Electric Patents (Class 137/565.16)
  • Patent number: 8181667
    Abstract: The GTank-C90 Auxiliary Fuel Transfer System consists of an auxiliary fuel transfer cell 1 that connects to and becomes an integral part of the increased fuel capacity of the motorcycle extending its usable riding range. The GTank-C90 Auxiliary Fuel Transfer System enables fuel transfer from the auxiliary fuel transfer cell 1, to the stock fuel tank 17 by activation of the momentary toggle switch 21, activating the Fuel Transfer Pump Timed Electrical circuit, transferring fuel for a predetermined time to allow for complete transfer of fuel. This fuel transfer is designed for use during normal operation of the motorcycle without disruption of use or adversely affecting the operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Gary A. Ford
  • Publication number: 20120103426
    Abstract: Methods and devices for performing a model based anti-surge dead time compensation in systems including a compressor and an anti-surge loop are provided. A new position of an anti-surge valve on the anti-surge loop is determined by correcting for dead time a value of the anti-surge parameter calculated from field measurements, based on a predicted anti-surge parameter estimated using a deterministic model which has as variables the field measurements and a current position of the anti-surge valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Daniele GALEOTTI
  • Publication number: 20120103446
    Abstract: An air pressure producing apparatus includes: a vacuum pump having a negative pressure terminal and a positive pressure terminal; a first solenoid valve having a first intake terminal and a first exhaust terminal connected to the negative pressure terminal of the vacuum pump; a second solenoid valve having a second exhaust terminal and a second intake terminal connected to the positive pressure terminal of the vacuum pump; and a control unit connected to the vacuum pump, the first solenoid valve and the second solenoid valve for controlling the vacuum pump to extract air at the negative pressure terminal thereof so as to produce a negative pressure at the first intake terminal of the first solenoid valve and controlling the vacuum pump to exhaust air at the positive pressure terminal thereof so as to produce a positive pressure at the second exhaust terminal of the second solenoid valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: Askey Computer Corporation
    Inventors: Ming-Hung Chou, Ching-Feng Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20120090708
    Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to improve responsiveness in valve opening and valve closing of an electromagnetically driven intake valve unit in which a valve is provided on a pressurizing chamber side of a valve seat. The valve includes an annular abutting surface that abuts the valve seat to shut off a fuel intake passage and a bottomed cylindrical part provided at an inner peripheral part of the annular abutting surface. The bottomed cylindrical part is inserted into a fuel introduction hole formed in the valve housing inside the valve seat, and the outer surface of an end part of the bottomed cylindrical part is exposed to fuel in a low pressure fuel chamber provided upstream of the fuel introduction hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Satoshi Usui, Kenichiro Tokuo, Tatsuo Kawano, Masahiko Hayatani, Shingo Tamura, Hiroyuki Yamada, Katsumi Miyazaki
  • Patent number: 8122709
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for supplying a reducing agent into an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine. The device includes a delivery pump for delivering the reducing agent from a storage tank into an exhaust tube of the exhaust system. A metering device is provided between the delivery pump and the exhaust tube, which metering device supplies reducing agent, which is delivered continuously by the delivery pump, in an intermittent fashion into the exhaust tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Buerglin, Dirk Heilig
  • Publication number: 20120000632
    Abstract: A forced fluid switch including a first plenum in communication with a first port; a second plenum in communication with a second port; a third plenum in switched communication with the first plenum and the second plenum and in communication with a third port; a fourth plenum in switched communication with the first plenum and the second plenum and in communication with a fourth port; and wherein the forced fluid switch has at least a first forced fluid path and a second forced fluid path, wherein in the first forced fluid path, the third plenum is in communication with the first plenum and the fourth plenum is in communication with the second plenum, and wherein in the second forced fluid path, the third plenum is in communication with the second plenum and the fourth plenum is in communication with the first plenum. A method is provided for switching forced fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: MRL Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin B. PECK
  • Publication number: 20110265898
    Abstract: A multiple configuration air mattress pump system is disclosed. The pump system includes a number of standard components with a few inexpensive varied components to allow for easy and less expensive use of the pump with mattresses having varying numbers of inflatable zones. An improved sealed manifold is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: Rapid Air LLC (a Wisconsin limited liability company)
    Inventor: David Delory Driscoll, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110126832
    Abstract: An exhalation valve assembly that controls the pressure of exhaled gas in a ventilation system is described. The exhalation valve assembly includes an actuator module that may be fixed to the ventilation system and a valve module, removable for cleaning or disposal, through which the exhaled gas flows and that controls the pressure and release of the exhaled gas to the environment. Other components may also be incorporated into the assembly including a filter module, a flow meter and a condensate trap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: Nellcor Puritan Bennett LLC
    Inventors: David Phillip Winter, Warren G. Sanborn
  • Patent number: 7866333
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fluid transfer system and method for transferring fluid from a reservoir (2) and to (a) delivery device typically being (a) nozzle. The present invention relates in particular to transferring urea in highly accurate metered amounts from a reservoir (2) to a nozzle (5) arranged within an exhaust system (4) of a combustion engine (1) or combustion engines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Grundfos Nonox A/S
    Inventors: Christian Boe, Anders E. Jensen, Niels Torp Madsen, Hans Henrik Jochumsen
  • Publication number: 20100288369
    Abstract: A vacuum system for semiconductor fabrication. The system includes a vacuum chamber for performing a semiconductor fabrication process, a vacuum source, and a piping system fluidly connecting the vacuum chamber to the vacuum source. In one embodiment, the piping system is configured without a horizontal flow path section of piping. In some embodiments, the piping system includes a first piping branch and a second piping branch. The first and second piping branches preferably have a symmetrical configuration with respect to the vacuum source. In yet other embodiments, the first and second piping branches preferably each include a throttle valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yi-Pin CHANG, Chyi Shyuan CHERN
  • Publication number: 20100263739
    Abstract: The ‘GTank-C90 Auxiliary Fuel Transfer System’ consists of an auxiliary fuel transfer cell that connects to and becomes an integral part of the extended fuel storage of the motorcycle increasing its capacity and riding range. The ‘GTank-C90 Auxiliary Fuel Transfer System’ allows the motorcycle operator to transfer fuel from the auxiliary fuel transfer cell to the stock fuel tank by activating a momentary 12V toggle switch. This fuel transfer is designed to be performed during normal operation of the ‘motorcycle’ without disruption of use or adversely affecting the operation of the motorcycle in any way.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Gary A. Ford
  • Publication number: 20100212758
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system used to feed WC flushing tanks (C) with recycled water collected in a tank (1) in which the water coming from the sink (L), other sanitary fittings and household appliances (LB) is drained; it being provided that, in case of absence or draining of the recycled water reserve, the same system is capable of favouring the feeding of the flushing tanks (C) with “clear” water normally supplied by the domestic water network (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventors: Dante Postacchini, Roberto Postacchini
  • Publication number: 20100163124
    Abstract: A liquid pressurization device which is housed within a single rectangular housing that utilizes a solar panel as the front cover and the only source of energy. An interchangeable pulley mounted on a motion controlled technology motor allows for a wide range of pressure and volume scenarios common to liquid pressurization applications, and in combination with a motor controller and driver board, and programmable logic control board, these pressure and volume scenarios are further optimized for the utilization of solar energy as the sole energy source. Said programmable logic board further provides ports for firmware updates, monitoring devices, and diagnostic devices. A lever is reciprocated by an energy transfer pulley that transfers drive force to the liquid end of the apparatus, providing a low friction multiplication of available power. The liquid end of the apparatus is further designed for ease of maintenance to replaceable components with limited life spans.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventor: George Patterson Bellis, SR.
  • Publication number: 20100147394
    Abstract: A method includes associating a plurality of valve balancing units with a plurality of valves in a hydronic network. The method also includes adjusting a setting of at least one of the valves using at least one of the valve balancing units to balance the hydronic network. Adjusting the setting could include identifying a differential pressure across a valve and a flow rate of material through that valve. Adjusting the setting could also include comparing the identified differential pressure to a target differential pressure and/or the identified flow rate to a target flow rate. Adjusting the setting could further include instructing an actuator to adjust the setting until the identified differential pressure is within a first threshold of the target differential pressure and/or the identified flow rate is within a second threshold of the target flow rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Pavel Trnka, Vladimir Havlena, Jaroslav Pekar, Axel Hilborne-Clarke
  • Publication number: 20100095890
    Abstract: A gas supply system 20 for supplying a gas into a pumping system 10 is provided, the pumping system including a plurality of pumping means 14, 16, the gas supply system comprising a gas inlet 22 and plurality of gas conduits 24, 25 fluidly connected to the gas inlet and each having a gas outlet 27, 28 fluidly connectable to the pumping system 10, wherein the gas outlets of the plurality of gas conduits are in parallel fluidly connectable to the pumping system and each gas conduit is provided with a gradient adjustment means adapted to provide at least one gradient of gas amount supplied to the pumping system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas GEBELE, Juergen HENRICH, Thomas LEIPNITZ, Stefan KLEIN
  • Publication number: 20100089460
    Abstract: The invention relates to a valve (16), in which a fluid inlet opening provided in a valve housing (1) is connected to a fluid outlet opening (3) downstream of the fluid inlet opening by a fluid passage (2) and with a valve closing body (6) which may be moved between a first position which opens the fluid outlet opening (3) and a second position closing the fluid outlet opening (3) by means of an actuator, said body being housed in the valve housing (1). According to the invention, pressure waves are avoided by at least one fluid drain channel (5) branching off the fluid passage (2) via at least one fluid drain opening (4) in the vicinity of the fluid outlet opening (3) and a device is provided in the valve housing for the alternate opening of the fluid drain opening (3) and the fluid outlet opening (4) such that fluid may continuously flow through the fluid passage (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: FMP Fluid Measurements and Projects GmbH
    Inventor: Franz Durst
  • Publication number: 20100018596
    Abstract: Provided is a micro fluidic transportation device capable of controlling discontinuous transportation of micro droplets using surface acoustic wave (SAW), and a method for manufacturing the same. The micro fluidic transportation device which includes: a substrate; a piezoelectric layer formed on the substrate; an inter digitated transducer (IDT) electrode formed on the piezoelectric layer for energy conversion by generating a surface acoustic wave (SAW); and a fluid passage formed on the piezoelectric thin layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventors: Dae-Sik Lee, Sung-Lyul Maeng, Jack Luo, Bill Milne
  • Publication number: 20090242049
    Abstract: A parts assembly includes a housing including a first part assembly hole on which a first apparatus component is assembled, the first apparatus component being fixed to the housing by means of a caulking for forming a caulking portion by a deformation of a bearing surface of the housing on which the first apparatus component is seated. The housing includes a second part assembly hole provided in the vicinity of the caulking portion and on which a second apparatus component is assembled. The housing includes a sacrificial deformation portion deformed by a force applied to the housing when the bearing surface is deformed by means of the caulking, the sacrificial deformation portion attenuating a force propagated to a portion including the second part assembly hole where the second apparatus component is assembled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: Yutaka YAMASHITA, Fumitoshi KOYAMA
  • Publication number: 20090199538
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fluid transfer system and method for transferring fluid from a reservoir (2) and to (a) delivery device typically being (a) nozzle. The present invention relates in particular to transferring urea in highly accurate metered amounts from a reservoir (2) to a nozzle (5) arranged within an exhaust system (4) of a combustion engine (1) or combustion engines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: GRUNDFOS NONOX A/S
    Inventors: Christian Boe, Anders E. Jensen, Niels Torp Madsen, Hans Henrik Jochumsen
  • Publication number: 20090151801
    Abstract: A method of operating a controller for a pool pump motor includes the steps of setting an operating mode for the pool pump motor, setting a torque value for the pool pump motor corresponding to the operating mode, setting a high operating threshold and a low operating threshold corresponding to the torque value, operating the pool pump motor in a constant torque mode using the torque value, monitoring an operating parameter of the pool pump motor corresponding to a load on the pool pump motor, discontinuing operating the pool pump motor when the operating parameter is higher than the high operating threshold or lower than the low operating threshold and signaling a pool pump motor fault upon the discontinuing operating the pool pump motor. The operating parameter of the pool pump motor is RPM or current supplied to the pool pump motor. Additionally disclosed are energy efficient pool hydraulic design techniques that increase the energy efficiency of hydraulic systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventors: John Gorman, William Lizalde, Robert Kulakowski
  • Publication number: 20090090174
    Abstract: A precision flow controller is capable of providing a flow rate less than 100 microliters/minute and varying the flow rate in a prescribed manner that is both predictable and reproducible where the accuracy and precision of the flowrate is less than 5% of the flow rate. A plurality of variable pressure fluid supplies pump fluid through a single outlet. Flowmeters measure the flow rates and a controller compares the flow rates to desired flowrates and, if necessary, adjusts the plurality of variable pressure fluid supplies so that the variable pressure fluid supplies pump fluid at the desired flow rate. The variable pressure fluid supplies can be pneumatically driven.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventors: Phillip H. Paul, Jason E. Rehm, Don W. Arnold
  • Publication number: 20090065062
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for reusing water, comprising: —a mains system which comprises at least one conduit for transporting water and monitoring means adapted to measure changes in an electrical parameter of the conduit; —a storage tank for storing supplied water; —a water discharge for discharging stored water to a water-consuming unit; and—a control system adapted to control the supply of water to and the discharge of water from the storage tank subject to the changes in the parameter measured by the monitoring means. The present invention also relates to a mains system applied in such a system, and to a method for monitoring such a system or water mains system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventors: Johannes Donaes Jacobus Platteel, Sjoerd Pieter Wouda
  • Publication number: 20080173358
    Abstract: A system for adding a fuel additive to a fuel tank. The system includes a container which contains the fuel additive and a pump assembly having its inlet open to the container and an outlet fluidly connected to the fuel tank. A pump controller includes a fuel amount input mechanism for inputting the amount of fuel supplied to the fuel tank. The controller selectively activates the pump assembly in an amount necessary to obtain a predetermined ratio of fuel to additive in the fuel tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventor: James Guldi
  • Publication number: 20080156383
    Abstract: A fluid-transfer system includes a pump, a valve member for metering fluid pumped by the pump, and controls that regulate the position of the valve member. The controls may include an electric actuator operable to generate movement of the valve member in a first direction using activation current. The controls may also include one or more springs that provide resistance force that urges the valve member in a second direction, opposite the first direction. A spring rate of the resistance force may vary as a function of the position of the valve member in such a manner that a relationship between a flow rate of the fluid pumped through the pump and the activation current is more linear than a relationship between a position of the valve member and the activation current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventors: Jian YE, Zhenyu LI
  • Publication number: 20080142096
    Abstract: The invention relates to an actuating assembly (1) for the electrohydraulic actuation of displaceable elements in a vehicle. Said actuating assembly (1) comprises a pump unit (4), an electric motor (3) that drives the pump unit (4), a hydraulic fluid tank (2) and at least one valve block (5) for controlling a volumetric flow that is generated by the pump unit (4). The pump unit (1) is equipped with a control unit (20) for electrically controlling the electric motor (3) and the valve block (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2006
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventors: Markus Kliffken, Christoph Kasper, Andreas Huber
  • Patent number: 7216671
    Abstract: A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Marc Unger, Hou-Pu Chou, Todd Thorsen, Axel Scherer, Stephen Quake, Markus Enzelberger, Mark Adams, Carl Hansen
  • Patent number: 7066197
    Abstract: A water supply system for supplying water to a building including a water tank (13) for collecting water from the roof (10) and gutters (12) of the building (11); a water level sensor means (21) for sensing the level of water in the water tank; a tank water system (22) for supplying water from the water tank (13); a water pump (23) for pumping water from the water tank (13) along the tank water system (22); a non-return valve (25) downstream of the pump in the tank water system; a pressure sensor means (26) for sensing water pressure of water within the tank water system, said pressure sensor means (26) is located downstream of the non-return valve (25); a mains water system for supplying mains water; a three port valve (35) having a first port (34) connected to the tank water system downstream from the pressure sensor means (26), a second port (37) connected to the mains water system and a third port (41) connected to the building's water reticulation system; wherein when the first (34) and third port (41) a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Urban Rainwater Systems Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Ian Gray, Rodney Douglas Moore, Gregory Duncan Cameron
  • Patent number: 7000626
    Abstract: This is a method and means for maintaining a constant supply of a fluid with specific characteristics within a fluid supply conduit from a supply source of the fluid with specific characteristics at a point of service of the fluid with specific characteristics in which a first open end of a recirculation conduit is located within the fluid with specific characteristics supply conduit adjacent the point of service. A second end of the recirculation conduit is connected to pump means in such manner that a portion of the fluid with specific characteristics within the fluid with specific characteristics supply conduit adjacent the point of service is constantly circulated back. In an alternate embodiment a similar recirculation conduit is utilized in a manner to prevent freezing of conduits in a total fluid supply line which includes portions in relatively warm areas and in areas subject to freezing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Steven B. Cress
  • Patent number: 6983757
    Abstract: An pressure differential distribution system which offers an pressure differential reaction element (1) made of a comfortable, flexible pressure differential interface (2) that is attached to a support element (3), which in conjunction with a difference in pressure between the interior volume of the differential reaction element (1) can conform to various extended or reduced conformers. The flexible pressure differential interface (2) may retract within an enclosure(4). An emission removal adaptor (12) or terminal interface (23) may be coupled to a substance source (10) to capture or move substances on a pressure differential from a first zone to a second zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Ascent Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian E. Becker, Matthew L. Becker, Carl D. Becker, Ryan M. Becker
  • Patent number: 6962162
    Abstract: A method for operating a multi-family/commercial plumbing system includes sensing an event and recording for each sensed event at least one parameter selected from the group consisting of date, day of the week, start time, duration of the event, water flow, water temperature, and humidity. The parameters are analyzed to determine a pattern and thereafter water flow, circulation, water temperature, and water use are controlled in accordance with the determined pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Act, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry K. Acker
  • Patent number: 6935356
    Abstract: A meter coupled in close proximity to an underground storage tank fuel pipe that delivers fuel from the underground storage tank to fuel dispensers in a service station environment. The meter measures the total amount of fuel drawn from the underground storage tank. The meter may be placed in a submersible turbine pump or in the main conduit that carries fuel to the fuel dispensers. The meter measurement is compared to the meter measurements in the individual fuel dispensers that receive the fuel drawn from the underground storage tank to determine if a discrepancy exists. A discrepancy may be indicative of meter tampering, meter calibration issues, and/or a leak in the fuel pipeline between the underground storage tank and the fuel dispensers. A leak detection test may be automatically performed if such discrepancy exists and/or an alarm condition generated and communicated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Shepard, Timothy E. Dickson, David L. Kaehler, Ray J. Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 6929018
    Abstract: A meter coupled in close proximity to an underground storage tank fuel pipe that delivers fuel from the underground storage tank to fuel dispensers in a service station environment. The meter measures the total amount of fuel drawn from the underground storage tank. The meter may be placed in a submersible turbine pump or in the main conduit that carries fuel to the fuel dispensers. The meter measurement is compared to the meter measurements in the individual fuel dispensers that receive the fuel drawn from the underground storage tank to determine if a discrepancy exists. A discrepancy may be indicative of meter tampering, meter calibration issues, and/or a leak in the fuel pipeline between the underground storage tank and the fuel dispensers. A leak detection test may be automatically performed if such discrepancy exists and/or an alarm condition generated and communicated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Shepard, Timothy E. Dickson, David L. Kaehler, Ray J. Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 6899137
    Abstract: A method of fabricating an elastomeric structure, comprising: forming a first elastomeric layer on top of a first micromachined mold, the first micromachined mold having a first raised protrusion which forms a first recess extending along a bottom surface of the first elastomeric layer; forming a second elastomeric layer on top of a second micromachined mold, the second micromachined mold having a second raised protrusion which forms a second recess extending along a bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer; bonding the bottom surface of the second elastomeric layer onto a top surface of the first elastomeric layer such that a control channel forms in the second recess between the first and second elastomeric layers; and positioning the first elastomeric layer on top of a planar substrate such that a flow channel forms in the first recess between the first elastomeric layer and the planar substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Marc A. Unger, Hou-Pu Chou, Todd A. Thorsen, Axel Scherer, Stephen R. Quake, Markus M. Enzelberger, Mark L. Adams, Carl L. Hansen
  • Patent number: 6895985
    Abstract: A system for providing a user with water at a desired temperature comprising a piping system that includes a hot water pipe and a cold water pipe, a pump coupled to the piping system and a smart water delivery device coupled to the piping system and to the pump and operative to allow circulation of water from the hot water pipe to the cold water pipe prior to delivery of water at a desired temperature to the user. The smart water delivery device includes two smart valves coupled to hot and cold water inlets, a smart outlet valve coupled to a device outlet, a microcontroller for controlling the actuation of the pump and of the smart valves, and at least one temperature sensor coupled to the microcontroller and used for sensing the water temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Computerized Smart Faucet Ltd.
    Inventors: Shay Popper, Ram Friedman, Aryeh Litbak, Yaniv Petel
  • Publication number: 20040231730
    Abstract: An earthing structure of a fuel tank equipped with a lid body closing an opening of the fuel tank made of resin is characterized by being equipped with a ring-shaped member made of metal fixed on the periphery of the opening, and a retainer made of metal fixing the lid body on the ring-shaped member, wherein an electrically earthed member in the vicinity of the lid body is electrically connected to at least one of the ring-shaped member and retainer, and earthing is performed through at least one of the ring-shaped member and retainer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2004
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Nakamura, Shinya Murabayashi, Hideki Matsumoto, Tadahisa Nakamura, Naomasa Kaneko, Junichi Koseki, Daisuke Sato, Toshiaki Nakai
  • Publication number: 20040182452
    Abstract: An LPG fuel tank for motor vehicles is provided, inside, with a support, on which there can be installed in a rapid way a pump assembly including a supply pump and the corresponding electric actuating motor. Preferably, the support is also used for installing a level-sensor assembly within the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Applicant: C.R.F. SOCIETA CONSORTILE PER AZIONI
    Inventors: Mario Ricco, Sisto Luigi De Matthaeis, Claudio Amorese, Onofrio De Michele, Annunziata Anna Satriano
  • Patent number: 6792966
    Abstract: A fuel transfer apparatus for providing fuel to a vehicle engine from a plurality of fuel tanks. A transfer pump is positioned intermediate a pair of fuel tanks and is operable to transfer fuel therebetween. Fuel is provided to the engine from a first one of the two fuel tanks. Excess fuel is returned to the first one of the two fuel tanks. When the level in the first fuel tank is less than the level in the second fuel tank by a predetermined amount, the transfer pump transfers an amount of fuel from the second fuel tank to the first fuel tank. Fuel level sensors are utilized to monitor the level of fuel in the two fuel tanks and report to a microprocessor which controls the transfer pump. The microprocessor utilized to control the transfer pump may be incorporated into the transfer pump, may be a stand alone microprocessor, or may comprise an existing vehicle circuit board such as, e.g., the electronic control module (ECM). A fuel transfer line interconnects the two tanks and is located above the two tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Federal-Mogul World Wide, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard W. Harvey
  • Patent number: 6782908
    Abstract: A washer system which includes a first reservoir containing a freezable washer liquid and having a drain port therein. The drain port is in fluid communication with the freezable washer liquid when the first reservoir is in at least a full state. The washer system also includes a temperature sensor for measuring a critical temperature corresponding to approximately a freezing temperature of the freezable washer liquid, a drain plug sealingly communicating with the drain port, and an electrical control unit in operative communication with the temperature sensor and the drain plug. The electrical control unit controls the drain plug to drain the liquid from the first reservoir in response to the critical temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Ellen Cheng-chi Lee, Kevin Richard John Ellwood, Scott Alan Wojan
  • Patent number: 6718999
    Abstract: A cold water distribution system for a multi-storey building has a lower accumulator provided in the building on a lower floor thereof and an upper accumulator provided on an upper floor of the building. A water inlet pipe leads from an external mains water supply into the building and is connected to the lower accumulator through an inlet non-return valve. A riser leads from the lower accumulator to the upper accumulator and is provided with respective lower and upper non-return valves adjacent the outlet from the lower accumulator and the inlet to the upper accumulator. An electrically-driven pump is provided in the riser to pump water to the upper accumulator and a water distribution pipe is connected to the upper accumulator for supplying cold water to at least the upper floor of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Stephen John Elsey
  • Publication number: 20030219344
    Abstract: A control valve for a variable displacement compressor has a solenoid, a pressure sensing mechanism, and a valve mechanism. The solenoid has a first end and a second end and a cylindrical body. The pressure sensing mechanism is located on the first end of the solenoid. The pressure sensing mechanism has a pressure sensing chamber and a diaphragm. The diaphragm is displaced in accordance with the pressure in the pressure sensing chamber. The valve mechanism is located on the second end of the solenoid. The cylindrical body has a support end, which supports the diaphragm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventors: Takayuki Sakai, Satoru Okada
  • Publication number: 20030192599
    Abstract: A fuel pump apparatus is made free from the influence of height fluctuations of the surface of fuel in a fuel tank by providing a fuel inlet window in the side wall of a float chamber for containing a fuel gauge, which is provided inside the side wall of a housing. The fuel inlet window provides communication between the float chamber and the fuel storage chamber in the fuel tank. Even when there are height fluctuations of the surface of fuel in the fuel tank due to vibrations or turning during running of the automobile, the height fluctuations of the fuel surface are damped in the float chamber because the fuel inlet window acts as a buffer to prevent direct influence of the height fluctuations of the fuel surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Inventor: Akira Aoyama
  • Patent number: 6588449
    Abstract: Fuel shut-off device for use in a diesel fuel tank to discontinue fuel flow to a fuel pump comprises a valve seat forming a fuel flow opening for fuel to flow from the fuel tank to the fuel pump, a fuel control valve cooperably disposed relative to the valve seat to control fuel flow from the fuel tank to the fuel pump, and a spring biasing the fuel inlet valve to a closed position against the valve seat. A diaphragm is provided having a first valve-actuating side for moving the fuel inlet valve relative to the valve seat against bias of the spring and a second side. The second side is communicated to a control chamber having an inlet orifice that is communicated to the fuel tank and an outlet orifice that is communicated to said fuel pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Saturn Electronics & Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley N. Kippe
  • Patent number: 6568426
    Abstract: A pump assembly for a pressurized water system includes a pressure sensitive switch (27) arranged to monitor the water pressure in a pipe (14) extending between a water delivery pump (13) and a tap (15), the switch (27) controlling operation of the pump (13) dependent upon pressure in the pipe (14). A timer switch (30) is disposed in series with the pressure sensitive switch (27), to inhibit pump operation other than for a limited period of time following triggering of the timer switch (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Gee Group LTD
    Inventor: Francis Stanley Chapman
  • Patent number: 6568425
    Abstract: A method for supplying and withdrawing water to and from a user apparatus is achieved by supplying and withdrawing water through a single water pipe during different periods of time. A remote controlled water flow and drain system for implementation of this water supply and withdrawal method includes a water passage having two ends, one being use with the user apparatus such as a plant pot, and the other being connected to a reversible pump, and is controlled by a main controller, preferably in combination with a remote controller. The system can be connected to both a water source and a place for drainage, selectively communicating with the water source to supply water through the water passage to the user apparatus at one time, and at another time communicating the place for drainage to withdraw water from the user apparatus and deliver the withdrawn water to the place for drainage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Franc Gergek
  • Patent number: 6538261
    Abstract: A system for returning residual liquid remaining in a loading line to a liquid cargo container after loading or unloading of the cargo container. This system includes a liquid return line extending between the loading line and the cargo container. A pump is positioned to move liquid from the loading line, through the liquid return line, and into the cargo container. A vapor line communicates between a vapor space in the cargo container and the loading line. The system may include an optical liquid level sensor. The level sensor includes a light tube having two substantially straight sections joined by a substantially continuous curvature bend. The bend has a rounded cross-section and the light pipe is formed of a light conducting material. An optical emitter is positioned at the end of one of the straight sections of the pipe and an optical detector is positioned at the other straight section of the pipe. A micro-controller activates the optical emitter and monitors the optical sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee A. McConnel, William Edward Spencer, Mark Duane Holt
  • Patent number: 6505691
    Abstract: The invention is a subsea pump that includes pumping elements, each pumping element including a pressure vessel with a first and a second chamber therein and a separating member disposed between the first and second chambers. The first and second chambers are hydraulically connected to receive and discharge a hydraulic fluid and a drilling fluid, respectively. The separating member moves within the pressure vessel in response to a pressure differential between the first and second chambers. A hydraulic power supply is arranged to pump the hydraulic fluid to the first chamber of each of the pumping elements. A valve assembly is hydraulically coupled to the first chambers of the plurality of pumping elements and to the hydraulic power supply. Volume measurement devices are arranged to measure volumes of each of the first chambers and the second chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Hydril Company
    Inventors: Robert A. Judge, Charles P. Peterman
  • Patent number: 6494226
    Abstract: A fuel transfer apparatus for providing fuel to a vehicle engine from a plurality of fuel tanks. A transfer pump is positioned intermediate a pair of fuel tanks and is operable to transfer fuel therebetween. Fuel is provided to the engine from a first one of the two fuel tanks. Excess fuel is returned to the first one of the two fuel tanks. When the level in the first fuel tank is less than the level in the second fuel tank by a predetermined amount, the transfer pump transfers an amount of fuel from the second fuel tank to the first fuel tank. Fuel level sensors are utilized to monitor the level of fuel in the two fuel tanks and report to a microprocessor which controls the transfer pump. The microprocessor utilized to control the transfer pump may be incorporated into the transfer pump, may be a stand alone microprocessor, or may comprise an existing vehicle circuit board such as, e.g., the electronic control module (ECM).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Federal-Mogul World-Wide, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry J. Tipton, Richard W. Harvey
  • Patent number: 6491060
    Abstract: A sewage system comprising a network of sewage sumps that temporarily store sewage produced in a dwelling or other structure, each of said sumps preferably comprising a computer controller for operating a pump in the sump such that the sewage collected in the sump may be pumped out of the sump and into the collection system in a controlled manner to regulate the flow of sewage material in the system. The regulation of the sewage flow permits the efficient operation of a sewage treatment facility that receives sewage from the network of sewage sumps by insulating the facility from the peak burdens that would be placed on it at certain times of day in the absence of a system that regulates sewage flow into the system at the source of the sewage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Little Giant Pump Company
    Inventor: Kevin D. Struthers
  • Patent number: 6488641
    Abstract: A vest for a human body has an air core coupled to a pulsator operable to subject the vest to air pressure pulses which applies and releases pressure to the human body. The vest has a cover having a pocket accommodating the air core. The pulsator has diaphragms connected to a d.c. electric motor with a rotary to reciprocating motion transmitting mechanism operable to generate air pressure pulses which are transmitted to the air core which applies repetitive pressure pulses to the human body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Electromed, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig N. Hansen
  • Patent number: 6447258
    Abstract: A valve body adjusts opening of a supply passage in response to the position in a valve chamber. A pressure-sensitive member is moved in accordance with the pressure difference between two pressure monitoring points, which are located in an external refrigerant circuit. The movement of the pressure-sensitive member affects the position of the valve body such that the compressor displacement is changed to reduce fluctuations in the pressure difference. A solenoid changes force applied to the valve body so that a set pressure difference, which is a reference value for changing the position of the valve body by the pressure-sensitive member, is changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyoda Jidoshokki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Masaki Ota, Kazuya Kimura, Masahiro Kawaguchi, Ken Suitou, Ryo Matsubara, Taku Adaniya