Head-establishing Standpipe Or Expansion Chamber (e.g., Surge Tanks) Patents (Class 137/593)
  • Patent number: 11913231
    Abstract: A device maintains proper downspout conductor pipe spacing and alignment. This stationary device attaches directly to the foundation of a home in any location utilizing different embodiments for straight walls, inside corners and outside corner conditions. The device provides fixtures or mounts to position the downspout accurately and reliably relative to the foundation and other components of the house or building. The device may be turned vertically in conjunction with a specifically formed soil and gravel guard to run downspout conductor pipes along the outside of a foundation before it is backfilled. By installing this system before backfilling, the installer is able to chalk line a path with consistent fall to ensure proper water flow through the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: Daley Design + Build, LLC
    Inventor: Graeme R. Daley
  • Patent number: 11834212
    Abstract: A method of filling containers with liquid product includes receiving a signal from at least one sensor corresponding to an amount of liquid product in a holding tank, the holding tank having an outlet for feeding the liquid product to a container filling apparatus; transferring liquid product from the outlet of the holding tank to an inlet of the container filling apparatus; and filling at least one container with the liquid product through at least one nozzle of the container filling apparatus for a predetermined fill time, wherein an amount of the liquid product dispensed during the predetermined fill time is based on a pressure at the outlet of the holding tank, wherein a head pressure in the holding tank is increased based on the signal from the sensor to control the pressure at the outlet of the holding tank as the liquid product is fed from the holding tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: Woodstock Sterile Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Logue, Kevin C. Colangelo
  • Patent number: 11416012
    Abstract: Embodiments include systems and methods of in-line mixing of hydrocarbon liquids from a plurality of tanks into a single pipeline. According to an embodiment, a method of admixing hydrocarbon liquids from a plurality of tanks into a single pipeline to provide in-line mixing thereof includes determining a ratio of a second fluid flow to a first fluid flow based on signals received from a tank flow meter in fluid communication with the second fluid flow and a booster flow meter in fluid communication with a blended fluid flow. The blended fluid flow includes a blended flow of the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow. The method further includes comparing the determined ratio to a pre-selected set point ratio thereby to determine a modified flow of the second fluid flow to drive the ratio toward the pre-selected set point ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2022
    Assignee: MARATHON PETROLEUM COMPANY LP
    Inventor: Kyle E. Miller
  • Patent number: 10508420
    Abstract: A system and method for operating a low-yield well. The method starts with a pressure transducer telling a control box that a storage tank is low on water. The controller then activates the well pump, the water then flows up a pipe past a pressure transducer showing the back pressure, through a regulator and into the storage tank. The controller is constantly monitoring the tank level and the back-pressure level to indicate when to turn off the well to either stop from over filling the storage tank, or over pumping the well. The controller makes adjustments dependent on the back pressure (which indicates the level of water left in the well) and determines how long to withdraw water and how long to wait until the water can be withdrawn again. The system prevents pumping the well dry, and keeps the pump and well in good operating condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Inventor: Kevin Epp
  • Patent number: 10480466
    Abstract: A diaphragm includes a flange and a protrusion provided to protrude to one side of the flange, wherein the protrusion has at least two annular curved portions provided annularly on a ceiling portion having a flat surface-like shape and an outer side in a radial direction of the ceiling portion, in a state where pressure on an outer wall side of the protrusion and pressure on an inner wall side of the protrusion are the same, the at least two annular curved portions are each formed to be curved in a cross-section of the diaphragm obtained by cutting the diaphragm by a virtual plane including a center line of the diaphragm, the centers of curvature of the curved portions being arranged at different positions on a side opposite to a protruding direction of the protrusion, and the diaphragm is formed of a sheet metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignees: FUJIKOKI CORPORATION, DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masahiro Tomitsuka, Shin Yoshida, Makoto Sudo, Akinori Nanbu, Osamu Hishinuma, Hiroatsu Yamada
  • Patent number: 10011254
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a pulsation damping device of a hydraulic brake system. The pulsation damping device of a hydraulic brake system which attenuates a pressure pulsation of brake oil discharged from a pump, the device comprises a damping portion installed to be inserted into a bore in communication with an inport into which the brake oil flows and an outport through which the brake oil is discharged, and a cap coupled to one end of the bore to block the one end, wherein a flow path is formed on an outer circumferential surface of the damping portion to guide the brake oil introduced into the inport to be discharged through the outport, and the flow path is formed in a longitudinal direction of the damping portion to be continuously connected from the inport to the outport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: MANDO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Young-Chae Her
  • Patent number: 9884754
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a dispensing gun with increased safety. The dispensing gun comprises an expansion chamber into which liquid trapped inside the dispensing gun can escape in case of expansion of said liquid, thereby avoiding an increase of pressure inside the dispensing gun resulting from such an expansion which could damage internal components, such as the outlet valve arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Identic AB
    Inventor: Mats Törngren
  • Patent number: 9717192
    Abstract: A fill and drain fitting assembly for a hydroponic flood table having a fill fitting to permit water to be pumped into the flood table and an overflow drain fitting which is mountable in an outlet opening of the flood table. The overflow drain fitting including a housing and a strainer which is partially received within the housing. The strainer includes at least one inlet opening formed therein and is vertically adjustable within the housing to a predetermined height. The drain fitting strainer is releasably locked at the predetermined height within the drain fitting housing, to permit water in the flood table which is above the predetermined height to enter the at least one inlet opening of the strainer and exit the bottom end of the drain fitting strainer and, in turn, the bottom end of the drain fitting housing via a fluid transmission channel established therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: Eugene G. Danner Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Danner, Steven Sawicki
  • Patent number: 9267252
    Abstract: A cover system for covering an opening, e.g., to an underground facility, watertight, includes one or more waterproof panels and a seal gasket for each panel, or a seal gasket common to a plurality of panels, configured to extend peripherally relative to the panel(s) and the opening, and adapted to be positioned between the panel(s) and the periphery of the opening, and one or more clamping devices for each panel which engage the respective panel and the periphery of the opening and/or structure extending over and attached to the opening to clamp the respective panel over the opening and compress the respective seal gasket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: RSA PROTECTIVE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Richard S. Adler, David Toyne
  • Publication number: 20130000761
    Abstract: An active fluid reservoir for transmission fluid of an automatic transmission, in a first embodiment, comprehends an elongate reservoir disposed adjacent and parallel to fluid lines leading from the automatic transmission to the transmission oil (fluid) cooler (TOC). Depending upon available space, the reservoir may be associated with either the supply or return line or two smaller reservoirs associated with both lines. Thermally actuated valves at each end of the reservoir(s) open to allow fluid flow through the reservoir as fluid temperature increases and a diverter valve in the cooler line(s) closes to divert flow into the reservoir. In a second embodiment, the fluid reservoir comprehends a container, tank or similar storage device in fluid communication with a transmission oil cooler (TOC) line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Stevens
  • Patent number: 8066029
    Abstract: A sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device eliminates raw sewage spills by preventing pressure buildup in sewer drains. One or more sewage level sensors may be coupled to an alarm and/or to an automatic water main shut-off valve. The level sensor may detect excess fluid levels in a sewer lateral line. The sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device may include a joggle which is a component of a non-mechanical backflow prevention device. The level sensor may detect fluid levels in the lower portion of the joggle and activate the automatic water main shut-off valve and/or the alarm. The sewer backup alarm and overflow prevention device may include at least one two-way, in-line cleanout tube which may extend vertically upwardly from the joggle. The level sensor may be mounted in the vertical cleanout tube. The components may be contained within a seamless polyethylene vault for ease of installation and protection against root intrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventors: William McDonald, Walter L. Dabbs, Paul Willman
  • Publication number: 20100329411
    Abstract: A dynamic port that extends from the bottom wall of an oil reservoir that surrounds the lower guide bearing of a reactor coolant pump and is in fluid communication within an oil level gauge. The dynamic port is rotatable into and out of the oil flow path to adjust the dynamic oil level shown by the oil level gauge when the pump is at operating speed to be substantially equal to the static oil level when the motor is at rest.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: Westinghouse Electric Company, LLC
    Inventors: David R. Brady, Christopher Snodgrass, Thomas G. Loebig
  • Publication number: 20100275555
    Abstract: In one of its aspects, the present invention relates to a process for forming a flexible liquid-packaging pouch. This process improves fill-accuracy of the flowable material contained in the pouch. Specifically, the invention relates to a process for improving the fill-accuracy of a pouch by incorporating at least one stand-pipe in a balance tank that feeds the pouch with flowable material to be packaged. This invention also relates to such apparatus for improving the fill-accuracy of the flexible liquid-packaging pouch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Applicant: Liqui-Box Corporation
    Inventors: Simon Weagant, Jason G. Peterson, James W. Sadler
  • Publication number: 20100242867
    Abstract: An air venting arrangement for a liquid cooling system associated with an internal combustion engine has a shunt vessel, and a transfer conduit connecting a flange portion of the shunt vessel to the liquid cooling system, and configured to pass coolant between the shunt vessel and the liquid cooling system. A venting conduit is disposed in a bore of the flange portion, and positioned to vent entrained air in the transfer conduit, developed during a filling of the cooling system, to a portion of the shunt vessel, and reduce the time required in filling of the liquid cooling system. A compression limiter and fastener connected to the compression limiter maintains and positions a first and a second end of the venting conduit at predetermined locations to provide venting of the transfer conduit to the reservoir portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Adam P. Murphy, Patrice L. Cummings, Kyle C. Hummel, Mark D. Ross
  • Publication number: 20090101212
    Abstract: A fluid regulator (1) for use as a shower water saving device, wherein an initial volume of water of a water stream at an undesired cold temperature is collected in a chamber and is reintroduced into the water stream when the stream has reached the desired temperature. Reintroduction of the initial volume of cold water is at a controlled rate such that the temperature change upon reintroduction is not significant. The fluid regulator (1) comprises a body (2), a flow passage (3) having an inlet (20) and outlet (21) for the water stream, a water collection chamber (4) in fluid communication with the flow passage (3), and a flow diverter (5) associated with the flow passage (3) and moveable between a closed position in which the water stream is directed to the collection chamber (4), and an open position in which the water stream may flow to the outlet (21) and the water in the collection chamber (4) may be drained from the collection chamber (4) to the outlet (21) by way of the flow passage (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Applicant: CULLIN INNOVATION PTY LTD
    Inventor: Peter CULLIN
  • Publication number: 20080149201
    Abstract: A main flow line and relief valve assembly comprising: a main line fitted with a standpipe; a relief valve fitted within the standpipe; and a sleeve inserted in the standpipe below the relief valve, with a distal end of the sleeve configured to prevent aero-acoustic resonances of the deep cavity formed by the relief valve and standpipe assembly. The aero-acoustic resonance is prevented by separating the vortex shedding frequency associated with the free shear layer convecting across the mouth of the deep cavity and the acoustic cavity frequencies of the deep cavity and by disrupting the free shear layer at the mouth of the deep cavity such that the vertical structure does not remain coherent and/or does not impact upon the downstream edge of the cavity mouth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Daniel V. Sommerville, Daniel C. Pappone
  • Publication number: 20030116202
    Abstract: A fuel filler tube assembly including a one-way valve or check valve. The tube assembly is adaptable for pre-assembly on either a metal or plastic fuel tank and employs a common check valve with an adapter tube for plastic tanks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Applicant: EATON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Pk Haridass Krishnamoorthy, Charles J. Martin, Maxim V. Zorine, Steven A. Verzyl, Robert P. Benjey
  • Patent number: 6572350
    Abstract: A package-type screw compressor includes a low-pressure stage state compressor and a high-pressure stage compressor. Motive power is transmitted from an electric motor to the two compressors via a speed increaser. The discharge gas, compressed and heated to a high temperature by the low-pressure stage compressor, is cooled by an intercooler. The discharge gas, compressed and heated to a high temperature by the high-pressure stage compressor, is cooled by an aftercooler. A casing of the intercooler and that of the aftercooler are formed integrally with a speed increaser casing, reducing the number of component parts. A cooler portion, formed by the intercooler and the aftercooler, is spaced from the speed increaser casing, thereby preventing heat, produced by the compressed air, from being transmitted to the speed increaser casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuki Takahashi, Seiji Tsuru, Minoru Taniyama, Haruo Miura
  • Patent number: 6560985
    Abstract: A universal accumulator device for an auto air conditioning system includes a housing having an inlet opening, one or more outlet openings, one or more inlet fittings selectively engaged with the inlet opening of the housing, and one or more outlet fittings selectively engaged with the outlet opening of the housing. The inlet and outlet fittings may include a metric or a British thread for coupling to the metric or British pipings or lock nuts. A tubing may be selectively secured to the fittings with one or more sealing rings and with an additional barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Inventor: Henry C. Chu
  • Patent number: 6503066
    Abstract: A pressure testing apparatus to bring, and maintain, pressure within a test vessel at a proof pressure. The apparatus includes an air motor and a fluid pump which is removably mountable to the air motor. The air motor drives the fluid pump and the pump piston which reciprocatively moves with the motor piston. A precision pressure adjustment unit is located on an outlet side of the fluid pump and includes a chamber and a piston manually adjustable to expel a fluid from the chamber to increase the pressure in the test vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Curtiss-Wright Flow Control Corporation
    Inventor: George A. Cantley
  • Patent number: 6435209
    Abstract: An elevated water tank having an improved means of preventing ice formation. The water tank is provided with an air supply line communicating the interior or the water tank to an external air compressor. The air compressor forces air through the air supply line into the water held in the water tank causing mixing of the water and generally perturbing the water to prevent ice formation on the surface of the water. The ice prevention system ensures the availability of water supply from the elevated water tank during the winter months when many water tanks freeze over. Furthermore, the ice prevention system eliminates the need for agitators and recirculation systems prone to failure or costly heating systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Howard Heil
  • Patent number: 6412509
    Abstract: Passive surge control method and device for a compression system, used to reduce the functioning instability created in particular operating conditions, wherein the compression system consists of a compressor element (12) and a plenum (13) defined by at least an inner volume (16) containing a column of liquid (21) communicating with a volume of liquid (21) through at least an aperture (22, 24, 27) in order to absorb and dissipate the non-stationary energy associated with the oscillations generated inside the plenum (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Universitá Degli Studi di Udine
    Inventors: Gianmario Arnulfi, Pietro Giannattasio, Piero Pinamonti, Diego Micheli
  • Patent number: 6237629
    Abstract: An apparatus for positive water retention and circulation in single entrance pipe water storage tanks having an arrangement of directional flow check valves coupled to allow injection of water entering the tank at a different level than water exiting the tank. In a preferred embodiment water enters the tank at a higher level than water leaving the tank. The arrangement minimizes thermostratification within the tank in warmer months and further helps to minimize surface ice buildup in colder months.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Clyde H. Zelch
  • Patent number: 6058958
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pulsatile flow system and method. The pulsatile flow system includes a reservoir, a pressure riser and a first fluid passage connected between the reservoir and the pressure riser. The system further includes a device adapted to expel fluid from the reservoir through the first fluid passage to the pressure riser. A second fluid passage is connected between the pressure riser and the reservoir, and is adapted to allow fluid to flow unidirectionally therethrough, from the pressure riser to the reservoir. The pulsatile flow system may be adapted to provide pulsatile fluid flow through a medical device, such as a ventricle assist device or mechanical heart valve, to replicate a heart's pumping action for testing the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: MicroMed Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Benkowski, Bryan E. Lynch
  • Patent number: 5664599
    Abstract: Provided is a gravity feed flow controller in which fluid communication with a particle sensor allows gas bubbles, present in a liquid flowing therethrough, to escape, under influence of a buoyant force associated therewith, before entering the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Assignee: Met One, Inc.
    Inventor: D. John Hunt
  • Patent number: 5593574
    Abstract: The invention relates to a water treatment system and more particularly to a fish tank and biofilter for use in a fish aquaculture. The fish tank has a double outlet system whereby solid waste particles are drawn continually into a central well by a trickle of water flowing through the well and out stand-pipe apparatus exterior of the tank. Clarified water is withdrawn from the center of the fish tank through a manifold having an outlet above the well and conducted to a spray bar of a separate biofilter apparatus. The biofilter includes a rotating spray bar distributing water over a bed of floating media pellets, the water exiting the spray bar causing momentarily and cyclically dynamic flow loading of the bed of pellets below it whereby the pellets are gently agitated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Inventor: J. Wayne VanToever
  • Patent number: 5379791
    Abstract: A dual-head flow controller having a positive-head and a negative-head for supplying a sample fluid from a source to a restriction at a constant rate, with the magnitude of the negative head about the same as that of the positive head, independent of the pressure of the source fluid. A positive-head tube having a distal open end connects for fluid communication with the supply. The positive-head tube extends a first predetermined distance above a mean elevation of the restriction in the measuring chamber. A negative-head tube communicates fluid from the restriction to a distal open end. A portion of the negative-head tube extends downwardly a second distance below the mean elevation of the restriction. The fluid, being communicated in response to the combined head pressures, flows at a constant rate through the restriction, independent of changes in the pressure of the source fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Inventor: John F. Christopher
  • Patent number: 5343888
    Abstract: A level activated syphon system which automatically begins drainage of a liquid such as water from an accumulation area such a swimming pool cover or flat roof when the accumulation of water reaches a preset level is disclosed. The system requires no outside source of energy and consists of a valve assembly at the accumulation area, a hose or pipe which serves as a conduit to the lower drainage area and a water seal at the lower drainage area. The valve is opened and closed by a float which rises and falls with the liquid level at the accumulation area and stops the liquid flow after the accumulation is lowered but does not allow air to enter the conduit. The liquid remains in the conduit to start the syphon cycle again when more liquid accumulates. The water seal prevents the liquid from draining from the conduit when the syphon action is stopped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Inventor: Ceil Stelzer
  • Patent number: 5333524
    Abstract: A pressure stabilizing apparatus is given which is capable of storing and supplying the volume of hydraulic fluid needed for rapid advances as well as accepting displaced hydraulic fluid required for rapid retractions in a barfeed apparatus. This pressure stabilizing apparatus or surge-accumulator device demonstrates the advantage of eliminating excessive force, which could damage the headstock, cause increased vibration and noise, and also prevents loss of contact with the bar end, all of which limit the speed of the spindle, and reduce productivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Assignee: Spego, Inc.
    Inventor: Henry E. Goforth
  • Patent number: 5327800
    Abstract: A manual valve for an automotive transmission includes a valve spool defining lands having a relatively large diameter and a land having a relatively smaller diameter. Regulated line pressure supplied to the manual valve is selectively connected to and disconnected from passages that are pressurized when the gear selector is moved among a reverse drive range, overdrive range, and several manual ranges. Friction elements, supplied with hydraulic pressure through these passages, are engaged and disengaged to produce the various gear ratios of the transmission. When each friction element is disengaged, it is vented through an exhaust passage extending from the manual valve to a point that is vertically high in relation to the other passages of the circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Joseph S. Van Selous
  • Patent number: 5265942
    Abstract: Disclosed is a regulator for use in fluid braking systems of motor vehicles, particularly hydraulic braking systems. The regulator includes a housing which is advantageously formed of a main housing piece and a detachable cap piece. A resilient bulb is mounted within the housing, such as between the main piece and cap. The housing includes a bulb cavity in which expandable portions of the resilient bulb are mounted. The bulb cavity is larger than the resilient bulb so that increased braking pressures applied by the braking system to the interior of the bulb cause the bulb to expand outwardly within the cavity. The space between the interior surfaces of the cavity and the outer surfaces of the bulb define a bulb restraint chamber. The housing is preferably provided with a restraint pressure supply which allows a desired, elevated restraint pressure to be established within the restraint chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1993
    Inventor: Ed F. Jones
  • Patent number: 5058384
    Abstract: A hydraulic actuator is formed by an assembly including a first element, a cylinder, a body section and a chamber. The first element is provided with a first set of a plurality of different sized piston cavities and piston elements which cooperate with a second set of piston elements and piston cavities respectively formed on a second element. The second element forms a piston in cylinder. The body sides incorporates, preferably in symmetrical relationship around the axis, of the assembly a plurality of valves, one valve for each of the pairs of cooperating pistons and cavities. A piston divides the chamber into a high pressure reservoir and a low pressure reservoir with the piston being urged toward the high pressure reservoir to maintain a difference in pressure between the high and low pressure reservoirs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Assignee: University of British Columbia
    Inventor: Andrew B. Dunwoody
  • Patent number: 5054519
    Abstract: A chemical bath in which batches of integrated circuit wafers or other articles are immersed in hot liquid chemical during manufacture has a processing vessel, an adjacent sump vessel and a trough which carries overflow from the processing vessel to the sump vessel. A pump continuously recirculates liquid from the sump vessel to the processing vessel through a filter. A continuous inflow of liquid is received from a liquid chemical source and an intermittent outflow occurs through an outlet at an upper region of the sump vessel. The liquid chemical source may, for example, supply make-up fluid or be a reprocessor that repurifies the outflow from the sump vessel. The storage capacity of the sump vessel below the outlet is greater than that needed to contain the volume of liquid that is displaced in the processing vessel by the batch of wafers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1991
    Assignee: Imtec Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Allan Berman
  • Patent number: 4930552
    Abstract: A washing machine standpipe that has a drainage outlet in Lifting on an inner tube inside the standpipe uncovers a lower opening on the standpipe, allowing trapped water to escape. When the lower opening is in a closed position by having the inner tube cover it, water exits into the standpipe from the top portion as is conventional. The inner tube can be automatically lifted and the lower opening uncovered upon the completion of a machine cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1990
    Inventor: William E. Estep
  • Patent number: 4928754
    Abstract: A heat exchanging or circulation apparatus comprising a system of conduits connected to an inlet and an outlet for circulating water or other practically incompressible liquid through the system, heat being transferred through the conduit walls, circulation through the apparatus being periodically shut-off, whereupon continued heat transfer through the conduit walls causes freezing of the liquid to ice in the conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1990
    Inventor: Anders Westerberg
  • Patent number: 4911197
    Abstract: A washing machine standpipe that has an auxiliary drainage outlet in case the machine pump should break down. Rotation of an inner tube inside the standpipe opens a lower connection to the machine discharge hose, allowing trapped water to escape. When the lower opening is in a closed position, water exits into the standpipe from the top portion as is conventional.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1990
    Inventor: William E. Estep
  • Patent number: 4852609
    Abstract: A sump pump adaptor which includes a tank which is mounted to a bottom nipple connected to a sewer pipe. A vertical sump pump is mounted on the tank so as to pump water from the tank out of a basement, for example as by pumping water through the basement window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1989
    Inventor: Anton Schoenauer
  • Patent number: 4815494
    Abstract: A water tower consisting of a main body extending upward from the ground, a water channel and a pumping means for pumping water into the water channel, which acts as a water storage of the tower. In know water towers, the main water storage is placed at the top of the tower, at a height of several tens of meters, which means that the costs of construction on the tower and its groundwork are considerable and impose strict requirements on the structure of the tower. These problems are solved by the invention in that the tower is provided with a water reservoir placed at its lower end under the ground surface or substantially close to the ground surface, said reservoir constituting a safety storage of water, and that the water channel of the tower is of a substantially narrow sectional form through the whole of its length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1989
    Inventor: Mikko H. Raikamo
  • Patent number: 4779769
    Abstract: A dispensing device enables a liquid to be delivered to the cavities of a titration plate. In order to obtain optimum quality of delivery, charging pipes lead from a distributing pipe first upwards, and then, after passing a bypass area, downwards to a discharge area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1988
    Assignee: Prolic S.A.
    Inventors: Peter Rubenzer, Eike Bohme
  • Patent number: 4765366
    Abstract: A temperature-compensated fluid flow control valve for a valve system of an automatic transmission having a displaceable valve spool which is acted upon by pressure in a valve chamber against the force of a spring and on which an additional force proportional to temperature counteracts the pressure loading, the additional force being produced by the back pressure at an outflow orifice of variable cross-section which is reduced in size as the temperature rises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1988
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Vladimir Premiski, Claudia Premiski, Winfried Schultz
  • Patent number: 4756327
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for head control of irrigation waters in above-ground gated pipe located on a gradient. The method includes the steps of: measuring the elevation drop over the length of said pipe; providing an in-line container at predetermined elevation drops along said pipe, said container having an inlet for receiving water from the upstream portion of said pipe and an outlet for discharging water to the downstream portion of said pipe; dividing each of said containers with a height adjustable partisan located between said intake and said outtake; and adjusting the height of each of said height adjustable partisan to provide the desired flow from the openings in the pipe upstream of said partisan being adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1988
    Inventor: Robert D. Krause
  • Patent number: 4700734
    Abstract: The present invention relates to water collecting and spring box and gauging system and water holding tank wherein the spring box is designed to receive and collect water from a source such as a spring. Once collected in the spring box, the water is filtered prior to being directed to a water holding tank that is normally stationed near a point between the spring and location of ultimate use. The spring box includes a water inlet, a drain, and a supply outlet. The flow rate of water from the spring box is controlled by varying the height of the water level maintained in the spring box and by selectively sizing and spacing openings formed in a vertical water filter that is communicatively connected to the supply outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1987
    Inventor: Robert G. McCauley
  • Patent number: 4660588
    Abstract: A method of temporarily storing a producer unit effluent, during the transmission of the effluent from the producer unit to a user unit at a predetermined user unit flow rate, in which excess producer unit effluent is passed to a storage unit through a single bidirectional flow line and make-up producer unit effluent is passed from the storage unit through the bidirectional flow line to the user unit. The feed rate to the user unit is controlled to maintain a predetermined feed rate and producer unit effluent, from the producer unit to the storage unit and from the storage unit to the user unit through the bidirectional flow line, is controlled by measuring the back pressure built up in the bidirectional flow line or the flow line from the producer unit to the user unit and permitting flow from the bidirectional flow line to the storage unit and from the storage unit to the bidirectional flow line, as the case may be, in accordance with the measured pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1987
    Assignee: Phillips Petroleum Company
    Inventor: Frank W. Skraba
  • Patent number: 4564500
    Abstract: A reactor coolant pump motor has an annular oil pot encircling the vertical motor shaft and containing lubricating oil to a predetermined normal level. A plurality of secondary oil containers are equidistantly spaced around the perimeter of the oil pot, each secondary container having a flat planar bottom surface disposed substantially at the normal oil level of the oil pot. A plurality of conduits provide liquid communication between the bottom of the oil pot and the bottoms of the secondary containers. Each secondary container is substantially closed, but vented to atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1986
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventor: Richard J. Keady
  • Patent number: 4552175
    Abstract: A reserve tank is built into the vehicle, and communicates with a filler pipe. A sleeve extends into the reserve tank, the upper end of which defines the reserve capacity, and the other end of which is connected with the inlet of the fuel tank. The contents of the reserve tank can be transferred readily into the fuel tank via a bypass with a valve. An expansion tank with a volume of at least 10% of the tank volume, is likewise connected with the fuel tank via a pipe. An air vent connection of the fuel tank and an air vent connection of the expansion tank are alternately connected with the atmosphere via valves controlled by a closure device, in such a way that, when the filler is open, the air vent connection of the fuel tank is opened, while the air vent connection for the expansion tank is shut. A non-return valve is incorporated in the passage which leads from the connection on the fuel tank via the expansion tank into the air vent connection for the expansion tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1985
    Inventor: Wolfram Schiemann
  • Patent number: 4518009
    Abstract: A device for a fuel tank for a car with a main fuel tank, comprising a filling tube, a ventilation box, and a piping system leading from the filling tube to the main tank. A reserve tank permanently built into the car is located within the piping system. The reserve tank has an upper wall and a wall with an opening therein. The reserve tank communicates with the filling tube. A pipe protrudes into the reserve tank and has at one end an upwardly open rim, whereby the height of the upper rim determines the volume of gasoline reserve inside the reserve tank. The pipe travels via the opening through the wall of the reserve tank, and forms at its other end the inlet to the main tank. The ventilation box is located at a point above the upper wall of the reserve tank. A by-pass hose by-passes the opening, and has an upper end which leads into a wall area of the reserve tank, and a lower end which leads to a point downstream of the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1985
    Inventor: Wolfram Schiemann
  • Patent number: 4431026
    Abstract: A pressure control valve to control the pressure of a fluid in a fluid system so that it remains constant. This type of valve can be utilized as element of a fuel injection system for internal combustion engines, and has storage means which are independent of the valve member, and actuatable by the pressure of the fluid. The pressure control valve comprises a housing and a support assembly urged toward a valve seat by a control spring. Additionally, a storage spring in the support assembly urges a closing member toward the valve seat. The closing member is slidably received in a bore in the support assembly. The support assembly is connected to a membrane which is tensioned between the housing members. Other variations of this device are also revealed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1981
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1984
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Siegfried Fehrenbach, Eberhard Utz, Kurt Herbst
  • Patent number: 4427024
    Abstract: An expansible, resilient receptacle positionable about a standpipe installed for the relief of subsurface water pressure occasioned specifically by sewer backup. The receptacle surrounds the standpipe and communicates with the inner portion thereof through strategically located openings in the walls of the standpipe. The water introduced to the receptacle bulges its walls and urges a watertight engagement between the walls and floor about the base of the standpipe. The seal contains any water leaking upwardly around the base of the standpipe and prevents the floor from failing. In the event the excessive subsurface water pressure is encountered, the water is permitted to escape into the room to avoid possible rupture of the floor surface. The water is releaseable from the receptacle when the subsurface pressure diminishes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1984
    Inventors: Michael A. Gregory, Glenn N. Traeger
  • Patent number: 4425928
    Abstract: A water discharging system for cooling hot rolled steel strip including a header for delivering water to the strip, a water supply system for the header, two fixed overflow pipes arranged to control the volume output of said header: one capable of producing the full flow capacity, and the other a half flow capacity of the water delivered by the header, and a valve for bringing into operation one or the other of said overflow pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1984
    Assignee: Wean United, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph I. Greenberger, Frederick C. Kohring
  • Patent number: 4383551
    Abstract: An anti-hammer device for use in a two-line liquid-mixing system, where liquids from the two lines are pulse-blended and merged into a single output stream. The device includes a housing divided by a flexible diaphragm into two liquid-receiving plenums, each of which communicates with a different one of the two lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1983
    Assignee: Quadratec Associates
    Inventors: M. Dee Lynch, James W. Bernklau