Abstract: A waterway switching mechanism in a shower includes a fixed portion and a rotating block connected to a fixed portion. The fixed portion has a plurality of switching positions each with a sealing portion that can move relative to the fixed portion in the first direction. The waterway switching is controlled through the activity of the sealing portion. The outside wall is provided with a pushing portion. The sealing portions are circumferentially spaced apart and surround outside of the rotating block. Each sealing portion is provided with a fitting portion capable of cooperating with the pushing portion, when the rotating block rotates the pushing portion follows the rotating block and move in a circumferential direction, and the fitting portion is driven to move in the first direction by a circumferential movement of the pushing portion, and the first direction intersects with vertical plane of the vertical swivel axis of rotation.

Abstract: A dispenser for mixing and dispensing a liquid chemical concentrate with a diluent from a container. The dispenser includes two slidable eductors one of which is also rotatable. Both a high and low flow rate can be obtained with simultaneous adjustment of concentration of the chemical concentrate. The dispenser has a high degree of accuracy of the amount of dilution of the chemical concentrate as well as positive positioning of the high and low flow rate.

Abstract: A method of controlling a plurality of downhole tools in a wellbore, using first and second codes transmitted by hydraulic line to first address and then actuate the desired tool. A dedicated line is provided for terminating all actuated tools.

Abstract: A multi-way valve includes an outer casing provided with an internal cavity, at least one input to the cavity, at least one output from the cavity, the at least one input having sealing means, and an actuator adapted to cause the opening of the sealing means of the inputs. A cross-section of the actuator is smaller than a cross-section of the inner cavity.

Abstract: A shut-off valve that has a closure orifice, a closure member to open and close a gas passage through the shut-off valve, an electromagnetic actuator including a movable assembly attached to the closure member, the closure member, and an electromagnetic filed generator magnetically associated with the movable assembly. The shut-off valve also includes a manual actuator for acting on the movable assembly, the manual actuator comprising an open position in which it is decoupled from the movable assembly, the electromagnetic actuator thus being able to act on the closure member to cause its closure.

Abstract: A method of controlling the annular pressure in a well during a well construction operation. The operation comprises pumping a fluid down a tubing located within the well and extracting the fluid that flows back through an annulus within said well and surrounding the tubing. The method comprises defining a set pressure pref, determining a desired extraction flow rate qc of fluid from said annulus in dependence upon the set pressure pref and a pumped flow rate into the annulus, and configuring an extraction path to achieve said desired extraction flow rate.

Abstract: A valve assembly includes a body structure having a proximal inlet tube and a distal outlet tube separated by a valve cylinder portion, a flow control valve situated in the valve cylinder portion, the flow control valve including a valve plug and an actuator shaft, and an actuation control pivotally mounted to the body structure, wherein rotational movement of the actuation control exerts an axial force against the actuator shaft to move the valve plug through the valve cylinder portion and open fluid communication between the proximal inlet tube and the distal outlet tube. A bead seating system includes means for establishing fluid communication between a container of pressurized fluid and a valve assembly, means for transferring rotational movement of a actuation control pivotally mounted on the valve assembly into an axial force, means for establishing fluid communication between the container and a bead seating tool via the valve assembly.

Abstract: An expansion valve and an air conditioner for vehicles having the same, the expansion valve comprising a main body having an inflow channel, first and second discharge channels and first and second orifices to expand refrigerant branched from the inflow channel to the first and second discharge channels; first and second valves to control flow rates of refrigerant passing through the first and second orifices by controlling the degree of opening of the first and second orifices respectively; and a shaft slidably mounted inside the main body for varying positions of the first and second valves simultaneously so that the first and second orifices are opened or closed at the same time by the movement of the shaft.

Abstract: There are provided a latch valve consuming less power, having a simpler structure, and guaranteeing reliable valve operation, there is provided a flow control device comprising a plurality of latch valves connected in series, and the second to the last latch valves, among the latch valves connected in series, include an additional outflow path constantly communicating with a space part between a support body and a plunger, respectively, to allow water from an inlet to constantly flow out to the additional outflow paths.

Abstract: A coolant reservoir and associated multi-functional unit for a thermal sub-system of a fuel cell system. The coolant reservoir includes a flame arrester positioned in a gas region of the reservoir. The multi-functional unit includes a first pressure relief valve that automatically opens if the pressure within the gas region goes above a first predetermined pressure. The multi-functional unit may also include a second pressure release valve that quickly releases pressure in the coolant reservoir if the pressure within the gas region goes above a second higher predetermined pressure. The multi-functional unit also includes an air-line and a check valve for allowing ambient air to enter the gas region if the pressure within the gas region falls below ambient pressure. The multi-functional unit also includes a cooling fluid fill line having plumbing that causes the coolant reservoir to vent prior to a cooling fluid cap being removed.

Abstract: A microfluidic platform is disclosed that uses obstacles placed at particular location(s) within the channel cross-section to turn and stretch fluid. The asymmetric flow behavior upstream and downstream of the obstacle(s) due to fluid inertia manifests itself as a total deformation of the topology of streamlines that effectively creates a tunable net secondary flow. The system and methods passively creates strong secondary flows at moderate to high flow rates in microchannels. These flows can be accurately controlled by the numbers and particular geometric placement of the obstacle(s) within the channel.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for actuating a plurality of pneumatic valves to positively isolate one or more pieces of equipment. A manual valve can be disposed on a supply conduit that fluidly couples each of the pneumatic valves to a fluid supply source. To place the pneumatic valves in a safe position, the manual valve can be closed, which disrupts a flow of fluid from the source. Closing the manual valve can also open a drain conduit that allows the supply conduit to be depressurized.

Abstract: A C1 switching valve 80 establishes a first supply state, in which a C1 solenoid pressure Pslc1 can be supplied to a clutch C1, when a line pressure PL is supplied as a holding pressure, and when a modulator pressure Pmod is supplied as a holding pressure and a B1 solenoid pressure Pslb1 is not supplied. The C1 switching valve 80 establishes a second supply state, in which the line pressure PL can be supplied to the clutch C1, when the modulator pressure Pmod is supplied as a holding pressure and the B1 solenoid pressure Pslb1 is supplied. The C1 switching valve 80 is supplied with the modulator pressure Pmod as a holding pressure when an abnormality occurs in supply of the C1 solenoid pressure Pslc1.

Abstract: The present invention is an air evacuation apparatus that prevents the accumulation of air inside a swimming pool or spa filter by allowing any air to be removed from inside the filter every time the swimming pool pump is turned on. By allowing air to be removed from the filter, the present invention prevents the build-up of dangerous levels of potential energy caused by compressed air inside the filter that can lead to the violent separation of the filter. More important, the air evacuation apparatus of the present invention allows air to be safely and automatically removed from inside of the filter without interfering with the functionality of the filter.

Abstract: In a soft start device for pneumatic systems comprising a primary inlet where compressed air can be supplied at primary pressure, wherein the primary inlet is, via a valve circuit, connected to at least one secondary outlet which can be coupled to a load and where compressed air can be discharged at secondary pressure, the secondary pressure being lower than or equal to the primary pressure, wherein a main valve is installed between the primary inlet and the secondary outlet, a restrictor device being installed in the bypass, wherein the main valve and the restrictor device together with further directional valves of the valve circuit are interconnected such and the valve circuit can be switched into a standard switching position for venting such that the secondary outlet is vented, the valves of the valve circuit are interconnected such that several further switching positions for venting are possible.

Abstract: Methods and devices using a co-radial arrangement of serial siphon structures composed of siphon valves each separated by a capillary valve to save radial space in a fluidic system. Such serial siphon valves allow to sequentially distribute liquids in a fluidic system upon application of successive centripetal accelerations and decelerations applied to a rotary platform.

Abstract: The present invention enlarges the working pressure flowing into the working chamber and improves the response ability of the valve controlling the fluid using a compact solenoid portion.

Abstract: Self-cleaning apparatus and methods are disclosed for handling viscous fluids, such as thick solid-liquid slurries of lignocellulosic biomass and its components, under high pressure, using an array of retractable valves.

Abstract: A chemical injection line connector includes first and second couplings configured to automatically seal shut when the members are disengaged. A method for blocking contamination or pressure transfer of chemical injection lines includes securing first and second couplings to corresponding ends of a chemical injection line and automatically sealing the couplings shut when the couplings are disengaged.

Abstract: Methods and valve arrangements for controlling the flow of pressurized air from a tractor to a trailer reservoir and to a trailer spring brake chamber. In one exemplary embodiment, pressurized air from a tractor is supplied from a tractor to the trailer reservoir and to the trailer spring brake in different filling modes based on a user input. In another exemplary embodiment, pressurized service air is used to charge or partially charge the trailer reservoir.

Abstract: The presented valve (1) is based on two axially adjustable sleeve-shaped valve seat rings (14, 36) that are associated with locking arrangements in the form of annular armature plates (22, 35) and associate holding coils (24, 36). The valve closure member (39) can be variably adjusted via a position adjustment drive. Said valve closure member has a double function. On the one hand, it acts to move the valve seat rings (14, 26) into locking position and, on the other hand, it acts to control the gas flow.

Abstract: An air conditioning system of the present invention for an automotive vehicle includes a housing having at least two sections connected by two side by side air passage. A blower device of the air conditioning system discharges air into the housing. An evaporator is disposed in one of the sections for taking heat from the air discharged from the blower device to produce cool air. A heater is disposed in the other section positioned downstream of the evaporator for adding heat to the cool air to produce warm air. First and second sliding valve plates mechanically communicating with a driving mechanism of the present invention are supported by the housing for selectively closing the two side by side air passages thereby regulating air flow of cool and warm air.

Abstract: An accumulator having an internal valve opened by applying air pressure to a diaphragm with a small solenoid to apply air to the diaphragm where the air is supplied from a pilot air supply. When the internal valve operated by the diaphragm opens, it snaps to a fully open position thereby opening the valve and uncovering a passageway leading to a filter for cleaning. The passageway is sufficiently wide that the resulting flow of air through the passageway is so explosive that air pressure on the filter is distributed over the surface area of the filter for a brief moment, blowing the dust on the filter free.

Abstract: An improved sandwich-type valve made according to this invention has two seals that move and seal independent of one another. The first seal is located on the upper surface of the valve member or disc and moves with the valve disc toward and away from the upper plate in response to fluid pressure. The second seal is a floating seal that is received by a seat of the lower plate portion of the valve body. The second seal moves toward and away from the lower plate in response to fluid pressure. A bleed port may be provided in the spacer flange between the first and second seal.

Abstract: A control stop for a flush valve for a urinal or toilet fixture includes a housing defining a flow chamber divided by a valve seat into inlet and outlet sections. A valve structure is biased toward the valve seat by a spring applying a valve closing spring force. The housing is sealed by a diaphragm, and the diaphragm covers the movable valve structure, isolating it from water flowing through the housing. The diaphragm does not impede valve structure movement, and the closing spring force establishes a threshold water supply pressure for opening the control stop during increasing pressure following a no or low supply pressure condition. A plurality of control stops may supply a bank of flush valves and fixtures, and open in a cascading sequence during increasing pressure as a result of having springs with different closing spring forces.

Abstract: A valve assembly includes a valve housing defining a service passage, a first bore in fluid communication with the service passage, a first passage, a second bore in communication with the service passage and a second passage. The first bore has an inlet portion, a first service portion in communication with the service passage, and a first load holding portion. The first passage is in communication with the first load holding portion and the service passage. The second bore has a return portion, a second service portion in fluid communication with the first service passage, and a second load holding portion. The second passage is in selective communication with the second load holding portion of the second bore and the return passage. A valve is disposed in the second passage. The valve allows fluid to flow only in a direction from the second load holding portion to the return passage.

Abstract: Method and device to be used for resetting a pressure in a low pressure recipient connected to a subsea pressure control device. The device includes the low pressure recipient configured to have first and second chambers separated by a first piston; a reset recipient configured to have third and fourth chambers separated by a piston assembly, and the piston assembly includes a second piston having first and second extension elements that extend along a direction of movement of the piston assembly. The third chamber has an inlet configured to allow the hydraulic liquid to enter the third chamber and an outlet configured to allow the hydraulic liquid to exit the third chamber, and the fourth chamber has an inlet configured to allow the hydraulic liquid to enter the fourth chamber and an outlet configured to allow the hydraulic liquid to exit the fourth chamber.

Abstract: A soft start device for compressed air systems comprises a primary inlet at which compressed air at a primary pressure may be supplied, the primary inlet being connected with a secondary outlet able to be coupled with a load, by a valve circuit, at which compressed air is taken at the secondary pressure lower than or equal to the primary pressure, a principal valve placed between the primary and secondary outlet, said principal valve being able to be shunted by a bypass, a choke device being placed in the bypass, the principal valve and the choke device together with further valves of the valve circuit being connected together in a circuit and the valve circuit placed in a standard venting switching setting that the secondary outlet is vented.

Abstract: A routing system for shared conduits used in industrial applications is sensitive to material types and material flow histories to allow compatible materials to flow through shared conduits without cleaning while preventing contamination of materials in those shared conduits.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for collecting and treating blood component. An apparatus and methods for improvement of an extracorporeal photopheresis treatment is described. A cassette having flexible tubes inside its housing and on the bottom surface outside the cassette housing for ease of manufacturing is operated with a centrifuge bowl having an inlet and two outlets, pressure domes for measuring pressures in tubes, an improved irradiation plate, and a dual chamber bag in an extracorporeal photopheresis treatment.

Abstract: An article includes a microfluidic channel for moving fluid therethrough and at least one microfluidic actuator coupled to the microfluidic channel. The microfluidic actuator includes a deformable substance configured to enter the microfluidic channel to control fluid flow through the microfluidic channel. A method includes applying pressure to a deformable substance of a microfluidic actuator coupled to a microfluidic channel, such that the deformable substance of the microfluidic actuator enters the microfluidic channel. Another method includes inserting a needle into a microfluidic channel, applying pressure to a deformable substance of a microfluidic actuator coupled to the microfluidic channel, such that the deformable substance of the microfluidic actuator enters the microfluidic channel to form a seal around the needle, and injecting or extracting a fluid through the needle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for regulating a pressure in a hydraulic system for operating at least one actuator in a subsea installation, having a fluid supply line (102) connected to a source of pressurized fluid (101) at a remote location delivering fluid at a constant pressure to the subsea installation, comprising first and second control valves (103, 105) controlled by an electronic control unit (107), and at least one pressure sensor (106) and an accumulator (104) arranged between the first and second control valve (103, 105), where the pressure in the fluid supply line (102?) to the actuator is regulated by regulating the pressure in the accumulator (104) by adding fluid from the source of pressurized fluid (101) through the first control valve (103) if the pressure is too low or releasing pressure through the second control valve (105) to a fluid return line (120) if the pressure is too high and thereby establishing the desired pressure for operating the actuator.

Abstract: A hydraulic control circuit for a transmission includes a plurality of solenoids and valves in fluid communication with a plurality of actuators. The actuators are operable to actuate a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Selective activation of the solenoids allows for a pressurized fluid flow to activate at least one of the actuators in order to shift the transmission into a desired gear ratio.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fuel tank system capable of suppressing stagnation of fuel between check valves arranged in a fuel filling path. The fuel tank system has the fuel filling path which supplies fuel to a fuel tank through a filling port, and at least two check valves arranged in series in the fuel filling pat. The valve opening pressure of one check valve arranged on the fuel tank side is set to be smaller than that of the other check valve arranged on the filling port side.

Abstract: A valve assembly comprises two valves and a single solenoid actuator with only one magnetizing coil that controls both valves. The corresponding magnetic circuit comprises a yoke with only two pole pieces. The valves are arranged concentric to one another. The valve closing element of the outer valve is connected to an armature by means of a sleeve. The cup thus formed receives the armature that is connected to the valve closing element of the inner valve. The pole piece and the armature form a transmission air gap through which the sleeve extends. A coupling air gap is formed between the armatures. The armature and the pole piece form a working air gap. The valves are opened collectively and are able to close independently of one another when the coil is rendered currentless.

Abstract: A multi-drop flow control valve system having a plurality of hydraulically actuated flow control valve, each valve set in an initial operating position. The flow control valves are connected to a hydraulic control line in sequence, wherein the second flow control valve is below the first flow control valve and so on. Wherein a first hydraulic pressure in the control line will operate at least the first flow control valve to an actuated position and a second hydraulic pressure greater than the first hydraulic pressure will operate at least the first and second flow control valves to actuated positions. It may be desired for each of the control valves to be biased in the initial position when the hydraulic pressure is less than a base pressure.

Abstract: A female hydraulic coupling member is disclosed which comprises a first flow port; a second flow port; a third flow port in fluid communication with both the first flow port and the second flow port; a first poppet valve for opening and closing the first flow port; and a second poppet valve for opening and closing the second flow port, the second poppet valve being connected to the first poppet valve such that the second poppet valve moves to the closed position when the first poppet valve is open and moves to the open position when the first poppet valve is closed.

Abstract: A flow control device includes an opening part through which an upstream side of a fluid flow passage is in communication with a downstream side of the fluid flow passage. A valve element closes the opening part and includes a large flow rate controlling valve element capable of adjusting an opening degree of the opening part, a sealing member provided with a valve hole having an open area smaller than the opening part and formed to be capable of being brought into tight contact with a peripheral wall part of the opening part and a small flow rate controlling valve element capable of adjusting an opening degree of the valve hole. A valve drive device rotates to drive the valve element in a closed direction for closing the opening part or in an opened direction for opening the opening part.

Abstract: A solenoid fuel drain valve (2) comprising a valve body (4), having a drain hole (20) and an air inlet opening (22), a solenoid coil (10) and a piston, the drain hole (20) having a drain inlet (20) and a drain outlet (15); and the piston being arranged within the valve body (4) to be moveable between a closed condition, wherein the drain hole (20) and the air inlet opening (22) are sealed, and an open condition, wherein the drain hole (20) and the air inlet opening (22) are open, movement of the piston being controlled by the solenoid (10).

Abstract: A member that is driven by a hydraulic actuator tends oscillate when fluid flow to the hydraulic actuator is terminated. A pressure relief device reduces that oscillation by connecting first and second first relief valves to the hydraulic actuator. The first relief valve provides a relatively large first relief passage as long as pressure in the hydraulic actuator remains above a threshold. A second relief valve opens a second relief passage at substantially the same threshold pressure and thereafter remains open as long as the pressure remains above another lower threshold. A timer causes the second relief valve to close a given interval of time, if the pressure does not drop below the other lower threshold.

Abstract: A spigot valve, which on opening and closing of the spigot valve, selectively moves a plunger member to selectively open and close a closure valve at the outlet of a container to which a spigot valve is connected.

Abstract: A valve (1) for supplying fuel gas to a gas appliance comprises a valve housing (2) having a valve chamber (3) extending therethrough. Fuel gas is supplied through an inlet port (5) to the valve chamber (3) and from main and secondary outlet ports (6,7) to a burner and a pilot light jet, respectively, of the gas appliance. A primary valving member (35) and a secondary valving member (36) co-operate with a primary valve seat (15) and a secondary valve seat (20), respectively, for isolating the main and secondary outlet ports (6,7) from the inlet port (5). A main carrier member (30) carries the primary valving member (35) and is magnetically coupled to a first secondary carrier member (31) which is driven by a stepper motor (38). A second secondary carrier member (32) is magnetically coupled to the main carrier member (30) for carrying the secondary valving member (36).

Abstract: A temperature and pressure sensitive valve is disclosed herein. The valve has a valve piston for regulating flow through the valve, a valve piston guide for directing movement of the piston, the piston guide having one or more passages there through, a thermal element for enabling movement of said piston, and an elongated housing having an anterior and posterior end and an interior wall able to house said piston, guide and thermal element. The housing further has two or more passages able to aid the piston in regulating flow, with at least one of the passages placed towards said anterior end of the housing, and at least one of the passages placed towards said posterior end of the housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to an injector for an injection system for injecting highly pressurized fuel into the combustion chambers of internal combustion engines. An inlet from the high-pressure accumulation chamber feeds into a control chamber that can be connected to the nozzle inlet of the injection nozzle by means of a sealing seat that can be opened. In order to close the leakage oil outlet when the inlet line from the high-pressure accumulation chamber is opened, a sealing surface covers outlet-side control edges on the valve housing.

Abstract: A fluid flow proportioning device including spool type valve elements (12,14,16) opposite end portions of which reciprocate in oppositely disposed and spaced apart valve block halves (100,102). So that the fluids being proportioned can never mix within the device despite the spool portions being devoid of sealing element within the cylindrical bores (13,15,17) in which they are slideable, central portions (21) of the valve elements are of smaller diameter than the diameters of the cylindrical bores (13,15,17) in which the valve elements are located, and resilient seals (105) encircle the portions (21) where they extend outwards from the valve block halves.

Abstract: A valve (1) for supplying fuel gas to a gas appliance comprises a valve housing (2) having a valve chamber (3) extending therethrough. Fuel gas is supplied through an inlet port (5) to the valve chamber (3) and from main and secondary outlet ports (6,7) to a burner and a pilot light jet, respectively, of the gas appliance. A primary valving member (35) and a secondary valving member (36) co-operate with a primary valve seat (15) and a secondary valve seat (20), respectively, for isolating the main and secondary outlet ports (6,7) from the inlet port (5). A main carrier member (30) carries the primary valving member (35) and is magnetically coupled to a first secondary carrier member (31) which is driven by a stepper motor (38). A second secondary carrier member (32) is magnetically coupled to the main carrier member (30) for carrying the secondary valving member (36).

Abstract: A switch device for a gas burner includes a body engaged with a housing. The body defines an axial hole for rotatably receiving a driven shaft which has a first end secured in a rotation knob and a second end engaged with a barrel which can be rotated by the driven shaft. The barrel is screwed in the housing which is connected to a primary flame nozzle. When the rotation knob is pressed, the valve rod mounted in the barrel is forced by driven shaft to move linearly so as to open the valve hole directed toward the auxiliary flame. When the rotation knob is rotated, the passage directed toward the primary flame nozzle is opened.

Abstract: A fuel injector for use in a internal combustion engine is disclosed. The fuel injector includes a body having a discharge end and a longitudinal axis extending therethrough, and an electromagnetic coil located within the body. The fuel injector further includes a fuel metering valve operable between an open position and a closed position and an air metering valve operable between an open position and a closed position. The fuel injector also includes a valve seat located within the body proximate to the discharge end and includes an orifice extending therethrough along the longitudinal axis. A needle is reciprocally mounted along the longitudinal axis between an open position and a closed position. The needle has an upstream end, a downstream end, and a needle channel extending therethrough along the longitudinal axis. The needle engages the valve seat in the closed position. A guide is disposed along the longitudinal axis such that the upstream end of the needle is reciprocable within the guide.

Abstract: A fluid flow proportioning device including spool type valve elements (12,14,16) opposite end portions of which reciprocate in oppositely disposed and spaced apart valve block halves (100,102).

Abstract: A valve, for example a tapered plug valve, having two obturators each rotatable between open and closed positions. The angle between the rotational axes is at least about 90° and may be 180°. The handles used to rotate the obturators are preferably on the same side of the valve.