Single Inlet With Multiple Distinctly Valved Outlets Patents (Class 137/883)
  • Patent number: 8944090
    Abstract: A bypass valve assembly for use with a multi-speed pool pump is disclosed. The bypass valve assembly includes a housing having a inlet port, a high-pressure (HP) with a HP canal opening between the inlet port and the HP port, and a low-pressure (LP) port with a LP canal opening between the inlet port and the LP port. The bypass valve assembly also includes a HP valve assembly within the housing. The HP valve assembly includes a high-pressure seal movable between a HP sealed position responsive to a LP head and a HP open position responsive to a LP head. The bypass valve assembly also includes a LP valve assembly comprising a LP seal movable between a LP sealed position that seals the LP canal opening responsive to a HP head and a LP open position responsive to a LP head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: GSG Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Dominic Conn
  • Patent number: 8925588
    Abstract: Flow distribution networks that supply process gas to two or more stations in a multi-station deposition chamber. Each flow distribution network includes an inlet and flow distribution lines for carrying process gas to the stations. The flow distribution lines include a branch point downstream from the inlet and two or more branches downstream from the branch point. Each branch supplies a station. The flow distribution network also includes highly variable flow elements in each branch. Restrictive components are placed downstream from the variable control elements in each branch. These restrictive components are nominally identical and designed to shift the bulk of the pressure drop away from the variable flow components to improve flow balancing while not unduly increasing inlet pressure. In some cases, the load shifting allows the more variable flow components to operate in the unchoked flow regime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Novellus Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Womack, Stephen Lau
  • Publication number: 20150000776
    Abstract: A flow adjusting apparatus adjusts the flow rate of a fluid flowing in a plurality of tubes. The flow adjusting apparatus includes a tube coupling joint having a joint body and a plurality of engaging lugs. The joint body has a plurality of connection holes for connecting the tubes, respectively. The engaging lugs are mounted on the inner circumferential surfaces of the connection holes of the joint body and engage the outer circumferential surfaces of the tubes, respectively. The flow adjusting apparatus further includes a plurality of inner sleeves having outer diameters respectively corresponding to the inner diameters of the tubes. The inner sleeves increase the engaging forces of the engaging lugs against the outer circumferential surfaces of the tubes inserted in the connection holes of the joint body. The inner sleeves have different inner diameters to produce different flow rates of the fluid flowing in the tubes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Takeshi Sunagawa
  • Publication number: 20140374125
    Abstract: A flow control assembly for a fire sprinkler system includes a valve housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The valve housing defines a fluid flow path that extends between the inlet opening and the outlet opening. A flow control valve is disposed within the fluid flow path. A swing check valve is disposed within the fluid flow path of the valve housing downstream from the flow control valve. The swing check valve includes a clapper that is connected to an actuator arm. An electrical switch is disposed outside of the valve housing. A mechanical linkage includes a first end that extends through the valve housing and engages with the actuator arm. The mechanical linkage also includes a second end that is coupled to the electrical switch. The first end translates with said actuator arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventor: AUGUSTUS W. JOHNSON
  • Patent number: 8910665
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for bypassing a positioner in an active control loop are described. An example actuator assembly includes a pneumatic actuator and a transfer station. The transfer station includes a body defining flow paths that enable fluid to flow between a supply pressure, a valve positioner, and the pneumatic actuator and between the supply pressure and the pneumatic actuator to bypass the valve positioner without disrupting a process loop including the valve positioner. The transfer station also includes a plurality of fluid flow control devices to control the fluid flow through the flow paths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
    Inventors: Perry Keith Carter, Bruce Frederick Grumstrup
  • Patent number: 8893738
    Abstract: A heat transfer apparatus and related methods are provided. The heat transfer apparatus and related methods more evenly distribute fluid flow in two-phase heat exchange systems by restricting fluid flow to one or more tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Bradley University
    Inventors: John Seeli, David Zietlow
  • Patent number: 8869835
    Abstract: A dual valve construction partners first and second valve portions with a mechanical linkage such as gears to operably couple the control stems together. The gears need not be identical and in fact a first gear may have flats so that motion of the first gear need not always move the second gear proportionally. Furthermore, the gears may have differing gear ratios at different portion of the gears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Burner Systems International, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Sapp, Timothy Frost
  • Publication number: 20140299198
    Abstract: A multi-end connector adaptor comprising a main pipe run having a main pipe run connector flange located at the inlet end of the main pipe run; and outlet ends of first and second transverse auxiliary pipe runs having a ball valve type end connector flange comprising a flow bore through the respective flange and an annular landing recessed in the respective flange around the flow bore to receive a seat ring for sealing against a flow control element of a ball valve. Multiport severe service ball valve assemblies, systems comprising the multi-end connector adaptors and methods of use are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventors: Timothy Way Diehl, Duc Thanh Tran
  • Publication number: 20140299213
    Abstract: A valve system oriented for an irrigation system which is activated by a control unit is disclosed. The system comprises a solenoid switch and a manual switch, wherein an electrical wire extends from the valve to the control unit. The manual switch operates as a hand handling rotating lever; another use of manual switch is to serve as a means to force close the solenoid valve's outlet opening so as to provide a mechanism responsive to preventing automatic opening of solenoid valve controlled by control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2013
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventor: Chi-Han Cheng
  • Patent number: 8844567
    Abstract: A manifold, for a refrigeration system, includes a body comprising a bore hole extending through the body, and a plurality of ports including a first process port for adding and removing refrigerant, and a first side port for mechanical connection thereto. The manifold also includes a first ball valve disposed in the body, between the first process port and the first side port. The first ball valve includes a ball recess aligned with the bore hole through the body, and a ball port extending generally transverse to the ball recess and in fluid connection therewith. The ball port includes a narrow end and wider end. The first ball valve is moveable between an open position in which the ball port is aligned with the first side port and the first side port is in fluid connection with the bore hole through the body, and a closed position in which the ball port is out of alignment with the first side port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventor: Douglas Lloyd Lockhart
  • Patent number: 8844573
    Abstract: A valve arrangement controls brake devices and auxiliary devices of a pneumatic brake system of a vehicle, and includes pneumatic control valves which are detachably arranged on at least one common support module containing compressed air channels, for carrying out braking functions or auxiliary braking functions of the brake system. The valve arrangement also includes several adjacently arranged block-shaped support modules having at least the same height and depth measurements and including channel sections forming common longitudinal channels when all of the support modules are adjacently arranged in a row. At least one unit hole receives a control valve embodied as a cartridge valve and arranged on a front side of each support module to enable switching the compressed air flow between inner channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Knorr-Bremse Systeme fur Schienenfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventors: Hartmut Mann, Steffen Krasselt, Jörg-Johannes Wach
  • Patent number: 8840752
    Abstract: Disclosed are a flow path switching apparatus and a fluid processing apparatus having a liquid processing unit that performs a processing by supplying different kinds of processing fluid to wafer W at different timings. The atmosphere of the liquid processing unit is discharged fluid to a plurality of exclusive exhaust paths through exhaust paths and flow path switching units. A flow path switching unit includes an outer tube having a plurality of connection holes and a rotary tube inserted into the outer tube having a plurality of openings. In particular, one of the plurality of openings of the rotary tube is aligned with one of the plurality of connection holes of the outer tube in such a way that only an aligned set of an opening of the rotary tube and a connection hole of the outer tube is sequentially communicated during the rotation of the rotary tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Nobuhiro Ogata, Shuichi Nagamine, Kenji Kiyota
  • Publication number: 20140261695
    Abstract: Apparatus for providing natural gas from an external gas source to multiple engines disposed upon multiple carries includes a gas supply conduit mounted upon each carrier. Each gas supply conduit has a connector conduit engaged at one end therewith and being releasably engageable at the other end with the gas supply conduit of another carrier or the gas source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Pierce Gregory Dehring, Blake Burnette
  • Patent number: 8789561
    Abstract: A manifold (100) comprising an inlet port (102) for receiving a fluid flow, said inlet port defining a flow passage (122); a plurality of outlet ports (104-114); wherein some of the outlet ports are provided with direct communication with said flow passage (122); and the ports being connected by auxiliary passages adapted to convey fluid between said outlet ports to reduce stagnation pressure zones and maintain desired pressure distribution at each outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Automatic Switch Company
    Inventors: Frank A Ferrarese, Shailesh N Khatavkar, Rajesh R Salikeri
  • Patent number: 8752587
    Abstract: An ice blocking apparatus for preventing ice blockage of a sump pump discharge line. The apparatus is mounted to an external wall of a building and includes a housing having lower and upper openings, a discharge line connection segment fluidly coupled with the sump pump discharge line, an expeller segment including lower and upper pipe segments fluidly coupled with discharge segment, and first and second doors pivotably mounted to the housing and covering the lower and upper openings of the housing. The lower pipe segment is fluidly coupled with the lower opening in the housing, and the upper pipe segment is fluidly coupled with the upper opening in the housing. When ice is not blocking the lower opening of the housing, fluid from a sump pump flows through the lower opening, and when ice is blocking the lower opening, fluid flows through the upper opening of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Dry Basement, Inc.
    Inventors: Curtis Bramble, Otto W. Fleck, Lowell Hickman
  • Publication number: 20140144535
    Abstract: A valve assembly controls the flow of fluid at very low pressures of about 5 psi or less to and from inflatable chambers. Each valve assembly has a plurality of valves that operate between a closed and an open position. A first conduit or channel directs the fluid to each of the valves; and a plurality of second conduits each associated with one of the plurality of valves communicates with an inflatable chamber. Each of the valves has a valve seat and a valve stem with a head that seats on, or with, the valve seat to effect a seal in the closed position. The valve stem has a portion positioned to be moved by the solenoid when activated. The separate valves also act as relief valves. A vent valve is also provided and configured to operate between open and closed positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: Bend Tech, LLC
    Inventors: Jules A. deGreef, David B. Beck, Corey B. Welch
  • Publication number: 20140131399
    Abstract: The valve includes a female part having a closed, transverse, proximal end wall, and a tubular wall integral with a flange part, a lateral opening being formed on the proximal section of the tubular wall, a male part having a tubular wall forming, on the proximal side, a closing/opening part having an open, transverse, proximal end; the closing/opening part has an external shape and an external dimension that fit the internal shape and internal dimension of the proximal receiving part of the female part. The sealing elements include three ring seals separated from one another in an axial direction, supported by the upper surface of the tubular wall of the male part and engaging with the female part, a proximal seal to the fluid product, a distal seal to external contaminants, and an intermediate seal to the fluid product and to external contaminants between the proximal and distal seals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Sartorius Stedim FMT SAS
    Inventors: Florian Blake, Jeremy Gibelin
  • Patent number: 8707990
    Abstract: A removable manifold for use with an air compressor unit having a main feed hose for dispensing compressed air, the manifold including a body, a hub disposed on the body defining a hub chamber, an inlet disposed on the body, the inlet defining an inlet chamber in fluid communication with the hub chamber, and the inlet being configured to engage the main feed hose, thereby providing fluid communication between the air compressor unit and the hub chamber, and an outlet disposed on the body, and defining an outlet chamber in fluid communication with the hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Mat Industries, LLC
    Inventor: Kurt Richard Beckman
  • Patent number: 8707997
    Abstract: Provided is a fluid device unit structure in which a chemical solution stagnation portion that is formed between a valve of a main fluid flow path and a branching point of a return flow path is minimized to cause hardly any solidification of a chemical solution. In the fluid device unit structure in which a plurality of fluid devices that are connected via flow paths are integrated on a base member (10) to form a single unit, and the main fluid flow path (11) and the return flow path (12) formed in the base member (10) are respectively provided with a first valve (20) and a second valve (40) for switching the flow paths, the branching inlet (12a) at which the return flow path (12) branches from the main fluid flow path (11) is close to the upstream side of the first valve (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Surpass Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroki Igarashi
  • Patent number: 8631824
    Abstract: An apparatus, method and system provides for dispensing liquid products to two or more appliances. Liquid diluent is communicated through an anti-siphon valve (64) connected in fluid communication to an aspirator (14). A mixed solution from the aspirator (14) is communicated to a distribution valve (36) for directing flow of a liquid product to two or more appliances using a single aspirating dispenser (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: John Thomas Pelkey, Richard Jondall Mehus, Ryan Jacob Urban, Nicholas Donald Parent, Scott Russell Limback
  • Publication number: 20140014213
    Abstract: A manifold for use with an applicator assembly is provided. The manifold includes a base having at least a first proximal extension and a distal extension. The at least first proximal extension includes an outer flange and an inner flange and defines a recess therebetween. The manifold further includes at least a first connection member securely affixed to the first proximal extension. The first connection member includes an annular flange configured to be received within the recess of the at least first proximal extension and the annular flange defines a proximal cavity. The manifold further includes at least a first seal member received within the proximal cavity between the first proximal extension and the first connection member. The seal member is configured to permit flow through the manifold in a first direction and obstruct flow through the manifold in a second direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventor: Les Hull
  • Publication number: 20130333778
    Abstract: A manifold (100) comprising an inlet port (102) for receiving a fluid flow, said inlet port defining a flow passage (122); a plurality of outlet ports (104-114); wherein some of the outlet ports are provided with direct communication with said flow passage (122); and the ports being connected by auxiliary passages adapted to convey fluid between said outlet ports to reduce stagnation pressure zones and maintain desired pressure distribution at each outlet port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: AUTOMATIC SWITCH COMPANY
    Inventors: Frank A. Ferrarese, Shailesh N. Khatavkar, Rajesh R. Salikeri
  • Patent number: 8602687
    Abstract: This design addresses the problems in areas below sea level adjacent to coastal communities with shallow canals/inlets with high tides/surges entering the discharge piping outlets arranged for normal average mean sea levels from pumping stations with outflow into a reservoir/body i.e., lake, river or waterway that is affected during storms, hurricanes or heavy rains driven by winds and high tides that render pumping inefficient at least and/or inoperable at worst. Included in this design is an inlet of a manifold connected to the pump's discharge, a normal discharge outlet and a second optional bypass discharge piping outlet, elevated over or through a high wall. Also included is automatic/manual shutoff valves and variable speed drive motor. The bypass discharge outlet includes, prior to the distal end, an ancillary piping arrangement that allows portions of the discharge flow directed back into underground aquifers for water table replenishment to aid subsidence maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: Paul J. Hubbell, Jr.
  • 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: 8555926
    Abstract: A supply manifold for a hydronic heating or cooling system has a housing a plurality of valves disposed on respective outlets of the housing in a linear arrangement. Each outlet is adapted to connect to a conduit for delivering the liquid to a zone. Each valve controls a flow of the heating or cooling liquid into each respective conduit. The supply manifold has a single actuator for individually actuating one of the valves. A first displacement mechanism, e.g. a screw drive power by an electric motor, displaces the actuator along a longitudinal axis parallel to the linear arrangement of the valves to thereby access any one of the valves. A second displacement mechanism, e.g. a solenoid, displaces the actuator orthogonally to the longitudinal axis to thereby cause engagement or disengagement of the actuator with a selected one of the valves for opening or closing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventors: Malcolm MacDuff, James MacDuff
  • Publication number: 20130256573
    Abstract: A throttle device for varying the pressure of a fluid in a plurality of parallel outlets includes a fluid collector having at least an internal chamber, an inlet and a plurality of outlets for the fluid, and a control element displaceably mounted in the internal chamber of the fluid collector and comprises a plurality of orifices, the cross-section of which can be varied by a relative movement of the control element in relation to the fluid collector. The control element is a sleeve, wherein the orifices are disposed in the sleeve such that they correspond to the outlets of the fluid collector, wherein between the sleeve and the fluid collector seals are provided, such that in a region between of an outside surface of the sleeve and an inside surface surrounding the internal chamber of the fluid collector no fluid communication takes place between the orifices of the sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Birger Klitzing, Thomas Telgen, Bernhard Stockfisch, Florian Seffrin, Klaus Hoffmann
  • Publication number: 20130247997
    Abstract: A water heating system having a system inlet pipe (1.002), a hot water delivery pipe (1.003) and a hot water return pipe (1.006) connected to a building hot water distribution network (1.024); the water heating system including one or more water heaters (1.001), the or each water heater having a heater inlet (1.022) and a heater outlet (1.023), a hot water return pipe (1.006) connected between the system inlet and delivery outlet via the building hot water distribution network to form a close loop hot water supply-return circuit; a pump (1.005) connected to circulate water through the hot water supply-return circuit whereby the pump can circulate water through one or more of the water heaters; a valve means (1.007) [a first non-return valve] adapted to prevent inlet water (water delivered to the system inlet) from flowing into the hot water return pipe or the building hot water distribution network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: Rheem Australia Pty Limited
    Inventors: Wilson Ng, David Micallef
  • Patent number: 8522824
    Abstract: An aseptic or sanitary diaphragm valve has a valve body and at least one cylinder-actuated valve mechanism. A chamber is defined between a cylinder head and a plate or disk, which has a central bore or passage. A flexible diaphragm extends across the cylinder below the plate or disk. A piston within a cylinder is connected with a valve member foot portion, with a stem passing from the foot portion, penetrating the diaphragm, and passing through the bor or passage to the piston. A compression spring urges the piston to either its raised or lowered position, and air pressure may be used to lower or to raise the piston and the associated valve foot. An aperture in the cylinder can reveal a compromise of the diaphragms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Feldmeier Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert H. Feldmeier
  • Patent number: 8522670
    Abstract: A hydraulic circuit for instant beverage machines includes a tank, a water extraction pipe contained in the tank, a flow-meter connected to the extraction pipe, a pump, a first vibration-damping valve, a boiler, a second relief and safety valve, a water/steam faucet, a third beverage flow valve, and a recovery tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Stefano Tonelli, Massimo Lelli
  • Publication number: 20130224321
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the pelletization of plastics and/or polymers, in which a melt coming from a melt generator is supplied via a diverter valve having different operating positions to a plurality of pelletizing heads through which the melt is pelletized. The plurality of pelletizing heads have different throughput capacities and are used sequentially for the start-up of the pelletizing process, with the melt first being supplied to a first pelletizing head having a smaller throughput capacity and then the melt volume flow being increased and the diverter valve being switched over such that the melt is diverted by the diverter valve to a second pelletizing head having a larger throughput capacity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: GALA INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: GALA INDUSTRIES, INC.
  • Patent number: 8479758
    Abstract: New methods and devices for reducing water consumption by restricting the supply pressures at the water consumption points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Softatalo Aida Oy
    Inventor: Juhani Aalto
  • Patent number: 8469059
    Abstract: A fluid divider valve includes a housing defining a longitudinal bore having a fluid inlet. The housing defines a plurality of outlets in fluid communication with the longitudinal bore. A valve shaft is sealingly engaged within the longitudinal bore of the housing. The valve shaft has an internal longitudinal flow passage in fluid communication with the fluid inlet of the housing. The valve shaft has a plurality of radial fluid ports formed therein which extend from the internal longitudinal flow passage to an exterior portion of the valve shaft. The valve shaft is mounted for movement relative to the housing between a first position in which the valve shaft permits fluid communication between the fluid inlet and each of the outlets simultaneously through the radial fluid ports of the valve shaft, and a second position in which the valve shaft prevents fluid communication between the fluid inlet and the outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Delavan Inc.
    Inventor: Michael John Forst
  • Patent number: 8397763
    Abstract: A valve assembly controls the flow of fluid at very low pressures of about 5 psi or less to and from inflatable chambers. Each valve assembly has a plurality of valves that operate between a closed and an open position. A first conduit or channel directs the fluid to each of the valves; and a plurality of second conduits each associated with one of the plurality of valves communicates with an inflatable chamber. Each of the valves has a valve seat and a valve stem with a head that seats on or with the valve seat to effect a seal in the closed position. The valve stem has a portion positioned to be moved by the solenoid when activated. The separate valves also act as relief valves. A vent valve is also provided and configured to operate between open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Bend Tech, LLC
    Inventors: Jules A. deGreef, David B. Beck, Corey B. Welch
  • Patent number: 8387755
    Abstract: A lubrication system is provided that includes a pump operatively connected to one or more supply lines for delivery of a lubricant, the system including a first pressure sensor associated with the supply line at a first position, and a second pressure sensor associated with the supply line at a second position downstream of the first position and pump, a controller configured to receive pressure signals and control operation of the pump based upon the pressure differential between the pressures at the first position and second position. The pressure differential may be employed to determine when a pressure at a third position downstream of the second position has been achieved. At least one of the pressure sensors may be positioned adjacent to the pump, the controller further being operable to deactivate the pump in the event that a maximum pump pressure has been met.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: John P. Marek
  • Patent number: 8373117
    Abstract: A gas delivery system for a cell-based mass spectrometer includes a mass flow controller having an input coupled to a gas source. A three-way valve includes an input coupled to an output of the mass flow controller, a first output coupled to a vacuum system, and a second output normally coupled to a reaction or collision cell. A cell is positioned inside a vacuum chamber of the mass spectrometer where the second output of the three-way valve is coupled to an inlet of the cell and the mass flow controller provides a gas to the cell that increases a pressure inside the cell relative to the pressure in the vacuum chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: DH Technologies Development PTE. Ltd.
    Inventors: Hamid R. Badiei, Kaveh Kahen
  • Patent number: 8371327
    Abstract: A liquid distributor for distributing a liquid in a pressurized system, including an inlet line and a first outlet line for respectively supplying a pressurized fluid to the liquid distributor and receiving the pressurized fluid from the liquid distributor. The liquid distributor having a first container defining a first chamber with an aperture leading into the first chamber and a second container defining a second chamber, with an inlet port connectable to the inlet line and a first outlet port connectable to the first outlet line. A check valve is provided between the first and second chambers, operable between an open configuration. The check valve closing when a pressure inside the second chamber is larger than a pressure inside the first chamber by a predetermined pressure differential.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Productions DR
    Inventor: Uldege Lebreux
  • Publication number: 20130025725
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes a valve body having a fluid access passage extending from a process fluid port to an access port, a block valve disposed in the fluid access passage and movable between open and closed conditions, an access blocking device disposed in the fluid access passage between the access port and the block valve, and a valve interlock arrangement. The access blocking device is movable from an access blocking condition in which access to the block valve through the access port is blocked, to an access permitting condition in which access to the block valve through the access port is permitted. The valve interlock arrangement is configured such that the block valve is prevented from being moved to the closed condition when the access blocking device is in the access permitting condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: Swagelok Company
    Inventor: James E. Gotch
  • Publication number: 20120312404
    Abstract: The manifold type pipe structure according to the present invention is characterized in that at least branch pipe is formed at a pipe passage having a flow hole through which fluid flows, and an input valve is formed at an end portion of the pipe passage, and a joint coupler forming an output valve at the other end portion is prepared, and an output valve of a joint coupler of the other places is joint-connected with a limited rotation angle at an input valve of at least one joint coupler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Yuk Nam Choi
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8322367
    Abstract: An expandable chemical delivery system sharing a common bulk fluid inlet and bulk fluid flow path to direct a bulk fluid through one or more selected chemical eductors. Each chemical eductor is slidably insertable into an eductor port on the manifold body such that rotation of the chemical eductor is not required for installation. After installation, the orientation of the chemical eductor can be rotatably adjusted so as to avoid interference with adjacent chemical eductors. Delivery of a bulk fluid to each chemical eductor is controlled via a corresponding valve assembly that selectively allows or blocks flow of the bulk fluid from the bulk fluid flow path to the corresponding chemical eductor. The manifold body can include a plurality of individual manifold bodies approximated with a coupling system to define the bulk fluid flow path. Alternatively, the manifold body can comprise a single fabricated body for high pressure operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Hydra-Flex Inc.
    Inventors: Jaime L. Harris, Gary A. Brown, David G. Kensinger, Karl J. Fritze
  • Publication number: 20120285565
    Abstract: Methods and valve arrangements for controlling the flow of pressurized air from a tractor to a trailer reservoir and to a trailer spring brake chamber. In one exemplary embodiment, pressurized air from a tractor is supplied from a tractor to the trailer reservoir and to the trailer spring brake in different filling modes based on a user input. In another exemplary embodiment, pressurized service air is used to charge or partially charge the trailer reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: BENDIX COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SYSTEMS LLC
    Inventors: Travis G. Ramler, Richard Conklin
  • Patent number: 8297297
    Abstract: A compressed air supply system and method of operating same for a commercial vehicle includes a compressed air inlet that can be coupled to a compressor, a filter unit that can be coupled to the compressed air inlet via a supply line, a discharge valve element that is coupled to a discharge outlet and the supply line, a first valve element and a second valve element. A control inlet of the discharge valve element is controllable by the first valve element and the second valve element is arranged in a regeneration air path for regenerating the filter unit. At least one pneumatically lockable overflow valve via which a consumer circuit coupled to the compressed air supply system is supplied with compressed air. The at least one pneumatically lockable overflow valve can be controlled by the second valve element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: KNORR-BREMSE Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventors: Karsten Schnittger, Oliver Kaupert
  • Publication number: 20120260993
    Abstract: A poppet valve assembly to control a pneumatic actuator may include a housing having a central bore. A first module may be disposed within the central bore, and the first module may have a first and second poppet valve. A second module may also be disposed within the central bore, and the second module may have a third and fourth poppet valve. A supply of pressurized fluid may be in fluid communication with a plurality of control valves such that pressurized fluid from the control valves opens and closes the poppet valves. The supply of pressurized fluid may also be in fluid communication with the first module and the second module such that the opening and closing of the poppet valves controls the position of the pneumatic actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: General Equipment and Manufacturing Company, Inc., d/b/a TopWorx, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce R. Penning
  • Publication number: 20120247595
    Abstract: A check valve nozzle having at least two discharge ports and providing improved mixing between the discharged fluid and the receiving fluid. The check valve nozzle may be of a “duckbill” type or a “pancake” type. The “duckbill” type may have discharge ports that vary in size, orientation with respect to the longitudinal centerline of the check valve nozzle, and/or construction materials. The “pancake” type may discharge the fluid from the check valve nozzle in a perpendicular, forward, or rearward direction. The check valve nozzle assembly contains a number of check valve nozzles that can vary in size, orientation with respect to the longitudinal centerline of the end cap of the assembly, and/or construction materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: RED VALVE COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: Spiros G. Raftis, Chris Raftis, Michael J. Duer
  • Publication number: 20120240580
    Abstract: In the embodiment, a steam valve device has, a steam regulating valve, and an intermediate flow path connecting the main steam stop valve and the steam regulating valve. The main steam stop valve and the steam regulating valve respectively have: casings where flow paths are formed between horizontal inlet ports and outlet ports opened downward and valve seats are arranged in the flow paths; valve elements movable up and down in the casings; and valve rods for driving the valve elements. The valve rods extend upward, and they are pulled off upward in a direction to outside of the casings when opening the flow paths. The intermediate flow path changes the flow direction of main steam flowing out of the outlet port of the main steam stop valve from downward direction to horizontal direction to guide the main steam toward the outlet ports of the steam regulating valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventors: Ryuhei TAKEMARU, Osamu SHINDO, Toshihiko ENDO
  • Patent number: 8267112
    Abstract: An automatic water distributor contains a body including a first outflow cavity, a second outflow cavity, at least one first and second inlets; the first inlet communicating with the first outflow cavity through a hole in the body; the body including a spaced fringe with a through aperture to space the first and the second inlets; a valve core inserting through the hole and the through aperture and including a first segment and a second segment; a water plug sliding on the valve core; a first resilient element fitted on the valve core, including two ends abutting against the first segment and the water plug respectively; a second resilient element fitted on the valve core and including two ends abutting against the second segment and the spaced fringe individually, wherein an elasticity coefficient of the second resilient element is less than that of the first resilient element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Globe Union Industrial Corp.
    Inventors: Zhibin Liu, Weidong Qiu
  • Patent number: 8205641
    Abstract: A hydraulic apparatus includes a housing portion having two main conduits and a central conduit. Valves are supported in the housing portion. At least one valve is interposed between each main conduit and the central conduit. Each of the valves has a closed position for preventing a free flow of fluid between the central conduit and its associated main conduit and have an open position for enabling the free flow of fluid between the central conduit and its associated main conduit. The hydraulic apparatus also includes a bypass valve assembly having a plunger portion that extends into the central conduit. The plunger portion is movable in an axial direction for moving the valves from the closed position to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Jason Scot Richardson, Robert Allan Manbert, Matthew Herman Simon
  • Patent number: 8167001
    Abstract: Dome-loaded pressure regulators are disclosed. An example pressure regulator includes a body having a pressure inlet and first and second pressure outlets and a first dome-loaded pressure regulating valve fluidly coupled to the pressure inlet, the first pressure outlet, and a first control pressure. The first dome-loaded pressure regulating valve includes a first piston having a transverse bore defining a fluid path through the first piston to fluidly couple the pressure inlet to the first pressure outlet and configured to engage a first valve seat and to respond to the first control pressure to control the flow of fluid between the pressure inlet and the first pressure outlet via the first valve seat. The example pressure regulator includes a second dome-loaded pressure regulating valve fluidly coupled to the pressure inlet, the second pressure outlet, and a second control pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Tescom Corporation
    Inventor: Todd William Larsen
  • Patent number: 8127783
    Abstract: A method of preventing a mass flow controller from participating in crosstalk in an array of mass flow controllers is described. The method includes sensing and providing a signal indicative of a fluid pressure inside of a mass flow controller with a pressure sensor contained within the mass flow controller, determining a response of a control valve to a rapid pressure perturbation at the inlet of the mass flow controller using the signal indicative of the fluid pressure to avoid overcompensation for the rapid pressure perturbation, and adjusting a control valve contained within the mass flow controller downstream of the pressure sensor, based on the determined response, so that the mass flow controller avoids overcompensating for the rapid pressure perturbation. The pressure sensor is positioned such that the pressure sensor is sensitive to rapid pressure perturbations at the inlet of the mass flow controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Mohammed Nuhu Balarabe, Philip Barros, Raul A. Martin, Mark A. Crockett, Eric S. Sklar
  • Patent number: 8104513
    Abstract: Disclosed is a gas flow path switching unit including a gas passage section with a target gas passage for allowing said target gas to pass therethrough. The target gas passage includes a main passage having a proximal end serving as said gas inlet and a number n of branch passages each provided with a respective gas outlet at a terminal end thereof. The branch passages are formed by repeating two or more times a branching process of branching said main passage into two sub passages at a branch point at a distal end of said main passage and further branching at least one of said sub passages into two sub-sub passages at a branch point defined by a distal end of said sub passage. The target gas passage also includes at least a number n of switching-gas supply passages connected to respective intermediate positions of said n branch passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventor: Masanao Furukawa