Flow Path With Serial Valves And/or Closures Patents (Class 137/613)
  • Patent number: 6782918
    Abstract: A valve device for a pressurised gas cylinder comprising a connector to be connected to a gas outlet orifice of a gas cylinder. A handwheel controls closing a gate valve or opening the gate valve to release gas from the cylinder. The output flow of gas released from the cylinder can be set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: GCE SAS
    Inventor: Guy Rousselin
  • Patent number: 6766829
    Abstract: Within a housing (3), a gas inlet (4) communicates with a gas outlet (5) through an inlet passage (11), a shut off valve (12) and an outlet passage (13), and a charging port (6) communicates with a discharging port (7) via a bypass passage (14). The outlet passage (13) is provided with a first pressure reducing valve (21) of piston type, a second pressure reducing valve (22) of diaphragm type and a first check valve (31) for retaining residual pressure, in series in the mentioned order. The bypass passage (14) is provided with a second check valve (32) which inhibits a flow from the discharging port (7) to the charging port (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Neriki
    Inventors: Masaru Takeda, Osamu Hirakami, Shinji Maekawa
  • Patent number: 6763901
    Abstract: A power swivel provides the rotational force to drill consolidated subsurface strata while an unrestricted airflow through the swivel and down a drill string remove cuttings from the borehole. The power swivel is configured to mount on direct push equipment, such as a cone penetrometer, to eliminate the need for a conventional drilling rig when a consolidated layer is encountered during direct push operations. A drilling nipple and pack-off are provided near the surface to maintain the air flow during drilling and to direct the cuttings to a desired location. Also, a dual-valved air delivery system provides safe, remote-controlled air flow to the swivel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: University of Chicago
    Inventors: Lorraine M. LaFreniere, David H. Surgnier
  • Publication number: 20040129321
    Abstract: The invention relates to a double valve with a valve housing (1), for housing two double-headed actuators (30, 31), whereby the double head actuators have differing head diameters (12, 13) and the flow of a fluid through the both actuators (30, 31)in the valve housing (1) is identical. The valve housing (1) is of one-piece design and a drive function for both actuators (30, 31) is not connected to the inner volume of the valve housing (1) with fluid flowing therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventors: Guntram Erbe, Erwin Hochstuhl, Kunibert Neu, Karl-Anton Wissler, Martin Wetzel
  • Patent number: 6758233
    Abstract: A gas regulator (14) is provided for regulating the pressure of a gas flowing from a source (12) of the gas under pressure to a device (24) for using the gas. The regulator (14) includes a housing (26) and a pressure reducing valve (36) in the housing for controlling the flow of gas from an inlet (28) under pressure to an outlet (32) at a regulated pressure. The pressure reducing valve is controlled by a pressure responsive member (40, 44) which is displaced by operating feed and bleed valves (50) coupled to a control chamber (46) of the pressure responsive member. The feed and bleed valves are operated by a high speed solenoid actuator (68). The bleed valve is vented to the outlet of the housing from the control chamber which is maintained at a higher pressure. The high speed solenoid actuator (68) is operated by a controller (18) for controllably varying the output pressure as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Saskatchewan Research Council
    Inventors: Michael Sulatisky, Sheldon Hill
  • Patent number: 6742540
    Abstract: A two-way orifice check valve device for a hydraulic circuit is disclosed. The hydraulic circuit which controls the engagement and release of a friction element, such as a clutch, is simplified to reduce the manufacturing cost, as well as improve functioning during the engagement and release of the friction element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Han-Soo Kim
  • Publication number: 20040099317
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pneumatic yoke for a pressurized gas reservoir. The yoke comprises an aperture for receiving a stem of the pressurized gas reservoir, the stem having a stem valve selectively operable to permit a flow of pressurized gas through an opening of the stem; a gas passage for alignment with the opening of the stem to accept the flow of pressurized gas; a gas diverting conduit in fluid communication with the gas passage; a movable clamping member within the gas diverting conduit, the movable clamping member having a surface forming a boundary of the conduit, the boundary displaceable by a flow of gas into the conduit to thereby vary the volume of the conduit to thereby engage the clamping member with the stem; and, a release valve in fluid communication with the gas diverting conduit, the release valve selectively operable to permit a flow of gas from the conduit to permit disengagement of the movable clamping member with the stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Inventors: Andrew S. Douglas, Patrick A. Walsh
  • Patent number: 6725878
    Abstract: A gas leakage detection system includes a flow path, a dual mode valve disposed in the flow path, an ultrasonic measuring section including a pair of ultrasonic transducers, disposed in the flow path upstream from the dual mode valve, a flow rate calculation section for computing a flow rate based on a signal from the ultrasonic measuring section, and a control section for controlling the dual mode valve. The control section closes or opens the dual mode valve instantaneously, and the flow rate calculation section computes a flow rate when the dual mode valve is closed. Thus, gas leakage can be decided substantially without stopping a gas flow when a user is using the gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Motoyuki Nawa, Shigeru Iwanaga, Mitsuo Nanba
  • Patent number: 6722391
    Abstract: An improved ON-OFF control for a paintball gun comprises sidewalls defining a transverse actuator socket, a gas inlet for fluid communication to a pressurized gas source and a gas outlet, and a spool received in the socket and movable between a first position wherein an internal passage is defined between the gas inlet opening and the gas outlet opening, and a second position wherein the flow of gas from the gas inlet is blocked and the gas outlet is vented to atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventor: Stanely Gabrel
  • Publication number: 20040069354
    Abstract: A pipe fitting (31) comprises a body (32) adapted for connection at a first end thereof to a supply pipe and at a second end thereof to a distribution pipe so as to permit fluid communication between the supply pipe and the distribution pipe. The body (32) is provided with a valve (32a) by which said fluid communication can be interrupted, and has an upstream port (37) and a downstream port (38), respectively upstream and downstream, in use, of the valve (32a). The upstream port (37) and the downstream port (38) permit the valve (32a) to be by-passed and fluid from the supply pipe to be introduced to the distribution pipe. The pipe fitting (31) is of particular utility in the commissioning of new water mains.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Peter John Hallam, Robert Philip Lennard
  • Publication number: 20040069355
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device comprising at least one safety shut-off control valve. A safety valve is optionally connected to said safety shut-off control valve, connected in series in the fluid flow path. In the safety shut-off control valve, a sealing valve is returned to a sealing position against a seat by means of a return spring, and is controlled by a linear actuator and a connecting rod for continuous adjustment of the valve opening. The connecting rod comprises two independent segments which are at least partially made from a ferromagnetic material and which are magnetically coupled to a magnetic coupling circuit that is activated by a coil. While electric power is being supplied to the coil, the magnetic field that said coil creates maintains the linking rod segments coupled to one another, such that the linear actuator can control the sealing valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Ghislain Sollier
  • Patent number: 6719222
    Abstract: A fluid distribution device (9) includes a distribution block (10) having an array of fluid flow passages (11) arranged in a plurality of at least first and second groups (15, 16). Valve mechanism (12) is operable for controlling fluid flow through the passages (11). The valve mechanism (12) includes a first series of valve members (19) each associated with a respective one of the groups (15) of flow passages (11), and a second series of valve members (20) each associated with a respective one of the second groups (16) of flow passages (11). Each valve member (19, 20) is movable between a closed position preventing flow through the associated flow passages (11) and an open position permitting flow along those passages (11). When all of the valve members (19, 20) associated with any one flow passage (11) are in the open position, fluid is able to flow through that passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Nicholas Barson Mebberson
  • Publication number: 20040065371
    Abstract: A pressure vessel for storing a compressed gas comprises a closed pressure vessel housing which consists of an essentially cylindrical main part and of closing caps located on both sides. The pressure vessel also comprises an integrated control device for delivering the gas including a pressure reducer with a high-pressure part and a low-pressure part and including a controlled gas outlet. At least one of the closing caps is a part that is assembled with the cylindrical main part and the majority of the components of the control device are mounted on this part and are directed inside the vessels housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventors: Arthur E Koschany, Jan Gobelsmann
  • Publication number: 20040055651
    Abstract: Gas flow control is addressed using a controllable approach that facilitates safe operation. According to an example embodiment, a control arrangement for gas flow comprises two main valves connected in series and two servo valves operated by an actuator, the opening of the main valves being controlled via said servo valves. The main valves are operated by means of diaphragms limiting a first gas chamber, wherein the first servo valve is connected to the first gas chamber of the first main valve, to a second gas chamber in the inlet area of the first main valve and to the first gas chamber of the second main valve. Due to this construction a leakage gas flow out of the first gas chamber of the first main valve leads, if the first servo valve fails, to an increase in pressure in the first gas chamber of the second main valve, whereby it is ensured that the main valve is safely closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: Gerrit Jan Baarda
  • Publication number: 20040045612
    Abstract: A throttle device comprises a tubular outer sleeve having a plurality of outer sleeve circumferential grooves formed on an outer sleeve inner surface and intersecting a plurality of outer sleeve axial grooves formed on an outer sleeve outer surface to form outer sleeve orifices. Also included is a tubular inner sleeve concentrically disposed within the outer sleeve and having a plurality of inner sleeve circumferential grooves formed on an inner sleeve inner surface. A plurality of inner sleeve axial grooves are formed on the inner sleeve outer surface and intersect the inner sleeve circumferential grooves to form inner sleeve orifices. The offset inner and outer sleeve orifices define tortuous flow paths wherein fluid flows into the outer sleeve axial grooves, through the outer sleeve orifices, through the outer sleeve circumferential grooves, through the inner sleeve axial grooves, through the inner sleeve orifices before exiting the inner sleeve circumferential grooves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Harald Beth
  • Patent number: 6691729
    Abstract: A housing (16) comprises a first housing (17) and a second housing (18). The first housing (17) is fixed to a gas cylinder (1) and is provided with a cylinder main valve (3) which is manually opened and closed. The second housing (18) is provided with a main stop valve (4) of an electromagnetically opening and closing valve. The second housing (18) is removably fixed to the first housing (17) by a tightening bolt (39). In this state where the second housing (18) is fixed to the first housing (17), the cylinder main valve (3) has a first valve chamber (44) communicated with a second valve chamber (63) of the main stop valve (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Neriki, Nichiden Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaru Takeda, Mitsunori Sakai, Junichi Ono, Yorikazu Satoh, Ken Nagasawa
  • Patent number: 6681802
    Abstract: A valve arrangement for use in a fire suppression sprinkler system includes a valve member for controlling the flow of a fluid. The valve member has a housing having an inlet and an outlet. The valve member defines a first configuration selectively permitting an unrestricted flow from the inlet to the outlet, and a second configuration selectively permitting a restricted flow from the inlet to the outlet. The valve member includes a first ball member and a second ball member disposed within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: AGF Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: George J. McHugh
  • Publication number: 20040011411
    Abstract: The present invention is an intrinsically safe pneumatically actuated flow controller. A preferred embodiment for the flow controller has a housing assembly defining an inlet port, an outlet port, a pressure signal inlet port, and a main flow path extending between the inlet port and the outlet port. A restriction member is arranged in the main flow path. A first valve assembly and second valve assembly control fluid flow along the main flow path. A first regulator assembly operates the first valve assembly. A pressure signal actuation assembly has an actuation bellows attached to an actuation piston mounted on a flow control piston rod that passes through an isolation plate and is sheathed by an isolation bellows. The flow control piston rod terminates in a flow control piston that engages a second regulator assembly, which operates the second valve assembly based on pressure signals transmitted through the pressure signal inlet to the pressure signal actuation assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Petur Thordarson, Patrick A. Lowery
  • Patent number: 6679283
    Abstract: A valve inspection chamber includes a housing having a vertical inspection and valve retrieval opening. A valve cassette is provided which includes a frame and a valve member movable relative to the frame between an open position and a closed position. A valve cassette receptacle is positioned in the housing. The valve cassette is inserted and retrieved through the vertical inspection and valve retrieval opening of the housing using a retrieval tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Gabe Coscarella
  • Patent number: 6675831
    Abstract: To downsize a high-pressure tank apparatus comprising: a high-pressure tank in which high-pressure gas is charged; and a valve mechanism including a regulator valve for reducing the gas pressure in the tank, to prevent damage to the valve mechanism, and to facilitate the handling of the valve mechanism and the like, the valve mechanism is provided at a gas outlet of the high-pressure tank to locate inside of the tank. The valve mechanism includes a capsule fixedly attached to the gas outlet in a gas-tight manner to face the inside of the high-pressure tank. Within the capsule, a shut-off valve for providing and interrupting communication between the inside and outside of the tank by its opening and closing, respectively, and a regulator valve for reducing the pressure of the high-pressure gas in the tank are disposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignees: SamTech Corporation, SamTech International, Inc., Hypercomp Engineering Inc., Kabushiki Kaisha Kawasaki Precision Machinery
    Inventors: Teppei Sakaguchi, Yoshiki Sakaguchi, Shaun C. Hogan, Kaoru Nomichi, Seiji Ishii, Takehiko Saeki
  • Patent number: 6675832
    Abstract: Disclosed is a blowdown valve for a boiler system for removing fluid that contains debris. The blowdown valve comprises a housing for a shutoff valve and a reversible throttle valve. The shutoff valve is fluidly connected to a fluid inlet that, in turn, is connected to the boiler system. Each one of the shutoff and throttle valves includes a rotatable valve ball having a bore formed therethrough. Rotation of the valve ball alternately blocks and unblocks fluid flowing therethrough. The throttle valve bore includes first and second bore ends. A bore insert is disposed within the bore between first and second debris zones. The bore insert includes passages configured for reducing fluid energy. The first and second debris zones entrap debris therewithin. The throttle valve reverses positions of the first and second debris zones such that entrapped debris may be flushed out of the fluid outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Control Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Duc Thanh Tran, Stanley F. Miller, Stephen G. Freitas
  • Patent number: 6666226
    Abstract: A reliable and economical apparatus for relieving pressure in a large aircraft cabin oxygen supply, where multiple oxygen cylinders are used concurrently. A series-parallel array of valves actuated by changes in differential pressure between the oxygen supply and the ambient cabin atmosphere provides overpressure relief The series connection of the valves reduces the risk of open-valve failures, while the parallel connection of sets of series-connected valves reduces the risk of closed-valve failures. The small number of valves used in its design reduces the cost of the apparatus. The series-parallel structure is optionally extended to larger numbers of valves to facilitate the use of less-expensive valves and supporting components without loss of reliability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Carleton Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence H. Gill, Gary Thomasulo, Glenn Maslowsky, William D. Siska, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20030217774
    Abstract: A fitting for engagement with a cylindrical compressed gas bottle. The fitting includes a valve for regulating gas between a regulated port of the body of the fitting and an outlet port of the body of the fitting. The body of the fitting is cylindrical and dimensioned to be hand held, the fitting includes a handle for pivotal engagement with the body, the handle to control the flow of gas from the outlet port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Applicant: Daniel Holt
    Inventors: Trevor K. Markham, Glen M. Arnott
  • Patent number: 6648609
    Abstract: The invention is a device and method in a high-pressure chromatography system, such as a supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) system, that uses a pump as a pressure source for precision pumping of a compressible fluid. The preferred exemplary embodiment comprises a pressure regulation assembly installed downstream from a compressible fluid pump but prior to combining the compressible flow with a relatively incompressible modifier flow stream. The present invention allows the replacement of an high-grade SFC pump in the compressible fluid flow stream with an inexpensive and imprecise pump. The imprecise pump becomes capable of moving the compressible fluid flow stream in a precise flow rate and pattern. The assembly dampens the damaging effects of an imprecise pump, such as large pressure oscillations caused by flow ripples and noisy pressure signals that do not meet precise SFC pumping requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Berger Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Terry A. Berger, Kimber D. Fogelman, Kenneth Klein, L. Thompson Staats, III, Mark Nickerson, Paul F. Bente, III
  • Patent number: 6640829
    Abstract: A two-way valve is disclosed comprising at least two lateral openings which can be shut off by a piston provided with an axial orifice for the passage of gas, which piston slides axially in the casing between a position in which the openings are shut off under the influence of a spring and an open position counter to the action of the spring under the influence of the pressure of the filling gas, and a level valve activated by a float at the bottom of the casing. In order to prevent pressure from building up inside the casing after closure, the latter is provided with vent orifices. A seal member is arranged on the piston to cover or uncover the vent orifices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Torrent Trading Ltd.
    Inventor: Loll Kerger
  • Patent number: 6641108
    Abstract: The solenoid valve of this invention comprises an electromagnet with a rotator disposed in at least one side of the valve body. The shaft of the rotator is provided with the valve members to open or close the valve port. The solenoid valve has advantages such as high attraction force, less power, and is easy to continuously control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Zhaokeng Pan
  • Patent number: 6637459
    Abstract: An undersea hydraulic coupling member includes an external port guard that covers radial or angled flow ports of the probe when the coupling member is disengaged. The port guard is biased to the extended position over the flow ports, and may be moved to a retracted position where hydraulic fluid may flow between the flow ports and the probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: National Coupling Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Smith, III
  • Patent number: 6637207
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a gas-storage power plant, comprising a gas reservoir (8) in which a gas can be stored under pressure, a turbogroup (2) which has at least one turbine (3, 5), a gas-supply line (9) which leads from the gas reservoir (8) to the turbogroup (2), and a valve arrangement (12) which is arranged in the gas-supply line (9) and throttles a storage pressure (PS) applied on the inlet side to a working pressure (PA) by closed-loop and/or open-loop control. In order to improve the reliability of the valve arrangement (12), it has at least two control valves (13, 14) arranged in series. A leading first control valve (13) throttles the storage pressure (PS) applied on the inlet side to an intermediate pressure (PZ) by closed-loop or open-loop control. A subsequent second control valve (14) throttles the pressure (PZ) applied on the inlet side to the working pressure (PA) by closed-loop control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Alstom (Switzerland) Ltd
    Inventors: Stephan Konezciny, Franz Suter
  • Publication number: 20030183284
    Abstract: The invention relates to on-off valve, particularly for insulation by-pass of exhaust gas expansion turbines of catalytic cracking plants, of the type comprising a hollow valve body, an opening for the inlet of the gas into the valve, an opening for the outlet of the gas from the valve, at least a shutter and the relevant at least one seat, said valve being characterized in that it comprises a conduit coupled to the inlet opening and a conduit coupled to the outlet opening, said at least one seat being coupled to the inlet conduit or to the outlet conduit and said at least one shutter having a cover shape and sealing engaging with said seat by a rotatory motion transmitted to the shutter by an actuator by a drive shaft and a drive arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Luca Mambrini
  • Patent number: 6622753
    Abstract: A flow controller having a first and second stages of regulation. The first stage is a pressure regulation stage that maintains the pressure within an intermediate chamber (formed by a series of interconnected passageways and cavities) within a predetermined range above the pressure in an outlet port. The second stage maintains the flow rate within a predetermined range about a target flow rate. Both stages sample the pressure in the outlet port and automatically adjust the flow of fluid to ensure that fluctuations in pressure at the inlet and outlet ports do not affect the flow rate. The flow rate is set and controlled by a user determined setpoint. The pressure is regulated by one or more feedback systems. The feedback systems used may be mechanical or electromechanical based on a particular operating environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: FlowMatrix, Inc.
    Inventors: Petur Thordarson, Patrick A. Lowery
  • Patent number: 6612323
    Abstract: A safety valve is provided for an appliance having an electrically operated water inlet valve for receiving water used during operation of the appliance. A valve body is connected to the water supply upstream of the inlet valve, the valve body having a flow path for allowing water to flow through the valve body to the inlet valve. An electrically operated solenoid is connected to a valve gate, the valve gate being movably carried within the valve body and movable between a closed position and an open position that allows water to flow through the flow path. A portion of an electrical current from an appliance control system to the inlet valve for opening the inlet valve is conducted to the solenoid for moving the gate to the open position. The gate is spring biased to the closed position for returning the gate to the closed position when the current ceases to flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Curio Ltd.
    Inventor: Gregory L. Horne
  • Patent number: 6607007
    Abstract: A valve apparatus especially well-suited for use in gaseous oxygen delivery systems. A valve apparatus is provided that substantially reduces the risk of fire in high-pressure oxygen systems. The apparatus is particularly well-suited for use as a plug valve on ordinary cylinder containers, but may be beneficially used in any pressurized gas system, particularly oxygen systems such as those encountered in many industrial facilities. The wetted portion of the valve is isolated from threaded portions to prevent particulate contamination of the gas stream. The valve seat is located to protect it from direct impact of high-velocity gas streams. The inventive valve, and its associated inventive check-filter and excess-flow prevention features, reduces the potential for hazardous combustion at valve points within oxygen delivery systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Inventors: Wendell C. Hull, Barry E. Newton
  • Publication number: 20030150497
    Abstract: A valve device for a pressurised gas cylinder comprising a connector to be connected to a gas outlet orifice of a gas cylinder. A handwheel controls closing a gate valve or opening the gate valve to release gas from the cylinder. The output flow of gas released from the cylinder can be set.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Guy Rousselin
  • Publication number: 20030150496
    Abstract: A device for closing a gas inlet in a valve device for a pressurized gas cylinder has a freedom of translation between an extreme gas inlet closing position and an open position at an extreme stop position or an intermediate position determined by the position of a component having translatory movement that can be adjusted by a handwheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Guy Rousselin
  • Publication number: 20030084942
    Abstract: A valve arrangement for use in a fire suppression sprinkler system includes a valve member for controlling the flow of a fluid. The valve member has a housing having an inlet and an outlet. The valve member defines a first configuration selectively permitting an unrestricted flow from the inlet to the outlet, and a second configuration selectively permitting a restricted flow from the inlet to the outlet. The valve member includes a first ball member and a second ball member disposed within the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: George J. McHugh
  • Patent number: 6557585
    Abstract: In a water-supply valve apparatus comprising a first on-off rod 4 for opening and closing a discharge outlet 22 with an intake lever 6, and a second on-off rod 5 for turning on and off the flow of the water from a supply-tube 1 by pressing a pushing member 7, regardless of the operation of the first on-off rod 4, the first on-off rod 4 comprises a stopper having a T-shaped hole arranged at the position where the first on-off rod 4 is at right angles to the second on-off rod 5, the second on-off rod 5 comprises an elastic hook 210 passing through the horizontal part 110 of the T-shaped hole and being hooked on the vertical part 120 of the T-shaped hole, and an anti-rotation wing 200 for preventing the second on-off rod 5 from rotating. The anti-rotation wing 200 is inserted into an anti-rotation hole 300 formed in a guide hole 71 of the pushing member 7.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Jein Industries Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jung Bum Kwak
  • Patent number: 6557584
    Abstract: A brewing machine with brewing water flow control mechanisms for controlling flow between chambers, includes a filling chamber in fluid connection with a heating reservoir. In one aspect of the invention, a control chamber with a sealable opening is formed about a drain hole in the filling chamber so that water must flow through the control chamber to reach the reservoir, and fluid access to the control chamber is controlled by a seal which engages the opening in the control chamber. Engagement of the seal with the opening in the control chamber is controlled by operation of a lid which covers the filling chamber. In another aspect of the invention, a flow rate control valve assembly is at least partially housed within the control chamber and has a portion which is proximate to the drain hole in the filling chamber connected to the reservoir, whereby a rate of flow from the filling chamber to the reservoir is selectively controllable by adjustment of the flow rate control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Sunbeam Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric E. Lucas, Robert C. Cheich, Mark V. Gorjanc, Marc L. Vitantonio
  • Patent number: 6520206
    Abstract: Bi-directional pilot type electromagnetic flow valves are capable of preventing reverse flow while utilizing the advantageous properties of pilot type electromagnetic valves. Bi-directional pilot type electromagnetic flow valves may include two pilot type electromagnetic flow valves that are connected in series, but disposed in opposite operational directions. Preferably, one of the pilot type electromagnetic flow valves acts as an anti-reverse flow valve. Therefore, the two-way piping can be switch between a state preventing reverse flow and a state permitting reverse flow. Moreover, a relatively small solenoid coil can be utilized to drive the pilot type electromagnetic valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Aisan Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Akihisa Hotta, Koichi Suda, Takeshi Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20030024578
    Abstract: An Apparatus and method using an electronically controlled solenoid valve connected to the main water supply valve is disclosed and described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Stanley Segal
  • Publication number: 20030015242
    Abstract: In a water-supply valve apparatus comprising a first on-off rod 4 for opening and closing a discharge outlet 22 with an intake lever 6, and a second on-off rod 5 for turning on and off the flow of the water from a supply-tube 1 by pressing a pushing means 7, regardless of the operation of the first on-off rod 4, the first on-off rod 4 comprises a stopper having a T-shaped hole arranged at the position where the first on-off rod 4 is at right angles to the second on-off rod 5, the second on-off rod 5 comprises an elastic hook 210 passing through the horizontal part 110 of the T-shaped hole and being hooked on the vertical part 120 of the T-shaped hole, and an anti-rotation wing 200 for preventing the second on-off rod 5 from rotating. The anti-rotation wing 200 is inserted into an anti-rotation hole 300 formed in a guide hole 71 of the pushing means 7.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2002
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventor: Jung Bum Kwak
  • Patent number: 6502598
    Abstract: A backflow prevention assembly has a unitary housing with a passage therethrough, two threaded regions formed in an inner surface of the unitary housing, and two valve assemblies positioned in the passage to prevent fluid flow in a direction. Each valve assembly has an annular mount having a threaded outer surface that engages one of the threaded regions on the inner surface of the housing. The threads can be formed by placing a die having a thread on an outer surface thereof in contact with an inner surface of the unitary housing, and pressing on the outer surface of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Watts Investment Company
    Inventor: Lester Engelmann
  • Publication number: 20030000584
    Abstract: A flow controller having a first and second stages of regulation. The first stage is a pressure regulation stage that maintains the pressure within an intermediate chamber (formed by a series of interconnected passageways and cavities) within a predetermined range above the pressure in an outlet port. The second stage maintains the flow rate within a predetermined range about a target flow rate. Both stages sample the pressure in the outlet port and automatically adjust the flow of fluid to ensure that fluctuations in pressure at the inlet and outlet ports do not affect the flow rate. The flow rate is set and controlled by a user determined setpoint. The pressure is regulated by one or more feedback systems. The feedback systems used may be mechanical or electromechanical based on a particular operating environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventors: Petur Thordarson, Patrick A. Lowery
  • Patent number: 6488046
    Abstract: Pressure reducer for compressed gases, comprising at least one regulation stage constituted by a chamber divided by a first membrane (25) into two chambers (23, 24), one of which said chambers (24) is maintained at a reference pressure and the other (23) at a pressure which depends on the gas pressure in the outlet pipe (3), an opening, closed by a membrane (43) integral with a cap (42), located between the said chamber (24) at the reference pressure and the said gas outlet pipe (3), a gas inlet chamber (10) with an opening (11) which leads to the said outlet pipe (3) in correspondence with the said cap (42), the movements of which said cap open and close the passage (11) between the said inlet chamber (10) and the said outlet pipe (3), and means (41) integral with the said first membrane (25) which act on the said cap (42) so that it approaches and retracts from opening (11) of the said gas inlet chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Poliauto di P. Parietti & C. S.n.c.
    Inventor: Pietro Parietti
  • Patent number: 6484750
    Abstract: An integrated regulator and flow meter assembly having a piston reciprocatingly disposed in an opening of a body member, a support member disposed in the body member opening over the piston, and a flow tube coupled to the support member, wherein an aperture of the support member interconnects a flow conduit of the piston and the flow tube. A spring, preferably a wave spring or disc spring, biases the piston away from an orifice with a valve seat formed thereabout on an end portion of the body member opening. In one embodiment, the piston and a seating surface thereof are formed unitarily of a plastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Gary A. Foos, Robert W. Wakeman
  • Publication number: 20020169424
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for preventing free flow through an infusion set utilizes an occluder disposed within the infusion set to selectively prevent flow therethrough. The occluder may be responsive to a pressure differential within the infusion set or may respond to compression of the infusion set. When a pair of occluders are used in sequence, an inline pump may be formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventors: Scott Miles, Kent F. Beck, James Malmstrom
  • Patent number: 6467505
    Abstract: A flow controller having a first and second stages of regulation. The first stage is a pressure regulation stage that maintains the pressure within an intermediate chamber (formed by a series of interconnected passageways and cavities) within a predetermined range above the pressure in an outlet port. The second stage maintains the flow rate within a predetermined range about a target flow rate. Both stages sample the pressure in the outlet port and automatically adjust the flow of fluid to ensure that fluctuations in pressure at the inlet and outlet ports do not affect the flow rate. The flow rate is set and controlled by a user determined setpoint. The pressure is regulated by one or more feedback systems. The feedback systems used may be mechanical or electromechanical based on a particular operating environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Flowmatrix Inc.
    Inventors: Petur Thordarson, Patrick A. Lowery
  • Publication number: 20020128135
    Abstract: An hydrostatic tool system including a tool assembly having a hydrostatic tool holder for holding a rotating tool, for example a machine or cutting tool. The hydrostatic tool system may also include a tool storage system, a tool transport system and a tool drive system. The hydrostatic tool system may also include an hydraulic coupler for hydraulically connecting the hydrostatic tool holder to a pressurizing or depressurizing source. The hydrostatic tool system may also include a system controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventors: Andrew Asp, Raliegh J. Jensen
  • Patent number: 6431197
    Abstract: A system for controlling with safety the transfer or control of high pressure fluids from a container for use as to an inflatable escape slide. The pressurized container houses valve mechanisms such as a first and second valve mechanism, with the first valve mechanism controlling by actuation the on off flow of high pressure fluids to the second valve mechanism. The second valve mechanism controls the rate of flow by reducing the pressure for delivery to the inflatable escape slide. A safety valve operates in conjunction with the first valve mechanism and upon breaking of the valve mechanisms from the pressurized container to prevent the contents of the pressurized container from rapid escape or uncontrolled release.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Goodrich Corp.
    Inventors: Roland D. Hintzman, Christopher J. Bock, Richard B. Yori, III
  • Patent number: 6427969
    Abstract: A vacuum processing device has at least one vacuum processing unit, which includes a housing defining a vacuum chamber, and a gate valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a lid plate. for covering an opening in the housing, and a connecting member connected fixedly to a rotating shaft. Each of several aligned adjustment rods connects the plate to the connecting member, and is disposed perpendicular to the plate. A plurality of resilientunits biases the plate away from the connecting member to press against a wall of the housing, which defines the opening. A plurality of adjusting units are movable respectively on the rods to vary the distance between a portion of the plate and a portion of the connecting member, which are interconnected by the respective one of the rods, so that the plate can be pressed entirely against the wall of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Helix Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Sung-Peng Ho, Meng-Ju Chou, Chao-Ming Su
  • Patent number: 6412508
    Abstract: An inexpensive, compact, on-site gas storage facility for the storage of natural gas uses steel pipes affixed end to end in a serpentine arrangement. The facility has a compressor, a decompressor or a pressure reducing regulator, a steel pipe storage system, and components for containing the gas in the system, controlling the delivery of gas to the system and expelling gas from the system for use or delivery of natural gas to end users. The facility includes monitors, filters or strainers, dryers, test stations and cathodic protection systems. The gas storage facility is usable in industrial, commercial, utility and residential applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Resource LLC
    Inventor: Philip Lawton Swann, Jr.