With Electrical Actuation Patents (Class 137/870)
  • Patent number: 6776240
    Abstract: A valve for downhole well service, having a rotary indexer carrying an elastically-loaded valve element on a valve seat surface in a flow passage, the valve element adapted to obstruct one or more flow passages in the valve seat surface when aligned therewith. The valve may additionally, or alternatively, comprise an elastically-loaded valve element mounted in one or more flow passages in the valve seat surface, this valve element adapted to obstruct the flow passage in which it is installed when urged into contact with the valve seat surface. When a valve element is mounted in one or more of the flow passages in the valve seat, the indexer comprises a protrusion positioned to engage such valve element and force it out of contact with the valve seat surface. The valve may be actuated by command from the surface by sending telemetry elements to a downhole telemetry data detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Michael H. Kenison, Michael L. Smith
  • Patent number: 6708726
    Abstract: A first pipe, a second pipe and a third pipe are airtightly connected with each other. A cam member rotates about a rotation axis for moving a valve body so as to open/close the first pipe and the second pipe so that the third pipe is selectively communicated with the first pipe and the second pipe, the cam member being movable in a direction parallel with the rotation axis. A cam actuator drives the cam member so as to move the cam member in the direction parallel with the rotation axis to open both of the first pipe and the second pipe, when the cam member is rotated at a predetermined angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Sanyo Seiki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Katsuo Hashimoto
  • Publication number: 20040050429
    Abstract: A gray water collection and distribution system includes a main drain line, one or more black water sources connected to the main drain line, one or more gray water sources connected to the main drain line and a collection valve located down stream from at least one of the one or more black water sources. The collection valve includes an inlet connected to the main drain line, and an outlet connectable which can be switched to either a black water drain line or a gray water drain line, depending upon which type of water flow is detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Applicant: Southwest Water Solutions, LLC.
    Inventors: Peter G. Aylward, Joseph A. Casali, Brandon D. Porter, Robert G. Perkins
  • Publication number: 20030230346
    Abstract: Valve with a displaceable actuating device that controls the movements of at least one actual sealing element for opening and closing, and the actuating device is loaded with an elastic element essentially in a perpendicular direction relative to the direction of displacement, and the longitudinal axis of the actuating device and the force exercised by the elastic element are aligned in one position of the actuating device between its two extreme positions. In order to realize a valve that can be electrically switched using minimal currents and that is characterized, in particular, by its small construction size but that is still able to achieve large regulating distances, the actuating device is a unilaterally constrained piezoelectric bending element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2003
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventors: Erich Dorfler, Bernhard Russ, Gunther Strasser, Rainer Teltscher
  • Publication number: 20030168115
    Abstract: A multi-channel valve uses a single drive motor to translate a single actuator assembly coupling multiple pintle valves for metering the same amount of media through each channel. The actuator assembly includes a swivel base mounting two or more clevis and nut arrangements coupled to the pintles. The actuator assembly translates the pintles the same distance. The clevis and nut joints can pivot and slide with respect to the swivel base to provide four degrees of freedom between the pintles to significantly reduce binding or side loading on one or both pintles. A stop cushioning assembly is provided to prevent jamming at the interface of the actuator assembly and a motor driven drive assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: Harvey B. Jansen
  • Patent number: 6612542
    Abstract: A motor operated butterfly valve arrangement, at least one valve element of which is to be brought into a proper extreme position such that water leakage or the like does not occur within the pipe controlled by the valve element, without the necessity to improve dimensional or mounting accuracy of the components and without the need to lock the motor actuating the valve element. An elastically deformable elastic coupling member is provided in a coupling mechanism interconnecting the motor and the valve element. As soon as the valve element reaches the desired extreme position in contact with a stopper, the motor is rotated to deform the elastic coupling member and to improve the contact between the valve element and the stopper. The motor is stopped in the deformed state of the elastic coupling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: TGK Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hisatoshi Hirota, Masaaki Tonegawa
  • Publication number: 20020179164
    Abstract: A first pipe, a second pipe and a third pipe are airtighty connected with each other. A cam member rotates about a rotation axis for moving a valve body so as to open/close the first pipe and the second pipe so that the third pipe is selectively communicated with the first pipe and the second pipe, the cam member being movable in a direction parallel with the rotation axis. A cam actuator drives the cam member so as to move the cam member in the direction parallel with the rotation axis to open both of the first pipe and the second pipe, when the cam member is rotated at a predetermined angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA SANKYO SEIKI SEISAKUSHO
    Inventor: Katsuo Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 6450198
    Abstract: A miniature solenoid valve comprising: a valve body; an electromagnet having a yoke secured to the body and a plunger core movable relative to the yoke along a longitudinal axis of the electromagnet; a pneumatic chamber formed in the body adjacent to the end of the plunger core that faces away from the yoke, into which chamber there opens out freely a first duct and, each via a respective seat, second and third ducts, with the openings of the second and third ducts facing in opposite directions and being coaxial about the longitudinal axis of the electromagnet; and first and second valve members facing the two seats respectively with clearance, the first valve member being carried by the plunger core and the second valve member being carried by moving equipment held in contact with the plunger core so as to be moved therewith, in which the two seats are provided at respective ends of a single seat-carrier piece which includes internally the ends of the second and third ducts, said piece being engaged in t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Parker Hannifin Rak SA
    Inventors: Daniel Bouteille, Patrick Muller, Philippe Rodrigues
  • Patent number: 6382256
    Abstract: A three-way flow control valve for refrigeration cycles having two parallel heat exchangers is disclosed. This valve is designed to selectively feed refrigerant to both heat exchangers, or one of the two heat exchangers as desired. The three-way flow control valve of this invention consists of a hollow cylindrical casing opened at its first and second ends. A first valve housing is held in the first end of the casing, and is provided with a first refrigerant outlet and a first orifice formed in the first refrigerant outlet. A second valve housing is held in the second end of the casing, and is provided with a refrigerant inlet and a second refrigerant outlet, and a second orifice formed between the refrigerant inlet and the second refrigerant outlet. A first valve means is axially set within the first valve housing so as to be axially movable to control the opening ratio of the first orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wan-Yong Kim, Gyeong-Don Kim
  • Patent number: 6371160
    Abstract: A fluid control element comprises a housing in which two control chambers are formed, which are isolated from each other and comprise a working port each as well as two pressure ports. Two of these ports are provided with a sealing seat each. The fluid control element further comprises a switching element movably mounted in said housing and comprising a sealing part in each control chamber. The sealing part cooperates with the sealing seats such that these are opened or closed. The fluid control element further comprises an actuating member for the switching element, the actuating member being able to bring the switching element into three positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Heinrich Dettmann
  • Publication number: 20020011272
    Abstract: A three-way flow control valve for refrigeration cycles having two parallel heat exchangers is disclosed. This valve is designed to selectively feed refrigerant to both heat exchangers, or one of the two heat exchangers as desired. The three-way flow control valve of this invention consists of a hollow cylindrical casing opened at its first and second ends. A first valve housing is held in the first end of the casing, and is provided with a first refrigerant outlet and a first orifice formed in the first refrigerant outlet. A second valve housing is held in the second end of the casing, and is provided with a refrigerant inlet and a second refrigerant outlet, and a second orifice formed between the refrigerant inlet and the second refrigerant outlet. A first valve means is axially set within the first valve housing so as to be axially movable to control the opening ratio of the first orifice.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Publication date: January 31, 2002
    Inventors: Wan-Yong Kim, Gyeong-Don Kim
  • Patent number: 6330891
    Abstract: In a double-damper apparatus 1 including a driving portion (2), two frame portions (3 and 4) arranged on both sides of the driving portion, and two open/close members (5 and 6) which are coupled with the driving portion (2) and perform the operation of opening/closing the openings (31 and 41) formed in the frame portions respectively by the driving force of the driving portion, a steps(s) &bgr; is formed between the flat portions (37b and 47b) of the two frame portions (3 and 4). A labyrinth structure is formed between both flat portions (37b and 47b) to prevent leakage of fluid between both fluid channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Sankyo Seiki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Seiichiro Noritake
  • Patent number: 6328222
    Abstract: A fuel injector for use in a internal combustion engine is disclosed. The fuel injector includes a body having a discharge end and a longitudinal axis extending therethrough, and an electromagnetic coil located within the body. The fuel injector further includes a fuel metering valve operable between an open position and a closed position and an air metering valve operable between an open position and a closed position. The fuel injector also includes a valve seat located within the body proximate to the discharge end and includes an orifice extending therethrough along the longitudinal axis. A needle is reciprocally mounted along the longitudinal axis between an open position and a closed position. The needle has an upstream end, a downstream end, and a needle channel extending therethrough along the longitudinal axis. The needle engages the valve seat in the closed position. A guide is disposed along the longitudinal axis such that the upstream end of the needle is reciprocable within the guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Siemens Automotive Corporation
    Inventors: Vernon R. Warner, Harry R. Brooks, Jeff B. Pace, James Cohen
  • Patent number: 6286548
    Abstract: A fluid control element comprises a housing in which two control chambers are formed, which are isolated from each other and comprise a working port each as well as two pressure ports. Two of these ports are provided with a sealing seat each. The fluid control element further comprises a switching element movably mounted in said housing and comprising a sealing part in each control chamber. The sealing part cooperates with the sealing seats such that these are opened or closed. The fluid control element further comprises an actuating member for the switching element, the actuating member being able to bring the switching element into three positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Burkert Werke GmbH & Co
    Inventor: Heinrich Dettmann
  • Patent number: 6237683
    Abstract: A device for regulating fluid flow in a well is provided. The device may include: a body member having a central bore extending therethrough, at least one flow port, and a first valve seat; a sleeve member movably disposed within the central bore of the body member, and having a second valve seat adapted for cooperable sealing engagement with the first valve seat; means for selectively controlling movement of the sleeve member to regulate fluid flow through the at least one flow port; and conduit means for transmitting energy to the movement means. The conduit means may include a first and a second hydraulic control line, a single hydraulic control line, or a single electrical conductor. The movement means may include: a piston connected to the sleeve member and movable in response to a combination of hydraulic fluid, pressurized gas, spring force, and/or annulus pressure; or an electric motor connected to the sleeve member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Camco International Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald E. Pringle, Clay W. Milligan, Jr., Dwayne D. Leismer
  • Patent number: 6158713
    Abstract: An electromagnetic valve which opens and closes passages for fluid by moving movable valve elements by means of attraction of an electromagnet includes movable valve elements having fluid passages and disposed inside a cylindrical electromagnet. The movable valve elements are disposed in the fluid passage inside the electromagnet so that supply and exhaust of fluid and switching between two directions can be performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: Techno Takatsuki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ikuo Ohya, Yasuhiro Murayama
  • Patent number: 6058726
    Abstract: A damper comprises two cold air inlets through which a fluid flows, two gate plates which open and close the two cold air inlets and a drive unit for driving the two gate plates. The drive unit is installed between the two cold air inlets to open and close the gate plates. The drive unit operates to control the fluid flow. In a particular form, the damper is installed in a refrigerator for opening and closing two cold air inlets of the refrigerator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Sankyo Seiki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Seiichiro Noritake
  • Patent number: 6032693
    Abstract: A solenoid valve assembly for controlling gas supply includes a lower cover formed with a first chamber at an end thereof, a second chamber located adjacent to and communicating with the first chamber, a third chamber located adjacent to the second chamber, a fourth chamber located adjacent to and communicating with the third chamber, and a fifth chamber located at another end thereof and communicating with the fourth chamber, a base plate fixedly mounted on a bottom of the lower cover, a diaphragm mounted between the base and the bottom of the lower cover, a spring arranged between the base plate and the diaphragm, an upper cover formed with a first cavity at an end thereof, a second cavity at an intermediate portion thereof and a third cavity at another end thereof, whereby the solenoid valve assembly can be used for controlling for controlling gas supply to a main and an auxiliary burners as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: William Home
  • Patent number: 6026860
    Abstract: A solenoid valve apparatus, for supplying two end-users from a single pressure fluid source, includes two valves and a solenoid apparatus for actuating the two valves. The two valves are installed opposite each other, and the solenoid apparatus is located between the two valves. The solenoid apparatus contains two armatures configured as movable valve elements, which are approximately coaxial with each other. A coil surrounds the two armatures over at least part of their axial extensions. A pressure fluid channel connects the pressure fluid inlet of one valve to the pressure fluid inlet of the other valve. Each valve has a corresponding pressure fluid outlet, which connects to a respective end-user pressure fluid chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: WABCO GmbH
    Inventor: Andreas Teichmann
  • Patent number: 6003552
    Abstract: A rocker valve for alternately sealing one of two outlet ports is provided with two cylinders in which there are respectively disposed pistons carrying sealing members for longitudinal reciprocation along the extended axes of valve seats respectively surrounding the port openings. The rocker is rotated to urge one piston toward its respective valve seat while permitting the other piston to be retracted from its respective valve seat. An elastomeric diaphragm is mounted between the sealing members mounted on the pistons and the valve seats whereby the sealing members urge the diaphragm against the valve seats during sealing. The longitudinal motion of the pistons prevents skewing of the sealing members during rotation of the rocker arm for maintaining the sealing members parallel to the valve seats throughout the strokes of the pistons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Automatic Switch Company
    Inventors: John R. Shank, Peter A. Holborow, William G. Reeson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5988532
    Abstract: A valve nozzle for introducing a flowable liquid into a mixing chamber through which flows a gas includes a nozzle head having defined therein the mixing chamber and having a gas delivery conduit which communicates with the mixing chamber, the mixing chamber having at least one nozzle opening through which a mixture of the gas and the flowable liquid pass from the nozzle head; driving device for opening and closing the at least one nozzle opening; closing spring connected to the driving device; an actuating device connected to the closing spring; a closure body which is disposed on the outflow side of the at least one nozzle opening, which is supported on the actuating device, and which is axially movable; a distribution chamber which discharges into the mixing chamber and has a valve seat for the closure body so that the interstice between the valve seat and the closure body, in an open position of the closure body, forms the at least one nozzle opening; a delivery conduit for the flowable liquid which termi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: FEV Motorentechnik GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Norbert Alt, Michael Blaich, Guenter Guerich, Karl-Joachim Schmuecker
  • Patent number: 5979484
    Abstract: A safety and regulation valve unit for a gas installation, particularly a heating installation, comprises a duct through which the fuel can flow between an inlet and at least one outlet. An on-off fuel-valve is interposed in the duct between the inlet and the at least one outlet, and there is a movable device for controlling the valve as well as an actuator acting on the movable device in order to move it towards a first operative position in which it cooperates with the on-off valve in order to put the inlet into communication with the outlet. The actuator comprises a reversible motor with a rotor connected to a male-and-female screw coupling acting on the movable device to translate it towards the first operative position and to control the on-off valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: OP Controls S.r.l.
    Inventors: Maurizio Grando, Michele Bortoliero, Vanni Gallocchio
  • Patent number: 5964242
    Abstract: A mechanism to control the size of particles flowing through it, even to the nanometer scale, that contains a beam or plate effectively anchored at the bottom of each of a plurality of adjacent chambers, and, wherein the top of the beam or plate and the bottom of the chambers are polished to a degree finer than the particle size to be excluded, and with the polished surfaces normally brought into intimate contact to close off the chambers; an extension to the beam or plate acting as a force source to the beam or plate, such that when the extension is deflected a known large amount, the resulting deflection in the neighborhood of the anchoring point is very small, enabling the extension to create a transmission effect with the bending of the extension down, making the beam or plate act like a cantilever and opening the system for flushing; while bending the beam up, puts the beam in three point bending, and guides the substances from one chamber to another, with appropriate exit seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: AESOP, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexander H. Slocum
  • Patent number: 5893390
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) is provided for controlling the flow of a fluid. The apparatus (10) includes a housing (12) having an inlet port (14), an outlet port (16), and a bypass port (18). A throughput block (26) is contained within the housing (12). The throughput block (26) has a number of cylinders (28) formed therein. A number of pistons (34) are received within the cylinders (28). Each piston (34) can move within a corresponding cylinder (28) between a first position and a second position. En the first position, the piston (34) prevents fluid communication between the inlet port (14) and the outlet port (16) and allows fluid communication between the inlet port (14) and the bypass port (18). In the second position, the piston (34) prevents fluid communication between the inlet port (14) and the bypass port (18) and allows fluid communication between the inlet port (14) and the outlet port (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventor: Edward A. Beam, III
  • Patent number: 5730359
    Abstract: An applicator head for the metered release of flowing media, particularly hot-melt glues, cold glue paste, lubricants, paints, or similar substances, comprises a housing within which there is disposed a pivoting rocker having two oppositely disposed rocker arms which are operatively associated with two valve mechanisms. Two stacks of piezoelectric elements are disposed upon opposite sides of a rocker axis such that when a particular one of the stacks of piezoelectric elements is energized or activated, the rocker is pivoted about the rocker axis whereby one of the valves is opened while the other valve is simultaneously closed. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, one of the valves is an applicator or dispensing valve and the other one of the valves is a closing or recirculation valve operatively connected to a recirculation system. In accordance with a second embodiment of the invention, both valves are applicator or dispensing valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: ITW Dynatec GmbH Klebetechnik
    Inventor: Heiko Wurth
  • Patent number: 5709262
    Abstract: An improved system and apparatus is provided for cooling the energy source used in powering various types of semiconductor processing devices. The improved cooling system uses a solenoid valve which is electrically controlled by the processing equipment during times in which the energy source is on, or during times in which the user manually or automatically programs valve activation. The solenoid valve can be easily and readily retrofitted to any pre-existing processing device which uses an energy source and which can be electrically activated by the processing device or a user interface panel. An activated solenoid valve allows coolant to flow through the energy source in order to maintain optimal performing temperature of the energy source. An inactive valve will reroute coolant away from the energy source to ensure longevity of the system and to minimize condensation upon the energy source electrical components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Roger A. Sikes
  • Patent number: 5685337
    Abstract: A 2-position 3-way solenoid valve is disclosed having a hinged structure. The solenoid valve includes a hollow cylindrical housing and first and second covers hermetically coupled to both ends of the housing. The first cover has first and third ports, and the housing has a second port. A diaphragm divides an inner chamber within the housing into first and second chambers, and the first to third ports are communicated with the first chamber. The second chamber contains an armature, a solenoid assembly and a core, and the armature is fixed to a push rod which extends to the first chamber through a diaphragm hole. A first spool for opening/closing the first port is provided to an end of the push rod within the first chamber. A step is provided to coupling portion of the first spool and the push rod by the difference of their diameters, and a valve lever extends perpendicularly to the push rod to engage with the step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Assignee: Daewoo Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jang-Yeol Yoo
  • Patent number: 5603305
    Abstract: An exhaust gas recirculation valve comprises a housing which constructs a part of an exhaust gas path for receiving exhaust gas from an exhaust pipe of an internal combustion engine, the housing accommodating a valve mechanism for controlling the amount of flow of the exhaust gas passing therethrough, a fixed cylinder disposed in the housing, a movable cylinder assembly composed of at least one movable cylinder disposed in the fixed cylinder, a piston movably disposed in the movable cylinder assembly for controlling an opening of the valve mechanism, and a pressure applying mechanism for respectively applying pressure to the movable cylinder and the piston so as to move them through respective predetermined strokes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshihiko Miyake, Katsuyuki Nitta, Hiroki Yamasaki, Mutsuo Sekiya
  • Patent number: 5460202
    Abstract: A three-way valve having a valve body with an internal output chamber. A supply means is in fluid communication with the output chamber for providing a source of fluid to pressurize the output chamber and thereby obtain a desired device output signal. An exhaust means in fluid communication with the output chamber provides a passage for the fluid to vent from the output chamber out to atmosphere. An output means, also in fluid communication with the output chamber, is included for directing the device output signal from the output chamber to a pneumatic device. A single bending element selectively actuates the supply means or the exhaust means to obtain a predetermined pressure value to be maintained by the valve. The bending element is positioned adjacent and between the supply and exhaust means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Assignee: Landis & Gyr Powers, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark G. Hanley, Guy P. Caliendo
  • Patent number: 5445185
    Abstract: A piezoelectric fluid control valve (10) and fluid control method using a polymorph (48) with a characteristic that as a potential difference is applied thereto, the polymorph is deflected. The valve includes a supply port (14) for introducing fluid and a chamber (16) defined within the valve body. An outlet port (18) is in fluid communication with the chamber and a device controlled thereby, such as an anti-lock brake system. A relief port (78) returns fluid to a source thereof. Upper and lower metering elements (100, 116) are supported within the chamber. A cantilevered spring valve (128, 130) is positionable within metering orifices defined within the metering elements (100, 110). The polymorph is positioned between and in operative communication therewith. An electrical circuit (56) is connected to the polymorph, the circuit providing the potential difference thereto, which is regulated in accordance with an input signal delivered to the circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: Shunso F. Watanabe, Steven J. Eckert, Gerald H. Engelman, Neil T. Dionesotes, Steven R. Collins, Steven D. Bernstein
  • Patent number: 5427142
    Abstract: A valve device for use in an electro-hydraulic mining control system employs a cuboidal housing composed of two separate sub-housings. One sub-housing block has bores containing valve assemblies with cartridges which can be inserted into or withdrawn from the bores via an exterior face. Each cartridge is made up of two elongate sleeve components in screw-threaded engagement. The sleeve components define valve seatings and closure elements are guided in the components and engage on the seatings. A rod couples the closure elements so that when one closure element is on its seating the other is off its seating and vice versa. The closure elements are biased with a spring contained in a bushing fitted into the bore via the exterior face. The bushing is used to rotate the sleeve components relative to one another to adjust the relative position of the valve seatings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: Westfalia Becorit Industrietechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Peters, Michael Dettmers
  • Patent number: 5417246
    Abstract: A pneumatic control system for providing pressurized air and vacuum to ophthalmic microsurgical instruments. The pneumatic system is constructed in a drawer assembly to allow it to be readily inserted into or removed from a modularly constructed cabinet of a microsurgical control console. In addition, the pneumatic system improves upon existing pneumatic control systems by providing a third mode of microscissors operation from a single-pneumatic port. The third mode is made possible by a high speed three-way solenoid control valve which provides rapid pulses of air to the pneumatic port. A second improvement involves the use of a pneumatic pressure transducer to monitor pneumatic pressure being supplied to the pneumatic system in order to recognize non-hazardous transient drops in air pressure which can occur under certain normal operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Assignee: American Cyanamid Company
    Inventors: James T. Perkins, Peter F. Appelbaum, John A. Painter
  • Patent number: 5353991
    Abstract: A solenoid actuated valve assembly has first and second valve members, first and second valve seats, a solenoid coil, a first armature effective when the coil is energized with a positive current to permit displacement of the first valve member from the first valve seat, and a second armature effective when the coil is energized with a negative current to displace the second valve member from the second valve seat. The first valve member engages the first valve seat when the coil is energized with a negative current, and the second valve member engages the second valve seat when the coil is energized with a positive current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen F. De Nagel, Edward D. Klomp, Andrzej M. Pawlak
  • Patent number: 5353828
    Abstract: A valve construction and method of assembling the same are provided, the valve construction having a deflector unit for directing fluid flow from the inlet of the housing means of the valve construction away from an operating part of a bimetallic lever means of the valve construction that controls a valve seat means thereof, the deflector unit having a part engaging one of a top and bottom edge of a screen at the inlet of the housing means so as to hold another part of the deflector unit in a cantilevered manner in the internal chamber of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventor: David W. Troscinski
  • Patent number: 5275207
    Abstract: A multiway valve, in particular a 4/2-way valve, has a housing provided with an axial hole having a plurality of steps to form four seat elements located one behind the other. The housing includes two end chambers and at least two intermediate spaces between these end chambers, with one of the valve connections opening into each. A spool-type drive pin carrying at least two closing elements is located in the axial hole. The drive pin is guided so as to seal at its one end and is radially supported in the axial hole by radial protrusions at its other end. This drive pin has a longitudinal passage which is connected to the first chamber via radial holes at its one end and to the second chamber via its opening provided on the related end of the drive pin at its other end. The closing elements are partially elastically flexible and interact with the seat elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Assignee: Mercedes-Benz AG
    Inventors: Wilhelm Tonhauser, Gunter Kellerman, Frank Thoma
  • Patent number: 5263513
    Abstract: A dual passage valve with four way controls comprises a synchronized poppet combination reciprocally mounted within the valve housing. There is a bore axially formed in the housing with two fluid passageways located at the proximal and distal ends of the bore. There are also inlet and outlet ports formed in the housing with the inlet port extending radially from the bore, and the outlet port having conduits extending into the two fluid passageways. The synchronized poppet combination selectively encloses and opens the bore to the two passageways allowing fluid to traverse through, stops at, and reverse from the valve synchronously in a one-stroke linear motion within the bore. The synchronized poppet combination distinctively dictates the fluid flow traffic and strictly forbids any disorderly fluid flow states within the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventor: Steven N. Roe
  • Patent number: 5226454
    Abstract: A motor actuated electric valve includes a DC motor, a gear reducer assembly, a valve body and a fluid diverter mechanically attached to the output of the gear reducer assembly. Rotation of the motor results in repositioning of the diverter within the valve body. Unidirectional and bidirectional operation of the motor are achieved via a rectifier circuit and cams which actuate limit switches to interrupt operation of the motor when the diverter is in a first or a second desired position. The valve is readily substituted for current AC actuated valves since the rectifier is incorporated into the valve actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Assignee: Hydrotech Chemical Corporation
    Inventor: Roland V. Cabalfin
  • Patent number: 5207239
    Abstract: A variable gain control apparatus for a servo assist system includes a position sensor, a valve, a controller and an actuator. The valve has an actuated member and a variable flow orifice to communicate hydraulic fluid between the high pressure supply line and a reservoir of hydraulic fluid. The position of the actuated member determines the cross sectional area of the variable flow orifice. The position sensor determines the present position of the actuated member. The controller determines a position error between the present position of the actuated member and a varying predetermined position of the actuated member. The actuator in response to the position error actuates the actuated member to eliminate the position error so that assist pressure to the servo assist system is varied as a function of the varying predetermined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Assignee: Aura Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: J. David Schwitalla
  • Patent number: 5129490
    Abstract: A shock absorber in which a damping force is to be adjusted separately for the tension and the compression directions in which the shock absorber is equipped with separate throttle valves, one for basic damping and one for supplementary damping. In the device, the adjustable parts of the two throttle valves are embodied in the form of magnetically controllable coaxial sheaths. This results in an especially space-saving design, the sheaths and magnetic coils which can be integrated directly into a piston (5) of the shock absorber. The device is used for damping relative motions of two masses, in particular in resilient wheel suspension systems in vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1992
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Walter Kuehle, Roland Moennings, Udo Neumann
  • Patent number: 5090441
    Abstract: A pressure operated valve includes an inlet and an outlet connected by a main valve having a valve diaphragm member that communicates with an operating pressure chamber. A pilot valve inlet port and a pilot valve outlet port also communicate with the operating pressure chamber. The inlet port is configured in the form of four circular slits of 0.004 to 0.007 inches width. The slits are formed by four pins of a pilot valve insert which fit into four bores in a valve body. Each pin has a ridge on its surface parallel to the pin axis, which pin locates and spaces the pin in the bore to form the slit. The slits are located flush with wall of the main inlet so that water rushing through the inlet washes particles off the slit. The pilot valve outlet port is sealed by an armature comprising a ferromagnetic sleeve and a flexible rubber core. A groove in the core receives the end of a lever which seals the pilot valve inlet port whenever the pilot valve outlet port is open and vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1992
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: James W. Richmond
  • Patent number: 5083590
    Abstract: The three-way valve has a chamber in the body which is adapted to provide a connection from an outlet passage to both inlet passages. One inlet passage is closed by a valve lid which bears on a valve seat and which functions as an automatic outlet valve when the armatures moves into a top position. The other valve lid moves independently in dependance on the inlet pressure of the second inlet passage and the pressure in the outlet passage. In the illustrated rest position, the armature acts by way of a convex closure member to press the lower valve lid onto a valve seat about the second inlet passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1992
    Assignees: Sulzer Brothers Ltd., Honeywell-Lucifer
    Inventors: Andre Gattolliat, Jean-Pierre Ramillon
  • Patent number: 5040567
    Abstract: The multi-way valve comprises two valve seats (12, 14) formed in the valve chamber whose seat surfaces are parallel. Two closing bodies (22, 24) cooperating with one of these valve seats (12, 14) respectively are attached to both ends of an elongated actuating member (20). To this actuating member (20) there is attached the one end of an elastic lamella (18) whose other end (18A) is braced at the valve chamber (10). The actuating member (20) may swivel rocker-like around a swivel axis (28) which is not fixed in space. Although no direct guide for the actuating member (20) is provided, a precise guiding largely free from tolerances is guaranteed so that the drive power required is low.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Assignee: Burkert GmbH & Company Werk Ingelfingen
    Inventors: Volker Nestler, Peter Tillman
  • Patent number: 5004162
    Abstract: In an injector adapted to deliver a charge of fuel and air directly into the combustion chamber of a two-stroke cycle engine, a single solenoid coil has an armature mechanism that sequentially opens both a fuel metering valve and a charge delivery valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1991
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Ernest R. Stettner, Donald D. Stoltman
  • Patent number: 4955583
    Abstract: A valve construction and method of making the same are provided, the valve construction comprising a housing, a valve seat carried by the housing, a movable lever carried by the housing and having an opening passing through opposed sides thereof, a valve member for opening and closing the valve seat and having a stem projecting through the opening of the lever whereby the valve member is carried by the lever, and a tubular member disposed in the opening of the lever and telescopically receiving the stem of the valve member therein whereby the tubular member spaces the stem from the lever at the opening thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 11, 1990
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventor: Harvey J. Shopsky
  • Patent number: 4840163
    Abstract: A fuel injection fuel supply system for a combustion engine has a fuel injector valve effective for metering and injecting all of the required fuel to the engine induction system; in one version a single valve functions to supply the required fuel in equal amounts to each of the combustion cylinders of the engine through chamber means exposed to superatmospheric air; an electromagnetic assembly having a magnetic open loop is used for cyclically opening and closing the injector valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1989
    Assignee: Colt Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel E. Alsobrooks, Hansueli Bart, Richard Chauvin, Thomas A. Horn, John H. Merte, Gerhard Mesenich, Donna M. Mitts
  • Patent number: 4796664
    Abstract: A two-axis force motor (10) has an armature (12) mounted within a body (11) for omni-directional pivotal movement relative to the body. The motor has an electrical section for causing the armature to pivot selectively in either or both of two mutually-perpendicular intersecting planes (x-x,y-y). The motor also has a fluidic section, which includes a plurality of valve members (64) spaced about the armature. These valve members are biased to engage the armature and are closed when the armature is in a null position. When the armature is pivoted off-null, some of the valve members will be opened, while others will remain closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Moog Inc.
    Inventor: Hans G. Toews
  • Patent number: 4790237
    Abstract: A damper for use in controlling the flow rate or direction of a flow of air or fumes flowing out from a room or space or flowing through a ventilation system, including a housing having at least one inlet opening. The housing has a tubular side wall in which are provided a plurality of outlet apertures opened and closed by associated closure members which are adapted to swing to and away from the side wall, preferable inwardly of the housing. The total flow area of the outlet apertures may be extended to a desired degree by increasing the axial length and diameter of the side wall of the housing, whereby the flow resistance and pressure drop across the damper are reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1988
    Assignees: Takenaka Corporation, Kyoritsu Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masashi Usuda, Kiyoshi Shimizu, Eiji Iwata, Hideo Yamada, Kazutaka Onozuka, Toshio Kuno, Hideo Kuno, Yukio Kuno
  • Patent number: 4790353
    Abstract: An electromagnetically actuated hydraulic switch unit is provided by an armature plunger which reciprocally shuttles between partially overlapping magnetic paths and operating a hydraulic valve circuit through bistable snap blade means. Snap blades open and close entry ports, exit ports and vent ports to connect various passages in a housing and perform given hydraulic functions. The ratio of the permeances of the two magnetic paths, created by dedicated coaxial coils, is controlled such that one path always overpowers the other by an amount greater than the mechanical gradients of a pair of snap blades in hydraulic fluid filled cavities, to insure plunger movement in either direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1988
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Jerome K. Hastings, James H. Bigelow, Gary Schultz
  • Patent number: 4773445
    Abstract: An improved solenoid poppet valve includes an endless magnetic gap loop which overlies the valve chamber. The axis of the poppet valve intersects the magnetic gap and can be self centered by the energizing of the solenoid. The valve chamber can be sealed from the solenoid coil and magnetic poles using a relatively thin isolating material which can be fully supported by the magnetic pole structure. A novel dual rate spring combination supports and centers the poppets in the valve chamber. The spring provides one force to maintained the valve in the closed position and a second, greater force to "kick" the poppet away from the magnetic poles when the solenoid is deenergized. In alternative embodiments, the valve of the present invention can control the flow of one or several fluids. Yet other embodiments can provide several valves to control the flow of a single fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1988
    Assignee: Kaiser Aerospace and Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Rudolf Visket
  • Patent number: RE34261
    Abstract: A solenoid valve includes a diaphragm assembly which isolates the fluid being controlled by the valve from the solenoid cell and the armature. The diaphragm assembly includes integrally formed poppet members and sealing rings which prevent misalignment of component parts. Force is applied by the armature on the diaphragm via a force ball which provides a central force and eliminates misalignment. In an alternative embodiment the force ball is eliminated and the diaphragm assembly is connected directly to the armature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1993
    Inventor: Akos Sule