With Valve Or Movable Deflector At Junction Patents (Class 137/872)
  • Patent number: 11267002
    Abstract: A faucet is provided with a diverter. The diverter includes a body, an inlet module, two outlet modules and a control module. The inlet module is connected to the body. The outlet module is connected to the body. The control module is connected to the body. The control module is operable to switch between directions and modes for supply water. Each of the modules includes a small number of components. The diverter can be taken apart for repair because the modules are not interconnected by ultrasonic welding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: Yuan Pin Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ming-Chih Hsieh
  • Patent number: 11246241
    Abstract: A movable media air handling unit includes cooling media panels that may be moved into or out of an airflow based on whether or not additional cooling is required from the movable cooling media panels. Moving the cooing media panels out of the air flow reduces flow restrictions/pressure drop through the movable media air handling unit. In some embodiments, various types of movable cooling media panels may be used, such as liquid coolant coil panels, gaseous coolant coil panels, evaporative cooling panels, or other types of panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Ross
  • Patent number: 10684059
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a refrigerator and a control method thereof. The present invention provides a refrigerator, comprising: a storage compartment; a refrigeration air passage configured to supply refrigeration air and comprising one or more refrigeration air outlets connected with the storage compartment such that a part or all of the refrigeration air in the refrigeration air passage is blown to the storage compartment via the one or more refrigeration air outlets; and a local air passage configured to receive refrigeration air from the refrigeration air passage and blow the received refrigeration air to a local area of the storage compartment in a concentrated manner. In addition, this invention also provides a control method of a refrigerator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignees: QINGDAO HAIER SPECIAL REFRIGERATOR CO., LTD., QINGDAO HAIER JOINT STOCK CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Haibo Tao, Shengyuan Nie, Ke Wang, Jianru Liu
  • Patent number: 10611209
    Abstract: The present teachings include a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit including an evaporator, a heater core, and an airflow control door. The heater core is arranged downstream of the evaporator with respect to a direction of airflow through the HVAC unit. The airflow control door is downstream of both the evaporator and the heater core. The airflow control door is movable to increase and decrease a cross-sectional area of an airflow path downstream of the temperature control door, such as to facilitate mixing of airflow that has passed through the heater core with airflow that has passed around the heater core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: DENSO International America, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Torok, Thurman Farley, II, Brett Wilson
  • Patent number: 10130959
    Abstract: A shower unit, comprises a water inlet assembly and a water outlet assembly mounted on a housing, water outlet channels are arranged on the water outlet assembly, a water inlet and a water outlet are formed in the water inlet assembly, two water inlet channels are arranged in the water inlet assembly, each water inlet channel can communicate with the water inlet and the water outlet independently, and the water outlet channels communicate with the water outlet to spray water; an electromagnetic valve is mounted in one water inlet channel, a circuit board mounted on the housing is electrically connected with a switch, each time the switch is pressed, the circuit board powers on and then powers off the electromagnetic valve after a set delay, which respectively opens and closes the water inlet channel. The water outflow rate of the shower unit can be changed rapidly, and has water-saving effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignee: KYLIN SANITARY TECHNOLOGY (XIAMEN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hai Huang Xiao, Cun Gui Lai, Qing Shuang Li, You Hui Lan, Hui Huang
  • Patent number: 10001070
    Abstract: One exemplary embodiment is a system comprising a multi-fuel engine structured to selectably combust varying proportions of a first type of fuel and a second type of fuel, and an electronic control system structured to control the provision of at least one of the first type of fuel and the second type of fuel to the engine using a multi-factor cost optimization. The multi-factor cost optimization may account for a plurality of factors including one or more environment factors, location factors, mission factors, warranty factors, operator-specified factors and/or fleet-specified factors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2018
    Assignee: Cummins Inc.
    Inventors: Vivek Anand Sujan, J. Stephen Wills, J. Steven Kolhouse, Anant Puri
  • Patent number: 9840834
    Abstract: The invention relates to a jet regulator (1) having an annular or sleeve-shaped jet regulator housing (2), on the outlet end side of which there is held an outlet disc (3) which can be inserted into the jet regulator housing (2), which (3) has a perforated, grid and/or mesh structure with throughflow openings (5), wherein the outlet disc (3) bears a manually deformable dimensionally elastic plastics lining (4), and wherein the plastics lining (4) is of pot-shaped design. In order to reduce the production expenditure, it is provided according to the invention that the plastics lining (4), with an upwardly drawn circumferential wall (16) of its pot shape, provides sealing between the outer circumference of the outlet disc (3) and the housing inner circumference of the jet regulator housing (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2017
    Assignee: NEOPERL GMBH
    Inventors: Gerhard Blum, Christoph Weis
  • Patent number: 9636968
    Abstract: A vehicle air conditioner includes an evaporator configured to cool air, a heater core provided on a downstream side of the evaporator, a plurality of doors provided between the evaporator and the heater core, and a central air path formed on the downstream side of the evaporator. The central air path is provided with a first door of the plurality of doors, and a first side air path formed on a first side of the central air path. The central air path is further provided with a second door of the plurality of doors, a second side air path formed on a second side of the central air path, and a third door of the plurality of doors. A sub-casing is configured to form the central air path, and a first division casing and a second division casing are configured to sandwich the sub-casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: CALSONIC KANSEI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yuki Makita, Shizuka Yanashima
  • Patent number: 8955549
    Abstract: A waterway switch device has a waterway mechanism, an execution part, an operation part and a transmission part. The waterway mechanism has a main body, and an inlet and a plurality of outlets are arranged on the main body. The execution part is mounted in the main body and has a moving piece, and at least the switch of the outlets to the inlet can be achieved through the relative movement between the moving piece and the main body. The operation part has a handle. The transmission part has a wire rope, one end of the wire rope is connected with the moving piece, the other end is connected with the handle in a transmission manner. The handle rotates relatively, and the wire rope is driven to move, and the moving piece can move relative to the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignees: Xiamen Solex High-Tech Industries Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Huasong Zhou, Yonghua Chen, Hui Huang, Dongying Cheng
  • Patent number: 8939175
    Abstract: A fluid delivery system has an inner pipe (10) and an outer pipe (12). The inner pipe (10) is fixed and the outer pipe (12) is slidable relative to the inner pipe (10) in an axial direction lengthwise of the inner pipe (10). The inner pipe (10) has an inlet (2) and an outlet (4). The outer pipe (12) has two outlets (6 and 8). The inlet (2) is connectable to a fluid source and the outlets are connectable to appliances such as a shower, bath or washbasin. The outer pipe (12) is slidable along the inner pipe (10) to connect selectively the inlet (2) to one or more of the outlets (4, 6, 8) individually or in combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Kohler Mira Limited
    Inventors: Benjamin Lea, Nigel Paul Sansum
  • Patent number: 8931519
    Abstract: A pin valve assembly and a method of controlling the flow of fluids comprising a pin block housing pin valves, a fluid plate with a fluid channel for fluidically communicating with the pin valves, and a fitting block housing fittings for fluidic communication with the fluid plate and for fluidic communication with fluidic components. The fluid flow through the channels of the fluid plate are controlled by the fluidic components and the pin valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Waters Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Russell Keene, David R. Friswell, Mark Moeller, Charles Murphy, Theodore D. Ciolkosz
  • Patent number: 8919379
    Abstract: A plug switch outlet mechanism has a first and second shower. The first shower includes a first switch mechanism inside and a socket outside a fixed unit, an outlet connected to the fixed unit; the fixed unit is disposed with two waterways and an inlet waterway connected to the external water source, one of the waterway is connected to the outlet, the socket is disposed with a switch, the switch is driving connected to the first switch mechanism for driving the first switch mechanism when touched to make the two waterways switched to connect to the inlet waterway; the second shower is connected to the other waterway, the second shower is coupled to the socket and can plug into the socket, when the second shower is inserted into the sockets or pulled away from the socket, the switch is touched.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignees: Xiamen Solex High-Tech Industries Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Huasong Zhou, Haisong Peng, Renzhong Li, Bin Chen
  • Patent number: 8863775
    Abstract: A flow path switching valve is disclosed that can be operated remotely simply by turning flow on and off. The switching valve may be incorporated into the body of a high pressure nozzle. In one embodiment a mid portion of the valve body has at least one passage therein leading from a central axial bore to first and second external ports. A poppet member received in the central axial bore directs fluid flow in a first position to the first external ports. The poppet member, when in a second position, closes the central axial bore through the outlet end of the valve body and permits fluid flow through the second set of external ports. Selection of the different flow paths is made by simply reducing flow through the valve below a predetermined fluid flow threshold and then increasing the flow rate above the threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Stonage, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald P. Zink, Neil C. O'Connor
  • Patent number: 8833314
    Abstract: A cooling system for a combustion engine (1) includes a pilot line (12) which has an inlet (12a) to receive coolant from a line (3) of the cooling system and a thermostat (6) a sensing element (6b) for monitoring the temperature of the coolant in the pilot line (12) and a valve (6a). A thermal device (13, 26, 31) in contact with the coolant in the pilot line (12) at a location upstream of the sensing element (6b). A control unit (15) estimates when it is appropriate to alter the coolant's operating temperature in the cooling system and, at such times, activates the thermal device (13, 26, 31) so that it warms or cools the coolant in the pilot line (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Scania CV AB
    Inventor: Hans Wikström
  • Patent number: 8746283
    Abstract: Faucet diverter valves for use, for example, with faucets and water filtration systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Aquasana, Inc.
    Inventors: Steffen Koury, James McGee, Chien Hun Yang
  • Publication number: 20140151281
    Abstract: A flow diverter device includes a diverter body. The diverter body defines therein two inlet channels and an outlet channel and includes a diverter valve defining therein a connecting channel. The diverter valve is movable between a first position wherein the connecting channel fluidly connects one of the inlet channels with the outlet channel only and a second position wherein the connecting channel fluidly connects the other of the inlet channels with the outlet channel only. The flow diverter device further includes a sleeve component including a secondary inlet channel and a secondary outlet channel. The sleeve component is connectable to the diverter body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Timothy Scott Shaffer, Michael Lee Alsip
  • Patent number: 8713936
    Abstract: One embodiment includes a housing (12) and a valve (10) to be used in an internal combustion engine exhaust breathing system (14). The housing (12) may define one or more inlet passages that receive fluid-flow, and may also define one or more outlet passages that deliver fluid-flow. The valve (10) regulates fluid-flow through the housing (12) and between the passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventor: Volker Joergl
  • Publication number: 20140083544
    Abstract: Certain embodiments described herein are directed to manifolds that comprise a moveable, internal sealing member that can be used to engage one or more ports of the manifold and prevent or reduce fluid flow from the engaged port into the manifold. In certain examples, the manifold can be used in a mass spectrometer to control fluid flow from an interface and a turbomolecular pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventors: Brian Chan, Hamid Badiei, James Botelho
  • Patent number: 8671990
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a vacuum valve apparatus and method to provide a vacuum to equipment. The vacuum valve can include an air port tube, a vacuum port tube, a motor, and a control arm coupled to the vacuum port tube and the motor. The motor can cause the control arm to move in an arc in order to flex the vacuum port tube and selectively create the vacuum and vent the vacuum provided to the equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Moog Inc.
    Inventors: William W. Griffith, Ronald Flanary, Jeffrey S. Terrell, Howard Keith Kidd, Kenneth Sowers
  • Patent number: 8667987
    Abstract: A flow path switching valve is disclosed that can be operated remotely simply by turning flow on and off. A mid portion of the body has at least one passage therein leading from a central axial bore to one or more external ports each having a tractor nozzle. The valve outlet connects the axial bore to a cleaning nozzle. A poppet member is received in the central axial bore. In a first position, the poppet member directs fluid flow through the outlet to the cleaning nozzle connected to the outlet. The poppet member, when in a second position, closes the central axial bore through the outlet end of the valve body and permits fluid flow through the tractor nozzles. Selection of the different flow paths is made by simply reducing flow through the valve below a predetermined fluid flow threshold and then increasing the flow rate above the threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Stoneage, Inc.
    Inventor: Gerald P. Zink
  • Patent number: 8657801
    Abstract: The invention provides a switching device for an irrigation system. The switching device provides selective communication between a supply port to which a supply of fluid under pressure can be attached and a balloon port to which a fixing balloon of a catheter can be attached, and between the supply port and a port to which a liquid reservoir can be attached. By use of a selection handle, the user can deform conduits in a pre-determined sequence and thus control an irrigation procedure by opening and closing fluid flow in various conduits. The invention further provides an irrigation device incorporating the switching device and a method of controlling a fluid flow e.g. in an irrigation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Coloplast A/S
    Inventors: Jakob Ilskov Nielsen, Jens Peter Bredholt, Alister David Morton, Klaus Sommer Ipsen, Henrik Jeppesen
  • Publication number: 20130263801
    Abstract: A thermostat apparatus may include a valve body including a first valve formed to open or close a first passage thereon, and a second valve integrally connected to the first valve and opening or closing a second passage, an elastic member that elastically biases the valve body toward the first passage such that the first valve closes the first passage and the second valve opens the second passage, and a drive member that selectively pushes the valve body toward the second passage such that the first valve opens the first passage and the second valve closes the second passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicants: Hyundai Motor Company, Inzicontrols Co., Ltd., Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Philgi LEE, Gyuhwan KIM, Jae Suk PARK, Yong Jeong KIM
  • Publication number: 20130221131
    Abstract: A sanitary fitting having an outlet contains an outlet end which is formed in a substantially tubular manner. In this tubular end there is arranged a shut-off valve having a cartridge, water flowing through the centre of said shut-off valve. A rotary shaft serves to rotate and thus actuate the valve cartridge. The rotary shaft is arranged and mounted inside a mounting sleeve which contains an outlet element at its outlet-side end. An external sleeve, which forms a flush continuation of the fitting housing, serves to rotate the rotary shaft. The sleeve is connected to the rotary shaft by a radial pin which engages through an arcuate slot that extends in the circumferential direction. When the sleeve is rotated, the position and setting of the outlet element remains the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: HANSGROHE SE
    Inventor: HANSGROHE SE
  • Patent number: 8448664
    Abstract: A fluid control device connected to a water pipe and having a mini water turbine and electrical generator combination for generating electricity by taking advantage of the water flow. The electricity is supplied to a temperature measurement member for measuring temperature of the water flowing through the device. The temperature in the form of electrical signal is sent to an LCD panel and circuit assembly for showing so as to visually alert a person using the tap water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Fujian Xihe Sanitary Ware Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xiaofa Lin, Xiaoshan Lin
  • Patent number: 8418720
    Abstract: A water diverting device comprises an inlet, two outlets, an upper and a lower sealing seats respectively for the outlets. The device further comprises a water diverting switch that fits with the sealing seats and used to switch over the outlets. The switch includes a sliding shaft and fixed base with a sliding through hole. The switch is provided with a retaining hook for holding the sliding shaft up and down direction. On the surface of the sliding shaft, there are the first and second stop positions for the hook part of the hook, first and second unidirectional slide channels. The switch has a spring pushing the shaft from its head towards its tail. The head of the shaft connects with a valve core, and positions of the sealing seats correspond with travel of the valve core. The water discharge direction is changed over by a diverting switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Ningbo Bosheng Plumbing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Difeng Cen
  • Publication number: 20130048087
    Abstract: Described herein is a graywater separation valve assembly that includes a main body portion, a valve mechanism remotely operable by a user, a motor operatively connected to the valve mechanism, a receiver in electrical communication with the motor, and a remote control that includes a transmitter in communication with the receiver and for operating the valve mechanism. The main body portion includes an inlet, which, in use, is connected to a graywater source, a first outlet, which, in use, is connected to a sewer line, and a second outlet, which, in use, is connected to a graywater line. The inlet, first outlet and second outlet all comprise no hub connectors. The remote control is operable to cause graywater received through the inlet to pass through either the first outlet or the second outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: Garry SATO
  • Patent number: 8347831
    Abstract: A control valve for a fluid flow circuit comprises a body that has a fluid inlet and at least two fluid outlets (20, 22, 24) and that defines an axisymmetric housing for a modulating member capable of rotating about an axis of rotation (XX) and adopting different angular positions to control the distribution of the fluid through the outlets. The body comprises a side wall (16) into which the fluid outlets open. The side wall (16) and/or the modulating member comprises sunken areas (EV) and non-sunken areas (CR), the sunken areas (EV) serving to reduce the surface area of the modulating member (26) in contact with the side wall (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Valeo Systemes Thermiquest
    Inventors: Frederic Vacca, Christían Durupt
  • Publication number: 20120199210
    Abstract: A valve with a shuttle for use in a flow management system includes a spill port and bypasses a backflow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Inventor: Lawrence Osborne
  • Patent number: 8210442
    Abstract: A system and method for conserving water in a hot and cold water system collects hot water that is discharged prior to the water reaching a desired temperature. A receptacle is disposed for receipt of cold and hot water from a water system, and a drain line is configured with the receptacle to drain water from the receptacle to a first collection site. A diverter valve is configured in the drain line and operates between a first position wherein water from the receptacle is directed to the first collection site, and a second position wherein water from the receptacle is directed to a branch line. A temperature activated valve is provided, and a second collection site disposed downstream of the temperature activated valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventor: Christopher Sharp Bondura
  • Publication number: 20120125464
    Abstract: A fluid delivery system has an inner pipe (10) and an outer pipe (12). The inner pipe (10) is fixed and the outer pipe (12) is slidable relative to the inner pipe (10) in an axial direction lengthwise of the inner pipe (10). The inner pipe (10) has an inlet (2) and an outlet (4). The outer pipe (12) has two outlets (6 and 8). The inlet (2) is connectable to a fluid source and the outlets are connectable to appliances such as a shower, bath or washbasin. The outer pipe (12) is slidable along the inner pipe (10) to connect selectively the inlet (2) to one or more of the outlets (4, 6, 8) individually or in combination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventors: Benjamin Lea, Nigel Sansum
  • Patent number: 8176737
    Abstract: An exhaust system for a use with a combustion engine is provided. The exhaust system may have a first exhaust manifold, a second exhaust manifold, and an exhaust gas recirculation circuit. The exhaust system may also have a fixed geometry turbocharger with a first volute configured to receive exhaust from the first exhaust manifold, and a second volute configured to receive exhaust from the second exhaust manifold. The exhaust system may also have a recirculation control valve in fluid communication with the first exhaust manifold, the second exhaust manifold and the exhaust gas recirculation circuit. The recirculation control valve may have a valve element movable to selectively adjust a flow of exhaust in the exhaust gas recirculation circuit, the first volute, and the second volute.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: David Andrew Pierpont, John Parker Timmons, William L. Easley, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120000632
    Abstract: A forced fluid switch including a first plenum in communication with a first port; a second plenum in communication with a second port; a third plenum in switched communication with the first plenum and the second plenum and in communication with a third port; a fourth plenum in switched communication with the first plenum and the second plenum and in communication with a fourth port; and wherein the forced fluid switch has at least a first forced fluid path and a second forced fluid path, wherein in the first forced fluid path, the third plenum is in communication with the first plenum and the fourth plenum is in communication with the second plenum, and wherein in the second forced fluid path, the third plenum is in communication with the second plenum and the fourth plenum is in communication with the first plenum. A method is provided for switching forced fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: MRL Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin B. PECK
  • Patent number: 8069655
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for delivering a dosant with engine exhaust. The apparatus includes a flow-rate regulator disposed downstream from an engine exhaust manifold that operates to control a fraction of exhaust from the engine exhaust manifold. The apparatus also includes a doser disposed downstream of the flow-rate regulator that provisions a supply of dosant to the path of the controlled fraction of exhaust, which atomizes, vaporizes, disperses, mixes with, and/or delivers the dosant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Cummins Filtration IP, Inc.
    Inventors: John T. Carroll, III, Laszlo D. Tikk
  • Publication number: 20110170962
    Abstract: A pneumatic conveying system is disclosed for conveying a granular product, such as grain, from a grain inlet device to a selected one of a plurality of grain bins or other storage vessels. The system includes a blower for forcing air under pressure into a conveyor piping system. A grain inlet device is located downstream from the blower. The piping system has a portion leading from the grain inlet to an inlet in a first one of the vessels. A discharge/bypass valve is connected to a portion of the piping system leading from the grain inlet so as to receive the granular product being conveyed therethrough with the valve having a discharge outlet for discharging the granular product into the vessel. The valve is installed on the vessel such that the discharge outlet is in communication with the interior of the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: THE GSI GROUP, L.L.C.
    Inventors: L. Michael Watson, Robert C. Brush
  • Patent number: 7954508
    Abstract: An electronically controlled actuator in a plumbed water line within a water conditioning management system, having an at least one valve with a valve stem in a plumbed water line within the water conditioning management system, an at least one actuator, an at least one actuator housing, an at least one electronic controller in communication with the actuator, an at least one shaft coupled to the actuator and said valve; an at least one shaft encoding device; and an at least one user interface with multiple indicator elements indicating the position of valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: KBK Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Doyle, Keith Schulte, Bruce Johnson
  • Publication number: 20110036411
    Abstract: The invention provides a device, system, and method for isolating one or more sample components of a sample material following separation of the sample material into a plurality of sample components. The device includes first and second pinching channels, a separation channel extending between the first and second pinching channels, a collection leg that includes a collection well, and a waste leg, all of which are in fluid communication with a switching region. In the method, a sample material is separated into a plurality of separated components in the device, and one or more of the separated components are isolated in the collection well. The separated components are constrained and elongated in the switching region by first and second buffer streams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2010
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: CALIPER LIFE SCIENCES, INC.
    Inventors: JOSH MOLHO, HUI XU, JORGE J. ZANINOVICH
  • Publication number: 20110036436
    Abstract: A water conducting household appliance having at least one water supply line to supply the household appliance with water from a water network; an inlet valve arrangement connected to the water supply line and the water network; and a backflow prevention apparatus arranged in the inlet valve arrangement. The backflow prevention apparatus allows water to flow only in the direction of the household appliance and prevents water to flow in the direction of the water network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: BSH BOSCH UND SIEMENS HAUSGERATE GMBH
    Inventors: Werner Haltmayer, Bruno Reiter
  • Publication number: 20110036435
    Abstract: A water-conveying domestic appliance having at least one water inlet pipe to supply the domestic appliance with water from a water network. A backflow prevention apparatus is connected in the water inlet pipe, enables water supply only in the direction of the domestic appliance, and prevents a backflow of water in the direction of the water network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2010
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH
    Inventors: Werner Haltmayer, Anton Oblinger
  • Publication number: 20100263637
    Abstract: Disclosed is an intake pipe for a combustion engine, comprising a housing (1) with a supply duct (2) for especially compressed air, a heat exchanger (8) which is disposed within a main duct (4) in the housing (1) and through which the air can flow in order to exchange heat with a fluid, and a bypass duct (5) that is separated from the main duct (4) in at least some sections and is fitted with at least one positioning element (7) to allow the fed air to adjustably bypass the heat exchanger (8). An end of the bypass duct (5) on the engine side is placed at a still flow-relevant short distance from an opening (11) of an intake valve (10) of the combustion engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventors: Rolf Müller, Eberhard Pantow, Michael Spieth
  • Publication number: 20100252135
    Abstract: Multi-fuel carburetors and related methods are provided for a combustion engine. A multi-fuel carburetor can include at least two fuel nozzles for providing fuel from a fuel source to a carburetor barrel to produce a mixture of fuel and air. A fuel control device movable with respect to at least one of the fuel nozzles can be used to selectively adjust the amount of fuel that can be drawn through that nozzle, thereby desirably adjusting the air/fuel ratio of the mixture produced in the carburetor barrel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Ryan S. Moxley
  • Publication number: 20100240022
    Abstract: The technology described in this disclosure is a combination of controlled and precise ‘reagent delivery’ integrated together with controlled liquid flow through a sample processing device used for generating a desired chemical or biological reaction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Michael R. McNeely
  • Publication number: 20100200071
    Abstract: A flow splitter (10) that is uniquely characterized by the use of two diaphragm valves in a single valve body that are arranged in opposition to one another. The diaphragm valves are coupled together for common movement by a coupler, such that the flow rate through respective outlets is a function of the position of either diaphragm valve. That is, the position of one valve is a function of the position of the other valve, and vice versa. With this construction a single actuator can control the ratio of total flow that will be delivered to each of two outlet ports. Moreover, such construction eliminates the need for thermal or pressure sensors and thus the drawbacks associated therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventor: Daniel P. Morgan
  • Publication number: 20100193049
    Abstract: A system and method for conserving water in a hot and cold water system collects hot water that is discharged prior to the water reaching a desired temperature. A receptacle is disposed for receipt of cold and hot water from a water system, and a drain line is configured with the receptacle to drain water from the receptacle to a first collection site. A diverter valve is configured in the drain line and operates between a first position wherein water from the receptacle is directed to the first collection site, and a second position wherein water from the receptacle is directed to a branch line. A temperature activated valve is provided, and a second collection site disposed downstream of the temperature activated valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher Sharp Bondura
  • Publication number: 20100043895
    Abstract: A valve arrangement for placing a supply of motive fluid in alternating communication with first and second motive fluid chambers. The valve arrangement includes a power valve including a supply chamber, a pilot chamber, and a shiftable member separating the supply chamber from the pilot chamber. The valve arrangement also includes a pilot valve actuable between an on condition in which the pilot valve generates a pilot signal that shifts the power valve, and an off condition in which the pilot valve does not generate the pilot signal. At least a portion of the pilot valve is exposed to motive fluid, and the portion of the pilot valve exposed to motive fluid includes surface areas giving rise to a net zero actuating force arising from pressure of the motive fluid. Because there is no biasing force on the pilot valve, the pilot valve is shifted between the on and off conditions without significant resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Applicant: INGERSOLL-RAND COMPANY
    Inventor: Lloyd I. Towne
  • Publication number: 20090288724
    Abstract: A valve comprises an inlet portion configured to couple to a source of a fluid, and a body portion in fluidic communication with the inlet portion. The body portion defines a modulated flow path and a constant flow path adjacent to the modulated flow path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventor: Peter Bizzarro
  • Publication number: 20090288723
    Abstract: A valve device includes: a valve housing defining a cylindrical space connected to a high-pressure source, and having a first communication hole open at a valve seat located at a bottom portion of the valve housing and providing fluid communication between the cylindrical space and a low-pressure source; a seal member arranged in the cylindrical space and providing or shutting off fluid communication between the high-pressure and low-pressure sources so that the seal member moves away from or contacts the valve seat; and a stem having an accommodating recess at one end of the stem and moved axially. The seal member is fitted and held in the accommodating recess. The seal member has a second communication hole that provides fluid communication between a bottom face of the accommodating recess and the low-pressure source when the seal member is in contact with the valve seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: JTEKT Corporation
    Inventors: Kazushi Numazaki, Takuya Suzuki, Munetoshi Kuroyanagi
  • Publication number: 20090007978
    Abstract: An HVAC diverter valve including a diverter valve body. The diverter valve body includes an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The HVAC diverter valve further includes a flow constrictor assembly, and at least one motor adapted to adjust the flow constrictor assembly to divert air entering the inlet to the first and second outlet and maintain a substantially constant backpressure in front of the valve during air diversion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventors: Gerald Allen Alston, Machiko Taylor, Justin Richard Dobbs
  • Publication number: 20080230132
    Abstract: The present invention provides several embodiments of manifolds and distribution assemblies, having a manifold main body or multiple interconnecting tubular members and multiple connectors and/or valves which are unitary with the main body or tubular members. Some of the manifolds have four connectors in a common plane at right-angle intervals. For metal manifold assemblies, required pipe fittings and ball valves are welded, brazed or silver-soldered directly to the main body of the manifold. For polymeric plastic assemblies, chemical bonding of components is utilized. A distribution assembly made of metal or polymeric plastic, and having valves and connectors that are unitary is also disclosed. Intersecting tubular members can be cast or injection molded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: LeRoy Frank Cowan
  • Patent number: 7424995
    Abstract: A valve is provided. The valve includes a plunger, a chamber having a first region and a second region where the plunger moves back and forth, a first electromagnet and a second electromagnet which are located around the first region and the second region to apply a magnetic field to the plunger, a fluid inlet through which a fluid enters into the chamber, located between the first region and the second region of the chamber, and a second fluid outlet located on a vertical end part of the second region away from the first region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kwang-wook Oh, Kak Namkoong
  • Publication number: 20080099092
    Abstract: A splitter valve comprising an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve both having orifices. The relative position of these elements determines the split of the flow. The orifices are configured so that the relative split between the two streams has a linear relationship with the relative position of the inner element and outer sleeve. A perforate plate is provided across at least one outlet to laminarise the flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Applicant: MICROGEN ENERGY LIMITED
    Inventors: Stephen Michael Hasko, James Robert Lowrie, David Anthony Clark