With Electrical Actuation Patents (Class 137/870)
  • Patent number: 12005224
    Abstract: A method of controlling flow through a flexible tube includes providing a pinch clamp mechanism including a pinching element and a pinching surface configured to apply a force on the flexible tube when the flexible tube is positioned between the pinching element and the pinching surface. The method also includes displacing the pinching element relative to the pinching surface with a mechanical drive unit and biasing the pinching element toward the pinching surface with a spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2024
    Assignee: NxStage Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott W. Newell, Dennis M. Treu, Kenneth E. Buckler
  • Patent number: 11994314
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a damper used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. In an aspect, the damper may include a frame composed of at least two attached frame webs, each frame web comprising a C-shaped component. The damper may further include a damper blade removably attached to each compartment formed by the frame webs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2024
    Assignee: AIR DISTRIBUTION TECHNOLOGIES IP, LLC
    Inventors: Raguraman Gnanavadivel, Sathish Nagabooshanam, Vinothkumar Muthu, Sathish Palanisamy, John Bernard Haukap, Timothy Alan Lockard
  • Patent number: 11482756
    Abstract: A gas vent duct includes a lower case, an upper case, and a valve element. The valve element includes a shaft at its upper part and pivots on the shaft from a blocking position so that the gas vent pathway communicates with the outside of the vehicle compartment. The blocking position is a position in which the valve element blocks the ventilation pathway. The lower case includes a support supporting the shaft so that the valve element is pivotable. The support covers the shaft from above. A recess is defined by a portion of the inner surface of the upper case that is located above the support, the recess being recessed upward. When the recess and the support are seen from above, at least a part of the support is located within the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Hayashi, Isao Takahashi, Kentaro Adachi
  • Patent number: 11383020
    Abstract: Variables of a surgical system are detected or received via one or more sensors to predict an intraocular pressure (IOP) and/or determine an IOP in real time during a surgical procedure. A notification to a surgeon or a target IOP is set and maintained as determined by Static IOP, dynamic IOP, and/or a total IOP combining both static and dynamic IOP of the anterior chamber of a patient's eye. Information collected about various components of the system are displayed on a user interface. The system uses the collected information to calculate the static IOP and/or dynamic IOP of the system, and the total IOP may be function of the static IOP and/or dynamic IOP measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision, Inc.
    Inventors: Sandra H. Keh, Dung T. Ma, Deep Mehta
  • Patent number: 11160910
    Abstract: A surgical console has a receptacle for receiving a surgical fluidics cassette. The receptacle has a light source that transmits light to light pipes in the surgical fluidics cassette. The light pipes transmit light to a light transmissive optical interface surrounded by an opaque frame in the surgical fluidics cassette. The opaque frame is located at a fluid level detection system in the cassette. The system illuminates fluidic connectors on the surgical fluidics cassette without interfering with the fluid level detection system of a surgical console.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: Alcon Inc.
    Inventors: Sean Christopher Madden, Conrad Sawicz, Ryan Makoto Takakawa
  • Patent number: 11143321
    Abstract: A fluidic valve unit having a plurality of rotary slide valves arranged in series and a servo motor for setting the rotary slide valves, wherein each of the rotary slide valves comprises a rotary slide arranged in a rotary slide housing and drivable via a driveshaft by means of the servo motor. It is provided in this case that each two successive ones of the rotary slide valves are mechanically connected to one another via a driver device for the setting by means of the servo motor, wherein the driver device comprises a driver projection arranged on a first of the two rotary slide valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Assignee: AUDI AG
    Inventors: Sebastian Wawersig, Thomas Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 10428770
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a solenoid valve including: a valve body having an inlet through which a fluid is introduced, and a plurality of outlets through which the introduced fluid is discharged, and a variable switching device for discharging the fluid introduced from the inlet through a selected one of the outlets by a control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Assignee: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventor: Hyun Kim
  • Patent number: 10323481
    Abstract: A downhole valve includes a stationary sleeve for connection to a production string or a downhole tool, which includes one or more slots in the body of the stationary sleeve open to the interior of the stationary sleeve. A microcontroller is connected to a conducting cable and configured to control a flow of electrical power independently to a coil connected to an electrical power source at the surface. An inner sleeve is configured to fit within the stationary sleeve. The inner sleeve has an internal or external magnetized portion and one or more ports open to the interior of the inner sleeve. The sleeve is moveable within the stationary sleeve under power provided by a magnetic field generated by electrical current passing through the coil to align the ports with the slots to open the valve or to remove alignment of the ports with the slots to close the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Assignee: EXTENSIVE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES PARTNERSHIP
    Inventors: F. Dale Pratt, Kenneth A. Lambe
  • Patent number: 9962514
    Abstract: Described herein is a flow control valve for a ventilator that controls gas flow through a patient line in response to a target pressure within the line. The valve controls gas flow by (i) providing both a high frequency signal and a low frequency signal through a coil positioned in a fixed magnetic field, (ii) determining a position of the coil by detecting the high frequency signal, and (iii) controlling a position of the coil by adjusting the low frequency signal based on the determined position and/or velocity of the coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: VYAIRE MEDICAL CAPITAL LLC
    Inventors: Malcolm R. Williams, Adrian D. DeSilva, Huy Thanh Vu
  • Patent number: 9732678
    Abstract: A system and method for supplementing fuel feed pressure and flow within an aircraft fuel system. The fuel system includes boost and override fuel pumps delivering fuel from the tanks to a fuel manifold, and a jettison fuel pump. The method includes the steps of: (a) sensing whether the aircraft engine is operating near maximum power; (b) upon sensing the condition, operating the jettison fuel pump in fluid interconnection with the override fuel pump to deliver fuel to the fuel manifold; and (c) upon sensing the cessation of the condition, deactivating the jettison fuel pump. The system includes a monitoring circuit signaling when the aircraft engine speed is greater than a predetermined threshold, and a fuel system control circuit operating a jettison fuel pump enable circuit portion in response to the signal while omitting other jettisoning operations. The jettison fuel pump consequently functions as an override fuel pump assist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: William H. McCabe
  • Publication number: 20150136262
    Abstract: An electrically-controlled water pressure regulator for use with a poultry watering system receives potable water at a first high pressure level and reduces the water pressure level of the water provided to watering valves that dispense water to the flock within a poultry house. A variable control valve uses a needle-shaped cone to engage a round port inside the housing of the regulator. A stepper motor controls the liner movement of the control valve in incremental microsteps to adjust the water pressure level provided to the flock. A feedback component enables the variable control valve to maintain the water pressure level at a desired set point for the flock. The desired set point for the flock is controlled or automated to match the growth of the flock over their growth cycle. An electrical controller and suitable cabling enable multiple regulators to be controlled efficiently and cost-effectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Charles Willis, Shawn Willis, Dustin Hicks, Chris Hawk
  • Publication number: 20150129686
    Abstract: A valve assembly for spraying devices for agricultural technology having a plurality of valves, wherein the valves each include a valve body, which is capable of assuming at least one enable position and one disable position relative to a valve seat, an electric motor for moving the valve seat and/or the valve body into the enable position and the disable position, and an electric energy storage device for providing electric energy for the electric motor, wherein a voltage converter is provided and configured, in a first operation mode, to convert a first voltage provided by the energy storage device into a second, higher voltage to be applied to the electric motor during moving the valve body and/or the valve seat and, in a second operation mode, to charge the energy storage device with low power input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: Wolfgang REMPP
  • Patent number: 8997771
    Abstract: An integrated pressure control actuator assembly of a hydrogen supply system includes: a start/stop solenoid valve, a bypass valve, and a pressure control actuator, which are integrally formed in a single body; a normal flow path formed on the body, through which hydrogen gas is transferred from the start/stop solenoid valve to the pressure control actuator; an auxiliary flow path formed on the body, through which hydrogen gas is transferred according to opening and closing of the bypass valve connected to the normal flow path; and a control means for controlling the opening and closing of the bypass valve by detecting a failure of the pressure control actuator. The assembly enables the fuel cell vehicle to be driven in a limp home mode in the event of an emergency by adjustment of the pressure of hydrogen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Hyun Joon Lee, Yong Gyu Noh
  • Publication number: 20150083260
    Abstract: In a solenoid valve system, a plurality of first through third solenoid valve units are divided into a plurality of first through third groups. In this case, a safety power source control unit is provided for controlling the first through third solenoid valve units with respect to each of the first through third groups.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Applicant: SMC KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Fumio Morikawa, Noaki Sakamura
  • Publication number: 20150075212
    Abstract: The present application thus provides an expansion device for a refrigeration system. The expansion device may include a multi-way valve with an inlet port, a number of outlet ports, and a selectable valve member movable between a number of open positions related to the outlet ports and a closed position, and a number of capillary tubes in communication with the outlet ports.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventor: Roberto Horn Pereira
  • Publication number: 20150059902
    Abstract: A bypass valve and a valve assembly including a bypass valve are disclosed. The bypass valve includes a manifold having 4 ports and a valve stem including two sealing elements disposed along the valve stem length. The valve stem may be displaced to a first valve position and a second valve position to selectably place combinations of ports in fluid communication with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: Flextronics Automotive, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew Peterson
  • Publication number: 20140265492
    Abstract: A micro-valve assembly for incorporation into a vehicle seat having an inflatable bladder. The micro-valve assembly includes a first housing that cooperates with two micro-valve sub-assemblies to define a high and low pressure supply chamber. A second housing cooperates with both of the first and second micro-valve subassemblies to define a primary pressure chamber. Each of the micro-valve sub-assemblies further includes a valve port extending therethrough with a MEMS micro-valve positioned in the valve port. The MEMS micro valves are actuatable between open and closed positions to respectively permit and prohibit fluid communication between the primary pressure chamber and high and low pressure supply chambers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: James Larsen
  • Patent number: 8689822
    Abstract: A pressure control system remotely controls pressure within one or more remote zones, each respectively connected to an enclosure through a conduit, by controlling flow of a fluid into and out of each enclosure. The pressure of the fluid is measured within each enclosure. An estimated pressure within each zone is computed, as a function of the measured pressure in the enclosure and known characteristics of the conduit and the zone. For each zone, an inlet proportional valve and an outlet proportional valve of each enclosure is operated so as to control the input flow rate of the fluid into the respective enclosure and the output flow rate of the fluid out of the enclosure as a function of a pressure set point and the estimated pressure, thereby regulating pressure within the zone in accordance with the pressure set point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Ali Shajii, Siddharth P. Nagarkatti, Gordon Hill
  • Patent number: 8684033
    Abstract: A valve including a body that defines first and second ducts that open out into a third duct. The first duct is provided with a first shutter and the second duct is provided with a second shutter connected to drive means arranged to move the shutters in a normal mode of operation in which the second shutter is in the closed position and the first shutter is adjustable in position between an open position and a first closed position, a stop mode in which the second shutter is in its closed position and the first shutter is in its first closed position, and a secondary mode of operation in which the second shutter is in its open position and the first shutter is in a second closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Valeo Systemes de Controle Moteur
    Inventors: Laurent Albert, Arnold Rimpau
  • Patent number: 8627883
    Abstract: A linear actuation apparatus for controlling fluid flow comprises a tubular manifold for conducting fluid through a portion, and a shaft supported for reciprocal axial movement within the manifold. A valve seat is supported within the manifold in substantial alignment with the shaft, and a valve closure element is carried by the shaft for reciprocal axial movement between a closed and an opened position. A magnetic element is also carried by the shaft for reciprocal axial movement therewith. A pair of springs are carried on opposing sides of the magnetic element wherein one spring is compressed and applies an axial force to the shaft when the shaft is moved from a neutral position. A compound magnet, carried by the manifold, applies an axial force to the magnetic element that together with the axial force of the spring(s) and fluid pressure control movement of the shaft and the valve closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Edward Richards
  • Patent number: 8602050
    Abstract: A self-cleaning varnish supply machine and method of using the same. The machine has a plurality of at least two cylindrical storage containers, a supply line, a return line, a pump, a compressed air supply source, a plurality of at least two outlet valves, a plurality of two inlet valves, and a compressed air supply source valve. The machine can be operated in three different modes. In the first mode, the machine can be used to supply varnish to a varnish application device. Next, the machine can be operated in an automated self-cleaning mode. Finally, the machine can be operated in a manual self-cleaning mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventor: Chuanbin Jiang
  • Patent number: 8584708
    Abstract: A single actuator multi-port flow control valve composed of a plurality of generally cylindrically shaped port bodies rotatably mounted within a valve body. The port bodies are serially driven by a single actuator via a drive link system composed of a drive pin on the inferior side wall of a serial superior port body selectively abutting, during rotation, a driven tab on the superior side wall of its serially inferior port body. The position of each port body is known to an electronic controller which selectively actuates the actuator to set each port body angular position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Brian K. Bartnick, Corry W Johnson
  • Patent number: 8479770
    Abstract: The invention relates to valve system made up of multiple three way valves mechanically coupled together to produce the functionality of a four way valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Oceaneering International, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd G. Holtz
  • Publication number: 20130048084
    Abstract: A single actuator multi-port flow control valve composed of a plurality of generally cylindrically shaped port bodies rotatably mounted within a valve body. The port bodies are serially driven by a single actuator via a drive link system composed of a drive pin on the inferior side wall of a serial superior port body selectively abutting, during rotation, a driven tab on the superior side wall of its serially inferior port body. The position of each port body is known to an electronic controller which selectively actuates the actuator to set each port body angular position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Brian K. Bartnick, Corry W. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8347920
    Abstract: The inventive technology, in embodiments, may include a controller configured to coordinate operation of valves and remotely controllable regulators that are fluidically communicative therewith, allowing the control of positioners of positioner zones that are fluidically communicative with such remotely controllable regulators. Preferred embodiments may find application as, e.g., a pneumatic system to control positioners, whether such positioner find use in bottling applications or elsewhere. Additional aspects of the inventive technology may relate to methods for pressurized fluid positioner control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Flexibility Engineering, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph W. Pawelski
  • Patent number: 8327874
    Abstract: A high integrity protection system (HIPS) for protection of a pipe downstream of a wellhead includes: an inlet connected to the wellhead; outlet connected to the downstream pipe; two sets of two series-connected surface safety valves (SSVs) in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet, the two sets being in parallel fluid flow relation to each other, either one or both of the sets of SSVs operable as a flowpath for fluids entering the inlet and passing through the outlet to the downstream pipe; two vent control valves (VCVs), each connected to piping intermediate one set of series-connected SSVs, the VCVs being in fluid communication with a vent line, whereby, upon opening of a VCV, process pressure between the two SSVs is vented; a signal-generating safety logic solver, in accordance with preprogrammed safety and operational protocols; and pressure sensing transmitters attached to piping upstream of the HIPS outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Patrick S. Flanders
  • Publication number: 20120286180
    Abstract: A digital hydraulics valve includes a plurality of digitally switchable individual valves, which are connected in parallel with respect to a load, and at least one equalizing valve for generating intermediate values between the opening cross-section stages that can be implemented by the digitally switchable individual valves. The equalizing valve is a poppet valve, which provides a partial opening cross-section smaller than the nominal opening cross-section thereof by actuation using a time switching pattern. The time switching pattern is preferably based on the principle of a pulse width modulation. The equalizing valve is further preferably a valve selected from the plurality of individual valves of the digital hydraulics valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventors: Hermann Mehling, Daniel Weiler
  • Patent number: 8142556
    Abstract: A compressed air supply device for a utility vehicle includes a valve housing and an air-drying cartridge, wherein compressed air can be supplied to the air-drying cartridge via the valve housing. The compressed air flows through the air-drying cartridge in a first direction of flow. An electrically controllable valve is provided in the valve housing, which ensures a return flow of compressed air counter to the first direction of flow through the air-drying cartridge for regeneration purposes. A valve that can be controlled pneumatically by the electrically controlled valve is provided in the valve housing, via which compressed air can be supplied to the air-drying cartridge for regeneration purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: KNORR-BREMSE Systeme fuer Nutzfahzeuge GmbH
    Inventor: Eduard Hilberer
  • Patent number: 8113268
    Abstract: An air conditioning system of the present invention for an automotive vehicle includes a housing having at least two sections connected by two side by side air passage. A blower device of the air conditioning system discharges air into the housing. An evaporator is disposed in one of the sections for taking heat from the air discharged from the blower device to produce cool air. A heater is disposed in the other section positioned downstream of the evaporator for adding heat to the cool air to produce warm air. First and second sliding valve plates mechanically communicating with a driving mechanism of the present invention are supported by the housing for selectively closing the two side by side air passages thereby regulating air flow of cool and warm air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark W. Stevenson
  • Patent number: 8051875
    Abstract: A protection apparatus detects and reduces overpressure in a fluid pipeline. First and second pipeline valves are connected in series along the pipeline and are independently switchable between open and closed positions. A pressure transducer determines the fluid pressure in the pipeline at a point intermediate the first and second pipeline valves. A bypass line has a first end connected to the pipeline between the input end and the first pipeline valve and a second end connected to the pipeline between the first and second pipeline valves. A bypass valve is connected along the bypass line. A vent line is connected to the bypass line between the bypass valve and the second end of the bypass line. A vent valve is connected along the vent line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Controls Limited
    Inventor: Jeremy Paul Lawrence Edwards
  • Patent number: 8037896
    Abstract: A pressure control system remotely controls pressure within one or more remote zones, each respectively connected to an enclosure through a conduit, by controlling flow of a fluid into and out of each enclosure. The pressure of the fluid is measured within each enclosure. An estimated pressure within each zone is computed, as a function of the measured pressure in the enclosure and known characteristics of the conduit and the zone. For each zone, an inlet proportional valve and an outlet proportional valve of each enclosure is operated so as to control the input flow rate of the fluid into the respective enclosure and the output flow rate of the fluid out of the enclosure as a function of a pressure set point and the estimated pressure, thereby regulating pressure within the zone in accordance with the pressure set point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Ali Shajii, Siddharth P. Nagarkatti, Gordon Hill
  • Patent number: 8019481
    Abstract: A flow ratio controller having: a main channel; branch channels branching from the end of the main channel; control valves respectively provided in the branch channels; a plurality of flow rate meters for measuring the flow rate of the main channel and the flow rate of each of the branch channels; a valve control section for controlling the control valve provided in one branch channel so that the pressure on the upstream side of the control valve is a given target pressure and, only when the upstream-side pressure is near or not less than the target pressure, starting control of the other control valve so that the flow rate ratios of the branch channels are predetermined ratios; and a target pressure setting section for setting the target pressure such that the smaller the flow volume is in the main channel, the lower is the target pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Horiba STEC, Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuji Yamaguchi, Akihiro Matsumoto, Yutaka Yoneda
  • Patent number: 7905251
    Abstract: A high integrity protection system (HIPS) for protection of a pipe downstream of a wellhead includes an inlet connected to the wellhead; outlet connected to the downstream pipe; two sets of two series-connected surface safety valves (SSVs) in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet, the sets being in parallel fluid flow relation to each other, either one or both of the sets of SSVs operable as a flowpath for fluids entering the inlet and passing through the outlet to the downstream pipe; two vent control valves (VCVs), each connected to piping intermediate one set of series-connected SSVs, the VCVs being in fluid communication with a vent line, whereby, upon opening of a VCV, process pressure between the two SSVs is vented; a signal-generating safety logic solver, in accordance with preprogrammed safety and operational protocols; and pressure sensing transmitters attached to piping upstream of the HIPS outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Patrick S. Flanders
  • Publication number: 20100236653
    Abstract: A compressed air supply device for a utility vehicle includes a valve housing and an air-drying cartridge, wherein compressed air can be supplied to the air-drying cartridge via the valve housing. The compressed air flows through the air-drying cartridge in a first direction of flow. An electrically controllable valve is provided in the valve housing, which ensures a return flow of compressed air counter to the first direction of flow through the air-drying cartridge for regeneration purposes. A valve that can be controlled pneumatically by the electrically controlled valve is provided in the valve housing, via which compressed air can be supplied to the air-drying cartridge for regeneration purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: KNORR-BREMSE Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventor: Eduard Hilberer
  • Patent number: 7771888
    Abstract: A purge valve for a split fuel cell stack design that prevents a direct flow path between the anode sides of the split stacks. The purge valve includes an inlet port that receives purge air from a compressor, a first outlet port in fluid communication with the anode side of one of the split stacks and a second outlet port in fluid communication with the anode side of the other split stack. A spring biased shaft maintains a diaphragm in a closed position to close off the flow channels between the inlet port and the first outlet port, the inlet port and the second outlet port and the first and second outlet ports during normal fuel cell operation. A hole is provided through the diaphragm to provide pressure equalization in the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron Rogahn, Bruce J. Clingerman, Joseph Gerzseny
  • Publication number: 20100095890
    Abstract: A gas supply system 20 for supplying a gas into a pumping system 10 is provided, the pumping system including a plurality of pumping means 14, 16, the gas supply system comprising a gas inlet 22 and plurality of gas conduits 24, 25 fluidly connected to the gas inlet and each having a gas outlet 27, 28 fluidly connectable to the pumping system 10, wherein the gas outlets of the plurality of gas conduits are in parallel fluidly connectable to the pumping system and each gas conduit is provided with a gradient adjustment means adapted to provide at least one gradient of gas amount supplied to the pumping system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas GEBELE, Juergen HENRICH, Thomas LEIPNITZ, Stefan KLEIN
  • Patent number: 7690393
    Abstract: The present subject matter relates to controlling water sources external to a structure and more particularly to an external water shutoff. One embodiment of the present subject matter includes an apparatus having an electrically operable valve placed on a water supply line internal to a structure between a location where the water supply line enters the structure and a location where the water supply line exits the structure, an auto-drain valve, and means for controlling the electrically operable valve, wherein the means for controlling is external to the structure, further wherein the means for controlling the electrically operable valve is communicatively connected to the electrically operable valve external to the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Flow-Tech Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Allen J. Nagle, Paul Michael Holmes, Jonathan Salvatore Kallestad
  • Patent number: 7673645
    Abstract: The multiple antisymmetric optimal (MAO) control algorithm is disclosed for a gas delivery system including a flow ratio controller for dividing a single mass flow into multiple flow lines. In the MAO control algorithm, each flow line is provided with a flow sensor and a valve actively controlled by a SISO feedback controller combined with a linear saturator to achieve the targeted flow ratio set point. For optimal control performance, these SISO controller and linear saturators are substantial identical. It is proved that each valve control command is multiple antisymmetric to the summation of all other valve control commands. Therefore, the MAO control algorithm guarantees that there exists at least one valve at the allowable maximum open position at any moment, which achieves the optimal solution in terms of the maximum total valve conductance for a given set of flow ratio set points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Junhua Ding, Kaveh H. Zarkar
  • Publication number: 20090160246
    Abstract: A control for use in a hydraulic circuit where the control can act as a valve and an auxiliary pressure source for the hydraulic circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventor: Richard Daigre
  • Publication number: 20090151790
    Abstract: An electromagnetic valving system includes a manifold having one or more flow passages therein; a sleeve disposed relative to the manifold so that movement of the sleeve inhibits or allows fluid flow relative to the manifold; and an electromagnet positioned relative to the sleeve such that a magnetic field generated by the at least one electromagnet produces a motive force in the sleeve and method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Priyesh Ranjan, Don A. Hopmann, Luis E. Mendez, Carl W. Stoesz
  • Publication number: 20080179555
    Abstract: The present invention relates to microfluidic devices, and in particular, flow management in such devices. In particular, the present invention provides an electrostatic valve for flow manipulation in a microfluidic device. The valve of the present invention sits on a valve seat in a microchannel and deflects away from the valve seat by electrostatic actuation to assume an opened configuration to allow fluid flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2005
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Applicant: UVA PATENT FOUNDATION
    Inventors: James P. Landers, Matthew R. Begley, Jerome P. Ferrance, Michael H. Jones, Jennifer Monahan-Dian
  • Patent number: 7363942
    Abstract: A valve which is composed of: —A seal consisting of two identical ferromagnetic discs (1), which enclose another smaller-diameter disc (2) and a permanent magnet, the rims (3) of the outer discs (1) being bevelled and the three discs conjointly forming a perimeter groove housing a spring ring (4), —A valve body in two superimposed parts (5)-(5?) with an intercommunicating chamber (6), inside which the rolling movement of the seal can take place, —Seal movements means consisting of: a bi-metal conductor (8) and an opposing spring (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Irrimon, S.A.U.
    Inventor: Angel Valero Fernandez
  • Patent number: 7219697
    Abstract: In a twin-solenoid valve D comprising two valve members V which are located side by side and are actuated in closing direction by a common solenoid M via a T-shaped force transmitting member, a stem 4 of which is guided in a slide guidance 3, a radial safety clearance X is provided between the slide guidance 3 and the stem 4, and a tilt joint K is formed between the stem 4 and an armature B or a movably guided armature ram 2 of the solenoid M.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Hawe Hydraulik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Georg Neumair, Engelbert Zwingler
  • Patent number: 7080664
    Abstract: A fluid amplifier is presented. The fluid amplifier comprises at least one control valve for controlling at least one of a first control fluid flow and a second control fluid flow. That is, the control valve has a movable element for selectively opening and closing at least one of the first control stream channel and the second control fluid flow channel. The control valve also includes a diaphragm for isolating the moveable element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Crystal Fountains Inc.
    Inventor: George Ayer
  • Patent number: 7059581
    Abstract: A valve for supplying fuel gas to a fuel gas appliance comprises a valve housing which defines a valve chamber within which a main carrier member is axially moveable. The main carrier carries a primary and a secondary valving member for co-operating respectively with a primary and a secondary valve seat. A pilot fluid outlet supplies fuel gas to a pilot jet. A stepper motor comprising a rotor and four magnetic coils urges the main carrier between a fully open and closed position. An electro-magnetic coil located in the main carrier magnetically couples primary and secondary end plates to the main carrier. Magnetic decoupling of the primary and secondary end plates from the main carrier permits the main carrier to be urged into the closed position by primary compression springs. The drive transmission comprises a drive shaft from the rotor of the stepper motor and a drive spindle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Connemara Innovation Limited
    Inventor: Gianmario Invernizzi
  • Patent number: 6990992
    Abstract: A damper device includes a first baffle capable of opening or closing a first opening portion by turning about its axis and a second baffle capable of opening or closing a second opening portion by turning about its axis. A common drive source for driving the first baffle and the second baffle and a gear train by which the output from the drive source is transmitted to the first baffle and the second baffle are also provided. The device also includes a first rotary shaft driven by the gear train for driving the first baffle and a second rotary shaft driven by the gear train for driving the second baffle. The first rotary shaft and the second rotary shaft are arranged to be extended from the positions adjacent to each other on the gear train toward one side in an axial direction of the gear train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Sankyo Seiki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Seiichiro Noritake
  • Patent number: 6968853
    Abstract: The motor-operated valve for regulating a gas flow is the lift type with a modulating valve cut-off member (11), coupled to a valve spindle (10,10a) sliding linearly along a central gas flow conduit (5). A flame safety valve is open initially due to the pressure of the spindle (10a) and in case of the movement of the spindle being locked because of the change in the direction of rotation of the motor, safety cut-off means (5a, 21-24, 21?-22?) drawn by the spindle (10) are interposed between the valve inlet conduit (6) and the outlet conduits (7,8,20) to prevent gas escaping, while the modulating cut-off member (21,21?) is still not actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Maite Amazorrain
  • Patent number: 6957666
    Abstract: Improved low flow impedance flow control valves are disclosed in the present invention wherein spring valve means (12) captured between a valve spool (28) and a shoulder (30) are utilized for selectively metering a flow of fluid from an inlet port (18) to an outlet port (14) via a round edged helical orifice (82) formed between the open coils of the spring valve (12) as a function of the instant axial position of the valve spool (28) and the differential pressure therebetween. An improved method of controlling low impedance flow control valves is also disclosed in the present invention. The improved method provides better accuracy in controlling fluid flow through low flow impedance flow control valves through continually cycling a means for substantially interrupting fluid flow therethrough in a low frequency pulse width modulated fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Cafe Engineering
    Inventor: Edward H. Phillips
  • Patent number: 6955186
    Abstract: An electromagnetic dual-action control valve with a housing (2), with connections (15, 16, 17) for inflow and outflow lines for a pressure medium, with a solenoid (3) and with two armatures arranged to move within the solenoid (3) for opening and closing the line connections. To simplify the structure of such a dual-action control valve, it is provided that one of the armatures is formed as a hollow armature (4) with a closed end (11), within which an inner armature (5) is arranged to move coaxially, and the hollow armature (4) has openings (20, 21) for the pressure medium, of which one opening (21) can be closed by a sealing surface (13) of the inner armature (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Walter Kill, Jürgen Halter, Hubert Remmlinger, Karlheinz Mayr
  • Patent number: 6918408
    Abstract: A valve driving device comprises a main case having one or more inlet pipes through which a fluid flows in from an external compressor and two or more outlet pipes through which the fluid flows out and also having built-in valve elements to open and close openings that are portions of a fluid path for the fluid and are connected to the outlet pipes to flow and stop the fluid and a driving portion for driving the valve elements. When the driving portion is driven in the driving direction, the openings and the valve elements together can switch between four operation modes (close-close, open-close, close-open, and open-open) with respect to the two outlet pipes; three or more of the operation modes, including the close-close mode, being obtained; the driving portion is driven back and forth while two modes of the three or more modes are assigned to be at both ends of the driving direction; and the close-close mode is assigned to be at one of the ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Sankyo Seiki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tetsuhiko Hara