Programmer Or Timer Patents (Class 137/624.11)
  • Patent number: 11959261
    Abstract: A water temperature control assembly for remotely controlling water temperature in a shower includes a control unit that is attached to a fluid valve in a shower to adjust a temperature of water that is delivered from the fluid valve. A showerhead is provided and the showerhead is fluidly coupled to the fluid valve in the shower for bathing. The showerhead is in wireless electrical communication with the control unit to remotely control the temperature of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Inventors: Marsha Strushensky, David Strushensky
  • Patent number: 11873556
    Abstract: A raw material supply apparatus includes: a raw material supply path through which a raw material gas is supplied into a processing container; a valve provided in the raw material supply path; a pressure sensor configured to detect an internal pressure of the raw material supply path; a raw material exhaust path connected to the raw material supply path and through which the raw material gas in the raw material supply path is exhausted; an opening degree adjustment mechanism provided in the raw material exhaust path and configured to control the internal pressure of the raw material supply path based on an adjustment of an opening degree of the opening degree adjustment mechanism; and a controller configured to perform the adjustment of the opening degree of the opening degree adjustment mechanism based on a value detected by the pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Tomohisa Kimoto, Noriyuki Watanabe, Kensaku Narushima, Kouichi Sekido, Takuya Kawaguchi
  • Patent number: 11808376
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing device and method for controlling the device are provided. The device includes a housing defining a fluid outlet. A valve controls the flow of fluid to the outlet. A sensor is configured to detect an object outside of and proximate to the housing. A solenoid is configured to move the valve between an open position and a closed position. A controller is configured to receive the output signal of the sensor, determine a characteristic of noise in the output signal such as a level of noise, adjust at least one of a sampling rate of the output signal and an amount of filtering of the output signal responsive to the characteristic of noise in the output signal, and transmit a control signal to the solenoid responsive to the output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Assignee: Masco Canada Limited
    Inventors: David Paul Morrish, Bryan Fisher
  • Patent number: 11789474
    Abstract: A pressure gauge includes a housing defining a fluid path and a bleed path. An inlet is mounted on the housing and a pressure sensor is disposed within the housing. A bleed valve is disposed along the fluid path and selectively opens or closes the bleed path. An actuator moves the bleed valve between a closed position and an open position. A control module is coupled to the pressure sensor and the actuator and includes a memory and a processor. A target fluid pressure is stored in the memory and the processor receives pressure data from the pressure sensor. When the pressure data is greater than the target fluid pressure, the processor controls the actuator to place the bleed valve in the open position. When the pressure data is equal to the target fluid pressure, the processor controls the actuator to place the bleed valve in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: Motool LLC
    Inventor: John Charles Casebeer, II
  • Patent number: 11781407
    Abstract: Systems and method for injection a chemical into a wellbore. A chemical injection system may comprise a first valve, a chemical line, a pilot line, an injection line, and a backflow prevention valve disposable in the injection line. A production fluid recovery system may comprise a chemical injection system, a first valve, a pilot line, an injection line, a backflow prevention valve, a production tree, a wellhead, and production tubing. A method for actuating a valve in a chemical injection system may comprise pushing a fluid into a chemical line, pressurizing a pilot line to open a first valve, pushing the fluid through the first valve, increasing pressure in the pilot line to open a second valve, pushing the fluid through the second valve, pushing the fluid through a chemical line, and injecting fluid into a wellbore from the chemical line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Gregory James, Ibrahim El Mallawany
  • Patent number: 11746508
    Abstract: The invention relates in part to an autonomous, self-powered valve for continuous monitoring of water flow within a domestic or commercial water pipe network. The invention also relates to a network in which the valve is remotely monitored for detection of abnormalities in water use patterns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: Creative EC Limited
    Inventor: Philip John Riddles
  • Patent number: 11662267
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a storage device, for water monitoring are disclosed. A system includes one or more processors and one or more computer storage media storing instructions that are operable, when executed by the one or more processors, to cause the one or more processors to perform operations. The operations include determining with a leak sensor that a water leak is occurring at a property; after determining that the water leak is occurring at the property, determining that a water usage profile of a particular water consuming device matches characteristics of the water leak; based on determining that the water usage profile of a particular water consuming device matches characteristics of the water leak, identifying a water consuming device that is likely leaking; and in response to identifying the water consuming device that is likely leaking, performing a system action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: Alarm.com Incorporated
    Inventors: Grant Rudd, Harrison Wayne Donahue, Craig Carl Heffernan, Daniel Marc Goodman, Liam Shea Daly
  • Patent number: 11619318
    Abstract: The disclosure discloses a switch configured to switch an on-off state of a liquid flow conduit to a working mode controlled by a mechanical valve when an induction control component is detected not to be in a working state. The disclosure further discloses an induction control box including the switch, and an induction faucet including: a faucet having a automatic switch mode and a manual switch mode; a sensor arranged on the faucet; a solenoid valve arranged on a water output path and connected with the sensor, wherein when the sensor and solenoid valve are in a working state, the faucet supplies water by automatic switch mode; and a switch configured to switch the faucet from the automatic switch mode to manual switch mode when the sensor and/or the solenoid valve are detected not to be in the working state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2023
    Assignee: GUANGZHOU SEAGULL KITCHEN AND BATH PRODUCTS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yuan-Hung Yang, Andy Ou, Yongze He
  • Patent number: 11609586
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for relieving pressure in a fluid transportation system. Further, the apparatus may include an actuator configured to be mounted onto the handle of the flow control member. Further, the apparatus may include a valve sensor configured to be attached to a pressure relieving valve. Further, the apparatus may include an image capturing device configured to capture an image of a pressure gauge. Further, the apparatus may include a processing device communicatively coupled to the actuator, the valve sensor and the image capturing device. Further, the apparatus may include a storage device communicatively coupled to the processing device. Further, the apparatus may include a wireless transceiver communicatively coupled to the processing device. Further, the apparatus may include a touchscreen display device communicatively coupled to the processing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Inventor: Aaron Dwayne Lawson
  • Patent number: 11577184
    Abstract: A sand separation system and method for operating a sand separation system, in which the method includes separating sand from a fluid using a separator. The method includes, signaling for a blowdown unit to blowdown the separator, opening one or more blowdown valves of the blowdown unit coupled to the separator in response to the signaling, so as to blowdown the separator, and receiving the sand from the separator into a sand disposal unit. The sand passes through the one or more blowdown valves that are opened. The method includes measuring a weight of at least some of the sand that was separated in the separator using a load cell of the separator, a load cell of the sand disposal unit, or both, and determining a blowdown interval for subsequent blowdown operations of the separator based in part on the weight of the sand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Assignee: ENERCORP ENGINEERED SOLUTIONS INC.
    Inventors: Brent James William Coombe, Ryan Thomas Bowley, Nikolay Spiridonov, Rory Nagge, Tien Nguyen
  • Patent number: 11549243
    Abstract: Provided is a liquid dispensing device. The liquid dispensing device includes a cylinder body coupled to a sink and at least one nozzle coupled to the cylinder body. The at least one nozzle may include a first liquid discharge nozzle coupled to an upper region of the cylinder body to extend horizontally, the first liquid discharge nozzle being configured to supply a drinkable liquid, such as a purified liquid, a heated liquid, or a cooled liquid. The at least one nozzle may a second liquid discharge nozzle coupled to the cylinder body to extend horizontally, the second liquid discharge nozzle being positioned to be spaced apart from the first liquid discharge nozzle to supply a non-drinkable liquid, such as a sterilizing liquid containing hypochlorous acid or other additive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Soongy Jeong, Jewook Jeon, Dongkoo Han, Jingyu Ji, Sangnam Kim, Jongwon Yun, Junki Yeo, Youngseok Kim
  • Patent number: 11530757
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing device and method for controlling the device are provided. The device includes a housing defining a fluid outlet. A valve controls the flow of fluid to the outlet. A sensor is configured to detect an object outside of and proximate to the housing. A solenoid is configured to move the valve between an open position and a closed position. A controller is configured to receive the output signal of the sensor, determine a characteristic of noise in the output signal such as a level of noise; adjust at least one of a sampling rate of the output signal and an amount of filtering of the output signal responsive to the characteristic of noise in the output signal, and transmit a control signal to the solenoid responsive to the output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2022
    Assignee: MASCO CANADA LIMITED
    Inventors: David Paul Morrish, Bryan Fisher
  • Patent number: 11378232
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device for automatically opening or closing a gas barrel valve. The device includes: a main plate installed so as to move up and down and to align the position of a gas barrel loaded in a cabinet; a gas barrel connecting portion installed on the lower portion of the main plate, separating an end cap from the gas barrel and storing the end cap, and then automatically screw-coupling a connector holder to a gas spray nozzle; a valve handle unit installed on the main plate so as to rotate around a first shaft and rotating a valve handle of the gas barrel such that the valve handle is locked or unlocked, while encompassing the valve handle of the gas barrel; and a valve handle opening or closing unit installed on the upper portion of the main plate so as to operate the valve handle unit in a direction, in which a valve of the gas barrel is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: AMT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Du Chul Kim, Jong Seong Lee, Won Ho Choi
  • Patent number: 11377830
    Abstract: A faucet control system. The faucet control system includes a faucet with a first valve, a second valve, and a mobile application configured to control the second valve. The first valve may be manually controlled, and the second valve may be automatically or programmatically controlled. The second valve may be activated at a specific time. A software application on a mobile device is operably connected to the second valve, such that the application specifies the specific time the valve turns on or off. The faucet is programable to turn the water on, off, or a combination of the two as a user desires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Inventor: Erica Davis
  • Patent number: 11240976
    Abstract: A system and method for providing landscaping integration into a watering system or water management system. The system may include a processor with programmable landscape events or pre-programmed landscape events. A user may select or enter in landscape events to manipulate a watering or irrigation schedule based on the landscape event. The system may also be pre-programmed to a landscape event based on recurring or scheduled events to alter watering or irrigation. A landscaper may access a system on an electronic device that may be linked to a cloud based platform for managing the system or systems to allow for alteration and manipulation of watering and irrigation times and durations based on landscape events.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: Smart Rain Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Rudy Lars Larsen
  • Patent number: 11147995
    Abstract: A hydro fire mitigation system is provided that is associated with a structure. The system employs a number of sensors that detect an oncoming fire, which directs a controller to initiate fluid flow through a number of sprinklers. The system is fully autonomous and does not require municipal water or power during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: Waveguard Corporation
    Inventors: Michael H. Smith, Randy Lang, Ken DiPaolo
  • Patent number: 11047496
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a storage device, for detecting water leaks and mitigating the damage caused by the detected leaks. The system may include a processor and a storage device storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations. The operations may include obtaining sensor data that is generated by one or more flow rate sensors located at a property, obtaining status data that is generated by one or more connected water shutoff valves located at the property, determining, based on (i) the obtained sensor data and (ii) the obtained status data whether a water leak has been detected at the property, and in response to determining, based on (i) the obtained sensor data and (ii) the obtained status data, that a water leak has been detected at the property, initiating performance of one or more water damage mitigation operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: Alarm.com Incorporated
    Inventor: Ian McConnell
  • Patent number: 11015328
    Abstract: Provided is a sensor installation assembly relating to the faucet field and comprising a fixing base, a sensor and a fixing bolt, wherein the fixing base is in a shape matched with an installation object and is at least provided with installation guide grooves in sliding fit with a sensor and insert grooves allowing the fixing bolt to be inserted therein in a matched manner so as to limit the sensor in the installation guide grooves; the sensor is in sliding fit with the installation guide grooves; and the fixing bolt is inserted into the insert grooves of the fixing bolt in the matched manner. Also provided is a faucet at least comprising a water outlet base provided with the sensor installation assembly, and a sensor installation method. The sensor installation improvement technique is more adaptable and applicable to various faucet structures, and assembly is very convenient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: XIAMEN IEBS HI-TECH CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yang Lu, Xinxing Wang
  • Patent number: 11002267
    Abstract: A valve unit for a fluid working machine comprise a valve having a valve member (and optionally a valve seat), a valve actuator coupled to the valve member, and an electronic actuator controller which is integral to the valve unit and configured to actively control the valve actuator to thereby control the valve member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: ARTEMIS INTELLIGENT POWER LIMITED
    Inventors: William Rampen, Niall Caldwell, Stephen Laird, Michael Fielding, Peter McCurry, Mark Brett
  • Patent number: 10953423
    Abstract: A method of dispensing fluid from an apparatus includes determining a phase offset to separate actuation of a plurality of valve sub-sets into phases and determining a sub-phase offset to separate actuation of valves within each of the plurality of valve sub-sets. The method also includes sequentially actuating valves in a first sub-set based on the sub-phase offset, and sequentially actuating valves in a second sub-set based on the phase offset and the sub-phase offset such that (i) at least one valve in the second sub-set is actuated out of phase from a preceding valve in the first sub-set by the phase offset; and (ii) the at least one valve in the second sub-set is actuated out of phase from a preceding valve in the second sub-set by the sub-phase offset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: Capstan Ag Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Kale Schrader
  • Patent number: 10948101
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing device and method for controlling the device are provided. The device includes a housing defining a fluid outlet. A valve controls the flow of fluid to the outlet. A sensor is configured to detect an object outside of and proximate to the housing. A solenoid is configured to move the valve between an open position and a closed position. A controller is configured to receive the output signal of the sensor, determine a characteristic of noise in the output signal such as a level of noise; adjust at least one of a sampling rate of the output signal and an amount of filtering of the output signal responsive to the characteristic of noise in the output signal, and transmit a control signal to the solenoid responsive to the output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: MASCO CANADA LIMITED
    Inventors: David Paul Morrish, Bryan Fisher
  • Patent number: 10901439
    Abstract: A water management method for controlling at least one operational parameter of at least one water control device, wherein the operational parameter is associated with water used by the water control device, the method comprising: sending, from an electronic controller of the water control device, operational data associated with the operational parameter to an embedded electronic device; receiving, at the embedded electronic device, the operational data, and developing control data based on the received operational data and sending the control data to the electronic controller; and receiving, at the electronic controller, the control data and controlling the operational parameter of the water control device based on the received control data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignees: Caroma Industries Limited, micas AG
    Inventors: Steve Cummings, Michael Fritzsche, Mark Ebert
  • Patent number: 10847939
    Abstract: A reconfigurable modular power station is provided. The power station includes a mounting plate having a plurality of half moon cutouts. Also included is a half moon slot assembly. The half moon cutouts correspond to half moon slots in the half moon slot assembly. Each of the half moon slots include a power wire, a plurality of data wires, and a ground wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Inventor: Suriyont Mujjalintrakool
  • Patent number: 10842093
    Abstract: A device for dispensing liquids, in particular irrigation water, comprises a liquid tank (1) of displaceable type with a cover (2) for closing said tank (1), an electric pump (7) inserted into the cover (2) for drawing the liquid from the tank (1) and delivering the liquid itself to irrigation pipes extending outwards, and an electronic control unit (13) for setting the liquid delivering times. The electronic control unit (13) comprises a movable selector (15) for programming the times and durations of the liquid deliveries, a start button (16) for starting the selected program, and a display (17) for viewing the state of the device as a function of the selected program. An external power source (33) is provided, with the possibility of using rechargeable cells (35), which are automatically rechargeable and which can be enabled in case of absence of external power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: CLABER S.P.A.
    Inventor: Gian Luigi Spadotto
  • Patent number: 10774510
    Abstract: An overflow system for determining a level of a liquid to be contained in a container, which comprises a body extending along a longitudinal axis, the body being insertable within the container; and a level sensor unit secured to the body for detecting the level of the liquid along the longitudinal axis of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: MAAX BATH INC.
    Inventors: Charles Kerwin Braddock, Thomas Stuart Debaugh, Ashley Imsand
  • Patent number: 10732068
    Abstract: A system and method for determining a leakage condition of a fluid distribution system in view of a failure to detect a no flow condition at a fluid access point of the fluid distribution system for a pre-established time duration within a pre-established time period longer than the pre-established time duration. The system includes a sensor and optionally a valve, a reporting module and/or a control means. The valve is responsive to commands directing a blockage of flow of fluid. The reporting module may include an alerting module, a messaging module, a cellular phone, and/or an electronic communications network. The control means is coupled with the valve and is enabled to direct the controlling valve to block fluid flow. The control means may be integrated with elements of the reporting module. The leakage condition may be related to a leakage in an inflow direction or alternately in an outflow direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Inventor: Patrick Patrick Reilly
  • Patent number: 10697628
    Abstract: An illumination device for a faucet includes an opaque base supported above a translucent diffuser. A plurality of light emitters is supported by a substrate intermediate the base and the diffuser, wherein light from the light emitters is transmitted through the diffuser and outwardly to provide a display of substantially uniform light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignee: Delta Faucet Company
    Inventors: Michael Scot Rosko, Joel D. Sawaski
  • Patent number: 10688519
    Abstract: A nozzle apparatus in a distributed system controls the nozzle in the desired direction using a position-controlled motor and is controlled by a computer with pre-recorded or preset patterns. The apparatus may be a fountain apparatus, a sprinkler apparatus, or a pool apparatus where the nozzles of these apparatuses emit a pressurized liquid such as water. The position-controlled motor can be an inexpensive hobby servo, or an elaborate self-contained control system with a servomotor, and a computer commands the desired position of the motor with preset patterns. The preset patterns may have music along with control information of the nozzles, valves, lights, and pumps. An aesthetic water display is produced from the overall systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Inventor: Richard Anthony Bishel
  • Patent number: 10647309
    Abstract: A quick service limiting valve includes a housing defining an interior chamber, a brake pipe passageway, and a brake cylinder passageway, a valve member received within the interior chamber of the housing, with the valve member including a body, a first seal, a second seal, and a valve spring. The body of the valve member defines a valve passageway, with the valve member having a first position where the valve passageway allows fluid communication between the brake pipe passageway and the brake cylinder passageway and a second position where the brake pipe passageway is isolated from the brake cylinder passageway. The valve further includes a follower assembly received within the interior chamber of the housing, with the follower assembly including a body, a first check valve, a second check valve, a diaphragm, and a follower spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: WESTINGHOUSE AIR BRAKE TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: William John Potter, Ryan Repko, Edward W. Gaughan
  • Patent number: 10582673
    Abstract: Described herein are several embodiments relating to modular irrigation controllers. In many implementations, the irrigation controllers are modular in that various functional components of the irrigation controller are implemented in removable modules that when inserted into position within the controller, expand the capabilities of the controller. Also described are various different types of expansion modules that may be coupled to the modular controller, having as variety of functions and features, as well as related methods of use and configuration of these modules in the controller. In one implementation, an expansion module is provided that includes a microcontroller capable of sending and receiving data communications to and from a main microcontroller of the controller that executed irrigation programs, the data communications relating to an irrigation program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Assignee: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventors: Harvey J. Nickerson, Russel D. Leatherman, Jose Macias Galarza, Bill Merkt
  • Patent number: 10481619
    Abstract: A water management method for controlling at least one operational parameter of at least one water control device, wherein the operational parameter is associated with water used by the water control device, the method comprising the steps of: sending, from an electronic controller of the water control device, operational data associated with the operational parameter to an embedded electronic device; receiving, at the embedded electronic device, the operational data, and developing control data based on the received operational data and sending the control data to the electronic controller; and receiving, at the electronic controller, the control data and controlling the operational parameter of the water control device based on the received control data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignees: Caroma Industries Limited, Micas AG
    Inventors: Steve Cummings, Michael Fritzsche, Mark Ebert
  • Patent number: 10471458
    Abstract: A nozzle apparatus in a distributed system controls the nozzle in the desired direction using a position-controlled motor and is controlled by a computer with pre-recorded or preset patterns. The apparatus may be a fountain apparatus, a sprinkler apparatus, or a pool apparatus where the nozzles of these apparatuses emit a pressurized liquid such as water. The position-controlled motor can be an inexpensive hobby servo, or an elaborate self-contained control system with a servomotor, and a computer commands the desired position of the motor with preset patterns. The preset patterns may have music along with control information of the nozzles, valves, lights, and pumps. An aesthetic water display is produced from the overall systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Inventor: Richard Anthony Bishel
  • Patent number: 10458570
    Abstract: A valve operating method for a sprinkler system with a plurality of electrical valves is disclosed. The method includes the following steps: receiving a user generated query signal; generating a first set of the control signals to a driving circuit of the plurality of electrical valves of the sprinkler system in response to the query signal; generating a detection signal successive to the first set of the control signals; orderly sending the detection signal to the plurality of solenoid valves; and sensing a voltage level of a sensing terminal of the driving circuit, and obtaining a sensing result accordingly. A first sub-circuit of the driving circuit is disabled in response to the first set of the control signals. The valve control device include electronic parts to implement the above-mentioned steps is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: AEON MATRIX INC.
    Inventor: Ming-Je Tsai
  • Patent number: 10413764
    Abstract: Water mist fire protection systems and methods for the protection of data centers having a raised floor defining an interstitial space beneath the floor. The systems and methods include the location of a plurality of automatic water mist nozzles above and/or beneath the floor to generate a water mist for effectively addressing a fire in the presence of a flow of forced air ventilation through the interstitial space. The systems and methods of water mist fire protection include the interconnection of the automatic water mist nozzles to a water supply to provide for dry pipe or preaction systems and methods. Water mist fire protection of data centers using fire propagating cable is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignees: TYCO FIRE PRODUCTS LP, LPG TECNICAS EN EXTINCION DE INCENDIOS, S.L.
    Inventors: Sean E. Cutting, Alex Palau Bosch
  • Patent number: 10385684
    Abstract: Systems and methods for communicating downhole signals using a mud pulser. The method includes encoding data collected from a downhole sensor as symbols into electrical pulses received by the mud pulser; transmitting the electrical pulses as pressure pulses through using the mud pulser; converting the pressure pulses into full wave pressure signals; processing the full wave pressure signals to recover the symbols; and decoding the symbols to provide the data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: Pulse Directional Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Antal Soos, Karl Edler, Steve Braisher
  • Patent number: 10380272
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method, computer program product and computing system for management of a pressure pipe network is provided. A processor retrieves a topology model of a pipe network. The processor retrieves one or more measurement expressions of the pressure pipe network. The processor determines a parameter list for a first measurement expression, wherein a first parameter of the parameter list represents a cutting point measurement device. The processor generates a first subsystem of the pipe network based, at least in part on, the first parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Yong Deng Hu, Eoin Lane, Xiao Lv, Jian Wang, Ke Zhang
  • Patent number: 10380274
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method, computer program product and computing system for management of a pressure pipe network is provided. A processor retrieves a topology model of a pipe network. The processor retrieves one or more measurement expressions of the pressure pipe network. The processor determines a parameter list for a first measurement expression, wherein a first parameter of the parameter list represents a cutting point measurement device. The processor generates a first subsystem of the pipe network based, at least in part on, the first parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Yong Deng Hu, Eoin Lane, Xiao Lv, Jian Wang, Ke Zhang
  • Patent number: 10319395
    Abstract: A system and method for predictively generating visual experiences based on streaming audio is disclosed. More specifically, the present invention is directed to systems and apparatus for analyzing streaming audio and predictively mapping the information in the stream to a sequence of visual patterns generated by a lighting system in a manner that induces a perceptual association between the streaming audio and visual patterns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2019
    Assignee: LIMBIC MEDIA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Justin Thomas Love, Manjinder Singh Benning, Adam Elliot, Jakob Leben, Gabrielle Odowichuk
  • Patent number: 10260322
    Abstract: A plunger catch assembly for a lubricator includes a catch housing and catch end cap. The catch housing and catch end cap form a dart cylinder and a diaphragm cylinder. The dart cylinder allows a dart positioned at least partially therein to slidingly and selectively extend into the lubricator to catch a plunger. The dart may be coupled to a diaphragm by a spring and spring plate. The plunger catch assembly may be reconfigurable between a pneumatic configuration and a manual configuration. The end cap may include a machine thread for coupling a handle assembly and a pneumatic coupler for coupling a pneumatic line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: PRIORITY ARTIFICIAL LIFT SERVICES, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel J. Brewer, Roddy W. Simpson, Jr., Joseph E. Kutac, Robert M. Wilkerson
  • Patent number: 10239005
    Abstract: A filter housing of a filter for air, water, fuel, oil or urea-water solution of an internal combustion engine, including: an inlet for fluid to be purified; and an outlet for purified fluid; a hollow filter element including a filter medium for filtering fluid, which surrounds an element interior space with respect to a filter axis, is exchangeably arranged so as to separate the inlet from outlet; wherein the filter housing has at least two housing parts, which can be partly be separated from one another in order to open up an installation opening of the filter housing for the hollow filter element; wherein at least one of the housing parts has connecting tab(s) and at least one other of the housing parts has a tab receptacle(s) adapted to a connecting tab(s) for the insertion of the at least one connecting tab for connecting the housing parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: MANN+HUMMEL GmbH
    Inventor: Pedro Miguel Pereira Madeira
  • Patent number: 10221656
    Abstract: A system and process relating to well fracturing and stimulation operations are provided. The system and process allow for fracturing multiple zones in a wellbore. The system and process provide for introducing a fluid through a plurality of spaced-apart sleeve assemblies wherein each sleeve assembly can be in an operable state which allows the sleeve assembly to be open or closed and can be in a non-operable state which prevents the sleeve assembly from opening or closing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: Sagerider, Incorporated
    Inventors: Ryan Barton, Tyler Wall, Stephen Lee Jackson, Ledif Basanta
  • Patent number: 10206342
    Abstract: Some embodiments provide an interface unit interfacing with an irrigation controller, comprising: a housing; a controller configured to instruct an interruption of a watering schedule executed by the irrigation controller, the interruption based on one or both of sensed temperature and sensed rainfall amount, and based on one or both of user entered temperature and rainfall threshold parameters; a switching device coupled with the controller, and configured to cause the interruption in response to signaling from the controller; and a user interface comprising: a plurality of user input devices configured to provide signaling to the controller based upon user's engagement, and configured to allow the user to define the temperature and rainfall threshold parameters; and a user display comprising a display screen; wherein the controller is configured to cause the display screen to display a plurality of pictorial representations that in combination convey whether irrigation is being interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventors: David M. Redmond, Michael J. Tennyson, Randall A. Hern, Gerald E. Peterson, David G. Fern
  • Patent number: 10145090
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for regulating water flow in a pipe. A water flow regulator includes a valve configured to regulate water flow, a power source, a communication module and a processor. The communication module is configured to receive instructions pertaining to water flow regulation over a wireless network and to send instructions to the processor. The instructions are based at least in part on weather data and on the physical location of the water flow regulator. The processor is coupled to the communication module, and is configured to send a control signal to the valve to regulate the water flow in accordance with a received instruction from the communication module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: James C. Fletcher
  • Patent number: 10113491
    Abstract: An actuation system for a valve is disclosed. The actuation system comprises a housing having an end wall. A first piston and a second piston is slidably positioned within the housing. The second piston is positioned between the first piston and the end wall. A piston rod is coupled to the first piston and slidably extends through the second piston and the end wall. The piston rod is configured to be coupled with the valve. A first spring is arranged between the first piston and the second piston. Further, a second spring is arranged between the second piston and the end wall. The first spring and the second spring are configured to bias the valve to a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph J. Stabnik, Malcolm Trimm, Lawrence Chandler, Cormac Quinn, Ryan M Brown, Stephen J. Marshall
  • Patent number: 10092785
    Abstract: In one implementation, a computer-implemented method includes receiving, at a computer system, information that indicates that a fire has been detected in a building and that a fire suppression system within the building has begun dousing the fire; monitoring sensor information from one or more sensors located within the building; determining, by the computer system and based on the sensor information, whether the fire has been extinguished; activating, in response to determining that the fire has been extinguished, a feature to turn off a water supply to the building, the feature being presented on a computing device for a user who is associated with the building; receiving, after activating the feature and from the computing device, a command to turn off the water supply; and transmitting, by the computer system, a control signal that causes an electromechanical device to close a water valve within the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: WWTemplar LLC
    Inventors: Joseph Schmitt, Michael Kramer, Ronak Desai, Randall Kurtz
  • Patent number: 10045451
    Abstract: A lighting control system may include a main lighting controller having an opening therein and a main coupler for connecting to an expansion pack. An expansion pack of the lighting control system may have a connector having an opening therein and an expansion coupler for connecting to the main lighting controller. Junction boxes may be configured to connect to the main lighting controller and expansion pack based on a predetermined distance associated with openings of the main lighting controller and expansion pack. Installation of a combined main lighting controller and expansion pack at a plurality of junction boxes may be coordinated. A method may include combining a main lighting controller and an expansion pack, connecting two or more junction boxes to one another to form an array, and connecting the two or more junction boxes to the main lighting controller and expansion pack in accordance with a predetermined spacing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: Universal Lighting Technologies
    Inventors: Rob Mahaffey, John Cavacuiti, John Hung, Audey Korpus, Tony Lee, Tan Ly, Kaveh Malakuti
  • Patent number: 10030818
    Abstract: A liquid-flow monitoring device (10) arranged to monitor the flow of liquid in a conduit. The device (10) comprises sampling means (20), processing means (30) and data storage means (40). The sampling means is arranged to receive data substantially continuously from a sensor (12) indicative of at least one variable sensed by the sensor (12) indicative of fluid flow in a conduit and to sample the data to produce a stream of sampled data. The processing means (30) is arranged to process the stream of sampled data to extract at least one sub-sampled stream therefrom, the sub-sampled stream comprising a plurality of data sets, each data set being a statistical subset of the stream of sampled data over a respective data-set period. The data storage means (40) is arranged to store the at least one sub-sampled stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: IMPERIAL INNOVATIONS LIMITED
    Inventors: Asher John Hoskins, Ivan Iordanov Stoianov
  • Patent number: 10028453
    Abstract: A pressure indexing valve having an inlet assembly, a timer disk, a plunger assembly, a main body assembly, and an outlet assembly. The inlet assembly has an inlet endcap, a base, and a bypass housing which houses a ball, a ball return spring, and a set screw. The timer disk has flow thru-holes, an upper cam profile, and a lower cam profile. The plunger assembly has a piston, a plunger shaft, holes, and grommets. The main body assembly has a recess inset to receive the timer disk. The inlet assembly is secured onto the main body assembly to house the timer disk, and the plunger assembly. The outlet assembly has outlet passages, and outlet markers. The main body assembly is secured onto the outlet assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: ZAP MOSQUITO SOLUTIONS INC.
    Inventor: Keith Donald Brookins
  • Patent number: 10016643
    Abstract: A hydro fire mitigation system is provided that is associated with a structure. The system employs a number of sensors that detect an oncoming fire, which directs a controller to initiate fluid flow through a number of sprinklers. The system is fully autonomous and does not require municipal water or power during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: WAVEGUARD CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael H. Smith, Randy Lang, Ken DiPaolo
  • Patent number: 10006550
    Abstract: A plug member of gas valve has an axial bore, a first bore, and a second bore, wherein the first bore and the second bore are located in a radial direction of the plug member, and communicate with the axial bore, respectively. A diameter of the first bore is larger than that of the second bore. A first guiding slot and at least one first oil groove are recessed into the outer peripheral surface of the plug member, wherein the first guiding slot has a first end communicating with the first bore, and a second end near the second bore without physically communicating with the second end. The at least one first oil groove is near the second end of the first guiding slot without physically communicating with the first guiding slot or the second bore. Whereby, the first oil groove provides space for receiving lubricant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: GRAND MATE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chung-Chin Huang, Chin-Ying Huang, Hsin-Ming Huang, Hsing-Hsiung Huang, Yen-Jen Yeh