Abstract: An assembly for reducing excess piping pressure in a fluid distribution system. The assembly includes a fluid regulator including a body defining an inlet, an outlet, and a fluid passageway between the inlet and the outlet, a first control element movable relative to a valve seat in the fluid passageway to control fluid flow therethrough, a valve stem coupled to the first control element, and an actuator assembly operatively coupled to the valve stem to control a position of the first control element. The assembly also includes a solenoid valve coupled to the fluid regulator at a position upstream of the outlet, the solenoid valve adapted to receive a control signal indicative of zero demand downstream of the fluid regulator, and having a second control element that is movable, responsive to the control signal, from a first position to a second position to reduce fluid flowing through the fluid passageway.

Abstract: A burner head and cap combination provides gas burner for use with gas appliances. At least one magnet is utilized to assist in retaining the burner cap to the burner head. Mobile appliances can particularly benefit from such a construction, such as in recreational vehicles and even stationary uses may find such a construction advantageous.

Abstract: The invention relates to a gas regulating unit with a valve basic body (11) which forms at least one gas inlet chamber and one gas outlet chamber, with a safety valve and with a main gas valve, wherein the safety valve and the main gas valve either open or close a gas flow from the gas inlet chamber into the gas outlet chamber.

Abstract: Examples of automatic valve shutoff systems are described which may include an actuation device including an actuator and a valve attachment portion. The valve attachment portion may be configured for attachment with an existing valve in a fluid or compressible gas supply line. The system may further include a controller coupled to the actuation device, wherein the controller is configured to initiate a valve shutoff process in response to a wireless signal. Wake-up circuitry may be coupled to the controller and configured to monitor the supply line for vibrations and activate the controller in response to the vibrations.

Abstract: A system or apparatus that in one implementation includes an electromagnetic valve having an actuator rod with a first coil and a second coil positioned at different longitudinal locations on the actuator rod and being situated electrically parallel to one another in an electrical circuit. The electromagnetic valve is constructed to induce a first voltage in the second coil when the electromagnetic valve is in the open position and to induce in the second coil a second voltage lower than the first voltage when the electromagnetic valve is in the closed position. A switch changeable between a first position and a second position is located in the electrical circuit. When the switch is in the first position the electrical circuit is configured to allow current from a power source to be delivered to the second coil. When the switch is in the second position the electrical circuit is configured to not allow current from a power source to be delivered to the second coil.

Abstract: A gas regulator fitting is to be devised that prevents distortions of the temperature value to be regulated caused by ambient temperature fluctuations. Retrofitting without intervention into the gas-conducting space is also to be made possible. To that end, one or more bimetal discs (17) are arranged outside the gas-conducting space of the gas regulator fitting, between an operating element (18) for setting the required temperature and a longitudinally movable ram (8) whose position can be altered by means of metal bellows (9) which are connected to a temperature sensor (11) by a capillary line (10). The ram (8) protruding into the gas-conducting space activates a switch which controls a valve for regulating the gas stream to the main burner. The bimetal discs (17) are arranged in such a manner that their overall height, which is altered in the direction of movement of the ram (8) depending on the ambient temperature, can influence the position of the metal bellows (9).

Abstract: A device for controlling a combustible gas supply to a burner is provided, which includes first and second servovalves, having respective valve seats associated with a corresponding shut-off mechanism, which include respective first and second control solenoid valves with an electromagnetic operating device that controls the opening/closing of the corresponding servovalve. The solenoid valves act to indirectly control the corresponding servovalve's respective shut-off mechanism. The pipes of the control are in communication with the main pipe through an auxiliary bleed pipe. A pilot pipe is branched from the auxiliary pipe to supply a pilot burner, and a thermoelectric magnetic unit with a knob is provided on the auxiliary pipe, which allows gas to flow towards the pilot burner when the unit is activated, while simultaneously shutting off the flow of gas towards the servovalve control circuit. The device includes a control mechanism, controlled by the knob, which controls gas flow.

Abstract: A gas valve includes a gas inlet in fluid communication with a first chamber, a second chamber in selective fluid communication with the first chamber, a gas outlet in selective fluid communication with the second chamber, a pilot light outlet in fluid communication with the second chamber, and a bypass channel in fluid communication with the second chamber and in fluid communication with the first chamber. The bypass channel limits bypass gas flow to an amount that is insufficient to ignite a pilot flame at the pilot light outlet when the second channel is in fluid communication with the gas outlet.

Abstract: The method and apparatus provides a controller (which might comprise a microprocessor) that can control gas flow to a pilot burner in fluid communication with a manual pilot valve and an automatic pilot valve. The exemplary embodiments can comprise a selectable input device that can open the manual pilot valve to allow gas flow to the pilot burner. A pilot flame can then heat one or more thermal detection devices in thermal communication with the pilot burner, wherein the one or more thermal detection devices can output a variable voltage potential to the controller. The controller can then open the automatic pilot valve to maintain gas flow to the pilot burner after the manual pilot valve has been closed. In an exemplary embodiment, the only voltage potential used to power the controller is supplied by the one or more thermal detection devices.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device comprising at least one safety shut-off control valve. A safety valve is optionally connected to said safety shut-off control valve, connected in series in the fluid flow path. In the safety shut-off control valve, a sealing valve is returned to a sealing position against a seat by means of a return spring, and is controlled by a linear actuator and a connecting rod for continuous adjustment of the valve opening. The connecting rod comprises two independent segments which are at least partially made from a ferromagnetic material and which are magnetically coupled to a magnetic coupling circuit that is activated by a coil. While electric power is being supplied to the coil, the magnetic field that said coil creates maintains the linking rod segments coupled to one another, such that the linear actuator can control the sealing valve.

Abstract: A device for restoring a rotary member into a defined normal position, with a spatially stationary fixed catch, which predetermines the normal position, and a driver catch, which is coupled to the rotary member and can be moved past the fixed catch, each of which has stop surfaces embodied on each of its opposing sides, and with a clamping spring, which encompasses the catches in a prestressed fashion with two bent spring legs, in order to prevent a rotary play between the clamping spring and the catches in the normal position, and an elastic spring element in at least one leg section of the spring legs extending across the stop surfaces of the catches, which spring element is supported against the associated stop surface with a spring force that is less powerful than the prestressing force of the clamping spring.

Abstract: This invention reveals an improved gas valve with a thermoelectric security device that has a shortened distance from the gas inlet to the front of an appliance, enabling the overall size of the appliance to be smaller than normal for this type of device.

Abstract: A safety device for shutting off the flow of gas to a gas-fired appliance in the presence of flammable vapors. A flammable vapor sensor is inserted in the circuit supplying a solenoid actuated valve with power from a thermocouple. The sensor responds to the presence of a flammable vapor with an increase in resistance. When a critical concentration of flammable vapors is achieved, the voltage drop across the sensor causes the solenoid actuated valve to close.

Abstract: A valve unit for controlling the delivery of a combustible gas through a gas path comprises a first valve seat in the gas path and a first closure means associated with the seat, a first actuator means for the control of the closure means for opening and closing of the valve seat and also motor means for the operating control of the first actuator means. The unit further comprises a second electromagnetic actuator means interposed between the closure means and the first actuator means to urge the closure means so as to close the valve seat, independently of the operating position of the first actuator means, when a predetermined condition occurs which requires the interception of the valve seat.

Abstract: A gas leak and cut-off device is provided including a gas-powered hot water heater having a cylindrical configuration with a circular top face, a circular bottom face, and a cylindrical periphery formed therebetween. The bottom face has a plurality of stanchions coupled thereto and extending downwardly for engaging a recipient surface. A gas input pipe is provided having a first end connected to a gas supply and a second end connected to the periphery of the hot water heater for supplying gas thereto to heat water. A plurality of monitors are each mounted in spaced relationship on the recipient surface with the outboard ends in line with the periphery of the water heater. Each monitor is adapted for generating an activation signal only during the detection of fluid.

Abstract: In this combustion gas control device, an electromechanical control is provided for automatically controlling the supply of the gas to the pilot burner when it is being ignited and subsequently to the main burner. The device has a main chamber, a pilot chamber and an outlet chamber. A spring-biassed valve is provided between the main chamber and the pilot chamber to close communication between the main chamber and pilot and outlet chambers. The spring-biassed valve is opened when a solenoid is actuated to allow gas from the main chamber to flow into the pilot chamber to the pilot outlet for lighting the pilot light. A diaphragm cover is provided between the pilot chamber and outlet chamber while the pilot is lighted to prevent gas from entering the outlet chamber.

Abstract: An electromechanical actuator-operated pressure regulator for supplying control pressure for a diaphragm-operated gas control valve, the actuator also operating an on-off control valve for the gas valve. A passageway including a pressure adjusting device for supplying a minimum gas valve output pressure extends from the downstream side of the on-off valve to the gas valve outlet.

Abstract: A first and second sensor and alarm member is mounted relative to a gas appliance, and more particularly to the diverter housing and adjacent a lower portion of the gas appliance for detection of spillage in the form of flue restriction relative to the first sensor or roll-out sensing relative to gas fumes backed up relative to the flame portion of the gas appliance.

Abstract: Gas burner safety device for use with gas fired heating systems and water heaters to shut-off main gas valve controlled gas flow to the burner's main gas jet in the event that the main jet becomes partially submerged to at least a critical level in surrounding floodwater and unable to function normally, although the burner's pilot light remains lit and unimpeded resulting in generation of a erroneous thermocouple safety interlock signal for the main gas valve. The device prevents any massive injection of gas into the surrounding floodwater as gas bubbles which can float about and uncontrollably ignite, or release of gas into the circumjacent environment, thereby preventing an otherwise very dangerous situation where fire or explosion may occur which might result in extensive property damage, as well as personal injury or death.

Abstract: The invention provides a flame failure device in which the reservoir exposed to the flame is charged with air and is communicated via a capillary tube to displace a membrane and hold the main valve in an open position, and the valve is closed by a spring when pressure falls as a result of the flame being extinguished. The system is re-charged via a one-way valve when pressure in the system falls below ambient pressure.

Abstract: A fail safe gas shut off system is provided for a gas appliance. Two normally closed valve stages are provided in series, with each stage operated by a bidirectional solenoid armature. When the armature moves in one direction, the first stage of the valve is opened to supply gas to a pilot burner and to the second stage of the valve. When the pilot flame heats an emissive element to produce sufficient radiation, a photovoltaic device illuminated by the emissive element produces current for an electromagnet which latches the first stage of the valve in its open position. The armature can then move in the opposite direction and open the second stage of the valve to supply gas to the main burner. In the event of pilot flame failure, the emissive element darkens, and current from the photovoltaic device ends. The electromagnet releases the first stage of the valve which is biased closed and cuts off gas flow to both the pilot and main burners.

Abstract: An automatic controller for a master gas switch includes a timer for keeping the switch opened for a selectable time. The controller includes an electrical motor for rapidly closing the switch. The motor is responsive to two conditions: When the timer reaches the end of a selectable time, it energizes the motor to cause the gas switch to close. Secondly, a flame induction rod monitors a gas burner flame, and when the flame stops, such rod causes a relay to close and energize the motor for gas switch closure.

Abstract: A self-powered control system for a gas-fired appliance having a pilot burner and a main burner includes an emissive surface in the flame of the pilot burner and a photovoltaic device for irradiation from the emissive surface for providing electrical power for the control system. Two normally closed electromagnetic latching valves are arranged in series between a source of fuel gas and the main burner with a connection to the pilot burner between the two valves. The first valve is latched open when the photovoltaic device is irradiated by the emissive surface and is unlatched to close when the device is not so irradiated. The second valve is unlatched to close when the main burner is not burning. A double acting solenoid or the like is used for sequentially opening the first and second valves for lighting the pilot and main burners. A safe, reliable control system is thereby provided without external electrical power. Similar principles are used for powering a safety flue damper and air flow fan.

Abstract: The invention relates to a pressure responsive assembly for controlling the supply of gas to a gas appliance. A pressure responsive device includes a sealed air bulb positioned to monitor the pilot flame of the appliance. A capillary tube connected at one end to the sealed bulb has its other end supported in the central channel of a small plug. An expandable diaphragm or membrane, having a central aperture aligned with the axis of the plug, is disposed to bear against a button member positioned between the diaphragm and an actuating lever set to control operation of a gas supply valve. The button member is shaped with channels, grooves or apertures to establish a through air connection between the capillary tube and external air when the diaphragm is in a deflated condition.

Abstract: An automatic fuel supply stopping device incorporated in fuel combustion equipment including a shut-off valve and a combustor. The automatic fuel supply stopping device comprises a fluid intercepting mechanism interposed in a channel through which the fuel supply to the combustor is supplied. A photosensor is adapted to detect fuel combustion in the combustor by radiation emitted from a thermosensitive luminous medium. The fluid intercepting mechanism alternately takes its first stable state or passage blocking state and is changed over, in response to an output from a sensor circuit, from the passage opening state to the passage blocking state.

Abstract: The movable elements of two normally closed valves are actuated by a thermal element responsive to ignition at a pilot burner supplied fuel through one of the valves. The two valve elements form a mechanical train from the thermal element which simultaneously unseats the second valve controlling fuel to the main burner and releases a manually operable mechanism with which the pilot burner valve is initially unseated for ignition.

Abstract: A hydraulic actuator and valve are used for the control of fuel to a burner. The actuator is energized to open the valve through a manual start switch and a manual reset switch to prevent the manual start switch from being held in either accidentally or intentionally to overcome a safety monitoring control, such as a flame safeguard programmer.

Abstract: A flame failure device has a hollow, tubular, heat-resistant, temperature sensitive member to be directly heated by a flame and so arranged that the member will expand or contract along a generally rectilinear axis as it is heated or cooled. The temperature-sensitive member is connected to a mount in a manner which permits or permitted at least initial adjustment of the relative position of the mount and temperature-sensitive element along the generally rectilinear axis and has an abutment which will move relative to the mount as the temperature-sensitive member is heated or cooled. A main valve for controlling supply of fuel to a burner has a fuel inlet, a fuel outlet, a chamber having a diaphragm defining a wall of the chamber, a main-valve member operatively connected to the diaphragm and movable therewith, and a supply passage for restricted fuel flow to the chamber.

Abstract: A gas control device for controlling the gas supply to the burner of a domestic hot water boiler has two main valves arranged in series in the gas flow path so as when closed to define a chamber between them. A second chamber is communicable with this chamber through an auxiliary valve which is open when the main valves are closed and closed when the main valves are open. A shut-off valve is responsive to the pressure in the second chamber so as to close the flow path if gas leaks through the upstream main valve when supposedly closed. The subsequent closing of the auxiliary valve when the main valves are later opened maintains the pressure in the second chamber so that the shut-off valve remains closed.

Abstract: A floating O-ring is located between a valve plate and a valve seat to seal the valve, and is prevented from slipping out of alignment with the seat by cylindrical or conical guide structure.

Abstract: In a gas burner control system a normally closed, electromagnetically opened first valve has primary control of gas flow to pilot and main burners and the application of gas pressure to cause a normally closed, diaphragm-operated second valve controlling gas flow to a main burner to open; the first valve opens and a spark igniter becomes operative to ignite the pilot upon closure of a space thermostat. A thermostatically operated switch heated by pilot flame has a cold position through which a circuit to open the first valve is completed and a hot position through which a circuit causing the diaphragm-operated second valve to open is completed. A holding circuit paralleling the switch is effective to hold the first valve open when the switch moves to its hot position, but is ineffective to open it, so that upon failure of the electrical power supply, the first primary control valve will not open until the switch has cooled to its cold position.

Abstract: A hot fluid is directed through a valved conduit inlet. Downstream of the inlet, the conduit divides into a pair of outlets through which the hot fluid flows. The flow through the outlets is controlled by a pair of vertically oriented valves linked together by a V-shaped linkage and weight biased toward the closed position such that when one valve is open the other is closed, and vice versa. The valve actuation means comprises a permanent magnet mounted on the housing in close proximity to each valve; each valve has mounted thereon and exposed to the hot fluid a magnetic material. Thus, when the magnetic material on the open valve is heated above its Curie temperature, the material loses its attraction for the permanent magnet and the weight bias closes that valve and simultaneously moves the other valve close enough to the permanent magnet to be held open thereby. When that valve's magnetic material is heated above the Curie temperature it in turn closes and the other valve opens.

Abstract: A gas burner control system in which closure of a space thermostat causes energization of an electromagnetic actuator to supply fuel to a pilot burner and effect the operation of an igniter to ignite it; a thermostatic actuator heated by the pilot flame then effects the flow of fuel to a main burner where it is ignited by the pilot burner. The electromagnetic actuator also jointly controls the flow of fuel to the main burner, so that when the thermostat opens, de-energizing the electromagnetic actuator, fuel flow to the main burner as well as to the pilot burner is immediately cut off.

Abstract: A fluid control system for use with combustion apparatus including a valve assembly having first and second serially connected valves positioned between the inlet and outlet of the valve assembly. First and second actuators respectively connected to operate the first and second valves function to maintain each of the valves in closed positions in the absence of a flame at the pilot burner of the combustion apparatus to prevent flow of fluid to the main burner.