With Common Valve Operator Patents (Class 137/607)
  • Patent number: 5671767
    Abstract: A gas mixing valve has first and second inlet chambers linked to supplies of a first and second gas, and a mixing chamber having a blended gas outlet. The inlet chambers are connected to the mixing chamber via first and second control valves, each valve having a valve seat and valve member with opposing surfaces defining a flow control orifice. Each valve seat and valve member are relatively movable between a closed position in which no flow occurs and a maximum opening position to define a series of orifices of progressively increasing area corresponding to the same geometrical progression. The position of each valve member can be controlled to provide a desired mixing ratio. Each valve seat is provided in a respective piston, and the pistons are tied together to move in response to variations in pressure drop across each piston, in order to vary the orifice size to compensate for changes in flow rate without changing the mixing ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Assignee: Infrasonics, Inc.
    Inventor: Edmund F. Kelly
  • Patent number: 5664598
    Abstract: A valve includes a chamber and two inlets for supplying cold and hot water into the chamber. A membrane is secured in the chamber so as to separate the inlets from each other. Two plugs are engaged in the inlets and secured to the membrane for blocking the inlets. Two springs are engaged on the plugs for balancing the membrane and the plugs. One of the plugs is forced to block one of the inlet when no water is supplied from the other inlet, so as to prevent the users from being hurt by hot water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: Ming-Don Shieh
  • Patent number: 5632299
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the mixing of water and steam introduced via seperate closable supply lines into a mixing vessel wherein the water-to-steam ratio can be changed and wherein the steam supply can be automatically stopped if the water pressure drops below a given value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Inventor: Karl Weinhold
  • Patent number: 5611462
    Abstract: A portable cleaning device dispenses at least a first cleaning fluid and a second cleaning fluid. The device includes at least two user controllable fluid dispensing devices, a frame means, a first fluid reservoir for holding the first cleaning fluid, a first pump for pumping the first cleaning fluid from the first reservoir, and a first manifold for receiving the first cleaning fluid from the first pump, and distributing it to a first line set comprising a plurality of lines. The lines deliver the first cleaning fluid to the fluid dispensing devices. A second fluid reservoir holds a second cleaning fluid, such as water, and delivers it to a second pump which pumps the second cleaning fluid to a second manifold. The second manifold includes a plurality of exit ports for distributing the second fluid to a plurality of second lines which deliver the second cleaning fluid to the fluid dispensing devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1997
    Assignee: Pure Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Barkes
  • Patent number: 5595216
    Abstract: A faucet for discharging water automatically or manually includes a body which supports a single flow control valve mechanism, a manual actuation mechanism which operates the flow control valve mechanism, and an electrical actuation mechanism which operates the flow control valve mechanism independently of the automatic actuation mechanism. The faucet may be centrally mounted behind two adjacent sink bowls and positionable over each of the bowls to discharge water. Electrical detection means mounted behind one of the bowls detects the presence of a user of that bowl and automatically actuates the faucet in response thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Inventor: Joseph J. Pilolla
  • Patent number: 5590686
    Abstract: Liquid delivery systems, for example, for use in providing liquid chemicals to a plurality of individual laundry wash machines, are disclosed. The present systems employ a single flow meter to effectively measure the amount of liquid chemical to be delivered. The present systems, in addition, provide for effective liquid chemical leak detection, and positive proof that the liquid chemical has been delivered to the individual wash machine. A control assembly is preferably included which automatically controls the operation of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Assignee: Dober Chemical Corp.
    Inventor: Frank T. Prendergast
  • Patent number: 5573037
    Abstract: A valve cartridge is provided. The valve cartridge includes a cartridge retainer having a cartridge axis and a generally cylindrical sidewall having first and second openings and first and second pinch tubes disposed within the cartridge retainer. The pinch tubes respectively have tube axes substantially parallel to the cartridge axis and axial bores therethrough. The valve cartridge also includes first and second poppets disposed in the first and second openings and movable in a direction not parallel with the tube axes for engagement respectively with the pinch tubes, and an actuator rotatable about and movable along the cartridge axis and encircling the cartridge retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: George S. Cole & Associates, Incorporated
    Inventors: George S. Cole, Harry W. Edwards
  • Patent number: 5546983
    Abstract: The invention provides a quick-acting shut-off valve for hydraulic installations, particularly for pressure balanced mixing valves such as might be used in a shower/tub installation. The shut-off valve includes a casing mounted to the installation housing adjacent an inlet port thereof, there being a reciprocable actuator sealingly retained within the casing for direct movement between first and second positions. The actuator carries a valve member at a distal end thereof for sealingly blocking the inlet port when the actuator is in its second position. When the actuator is in its first position the inlet port is open to normal water flow therethrough. The actuator utilizes a simple push-on, push-off ratchet mechanism to effect movement between the two operating positions thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: Friedrich Grohe Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Manamohan Clare
  • Patent number: 5544674
    Abstract: A gas mixing valve has first and second inlet chambers linked to supplies of a first and second gas, and a mixing chamber having a blended gas outlet. The inlet chambers are connected to the mixing chamber via first and second control valves, each valve having a valve seat and valve member with opposing Surfaces defining a flow control orifice. Each valve seat and valve member are relatively movable between a closed position in which no flow occurs and a maximum opening position to define a series of orifices of progressively increasing area corresponding to the same geometrical progression. The position of each valve member can be controlled to provide a desired mixing ratio. Each valve seat is provided in a respective piston, and the pistons are tied together to move in response to variations in pressure drop across each piston, in order to vary the orifice size to compensate for changes in flow rate without changing the mixing ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Assignee: Infrasonics, Inc.
    Inventor: Edmund F. Kelly
  • Patent number: 5540251
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for precision batch or continuous flow blending of gases are described. Pulsatile precision metering valves having substantially zero dead space are employed to introduce gases to a mixing chamber or manifold in predictable uniform quantities to achieve precision gas blends according to predetermined criteria. During batch processing, gases to be blended are repeatedly characterized by the change in mixing vessel pressure with respect to time immediately after blending. Estimates of additional amounts of a given gas to be added to achieve a desired final partial pressure of the given gas in the mixing vessel are based on empirical data previously measured and stored for the gas in question.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Inventor: Paul H. Mayeaux
  • Patent number: 5524862
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a mixer valve with electronic control, which incorporates a group of valves (27) arranged in a housing (26) provided in the valve body axially to the coupling (22) which defines the water outlet duct towards the supply mouth. The group of valves consists of a diaphragm valve (30), which is made of an elastic material and essentially has the shape of a small bowl, arranged at the level of a valve seat (32) on the inside of the outlet duct (21), and the group consists of a stop valve (31) which is controlled by an electromagnet (29). The diaphragm valve (30) delimits an internal chamber (35), which communicates, from one component (A), with a mixed water supply duct (24), and from another component (B), with an outlet port (C) which is connected to the drain duct (21) and which is opened and closed by the stop valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Assignee: Sol S.p.A.
    Inventor: Enrico Feraboli
  • Patent number: 5505227
    Abstract: A faucet control device to provide asepsis and conservation of water consisting of a diaphragm valve block connected inline between the hot and cold water supply and faucet. Pilot hot and cold water pressure from said valve block is routed through three flexible conduit assemblies to a three-way valve remotely located to facilitate operation by knee, foot or elbow. The application of force to the three way valves cycles the diaphragm valve block from the closed to open position while preventing crossflow between the hot and cold water supplies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventor: Peter A. Pubben
  • Patent number: 5490536
    Abstract: A pinch tube proportioning valve includes support structure defining an elongated valve cavity having a longitudinal axis and a pair of spaced resilient valve tubes disposed in the cavity and respectively providing communication between two fluid supply conduits and a fluid outlet. A control cam cartridge is receivable in the valve cavity between the valve tubes. The cartridge includes a cylindrical housing closed at one end and carrying at its closed end a guide pin extending axially up through the housing and receivable in an axial bore in an elongated tapered cam member, which is telescopically received in the open end of the housing. Diametrically opposed openings are formed in the side wall of the housing for receiving the valve tubes to permit engagement thereof by the cam member, which is axially and rotatably movable to control proportioning and flow rate through the valve tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1996
    Assignee: George S. Cole & Associates, Incorporated
    Inventors: George S. Cole, Harry W. Edwards
  • Patent number: 5477988
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing gun is provided which is manually operated by a lever arm and cam mechanism. As an operator draws the lever arm to an open flow position, a pivot plate displaces a cam bar to which is attached a valve stem. This causes movement of the valve stem away from a valve opening and permits fluid flow. A U-shaped stem housing and an open tubular spring housing provide convenient access for axial adjustment of the valve stem and compression adjustment of the valve spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Inventor: Horst Gerich
  • Patent number: 5477884
    Abstract: A valve system for mixing two pressurized liquids, A and B, in varying proportions ranging from 0% liquid A, 100% liquid B to 100% liquid A, 0% liquid B comprises two liquid inlet passages, a mixture outlet passage, and a spool valve disposed therebetween for directing the desired proportions of liquid to the outlet passage. The liquid proportions are adjusted by rotating the spool valve between two predetermined stops thereby allowing incoming fluids to flow at different rates into offset bores extending through the spool valve. Such a valve system is useful in vehicle and aircraft cleaning systems wherein one liquid comprises a soap solution and the other comprises water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Assignee: Pure Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Barkes
  • Patent number: 5469886
    Abstract: In a solenoid valve comprising a first solenoid valve for regulating pressure and a second multifunctional solenoid valve integrated with the first solenoid valve, even if a solenoid of the first solenoid valve is energized, a diaphragm valve of the solenoid valve is not immediately opened, thereby providing a safe and compact solenoid valve. The first solenoid valve comprises a first spring provided between the upper end of a plunger which is movable by the solenoid and stator, while the lower end of the plunger is disposed to be brought into contact with the diaphragm valve and a second spring is provided for urging the diaphragm valve in the direction to close it even if the plunger is moved away from the diaphragm valve and the second solenoid valve which is integrated with said solenoid valve for controlling to selectively open or close a closing valve and a one way valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Assignee: Kyosan Denki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tamotsu Noya
  • Patent number: 5449023
    Abstract: A multi-fluid flow control device comprising an elongate horizontal body with front and rear ends, a fluid-conducting chamber in the rear end portion of the body, fluid inlet and outlet openings communicating with the chamber, an elongate bore in the body between the chamber and the front end thereof, and, water inlet and outlet ports communicating with the bore; an elongate valve part with front and rear ends and a transverse water transfer passage with laterally opening upstream and downstream ends and slidably engaged in the bore and shiftable longitudinally therein from a rear position where the upstream and downstream ends of the passage register with the inlet and outlet ports to direct water entering the inlet port out through the outlet port and a forward position where said ends of the passage are out of register with said ports and water entering the inlet port is directed rearwardly through the bore in and into the chamber; a central opening in the valve part between the front end thereof and the p
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Robert L. Cleland
    Inventors: Robert K. Cleland, William C. Boettcher
  • Patent number: 5441075
    Abstract: The invention relates to a shower control valve assembly which includes a casing mountable in a wall with inlets for hot and cold water. A cartridge is insertable into the casing in one of two orientations so that the hot water inlet of the cartridge can be aligned with either one of the casing inlets, depending on which one is the hot water inlet. The casing has two outlets, one for the shower and the other for the tub. There is an integral bypass which takes water from the tub outlet to the shower outlet upon activation of a diverter valve. The cartridge is of the pressure and temperature balancing type, with water of the desired temperature flowing to the tub outlet and then to the tub or shower as desired. The cartridge uses a rotatable mixing valve disc having arcuate ports therethrough for hot and cold water, each port being alignable with a corresponding passage in the cartridge that communicates with an inlet chamber for water of the appropriate temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1995
    Assignee: Friedrich Grohe Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Manamohan Clare
  • Patent number: 5435332
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for mixing gases with each other, said apparatus comprising at least two channels (1, 2) for flowing a gas therein and regulating elements (10, 11) fitted in these channels for controlling a flow progressing in the channels. One channel includes a restricting element (12) connected in series with regulating element (11) for adjusting a maximum value for a gas flowing there through, said restricting element being linked through the intermediary of a coupling assembly (15) to regulating element (10) in one channel such that the operations of regulating element (10) and restricting element (12) are linked together.The invention relates also to a method for combining gases together at a desired ratio, said gases flowing in at least two different channels (1, 2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: Instrumentarium Corp.
    Inventor: Erkki Heinonen
  • Patent number: 5400818
    Abstract: Concentrations of stock hydrogen peroxide-peracetic acid solutions can be monitored resistively. The resistivity cell electrodes have titanium surfaces which resist corrosion better than other electrode materials including platinum electrodes. Such resistivity monitoring is particularly useful to verify the concentrations of sterilant stock solutions used in machinery for cleaning and sterilizing medical and dental equipment such as dialyzer reuse machines. Over the temperature range of interest the resistivity measurement is substantially not affected by changes of temperature in the room temperature range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Assignee: Minntech Corporation
    Inventors: Louis C. Cosentino, David C. Gust, Roger L. Funk, Gerald J. Rinehart, Vernon S. Taaffe
  • Patent number: 5390690
    Abstract: A mixing valve housing containing two separated inlet chambers and a plurality of valve units which are individually operated from remote positions provides mixed fluid through outlet lines from the individual valve units to destinations remote from the valve housing. An optional flow equalizing apparatus provides balance in the amount of flow from the inlet chambers to each valve unit outlet. All of the valve units in the valve housing have alternative mechanical systems that can be operated using commercial power source or utilize the pressure of the fluid in the inlet chambers for operation. By connecting these mixing valve housings to a pair of centrally located, pressurized headers the need for constant pressure in delivery conduits throughout a structure is eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Inventor: Alexandru Blaga
  • Patent number: 5351715
    Abstract: A coating material color change system includes a manifold having a first passageway through which a selected color flows during its selection, a plurality of coating material passageways intersecting the main passageway, and an equal plurality of coating material supply valves mounted to the manifold. Each coating material supply valve has a body and a member movable in the interior of the valve body for controlling the flow of the coating material to be supplied by that coating material supply valve through a respective coating material passageway to the main passageway, and a mechanism for actuating the member. The mechanism is controllable by a superatmospheric pressure fluid signal selectively to control the position of the member and thus the supply of the coating material to the first passageway. The manifold and valve bodies include second passageways and means for coupling the second passageways to a source of operating fluid under superatmospheric pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Assignee: ABB Flakt, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew D. Byam
  • Patent number: 5351347
    Abstract: A proximity controlled sanitary fitting is provided with a manually operated electric selector switch (6) which is formed the same way as a handle of a conventional manually operated sanitary fitting. The selector switch (6) can be see in various operating positions associated to different operating modes of the sanitary fitting. Among these operating modes there are in particular the following ones: normal detection of a user; deactivation of the non-tactile detection; and opening the fitting regardless of the electronic detection. Thus the electric selector switch can be optically integrated into the design of the sanitary fleeing in a way readily accepted by the public.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Assignee: Hansa Metallwerke AG
    Inventor: Horst Kunkel
  • Patent number: 5349985
    Abstract: The plumbing fixture, which can be actuated without physical contact, has a water line that is connected to a source of water and has a water outlet. A shut-off valve is disposed in the water line downstream of a mixer valve. A control unit controls the shut-off valve as a function of control signals from a proximity-sensitive sensor. A turbine is disposed in the water line for supplying electrical energy to the control unit. Permanent magnets are distributed equidistantly about an outer periphery of a wheel of the turbine. At the level of the permanent magnets, at least two magnet coils are provided in a tubular section of the water line. The coils cooperate with the permanent magnets to form a generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1994
    Assignee: Cosmos Entwicklungs-und Forschungsanstalt
    Inventor: Gerhard Fischer
  • Patent number: 5344067
    Abstract: A regulating unit for a hot and cold water mixing valve includes a pressure responsive part having a piston slide 60, and a temperature responsive part which is influenced by a thermostat 45 and which includes a regulating valve body 50 which is axially moveable and optionally included in an insert which can be screwed into the mixing valve. The regulating valve body and the piston slide are mutually concentrical and one of these two components is received at least partially in the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Assignee: FM Mattsson AB
    Inventors: Bo E. K. Axelsson, Henry E. Krang
  • Patent number: 5322084
    Abstract: The present invention is a foot operated control device that provides variable control by means of a single foot pedal. The foot operated control device can be locked to allow continuous unattended operation. The foot pedal can be flipped into an upper position, for example into a cabinet. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the foot operated control device comprises a foot operated faucet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1994
    Assignee: Hilltop Corporation
    Inventor: Hassan Ghiassian
  • Patent number: 5322086
    Abstract: A faucet-control device which enables users to control water flow in a basin fixture (10) by leaning against the front of the fixture (10) with a lower limb. Eight embodiments (A-H) are described. A normally-closed, electrically-controlled valve (16, 44, 46, or 62) controls water flow. A thin, flat, normally-open, momentary-contact, pressure-actuated mat switch (14) controls the valve (16, 44, 46, or 62). Any user in a normal stance may activate the mat switch (14) by applying a small pressure with a lower limb. In Embodiment A, activating the mat switch (14) opens the valve(s) (16), allowing water to flow. In Embodiment B, two stacked mat switches (14 and 14A) control a two-stage valve (44). In Embodiment C, a capacitive mat (50) enables the user to select continuously variable flow rates with a lower limb. A servo-drive circuit (48) converts variable capacitance from the capacitive mat (50) to an amplified current which drives a servo valve (46).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1994
    Inventor: Robert A. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5309940
    Abstract: Device which can be fitted to a faucet in order to trigger the automatic issuance of water.Said device is integrally joined to the operating unit of said faucet and consists of a cylindrical body (3) housing a detection cell (5), said cylindrical body being placed in a cavity (41) in said operating unit and being integrally joined to the control unit (6) of said faucet, with said faucet including a window (61) positioned facing said cylindrical body (3) for the passage of the rays (62) which are necessary for the operation of said detection cell (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: Delabie S.A.
    Inventors: Gerard Delabie, Marcel Normand
  • Patent number: 5307837
    Abstract: Water valve apparatus with distal control includes at least one valve for controlling flow of water therethrough and having a movable actuator for starting and stopping the flow of water. A permanent magnet, disposed proximate said actuator for magnetic engagement therewith, is provided for moving the actuator between a first position stopping water flow through the valve and a second position allowing water flow through the valve. A movable member is provided to alter the magnetic engagement between the permanent magnet and the actuator in order to move the actuator. A cable, having a slidable center wire attached to the movable member and a sheath attached to the valve is connected to a manually operable lever, for operating said cable in a manner causing movement of the movable member and concomitant movement of the actuator, as a result of magnetic engagement alteration, in order to start and stop water flow through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1994
    Inventors: Robert L. Woltz, Christopher K. Wynkoop
  • Patent number: 5305924
    Abstract: A postmix beverage dispenser having the appearance of a stainless steel brewed tea urn. A postmix dispensing valve is mounted inside the tea urn and is operated by a handle located on the front of the tea urn. A nozzle extender is inside the handle body and connects to the nozzle of the dispensing valve. The handle body and nozzle extender are easily manually removed without tools from outside the tea urn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Phillip B. Groover, Kirk W. Charles, Lionel D. Gillespie, Samuel Durham, Lisa C. Wandrick
  • Patent number: 5303849
    Abstract: A lever arm assembly for a beverage dispensing valve including a valve including a housing including a cover and a bottom plate, a switch means inside said cover for turning on said valve to dispense a drink, a lever arm chamber for receiving a lever arm and said lever arm connected to said valve and being movable between a rest position in which the switch means is actuated and an actuating position in which said switch means is actuated, and means for holding said lever arm in a rest position. The lever arm including a cup contacting portion extending down below said valve, a pivot pin and a switch actuating portion extending above said pivot pin and into the valve housing. The housing including a lever arm opening to allow said valve actuating portion and said pivot pin to be inserted into said lever arm chamber, such that the lever arm can move freely between its rest and actuating positions, and a pivot pin recess for receiving and holding said pivot pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventor: William S. Credle, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5299932
    Abstract: The fuel and air supply apparatus provides a fuel/air mixture for gas burners. The ratio of fuel to air in the mixture is adjustable and remains constant at any setting in spite of changes in air flow rate made to adjust the flame size and height. The fuel/air mixture is supplied to the burner through a venturi which, in turn, is supplied with fuel and air. The venturi is such that the amount of gas entrained into and mixed with the air is directly proportional to the air flow velocity into the venturi. Such a venturi is available form the J & P Machine and Tool Co., 22 Delawanna Avenue, Clifton, N.J. 07014. The fuel is supplied to the venturi through a zero regulator which supplies fuel in direct proportion to the demand. The combined functions of the venturi and regulator provide the fuel/air mixture as described. A suitable zero regulator is available from Maxitrol, 23555 Telegraph, Southfield, Mich. 48037, Model No. R400SZ.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Inventor: F. James Piver
  • Patent number: 5293900
    Abstract: A direct drive joystick has a contactless system for sensing the position of the joystick lever and having valve drivers which are positioned within the joystick, and which are directly connected to coils of a proportional valve. The joystick thus is not prone to failure due to internal friction of its sensing elements and at the same time is capable of directly driving valves without the provision of any other devices between the joystick and the valves. The joystick including the valve driver is rugged, compact and can be easily installed. The valve driver can be adjusted by an operator who is simultaneously actuating the joystick. The operational status of one or more of the joystick, the valve being controlled by the joystick, and the power source for the valve and joystick are visually displayed at a location which can be easily viewed by the joystick operator. Operation of the valve driver and thus of the joystick is prevented upon failure of a signal wire or upon generation of a joystick fault signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Assignee: Hydro Electronic Devices Inc. (HED)
    Inventors: Hassan Karbassi, Edward T. Heck
  • Patent number: 5293901
    Abstract: A water delivery device with at least one delivery mouth (45) comprises a body (11) containing first controlled means (13) for mixing and delivery from said mouth of water coming from two first sources and second controlled means (25) of delivery from said mouth (13) of water coming selectively from second sources. In the body of the device is arranged a selector element (49) operated alternatively between a position of connection of the two first sources to mixing inlets (17,18) of the first control means (13) and selective connection positions of one of the second sources to an inlet (29) of the second control means (25).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Assignee: Telma Guzzini s.r.l.
    Inventor: Mauro Guzzini
  • Patent number: 5287887
    Abstract: A handle operated flow control valve has a body that defines first and second spaced inlet passages that extend from spaced first and second inlets and join in the vicinity of a first flow control valve for ducting pressurized flows of fluid from one or both of the inlets into an outlet passage for discharge through a nozzle. The first flow control valve has a first valve stem that moves in response to operation of a trigger handle. When the trigger handle is operated relatively gently within an initial range of movement, only the valve stem of the first flow control valve is moved out of its closed position, whereby a controlled flow of a first fluid such as pressurized water is ducted from the first inlet passage into the outlet passage for discharge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Inventor: Robert W. Hengesbach
  • Patent number: 5269347
    Abstract: An isolator flow control apparatus (10) especially to selectively control communication of a contained fluid to an overpressure protection system. The isolator apparatus (10) includes a flow housing (12) having a single inlet opening (20) placed in fluid communication by an internal manifold means with a plurality of outlet openings (22, 24). A floating rotatable ball closure member (28, 30) is operably disposed in each of the outlet openings (22, 24) for effecting a metal-to-metal seal with a fixed downstream seat (16d, 18d). The ball closure members (28, 30) are interlocked by a shaft (34) in a passage (14b) extending between enlarged diameter portions (22a, 24A) receiving the ball closure members (28, 30). The ball closure members (28, 30) are actuated by an operator means (40) for automatically closing or isolating a selected outlet opening (22 or 24) while opening another outlet opening (22 or 24) to ensure continuous fluid flow or fluid communication through the isolator apparatus (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Assignee: Keystone International Holdings Corp.
    Inventor: Marvin E. Beasley
  • Patent number: 5251667
    Abstract: A three-way control valve structure for a variable fluid system including first and second valve inlet ports and a valve outlet in a ported chamber with control means to operate valve lids for the valve inlet ports to close such inlet ports in response to a preselected condition in the variable fluid system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Bernard L. Kunz, Randy L. Bomkamp
  • Patent number: 5241988
    Abstract: The quick opening and closing valve of the present invention has a main chamber. An inlet from a source of liquid and an outlet extends into the chamber adjacent to and at right angles to each other. A ball or other type of plunger chamber moves (a) from a closed position seated on the outlet (b) to an open position spaced from the seat formed where the outlet and chamber meet. When the plunger is on the seat, the plunger blocks fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet, and the valve is closed. When the plunger moves off the seat, the inlet and outlet communicate so that fluid flows directly from the inlet to the outlet. A control port extends into the chamber on the other side of the plunger from the outlet. The control port is alternatively opened or closed by a control gate. When the control gate is in its closed position, the control port is closed. The pressure at the outlet is approximately atmospheric, but some fluid flows to the other side of the plunger which elevates the pressure there.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1993
    Inventor: Joel E. Haynes
  • Patent number: 5240040
    Abstract: A mixing valve according to the invention allows fluids such as hot and cold water to flow through a pair of inlet ports, mix together and then exit through an outlet port. A check valve in each inlet allows the incoming fluid to flow in a forward direction, but prevents any reverse or crossover flow. An adjustable stop, positioned intermediate the valves, regulates the extent to which each valve can open to provide a desired mixing ratio of fluids, and can also be used to close one of the check valves. An actuator connected to the adjustable stop permits manual control of the mixing ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Assignee: Bradley Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas G. Barnum, Jeffery S. Jaworski
  • Patent number: 5230365
    Abstract: Water value apparatus with distal control includes at least one valve for controlling flow of water therethrough and having a movable actuator for starting and stopping the flow of water. A movable permanent magnet, disposed proximate said actuator for magnetic engagement therewith, is provided for moving the actuator between a first position stopping water flow through the valve and a second position allowing water flow through the valve. A cable, having a slidable center wire attached to the permanent magnet means and a sheath attached to the valve is connected to a manually operable lever, for operating said cable in a manner causing movement of the permanent magnet means and concomitant movement of the actuator in order to start and stop water flow through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1993
    Inventors: Robert L. Woltz, Christopher K. Wynkoop
  • Patent number: 5226450
    Abstract: A fluid mixing and control apparatus comprises a unitary block of plastic material through which recesses and passageways can be machined or otherwise formed. The block includes two separate fluid pathways, one of which includes a fluid detector. Both pathways include shut-off valves and both pathways include fluid flow controllers to allow the fluids to be mixed together and pass through an outlet in a controlled manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Assignee: Taylor HPL Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Douglas G. Lambourn
  • Patent number: 5224509
    Abstract: An automatic faucet according to the present invention is characterized in that a protective cover for a sensor or the like is removably mounted in a superposed state on the inner surface of a spout body integrally formed with a discharge water flow path within the wall to constitute a spout, and a sensor or the like fitting space for storing a manual sensor, a sensor cord and the like is formed between the spout body and the protective cover for the sensor or the like. That is, the spout constituting the principal portion of the automatic faucet is substantially formed by assembling the mutually independent spout body having formed therein the discharge water flow path and protective cover for the sensor or the like. Accordingly, the spout of the automatic faucet can be assembled easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Assignee: Toto Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Tanaka, Koji Morita, Koji Nakano, Yukihiro Muroya
  • Patent number: 5215251
    Abstract: A water control includes three water sources which are plumbed into a single supply pipe where a flow meter and temperature sensor is used by a computer to monitor the water flowing therethrough. A valve set controls the flow of water from each water source into the single supply pipe such that a desired amount of water as measured by the flow meter is produced at a desired temperature as is monitored by the temperature sensor. The water sources include a tap water supply with an unregulated temperature, and a cold and hot water source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1993
    Assignee: Beta Raven Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph A. Volk, Jr., Nicholas S. Tsigolaroff
  • Patent number: 5205322
    Abstract: The improved gas flow control apparatus controls the flow of multiple gases to a tonometer for calibration of a blood gas or pH sensor and compensates for the failure of gas supply solenoid valves to operate properly in controlling gas flow. Intermediate gas supply solenoid valves select between gas flow of the supplied gas in an open position, and venting to the atmosphere in a closed position. A common selector valve is also provided in the gas flow path to the tonometer to select gas flow from one of the intermediate gas flow valves. A control unit is provided for controlling the operation of the intermediate and common selector valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Assignee: Puritan-Bennett Corporation
    Inventors: Ed Merick, Al Signorelli
  • Patent number: 5184642
    Abstract: A retrofit system system for converting a conventional hot and cold water faucet arrangement to automatic electric control is disclosed. A solenoid valve and U-shaped tubes at either end are inserted into each riser. The valves are responsive to a control panel for setting flow rate and/or temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Inventor: Jay H. Powell
  • Patent number: 5181538
    Abstract: An improved multiple stream, fluid mixing and dispensing apparatus for automatically regulating flow rate for one or more preset fluid flows including a plural station, fluid flow rate console assembly adapted for cooperating with the standing hydraulic pressure of a dual fluid supply means with a variable effluent flow rate regulator interposed in each of the main supply conduits and associated controller means for presetting the flow rate through each regulator and for determining both the degree of mixing and the incidence of fluid flow to be provided from each supply conduit to the exit conduit. The apparatus being specially adaped for permitting pneumatic operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1993
    Inventor: Paul R. Manganaro
  • Patent number: 5179970
    Abstract: A postmix beverage dispenser valve including a fluidic oscillator flowmeter in conjunction with a master controller and a flow control valve such as a proportional solenoid. The frequency of the syrup oscillations in the fluidic oscillator is linearly related to the syrup velocity and thus to the volume flow rate. Various sensors can be used to detect the fluid oscillations with the preferred one being a piezo electric film transducer having a protective coating and used with a flex cavity in the conduit wall. A pressure compensation device can be used to isolate the solenoid armature from varying syrup pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1993
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: George J. Jarocki, Tadeusz M. Drzewiecki
  • Patent number: 5167255
    Abstract: In a sanitary fitting controlled in a non-contacting manner, the housing is divided several times: handle-like attachments (6, 7) are detachably connected on both sides to a main housing (1), which contains the channels carrying water. One of the two handle-like attachments (6) holds all the electronic components, in particular transmitter (9), receiver (10) and receiving electronics (11) and receives these electronic components at least partly in its cup-shaped housing (52). The other handle-like attachment (7) similarly holds all the mechanical components, in particular the electrically controlled valve (14, 29), and receives these mechanical components at least partly in its cup-shaped housing (18) (FIG. 3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1992
    Assignee: Hansa Metallwerke AG
    Inventors: Claus-Peter Gohring, Werner J. Weinmann
  • Patent number: 5156187
    Abstract: An electrically operated sanitary mixer tap system comprises a hollow piston (17) for adjusting the temperature, which in particular may be a rotary piston. The hollow piston (17) moves in a chamber (21) of the housing (1) of the mixer tap system, into which the flow paths (22, 23) for cold and hot water open. A particular structure (27) on the outside of the hollow piston (17) cooperates with the openings of the flow paths (23, 27) and thus determines the mixing ratio of the mixed water flowing out of the fitting. Its further path to the outlet of the sanitary fitting leads at least in regions through the interior of the hollow piston (17). Located at this point are (at least) the closing members (30, 34) of an electrically operated valve, which in this way controls the flow of mixed water to the outlet of the fitting. This arrangement of the closing members (30, 34) radially inside the hollow piston (17) facilitates a particularly space-saving construction (FIG. 4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1992
    Assignee: Hansa Metallwerke AG
    Inventors: Heinz W. Schmidt, Werner J. Weinmann
  • Patent number: 5148824
    Abstract: An electro-mechanical mixing faucet for proportionally mixing hot and cold water in accordance with a user-selected mix ratio. A user-adjustable temperature selector produces a mix signal which adjusts hot and cold water valves to permit flow in amounts which will produce the desired temperature. The temperature selector includes a bank of LED's for indicating the selected temperature. When a user actuates the temperature selector, the LED's turn on brightly to indicate the selected temperature and also the water is immediately turned on. Following use of the faucet, the temperature selection is returned to a neutral temperature after a dormant period. An LED flashes when all hot water is demanded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Assignee: Sloan Valve Company
    Inventors: John R. Wilson, Nhon T. Vuong