Explosive Actuation Patents (Class 137/68.13)
  • Patent number: 11896860
    Abstract: Fire fighting system with a first feed platform arranged for feeding a pipe system having extinguishing nozzles with extinguishing fluid comprising a first sub-system with a first extinguishing fluid reservoir, at least two first propellant gas reservoirs, and a first control circuit, wherein the first propellant gas reservoirs each have a valve for pneumatically coupling the respective first propellant gas reservoir to the extinguishing fluid reservoir and the respective valves can be pneumatically activated in each case via an outlet of the respective other valve, a second sub-system having a second extinguishing fluid reservoir, at least two second propellant gas reservoirs and a second control circuit, the second propellant gas reservoirs each having a valve for pneumatically coupling the respective second propellant gas reservoir to the extinguishing fluid reservoir, and the respective valves being activatable pneumatically in each case via an outlet of the respective other valve, characterized in that t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: FOGTEC Brandschutz GmbH
    Inventors: Ulrich Hiltemann, Martin Frießner, Roger-André Dirksmeier
  • Patent number: 11859770
    Abstract: An actuator for opening a hermetically sealed cylinder is disclosed herein. The actuator includes an actuation chamber configured to receive pressurized gas, the actuation chamber at least partially defined by a top wall and a bottom wall, a cutter body disposed within the actuation chamber between the top wall and the bottom wall, the cutter body including a top portion and a bottom portion, a cutting edge extending from the bottom portion of the cutter body, and a spring disposed between the top portion of the cutter body and the bottom wall of the actuation chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: GOODRICH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Poly John, Vasantha Kumara Jnanegowda, Srijith Purushothaman, Ashish Kumar Agarwal
  • Patent number: 11858176
    Abstract: The invention relates to a die assembly for a pelletizing apparatus, the die assembly having a pressure regulating device that has a base member, a flow channel, and an annular channel. The base member has a fluid inlet side and a fluid outlet side. The flow channel is formed in the base member to provide a fluid-conducting connection between the fluid inlet side and the fluid outlet side. The annular channel section is connected to the flow channel in a fluid-conducting manner and formed in the region of the fluid outlet side. The invention is characterized by a flow cross-section regulating element for influencing a flow cross-section of the annular channel section. The regulating element is movable relative to the annular channel section and/or the flow channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Nikolai Schnellbach, Anatoly Baklashov
  • Patent number: 11718267
    Abstract: An initiator for a gas generator of a vehicle safety device includes a cup defining an interior, a primary pyrotechnic material disposed in a primary combustion chamber in the interior of the cup, and a pair of electrical pins in reaction initiating communication with the primary pyrotechnic material through a bridge wire. The bridge wire is in reaction initiating contact with the primary pyrotechnic material at a first end of the primary pyrotechnic material. The primary pyrotechnic material is compacted within the primary combustion chamber to include a depression at a second end of the primary pyrotechnic material, the second end opposite the first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2022
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Mason Wayment, Matthew Erni
  • Patent number: 10385981
    Abstract: A method of sequencing a pyrotechnic system includes igniting at least one of a first energetic coupled to a first inlet of a one way sequence termination arrangement, and a second energetic coupled to a second inlet of the one way sequence termination arrangement, fluidically coupling the first inlet to an outlet of the one way sequence termination arrangement in response to the second energetic being ignited before the first energetic is ignited, and blocking fluidic coupling between the second inlet and the outlet in response to the first energetic being ignited before the second energetic is ignited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew D Salois, Matthew S Campbell
  • Patent number: 10374213
    Abstract: A liquid reserve battery including: a collapsible storage unit having a liquid electrolyte stored therein; a battery cell having an inlet in communication with an outlet of the collapsible storage unit, the battery cell having gaps dispersed therein; a first pyrotechnic material disposed adjacent the collapsible storage unit such that initiation of the first pyrotechnic material provides pressure to collapse the collapsible storage unit to heat and force the liquid electrolyte through the outlet and into the gaps; and one or more heat exchangers disposed between the outlet of the collapsible storage unit and the inlet of the battery cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: OMNITEK PARTNERS LLC
    Inventor: Jahangir S Rastegar
  • Patent number: 10352472
    Abstract: A valve arrangement includes a housing with an outlet and an inlet and having a poppet. The poppet has a stem and is movable within the housing along a movement axis between an open position and a closed position. The inlet is isolated from the outlet when the poppet is in the closed position. The inlet is in fluid communication with the outlet when the poppet is in the open position. The stem is inverted relative to the housing such that at least a portion of the poppet stem is disposed in the inlet when the poppet is in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: Kidde Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Doug John Baxendell, David William Frasure
  • Patent number: 10286235
    Abstract: An example unit load device inerting system includes a nitrogen generation system, a first conduit coupled to the nitrogen generation system to carry nitrogen, an inlet located downstream of the first conduit and attached to a unit load device to deliver the nitrogen into the unit load device, an outlet attached to the unit load device, and a second conduit coupled to the outlet to carry gas out of the unit load device. An example method includes flowing nitrogen through a first conduit from a nitrogen generation system to an inlet located downstream of the first conduit and the inlet is attached to a unit load device to deliver the nitrogen into the unit load device, and venting the unit load device to transport gas out of the unit load device through a second conduit coupled to an outlet configured to be attached to the unit load device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: David Smith, Douglas Ferguson
  • Patent number: 10252092
    Abstract: 1. Technical effect Increasing the quick action, efficiency and reliability of currently available explosion protection systems. 2. Essence of application The proposed explosion protection system contains an explosion detector and a shock wave damping agent discharge device. The detector consists of overpressure and flame sensors, an identification module and an electromagnetic signal wireless transmitter. The discharge device contains a container filled with damping agent. 3. Field of use Protection of infrastructural and industrial facilities from non-authorized and, terrorist explosions; localization of methane explosion energy in coal mines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: LEPL G. TSULUKIDZE MINING INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Edgar Mataradze, Nikoloz Chikhradze, Theodor Krauthammer
  • Patent number: 10203043
    Abstract: Safety valves accurately control closure and opening of fluid passage through the valve. Valves include a barrier that blocks the fluid until removal only by a high-energy projectile. Following removal and opening, the barrier or the projectile can flow through the valve, which remains open. Bullets, pneumatic pistons, shot, coilgun pellets and any other forceful projectile may impact and remove the barrier. The projectile is actuated with any type of chemical reaction, firing pin, spring release, accelerating circuit, ignition circuit. Catchers in the valve envelop or otherwise retain the projectile or barrier pieces and enter the fluid flow of the opened valve without blocking it. Disruptable barriers include strong but breakable glass plates, thin steel sheets, a rotatable door and other barriers that can withstand potentially over 10,000 psi of fluid pressure while closing the valve. Valves can use circuits to both monitor valve open/closed status and initiate firing the projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Americas LLC
    Inventors: Eric P. Loewen, Ana DaSilva, Bradley L. Wile, Nicholas F. O'Neill
  • Patent number: 10054237
    Abstract: A breakaway coupling includes a body and a valve assembly inside the body. The body includes a fluid conduit and a shear groove between first and second portions. The shear groove is designed to crack, break, or separate under certain conditions. The valve assembly is designed to shut off fluid flow through the fluid conduit when the shear groove cracks, breaks, or separates. The valve assembly includes a valve seat, a sealing element, one or more pins, and a biasing member. The one or more pins hold the sealing element in an open position while the shear groove is in tack, and allow the sealing element to move to a closed position (with the help of the biasing member) in the event the shear groove cracks, breaks, or separates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignees: OPW-ENGINEERED SYSTEMS, INC., OPERATIONS TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT, NFP
    Inventors: Joseph P Roth, Michael Crum, Dennis R. Jarnecke, Krzysztof Wejdman, Narendar Venkatachalapathy
  • Patent number: 10036617
    Abstract: A high flow rate inflator intended to be threaded into or onto the threaded neck of a conventional gas cylinder. The inflator comprises a spring-loaded ballasted firing pin that is retained in a cocked position by a tethered trigger pin. Upon firing by pulling on the trigger pin, the firing pin forcibly moves into engagement with a power primer mounted with a power primer holder to ignite the same, whereupon the ignition gases forcibly drives a hollow larger diameter pierce pin mounted within an interior cylinder into the frangible seal of the gas cartridge to cut a large-bore hole therethrough and allow gas escaping from the gas cylinder to flow at a high rate through the inflator into an inflatable device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2018
    Assignee: Halkey-Roberts Corporation
    Inventor: Glenn H. Mackal
  • Patent number: 9938795
    Abstract: A multi-barrier seal system, including, a first seal assembly configured to provide a first sealing barrier between an auxiliary line and a mineral extraction system, and a second seal assembly configured to provide a second sealing barrier between the auxiliary line and the mineral extraction system, wherein the second seal assembly is configured to shear through the auxiliary line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventor: Loc Gia Hoang
  • Patent number: 9926755
    Abstract: A perforating gun technique. The technique includes perforating with the gun in a manner that deforms internal support structure thereof. Thus, follow-on treatment with a breakup fluid tailored to the material of the support structure may be utilized to dissolve the structure. The carrier of the gun which houses the structure may then be utilized as a conduit for fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2018
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Charles Van Petegem, Aleksey Barykin, Philip Kokel, Michael J. Bertoja, Juan Pablo Guerra
  • Patent number: 9920589
    Abstract: A system for use with a well can include a perforating assembly with at least one perforator, the perforating assembly conveyed through a wellbore with fluid flow through the wellbore, and plugging devices spaced apart from the perforating assembly in the wellbore, the plugging devices conveyed through the wellbore with the fluid flow. A method of deploying plugging devices in a wellbore can include conveying a perforating assembly including a dispensing tool through the wellbore, the dispensing tool including a container, and then releasing the plugging devices from the container into the wellbore at a downhole location. Another method of deploying plugging devices in a wellbore can include conveying the plugging devices through the wellbore with fluid flow through the wellbore, and conveying a perforating assembly through the wellbore while the plugging devices are being conveyed through the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Brock W. Watson, Andrew M. Ferguson, Roger L. Schultz, Gary P. Funkhouser, Jenna N. Robertson
  • Patent number: 9861846
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a broadhead cutter activation mechanism and system inside of a fire extinguisher. The broadhead cutter device may be attached to a cutter shaft which is driven downward when the elastic potential energy is released form a spring system. The broadhead cutter device may be configured to pierce and open a burst disc to release the flow of an extinguishing agent under pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: Kidde Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David Frasure, John Wright Porterfield
  • Patent number: 9789845
    Abstract: The invention relates to a combustion chamber (10) comprising an opening device for a compressed gas tank (21) of a hybrid inflator (20), wherein the combustion chamber (30) comprises a sleeve-type combustion chamber sidewall (34) confining a combustion chamber interior (31) and a combustion chamber bottom (10), wherein the opening device is arranged on a surface (11) of the combustion chamber bottom (10) facing away from the combustion chamber interior (31) and faces away from the combustion chamber interior (31). In accordance with the invention, the combustion chamber bottom (10) is tightly connected to the combustion chamber sidewall (34) so that in the case of operation the combustion chamber bottom (10) is bendable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: TRW Airbag Systembs GmbH
    Inventors: Johannes Ebner, Thomas Kapfelsperger
  • Patent number: 9745820
    Abstract: A method of releasing plugging devices into a wellbore can include conveying a dispensing tool to a desired downhole location in the wellbore, the dispensing tool including a container, and then releasing the plugging devices from the container into the wellbore at the downhole location. A plugging device dispensing system for use with a subterranean well can include a dispensing tool having a container configured for containing multiple plugging devices, and an actuator operable to release the plugging devices from the container at a downhole location in the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: Thru Tubing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Brock W. Watson, Andrew M. Ferguson, Roger L. Schultz, Gary P. Funkhouser, Jenna N. Robertson
  • Patent number: 9746092
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes an inlet and an outlet, which open into a working chamber of the valve assembly, and an actuator. In a non-actuated state of the actuator, a flow passage between the inlet and the outlet is blocked. The actuator is optionally a shape-memory actuator that can be actuated one time or comprises a shape-memory actuator, which suddenly changes its external shape upon reaching a conversion temperature, which is dependent on the alloy composition thereof, and which can be generated by a controllable electrical heating device of the valve assembly. The actuator irreversibly destroys a pipe element separating the inlet from the outlet in the working chamber upon actuation, whereby the inlet and the outlet are connected to one another with respect to flow via the working chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: Airbus DS GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Wolf, Thomas Maier, Stephan Kraus
  • Patent number: 9481339
    Abstract: The present invention provides a gas generator, including a cylindrical housing having therein an ignition device chamber and a pressurized gas chamber, a closing member in a circular shape having a fragile portion provided on one surface and closing between the chambers, a piston being disposed inside the ignition device chamber and having a base plate and a rod that extends in the axial direction from one surface of the base plate to abut against or face the closing member, the fragile portion being a groove formed with a curve extending from a start point A on Y1 to an end point E through a first intermediate point B on Y2, a second intermediate point C on Y1, and a third intermediate point D on Y2, where Y1 and Y2 are two straight lines drawn to be orthogonal to each other and to pass through a crossing point X2 on one surface of the closing member, the groove formed so that distances from the crossing point X2 to the respective points satisfy the following relationship: the distance to the start point
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: DAICEL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tomoharu Kobayashi, Mikio Yabuta
  • Patent number: 9444259
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a downhole safety device (1) for a downhole tool (2) for controlling a delivery of electricity from a power device to an electrical component in the tool, comprising a first member (3) comprising a plurality of conductors (4) and a second member (6) comprising a plurality of conductors (7). Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for activating the safety device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: WELLTEC A/S
    Inventor: Jørgen Hallundbæk
  • Patent number: 9381887
    Abstract: A pyrotechnic pretensioner (10) for a safety system in a vehicle has an inflator (22) including a propelling charge (26) and an igniter (32) and including a housing (12) in which a pressure chamber (14) is provided into which gas can flow and in which a piston can be displaced by the gas, an end piece (16) which closes the pressure chamber (14) and in which a chamber (24) is formed into which the propelling charge (26) is filled and whose wall constitutes the wall of the propellant is provided on the housing (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: TRW Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Peter Betz, Dominik Seitzer, Ruediger Karl
  • Patent number: 9261200
    Abstract: A valve mechanism is herein described that utilizes a frangible plug. The valve mechanism comprises a valve body having an inlet port and an outlet port and a passageway extending therebetween. The valve mechanism comprises a frangible plug that is held within the valve body to block the passageway when the plug is intact. The plug comprises a predefined fracture plane and is configured to fracture across the predefined fracture plane upon application of an impact force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: KIDDE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Paul D. Smith, Paul Rennie, Robert G. Dunster, Paul W. Weller, Francis T. Clarence, Joseph Peoples
  • Patent number: 9004092
    Abstract: A device (1) for draining a tank of fluid under pressure pertaining to a space system includes a pyrotechnic actuator that is suitable to perforate a conduit (2) in fluid communication with the tank, the device including a collar (4) that is suitable to enclose the conduit, the collar bearing: a pyrotechnic cartridge (5) for perforation, oriented radially towards the conduit (2), and an anvil (11), diametrically opposed to the cartridge in relation to the conduit, that is suitable to collect debris generated by the perforation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (C.N.E.S.)
    Inventor: Denis Dilhan
  • Publication number: 20150020893
    Abstract: A locking poppet valve that is reusable and can be pyrotechnically actuated includes an actuating mechanism and a valve assembly that are in fluid communication. A fluid channel traverses through a valve body and fluidly connects the actuating mechanism to a poppet valve positioned within the valve body. When the actuating mechanism is fired, a piston is displaced within an actuator housing, which in turn displaces hydraulic fluid within the actuator housing and the fluid channel. The displaced hydraulic fluid acts to push a valve spool along a valve stem, opening the poppet valve and allowing fluid to flow through the valve body. Additionally, the piston is held in a fired position by a locking mechanism, such that the poppet valve remains open. The poppet valve can be reset by disengaging the locking mechanism and allowing the hydraulic fluid to re-displace within the fluid channel and the actuator housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventor: Luke S. Colby
  • Patent number: 8910651
    Abstract: Apparatus, methods and systems for inspecting and/or sensing defects in a thermal pressure relief device. The thermal pressure relief apparatus may comprise a bulb having a fluid therein. In some implementations, a sensor may be used to determine whether the fluid within the bulb exceeds a fill level threshold. Upon determining that the fluid is below the fill level threshold, an action may be taken. In some implementations, the action may comprise providing a notification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Axel Heise
  • Publication number: 20140238708
    Abstract: A valve actuation mechanism has a plurality of links. Each link has a proximal end and distal end, and the links are disposed adjacent a valve member. The actuation mechanism also has at least one roller connected to the distal ends of at least two links. The roller contacts a surface of the valve member. In addition, at least one pivot for each link is present in the valve, wherein each pivot is positioned on the proximal end of each of the plurality of links.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: Kidde Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Doug John Baxendell, Rusty Rose, Daniel Ray MacLachlan
  • Patent number: 8800585
    Abstract: A high speed valve has a valve body having a flow passage therethrough, and a poppet disposed within the valve body. The poppet is movable between a first position in which the poppet blocks the flow passage and a second position, and the poppet has a piston connected to a stem at a proximal end of the stem. The valve also has a rotating lever release mechanism adjacent a distal end of the stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Kidde Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph R. Jarrell, Clifton Ray Jones
  • Patent number: 8776820
    Abstract: A valve actuation mechanism for a high rate discharge valve has a collet with fingers adjacent a valve member that provides restraint against displacement of the valve member at angularly spaced locations symmetrical about the axis of the valve member. Each collet finger has at least one projection adjacent a first end. The valve actuation mechanism also has a collet sleeve release mechanism with a main body portion having a first end and a second end. The main body portion contains an aperture with at least one land portion that secures each projection of the collet fingers. The main body portion also has an actuation pad at the second end, as well as a hinge mechanism for allowing rotational movement of the main body portion connected to the first end of the main body portion, and an actuation device that contacts the actuation pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Kidde Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph R. Jarrell, Clifton Ray Jones
  • Patent number: 8757191
    Abstract: A valve actuation mechanism has a plurality of links. Each link has a proximal end and distal end, and the links are disposed adjacent a valve member. The actuation mechanism also has at least one roller connected to the distal ends of at least two links. The roller contacts a surface of the valve member. In addition, at least one pivot for each link is present in the valve, wherein each pivot is positioned on the proximal end of each of the plurality of links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Kiddie Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Doug John Baxendell, Rusty Rose, Daniel Ray MacLachlan
  • Patent number: 8752569
    Abstract: A shutoff fitting as protection device for blocking a fluid flow through a conduit includes a pneumatic adjustment device, and a hybrid gas generator operably connected to the adjustment device. The hybrid gas generator has a reaction chamber with a gas generator and a pressure gas chamber containing compressed gas and arranged adjacent to the reaction chamber. An inlet diaphragm separates the reaction chamber from the pressure gas chamber and can be penetrated, when the gas generator is activated, so that a passage is established from the reaction chamber to the pressure gas chamber. An outlet diaphragm closes the pressure gas chamber and is rendered ineffective through destruction when the gas generator is activated to enable compressed gas to flow into the adjustment device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventor: Franz Alfert
  • Patent number: 8713912
    Abstract: Embodiments of a solid propellant rocket motor are provided. In one embodiment, the solid propellant rocket motor includes a pressure vessel having a cavity therein, a solid propellant disposed within the cavity, a nozzle fluidly coupled to the cavity, and a tungsten alloy burst disc positioned proximate the nozzle. The tungsten alloy burst disc is configured to block gas flow through the nozzle when the tungsten alloy burst disc is intact and to fragment at a predetermined burst pressure. Embodiments of a method are further provided for manufacturing a burst disc. In one embodiment, the method comprises the step of forming a burst disc from a tungsten alloy. Embodiments of a burst disc are still further provided. In one embodiment, the burst disc includes an outer annular portion, and a central portion comprising a tungsten alloy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: James H. Dupont, Sean J. Whitmarsh
  • Patent number: 8671967
    Abstract: A relief valve is provided and may include a housing having a first inlet port and a second inlet port. An initiator may be disposed within the housing and an engagement member may be slideably disposed within the housing and may be moveable between a retracted position and an extended position under force of the initiator. The engagement member may include a first bore aligned with the first inlet port in the extended position and a second bore aligned with the second inlet port in the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent Parks, Matthew A. Cox, Bradley W. Smith
  • Patent number: 8676448
    Abstract: An occupant protection device includes (i) an electronic control unit having a control board, (ii) a parallel connection bus having two lines, (iii) multiple satellite sensors connected to the parallel connection bus, (iv) a squib connected to the parallel connection bus, and (v) an accident prevention diode located close to the squib. The control board includes an interface and a processor. Each of the satellite sensors includes a distributed system interface which is located between the two lines. The parallel connection bus is supplied with a sensor drive voltage. The electronic control unit starts to operate at least one of the occupant protection portions based on a result of the collision determination by the control board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Shinji Ooyabu
  • Patent number: 8622070
    Abstract: A valve release mechanism has an actuator, a ring, a plurality of ball bearings, and a retainer. The retainer is positioned adjacent an inner diameter of the ring and has a plurality of circumferentially spaced holes therein. Each circumferentially spaced hole receives one of the plurality of ball bearings, which are movable therein. The ring has channels and lands along its inner diameter that allow the ball bearings to move varying distances relative to the retainer. The lands contact the ball bearings when the ring is in a first position and the channels receive the ball bearings when the ring is in a second position. The poppet has a groove that is vertically aligned with circumferentially spaced holes in the retainer when the poppet is in a first closed position. The ball bearings are pressed into the groove in the poppet by the lands of the ring. The resulting interference of the ball bearings with poppet locks the poppet in the first closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Kidde Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Simpson, Dennis L. Linhares, Kenneth William Murray, Joday L. Gardner
  • Patent number: 8596179
    Abstract: A pyrotechnic drive unit includes a cylinder tube (12) having an axial end (28), a piston (14) guided in the cylinder tube (12), a pyrotechnic igniter (16) which is adjacent to the piston (14) and constitutes the pyrotechnic drive, and a plastic part (18). The plastic part (18) is injection-molded to the igniter (16) and to the axial end (28) of the cylinder tube (12) so that it fastens the igniter (16) to the cylinder tube (12) and tightly closes the axial end (28) of the cylinder tube (12), the plastic part (18) engaging the piston (14) in an initial position of the drive unit (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: TRW Airbag Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Ernst Enzmann, Silvia Michl, Achim Hofmann, Rolf Ruckdeschl, Peter Roemer, Andreas Zehentmeier
  • Patent number: 8567427
    Abstract: Blowout preventer blocks, each having a channel and plate(s) to close it. The blocks are placed over a pipe through which oil or other fluid is escaping, so that the pipe is in their channels. Alongside the channel in each block are one or more plates, having diameters somewhat larger than the diameter of the channel. Explosive charges propel the plates into the channel to seal it off and stop the leak. When multiple blocks and/or multiple plates in a block are placed over a pipe, the assembly may be referred to as a “Christmas tree.” There are passages that allow the plates to move into place to block the channel. Leading edges of the plates act as male elements that engage female reciprocal ends of the passages to create a seal. Grooves and tunnels in the plates allow fluid to escape into the pipe to ensure a seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventor: Philip John Milanovich
  • Patent number: 8499779
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which in some embodiments a non-pyrotechnic valve includes an inlet piece, an actuator comprising a shape-memory metal, and an outlet attached to the inlet piece. In some examples, the shape-memory metal includes Nitinol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics Space Administration
    Inventor: Rebecca A. Gillespie
  • Patent number: 8397741
    Abstract: A flow control valve including, a tubular housing having a valve port, a piston disposed in the tubular housing having an orifice, the piston being slidable in the tubular housing to align the orifice with the valve port, a combustion portion at least partially defined by the tubular housing and the piston, and a propellant disposed in the combustion portion and method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Stephen Bisset
  • Patent number: 8316872
    Abstract: A blowout preventer with a block having a channel and one or more plates to close the channel. The block is placed over a pipe through which oil or other fluid is escaping, so that the pipe is in the channel. Alongside the channel are one or more circular plates, having diameters somewhat larger than the diameter of the channel. Explosive charges propel the plates into the channel to seal it off and stop the leak. The explosive charges may be ignited by radio, electric or sonic signals or other suitable means. There are passages for the plates that are orthogonal to the cylindrical channel, that allow the plates to move into place to block the channel, while preventing them from moving too far and overshooting the channel. Ratchets keep the plates from moving back after they have blocked the channel. Vents allow gas from the explosive charges to escape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Inventor: Philip John Milanovich
  • Patent number: 7914040
    Abstract: A gas generating system incorporating a gas flow control mechanism including opposed wall portions defining a cavity for slidably receiving a support member therein. A gas exit passage is exterior of the cavity and in fluid communication with the cavity. An opening in one wall portion enables fluid flow into the cavity. An opening in another wall portion enables a fluid flow from the cavity into the gas exit passage. A seal prevents fluid flow into the cavity when the seal is supported against a force exerted by the fluid. A support member slidably received within the cavity supports the seal against the fluid force. A mechanism is provided for moving the support member from a first position supporting the seal to a second position wherein the seal is unsupported by the support member, enabling failure of the seal and flow of the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: TK Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce A. Stevens
  • Publication number: 20110030941
    Abstract: A relief valve is provided and may include a housing having a first inlet port and a second inlet port. An initiator may be disposed within the housing and an engagement member may be slideably disposed within the housing and may be moveable between a retracted position and an extended position under force of the initiator. The engagement member may include a first bore aligned with the first inlet port in the extended position and a second bore aligned with the second inlet port in the extended position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Applicant: Autoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent Parks, Matthew A. Cox, Bradley W. Smith
  • Patent number: 7878215
    Abstract: A valve for controlling flow of pressurized fluid from a confined area that is operable to relieve an overpressure condition as well as to allow flow of fluid in response to a pressure relief command. The valve including a valve body with a fluid passage therethrough, a reverse buckling rupture disc in the valve body in normally blocking relationship to the flow of fluid through the passage, and a selectively actuatable device carried by the valve body adjacent the convex surface. The actuatable device is operable to disrupt, without puncturing, the disc so as to initiate reversal and rupture of the disc and to permit flow of the pressurized fluid through the passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Fike Corporation
    Inventors: Mark McLelland, Bradford T. Stilwell, Bon F. Shaw, Michael D. Krebill, DeVang Patel, John K. Schaefer
  • Patent number: 7874250
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a component for use in a wellbore, and a nano-based device for activating the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Anthony F. Veneruso
  • Patent number: 7721915
    Abstract: A dual stage hybrid inflation device includes a first stage gas source including a liquefied gas stored in a first stage pressure vessel and a second stage gas source including a gas generator having a gas output directed into the first stage pressure vessel. The gas generator is isolated from the first stage pressure vessel by a frangible diaphragm that ruptures when the pressure in the gas generator exceeds the pressure in the first stage pressure vessel by a predetermined amount. The gas generator is also isolated from the first stage pressure vessel by an eroding nozzle that temporarily restricts the flow of gas from the gas generator to the first stage pressure vessel after the frangible diaphragm ruptures. The eroding nozzle initially restricts the flow of gas from the gas generator to the first stage pressure vessel to prevent a sudden pressure drop in the gas generator that would cause the pyrotechnic gas generating material to self extinguish.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher J. Bock, Gregory L. Wiebers
  • Patent number: 7637534
    Abstract: A cold gas generator for inflating a gas bag with help of a gas flowing out of a gas pressure vessel (7) with a discharge opening (1) closed off by a destructible membrane (2) arched in a direction opposite relative to the stored gas, with destruction of the membrane (2) occurring by a hot gas jet aimed at the membrane (2), which jet is produced by ignition of a primer (4) which can be activated by application of an electric pulse. In the filled state of gas pressure vessel (7), the surface (6a) of membrane (2) which is averted from the same is directed in an exposed manner into a room (12) which is in connection with the gas bag via at least one discharge opening (11) and through which the hot gas jet is guided which is focused on the membrane (2) via a nozzle chamber (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: ISI Airbag GmbH
    Inventor: Dietmar Schäfer
  • Publication number: 20090314355
    Abstract: The present invention includes a valve assembly having a fluid flow passage, a piston passage, a closure element and a moveable piston. The fluid flow passage extends from an inlet port to an outlet port. The piston passage transects and is oriented non-parallel to the fluid flow passage. The closure element interrupts fluid communication between the inlet and outlet ports. The piston being moveable within the piston passage between a first and second position, the piston including a head for opening the closure element wherein movement of the piston between the first and second positions enables fluid communication between the inlet and outlet ports. The valve assembly can include an explosive actuation mechanism for rapid actuation of the piston from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: Target Rock Division of Curtiss-Wright Flow Control Corporation
    Inventor: Andrew L. Szeglin
  • Publication number: 20090293960
    Abstract: Apparatus deflates a tire following unauthorized access to a motor vehicle. In one embodiment, a self-damaging tire valve assembly is capable of being damaged to such a degree by damage inflicting apparatus in close proximity to the valve assembly that air escapes from the corresponding tire. An activation device housed within the damage inflicting apparatus, when activated, following unauthorized access of a motor vehicle is able to damage the body and grommet of the valve assembly without damaging the tire rim. In one embodiment, a processor transmits an activation signal to a wireless switch following reception of an unauthorized access signal when the motor vehicle is in an armed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Dror Tzarum, Asher Tzarum
  • Patent number: 7536850
    Abstract: The emergency fuel shutoff system for a gas turbine engine comprises a pyrotechnic device which allows the fuel circuit to be closed upon triggering of the pyrotechnic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp.
    Inventors: Kevin Allan Dooley, Joseph Brand
  • Patent number: 7513184
    Abstract: A pyrotechnically-ruptureable composite structural component, intended to transmit forces between first and second structural elements, has an elongate pyrotechnic detonation separation component incorporated in the structural component for breaking the structural component and separating the first and second elements. The structural component has a first part in which the pyrotechnic separation component is incorporated and which is able to be connected to the first element, and a second part that connects to the second element. The first and second parts are rigidly assembled via their free ends, which are the opposite ends to the first and second elements respectively. The rigid assembly has a damper arranged between the free ends of the first and second elements so as to damp a detonation shock propagating to the free end of the first part when the pyrotechnic separation component is detonated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Eads Space Transportation SAS
    Inventor: Thomas Kister