Having Pressure Responsive Valve Patents (Class 137/71)
  • Patent number: 11951930
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a diffusor for a gas generator of an airbag module, comprising a substantially tubular base body with a longitudinal axis, a baffle cap axially connected to the base body at a first end of the diffusor and a connecting device configured at a second end of the diffusor opposite to the first end. At least one outflow opening is formed in an outer wall of the tubular base body such that gas can flow out of an interior of the diffusor substantially in parallel to a longitudinal axis in the direction of the first end and the second end from the diffusor. The baffle cap is free from an outflow opening. The disclosure further relates to a gas generator comprising such a diffusor, as well as an airbag module including such a gas generator. Moreover, a method for manufacturing the diffusor is also proved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: ZF Airbag Germany GmnH
    Inventors: Christian Jung, Thomas Kapfelsperger, Bernd Weber, Michael Schmökel
  • Patent number: 11945397
    Abstract: In an assembly group comprising a cap of a tubular gas generator and a deflector element that deflects gas flowing out of at least one outflow opening of the cap to at least one discharge opening of the deflector element, a deflection surface of the deflector element is arranged radially outwardly of the outflow opening. At least two securing arms of the deflector element extend through the outflow opening and engage behind an edge defining the outflow opening on an inside in a positive connection with the cap. The cap is fixed firmly to an axial end of the tubular gas generator. Subsequently, the deflector element is slid from an outside of the cap with its securing arms through the outflow opening, the securing arms forming a positive connection with the edge of the outflow opening which fixes the deflector element firmly to the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: ZF Airbag Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Jung, Thomas Kapfelsperger, Michael Schmökel
  • Patent number: 11808109
    Abstract: A frangible disk configuration including a housing, a sleeve in the housing, a releaser, releaseably retaining the sleeve in a fixed position relative to the housing and a frangible disk mounted in the housing in a position contactable by the sleeve after release by the releaser. A method for rupturing a frangible disk, including applying pressure to a configuration, causing release of the releaser at a threshold pressure on the applied pressure and sliding the sleeve into contact with the frangible disk. A borehole system including a borehole in a subsurface formation, and a frangible disk configuration, disposed in the borehole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES OILFIELD OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Nicholas S. Conner, Edward J. Kossa
  • Patent number: 11608919
    Abstract: Couplings are disclosed herein. A plug of a coupling includes a plug body and a socket interface coupled to the plug body. The socket interface includes a shoulder extending axially outward from the plug body, a neck extending axially outward and radially inward from the shoulder, and a socket guide extending axially outward and radially outward from the neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Sprenger, Joseph Broderick, Aaron Anderson, Kenan Arik, Brian Jarrett
  • Patent number: 11435003
    Abstract: Pressure reducer (10) having a housing (11) with a valve (12) positioned in said housing (11), wherein in closed position the valve (12) separates an inlet pressure chamber (13) of the housing (11) from an outlet pressure chamber (14) of the housing (11), and in open position connects the inlet pressure chamber (13) and the outlet pressure chamber (14), wherein the valve (12) has a diaphragm (16) acting on a valve tappet (15), on which diaphragm, by providing a pressure reducing function, a spring force of a spring element (17) acting in the opening direction of the valve (12) acts on the one hand and a force that is a function of the pressure prevailing in the outlet pressure chamber (14) acting in the closing direction of the valve (12) acts on the other hand, wherein the valve (12) has, attached to the valve tappet (15), a valve body (21) which, in closed position, bears against a valve seat (22) in a sealing manner and which in open position is raised off the valve seat (22), and wherein the spring elemen
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: Pittway Sarl
    Inventor: Kurt Weidner
  • Patent number: 10619442
    Abstract: Blowout preventers with pressure-balanced operating shafts are provided. In one embodiment, a blowout preventer includes a hollow body having a bore and a ram cavity. The blowout preventer also includes a pair of opposing rams disposed in the ram cavity and a shaft that extends through both rams of the pair of opposing rams. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Nicolas Arteaga
  • Patent number: 10221848
    Abstract: The valve member includes a valve body and a seal. The valve body defines a first frusto-conical surface and an outside annular cavity. The seal extends within the outside annular cavity and includes a first tapered and circumferentially-extending surface adapted to sealingly engage the tapered surface of the valve seat. In another aspect, the seal includes an annular bulbous protrusion from which the first tapered and circumferentially-extending surface angularly extends, the first tapered and circumferentially-extending surface extending between the annular bulbous protrusion and the first frusto-conical surface of the valve body. In another aspect, an offset distance is defined between the first frusto-conical surface of the valve body and at least a portion of the first tapered and circumferentially-extending surface of the seal, the offset distance extending in a direction that is perpendicular to at least the first frusto-conical surface of the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: S.P.M. FLOW CONTROL, INC.
    Inventors: Jacob A. Bayyouk, Charles Hensley
  • Patent number: 10112204
    Abstract: A tank holding a quantity of liquid releasably connects to an electric pump module through a connector to provide a portable sprayer. The tank connects to a feed line that supplies spray nozzle with the liquid. The connector combines a quick disconnect connector with a pressure relief valve. The electric pump module includes an electric pump, a switch assembly, and a check valve. The electric pump module directs gas through the check valve into the connector to increase the gas pressure in the tank and force the liquid in the tank to flow through the feed line and out the spray nozzle. The switch assembly turns off the electric pump when the gas pressure in the tank exceeds a predetermined limit while maintaining the flow of liquid through the spray nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: ForeFront Product Design, LLC
    Inventors: Phillip B. Schrum, Mark A. Verosky, David J. Krygowski
  • Patent number: 9897220
    Abstract: A safety unit for a home carbonation machine that includes a valve to release gas from a sealed state at a first pressure and a backup element set to rupture at a second higher pressure when the valve malfunctions. The valve also includes a backup element housing which moves to vent the gas via an outlet during carbonation and which has a conduit to direct the gas to the backup element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: SodaStream Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Avi Cohen, Guy Danieli
  • Patent number: 9695625
    Abstract: This device comprises: a pneumatic cylinder (34), a gas generator (36), a chamber (6, 8) for atmospheric venting, with: an inlet with a connection to the gas generator (36), a first outlet, a second outlet, a valve (16) having a first side (24) and a second side (26) which can change position under the effect of a gas generated by the gas generator and comprising a passage (22) between the two sides (24, 26) obstructed by means which are clearable based on the pressure, where said shuttle-valve (16) is mobile between: a first position allowing connection to the first outlet and the second outlet and isolating the inlet from the first outlet and the second outlet; and a second position allowing connection of the inlet with the first outlet and isolating the second outlet from the inlet and the first outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Assignee: RATIER FIGEAC
    Inventor: Eric Delbos
  • Patent number: 9617812
    Abstract: A drillstring valve has an inlet mountable to a drillstring, an outlet and a passageway extending between the inlet and the outlet in a predetermined operating condition. The drillstring valve comprises a stop element adapted for receiving a valve element wherein the stop element comprises at least two protrusions extending into a passageway portion of the passageway to thereby retain the valve element. The at least two protrusions are spaced in a circumferential direction of the passageway portion and may be spaced from an inlet edge having a continuously reduced diameter in a downstream direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: Schoeller-Bleckmann Oilfield Equipment AG
    Inventor: Paul Bernard Lee
  • Patent number: 9447658
    Abstract: A shut off system for a hydrocarbon recovery mandrel includes an inline valve assembly that contains a nipple that includes a chemical flow line. The chemical flow line is operative to transfer fluids from outside the wellbore to a mandrel channel; where the mandrel channel is disposed in the mandrel. A valve assembly includes a cylinder and a piston shaft; where the cylinder contacts the chemical flow line; where the piston shaft reciprocates in the cylinder in response to opposing applied pressures. The piston shaft contacts a sealing object that is operative to facilitate or to prevent fluid flow from the chemical flow line to the mandrel channel. The cylinder includes a port that provides fluid communication from the cylinder to the mandrel channel and an actuating assembly; where the actuating assembly is operative to displace the piston shaft in the cylinder to prevent fluid communication between the chemical flow line and the mandrel channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Zhi Yong He, Jorge Arreola
  • Patent number: 9206772
    Abstract: A Natural Vacuum Leak Detection (NVLD) device having an articulated poppet to allow the sealing surface of the poppet portion to articulate, or wobble, on the end of a poppet pin, where the poppet pin is mounted to the end of the flange portion. The flange portion has the friction spring, and poppet spring pushing on it. The seal surface of the flange portion is able to move to evenly apply force to the lip seal, and provide a full seal. Because the seal surface of the flange portion is able to articulate, or wobble, the flange portion is able to compensate for misalignment between the poppet stem portion and lip seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: David William Balsdon, Kris Smith, Peter Hueniken
  • Patent number: 9138352
    Abstract: An earplug includes a body, insertable into an ear canal, where the body defines a channel having at least two ends. The channel can house a movable structure configured to allow passage of sound around the movable structure in a rest position, and to block at least a portion of the channel in a deflected position. The movable structure moves from the rest position to the deflected position based on receiving, at one of the at least two ends of the channel, a pressure wave having at least a threshold amplitude pressure to block at least a portion of the pressure wave from reaching the other end of the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventor: Daniel H. Simon
  • Patent number: 9016301
    Abstract: A conduit protection system, comprising: a conduit for carrying a fluid; a sealed vessel surrounding the conduit along a protected zone of the conduit; and a valve moveable between a first position for obstructing fluid flow through the protected zone of the conduit and a second position for enabling fluid flow through the protected zone of the conduit, wherein the valve is biased to the first position, and wherein the valve is fluidically coupled to the sealed vessel such that a positive pressure within the sealed vessel is operable to move the valve to the second position against the bias. Also, a method for protecting a fluid carrying conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Airbus Operations Limited
    Inventors: Franklin Tichborne, Joseph K-W Lam, Simon Masters, David Parmenter
  • Patent number: 8985207
    Abstract: A completion assembly is run downhole into a well. The assembly includes a valve and a material that is adapted to initially configure the valve to prevent fluid flow through the valve in at least one direction. The technique includes performing a downhole completion operation in the well and disintegrating the material to allow the prevented fluid flow through a nozzle of the valve. The nozzle is used to regulate production or injection in the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Tage Thorkildsen, Timo Jokela, Pavel Petukhov, Marius Destad, Edvin Eimstad Riisem
  • Patent number: 8833672
    Abstract: An irrigation sprinkler is provided having a nozzle and a flow control device for reducing fluid flow through the sprinkler when the nozzle is removed, such as might occur due to vandalism. The flow control device is coupled to the nozzle and is moveable between a first irrigating position and a second signaling position. In the first position, the sprinkler discharges fluid for irrigation. In the second position, the sprinkler discharges a reduced amount of fluid and signals that the nozzle has been removed and should be replaced. The flow control device also allows sufficient fluid flow for flushing debris out of the sprinkler when a flush cap is mounted to the sprinkler, instead of the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Skripkar, Krishnadidya G. Arkalgud, Gregory S. Palumbo
  • Patent number: 8671968
    Abstract: A device is described for combined fluid replacement and pressure testing in pipes with inaccessible end points. The device is characterized in that it is a two-piece circulation valve structure comprising: a first valve unit (4) comprising a seal element (1) which closes and opens depending on the dynamic fluid pressure through the valve, and a second valve unit (6) arranged to permanently close off the fluid flow when the pressure testing terminates. The first valve unit (4) comprises an elastic sealing ring (1) arranged to close against a seat in the valve unit in step with an increase in the fluid flow velocity through the valve, while the second valve unit is a casing (6) which is arranged inside the valve an closes when a pressure differential arises between a chamber (7) and the inside of the valve (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: TCO AS
    Inventor: Viggo Brandsdal
  • 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: 8616230
    Abstract: A dual acting multi actuation gate valve is provided that includes a secondary actuation mechanism. The valve may include a body, a shaft, a movable portion disposed within the body and coupled to the shaft, wherein the movable portion is configured to allow fluid flow through the valve when in a first position and to prevent fluid flow through the valve when in a second position. The valve includes an actuator coupled to the shaft, wherein the actuator is configured to move the movable portion between the first position and the second position, a mechanical connection between the actuator and the shaft, wherein the mechanical connection is configured to fail in response to an internal pressure, wherein the failure of the mechanical connection maintains the movable portion in the second position. A method of operation and testing the valve are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventor: David Studer
  • Patent number: 8573244
    Abstract: A relief valve assembly to relieve overpressure of a pressurized fluid. In accordance with some embodiments, the assembly comprises a housing with an inlet and an outlet to form a conduit for a pressurized fluid. A normally closed valve member is axially displaceable within the housing to engage a valve seat to prevent a flow of the pressurized fluid along the conduit. A biasing member applies a bias force to the valve member to retain the valve member against the valve seat. A piston within the valve member contactingly engages the pressurized fluid. A mechanically collapsible member resists axial movement of the piston responsive to said contacting engagement of the pressurized fluid. The piston and collapsible member decouple the bias force supplied by the biasing spring member upon the valve member from a force upon the valve member applied by the pressurized fluid, thereby maintaining a bubble-tight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Taylor Innovations, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Julian S. Taylor
  • Patent number: 8550104
    Abstract: A pressure control system for controlling pressure in a tank is provided. The pressure control system includes a pressure relief valve and a rupture disc subassembly. The pressure relief valve is connected to the tank. The rupture disc subassembly is located between the pressure relief valve and the tank and is connected to the tank. The pressure relief valve is connected such that removal of the pressure relief valve does not affect the connection of the rupture disc subassembly to the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Mario Nunez, Krzysztof A. Panklewicz
  • Patent number: 8534308
    Abstract: A pressure control system for controlling pressure in a tank is provided. The pressure control system includes a base plate, a pressure relief valve, a rupture disc, a first connector and a second connector. The base plate includes a tank side and a valve side. The pressure relief valve includes a body and a connection portion for coupling the pressure relief valve to the base plate adjacent the valve side. The rupture disc is positioned between the pressure relief valve and the base plate. The first connector extends between the base plate and the pressure relief valve to secure the pressure relief valve to the base plate and secure the rupture disc. The second connector is positioned for securing the base plate to the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation
    Inventor: Mario Nunez
  • Patent number: 8496021
    Abstract: An aircraft includes an overpressure valve with a sealing member which is moveable, in response to a first pressure differential across the valve, between a closed position and an open position. The overpressure valve further has a frangible portion, for example, a carbon or sheet metal disc. The frangible portion is arranged to fail in response to a second pressure differential across the valve, the second pressure differential being more than the first pressure differential. Thus the valve is still able to relieve pressure when the sealing member is jammed (due to ice, for example). The valve may be in the surge tank of a fuel tank system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations Limited
    Inventor: J. Patrick Sandiford
  • Publication number: 20120319857
    Abstract: A sensor for sensing the integrity of a pressure relief device, along with associated systems and methods, are disclosed. The sensor may sense a designed area of weakness of a pressure relief device, such as an explosion vent or rupture disk. A monitor may monitor a signal from the sensor, which may be transmitted between the sensor and monitor by way of a sensor loop. In response to a change in the designed area of weakness, the signal from the sensor may be altered or interrupted, indicating that the designed area of weakness has changed. The signal from the sensor may be, for example, an electrical signal, optical signal, or an air flow in a pneumatic loop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventors: Geof Brazier, John Tomasko, Liam Fitzgerald, Stephen Farwell, Hughie Leahy
  • Patent number: 8082941
    Abstract: A flow activated valve includes an outer body and a piston disposed in an inner cavity of the outer body. The flow activated valve also includes one or more fluid passage exits in the outer body and one or more piston fluid passages in the piston. The one or more fluid passage exits and the one or more piston fluid passages allow fluid flow out of the valve. The flow activated valve also includes a flow restriction member disposed in a piston inner cavity. In addition, the flow activated valve includes a shear member disposed in the outer body, and a bias member disposed in an inner cavity of the outer body. The flow activated valve further includes a position control member disposed in the piston and a sealing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Mohawk Energy Ltd.
    Inventors: Alessandro O. Caccialupi, Andrei G. Filippov
  • Patent number: 7971804
    Abstract: A channeled shaft check valve assembly includes a conduit with an internal valve seat with a central opening. An actuating member is contained inside the conduit between an outlet fixture and the valve seat. A valve member mounted within the sleeve includes a disc on the opposite side of the valve seat from the outlet end of the conduit and a channeled shaft extending outward from the center of the disc and through the central opening in the internal valve seat. The opposite end of the channeled shaft may also have a disc mounted thereto, allowing for a three position valve. The valve is urged closed under pressure unless an outlet fixture urges the valve open allowing fluid flow along the channeled shaft and through the central opening in the valve seat. In a two disc valve member, the valve may have two closed positions and one open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: James C. Roberts
  • Patent number: 7874309
    Abstract: The invention relates to a compressor, particularly for air conditioners in motor vehicles, comprising a safety device for limiting high pressure, whereby the safety device is hermetically sealed until first responding, after which it slowly reduces the system pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Luk Fahrzeug-Hydraulik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Tilo Schaefer, Georg Weber, Thomas Di Vito, Jan Hinrichs, Uwe Becker, Willi Parsch, Bjoern Fagerli
  • Patent number: 7798893
    Abstract: Explosion vent apparatus is provided, which includes a vent support unit defining a vent opening adapted to be aligned with an area to be protected from an overpressure condition, a vent panel movably mounted on the support unit in a normal closed position blocking the outlet and movable through a first displacement away from its closed position to a first overpressure-relieving position upon application of an overpressure of one magnitude of pressure while allowing movement of the vent panel through a second and greater displacement to a second overpressure-relieving position upon application of a higher overpressure. The vent panel does not deform or rupture upon opening, and recloses after pressure relief, either under spring pressure when opened under a lower first pressure, or by a fluid actuated reclosing mechanism upon full opening of the vent panel under a higher second pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Fike Corporation
    Inventors: Tom Eijkelenberg, Guido Dom
  • Patent number: 7798165
    Abstract: In various embodiments, the present invention includes a rupture control system comprising an inner hose, an outer hose, and a valve that is actuated by fluid leaking from the inner hose. The inner hose and the outer hose define a containment passageway therebetween, and the valve includes an inlet, an outlet, a passageway extending between the inlet and the outlet, a valve member readily movable between a first position and a second position, and a valve control chamber. In these embodiments, a rupture in the inner hose places the inner hose in fluid communication with the containment passageway and the valve control chamber, and fluid flowing into the valve control chamber moves the valve member from its first position into its second position, the valve member at least partially blocking the valve passageway in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventor: Oather A McClung, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7703472
    Abstract: A gas flow isolation device includes a gas flow isolation valve movable from an opened condition to a closed condition. The module isolation valve in one embodiment includes a rupture disk in flow communication with a flow of gas when the module isolation valve is in an opened condition. The rupture disk ruptures when a predetermined pressure differential occurs across it causing the isolation valve to close. In one embodiment the valve is mechanically linked to the rupture disk to maintain the valve in an opened condition when the rupture disk is intact, and which permits the valve to move into a closed condition when the rupture disk ruptures. In another embodiment a crushable member maintains the valve in an open condition, and the flow of gas passed the valve upon rupturing of the rupture disk compresses the crushable member to close the isolation valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Francis Carolan, John Albert Cooke, Michael David Buzinski
  • Patent number: 7686235
    Abstract: A check valve assembly has a valve seat for positioning in a passageway between a water supply and an outlet device such as a sprinkler head or a pipe section. A disc valve is located on the water supply side of the valve seat, and a separate actuator is movably mounted on the opposite side of the seat for movement between an operative position extending through the valve seat to hold the valve in the open position, and an inoperative, retracted position. The disc valve is moved by the actuator into the open position when the sprinkler head is located at the outlet. Release or removal of the actuator as a result of removal of the sprinkler head or other outlet device will allow fluid pressure at the fluid supply end of the passageway to urge the valve into the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventor: James C. Roberts
  • Patent number: 7635004
    Abstract: A housing has a passageway containing a valve seat. A valve element seals against the valve seat to maintain the valve in the closed position. A release rod extends from the valve body and a shell surrounds the release rod, preventing its movement. The shell is formed in several sections, maintained together by a wire. The wire is connected to a frangible initiator which, upon failure, releases the wire from the shell, allowing these sections to move away from one another. When this occurs, the release rod and valve body are able to move, opening the valve, allowing fluid flow between the inlet and outlet of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Inventors: Edward Rudoy, Edwin E. Vega
  • Patent number: 7516751
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid flow prevention apparatus for a wet barrel fire hydrant which is simple and inexpensive to install and effectively cuts off water flow while reducing water hammer. The fluid flow apparatus includes an in-line or non-hinged valve member for closing a flow passageway connected to the hydrant that is operably movable from an open to closed position upon damage to the hydrant. An adjustable damping member controls the rate of closing of the valve member to reduce the effects of water hammer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: James Jones Company
    Inventors: Leo W. Fleury, Jr., John C. McCreary
  • Publication number: 20080190353
    Abstract: The present invention concerns those elements that, by means of valves, allow the balance of forces acting upon the walls of a hermetic container during its sinking in a liquid, thus preventing the stress produced due to the effect from an increased volume of liquid applied on the external face of the container. It also prevents spillage of the content into the surrounding environment through the said elements and is provided with the means to equally balance the forces cited during eventual re-floatation of the aforementioned container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventor: Ignacio Borras Llompant
  • Publication number: 20080066806
    Abstract: A pneumatic safety valve prevents dangerously rapid outflow of pressurized air in the event that an air hose ruptures or a pneumatic tool is accidentally decoupled from the hose downstream of the valve. The valve has an internal air conduit in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet ports. The air conduit cooperates with a pivotal flap that selectively closes to prevent a sudden discharge of air in the event of a hose rupture or an accidental decoupling of the pneumatic tool from the hose. By containing the highly pressurized air and preventing the air from rapid discharge, the valve prevents the air hose from flailing or whipping violently, thus eliminating the physical dangers to operators and other personnel in the vicinity of the rupture. This simple and inexpensive valve ensures safe containment of hose ruptures or of accidental disconnections of the pneumatic tool from the high-pressure hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Inventor: Wilfred Huet
  • Patent number: 7318556
    Abstract: A safety valve for a lawn sprinkler system having at least one subterranean flow line and at least one head for spraying irrigation water. The valve includes a tubular member connected between the flow line and the head. The tubular member has an axial passage therethrough for the flow of water from the flow line to the head. A seat is located within the passage. A ball is located in the passage upstream of the seat. The ball is axially movable from an open position upstream of the seat to a closed position in engagement with the seat if the water flowing through passage reaches a selected flow rate. A coiled spring in the passage is in engagement with the ball for urging the ball toward the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Inventors: Charles A. Lee, Fredrick J. Arnato
  • Patent number: 7293721
    Abstract: A check valve assembly has a coupling sleeve with a first end for connection to a pop-up or fixed sprinkler head and a second end for connection to a water supply, the coupling sleeve incorporating a valve seat. A disc valve is retained below the valve seat, and a separate actuator is movably mounted above the seat for movement between an operative position extending through the valve seat to hold the valve in the open position, and an inoperative, retracted position. The disc valve is retained against the valve seat around its peripheral edge, and has a central portion which is moved by the actuator into the open position when the sprinkler head is properly connected to the coupling sleeve. Release or removal of the actuator as a result of removal of the sprinkler head will allow fluid pressure at the second end of the coupling sleeve to urge the valve into the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: James C Roberts
  • Patent number: 7270140
    Abstract: A poppet valve assembly is sized and constructed for insertion into the lower portion of a flow control valve used within the opening of a cylinder for storing a compressed gas. When the flow control valve is removed, the normally open poppet valve assembly of the present invention is closed by escaping pressure of the compressed gas. The pressure of the compressed gas causes seals to be formed within the poppet valve assembly of the present invention between the exterior of a substantially hollow movable seat plug and the interior of a substantially tubular valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Inventors: Steven K. Aderholt, Dennis Hatfield, Franklin B. Piehl
  • Patent number: 7267136
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid flow prevention apparatus for a wet barrel fire hydrant which is simple and inexpensive to install and effectively cuts off water flow while reducing water hammer. The fluid flow apparatus includes an in-line valve member for closing a flow passageway connected to the hydrant that is operably movable from an open to closed position upon damage to the hydrant. An adjustable damping member controls the rate of closing of the valve member to reduce the effects of water hammer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: James Jones Company
    Inventors: Leo W. Fleury, Jr., John C. McCreary
  • Patent number: 7209806
    Abstract: The invention is a self-contained process shutdown device that detects abnormal pressures and initiates shutdown by removing the pneumatic or hydraulic pressure needed for a given process or flow to continue. The process' pressure is detected by means of a switch-gauge (a pressure gauge with high and low alarm electrical contacts) which has a pressure sensing port connected to the monitored pressure. The contacts from the switch-gauge are connected to an electronic logic circuit that sends one or more shutdown pulses to trip a pulse driven solenoid and initiate the shutdown. This device provides indicator lamps to show statuses and alarms as well as switch or pushbuttons to activate the “Reset” and “Test” functions. The electrical power is supplied by a power module that is constituted of battery cells connected in such way that it provides a dual voltage output to feed the electronic logic separate from the pulse driven solenoid driver circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Miguel A. Timm
  • Patent number: 7156119
    Abstract: A hydrant knock-off combination flow stop valve and backflow check valve, mountable between water system riser and a wet-type hydrant having a breakaway flange ring. The vertical valve has a bulbous, cylindrical outer wall having an upper flange connecting to a wet-type hydrant by a break ring and a lower flange connecting to a system riser pipe. One embodiment has radial vertical vanes defining a central cylinder coaxial with the valve and acting as guides for a movable valve element to travel vertically up and down. The lower flange a seat, acting as a check valve with the valve element. The valve has a restraining cage keeping the valve element from engaging an upper seat. Once the break ring is ruptured the valve element seals against the seat, stopping water flow. The preferred valve element is a plastic coated ball. Another embodiment has a double mushroom, spring loaded valve element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Inventor: Erling A. Freudendahl
  • Patent number: 7152617
    Abstract: A safety valve assembly for use with a global manual valve which is installed on a high pressure cylinder or container. The safety valve assembly has a main body that is threaded into the lower bore of the global manual valve. A poppet valve slides into the bore of the main body and is restrained by a valve seat. An end cap is then threaded into the lower end of the main body to keep the poppet valve inside. The poppet valve has longitudinal flutes formed on the surface for regulated passage of gases and fluids. The poppet valve also has a cone on the upper end, which can have bleeder veins inscribed on its surface. When activated, the poppet valve prevents the uncontrolled release of high pressure out of the cylinder. Thereafter, the bleeder veins permit the release of small amounts of high pressure until the cylinder is exhausted to a safe level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Randal Wade Crawford
  • Patent number: 7128083
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid flow prevention apparatus for a wet barrel fire hydrant which is simple and inexpensive to install and effectively cuts off water flow while reducing water hammer. The fluid flow apparatus includes an in-line valve member for closing a flow passageway connected to the hydrant that is operably movable from an open to closed position upon damage to the hydrant. An adjustable damping member controls the rate of closing of the valve member to reduce the effects of water hammer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: James Jones Company
    Inventors: Leo W. Fleury, Jr., John C. McCreary
  • Patent number: 7124770
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mechanism for preventing damage to the actuator of a hydraulic choke valve in the event of excessive backpressure on the outlet of the choke. The backpressure relief device is applicable to a choke valve which meters flow from a high pressure annular region around the axially reciprocable choke throttling member into a low pressure exit channel coaxial with the throttling member. In particular, a shearable means is used to connect the reciprocable control shank of the actuator to the throttling valve member of the choke valve. In the event of excessive pressure on the exit channel of the choke valve, the shearable means will shear, thereby fully opening the valve and permitting the excessive pressure to escape. The shearable means is readily replaced so that the valve easily can be put back into operating condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Power Well Services, L.P.
    Inventors: Robert F. Schmidt, David A. Schmidt, John W. McCaskill
  • Patent number: 7066193
    Abstract: A springless shear protection device for use with a valve, the device comprising a poppet, the poppet including a bore. The poppet including first and second openings at distal ends of the poppet. A seat plug is disposed in the poppet bore, the seat plug is moveable within the poppet bore. A shear tube with first and second ends extending through the first opening of the poppet, the first end abutting the seat plug through the first opening of the poppet and the shear tube displacing the seat plug from the top of the poppet bore. The poppet is attachable to the valve and when attached a compressed gas or liquid passes through the poppet into the valve. When the shear tube is removed, the seat plug forcibly engages the top of the poppet bore and the seat plug blocks the flow of the compressed gas or liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventors: Steven K. Aderholt, Franklin B. Piehl, Dennis C. Hatfield
  • Patent number: 7004189
    Abstract: A connector in a network of lubrication pipes is provided with a valve that automatically closes off the connector whenever one of the pipes is withdrawn following an incident. Lubricant leaks are thus avoided. The valve plug is cylindrical-conical and it is fitted with a needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: SNECMA Moteurs
    Inventors: Bertrand Heurtel, Guillaume Sevi, Michel Hugues
  • Publication number: 20040261843
    Abstract: A poppet valve assembly is sized and constructed for insertion into the lower portion of a flow control valve used within the opening of a cylinder for storing a compressed gas. When the flow control valve is removed, the normally open poppet valve assembly of the present invention is closed by escaping pressure of the compressed gas. The pressure of the compressed gas causes seals to be formed within the poppet valve assembly of the present invention between the exterior of a substantially hollow movable seat plug and the interior of a substantially tubular valve body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Steven K. Aderholt, Dennis Hatfield, Franklin B. Piehl
  • Publication number: 20040226604
    Abstract: A shear protection device for use with a valve, the device comprising a poppet, the poppet including a bore. The poppet including first and second openings at distal ends of the poppet. A seat plug is disposed in the poppet bore, the seat plug is moveable within the poppet bore. A shear tube with first and second ends extending through the first opening of the poppet, the first end abutting the seat plug through the first opening of the poppet and the shear tube displacing the seat plug from the top of the poppet bore. The poppet is attachable to the valve and when attached a gas or liquid passes through the poppet into the valve. When the shear tube is removed, the seat plug forcibly engages the top of the poppet bore and the seat plug blocks the flow of the gas or liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: Steven K. Aderholt, Franklin B. Piehl, Dennis C. Hatfield
  • Patent number: 6802332
    Abstract: A shear valve for use in a fuel delivery system includes a valve body wherein a first end is adapted to be connected to a fuel inlet, and a second oppositely-disposed end is adapted to be connected to a fuel outlet. The valve body is provided with a readily frangible or separable region between the first and second ends. The first end has an emergency shut-off valve biased towards a closed position, and is normally held open by a displaceable abutment having one ball or roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Risbridger Limited
    Inventor: Graham M. Stuart