapsulated and individual accommodation of the singular valve units is ensured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Publication date: July 26, 2001
    Inventors: Frank Notz, Thomas Mller
  • Patent number: 6227241
    Abstract: Hydraulic actuator. An actuator body includes an inlet, an outlet, a port communicating with a pre-charged diaphragm tank, and a port communicating with a pressure switch. The actuator body includes a movable member which, in a first position, closes the inlet port and provides fluidic communication with the pressure switch port while allowing pressure equalization between the inlet and an interior of the actuator body. In a second position, the movable body opens the inlet port and seals the pressure switch port. A spring is disposed within the actuator body to urge the movable member toward the first position. The invention eliminates the need for multiple springs as shown in one prior art design and eliminates the need for reliance on a hydrostatic force differential to move the movable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Flexcon Industries
    Inventors: Fred Snel, Stefan Beekhuis, Wolf Joerg
  • Patent number: 6216738
    Abstract: A valve arrangement comprising at least one valve unit having several electrically operated valves, such unit possessing a bus station adapted to be connected with a serial bus controlled by a central station, the bus station being connected via control lines with electrical drives of the valves. The bus station comprises at least one serial connection adapted to be connected via a connecting cable with a serial/parallel converter of at least one further valve unit and/or at least one input module for the detection of sensor signals, the serial/parallel converter being connected via control lines with the electrical drives of the valves of this at least one further valve unit for the operation of the electrical drives of such valves by the bus station and/or via sensor lines with the sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Festo AG & Co.
    Inventors: Dieter Ruckwied, Christian Waldeck
  • Patent number: 6216740
    Abstract: A plurality of manifold blocks connected together in a combined state have a plurality of solenoid valves for controlling a fluid pressure device by switching channels and at least one relay unit for controlling an electrical device by a relay that is opened and closed installed thereon, so that the manifold-type solenoid valve is assembled on the relay unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Bunya Hayashi, Makoto Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 6216732
    Abstract: A portable fluid transfer conduit is disclosed having an elongated flexible conduit having an inlet and outlet port. A coupling is postured at the inlet port for receiving fluid from a fluid source such as prelubrication pump. A flow control member is located at the discharge end which includes an activator for controlling the flow of fluid. The flow control member may include a portable pump where the fluid source does not have a powered flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: RPM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: John K. Apostolides
  • Patent number: 6213153
    Abstract: Simple adaptation to change in the number of terminals in a serial unit or the like is made possible in controlling a plurality of solenoid valves by a solenoid valve manifold. An electric circuit section of a connected manifold block 2 having solenoid valves 1 mounted thereon is constructed by electrically connecting, with a wiring on a printed wiring board 34, a multiple-pole male connector 35 disposed on one connecting surface of the manifold block, a multiple-pole female connector 36 disposed on the other connecting surface, and an electric power supplying connector 37 connected to an electric power receiving connector 14 of the solenoid valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Bunya Hayashi, Shinji Miyazoe, Shinichi Yoshimura
  • Patent number: 6173731
    Abstract: An electrofluidic modular system (1) is made up of modules which are secured to a bar (5) and may be mounted one after the other, in particular fluidic modules (9) having collecting channels (10, 11, 12) for actuator ports (26, 27, 28), electric modules (7) including bus terminals (8) and electric terminals (44) for actuators (15), and function modules (30). Two interface modules (18, 19) each have on one connecting side (23) a first connecting configuration with electric (8) and fluidic (10, 11, 12) terminals and with a contour (24) which are adapted to the modules (7, 9) of the modular system (1), and have on the opposite connecting side (22) a second connecting configuration which is different from the first and has electric (25) terminals and a contour (20) which are adapted to modules (2, 3) of a modular system of a different provider secured to the same bar (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Burkert Werke GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Martin Ottliczky
  • Patent number: 6148862
    Abstract: A valve bank has a coil pack assembly with multiple solenoid coils bound to one another by a single resin body. An L-shaped magnetic (but not magnetized) bracket is also bound within the body and extends between upper pole pieces of the valves and the manifold in which the valves are mounted. A retainer plate holds the valves in the manifold, and helps complete the magnetic flux path circuit from the manifold end of the bracket to the lower pole pieces of the valves. A spring clip helps position the manifold end of the bracket close to the retainer plate. A circuit board for individually energizing the coils is also potted within the resin body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Applied Power Inc.
    Inventor: Robert A. Doll
  • Patent number: 6148855
    Abstract: A valve control unit includes a housing and an electronic circuit disposed therein for controlling valve coils mountable on valves, the housing being formed as a conductor track carrier for carrying the electronic circuit, and conductor tracks carried by the housing, the conductor tracks having contacts for making electrical contact with corresponding opposing contacts of the valve coils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Hans Rauner, Johannes Schoettl
  • Patent number: 6109298
    Abstract: A sealing article 17 is provided in the opening edge of a depression 2c provided in a manifold 2 to connect a supply connector 16 and a receiving connector 44 in an air-tight manner. A solenoid section 33, in which a solenoid 31 in each of pilot valve 21a and 21b and a receiving connector 44 that supplies power to connector 31 are sealed into a synthetic resin 45, is provided in a transfer valve 3A. Solenoid section 33 has a lamp circuit board 49 mounted on its outer surface to receive power from receiving connector 44, and includes power supply indicator lamps 48; and a cover 50, covering the whole of lamp circuit board 49, mounted to form an air-tight seal on its outer surface via a gasket 52.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Ryushiro Kaneko, Makoto Ishikawa, Masaru Narita
  • Patent number: 6041816
    Abstract: The present invention provides a terminal box that enables wirings for solenoid-operated valves mounted on manifolds to be achieved simply and safely without causing leads to be entangled or causing an open circuit. In a terminal box body 4 consisting of a box-shaped housing 6 and a cover 7 that can be mounted to or detached from the front surface of the housing, a terminal block 5 is accommodated so as to move forward and backward. The lower end of the cover 7 is connected to the terminal block 5 using connection shafts 29 in such a way that the cover 7 can rotate. When the cover 7 is opened by being brought down forward, the connection shafts 29 are used as supporting points, and the terminal block 5 can be moved into and out from the housing using the open cover 7.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuo Hiramatsu, Makoto Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 6035891
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved system and apparatus for providing emergency breathing air upon the failure or disconnect of a primary air source in a hostile environment. The invention comprises a compressed air source interconnected with a primary pressurized system which automatically engages when the primary air system falls below a predefined pressure range and isolates the secondary system from the primary system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventors: Albert D. Hawkins, Jr., Steven J. Herberholt
  • Patent number: 5996610
    Abstract: A solenoid-operated valve assembly is configured in such a way that one of multiple receiving connectors 4A and 4B of different forms is attached to a first end block 2a via the corresponding one of holders 5A and 5B having the same mounting mechanism, thereby enabling either the receiving connector 4A or 4B to be selectively attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: SMC Corportion
    Inventors: Hideharu Sato, Ryushiro Kaneko, Shinji Miyazoe
  • Patent number: 5941282
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an electromagnetic valve unit, which includes a housing for defining therein a first chamber and a second chamber separated by a wall member having at least a communication hole, and a plurality of electromagnetic valves each having at least a terminal. At least a part of each electromagnetic valve is mounted in the first chamber. A circuit board for mounting thereon an electronic control element for controlling the electromagnetic valves is mounted in the second chamber. The valve unit further includes a conductive member, one end portion of which is connected with each terminal of the electromagnetic valves, and the other end portion of which is connected with the circuit board through the communication hole of the wall member. And, a seal member such as a resilient grommet is provided for holding the conductive member in the communication hole of the wall member to provide a seal therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignees: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha, Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Masao Suzuki, Takao Tsunooka, Yoshimichi Hara, Shinichi Shimono
  • Patent number: 5937898
    Abstract: A valve assembly having solenoid valves mounted on a manifold or block for, upon energization, controlling flow in selected passages. A bus frame of overmolded bus strips has portions of the strips exposed for connection directly to the solenoids. A pressure switch capsule is received in a ported cavity in the manifold or block and located such that a snap disk on the pressure switch contacts exposed surfaces of end portions of two of the bus strips for completing a circuit responsive to sensed pressure in the block cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Carl G. Gluf, Jr., Larry P. Bennett, John A. Ness
  • Patent number: 5918629
    Abstract: By disposing, at that position of a manifold base 2 that has a solenoid valve 3 mounted thereon that allows external operations, an electric switch 12 for interrupting the power supply to the loaded solenoid valve 3, the solenoid valve 3 can be disconnected from the power supply at the solenoid-valve installation site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Bunya Hayashi, Makoto Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 5895027
    Abstract: A solenoid unit includes a plurality of solenoid valves having respective valve bodies for attachment with a main casing of an automatic transmission and a case equipped with the solenoid valves in a manner that the solenoid valves can be installed in the main casing collectively. In the unit, the wiring for the solenoid valves has been completed in the casing prior to assembling the unit to the automatic transmission unit. With the arrangement mentioned above, if only attaching the solenoid unit to the main casing, it is possible to assemble the valve bodies of the solenoid valves to the main casing with a predetermined arrangement. Further, since the wiring for the solenoid valves has been already completed in the case, it is possible to omit the post-operation, such as soldering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventor: Sakai Yagi
  • Patent number: 5797590
    Abstract: A piston valve for liquids provides potential isolation between an inlet-side and an outlet-side liquid. The piston valve is suitable, in particular, for controlling water-based paints in painting appliances which operate by electrostatic charging. At least one control electrode which is at the electric potential of the liquid present at the outlet of the valve is provided in order to improve the service life of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: ABB Research Ltd.
    Inventors: Gunter Borner, Jorg Sopka
  • Patent number: 5699830
    Abstract: The present invention provides a solenoid valve controller with simple arrangement, by which it is possible to easily check connecting conditions and operating conditions of solenoid valves. Between a plurality of solenoid valves 11 intensively installed and a serial unit 2 for performing on-off control of each of the solenoid valves according to a control signal from the controller, a switch unit 3 having a plurality of manual switches 30a to 30n to match each of the solenoid valves 11 is connected, and it is designed that each of the manual switches can be switched over to a first switching position to connect the solenoid valves 11 to output terminals 21a to 21n of the serial unit and to a second switching position to connect the solenoid valves to power terminals 20a and 20b.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Bunya Hayashi, Keisuke Shimauchi
  • Patent number: 5662143
    Abstract: A modular gas box system comprises a series of modules that each connect into upper and lower manifolds that distribute reactive and purge gases through weldments and monoblock valves. A motherboard distributes power, control signals, and pneumatics air to all the plug-in modules. Environmental modules provide vent and purge lines to the process' reaction chambers. An embedded microcomputer manages in situ system and safety diagnostics for each and every module that has been assigned a motherboard address. Each gas module 24 is easy to remove and replace and the pneumatics control motherboard integrates pneumatics distribution, analog-to-digital converters, device controllers and support electronics. Gas module 24s include digital mass flow controllers, analog and digital pressure switches and transducers, gas filters and pneumatic valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Assignees: Gasonics International, MKS Instruments, Inc.
    Inventor: James W. Caughran
  • Patent number: 5616965
    Abstract: Apparatus for controlling and adjusting an arbitrary number of adjustment units for a motor vehicle includes an electro-pneumatic bus to which are connected in arbitrary sequence, both electrically and pneumatically, all the pertinent adjusting units. The electro-pneumatic bus is composed of at least one pneumatic adjustment pressure line and of at least one electric control signal line which may contain several conductors. While reference data from a central control electronics are applied through the electric control signal line of the electro-pneumatic bus, the individual adjusting units are connected through associated valves in the pneumatic system to the pneumatic adjustment pressure line of the electro-pneumatic bus. The adjusting units preferably are designed to be modular control loops. As a result the pneumatically driven adjusting members units not only two positions, but also they may be set and controlled in quasi-analogue manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Assignees: WOCO Franz-Josef Wolf & Co., Alcatel SEL Aktiengesellschaft, Mercedes-Benz AG
    Inventors: Franz J. Wolf, Uwe Reichert, Walter Decker, Frank Demling, Andrew Ogrissek, Dieter Feichtiger, Martin Lindmayer, Dieter Heinle
  • Patent number: 5611372
    Abstract: In an arrangement of solenoid valves, a central plug and a printed circuit board on a control housing of a shift device of a toothed-wheel variable-speed gearbox, the printed circuit board which secures the central plug via a receptacle is clamped in directly on the control housing with the involvement of retainers for the solenoid valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1997
    Assignees: Mercedes-Benz AG, Leopold Kostal GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Ludwig Bauer, Jurgen Semler, Martin Krohn, Franz Schlitzer
  • Patent number: 5583327
    Abstract: The apparatus, which controls the operation and speed of an electrical blower motor and the operation of a vacuum operated recirculation control device, comprises a vacuum switch combined with an electrical switch having a rotary shaft and fixed and movable contacts whereby rotation of the shaft controls the operation and speed of the blower motor. The shaft is pushable rearwardly and is spring-biased forwardly for operating the vacuum switch whereby vacuum is selectively supplied to the recirculation control device for switching between outside air and recirculation of air. A push-push latching mechanism is provided for alternately latching the vacuum switch in one position and releasing the vacuum switch for return movement to its other position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Indak Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventor: Charles E. Black, III
  • Patent number: 5566711
    Abstract: A combined control and regulating valve (1) having a housing (2) with an inlet (3) and an outlet (4) as well as a partition (5) between said inlet and outlet and having a seat (6) designed for an interaction with a main valve body (7), which is adjustable from outside. To said inlet and said outlet are connected a measuring nipple each (50 and 74, respectively) via a bore (30, 31 and 40, 41 respectively) for the measurement and the control of temperature and/or pressure. One of the measuring nipples is designed as a multiple function nipple (50) having a cut-off-valve permitting tapping and filling of the medium, which is to be controlled/regulated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Assignee: Tour & Andersson AB
    Inventors: Leif Glansk, Leif Marstorp
  • Patent number: 5566718
    Abstract: A fluid pressure device having a fluid unit suitable for use as a vacuum generating unit formed by connecting together a plurality of blocks having different functions, the fluid unit being connected to an external device. The fluid pressure device includes a plug-in/one-touch type electric signal connecting unit for collectively mounting a plurality of terminals in a wall surface of the fluid unit, to electrically connect the plurality of blocks to the external device. The terminals are connected to the external device by a single multi-connector means, and a plug-in/one-touch type fluid passage connecting unit, for collectively providing connecting portions within the wall surface of the fluid unit, to interconnect the external device and fluid passages defined in the fluid unit. The fluid passages are connected to the external device by a plurality of cylindrical insertion members which are inserted into the connecting portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Assignee: SMC Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shigekazu Nagai, Hiroshi Matsushima, Yoshiharu Ito, Akio Saitoh
  • Patent number: 5549139
    Abstract: A pneumatic control system for providing pressurized air and vacuum to ophthalmic microsurgical instruments. The pneumatic system is constructed in a drawer assembly to allow it to be readily inserted into or removed from a modularly construct ed cabinet of a microsurgical control console.In addition, the pneumatic system improves upon existing pneumatic control systems by providing a third mode of microscissors operation from a single pneumatic port. The third mode is made possible by a high speed three-way solenoid control valve which provides rapid pulses of air to the pneumatic port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Assignee: Storz Instrument Company
    Inventors: James T. Perkins, Peter F. Appelbaum, John A. Painter
  • Patent number: 5522424
    Abstract: The invention features a coupler that is substantially disposed around an armature, and is constructed to provide an axial force-transmitting relationship between a carrier and the armature for blocking and unblocking the passage of fluids between the first and second passages. The force-transmitting relationship is characterized by the carrier being capable of axial movement relative to the armature, while the carrier substantially following the motion of the armature for both blocking and unblocking the passage of fluids between the first and second passages. The coupler includes coaxially nested coupling and blocking springs that provide equal spring forces and are removed from the direct passage of fluid between the first and second fluid passages. The solenoid is reversible in orientation such that the electrical connectors can be situated on either the manifold face, or 180.degree. on the opposite face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Assignee: LDI Pneutronics Corporation
    Inventors: Richard L. Dalton, Jr., William C. Klebusch, Andreas A. Weiss
  • Patent number: 5499941
    Abstract: A balloon inflation device with a light source involving a tube with internal electrical conducting wire such that a power source can be attached to one end of the tube, a light bulb can be attached to the other end of the tube and the power source will illuminate the light bulb. The tube also has a radially projecting flange with a chamfered edge on its outer surface such that the tube can be inserted into a balloon, light first, and the stem of the balloon can be stretched over the flange, holding the tube in place and creating a mechanical seal that prevents gas from passing between the flange and the balloon stem. The power source of the light bulb can be removed from the tube and a gas stream can be projected into the balloon, inflating it, but the tube is arranged and configured such that the gas in the balloon cannot flow out of the balloon through the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Inventor: Daniel T. Penjuke, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5495868
    Abstract: A shaft is rotatable in a housing to several detented positions, established by a detent wheel and spring pressed detent balls, and is provided with a pinion gear which drives a gear rack on a valve carriage guided for linear movement along a spacer. A rubber valve on the carriage is movable across vacuum valve ports to perform vacuum switching functions. A bearing on the carriage moves along a slot in the spacer and carries an idler gear which rolls along a gear rack on the housing and drives a gear rack on an electrical carriage, slidable along the spacer. Fan and clutch contactors are movable with the electrical carriage across fixed contacts to perform electrical switching functions. The detent balls and springs can be inserted through access slots from outside the housing. The housing has two mounting members with latching hooks projecting forwardly for insertion into slots in a supporting panel. A boss on the housing around the shaft is insertable into an opening in the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Indak Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventor: John G. Cummings
  • Patent number: 5495871
    Abstract: A modular valve system in which individual valves are housed in individual, discrete, pluggable units so that they can easily be assembled. Each unit housing a valve also houses the necessary electrical circuity both to control and actuate the valves. The electrical circuit necessary to actuate a valve has its own power supply and is separate from the circuit that generates the control signal which also has its own power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: The Aro Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph L. Meloche, Jeffery W. Smith
  • Patent number: 5400820
    Abstract: A light switching apparatus, including an electrical switch, a water faucet assembly, an attaching mechanism for affixing the switch to a water faucet lever, and a wiring mechanism for electrically connecting the switch to a lighting circuit.Preferably, the electrical switch is a fiat, thumb-operated switch, and the water faucet lever has at least one fiat surface. The mechanism for attaching the electrical switch to the fiat surface of the water faucet lever includes a plurality of magnets attached to a bottom side of the electrical switch to affix it to the fiat surface of the water faucet lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Inventor: George M. Orth
  • Patent number: 5348047
    Abstract: A valve arrangement comprising a fluid distributor and a signal distributor arranged adjacent to the same. On the fluid distributor a main valve with a control unit is mounted. The signal distributor has a set of upwardly directed plug connectors. Furthermore there is a set of upwardly directed plug connectors on the control unit, which set is however at a higher level than the that of the signal distributor. In order to produce an electrical connection between the control unit and the signal distributor there is an electrical connection bridge, which comprises internal electrical conductors, which connect together two further sets of electrical plug connectors. Since these sets of plug connectors are directed downwards the connection bridge may be plugged in position from above without any difficulty, respectively associated sets of plug connectors entering into a plugged connection with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Assignee: Festo KG
    Inventors: Kurt Stoll, Stefan Demuth, Magnus Henzler
  • Patent number: 5291920
    Abstract: A combined control and regulating valve (1) having a housing (2) with an inlet (3) and an outlet (4) as well as a partition (5) between said inlet and outlet and having a seat (6) designed for an interaction with a main valve body (7), which is adjustable from outside. Said inlet and said outlet are connected to one measuring nipple each (31-39 and 41-49 respectively) for the measurement and the control of temperature and/or pressure. One of the measuring nipples (41-49) is designed as a multiple function nipple (50) having a cutt-off-function designed to interact with a seat (53) in a passage (40), which receives said nipple. In a housing neck (55), which encloses said nipple, are access openings (56) disposed, through which e.g. water can be discharged or filled, when said nipple is in its outer screwing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Tour & Andersson AB
    Inventors: Leif Glansk, Leif Marstorp
  • Patent number: 5279319
    Abstract: A system for alleviating leakage or weepage from a pressure relief valve found on conventional hot water heater tanks due to water pressure build-up in residential water lines caused by the application of intense heat with fast recovery type hot water heaters wherein a water pressure relief valve is easily and quickly connected between a washing machine water supply outlet faucet and a flexible washing machine water inlet hose and water vented from this pressure relief valve is vented through a flexible hose to an appropriate drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1994
    Inventor: George R. Fidelman
  • Patent number: RE34939
    Abstract: A .[.connector.]. .Iadd.device .Iaddend.with a safety shut-off feature for .[.connecting a gas appliance to a source of gas.]. .Iadd.preventing the flow of a gas in the event of an occurrence which might cause gas leakage or a fire hazard.Iaddend.. The .[.connector.]. .Iadd.device .Iaddend.comprises a tubular line .[., a first coupling adjacent the inlet end of the line for releasably coupling the line.]. .Iadd.adapted for connection .Iaddend.to .[.the.]. .Iadd.a .Iaddend.source of gas, .[.a second coupling adjacent the outlet end of the line for releasably coupling the line to the appliance,.]. and a valve associated with the line movable between an open position for permitting passage of gas through the line and a closed position for preventing passage of gas through the line. An electric circuit controls the operation of the valve. The circuit comprises an electrical conductor on the line designed to break or otherwise .[.become non-conductive.]. .Iadd.undergo a change in electrical resistance .Iaddend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Inventor: Malcolm B. Sturgis