Abstract: According to an embodiment, a hydrogen fueling system based on real-time communication of a compressed hydrogen storage system (CHSS) for a fuel cell comprises a CHSS including a hydrogen tank and a hydrogen tank valve, a dispenser including a dispenser controller receiving sensing data including a pressure and temperature inside the hydrogen tank and a hydrogen supply unit supplying hydrogen to an inside of the hydrogen tank based on the sensing data, and a data hydrogen moving device including a CHSS controller converting the sensing data into data for wireless communication and outputting the data, a wireless communication unit provided for wireless communication between the CHSS controller and the dispenser controller of the dispenser, and a receptacle transferring hydrogen from the hydrogen supply unit to the hydrogen tank valve.

Abstract: Methods are devices are provided for preventing fracture of a fluid-filled chamber or tank. In general an anti-fracture expansion device can be disposed internally within a fluid-filled chamber such that during a freeze event displaced fluid can compress or flow into the anti-fracture expansion device, thereby reducing the likelihood that the chamber will rupture. The internal disposition of the expansion device prevents it from interfering with other components that may be connected to or adjacent to the fluid chamber, thereby conserving space. In certain embodiments, the expansion device can have a dual function wherein it can act as a flow control valve in addition to functioning as an anti-fracture expansion device.

Abstract: A plug monitoring device configured to monitor a plug to be received by an aperture of a pipe is provided. The plug monitoring device may include: a sensor having an output, wherein the sensor is configured to produce at the output a first signal when a plug is tightly installed in the aperture and a second signal at the output when the plug is not tightly installed in the aperture; and circuitry, comprising a transmitter, coupled to the output of the sensor, wherein the circuitry is configured to transmit a signal comprising status information selectively based on a signal at the output of the sensor.

Abstract: A drilling choke is controlled in a controlled pressure system. Pressure and position of the drilling choke are monitored. An adjustment to the position of the choke is determined based on the monitored pressure to control the drilling pressures. An actuation is produced of an actuator operably coupled to the choke to implement the determined adjustment. Rather than directly transferring, the actuation of the actuator is transferred with a transfer mechanism to motion of the choke in a non-linear relationship relative to the position of the choke. Generally, motion of the choke's internal trim (e.g., gate, ball, flapper, disc, etc.) is made quicker when near a fully opened position and is made slower when near a fully closed position. This reduces the need for strict precision for the motion. In the end, the monitored pressure is altered in response to the implemented choke adjustment.

Abstract: Methods and systems for using a cooling apparatus comprising an elastocaloric material to reduce the temperature of downhole packages in a subterranean formation are provided herein. In one or more embodiments, the methods of the present disclosure comprise: disposing a downhole package in a wellbore penetrating a portion of a subterranean formation; and disposing a cooling apparatus comprising an elastocaloric material and at least one actuator downhole in the wellbore, wherein the cooling apparatus is adjacent to the downhole package. In one or more embodiments, the systems of the present disclosure comprise: a downhole package having a temperature; and a cooling apparatus coupled to the downhole package, wherein the cooling apparatus comprises an elastocaloric material coupled to at least one actuator, wherein the cooling apparatus is configured to reduce the temperature of the downhole package.

Abstract: The present invention provides an electronic plumbing fixture fitting, such as an electronic faucet, that includes an electronic valve, a mechanical valve, and a flow switch. The flow switch is used to determine if the mechanical valve is activated. The determination whether the mechanical valve is activated can be used to control the electronic valve.

Abstract: An illustrative damper system includes a damper blade that is configured to be positioned within a duct, such as a bypass duct of an HVAC system. A shaft is in communication with the damper blade, and an actuator or force adjustment mechanism is in communication with the shaft. The actuator or force adjustment mechanism may include a housing and a spring therein, where the spring is in communication with the shaft. The shaft, the damper blade, and the spring may be configured such that the shaft may affect movement of the damper blade about a rotation axis offset from a diametrical axis of the damper blade.

Abstract: Methods are devices are provided for preventing fracture of a fluid-filled chamber or tank. In general an anti-fracture expansion device can be disposed internally within a fluid-filled chamber such that during a freeze event displaced fluid can compress or flow into the anti-fracture expansion device, thereby reducing the likelihood that the chamber will rupture. The internal disposition of the expansion device prevents it from interfering with other components that may be connected to or adjacent to the fluid chamber, thereby conserving space. In certain embodiments, the expansion device can have a dual function wherein it can act as a flow control valve in addition to functioning as an anti-fracture expansion device.

Abstract: Systems and methods for preventing freeze damage to heating system pipes are provided. In some embodiments, systems for preventing freeze damage to heating system pipes that carry a liquid used to heat a heated space and that are exposed to freezing temperatures outside of the heated space are provided, the systems comprising: a hardware controller that causes the liquid to be circulated through the heating system pipes irrespective of the air temperature in the heated space.

Abstract: A technique provides protection against unwanted conditions in wellhead structures and other structures. According to the technique, a system provides a feed through in a wellhead structure or other type of structure. The feed through may accommodate a communication line routed therethrough. A closing device is positioned in the structure at a location to enable closing of the feed through via the closing device. Additionally, a condition-sensitive device is operatively engaged with the closing device to initiate actuation of the closing device once the condition-sensitive device is exposed to a predetermined condition. Upon exposure to the predetermined condition, the condition-sensitive device initiates closing of the feed through via the closing device.

Abstract: An adaptive dosing system having a control module, a flow sensor unidirectionally connected to the control module for reporting a volume of a fluid passed through the system, a pump for dosing a required volume of the fluid and being uni-directionally connected to and controlled by the control module and a communication module bi-directionally connected with the control module, the communication module being configured to connect via Internet with an application server and a database server.

Abstract: An illustrative damper system includes a damper blade that is configured to be positioned within a duct, such as a bypass duct of an HVAC system. A shaft is in communication with the damper blade, and an actuator or force adjustment mechanism is in communication with the shaft. The actuator or force adjustment mechanism may include a housing and a spring therein, where the spring is in communication with the shaft. The shaft, the damper blade, and the spring may be configured such that the shaft may affect movement of the damper blade about a rotation axis offset from a diametrical axis of the damper blade.

Abstract: The invention relates to an air-conditioning system with a redundant feed of supply air comprising at least one pack which is supplied with air, with at least one valve being arranged in the feed for the air flow control. In accordance with the invention, an electrical flow control valve and a pneumatic flow control valve are arranged in parallel connection in front of the pack for the air flow control.

Abstract: A controllable emitter of an irrigation apparatus including a drip line and a control station configured to control a pressure of pressurized fluid in the drip line is provided. The controllable emitter is disposable along the drip line and includes a container coupled to the drip line, the container being formed to define an interior and including an inlet through which the pressurized fluid is receivable in the interior from the drip line and an outlet through which the pressurized fluid is exhaustible from the interior, a piston, including a magnetic element, disposed at least partially in the container to occupy a position in accordance with the pressure of the pressurized fluid and a sensor configured to sense a position of the magnetic element and to communicate a sensed position to the control station.

Abstract: A plumbing freeze protection system comprises a fluid connection between a water supply line and a waste line. The fluid connection bypasses a plumbing fixture fluidly connected to the water supply line. A valve operable with the fluid connection alternately prevents water flow from the water supply line to the waste line, and allows water flow from the water supply line to the waste line within about 25 percent of maximum volumetric flow rate of the water supply line through the fluid connection. A timer is adapted to control the valve. The valve is open for a predetermined time period to deliver a short duration, high volumetric flow rate of water to the waste line to minimize ice formation in, and remove existing ice from, the water supply and waste lines.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems and methods for automating the operation of a solenoid valve to prevent overheating of solenoid elements. The solenoid valve controls the flow of a fluid, such as gas, and may be automatically interrupted, or shut-off, of power upon the occurrence of fluctuating currents or other events. Once the problem has been removed or repaired, the flow of fluid through the solenoid valve may resume.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to an acoustically actuated flow valve having temperature-sensitive reed valves thereon. The flow valve and reed valves are configured to impart acoustical energy into a fluid flowing through the flow valve and one or more fluids downstream of the valve, leading to increased mixing of the fluids. The reed valves are further configured to be temperature-sensitive, thereby allowing more fluid to flow through the flow valve as the result of a change in temperature.

Abstract: A valve and actuator assembly includes a valve to control a flow of liquid into a coil, and an actuator to control the valve. The assembly includes a first temperature sensor to sense the temperature of liquid flowing through the valve, a second temperature sensor to sense the temperature of air surrounding the coil, and a flow meter to measure a flow rate of liquid through the valve. The actuator includes a module that receives data from the first and second temperature sensors and from the flow meter, and determines, based on data received from the flow meter and temperature sensors, a likelihood that the liquid in the coil will freeze. The actuator operates the valve to allow a minimum flow of the liquid through the valve and coil during a potential freeze condition. The minimum flow is sufficient to prevent the liquid in the coil from freezing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to periodically inspect and control piston movability are provided that can include using a contactless sensor system through a gas outlet port of a pressure relief device. By moving a stop, relative movement of the piston can be compared to the fixed body reflecting a movability or a blocking of the release piston. Inductive/magnetic or optical borescope sensors can detect piston movement through the gas outlet, for example. The activation function where the piston must move when activated can therefore be tested and maintained.

Abstract: The various embodiments herein disclose a system and a method for regulating a flow of fluid stream in fluid storage and dispensing systems. The system comprising a valve arrangement including a compressed air unit bloated by a connecting air inlet tube, a frame and a valve elevating means to mount the valve arrangement on the frame, several sensors to detect one crisis factor, a communication unit, a data logger and processing unit, a remote management system and several actuators to regulate the operation of the valve arrangement. The valve arrangement shuts down the outflow of fluid stream on receiving a valve shutdown signal from one of the sensors and data processing unit in case of a crisis detection. The data processing unit informs the remote management system to take adequate safety measures through the communication unit.

Abstract: A gas safety device is provided. An electronic valve connected to a thermocouple is closed to cut off the gas supply when the temperature of radiant heat directly emitted from a surface of a vessel exceeds a preset temperature level while the vessel is heated through the spark ignition of a burner, thereby preventing risks of overheating and thus fire caused due to a user's carelessness when the user cooks the food.

Abstract: A tank system includes a high-pressure tank, a detection unit for detecting a temperature increase in at least a portion of the high-pressure tank, a decompression unit for decompressing the high-pressure tank, and a control unit for controlling the decompression unit to decompress the high-pressure tank when a temperature increase in at least a part of the high-pressure tank is detected by the detection unit.

Abstract: A valve system includes a fusible plug valve that functions as a fusible plug valve and as a manual valve. When functioning as a fusible plug valve, the fusible plug valve opens at a high temperature to release gas from a high pressure tank to outside. When functioning as a manual valve, the fusible plug valve is opened manually to release the gas from the high pressure tank to the outside.

Abstract: A high pressure gas discharge valve for a fire-extinguishing or explosion-preventing system including: a valve body with a gas inlet channel and a gas outlet channel; a valve seat arranged between the channels; and a triggering chamber; a closing piston which is slidably movable within the valve body and has a first end portion forming a pressure surface in the triggering chamber, a second end portion forming a sealing surface, with which it can be sealingly pressed against the valve seat, and a pressure compensation channel via which the triggering chamber communicates with the inlet channel when the closing piston rests on the valve seat; a triggering port in communication with the triggering chamber, for connecting thereto a low pressure triggering device that is capable of generating a pressure drop in the triggering chamber; and a pressure-reducing valve for reducing a pressure of high pressure gas to a reduced pressure suitable for the low pressure triggering device.

Abstract: A plumbing system operable to automatically introduce antifreeze into the hot and cold water systems responsive to a signal from a controller. The controller activates the system automatically at a predetermined ambient temperature. The system can also be reconfigured manually.

Abstract: A safety valve for a fluid circuit under pressure (P), the valve comprising a body (2), a piston (3) able to move with respect to the body between a closed position and a purge position. A thermally deformable element (5) acts to cause the piston to move from the closed position to the purge position above and beyond a purge temperature so as to connect the circuit to a discharge duct (16). The valve further comprises an overpressure relief device sensitive to the pressure of the fluid and configured to connect the circuit to the discharge duct when the pressure (P) of the circuit reaches a trip pressure.

Abstract: An improved thermal relief vent for a fuel tank, and a method of manufacturing the same, includes a thermal relief ring that is used to create a mechanical seal within the vent. The thermal relief ring, at room temperature, is crimped in place by use of the vent cap itself. The crimped thermal relief ring creates a mechanical seal between the vent and the vent cap, up until a predetermined thermal relief point, at which time the thermal relief ring will soften and/or yield and release the vent cap from the vent body.

Abstract: A mixing and pumping module for use with an installed hydronic radiant floor heating system is described. The module comprises a primary loop for circulating water to and from a boiler; a secondary loop in valve fluid communication with said primary loop and with the manifold of a hydronic radiant floor heating system, for circulating water into and out of the manifold; and means for regulating the flows of water through the primary loop, secondary loop and manifold loop, for selective delivery of heating capacities over a wide range of heating requirements, in a configuration which is compact and readily mounted to a frame for installation on a wall of the residence or commercial building in which the system is installed.

Abstract: A method for regulating temperature in an enclosure is disclosed. The method involves monitoring a component temperature inside the enclosure. When the component temperature reaches a threshold, the method injects a coolant into the enclosure. The method further involves regulating a flow rate of the coolant by actuating a miniature piezoelectric element to reduce the component temperature to a prescribed level.

Abstract: A non-electrically actuated ganged fire extinguisher system for use in an enclosure of a size larger than the capacity of a single pre-engineered fire extinguisher comprises at least two pre-engineered fire extinguishers positioned at spaced locations in the enclosure. An actuation valve is mounted on the outlet of each fire extinguisher. A fluid operated valve actuator for each valve retains the valve in a closed state when the actuator is pressurized and opens the valve when the actuator is depressurized. A vent line connects the valve actuators and provides fluid communication therebetween, such that the actuators are maintained at the same pressure state. At least one non-electrical temperature sensor is mounted in fluid communication with the vent line. The temperature sensor opens an outlet to the vent line and releases the pressure therein when the temperature in the vicinity of the sensor reaches a predetermined value indicative of a fire hazard.

Abstract: An automatic flushing system for a potable water station includes a conduit having a first end connected to a potable water supply source and a second end having a nozzle coupling. It also includes an air gap assembly having a coupling operable for coupling with the nozzle coupling to releasably connect the conduit to the air gap assembly in a stored position. Further, the system includes a control system operable for automatically flushing potable water through the conduit and the air gap assembly after exceeding a predetermined time in which a predetermined minimum threshold temperature is exceeded and a predetermined time during which the potable water station has remained idle. A method for automatically flushing a potable water station includes the step of providing the potable water station with a conduit having a first end connected to a potable water supply source and having a second end remote therefrom.

Abstract: A fire suppression system includes system piping and at least one sprinkler with the system piping for delivering fire suppressant to the sprinkler. The sprinkler has an outlet and a temperature sensitive trigger with temperature sensitive trigger opening the outlet for dispersing fire suppressant when sensing temperatures associated with a fire condition. The system also includes a deluge valve that is in selective fluid communication with the system piping and has a normally closed condition whereby the system piping is normally dry. The deluge valve controls the flow of suppressant to the system piping and the sprinkler. A control system, which is in communication with at least one source of power, opens the deluge valve in a fire condition when the power source is in a powered condition and opens the deluge valve in a loss of pressure condition when the power source is in a loss of power condition.

Abstract: An improved thermal relief vent for a fuel tank, and a method of manufacturing the same, includes a thermal relief ring that is used to create a mechanical seal within the vent. The thermal relief ring, at room temperature, is crimped in place by use of the vent cap itself. The crimped thermal relief ring creates a mechanical seal between the vent and the vent cap, up until a predetermined thermal relief point, at which time the thermal relief ring will soften and/or yield and release the vent cap from the vent body.

Abstract: A non-electrically actuated ganged fire extinguisher system for use in an enclosure of a size larger than the capacity of a single pre-engineered fire extinguisher comprises at least two pre-engineered fire extinguishers positioned at spaced locations in the enclosure. An actuation valve is mounted on the outlet of each fire extinguisher. A fluid operated valve actuator for each valve retains the valve in a closed state when the actuator is pressurized and opens the valve when the actuator is depressurized. A vent line connects the valve actuators and provides fluid communication therebetween, such that the actuators are maintained at the same pressure state. At least one non-electrical temperature sensor is mounted in fluid communication with the vent line. The temperature sensor opens an outlet to the vent line and releases the pressure therein when the temperature in the vicinity of the sensor reaches a predetermined value indicative of a fire hazard.

Abstract: The present invention provides an irrigation control system in which a device (irrigation scheduler) automatically modifies irrigation schedules of installed irrigation controllers to affect irrigating of the landscape based on the water requirements of the landscape plants and comprises: providing an irrigation controller programmed to execute irrigations on watering days by closing an electrical circuit connecting the controller and at least one irrigation valve; providing an irrigation scheduler programmed to execute irrigations on substantially equivalent watering days as the irrigation controller; and the irrigation scheduler selectively interrupting the electrical circuit to control the execution of irrigations on watering days. Preferably the microprocessor uses either an ETo value or weather data used in calculating the ETo value to at least partially derive the improved irrigation schedule.

Abstract: A liquid flow control valve has a valve body 10 in which is mounted a valve member 41 moveable between valve open and closed positions. A turbine 15 senses liquid flow through the valve body 10 and generates electrical pulses which are counted by a control circuit, over a pre-set period. An electro-magnet 54,55 controls operation of the valve member 41 and is driven by the control circuit so as to close the valve in the event that flow continues for longer than the pre-set period or the flow is greater than at a pre-set rate. The valve may also be closed should the temperature fall to about 0° C.

Abstract: The present invention provides an irrigation control system in which a device (irrigation scheduler) automatically modifies irrigation schedules of installed irrigation controllers to affect irrigating of the landscape based on the water requirements of the landscape plants and comprises: providing an irrigation controller programmed to execute irrigations on watering days by closing an electrical circuit connecting the controller and at least one irrigation valve; providing an irrigation scheduler programmed to execute irrigations on substantially equivalent watering days as the irrigation controller; and the irrigation scheduler selectively interrupting the electrical circuit to control the execution of irrigations on watering days. Preferably the microprocessor uses either an ETo value or weather data used in calculating the ETo value to at least partially derive the improved irrigation schedule.

Abstract: An automatic water freeze prevention device having a first valve, second valve and third valve that cooperate to fill or drain a water utilization device according to pre-selected temperature conditions. These three valves are driven to their respective open/closed positions by an electrical power sending device that is, in turn, actuated by a temperature setting device that is associated with a temperature sensing device.

Abstract: A damper assembly is provided having a fusible link assembly including an outer housing member and an inner channel member having side walls that are fused to the outer housing. A pair of damper arms are pivotally connected to a mounting bracket at a pivot location, and are supported by the fusible link assembly at a support location. The distance between the pivot location and support location is greater than ⅜ inch.

Abstract: A cartridge assembly for a valve is disclosed. The cartridge assembly includes a cartridge containing an activation component. The cartridge and activation component are configured to be replaceable as a unit. The activation component prevents the valve from either opening or closing until either a predetermined pressure is exerted on the valve or a predetermined temperature is experienced by the activation component. The cartridge may include any of a variety of activation component types, such as buckling pins, tensile pins, shear pins, springs, or fusible alloys, either individually or in combination to control the valve opening or closing.

Abstract: A fluid-activatable shut-off device, configured as a shut-off valve, has a valve housing formed with a flow passage therethrough and a movably supported valve body, which is movable between an open valve position and a closed valve position. In the open valve position, the valve body is mainly withdrawn from the flow passage, which is thereby essentially cleared. In the closed valve position, the valve body blocks the flow passage. The valve body is arranged to close the valve by abnormal flow conditions by a portion being formed so that the flowing fluid provides a lifting force which affects the valve body and seeks to move it towards the closed position. The valve body may thereby close by an abnormal increase in the fluid flow rate, density or viscosity. The portion may also be supported by an expansion pad arranged to push the lifting surface further into the flow passage as a consequence of changes in the fluid pressure and/or temperature, thereby providing increased lift so that the valve body closes.

Abstract: A fluid pressure and heat sensitive valve connected with a flow line includes a collapsible pin, normally maintaining the valve closed, which collapses to open the valve in response to fluid pressure above a predetermined limit and includes a fusible plug which melts in the event of a fire, releasing the pin to allow fluid pressure to open the valve.

Abstract: A fluid pressure and heat sensitive flow control valve interposed in a flow line includes a collapsible pin, normally maintaining the valve open, which collapses to close the valve in response to fluid pressure above a predetermined limit and includes a fusible plug which melts in event of a fire, releasing the pin to allow fluid pressure to close the valve.

Abstract: A device for preventing water line freeze damage. The device incorporates air temperature sensing means to control a trickle flow in a water system, so that a trickle flow is initiated whenever the ambient air temperature drops below a predetermined point. The trickle flow inhibits freezing in the water system.

Abstract: A system for regulating flow of fluid through a flow line, such as a supply line, the line having a flow controller such as a valve, the system having a sensor for generating a signal in response to a parameter, a transmitter for transmitting a corresponding signal to a receiver at a remote location, a receiver for receiving the signal from the transmitter, an actuator for operating a regulator in response to the signal received by the actuator for operating the valve or other flow regulator.

Abstract: A freeze protection plug has latching balls engageable bayonet-fashion with grooves in a fitting. The balls are normally held in engagement with the grooves by a cam, but move inward to release the plug from the fitting when the cam is moved by a thermal actuator carried by the plug. The balls are retained in tapered openings in the wall of the plug to reduce jamming. Helical ramps in the grooves permit the use of a strong, reliable plug ejecting spring, and make manual insertion of the plug easy. Insertion is aided by the ribs of a plastic cap, which facilitate manual grasping and rotation of the plug. A paint shield ring prevents failures resulting from paint bridges adhering both to the plug and to the fitting. A unitary molded lanyard with two oval loops prevents loss of the plug. The seal on the plug is located on the liquid system side of the latching balls and isolates moving parts from the liquid system, and is of small diameter.

Abstract: A control valve system. The system includes a microcontroller electronically connectable to the power supply of an electrical household appliance, such as a washing machine which is connected to the water piping system in a building via hoses. The microcontroller produces first and second electrical signals representing a presence and an absence of electron flow in the power supply. Solenoid valves are responsive to the signals for releasing fluid flow to the hoses responsive to the first electrical signal and blocking the fluid flow responsive to the second electrical signal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dispensing natural gas into the natural gas vehicle cylinder of a motor vehicle is disclosed. The natural gas dispensing system includes a pressure transducer and a temperature transducer for measuring the pressure and temperature, respectively, of the supply gas as it is passed toward a dispenser, a second pressure transducer for measuring the pressure within the natural gas vehicle cylinder, an ambient air temperature transducer for measuring ambient air temperatures at the dispensing site, and a mass flow meter for measuring the gas mass injected into the vehicle cylinder. Each transducer and the mass flow meter emits a data signal to a control processor which automatically dispenses compressed gas to the vehicle cylinder, as well as maximizing the amount of gas mass injected into the cylinder.

Abstract: A manifold valve assembly for use in a smoke/pollution detection system in which gas is drawn from a plurality of zones under surveillance and delivered to a smoke/pollution detector. The assembly has a manifold provided with a plurality of inlet ports communicating with the zones and an outlet communicating with the detector. A valve within the housing is reciprocable between a first position in which the outlet communicates with all of said inlet ports and a second position in which only one of said inlet ports communicates with the outlet. The valve is rotated incrementally in response to its reciprocation to enable each of the inlet ports to communicate with the outlet successively.

Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus for freeze prevention protecting an irrigation system. The response of the apparatus depends on environmental conditions. At a first temperature condition, the irrigation system is shut down. At a lower temperature condition, the system remains shut down and heat is delivered to the above ground portions of the system. In the event temperatures continue to decrease, a full drainage of the above ground portion of the irrigation system will be accomplished and alarm notification will be given.