Sectional Block Structure Patents (Class 137/884)
  • Patent number: 6871576
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for isolating hydraulic devices in a stacked hydraulic circuit of modular design employing an isolator valve module which enables partial and/or complete isolation of components in a hydraulic system to be isolated for inspection, testing, maintenance or replacement, by selective operation of the isolator valves in the isolator valve module. The isolator valve module may be a sub-plate module supporting other modules or a plurality of stacks of modules or may be a “sandwich” type module sandwiched between a sub-plate and another module or between two sandwich-type modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventor: Peter Vari
  • Patent number: 6868868
    Abstract: A manifold body allows a pressure-control knob to be disposed facing in a selected direction. The manifold body is divided into a manifold block and a regulator block. The manifold block is provided with a pressure gauge, an inport, and an outport. The regulator block is provided with a pressure-control knob and a regulator. The manifold block and the regulator block have respective fitting portions that are at an angle of 45 degrees to a mounting surface as seen in the side view. Each fitting portion is symmetric with respect to a center axis, so that the regulator block can be joined to the manifold block at either of two different angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventor: Masayuki Okitsu
  • Patent number: 6868867
    Abstract: A connecting layer for interconnecting fluid control devices in series and in parallel comprises an upper connecting layer 4 and a lower connecting layer 5. The upper connecting layer 4 is provided by parallel rows each comprising block couplings 41, 42, 43, 44 arranged longitudinally of the apparatus, each of the block couplings having a longitudinal channel 61 for interconnecting the adjacent fluid control devices in the row and a through channel 62 communicating with the fluid control device. The lower connecting layer 5 is provided by block coupling 56, 57, 58 each having a lateral channel 64 for interconnecting the through channels 62 of the block couplings 41, 42, 43, 44 of the upper connecting layer 4 which are arranged laterally and by block couplings 51 each adapted to cause the through channel 62 of the block coupling 41, 43, 44 of the upper connecting layer 4 to communicate with an inlet-side or outlet-side coupling 52, 53.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Michio Yamaji, Kenji Tsubota, Hidenaga Hoshiyama
  • Patent number: 6845614
    Abstract: A valve manifold controls hydraulic flow in a hydraulic system for an air compressor unit. The manifold includes a pressure relief valve, a cold oil bypass valve, a proportional flow valve, and an anti-cavitation valve. The pressure relief valve diverts flow away from a fan motor when the pressure of hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic system is above a predetermined level. The cold oil bypass valve diverts flow away from a hydraulic cooler when the temperature of hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic system is below a predetermined level. The proportional flow valve diverts flow away from the fan motor when the temperature of hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic system is below a predetermined level. The anti-cavitation valve prevents pressure build up within the hydraulic system when the air compressor unit is shut off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventor: David B. Stahlman
  • Patent number: 6840273
    Abstract: In a manifold valve, a magnet is mounted to a spool of a solenoid valve, magnetometric sensors and connecting pins to be brought into continuity with the respective magnetometric sensors are provided in a first recessed portion formed in a casing, a sensor connector in a second recessed portion and a main wiring substrate connected to the sensor connector in a substrate housing chamber are provided to a manifold base, and the connecting pins are connected to the sensor connector to thereby electrically connect the magnetometric sensors to the main wiring substrate when the solenoid valve is mounted onto the manifold base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Shinji Miyazoe, Makoto Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 6840265
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for making contact between a solenoid and an electronic control unit arranged neighboring a valve block, wherein the solenoid projects away from a side wall of the valve block by a magnetic coil and a magnetic core, contact elements being arranged in an end face region of the solenoid facing towards the valve block in such a way that the contact elements can be directly electrically connected to corresponding contact elements arranged on a wall of the electronic control unit or of the valve block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: CLAAS Industrietechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Thorsten Wojciechowski
  • Patent number: 6834669
    Abstract: An integrated pneumatic manifold for installations that require electrical and other components to be separated from a harmful or dangerous environment, in which pneumatic (and/or hydraulic) devices operate, the manifold comprising a block that has drilled into it a large number of passages that are directed in various directions and located at various levels, some passages crossing partially and some wholly with others and cavities machined in various positions. The block has mounting points for components on its surfaces and passive and active pneumatic components are integrated into the cavities and passages of the block. The block serves as a separation between the safe and harmful environments and as a substitution for many passive and active pneumatic components that would normally be individually connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Inventor: Otto Herman Seyfarth
  • Patent number: 6832622
    Abstract: A system for carrying out the automated processing of fluids. The system has combinable and interchangeable process modules (38, 39, 40), which each contain a control unit (6) and a fluid unit (7) that can be controlled by the control unit in order to execute a module-specific process function. The control units (6) are interconnected via a data bus (10) which is shared by process modules (38, 39, 40), and the fluid units (7) are interconnected via a fluid bus (44) having a number of channels (45). The configuration of at least one portion of the channels (45) of the fluid buses (44) can be varied in the areas of their respective connection to the fluid units (7) by using configuration devices, which can be provided in the form of adapters (41, 42, 43) located between the process modules (38, 39, 40) and the fluid bus (44).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Joerg Hassel, Arno Steckenborn
  • Patent number: 6830067
    Abstract: A plurality of solenoid valves are mounted onto an upper face of a manifold with solenoid operating portions of the solenoid valves projecting on a side of a first side face of the manifold. Onto the first side face, a board including an electric circuit for feeding the solenoid valves is detachably mounted in a vertical orientation under the solenoid operating portions. On the board, feeding connectors and indicating lights are respectively provided in positions corresponding to the respective solenoid valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventor: Bunya Hayashi
  • Publication number: 20040244856
    Abstract: A concatenation module adapted to be concatenated with further concatenation modules as a battery, comprising a housing and lateral concatenation contacts on the housing for making electrical contact with at least one further concatenation module. The housing is in the form of a three-dimensional circuit substrate and it contains at least one electronic component, arranged on the circuit substrate, for a control function and/or a monitoring function and/or a communication function. When the concatenation modules are assembled as a battery the concatenation contact preferably make flatwise contact with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Applicant: Festo AG & Co.
    Inventors: Stephan Schauz, Walter Suchy, Rolf Rohwer
  • Patent number: 6827106
    Abstract: A compact orifice and an orifice clogging preventing mechanism respectively integrated with a hydraulic control unit in the orifice of a fluid passage of the hydraulic control unit formed by inserting plate between two parts and the orifice clogging preventing mechanism. One groove type fluid passage formed in the first part is in communicate with a groove type fluid passage formed in the second part via a group of small holes formed in a plate. The groove type fluid passage in the second part is in communicate with a separate groove type fluid passage in the first part from the groove type fluid passage in the first part via an orifice formed on the plate and the diameter of each small hole in the group of small holes is set to a smaller value than that of the orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Hori, Yoshihiro Yoshida
  • Patent number: 6817381
    Abstract: A process gas line (255) for carrying WF6 gas for nucleation, a process gas line (257) for carrying WF6 gas for film deposition after nucleation are joined at a single joint (280) to a carrier gas line (256). A gas line (271) is connected to the joint (280) to carry a mixed gas of the carrier gas and WF6 gas to a processing chamber defined by a processing vessel. Sections of the carrier gas line (256) and the gas line (271) extending on the opposite sides of the joint (280) extend along a straight line, and the process gas lines (255, 257) are perpendicular to the gas line (271).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Hayashi Otsuki, Yutaka Miura
  • Patent number: 6807981
    Abstract: A manifold 10A is divided into a manifold main body 12 and a sub-plate 13, a plurality of branch holes 14a, 15a and 16a extending from a mounting face vertically and straightly to communicate with fluid flow passages 14, 15 and 16 are provided in the manifold main body 12, a plurality of relay holes 24, 25 and 26 which causes the respective branch holes 14a, 15a and 16a to communicate with respective ports 21, 22 and 23 of an electromagnetic valve 11 are provided in the sub-plate 13, and the relay hole and the branch hole whose positions are different to each other are caused to communicate with each other via a recessed portion 29 formed on an lower face of the sub-plate 13.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Shinji Miyazoe, Masaru Narita, Makoto Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 6805146
    Abstract: The electronic-hydraulic transmission control module has a hydraulic plate, an electronic control unit, and a sensor. The sensor is caulked into a wall of an opening in the hydraulic plate forming a plastic deformation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Roland Albert, Christian Fritzsche, Andreas Rekofsky, Ulf Scheuerer
  • Publication number: 20040194834
    Abstract: A manifold with interconnecting, non-threaded modular sections. The connected sections define a fluidic passageway and at least one valved outlet. The valved outlet is reversible to enable the valve to be readily accessible when the modular section is in any orientation. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Randall J. Rehder, Gary Hutko, L. James Knowles
  • Publication number: 20040187943
    Abstract: The invention provides a fluid delivery system, including a mounting structure, a plurality of rows of locator alignment components secured to the mounting structure, a plurality of rows of fluid connecting pieces, each having inlet and outlet ports and a fluid communication passage interconnecting the ports, the fluid connecting pieces being arranged in pairs, each pair including two of the fluid connecting pieces located next to one another in a respective row of fluid connecting components, the fluid connecting pieces of each pair being releasably held by and aligned relative to one another by a respective one of the locator alignment components, and a plurality of manifold pieces extending transverse to the rows of fluid connecting pieces, at least one manifold piece having a manifold passage with a center line crossing over a center line interconnecting the farthest ports of one of the pairs and being removable without removing the locator alignment component by which the respective pair is held from the
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Kevin S. Bennett
  • Publication number: 20040187942
    Abstract: An electro-hydraulic manifold assembly with a plurality of solenoid operated valves disposed on a manifold block and each operable to control pressure from the inlet to a separate outlet. Sensing ports are provided in each outlet with a pressure sensor sealed over the sensing port for providing a signal indicative of the sensed pressure. The pressure sensors are mounted on a lead frame and connected to conductive strips in the lead frame. The lead frame has slots therein which permit the frame to be simultaneously electrically connected by bayonet connection to the terminals on each solenoid valve as the transducers are sealed over the sensing ports and the lead frame attached to the manifold block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Applicant: EATON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Greg E. Ford, Timothy J. Green, David E. Herbert, Harold L. Bowman, Peter M. Jacobsen
  • Publication number: 20040173270
    Abstract: A novel fluid delivery system includes a mounting panel, where the mounting panel includes channels that define the flow of fluid between any flow-control components mounted on the mounting panel. The mounting panel comprises a top plate and a bottom plate, and the channels are carved out of the underside of the top plate and are enclosed by the bottom plate. In a complex fluid delivery system having many fluid channels, the mounting panel may include one or more interior panels with additional channels carved out of the interior plates to accommodate all routing paths. The channels run in two or more directions to connect two or more gas/channel sticks together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Inventors: James M. Harris, Selser J. Michael
  • Patent number: 6786466
    Abstract: A valve coil support, in particular for automotive vehicle brake pressure control systems, including at least one valve coil in a frame-shaped wall portion for mounting onto a hydraulic or pneumatic pressure control device which has at least one valve in a fluid channel that is electromagnetically operable by means of the valve coil for pressure fluid control, wherein the frame-shaped wall portion is closed on the frontal end remote from the pressure control device, and wherein at least one component is arranged within the frame-shaped wall portion for connecting the valve coil to an electronic controller. The valve coil is directed to a bottom which is connected to the frame-shaped wall portion and protects the valve coil after assembly of the valve coil support on the pressure control device against the effects of moisture, and wherein the valve coil for installation in the valve coil support is inserted into the frame-shaped wall portion exclusively in the direction of the bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co., OHG
    Inventors: Stephan Risch, Wolfgang Käfer, Andrea Heise, Jürgen Peter Gilb
  • Publication number: 20040168732
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a bridge fitting for use in a fluid manifold system for being in fluid communication with two or more surface mounted fluid components having an inlet port and an adjacent outlet port. The invention also provides for a housing with a first port connected to a second port, with an internal fluid passageway joining the first and second ports and at least one projection extending from the housing. The bridge fittings may be mounted in a channel block having a groove and an aligned hole for receiving the projection. Another embodiment of the invention provides for a modular surface mount check valve with a valve body having a mounting flange connected thereto, the flange being substantially planar and having an inlet passage located about the center of the flange and an outlet passage located adjacent the inlet passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Robert V. Perusek, David J. Hasak, Gregory S. Kalata, Douglas A. Nordstrom, Timothy Maruna
  • Patent number: 6776192
    Abstract: A manifold mounting system for electrically operated pneumatic control valves includes a push-on snap lock latching arrangement that is responsive to simple straight line connecting movement of the valve to the manifold. The system completely eliminates the need for end plates, screws, O-rings, gaskets and the like, and the simultaneous accommodation of a plug-in electrical connection also eliminates wiring connections. Manual push button release provides equally simple disconnection of the valve from the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Mead Fluid Dynamics, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Wigmore
  • Patent number: 6776193
    Abstract: An modular manifold system is provided for interconnecting fluid components of a fluid system in a reduced area. The system is comprised of a one or more bridge fittings having an internal fluid passageway which has an inlet end in fluid communication with an outlet port of a first fluid component, and an outlet end in fluid communication with an inlet port of a second fluid component. The bridge fittings may be mounted within a channel of a backing plate for structural support. An optional locator plate may be utilized which is mounted over the ends of the bridge fittings in order to align the inlet and outlet ports of the fluid components with the inlet and outlet ends of the bridge fittings. The bridge fittings may also be mounted to the locator plate in multiple directions forming multiple flow paths. Additionally, the bridge fittings may be stacked to form multiple layers where bridge fittings of one layer may be in fluid communication with bridge fittings of another layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Swagelok Company
    Inventor: Paul E. Eidsmore
  • Publication number: 20040154674
    Abstract: An assembly of a plurality of hydraulic control valves is housed in a single-piece body. For each control valve, a spool bore and an aperture for a pressure compensation valve are provided in the monolithic body. Each spool bore is connected to several return passages and a supply passage that extend through the monolithic body. A pair of workports also is connected to each spool bore. A relief valve return passage also extends through the monolithic body and where needed, apertures for pressure relief valves extend from a surface of the monolithic body intersecting the relief valve return passage and a given workport. A load sense passage and a second supply passage also are formed in the monolithic body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventor: Gary J. Pieper
  • Publication number: 20040154675
    Abstract: A fluid pressure regulator assembly includes a body having a first passageway extending from a first port to a second port, and a second passageway extending from a third port to a fourth port. A pressure regulator is coupled between the second and third ports for controlling the pressure of fluid flowing from the second port to the third port. The regulator assembly further includes a bypass valve and the body includes a housing for the bypass valve. A third passageway extends from the first passageway to the housing, and a fourth passageway extends from the housing to the second passageway. The bypass valve controls flow from the first passageway through the third passageway and the fourth passageway to the second passageway in response to a bypass control signal coupled to the bypass valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Inventors: Michael J. Diana, David L. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 6769463
    Abstract: The present application relates to fluid flow systems and more particularly to fluid flow systems for use in the semiconductor industry. In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a fluid stick adapted to be mounted to a mounting surface. The fluid stick includes a first flow component positioned in the fluid stick and a second flow component positioned in the fluid stick between the first flow component and the mounting surface and in fluid connection with the first flow component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: Celerity Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Kim Ngoc Vu
  • Patent number: 6766830
    Abstract: An isolating insert for, in a block of modules for distributing a pneumatic fluid, forming two adjacent block sections, comprising: a body with an external surface comprising two parallel faces for assembly by juxtaposition against each adjacent module with, between these faces, internal channels providing the continuity of the common channels of the block and with a bypass for at least one of these internal channels opening out at the external surface of the element outside the assembly faces, a flat plate removably located on one of the above mentioned assembly faces, forming the closure and/or connection means of at least the internal channels of the body with the common channels of the block, the plate inseparably carrying a part identifying its function projecting from the external surface of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Parker Hannifin Rak SA
    Inventors: Serge Rondreux, Grégory Lucas, Patrick Magnin
  • Patent number: 6766649
    Abstract: An air hoist, also referred to as a winding machine, includes an air motor with a manifold thereon, a valve plate and an operating valve. The air motor includes a reversably rotatable drum about which an elongated load-carrying element, such as a chain or cable, is wound to permit lifting or lowering of a load. The drum is driven in either a clockwise or counterclockwise manner, thereby causing lowering or lifting, by fluid pressure supplied by a pneumatic or air supply. The lowering or lifting is controlled by fluid direction through the manifold, valve plate and operating valve which is controlled by the position of the operating valve. The manifold, valve plate and single operating valve being of a unique design and configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Lisbon Hoist, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Burlingame
  • Patent number: 6763848
    Abstract: The invention relates to a block of pneumatic modules consisting of a plurality of adjacent distribution modules, juxtaposed and kept tightened against each other along parallel faces and between two end modules by assembly means passing through all the distribution modules and at least one of the end modules. The assembly means comprise, for each distribution module, a single through rod with a first externally threaded end and a second internally threaded end, the second end of each rod being shaped as a head whose external surface is not of revolution about the axis of the rod and which, in service, at least partially projects from a face of the module through which the rod passes, the face of the adjacent module turned towards the head having a recess corresponding in shape to the above mentioned head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Parker Hannifin Rak SA
    Inventors: Serge Rondreux, Jean-Luc Burban, Daniel Bouteille
  • Publication number: 20040134549
    Abstract: A hydraulic motor vehicle comprises a plastic hydraulic distributor plate (1) with channels (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) for the distribution of hydraulic fluid extending therethrough. Electric conductors (9) of the gearbox control device are embedded in the hydraulic distributor plate (1) and/or electric conductors are metallized onto the surface of the hydraulic distributor plate (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Roland Albert
  • Publication number: 20040129324
    Abstract: A gas panel comprising a first gas stick, a second gas stick, and a first manifold. The first gas stick has a first flow path that includes a first plurality of ports formed in a common plane, and the second gas stick has a second flow path that includes a second plurality of ports formed in the common plane. The first manifold has first and second ports formed in the common plane, the first port being fluidly connected to one port of the first plurality of ports of the first gas stick, and the second port being fluidly connected to one port of the second plurality of ports of the second gas stick. A thermally and vibrationally insulating mounting assembly may be used to mount the first and second gas sticks to a mounting plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Applicant: Celerity Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Kim Ngoc Vu
  • Publication number: 20040118466
    Abstract: An electro-hydraulic manifold assembly including integral pressure transducers for providing real time indication of the control pressure signal output of each electrically operated valve on the manifold. The transducer dies are adhesively attached to circuit boards and the leads ultrasonically attached to pads on the ends of conductive strips on the circuit boards. Upstanding electrical connectors are attached to the circuit boards and connected to the dies which are potted over with silicone potting compound and the circuit board attached to the manifold. An electrical lead frame commonly engages the solenoid terminals and the pressure transducer terminals in bayonet style connection through slots in the lead frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: EATON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Greg E. Ford, Timothy J. Green, David E. Herbert, Harold L. Bowman
  • Publication number: 20040112447
    Abstract: A modular manifold system is provided for interconnecting fluid components of a fluid system in a reduced area. The system is comprised of a one or more bridge fittings having an internal fluid passageway which has an inlet end in fluid communication with an outlet port of a first fluid component, and an outlet end in fluid communication with an inlet port of a second fluid component. The bridge fittings may additionally comprise two or more ports, which one of said ports may be in fluid communication with a manifold on another substrate level. The bridge fittings may be mounted within a channel of a backing plate for structural support or in channel blocks of varying sizes. The bridge fittings may be stacked to form multiple layers where bridge fittings of one layer may be in fluid communication with bridge fittings of another layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Applicant: SWAGELOK COMPANY
    Inventor: Paul G. Eidsmore
  • Publication number: 20040112446
    Abstract: A modular manifold system is provided for interconnecting fluid components of a fluid system in a reduced area. The system is comprised of a one or more bridge fittings having an internal fluid passageway which has an inlet end in fluid communication with an outlet port of a first fluid component, and an outlet end in fluid communication with an inlet port of a second fluid component. The bridge fittings may additionally comprise two or more ports, which one of said ports may be in fluid communication with a manifold on another substrate level. The bridge fittings may be mounted within a channel of a backing plate for structural support or in channel blocks of varying sizes. The bridge fittings may also be mounted to the locator plate in multiple directions forming multiple flow paths. The bridge fittings may be stacked to form multiple layers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Applicant: SWAGELOK COMPANY
    Inventors: Paul G. Eidsmore, Michael J. Mohlenkamp, Benjamin J. Olechnowicz, Christine M. Schilt-Deines, Douglas Nordstrom, James McCoy
  • Patent number: 6745793
    Abstract: A valve arrangement, which possesses a plurality of valve units mounted on each other in sequence in an array direction (3) on each other. For this purpose each valve unit (2) possesses, on opposite sides, a first mounting face (5) and a second mounting face (6). In the interior of each valve unit (2) there extends, in a direction athwart the array direction (3), at least one internal flow duct (32a and 32b). On its longitudinal side, facing the first mounting face (5), same is delimited by a lateral duct wall (36a and 36b) of the respective valve unit (2). On the opposite longitudinal side it is at least partially open, the open length section (37a and 37b) being covered by the mounted neighboring valve unit. Accordingly compact width dimensions are possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: Festo AG & Co.
    Inventor: Manfred Rüdle
  • Publication number: 20040089357
    Abstract: An integrated electrofluidic system including an electronic control system amounted on a support platform, a microfluidic system embedded in the platform and having an input and an output and at least one electrofluidic component, and at least one electrical conductor carried by the platform for electrically interconnecting the electronic control system and the at least one electrofluidic component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventors: Christopher Dube, Jason O. Fiering, Mark J. Mescher
  • Patent number: 6729854
    Abstract: A manifold for a hydraulic system including a pump and accessories such as valves and filters as well as gauges in which the manifold is made part of the pump in fluid communication with the output to receive hydraulic fluid and deliver it to selected accessories and to return the fluid to the reservoir of the hydraulic system all with a minimum of hoses and couplings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: CRS Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter C. Fletcher, Robin L. Newlon, Craig R. Solgan
  • Patent number: 6729353
    Abstract: A fluid delivery apparatus for transporting a fluid to one or more fluid handling components. The fluid delivery apparatus includes one or more modular subassemblies having an upper module, a lower module, and a base block. The upper module includes a passageway for coupling with a fluid handling component such that the upper passageway is in fluid communication with the fluid handling component. The lower module includes a lower passageway for coupling with the upper module such that the passageways are in fluid communication. The lower module includes a flow channel having a lower passageway. The base block includes a receptacle and a channel. The upper module is received within the receptacle and the lower module extends through the channel. The modular subassembly can include a spacer having a plurality of alignment apertures for aligning fluid coupling ports of the upper and lower modules. A method of using the fluid delivery apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Asml Us, Inc.
    Inventor: Nhan Nguyen
  • Patent number: 6729364
    Abstract: A manifold assembly for use in conjunction with a servicing apparatus for exchanging fluid between a serviceable automobile component and new and used fluid tanks and including a rigid manifold body with a fluid circuit defining a plurality of pathways connecting a plurality of ports whereby fluid is directed through the fluid circuit and ports by selectively operating first and second valves and circulated using a common pump to exchange fluid, recirculate fluid, and drain both the used and new fluid tanks as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Few, Michael Schwindaman
  • Patent number: 6715510
    Abstract: An electro-hydraulic controller having a plurality of solenoid operated valves mounted in inlet and outlet ported valving cavities on a non-metallic manifold block. The manifold block has inlet and outlet ports sealed by a gasket for communication with corresponding ports in a metallic base to which the manifold block is attached. The base is sufficiently rigid to resist prohibitive deflection when exposed to the forces of fluid pressure when secured over the open hydraulic channels of an automatic transmission shift circuit deck. The non-metallic manifold may be fabricated to “Net Shape” without costly secondary operations to achieve critical dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: David E. Herbert
  • Patent number: 6715400
    Abstract: A fluid power operative instrumentality having an electro-fluidic control unit, which is provided with a plurality of electrically activated control valves having 2/2 valve functions. On the control unit different operative units may be selectively mounted, the control valves being able to be operated by means of electronic control circuitry in a manner matching the mounted operative unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Festo AG & Co.
    Inventors: Andreas Muth, Jari Haajo
  • Publication number: 20040045614
    Abstract: A hydraulic interface plate is a generally flat plate that defines an upper surface and a lower surface. An upper fluid routing channel is formed in the upper surface of the interface plate. Moreover, a lower fluid routing channel is formed in the lower surface of the interface plate. A fluid interface port connects the upper fluid routing channel to the lower fluid routing channel. The upper fluid routing channel is configured to communicate with a solenoid fluid port established by a solenoid assembly module. Also, the lower fluid routing channel is configured to communicate with a transmission fluid channel established by a vehicle transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Viswanathan Subramanian, Luis F. Barron
  • Patent number: 6701962
    Abstract: A stackable valve manifold arrangement including a first valve manifold adapted to operatively receive a plurality of valves. The first valve manifold having an upper surface. A second valve manifold is provided which is adapted to operatively receive a plurality of valves. The second valve manifold has a lower surface that is in opposed relationship to the upper surface of the first valve manifold, and the second valve manifold is in fluid communication with the first manifold. The first and second manifolds may each be joined to a circuit board forming a module. The modules are vertically stackable and operatively connected to each other to form a system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Festo Corporation
    Inventors: Frank Latino, Grzegorz Bogdanowicz, Karl-Heinz Forster
  • Publication number: 20040035480
    Abstract: A system and method for integrating gas components that combines together, either in an in-line or modular fashion, at least two gas components used in a gas stick for flowing a gas from a first point to an end point. In one embodiment, the present invention can be used to combine a pressure transducer, a filter, and a display into a single unit that will reduce the gas stick size along the gas flow axis of the gas stick. The gas components can be integrated using VCR connections for an in-line use of the present invention. In the modular form, the present invention can use a number of different connections to connect the gas components vertically on a modular base block (i.e., stacked approximately perpendicular to the modular base block). Thus, the gas components will stack vertically with respect to the traditional horizontal gas flow path axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Applicant: Mykrolis
    Inventor: Christ A. Tsourides
  • Patent number: 6695008
    Abstract: The liquid distributor (1) for columns (6) has a main passage (2), a plurality of secondary passages (3) and an outflow system (5) of the main passage. The liquid (4) to be distributed can be fed into the secondary passages in accordance with a pre-set ratio by this outflow system. The outflow system (5) comprises apertures (20) in the side walls of the main passage and—associated with the secondary passages—guide elements (50) for the liquid (41) exiting through the apertures. The guide elements are designed with respect to a liquid guidance such that the liquid (42) can be led into the associated secondary passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Sulzer Chemtech AG
    Inventors: Emil Fehr, Adrian Faust, Markus Fischer
  • Patent number: 6688325
    Abstract: A modular fluid control system which comprises a plurality of fluid distribution modules each formed of a parallelepiped-shaped module block of similar shape and size and having fluid channels therein is provided. Each module block has at least two porting faces on opposite sides, selected ones of the channels opening on an associated one of the porting faces to form port openings. The module blocks are arranged in an aligned abutting relationship so that selected port openings communicate with each other at abutting porting faces of adjacent module blocks. The modular fluid control system further comprises a frame which surrounds the module blocks and has connector through ports therein aligned with selected ones of the port openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Burkert Werke GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Christoph Hettinger
  • Patent number: 6682001
    Abstract: A coating material color changer includes multiple modules. Each module includes a body constructed from an electrically non-conductive material, such as an insulative resin or polymer, and a plate coupled to the body and constructed from, for example, stainless steel. Each plate includes at least one of a receptacle for receiving an electrically non-insulative contact and an electrically non-insulative contact oriented to be received in such a receptacle when multiple modules are coupled together in a coating material color changer to couple the plates of the modules of the coating material color changer together electrically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Diana
  • Patent number: 6675830
    Abstract: A pressure control apparatus which controls a pressure of air supplied from a supply hole of a base having a plurality of holes to a supply port of a valve having a plurality of ports is interposed between the base and the valve. This pressure control apparatus comprises a pressure control section which controls a pressure of the air such that the pressure becomes equal to a set pressure, a booster section which outputs a large amount of air to the valve by controlling an output pressure by air from this pressure control section, and a signal control section which outputs a monitor signal indicative of completion of pressure setting when the pressure of air output from the booster section becomes equal to the set pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshitada Doi, Makoto Nomura
  • Publication number: 20040003853
    Abstract: A fluid manifold usable with a welder and air compressor combination. The manifold is constructed of a single unitary manifold block and which is divided into two separate fluid communication systems that are isolated from each other by the manifold block itself. Each of the separate fluid communications systems provides various channels and external ports to access those fluid channels to enable the welder and air compressor combination to be more easily assembled and constructed by locating the manifold in a convenient location within the welder and air compressor combination and which has the necessary fluid channels and conduits already formed within the manifold so that the manufacturer or assembler can simply affix the proper fluid lines and system components to the manifold in carrying out the construction of the welder and air compressor combination and be assured that the proper fluid communication will be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Publication date: January 8, 2004
    Inventors: Herbert A. Bankstahl, Joseph Gitter
  • Patent number: 6662825
    Abstract: A control device for pressurized fluids includes a valve mechanism actuated by a first device incorporating electromagnets in a first housing, and a second device incorporating a circuit board for controlling the valve mechanism in a second housing. Pins on the first device and sockets on the second device automatically form an electrical plug-type connection when the housings are joined. Each socket is received in a first portion of a through-hole provided in a mount supported on the circuit board such that it extends into a corresponding through-hole in the circuit board. A second portion of each through-hole in each mount has a funnel-shaped guide opening toward the pins. A pressure sensor supported by the circuit board forms a plug-type engagement with a port extending from the valve mechanism when the housings are joined. Contacts extend from the sensor into holes in the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Wabco GmbH & Co. OHG
    Inventors: Dieter Frank, Oliver Gründker, Peter Homann, Andreas Kranz, Rainer Risse, Gerdt Schreiber
  • Publication number: 20030226606
    Abstract: A plurality of pipe joints is mounted to a lower face of a base portion of a manifold base. A plurality of solenoid valves are respectively mounted to two valve mounting faces of a valve mounting portion provided onto the base portion. Respective ports of the solenoid valves and the respective pipe joints communicate with each other through flow paths in the manifold base. A substrate assembly for feeding the respective solenoid valves is supported on a substrate mounting portion provided onto the valve mounting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Applicant: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Bunya Hayashi, Makoto Ishikawa, Masaru Narita