With Common Valve Operator Patents (Class 137/607)
  • Patent number: 8701603
    Abstract: A control valve unit for a liquid circuit of an internal combustion engine, includes a valve housing (1) having at least one inlet opening (2) or outlet opening (2?) and at least two outlet openings (31, 32, 33) or inlet openings (31?, 32?, 33?) and at least two closing elements (41, 42, 43) actuated by a control device (22). The closing elements selectively open or close an associated outlet or inlet opening. The closing elements may be continuously adjusted between maximum open and closed positions. The control device (22) includes at least one displaceable or rotatable cam (6) and includes at least two cam tracks (71, 72, 73), each of which is assigned to a closing element (41, 42, 43) and acts on at least one driving pin (11) that is in contact with said closing element (41, 42, 43). The cams (6) are adjusted by an actuator (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Mann+Hummel GmbH
    Inventors: Stéphane Warnery, Pascal Noiseau, Mickael Cormerais
  • Patent number: 8695618
    Abstract: Methods of controllably creating three-dimensional (3D) combined-flow-interface patterns in multi-lane fluidic devices, and systems, apparatuses and software therefor. In one example, the 3D-pattern is created and varied as a function of one or more of the geometry of the inlets to a main fluidic channel in which the 3D-pattern is formed, the Reynolds number of the flows, the dimensions of the main fluidic channel and the inlets, and the spacing of adjacent inlets. In one embodiment particularly disclosed, differing 3D combined-flow-interface patterns are created using a three-lane fluidic device having a fixed inlet geometry. In another embodiment particularly disclosed, differing 3D combined-flow-interface patterns are created using a five-lane fluidic device having a fixed inlet geometry that can be used to effectively mimic variable inlet geometries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Carnegie Mellon University
    Inventors: Yong Tae Kim, William C. Messner, Philip R. LeDuc
  • Publication number: 20140066861
    Abstract: The present invention inter alia relates to a valve arrangement comprising at least two ports, a valve body and a valve piston, wherein the valve piston is at least partially movably arranged in the valve body, wherein the valve arrangement is configured to disable a fluid flow between the at least two ports in a first position of the valve piston in the valve body and to enable the fluid flow in a second position of the valve piston in the valve body, and wherein at least one port of the valve arrangement is arranged in the valve piston and at least one port of the valve arrangement is arranged in the valve body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: SANOFI-AVENTIS DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventor: Daniel Auernhammer
  • Publication number: 20130340848
    Abstract: A mixing valve includes a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and an outlet, first and second flow control valves for controlling the flow of hot and cold water. Each of the first and second flow control valves include a valve inlet, first and second valve outlets communicating with the outlet, and a valve member assembly to control the flow of water through the first and second valve outlets. Each valve member assembly includes a first valve member configured to engage with a first valve seat and a second valve member configured to engage with a second, separate, valve seat. The first valve member is configured to be urged closed by water entering through the valve inlet and the second valve member is configured to be urged open by water entering through the valve inlet such that water exerts substantially no net force on the valve members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: Kevin T. Peel
  • Patent number: 8613425
    Abstract: The valve (100) comprises a valve body (101), a valve seat insert (103) assembled to the valve body (101), and a valve seal member (120) compressively assembled to and sealing to both the valve body (101) and the valve seat insert (103), with the valve seal member (120) including one or more port apertures (202).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Fluid Automation Systems S.A
    Inventors: Raphael Alvarez, Pierre Sirdey
  • Patent number: 8567437
    Abstract: Provided is a system and method for producing resin cartridges that can be used in mine roof bolt applications. The system and method can be used to produce resin cartridges that contain a first portion that includes a resin and a catalyst that cure at a first speed when mixed together and a second portion that includes a resin and a catalyst that cure at a second speed when mixed together. The system can include a base material supply source, a plurality of branch lines, at least one altering material supply line in fluid communication with at least one branch line, a valve arrangement, a product line, and a packaging machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: J-Lok Co.
    Inventors: Charles B. Vogus, Walter John Simmons, John G. Oldsen
  • Patent number: 8555922
    Abstract: A faucet includes a body with a first fluid inlet, a second fluid inlet, an outlet and a neck portion with a central cavity defined therein, a mixing chamber positioned within the central cavity of the neck portion of the body, a timing mechanism coupled to the mixing chamber and an operating handle coupled to the timing mechanism that is movable along a longitudinal axis from a closed position to an open position. The mixing chamber is rotatable about the longitudinal axis and includes a first inlet port and a second inlet port in fluid communication with the first and second fluid inlets of the body, respectively, and an outlet port in fluid communication with the outlet of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Zurn Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Michael F. Migliore, Geoffrey D. Thorp, John R. Gustafson
  • Patent number: 8534318
    Abstract: To provide a water spouting device capable of switching between spouting and stopping, flow volume adjustment, and spouted water temperature adjustment with a single operating portion. The present invention is a water faucet device (1) furnished with a flow volume adjustment function and a temperature adjustment function, including: an operating portion (6) capable of being pressed and rotated by a user; and flow volume/temperature adjustment means (10), whereby in a stopped water state, spouting is commenced when the operating portion of this flow volume/temperature adjustment means is pressed; in a spouting state, spouted water flow volume is changed when the operating portion is pressed continuously for a predetermined long-press determining time; and water flow is stopped when pressing of the operating portion ceases in less than the long-press determining time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Toto Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Kanemaru, Kenichi Aoyagi, Masato Yamahigashi, Masateru Miyazaki, Tsuyoshi Miura
  • Patent number: 8505577
    Abstract: Regulated pneumatic gas is supplied through a gas supply tube (14) which is welded to a pilot valve housing (18) which accommodates a solenoid valve (16). When the solenoid valve is electrically activated and opened, the pneumatic gas flows through a bifurcated channel (22) which is welded to the pilot valve housing and to a fuel valve mechanism (24A) and to an oxidizer valve mechanism (24B). The force of the pneumatic gas causes pistons (38A, 38B) to actuate respective poppets (36A, 36B). Movement of the poppets results in the dispensing of fuel propellant from a fuel outlet chamber (44A) and the dispensing of oxidizer from an oxidizer outlet chamber (44B). The fuel valve mechanism and oxidizer valve mechanism are positioned and oriented such that the exiting fuel and oxidizer are mixed in a vortex rocket engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Daryoush M. Salehi, Roger P. Berry, Nathan P. Mathis, Robert S. Michaels
  • Patent number: 8485217
    Abstract: A plug valve for a gas stove, consisting at least of a natural-gas nozzle, a propane-gas nozzle, a valve body, a cock, an adjusting rod, an O-shaped ring, a stop ring, a spring, a stop plate, a cover, a pair of screws, and a valve rod. The adjusting rod, the O-shaped ring, and the stop ring are disposed in the cock, the cock, the spring, the stop plate, the cover, and the valve rod are disposed in the valve body via the screws, the natural-gas nozzle or the propane-gas nozzle is disposed in the valve body. Switching between natural gas and propane gas, flow adjustment thereof are convenient, and no special tool is required, which make the invention suitable for a wide range of users. The plug of he invention is safe and reliable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Ningbo Wanan Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Feng Zhang
  • Patent number: 8474481
    Abstract: A manual/automatic and cold/hot faucet with a ceramic valve includes a main body adopting a ceramic valve that is connected with an automatic water exit passage and a manual water exit passage. The ceramic valve has a fixing member and a sliding member, with the sliding member sliding against the fixing member to command water to flow into the automatic water exit passage or the manual water exit passage. So the faucet can give water automatically or manually. As the ceramic valve is excellently resistant to abrasion, the present faucet can thus be durable, not apt to get leaked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Hydrotek Corporation
    Inventor: Su Huang
  • Patent number: 8475550
    Abstract: A method for injecting a chemical, such as an odorant, from a chemical supply into a fluid-containing system such as a natural gas or an LPG pipeline. A tank of odorant is maintained at a pressure above ambient, but below pipeline pressure. An injection conduit communicates the odorant tank with the pipeline. A hydraulic pressure booster is located in the injection conduit for pressurizing the chemical to a pressure above that of the pipeline. Flow-control apparatus located within the injection conduit for metering chemical to be injected into the pipeline is either (a) drip-style metering valve adjustable between a drop-wise setting and a steady-flow setting or (b) a pair of valves one of which is a flow valve allowing larger volumes to be injected and the other which is a drop-wise flow valve for metering smaller volumes of the chemical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Sentry Equipment Corp.
    Inventor: Mark Zeck
  • Patent number: 8469054
    Abstract: The application relates to a control device comprising a control element that can be rotated on a first functional level, an electronic controller, an electric power supply, and a base for mounting the control device. Said control device is designed to control plumbing appliances comprising a water discharge point and an electronically controlled mixing valve that has a cold water connection and a hot water connection. The flow or the temperature of the water discharged from the water discharge point can be changed by rotating the control element. The control device according to the invention is characterized in that a second functional level can be assigned to the control element by means of an electronic or electric pulse. Said second functional level is mechanically identical to the first functional level. The temperature of the water discharged from the water discharge point can be changed by rotating the control element when the second functional level has been assigned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Oblamatik AG
    Inventors: Edo Lang, Roland Obrist
  • Patent number: 8464751
    Abstract: An oxygen content adjustment apparatus includes an oxygen content detector, a number of keys, a controller, an oxygen source, a first nozzle, a first valve, a flame retardant gas source, a second nozzle, and a second valve. The controller is connected to the oxygen content detector and the keys. A first terminal of the first valve is connected to the controller. A second terminal of the first valve is connected to the oxygen source. A third terminal of the first valve is connected to the first nozzle. A first terminal of the second valve is connected to the controller. A second terminal of the second valve is connected to the flame retardant gas source. A third terminal of the second valve is connected to the second nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsung-Han Su, Chun-Ming Chen
  • Patent number: 8454567
    Abstract: Multi-conduit connector apparatuses for use in negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) apparatuses to wound dressing, and methods for installing multi-conduit connector apparatuses in NPWT apparatuses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Justin Alexander Long, Aidan Marcus Tout, Larry Tab Randolph, Christopher Brian Locke
  • Patent number: 8443826
    Abstract: A demand valve for gas mixing comprises two or more flow control valves that are connected to separate gas supplies. The demand valve includes a common actuation mechanism, such as a diaphragm arranged to displace levers, each of which, in turn, opens and closes proportionally in a substantially constant ratio a respective flow control valve. Inhalation flow drawn through an outlet causes displacement of the diaphragm and hence opening of the flow control valves. Gas from the separate supplies is therefore mixed in a main chamber to a substantially constant composition, regardless of the flow rate demanded, before being dispensed via the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Concept 2 Manufacture Design OCD Ltd.
    Inventor: Andrew Tatarek
  • Patent number: 8434646
    Abstract: A mixed beverage dispense system and method for pumping a first liquid and a second liquid using a controlled gas source. The dispense system can include a first pump that pumps the first liquid and a second pump that pumps the second liquid. The first pump and the second pump can each include a gas inlet, an inlet gas connection, and an outlet gas connection. The dispense system can also include connector tubing connecting the controlled gas source to the first pump and the second pump in series. The dispense system can include a bag-in-box package with chambers that hold the liquid bags and a fitment with fitment openings open to each one of the chambers for receiving the liquids from the liquid bags. The dispense system can also include an outlet connector coupled to the fitment for receiving the liquids from the fitment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Everpure, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Saveliev, Kevin Carlson, Steven T. Jersey, Paul H. Bertsch
  • Patent number: 8397753
    Abstract: A hands free water system and method for use with an existing or new wash basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Harmon Houghton
  • Publication number: 20130047968
    Abstract: Three-way valve with two flaps comprising common control means (9) for the two flaps and actuation means (12, 13, 50) arranged each to drive, pivotwise, one of the two flaps, from one to the other of its open and closed position of one of the pathways, with a temporal phase-shift, such that, in a first stage the common control means pivot the second flap, the first flap remaining in a waiting position under the action of return means, and in a second stage, said control means, while continuing to pivot the second flap, begin to pivot the first flap, characterized in that said second actuation means (12, 50) comprises a return driving means (71) making it possible to pivot the second flap (5) to its first position under the action of the common control means (9) in the case of a failure of said return means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: Valeo Systemes de Controle Moteur
    Inventors: Grégory Hodebourg, Sébastien Adenot
  • Publication number: 20130047967
    Abstract: Three-way valve with two flaps comprising single control means (9) for the two flaps and actuation means (12, 13, 50) arranged each to drive, pivotwise, one of the two flaps, from one to the other of its open and closed position of one of the pathways, with a temporal phase-shift, characterized in that it comprises maximum displacement end-stops for each of said actuation means, the end-stop (31) of the second actuation means (12, 50) corresponding to a fully closed position of its flap and the end-stop of the first actuation means (13) being positioned beyond the position of said first actuation means when the second actuation means (12, 50) is on its end-stop (31), the kinematic chains linking the first and second actuation means to the single control means operating nominally.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: VALEO SYSTEMES DE CONTROLE MOTEUR
    Inventors: Grégory Hodebourg, Sébastien Adenot
  • Publication number: 20130025720
    Abstract: A hydraulic control valve for a construction machine is disclosed, which can variably control the flow of hydraulic fluid that is supplied to a hydraulic cylinder to drive a working device. The hydraulic control valve for a construction machine includes a valve block in which an inlet port and an outlet port that communicates with the inlet port is formed, a check valve provided with a first throttling portion to permit the flow of the hydraulic fluid from the inlet port to the outlet port and to variably control the flow of the hydraulic fluid from the outlet port to the inlet port, and a spool provided with a second throttling portion to variably control the flow of the hydraulic fluid from the outlet port to the inlet port through the check valve that is opened when the second throttling portion is shifted by pilot signal pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB
    Inventor: Bon Seuk Ku
  • Patent number: 8349038
    Abstract: A system is shown for injecting a chemical, such as an odorant, from a chemical supply into a fluid containing system such as a natural gas pipeline or an LPG pipeline. A tank of odorant is maintained at a pressure above ambient, but below the pressure of the pipeline. An injection conduit communicates the odorant tank with the pipeline. A hydraulic pressure booster is located in the injection conduit for pressurizing the chemical to a pressure above that of the pipeline, the hydraulic booster having a first side which communicates with the chemical in the injection conduit and another, isolated side which is exposed to hydraulic pressure but which is isolated from the chemical being injected. A flow control valve may be located within the injection conduit for metering chemical to be injected into the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Sentry Equipment Corp.
    Inventor: Mark Zeck
  • Patent number: 8336309
    Abstract: A turbocharger wastegate valve assembly comprises a first bypass port communicating with a first portion of an exhaust inlet and a first valve member adapted for engaging and sealing a first valve seat surrounding the first bypass port. The valve assembly further comprises a second bypass port communicating with a second portion of an exhaust inlet and a second valve member adapted for engaging and sealing a second valve seat surrounding the second port. A shaft supports each valve member for rotation about a shaft axis to lift both the first and second valve members from sealing engagement with the first and second valve seats respectively. The first valve seat is inclined relative to the second valve seat and the shaft has freedom of movement in the axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Cummins Turbo Technologies Limited
    Inventors: Jim McEwan, Lee Robinson
  • Patent number: 8307851
    Abstract: A water flow regulation system includes a pair of water valves having turnable stems for controlling water flow through the valves and a pair of pinions, one fixed to each of the valve stems. A toothed rack is provided which is sized and configured for engagement with the pinions. A housing supports the valves and rack with teeth of both pinions engaging the rack teeth in order that translational movement of the rack causes simultaneous rotation of the pinions with concomitant simultaneous opening and closing of the valves. A remote control and a sheathed cable interconnecting said remote control and the rack are provided for operation of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: 456Corp
    Inventor: Marc Warsowe
  • Patent number: 8281814
    Abstract: A water supply valve cartridge in which a flow rate control rotary disk has a reduced size, so that surface friction between the flow rate control rotary disk and a flow rate control fixed disk is minimized, thus improving manipulation efficiency of the water supply valve while opening or closing the valve, and which does not sensitively respond to flatness allowance due to the reduced size of the rotary disk, thus executing stable opening and closing operation. The flow rate control fixed disk (140) has water discharge holes (142). The flow rate control rotary disk (150) has a diameter to cover only the area around the water discharge holes (142), with a pair of flow rate control grooves (151) formed on the rotary disk (150) to open only the water discharge holes (142) during rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: Jong Koo Kim
  • Publication number: 20120234399
    Abstract: A shuttle valve has a housing with a plurality of inlet ports, an outlet port for fluid flow, and a passageway for fluid to flow from any one of the inlet ports to the outlet port. Each Inlet port has an associated plunger configured one to the other such that when sufficient pressurized fluid is flowing into any one of the inlet ports, fluid is prevented from flowing into any other inlet port. The plungers include male and female mating portions with a radial seal between them. A biasing spring allows one of the plungers to allow backward fluid flow through the associated inlet port when not under pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventor: Barry J. McMiles
  • Patent number: 8267328
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fitting, in particular a washstand or bathtub fitting comprising an electronic control device for controlling a mixing device or a shut-off device for closing a pipe and an operating device, which is formed by a plate which is contact-sensitive and/or which is provided with proximity switches, for operating the control device. The plate is embodied in such a manner that at least two parameters from a group comprising a temperature parameter, a dispensing parameter, a volume flow rate parameter and a time parameter can be set at the same time by means of a sweeping motion, which is executed on the surface of said plate, by means of selectively touching different areas of the surface thereof and/or by means of a contact-free motion in front of the surface thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventors: Achim Pohl, Tomas Fiegl
  • Patent number: 8105139
    Abstract: The present invention refers to an air control device (1), in particular for a heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning installation for automotive vehicles, comprising a housing (3) having two apertures (4, 5). It comprises two dampers (6, 7) with at least one portion of sealing. Dampers (6, 7) have a lower part comprising a U-shaped section (22?, 22?) defining a groove (39) operating conjointly with a portion having an inverted U shape (46) of housing (3) to create another portion of sealing. Housing (3) has a lower part (30?, 30?) comprising a groove (47) operating conjointly with a rib (43) disposed on the spiral (13) whereon housing (3) is mounted to define a further portion of sealing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Valeo Sistemas Automotivos LTDA
    Inventor: Micael Mateus
  • Publication number: 20110214769
    Abstract: Valve assemblies are provided that have a selection member engaged with a housing to provide control of fluid communication between first and second fluid pathways. Positioning the selection member within a selection cavity of the housing provides fluid communication with a corresponding fluid pathway. An optional locking member can engage the valve assembly to prevent fluid communication with at least one fluid pathway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventors: John C. ESCHE, Leila M. RUBIN, David Eugene HANSEN
  • Publication number: 20110088799
    Abstract: A digital faucet system includes a faucet, data input unit, a sense unit, an adjusting unit and a control unit. The data input unit includes a display panel for displaying a temperature and a flow rate of mixed water from the faucet, and a touch screen for generating temperature input data and flow rate input data. The sense unit generates temperature sensing data and flow rate sensing data by detecting the temperature and the flow rate of the mixed water. The adjusting unit adjusts the temperature and the flow rate of the mixed water. The control unit controls the adjusting unit to adjust the temperature and the flow rate of the mixed water based on the temperature input data, the flow rate input data, the temperature sensing data and the flow rate sensing data. The temperature and the flow rate of the mixed water may be automatically and simultaneously adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventor: Woo-Chong Jung
  • Patent number: 7922152
    Abstract: A valve element opening/closing device may include a main body formed with a space, an inflow pipe and an outflow pipe which are connected to the main body, a valve element for opening and closing a flow passage, and a drive part for driving the valve element to open and close the flow passage. The valve element may be arranged on an inflow pipe side with respect an opening of the main body to which the inflow pipe is connected. The valve element is preferably arranged within the inflow pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Nidec Sankyo Corporation
    Inventor: Tetsuhiko Hara
  • Patent number: 7918241
    Abstract: A control valve for a faucet includes a valve housing, a hollow valve seat, two sealing gaskets, at least one water outlet channel, a rotation plate, a control unit, two mounting seats, a fixed sleeve, and a movable sleeve. Thus, the movable sleeve is movable in the fixed sleeve to control the water flow rate of the mixed cold and hot water to the optimum value to regulate and stabilize the water pressure automatically so as to provide a pressure balance effect so that the mixed water flowing from the water outlet channel is kept at a constant temperature, thereby providing a comfortable sensation to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Hain Yo Enterprises Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chia-Po Chang
  • Patent number: 7850323
    Abstract: A control cartridge (20) is inserted into the fitting housing (10). Mounted on the actuating shaft (38) of said cartridge is an actuating body (42) on which the tubular actuating lever (50) is fastened. A light guiding element (52) runs through the actuating lever (50). The light source (66) in the actuating body (42) emits light that is guided to the end of the actuating lever (50) by means of the light guiding element (52).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignees: KWC AG, Schott AG
    Inventors: Oliver Keiper, Michael Lehner, André Leutwyler, Michael Lammel
  • Patent number: 7814748
    Abstract: An exhaust bypass valve assembly for an internal combustion engine includes an exhaust bypass valve having valve structure coupled to a rotatable shaft such that rotation of the shaft moves the valve structure between opened and closed positions. An actuator is disposed remotely from the bypass valve for selectively causing rotation of the shaft associated with the valve structure in opposing directions. Linkage structure is connected between the actuator and the shaft to transfer motion of actuator to the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Canada, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Peter Nydam, David Thibault
  • Patent number: 7802733
    Abstract: A fluid delivery control system including a rotatable flow control member to provide a flow control signal to a controller and a rotatable temperature control member to provide a temperature control signal to a controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventor: Randall Paul Schmitt
  • Patent number: 7802588
    Abstract: A three-way poppet valve that can restrict or eliminate backflow without the use of an external check valve. Unlike conventional three-way poppet valves wherein both inlets can be open to the outlet at the same time during movement of the poppet, the valve according to the present invention can be configured to close both inlets prior to opening one of the inlets to the outlet. The valve features a poppet valve assembly that is operable to prevent both inlets from being open to the outlet at the same time. The valve assembly also reduces the force needed to close the valve against at least one of the inlets thereby allowing the use of a smaller actuator. A unique seal including a valve seat that is configured to conform to a valve member under sufficient pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventor: Michael L. Doutt
  • Patent number: 7717129
    Abstract: A flow control device includes a fitting having three portals. One of the portals is an entry portal for a liquid, one of the portals is an entry portal for a gas, and the other portal is an exit portal for either the liquid or the gas. A normally closed back flow prevention valve is located in fitting. The back flow prevention valve prevents back flow of liquid through the fitting. The fitting and the backflow prevention valve also minimize or eliminate the formation of air bubbles in the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Alcon, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis L. Steppe, John C. Huculak, Robert J. Sanchez, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100025609
    Abstract: A mount for a device, such as a faucet controller or valve actuator assembly for mounting the device to a sink or basin having carrier arm mounting holes. A valve actuator assembly for operating a valve for a sink or basin and operable with a push pad, the valve actuator assembly having a housing mountable to the sink or basin, the housing supporting a shaft and a valve, the shaft rotatable between a normal at rest position and a valve operating position, a rocker operably connected with a shaft, for rotation with the shaft, the rocker having an extent for operably urging a member supporting the valve when the shaft in is the valve operating position, and a push pad mechanism operably connected with the shaft and the push pad to selectively activate the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: Tapmaster Incorporated
    Inventors: Peter A. Pubben, Gregory Vincent Browne, Scott Phillips, Chris Denny
  • Publication number: 20090314363
    Abstract: The invention relates to a concealed sanitary fitting with a base body that can be connected to at least one water supply- or drain pipe. The concealed sanitary fitting contains at least one functional component that contains at least one water channel, with the functional component attached detachably to the base body with a clamping device in such a way that the water supply- or drain pipe is connected to the water channel in a water conducting manner. The clamping device engages with the functional component in the direction of insertion, when viewed from the side, in such a way that the functional component can be connected to and disconnected from the clamping device by means of a movement parallel to the surface of the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: HANSA METALLWERKE AG
    Inventor: Heinz Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7533697
    Abstract: A valve assembly (10) comprises a valve body (20), a first valve (22a), a second valve (22b), and a manual override device (24). The valve body (20) defines a first inlet (30a), a second inlet (30b), and an outlet (32). Each valve (22a/22b) includes a plunger (68a/68b) that is electrically movable between a position whereat the corresponding inlet (30a/30b) communicates with the outlet (32) and a position whereat the inlet (30a/30b) is sealed from the outlet (32). The override device (24) is manually movable to override positions whereat the electrical control of one of the valves (22a/22b) is overridden and the plunger's seat-sealing surface (72a/72b) is caused to move so that the corresponding inlet (30a/30b) communicates with the outlet (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Robert W. Zeiner, Robert W. Carlson
  • Publication number: 20090071557
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved rotary ceramic chip of a water control ceramic valve, which is used to address the problems arising from rapid linking or misalignment of the through-flow slot of a typical rotary ceramic chip and water inlet of fixed ceramic chip. The rotary ceramic chip is assembled between a braking element and fixed ceramic chip of the water control ceramic valve. At the bottom of the rotary ceramic chip, there is an upward recessing through-flow slot, which is provided with a first slot portion and a second slot portion. A bleed groove is placed laterally onto the second slot portion. When the second slot portion is linked to or misaligned with a water inlet of the fixed ceramic chip, the bleed groove enables slowdown or gradual change of the water pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventor: Shao Pin PENG
  • Publication number: 20090071558
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved rotary ceramic chip of a water control ceramic valve, which is used to address a typical problem, namely, the rising temperature of water control ceramic valve elements. A bypass slot is laterally placed onto the first slot portion of a through-flow slot of the rotary ceramic chip for a water control ceramic valve. When the second slot portion is linked to a hot water inlet of the fixed ceramic chip, the bypass slot is connected to cold water inlet of the fixed ceramic chip. Cold water of predefined flow is guided into through-flow slot to reduce slightly the temperature of hot water, thereby protecting components of the water control ceramic valve and extending the service life of the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventor: Shao Pin PENG
  • Publication number: 20090032111
    Abstract: A fluid mixing device is described that is suitable for use in an analyte detection system. For example, intersecting fluid passageways having flow cross-sections are described. One or more of the fluid passageways can have one or more fluid mixing chambers, and the fluid mixing chamber(s) can have a wider cross-section than other portions of the fluid passageways. A mixing fluid can be introduced into a flow of main fluid at an intersection between fluid passageways, and fluid flow can be regulated by flow regulating devices or valves that are operatively associated with the fluid passageways. A controller can control fluid movement, for example, by controlling the valves. Fluid mixing can be facilitated by disruption of laminar flow. Turbulent flow can be introduced by the shape or width or position of fluid mixing chamber(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Applicant: OptiScan Biomedical Corporation
    Inventors: Roger Tong, Jeffrey T. Chiou
  • Patent number: 7472433
    Abstract: A method of controlling a flow of liquid includes calibrating a PSD infrared sensor associated with the spout. The calibrating includes turning on the spout to thereby dispense a stream of liquid from the spout and into a stream space; emitting infrared energy from the PSD infrared sensor and toward the stream of liquid; sensing a first position of the infrared energy after the infrared energy has been reflected back to the sensor from the stream of liquid; storing first information based upon the first position of the reflected infrared energy; turning off the spout to thereby inhibit the liquid from being dispensed from the spout; sensing a second position of the infrared energy after the infrared energy has been reflected back to the sensor from an object that is fixed relative to the sensor; and storing second information based upon the second position of the reflected infrared energy. Infrared energy is emitted from the PSD infrared sensor and toward the stream space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Robert Wilmer Rodenbeck, Brian D. Rau
  • Publication number: 20080202611
    Abstract: A control cartridge (20) is inserted into the fitting housing (10). Mounted on the actuating shaft (38) of said cartridge is an actuating body (42) on which the tubular actuating lever (50) is fastened. A light guiding element (52) runs through the actuating lever (50). The light source (66) in the actuating body (42) emits light that is guided to the end of the actuating lever (50) by means of the light guiding element (52).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: KWC AG
    Inventors: Oliver Keiper, Michael Lehner, Andre Leutwyler, Michael Lammel
  • Patent number: 7389793
    Abstract: A faucet device includes a block disposed in a faucet member and having two passages for receiving hot and cold water and having an entrance and an exit coupled to a solenoid valve, a housing disposed in the faucet member and having two ports aligned with the entrance and the exit of the block and an outlet for supplying the water out of the faucet member. A controlling device may control the water to selectively flow through the ports of the housing to allow the faucet device to be selectively operated either manually or automatically. A valve shank may control the hot water and the cold water to flow through the passages and to be mixed in the block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventor: Hsiang Hung Wang
  • Patent number: 7367351
    Abstract: A tap pressure balance valve for maintaining normal operation of the tap has a coil spring and a cut-off washer disposed in a though hole of a secondary case at where in relation to a water outlet provided on a deck of a primary case for the coil spring to push against the cut-off to maintain water tight between the through hole of the secondary case and the water outlet of the primary case so to avoid seepage from the interface where both cases are incorporated to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Inventor: Cheng-Wsiung Wu
  • Patent number: 7350672
    Abstract: A manually actuated dispensing gun can deliver different fluids to be mixed. The gun has a body assembly with first and second valves. A lever arm manually actuates the valves. A cap has first and second fluid inlets that are coupled to respective controlled fluid outlets of the valves. The cap has a duct that opens into and runs from a first inlet to a first cap outlet, and another duct that opens into and runs from the second inlet to a second cap outlet without opening into the other duct. One of the ducts has a larger cross-section flow area along its entire length than the other. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Horst Gerich
  • Patent number: 7350580
    Abstract: A coupling switches control fluid from a tubing hanger to a downhole completion of a subsea well. The coupling, located between a tubing hanging running tool and a downhole completion, includes a coupling body and a tubing hanger. A hydraulic poppet switches control fluid flow from a first and second flow path. The hydraulic poppet includes an isolation sleeve for opening and closing a first and second inlet port. At least two perimeter seals provide fluid isolation for the first flow path. A retainer seal seals the coupling body against the second inlet port. A retaining sleeve holds the coupling body against the tubing hanger. A first and second circumferential seal are located on opposite ends between the coupling body and tubing hanger. The hydraulic poppet is adapted to move perimeter seals and the retainer seal to open and close the first and second inlet ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Aker Kvaerner Subsea, Inc.
    Inventor: Marcio Laureano
  • Patent number: 7328718
    Abstract: A pressure regulator (10) includes a changeover regulator (12) with plural inlets (16, 18). Inside the regulator, each inlet has a closure member (62) connected to a diaphragm (100) for control of the closure members (62) in response to pressure inside the regulator (12). Biasing members (56) are stabilized in position by either an apertured plate (102), a cup (104) or both. A changeover handle (19) depresses one spring (56) or the other to bias one closure member (62) open to admit gas from the associated inlet (16 or 18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: S.H. Leggitt Company
    Inventors: Charles M. Olds, Edward R. Lee