Self-cycling Patents (Class 137/624.14)
  • Patent number: 11926208
    Abstract: A reserve fuel tank retention and control (RTRC) module and a method of operating a vehicle including an engine and a main fuel tank containing a fuel, the method including mounting the RTRC module onto the vehicle; fluidly connecting the RTRC module to the engine and to the main fuel tank; actuating a valve of the RTRC module for a predetermined time to purge moisture in a fuel supply hose into the engine; and upon the main fuel tank becoming empty, actuating the valve to allow fuel from the reserve fuel tank to supply the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: S & J 117, LLC
    Inventors: Samuel S. Conte, Jeffrey Britton
  • Patent number: 11701202
    Abstract: A dental apparatus is disclosed. The dental apparatus can comprise a pressure wave generator to be disposed at a treatment region of a tooth. The pressure wave generator can include an opening to deliver a flowable filling material to the treatment region. The apparatus can include a reservoir for supplying the filling material to the pressure wave generator. The pressure wave generator can be configured to generate pressure waves through the treatment region to cause the filling material to substantially fill the treatment region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: SONENDO, INC.
    Inventors: Mehrzad Khakpour, Bjarne Bergheim
  • Patent number: 11280428
    Abstract: A pneumatic trip valve that may include a valve structure, a switch plate air path and an internal check valve. In various aspects, the pneumatic trip valve may be connected to a valve positioner, an actuator, or a combination thereof to control the operation of a fluid process control valve. In operation, the Pneumatic trip valve acts to put the actuator in a preset fail-safe position when the actuator loses sufficient pressure or communication from a main air supply, stored pressurized air from an actuator air reservoir, and/or an external air reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Assignee: EASYTORK AUTOMATION CORPORATION
    Inventor: George Wang
  • Patent number: 11118369
    Abstract: A pool cleaner comprises a housing including at least two wheels, a supply mast, and a timer disc assembly configured to receive water from the supply mast. The timer disc assembly includes an outer housing, a plurality of outlet ports extending through the outer housing, and a rotating timer disc positioned within the outer housing adjacent to the plurality of outlet ports. The timer disc assembly also includes at least one stationary port seal liner positioned between one of the plurality of outlet ports and the rotating timer disc. The at least one stationary port seal liner includes an elastomeric piece and a liner piece, and the liner piece is in contact with the rotating timer disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc.
    Inventors: Suresh Gopalan, Nitin Agarwal, Jayamurali Kaladharan, Brian King, Leonard Richiuso
  • Patent number: 11035629
    Abstract: A heat exchange apparatus includes a heat exchanger through which a heat exchange medium flows inside, a fluid transport device that causes the heat exchange medium to flow, and a flow path through which the heat exchange medium flows. The heat exchange apparatus includes a flow rate controller configured to increase or decrease the flow rate of the heat exchange medium flowing through the flow path, and a driving part that drives the flow rate controller by receiving a force from the flow of the heat exchange medium flowing through the flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yousuke Goto, Kimio Kohara, Satoshi Sakimichi, Shogo Kawaguchi
  • Patent number: 11007343
    Abstract: A flow regulating valve for a respiratory treatment system is disclosed, as well as a vent arrangement comprising the flow regulating valve. The flow regulating valve may include an inlet, an outlet, and a variable conduit in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet. The variable conduit may include a movable portion that may move to vary an impedance of the variable conduit, thereby regulating a flow rate of the air travelling through the variable conduit. Advantageously, the flow regulating valve may thus reduce wastage of air (e.g. humidified air) that is exhausted from a respiratory treatment system, while maintaining sufficient washout of air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: ResMed Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Liam Holley, Barton John Kenyon, Gordon Joseph Malouf, Luke Andrew Stanislas
  • Patent number: 10973182
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a method includes receiving, by a wireless component of a wireless valve switch system via a wireless network, wireless instructions and causing, by the wireless component based on the wireless instructions, actuation of a sprinkler valve. In some embodiments, a wireless valve switch system includes a wireless component configured to be electrically coupled to a sprinkler valve. The wireless component includes a controller to receive, via a wireless network, wireless instructions and cause, based on the wireless instructions, actuation of the sprinkler valve. In some embodiments, a wireless valve switch system includes a turbine component that includes a casing forming a chamber configured to be fluidly coupled to a sprinkler valve. The turbine component further includes a turbine disposed in the chamber and configured to rotate responsive to fluid flow through the chamber to power an electrical component configured to be electrically coupled to the sprinkler valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: Thrive Smart Systems Incorporated
    Inventors: Seth Paulo Bangerter, Skyler Rowley, Bryan Christopher Brittain, Gregory T. Parker, Grant Rowberry
  • Patent number: 10895329
    Abstract: Provided is a fluid control system including upstream-side and downstream-side base blocks, each defining a flow path provided with flow path ports, including a screw hole and a screw hole formed between the two flow path ports in longitudinal directions, and coupling to the upstream-side and downstream-side base blocks and a body of a fluid device by tightening bolts. End portions of the upstream-side and downstream-side base blocks are coupled to each other by the tightening bolts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Assignee: FUJIKIN INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Hidehiro Doya, Masaru Sato
  • Patent number: 10699887
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a preparation and feed apparatus of a standard sample for calibration of a trace-analysis instrument, and especially to a preparation and feed apparatus of a standard sample for calibration of a gas chromatograph-ion mobility spectrometer. When the trace-analysis instrument is being calibrated by taking advantage of the preparation and feed apparatus according to embodiments of the disclosure, it is unnecessary to use an additional dedicated tool and steps to prepare the sample for testing and to use an organic solvent or a dedicated sample application/dispensing tool, resulting in that the trace-analysis instrument is simple and convenient to carry and use, and the substance for calibration is also convenient to store and exchange; moreover, the trace-analysis instrument is also safe, reliable and environmentally friendly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignee: NUCTECH COMPANY LIMITED
    Inventors: Qingjun Zhang, Yuanjing Li, Ziran Zhao, Weiping Zhu, Nan Bai, Qiufeng Ma
  • Patent number: 10626862
    Abstract: A device for monitoring a pneumatically-actuated alternating linear displacement pump is provided, and a system for monitoring a pneumatically-actuated alternating linear displacement pump is provided, which include elements for sensing pneumatic pressure, elements for transmitting a signal representative of the sensed pneumatic pressure, and elements for managing the pneumatically-actuated alternating linear displacement pump in accordance with the transmitted signal representative of the sensed pneumatic pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: Exel Industries
    Inventors: Philippe De Talhouet, Cédric Mosnier
  • Patent number: 10619855
    Abstract: A fuel injection system for a gas turbine engine includes a fuel delivery conduit, a nozzle block with a nozzle aperture, and a cavity block with a cavity. The nozzle aperture has a first cross sectional area, and injects fuel received from the fuel delivery conduit into the cavity. The cavity has a second cross sectional area that is greater than the first cross sectional area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Torence P. Brogan, Jeffery A. Lovett, Christopher A. Eckett, May L. Corn
  • Patent number: 10422362
    Abstract: A fluidic device comprises a first channel conduit, a valve apparatus, and an additional element adjacent to the first channel conduit. The first channel conduit transports fluid from a first fluid entrance to a fluid exit. In one embodiment, the additional element is a pump chamber that receives fluid from a second fluid entrance and pumps fluid into the first channel conduit in accordance with fluid pressure. Alternatively, the additional elements include a second channel conduit and a neck of the first channel conduit. The first channel conduit and the second channel conduit share a common wall. Fluid pressure in the first channel conduit controls a valve apparatus. The value apparatus controls a rate of fluid flow in the first channel conduit by deforming the common wall to change a cross-sectional area of the neck, which changes a rate of fluid flow in the second channel conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: Facebook Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Garett Andrew Ochs
  • Patent number: 10309200
    Abstract: A fluid module includes a fluid rotor configured to rotatably drive or be driven by fluid produced from a wellbore. A first shaft is coupled to the fluid rotor. The first shaft is configured to rotate in unison with the fluid rotor. A thrust bearing module includes a thrust bearing rotor. A second shaft is coupled to the thrust bearing rotor. The second shaft is configured to rotate in unison with the thrust bearing rotor. The second shaft is coupled to the first shaft. An electric machine module includes an electric machine rotor. A third shaft is coupled to the electric machine rotor. A third shaft is configured to rotate in unison with the electric machine rotor. The third shaft is coupled to the second shaft. The third shaft is rotodynamically isolated from the first shaft and the second shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: Upwing Energy, LLC
    Inventors: Patrick McMullen, Herman Artinian, Kuo-Chiang Chen, David Biddick
  • Patent number: 10190794
    Abstract: A system and method to control environmental parameters of predefined zones within a structure. An embodiment of the system uses damper assemblies that are entirely wireless as a result of energy capturing devices which convert air flow within the HVAC system ductwork into electrical current and a wireless control module that remove the need for hard-wiring for power or control. Still further, an embodiment of the system uses wireless components to monitor the environmental parameters of a structure's zones, process and communicate necessary zone adjustments, and actuate system components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: ARZEL ZONING TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Al Zelczer, Leonard Roth, Richard Wilson, Kenneth Barton, Adam Bush
  • Patent number: 10113693
    Abstract: A lubricant distributor for delivering lubricant to at least one lubrication point includes a lubricant distributor housing with a cylinder bore, a metering piston mounted for reciprocal movement in the cylinder bore, and a detector connected at an end of the cylinder bore, the detector including an entry bore configured to receive a portion of the metering piston, and the entry bore being in fluid communication with the cylinder bore, and the detector including an interior space separated from the entry bore by a wall and a Hall sensor in the interior space. The detector is configured to output a detection signal in response to detecting the portion of the metering piston in the entry bore. Also a method of operating the lubricant distributor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: SKF LUBRICATION SYSTEMS GERMANY GmbH
    Inventor: Armin Guenther
  • Patent number: 10085825
    Abstract: A water control valve includes a valve body defining a valve body internal cavity, a first air inlet passageway in communication with the valve body internal cavity, a first water outlet passageway in communication with the valve body internal cavity, and a water inlet passageway. The water control valve further includes a valve cartridge removably coupled to the valve body. The valve cartridge is sized to fit at least partially within the valve body internal cavity. The valve cartridge defines a second air inlet passageway and a second water outlet passageway. The first air inlet passageway is aligned with the second air inlet passageway and the first water outlet passageway is aligned with the second water outlet passageway when the valve cartridge is coupled to the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: KAVO DENTAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Mark Benfield, Lindsey Michael Howe
  • Patent number: 9877801
    Abstract: A dental apparatus is disclosed. The dental apparatus can comprise a pressure wave generator to be disposed at a treatment region of a tooth. The pressure wave generator can include an opening to deliver a flowable filling material to the treatment region. The apparatus can include a reservoir for supplying the filling material to the pressure wave generator. The pressure wave generator can be configured to generate pressure waves through the treatment region to cause the filling material to substantially fill the treatment region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Assignee: SONENDO, INC.
    Inventors: Mehrzad Khakpour, Bjarne Bergheim
  • Patent number: 9808896
    Abstract: Positive feed tools that include gear heads configured to be driven by a motor. The gear heads further include a pneumatic manifold that provides for access to input/output signals to add on additional components that include additional air logic functionality. The gear head includes first and second interface positions. Each interface is configured to receive either the motor for powering the gear head or an add-on component to provide additional functionality to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Apex Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin Myhill
  • Patent number: 9790018
    Abstract: A non-electrically powered automatic dosing and spraying valve assembly for a container of pressurized fluid with an outlet valve is described, wherein the valve assembly comprises a housing containing at least two chambers wherein one of those chambers is a main chamber open at one end to the contents of the container and closed at one end by a movable plunger, and another of those chambers is a dose chamber closed at one end by the movable plunger and closed at the other end by a prodder seal formed between a movable prodder and a fluid outlet opening; wherein the movable plunger is biased against movement toward the dose chamber by a main spring means and a prodder spring means, the main spring means being mounted in or adjacent to the dose chamber and the prodder spring means being connected to both the movable plunger and movable prodder, the assembly further comprises a fluid leak path between the main chamber and the dose chamber; and wherein the assembly is arranged such that, in use, one movable comp
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: LEAFGREEN LIMITED
    Inventor: Keith Laidler
  • Patent number: 9617086
    Abstract: A process and device for controlled feeding of incoherent solid materials for differentiated pressure systems along a pipeline through the pressure of a fluid in the gaseous state. The pipeline is obtained by combining a plurality of consecutive trunk sections. The device includes a mechanism for intermittent feeding of the incoherent solid material in the pipeline, a mechanism for feeding the gaseous fluid under pressure in a plurality of predefined feeding points of the pipeline, a first series of valve members applied to each trunk section for intercepting the pipeline under control, a second series of valve members applied to each trunk section for allowing the escape of the expanded gaseous fluid from the pipeline and centralized control for closing the first series of valve members and for the concurrent opening of the second series of valve members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Inventor: Armin Rusterholz
  • Patent number: 9300106
    Abstract: The invention relates to a laser device (10) comprising at least one laser unit (20) for generating laser light, and cooling means (30) for cooling said laser unit, said cooling means including a channel arrangement (35) through which a cooling fluid is circulated for transferring heat away from the laser unit. The laser device is characterized in that a mounting member (46) for releasably holding a fluid container (50) is provided, the mounting member comprises a first connector element (42) for connecting to a second connector element (44) of the fluid container in a fluid tight manner, and the mounting member is connected with the channel arrangement. The invention further relates to a fluid container for cooling fluid for use in the laser device. The fluid container is designed as a cartridge (50) and comprises an information storage means (60) for storing information about the container and the cooling fluid filled in said fluid container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Assignee: Alltec Angewandte Laserlicht Technologie GmbH
    Inventors: Kevin L. Armbruster, Brad D. Gilmartin, Peter J. Kueckendahl, Bernard J. Richard, Daniel J. Ryan
  • Patent number: 9016315
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mechanism, intended for assembly on an irrigation emitter, which includes a cylindrical housing (2) in which the pressure of the water flowing through the emitter moves a first disc-shaped part (3), thus rotating a tubular body (7) which in turn rotates a cylindrical part (9) which is connected to a second disc-shaped part (12), to which end screws (15) are connected, the extent to which said screws are tightened defining in the displacement and rotation of the parts the operation of the emitter during either one of the possible time periods relative to the total time commanded by the irrigation controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Melcart Projects, S.L.
    Inventor: Luz Enseñat De Carlos
  • Patent number: 8973608
    Abstract: The amplifier includes a housing containing a chamber with a delivery outlet containing a non-return delivery valve. An inlet pipe projects into the chamber and a resilient obturator ring is engaged with and located about the pipe to be resiliently-movable in the chamber. An annular exhaust aperture surrounding the pipe can be sealed by the obturator ring, the obturator ring being responsive to fluid flow in the inlet pipe such that fluid flow causes the obturator ring to oscillate between conditions which alternately permit and prevent fluid from leaving the chamber through the exhaust aperture thereby causing a pulsed pressure increase in the fluid flowing through the delivery outlet. An adjuster is provided for adjusting the distance by which the fluid inlet pipe projects into the chamber and moves the pipe using co-operably inclined faces. The obturator ring and the delivery valve are shaped to create a venturi effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: Frederick Philip Selwyn
  • Patent number: 8752582
    Abstract: An improved sequencing fluid control valve comprising a housing having inlet and outlet ports, a valve seat disposed within the housing, a collapsible valve member disposed within the housing and forming a chamber and a bulb. A sequencing means disposed within the chamber that controls the axial motion of the valve member in response to application of fluid pressure at the inlet such that the motion of valve member alternates between an open free flowing state and a closed restricted flow state. Housing and valve member cooperate in the open position to provide an annular flow path that does not require the fluid flow direction to substantially change while flowing from inlet to outlet. Housing and valve member bulb cooperate in the closed position to form a circumferential seal to restrict the fluid flow. Alternative embodiments including viscous damping means and variations on the housing mount are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Aeromaster Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Spitzer
  • Patent number: 8701703
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a method and apparatus for controlling gas flow via a gas shut-off valve assembly. In at least one embodiment, the assembly is configured to drive its shut-off valve from an open position to a closed position, in response to detecting a valve closure condition. The assembly in one or more embodiments operates as an intelligent node in an AMR network, and it interprets a received closure command as a closure condition. Additionally, or alternatively, the assembly detects abnormal operating conditions as the closure condition. Advantageously, the assembly performs initial closure verification, based on detecting movement of the valve into the closed position, and performs subsequent closure verification, based on monitoring downstream gas pressure. In the same or other embodiments, the assembly provides enhanced stand-alone reliability and safety by incorporating one or more valve clearing/cleaning routines into its operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Sensus USA Inc.
    Inventors: Tim Scott, Dirk Steckmann, Daniel W. Peace, Doug Vargas
  • Publication number: 20130248457
    Abstract: A control valve assembly including a water meter usage assembly including discs which are relatively positionable to adjust the frequency at which regeneration in a water treatment system starts. A regeneration control disc mounted coaxially with the meter disc assembly includes structure for releasing a drive mechanism associated with the meter disc assembly to rotate it back to a start position under a predetermined operating condition. The discs are releasably held in their relative positions by at least one pawl and at least one of the discs is rotatable relative to the other disc. The regeneration frequency is determined by an initiation slot in one of the discs and its operative position is determined by disc positions. The regeneration control disc is rotated by a pawl mechanism that is activated when an associated cam follower is received by the regeneration initiation slot formed in the water meter usage assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventors: Stuart L. Park, Jerome Kovach
  • Patent number: 8397744
    Abstract: A distribution valve monitor to monitor the operation of a distribution valve of the type having an inlet and a plurality of outlets, which couples the outlets to the inlet according to a desired fluid distribution pattern comprises a plurality of non-contact sensors disposed at spaced locations about the distribution valve to sense activation of the valve to different operating conditions. A controller communicates with the sensors and records data representing the operation of the valve. The recorded data is examined to detect improper operation of the distribution valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventors: Iain A. F. Galloway, Kelly A. Galloway
  • Patent number: 8393352
    Abstract: Known water supply systems are fed from a source of water such as a tank (6) via a pump (5) to outlets which are occludable by means of a cock (C1-C3). A water pressure sensitive electrical switch (S1) is located downstream of the pump (5) and upstream of the outlets. The switch (S1) is connected in series with an electrical supply for the pump and turns the pump on in response in a drop in water pressure downstream of the switch. Similarly the pump is turned off in response to water pressure downstream to the switch reaching a predetermined minimum pressure, A control system is disclosed in the form of a timer (T) connected in parallel with the pump (5) and energized via the switch (S1). A normally closed safeguard switch (S2) is connected in series with the pump and rendered non-conductive by the timer (T) being energized for a predetermined period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: H2O Organiser Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Robert Porter-Coote
  • Publication number: 20120228395
    Abstract: An electric solenoid valve, methods for operating and/or actuating the solenoid valve, valve system diagnostics, and applications for use are described. The valve may be designed to actuate in a manner so as to control liquid flow into and/or through a device, such as a spray nozzle. By altering the characteristics of the electrical signal transmitted to the solenoid valve, the instantaneous pressure across the valve and duration of fluid flow through the valve can be controlled with a single actuator. Controlled cyclic durations of flow may be implemented to regulate the exact timing of flow through the valve. Alternatively, cyclic durations may occur with a pulse-width modulation technique in which the duty cycle regulates average flow rate through the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: Capstan AG Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Duane Needham, Andrew J. Holtz
  • Patent number: 8240328
    Abstract: A centralized automatic fluid or gas spill prevention and shut-off valve system that prevents line ruptures comprising means to reduce fluid pressures, such as gas, to appropriate levels, a continuous monitoring of downstream conditions, an immediate stop system of major spillage caused by excessive flow wherein said immediate stop system automatically shuts off the flow of fluids, means for timed shut off of minor fluid flows that exceed a predetermined amount of time and a restarting system that restarts when overflow conditions are corrected, wherein said restarting system works automatically or manually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Luis Guillermo Ramirez-Diaz
  • Patent number: 8215332
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a zone indicator and vacuum breaker combination. The zone indicator assembly includes a body having a funnel shaped interior providing a seal seat. A seal is provided upon a vacuum breaker flange of a shaft assembly. A lower end of the shaft assembly engages with a valve operating stem assembly of a rotating valve selecting disc. A zone indicator cap is assembled to an upper end of the shaft assembly. The cap adjusts vertically upon a body and cap interface disposed upon an upper end of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventors: Christopher L. Hubschmitt, Justin C. Miller, Gunter A. Albert
  • Patent number: 7992527
    Abstract: A water feed controller which can provide for the addition of a preset fixed amount of water to be added after a low water condition is removed. This system provides for a preset fixed amount of water to be added to a boiler above the amount which triggers the low water condition. This generally inhibits excess cycling from the boiler operating at its minimum safe water level as well as inhibiting overfilling of the boiler. Further, there is discussed a water feed controller which can measure the amount of water added over a prior predetermined period (such as 30 days) which serves as a floating window of time so that a leak or other condition resulting in overly frequent filling can be detected quickly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignees: Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC, Taco, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Merwin
  • Patent number: 7892419
    Abstract: Device for treating water with a supply (3); a treatment tank (4); a drain (9); a regulator (13); and a bypass (22) which connects the supply (3) to the drain (9), characterised in that in the main canalisation (2), on either side of the regulator (13), is provided a shut-off valve (12, 14); in that the device (1) comprises a first shunt canalisation (18) which bridges the first shut-off valve (12) and the regulator (13) and comprises a second shunt canalisation (20) which bridges the regulator (13) and the second shut-off valve (14), whereby both shunt canalisations (18, 20) comprise a shut-off valve (19, 21), and whereby the shut-off valves (12, 14) are open on either side of the regulator (13) during the treatment phase, whereas the other shut-off valves (19, 21) are open during the rinse or regeneration phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Delta Water Engineering Limited
    Inventor: Guido Van De Moortele
  • Publication number: 20100186838
    Abstract: An improved sequencing fluid control valve comprising a housing having an inlet port and an outlet port, a valve seat disposed within the housing, a collapsible valve member disposed within the housing and forming a chamber and a bulb. A sequencing means disposed within the chamber that controls the axial motion of the valve member in response to application of fluid pressure at the inlet such that the motion of valve member alternates between an open free flowing state and a closed restricted flow state. Housing and valve member cooperate in the open position to provide an annular flow path that does not require the fluid flow direction to change by more than 45 degrees while flowing from inlet to outlet. Housing and valve member bulb cooperate in the closed position to form a circumferential seal to restrict the fluid flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Applicant: AEROMASTER INNOVATIONS INC.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Justin Spitzer
  • Patent number: 7735509
    Abstract: A distribution valve monitor to monitor the operation of a distribution valve of the type having an inlet and a plurality of outlets, which couples the outlets to the inlet according to a desired fluid distribution pattern comprises a plurality of non-contact sensors disposed at spaced locations about the distribution valve to sense activation of the valve to different operating conditions. A controller communicates with the sensors and records data representing the operation of the valve. The recorded data is examined to detect improper operation of the distribution valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventors: Iain A. F. Galloway, Kelly A. Galloway
  • Patent number: 7677268
    Abstract: A fluid distribution system for controlling the operation of a swimming pool cleaning device includes a housing having an inlet for receiving a supply of pressurized fluid, a plurality of outlet openings and a valve chamber between the inlet and outlet openings. The housing has at least one compound cylinder having two portions with different bore diameters for slideably accommodating therein a mating stepped piston. Each portion of the compound cylinder fluidly communicates with pressurized water in the valve chamber via associated fluid pathways. The larger cylinder is vented by a relief valve actuated by a fluid driven cam that periodically opens and closes the relief valve. When the relief valve is closed, the pressure within the large cylinder pushes the piston to a first position which effects the opened/closed status of a port, e.g., allowing one of the outlets to communicate with the pressurized water in the valve chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Griffin, G. Frank Dye, Eric C. Fleischer, Dennis Willis, David Hardy
  • Publication number: 20090283147
    Abstract: An automate fluid flow control system includes a valve member for being sealedly disposed within a fluid chamber to seal a flow of fluid flowing from a fluid inlet to a fluid outlet, a relief valve having a fluid passage extended along the valve member for communicating the fluid chamber with the fluid outlet and including a valve stopper sitting on a top opening of the fluid passage to sealedly close the fluid passage, and a powering assembly including an actuator to move the relief valve between a closed position that the valve stopper is sealedly retained to close the fluid passage and an opened position that the actuator drives the valve stopper to unseal the fluid passage for releasing a pressure within the water chamber to allow the fluid passing to the fluid outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Jorge Maercovich, Leo Maercovich
  • Patent number: 7501056
    Abstract: An automatic pool cleaner configured to be powered by a supplied positive pressure water flow including an improved propulsion subsystem for propelling the cleaner body through a swimming pool along a substantially random travel path. The subsystem includes a hydraulic valve actuator configured to use water pressure to switch a valve element mounted for reciprocal linear movement from a default state (e.g., redirect travel state) to an active state (e.g., forward travel state) and to then restore the valve element to the default state. The water pressure for controlling the actuator is selectively supplied by a direction controller which responds to regular periodic occurrences and/or irregularly occurring events such as the interruption of cleaner body motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Henkin-Laby, LLC
    Inventors: Melvyn L. Henkin, Jordan M. Laby
  • Patent number: 7464724
    Abstract: A valve assembly, includes a first lumen; a second lumen providing fluid communication between a plurality of points in said first lumen; and a ball and spring assembly sealingly disposed in said first lumen between said plurality of points, wherein said spring exerts a force on said ball to seal said first lumen; wherein said valve assembly is configured to oscillate a pressure of a fluid passing through said valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Pearl Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey W. Carter, Kelly H. McCloy, Steven Tyler
  • Publication number: 20080302987
    Abstract: An irrigation shutoff device (1) that is operational with and fluidly connected to a sprinkler (44) or irrigation valve (37) wherein the irrigation shutoff device (1) has a propeller (10), a coil (11), a timing rod (5) and a timing bar (4) located within a housing (26) and at least one switch (12 and 13). The propeller (10) and coil (11) are located on a first end (47) of the timing rod (5) and a dial adjustment timer (6) is located on a second opposite end (48) of the timing rod (5). The timing rod (5) extends through the timing bar (4) and the at least one switch (12 and 13) is located a predetermined distance between the first and second ends (47 and 48) of the timing rod (5). A malfunction indicator (25) provides a visual cue as to when the irrigation shutoff device (1) has been activated, thereby requiring a user to repair the sprinkler system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Inventor: Sylvain C. Corriveau
  • Patent number: 7458523
    Abstract: A foam-dispensing faucet for dispensing a quantity of foam soap and separately dispensing a flow of water according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a faucet body having a dispensing opening, water supply means integrated into the faucet body for delivering water to the foam-dispensing faucet, liquid soap means integrated into the faucet body for delivering liquid soap to the foam-dispensing faucet, air supply means integrated into the faucet body for delivering air to the foam-dispensing faucet, the interior of the faucet body being configured for processing liquid soap from the liquid soap means and air from the air supply means into a foam soap, and control means for timing and sequencing the dispensing of water and foam soap from the foam-dispensing faucet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: William J. Hyslop
  • Patent number: 7373949
    Abstract: A control valve for a water treatment system which includes a turbine (110) rotatably mounted within a water receiving chamber. A nozzle assembly (122) defines first and second fluid paths, one of the flow paths may include a fluid pressure response valve element (320) for controlling fluid flow along the one path. The system also comprises a nozzle assembly (122?) defining a throat (302?) extending from an inlet and terminating in a arcuate outlet conforming to the periphery of the turbine. A plurality of spaced apart and angled vanes (404) are disposed in the throat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Kinetico Incorporated
    Inventor: Stuart Park
  • Patent number: 7337803
    Abstract: Devices for cleaning vessels, especially swimming pools, are discussed. The devices may include a non-linear flow path in a gap surrounding an in-line valve. This non-linearity permits lengths of concentric pipes forming the gap to be decreased without sacrificing operational performance of the devices. Valves forming parts of the cleaning devices may be diaphragms but shaped, sized, reinforced, or configured differently than existing valves and may have collapsible segments whose interior shape resembles an ellipse in transverse cross-section. Co-molding of diaphragms and pipes may occur, and inner and outer cups may be used to fix relative positions of various components of the devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Zodiac Pool Care Europe
    Inventors: Hendrikus Johannes van der Meijden, Michael Edward Moore, Peter Hugh Harrison, Alexis Adrian Felipe Wadman, Mark J. Bauckman
  • Patent number: 7318448
    Abstract: A swimming pool cleaning device includes a fluid distribution system for controlling its operation. More particularly, the distribution system includes a housing having an inlet for receiving a supply of pressurized fluid, a pair of outlet openings and a valve chamber positioned between the inlet and the outlet openings. A piston, including a valve member, is movably mounted in the housing so as to be movable between a first position, in which the valve member closes one of the outlet openings so as to divert pressurized fluid to the other one of the outlet openings, and a second position, in which the valve member closes the other one of the outlet openings so as to divert pressurized fluid to the one of the outlet openings. A valve is provided for controlling the movement of the piston between the first and second positions. The piston has a passage extending therethrough so as to permit flow of pressurized fluid from the valve chamber to the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignees: H-Tech, Inc., Henkin-Laby, LLC
    Inventors: Eric C. Fleischer, Donald R. Davidson, Bernhard Schaub, Melvyn L. Henkin, Jordan M. Laby
  • Patent number: 7252029
    Abstract: A hydraulic tilting device for tilting the cab of a vehicle between a driving position, in which the vehicle can be driven normally, and a tilted position, in which, for example, maintenance can be carried out on a vehicle engine positioned beneath the cab. The tilting device comprises a double-acting tilting cylinder having a first and a second connection, a reservoir for hydraulic fluid and a pump having a single pumping direction, which pump has a suction port which is in communication with the reservoir and a single delivery port for delivering pressurized hydraulic fluid. The tilting device has a valve, in inlet passage of which is connected to there delivery port of the pump, which valve has an actuable shut-off member, so that in a first position thereof the delivery port is connected to the first connection of the tilting cylinder and in the second position thereof the delivery port is connected to the second connection of the tilting cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Actuant Corporation
    Inventor: Tone Oudelaar
  • Patent number: 7210498
    Abstract: A geared mechanical device designed to limit a finite amount of water per flush to a tank reservoir of the common household toilet, providing positive shutoff of flow and anti-siphon back flow prevention. The toilet is flushed, the actuator lever opens the flo-control valve stopper by means of linkage to the flush lever. The water enters the back flow chamber into the primary valve chamber thence to the flow control chamber, and on to the float valve into the toilet tank for fill up. Force of the water rotates the drive impeller gearably linked to the hold release mechanism. On release the flo-control valve stopper closes. The back flow prevention chamber allows the water to pass in the direction of flow and reseats itself when the flow has stopped or if water pressure is lost at any time eliminating a need for a anti-siphon tube. A replenish tube restores water level to the bowl. A water delivery chamber may be affixed to the flo-control in place of the float valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Inventor: John Henry Arigoni
  • Patent number: 7093611
    Abstract: A water feeder controller for a boiler monitors a low water cutoff sensor in a boiler and uses a feed timer to feed water to the boiler for a predetermined feed period of time. The feed timer brings the water level in the boiler well above the low water cutoff sensor. The feed timer supplies water to the boiler only if the low water cutoff sensor continues to indicate a low water level for a delay period of time measured by a delay timer. A resettable display indicates the quantity of water supplied by the water feeder to the boiler based on a feed counter incremented during water feeding. A manual feed button allows water to be manually fed to the boiler. The quantity of water manually supplied to the boiler is also shown on the display. The feed timer and delay timer are preferably implemented in software in a microcontroller in the water feeder controller. A lockout loop in the software prevents overfeeding of water to the boiler in the event of a failure of the low water cutoff sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: C. Cowles & Company
    Inventors: Christopher L Murray, Richard A Lyons
  • Patent number: 7080424
    Abstract: The invention concerns a swimming pool cleaner utilizing the induced flow to a filter plant pump to cause interrupted movement while cleaning the surface over which it operates. The cleaner incorporates a valve with a hollow domed perforated closure member operating in a body with the valve mounted on a stem carrying a rolling diaphragm or a piston subjected intermittently and automatically to the pressure induced by the filter plant pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Corrupipe CC
    Inventors: Dieter H F Kallenbach, Manfred Stahle
  • Patent number: 6805145
    Abstract: A method and a regulating valve for maintaining a fluid pressure within a defined volume (3), and simultaneous registering of discharge of fluid from the volume as a result of leakage or consumption. The fluid is supplied from a pressure regulating valve (20) provided with a means (5-7, 22-26) which opens for the supply of fluid to the volume (3) when the pressure therein has sunk below a first value (P1), and which shuts off the fluid supply when the pressure in the volume (3) has achieved a preset second value (P2) which is substantially higher than the first value (P1). Thus, after each opening of the regulating valve (20) there occurs a distinct pressure increase at the valve outlet. This pressure increase is registered as a pressure pulse, and the frequency of delivered pressure pulses is monitored and utilised as a measure of occurring leakage and/or consumption of the supplied fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Framo Engineering AS
    Inventor: Nils T. Ottestad
  • Patent number: 6796273
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a water director for distributing a surge or flow of water to one or more of a plurality of output ports, which can vary in shape, size, and number, typically for use in marine and fresh water aquariums. Water pumped through a conduit into the hermetically sealed Switching Current Water Director (SCWD), powers an internally mounted gear driven fluid motor, which turns a rotational valve, alternately opening and closing a plurality of water outlet ports. When mounted externally to an aquarium, proper placement of output nozzles, which are connected to a water conduit attached to the various SCWD outlet ports, provides the desired opposing, or switching back and fourth currents. Depending on the inlet and outlet port configuration, the SCWD can be adapted to suit many applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Inventor: Paul Michael Muscarella