Vacuum-actuated Valves Patents (Class 137/907)
  • Patent number: 10151282
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an actuator for an intake manifold, wherein the actuator may include: a housing having a negative pressure space; an operating unit operated by the pressure of air introduced into and discharged from the negative pressure space, and rotating the variable valve; an exhaust flow path connected to an external negative pressure supply source; an intake flow path receiving external air which raises the pressure of the negative pressure space; a spool hole formed in the housing so as to communicate with the exhaust flow path and the intake flow path; an air entry and exit flow path formed in the housing so as to communicate with the negative pressure space and the spool hole; a valve body selectively opening/closing the exhaust flow path and the intake flow path; and a solenoid unit operating the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: HYUNDAI KEFICO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hun Cheol Kang, Sang Hoon Park, Byung Sam So
  • Patent number: 9944087
    Abstract: A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a pressure-regulating mechanism which is provided in a liquid supply path in which it is possible to supply liquid to a liquid ejecting unit, and includes a liquid accommodation part which can accommodate the liquid internally, and in which a volume of the liquid accommodation part is changed depending on displacing of a diaphragm section, in which the diaphragm section includes an annular corrugated portion formed in a sectional waveform shape which is deformed when the diaphragm section receives pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Masahiko Sato, Keiji Matsumoto, Hitotoshi Kimura
  • Patent number: 8973891
    Abstract: An air bypass valve device includes a case 3 and a valve assembly 5, a tenon 3l is provided to one of the case 3 and the valve assembly 5, and a tenon groove 8e is provided to the other, such that the case 3 and the valve assembly 5 are united by a tenon insertion structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Ryuichi Maeda, Tatsuya Matsumoto, Hisashi Yokoyama, Yoshinori Sunagawa, Keiichi Sakoda
  • Patent number: 8875730
    Abstract: A control device is provided with a switching valve mechanism and first and second actuators. The switching valve mechanism is provided with a valve element for switching which is located within a casing. The valve element can linearly move between an open position at which first and second pressure change chambers of the casing are communicated with each other and a closed position at which the communication is interrupted. The valve element is held at the open position and the closed position by a first holding mechanism (toggle spring). When a float ascends to a first water level, the first actuator moves the valve element from the closed position to the open position. When the degree of vacuum within a pressure detection chamber becomes a second degree of vacuum or less, the second actuator moves the valve element from the open position to the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Torishima Pump Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshitami Muraki
  • Patent number: 8684214
    Abstract: Provided is a degassing container for a refrigerator in which a portion of air within a storage space is forcedly discharged to allow the storage space to become a low pressure state. The degassing container includes a case, a door, a gasket, a pressing part, and a degassing adjustment part. The case has an opened side. The door selectively shields the opened side of the case. The gasket is interposed between the door and the case and elastically deformed and closely attached when the door is shielded. The pressing part is provided in the door and the case and selectively closely attaches the door by a rotation operation. The degassing adjustment part selectively enters and exits air within the case by operating the pressing part. Therefore, the refrigerator has improved storage performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Seok-Min Lim, Jong-Min Shin, Bong-Jun Choi, Su-Won Lee, Ill-Shin Kim, Jeong-Yon Kim
  • Patent number: 8678026
    Abstract: An automatic vacuum-relief apparatus for liquid suction systems includes a vessel defining a chamber filled with liquid in communication with a liquid flow line, a rotary shaft extending through the chamber to support a valve device adjacent to the liquid flow line and to move the valve device to open a relief-air flow channel to relieve increased suction caused by inlet blockage, and a piston on the rotary shaft responsive to suction increases within the liquid flow line and chamber to actuate shaft rotation. The valve device, chamber and relief-air flow channel are configured and arranged to cause a spurt of liquid from the chamber into the inlet while the valve device is moving from its isolating position toward its opening position upon inlet blockage, whereby the spurt of liquid pushes the blockage away from the inlet and the relief air reduces the suction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventors: Dieter J. Rief, Hans Schlitzer, Manuela Rief
  • Patent number: 8668183
    Abstract: A magnetic safety valve for installation through a tank wall incorporates a piston movable within a valve body. The valve is held normally-closed by two opposite-pole magnets, one in the inner end of the piston, and one in the valve body. A vacuum produced by a pump connected to the valve will act upon the outer end of the piston, producing a force tending to move the piston outward. When the vacuum-induced outward force on the piston exceeds the attractive force between the two magnets, it pulls the piston outward and away from the valve body magnet, unseating the inner end of the piston from the valve body, and allowing outward fluid flow through the valve. A second valve seat may be provided for engagement with an outer portion of the piston to prevent uncontrolled fluid flow out of the tank in the event of valve damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Inventors: Peter G. Haseloh, Kirste Ann Manuel
  • Patent number: 8636033
    Abstract: In a method for initialization of a microfluidic device including a first substrate including a microfluidic channel disposed therein, a valve seat disposed in a microfluidic channel and protruding from the first substrate, and a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate and including a space formed therein and corresponding to the valve seat, and a polymer film disposed between the first and second substrates, the method includes separating the polymer film from a surface of the valve seat by applying a positive pressure into the microfluidic channel of the first substrate and applying a negative pressure into the space of the second substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Won-jong Jung, Jae-young Kim
  • Patent number: 8496005
    Abstract: The auxiliary breathing flow channel apparatus for an oxygen mask for pilots and crew of an airplane includes a flow control device with closed and open positions to regulate flow through an auxiliary channel. A pressure sensor such as an aneroid capsule automatically closes the auxiliary channel upon a decrease in cabin pressure. A handle also allows a user to manually move the flow regulating means to a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: BE Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas K. McDonald, Mark A. Oswald, James C. Cannon, Bryan N. Rogers, Raymond P. Feith
  • Patent number: 8453668
    Abstract: A vacuum relief valve includes: a housing with a central cavity, the housing having a system branch, a vacuum branch, a pilot branch, and an exhaust branch, each of the branches in fluid communication with the central cavity and having a respective port; a piston assembly comprising a first disk located in the pilot branch, a second disk located adjacent the exhaust branch, and a connecting member to which the first and second disks are mounted; and an actuator attached to a pilot seal, the actuator configured to move the pilot seal between a closed position, in which the pilot seal is positioned in and seals the pilot port, and an open position, in which the pilot seal is spaced from and does not seal the pilot port. When the pilot seal is in the closed position, the second disk is positioned on and seals the exhaust port, and when the pilot seal is in the open position, the second disk is spaced from and does not seal the exhaust port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Parata System, LLC
    Inventors: Richard D. Michelli, Dennis Vaders
  • Patent number: 8418715
    Abstract: A control system for a purge valve that can be actuated by low pressure, which can be used for a low pressure or vacuum waste water system, encompassing a first valve and a second valve. The purge valve can be actuated as a function of its position, and the accumulated waste water can be drawn off via the sewage system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Roediger Vacuum GmbH
    Inventor: Artur Spitzer
  • Patent number: 8286665
    Abstract: Membrane valves and latching valve structures for microfluidic devices are provided. A demultiplexer can be used to address the latching valve structures. The membrane valves and latching valve structures may be used to form pneumatic logic circuits, including processors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Richard A. Mathies, William H. Grover, Erik C. Jensen
  • Patent number: 8057387
    Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for regulating vacuum applied to surgical suction devices allowing the use of a single vacuum regulator and associated canister to provide vacuum to two suction devices, such as a suction stabilizer and a suction retractor. Vacuum controllers may be placed in the vacuum lines provided to each of two or more suction devices, or may be placed only in the vacuum line of the suction device believed most likely to detach during the procedure. Each vacuum controller is provided with a primary vacuum line, coupling its associated suction device to the output of the vacuum regulator and a pilot passage, also coupling the suction device to the vacuum regulator. The controller closes a valve in the main vacuum line in response to loss of vacuum attachment, which valve remains closed until attachment is reestablished. Closure of the valve results in substantial or complete blockage of the main vacuum line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott E. Jahns, Glen Holmberg
  • Patent number: 8056156
    Abstract: A vacuum relief unit and method for venting air into a pool pumping system when a pressure level within the system drops below a first pressure level limit. The unit includes a closed air chamber, a device for venting chamber air from the air chamber into the pool pumping system when the pressure level in the pool pumping system drops below the first pressure level limit, a device for venting atmospheric air into the air chamber when the pressure level within the air chamber drops below a second pressure level limit that is lower than the first pressure level limit, and a device for delaying operation of the atmospheric air venting device when the pressure within the air chamber is no longer below the second pressure level limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventor: Michael J. Ciochetti, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8011380
    Abstract: Disclosed is a cylindrical, single-component two-stage regulator for controlling a pressure and a flow rate of a gas. The regulator includes a housing for holding the two stages having an ingress adapted for connection to a source of gas at a high input pressure and an egress adapted for supplying gas at a lower output pressure than the high input pressure; a first stage for reducing the pressure of the gas from the high input pressure to a fixed intermediate pressure; and a second stage for reducing the pressure of the gas from the fixed intermediate pressure to the lower output pressure and regulating the flow rate of the gas out of the egress. One application of the present invention is for use in scuba (Self-Contained Under-water Breathing Apparatus) applications, where it replaces the traditional two-component user-adjustable regulator. The regulator may be made out of stainless steel, and is small enough to fit into a user's mouthpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Vision Tech International LLP
    Inventors: Paul J. Califano, Michael J. Califano
  • Patent number: 7938141
    Abstract: Disclosed is a cylindrical, single-component two-stage regulator for controlling a pressure and a flow rate of a gas. The regulator includes a housing for holding the two stages having an ingress adapted for connection to a source of gas at a high input pressure and an egress adapted for supplying gas at a lower output pressure than the high input pressure; a first stage for reducing the pressure of the gas from the high input pressure to a fixed intermediate pressure; and a second stage for reducing the pressure of the gas from the fixed intermediate pressure to the lower output pressure and regulating the flow rate of the gas out of the egress. One application of the present invention is for use in SCUBA (Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus) applications, where it replaces the traditional two-component user-adjustable regulator. The regulator may be made out of stainless steel, and is small enough to fit into a user's mouthpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Vision Tech International LLP
    Inventors: Paul J. Califano, Michael J. Califano
  • Patent number: 7909055
    Abstract: A valve provided with a passage for conveying a medium, the passage having at least a first closable aperture, and with a closing device that is suitable for closing at least the first aperture. The valve is provided with a holder element that is movably included in a holder element house chamber of the holder element house. The closing device is capable of being supported by the holder element or forms an integrated part of the holder element, and the closing device is controllable by the medium. The holder element is controllable, only by the medium, for releasing at least the first aperture by means of the closing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Maasland N.V.
    Inventor: Gerard Mostert
  • Patent number: 7905247
    Abstract: The invention relates to a re-configured valve design to accommodate a high volume of product in the delivery system and the dispensation of product upon the application of a predetermined vacuum condition on the downstream side of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Serge Campeau
  • Patent number: 7845028
    Abstract: Vacuum sewer system comprising a source of sewage (101), sewer piping (102), a discharge valve (103) between the source of sewage and the sewer piping, means (104) for generating partial vacuum in the sewer piping, and a control means for controlling the operation of the discharge valve. The control means comprises a control mechanism (105) with a body part defining a series of chambers including a first end chamber and a second end chamber, wherein the first end chambers is provided with an activating means (106). The body part (12) is provided with a first port (8) for communication with a source of vacuum (102), a second port (9) for communication with the discharge valve (103) and a third port (10) for communication with an aeration means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventor: Gunnar Lindroos
  • Patent number: 7836886
    Abstract: The auxiliary breathing flow channel apparatus for an oxygen mask for pilots and crew of an airplane includes a flow control device with closed and open positions to regulate flow through an auxiliary channel. A pressure sensor such as an aneroid capsule automatically closes the auxiliary channel upon a decrease in cabin pressure. A handle also allows a user to manually move the flow regulating means to a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: B/E Intellectual Property
    Inventors: Thomas K. McDonald, Mark A. Oswald, James C. Cannon, Bryan N. Rogers, Raymond P. Feith
  • Patent number: 7814893
    Abstract: A system module is provided for recirculating exhaust gases from an internal combustion engine to an intake manifold of the internal combustion engine. The module includes a body (12) including a passageway (41) between an exhaust gas inlet (32) and an exhaust gas outlet (34). An orifice (36) constricts the flow of exhaust gases proximate the exhaust gas outlet. A differential pressure sensor (38) is constructed and arranged to sense differential pressure across the orifice. A manifold absolute pressure sensor (42) is constructed and arranged to sense vacuum pressure associated with the exhaust gas outlet. A first hose (40) is coupled with the body and provides the differential pressure sensor with vacuum pressure on a first side of the orifice. A second hose (44) is coupled with the body and provides the manifold pressure sensor with vacuum pressure. The first and second hoses are integral with the system module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Canada, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert D. Jefford, Natalie Gagner, Ted Daneliuk, Geoff Miller
  • Patent number: 7685793
    Abstract: A valve (20) is provided for sealing an evacuation port (16) in a port area (18) of a wall structure (12) of a container. The valve (20) comprises a casing (22) having a shell portion (30) which is deformable from an open condition, whereat the shell portion (30) forms a chamber (32) over the port area (18), and a closed condition, whereat the shell portion (30) contacts the port area (18). When the shell portion (30) is in its open condition, gas exits from the chamber (32) through gas-releasing holes (24) in the casing (22). When the shell portion (30) is deformed to its closed condition, a port-sealing adhesive (26) adheres to the port area (18) to thereby seal the evacuation port (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventors: Roland Newrones, Richard L. Sandt, Ronald F. Sieloff
  • Patent number: 7458390
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a breath controlled air inlet valve for controlling a flow of air supplied to a wearer of a facemask, the valve permitting the flow of air when a wearer breathes in and restricting the flow of air when the wearer breathes out. The valve includes an inlet, an outlet, one or more pivotable shutters, and a shutter articulating mechanism for articulating the one or more shutters between an open state and a closed state. The shutter articulation mechanism actuates in response to the respiration of the wearer. The valve also enables a positive pressure to be maintained within the facemask by permitting an amount of air to flow around the one or more shutters when the one or more shutters are in the closed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: TVI Corporation
    Inventor: Otto Gossweiler
  • Patent number: 7431047
    Abstract: The present invention regards an underpressure-activated valve mechanism for controlled dispensing of fluids, including liquid food articles, from a receptacle. When the user applies sufficient suction force (P2) across a pressure comparative diaphragm zone a valve opening force is applied to a valve area that has a force connection with the diaphragm zone. When the suction force ceases the valve area closes and remains closed, even in the event of overpressure (P3) in the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: SmartSeal AS
    Inventor: Kjetil Naesje
  • Patent number: 7380568
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling water flow is provided. The apparatus is a novel electronic water controller capable of operation using a battery-type power source, and providing for achievement of long battery life. The apparatus generally comprises an electronic control module, a vacuum pressure sensor, a trigger switch, a vacuum switching module and a means to electrically connect the electronic control module to a power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: John Tiwet
  • Patent number: 7377287
    Abstract: An intermittent pressure module for controlling the position of a valve between two positions comprising diaphragm means; a plurality of ports associated with said diaphragm means for exposing said diaphragm means to a selected pressure in said first position, and ambient pressure in said second position; swing means associated with said diaphragm means and said valve means for intermittently displacing said valve means when said diaphragm means is exposed to said selected pressure in said first position and ambient pressure in said second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: David Stinson
  • Patent number: 7284565
    Abstract: A fluid flow regulator useful with swimming pool suction cleaners includes a flow passage conduit for connection between a suction pump and the pool cleaner. A flow bypass conduit is connected to the flow passage conduit for injecting an ambient fluid into a bypass flow passage. A valve operates within the bypass flow passage with a spring carried entirely within the bypass passage for urging the valve toward a seated position. An adjustment knob acts on the spring for modifying a biasing force on the valve urging the valve toward the seated position in opposition to a pressure from a fluid flow within the flow passage urging the valve to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventor: Pavel Sebor
  • Patent number: 7255127
    Abstract: A vacuum regulator and intermittent flow device are disclosed. Vacuum regulation is achieved via spring forces acting on a movable piston-tube assembly disposed within a regulator body having a cylindrical hollow interior. Vacuum is supplied to an input port and regulated vacuum is provided at an output port. Vacuum at the output is cut off when fluid flow is sufficiently restricted and the piston-tube assembly is urged in contact against a fluid flow aperture within the regulator body thereby blocking fluid flow. Multiple modes of operation are provided in the regulator by way of a three position mode knob that enables regulated vacuum, unregulated vacuum and an “off” mode of operation. The disclosed intermittent vacuum flow device is attached to the output of the vacuum regulator and enables timed cyclical on and off operation of vacuum regulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Gilbert Davidson
  • Patent number: 7237567
    Abstract: A vacuum valve is disclosed. The vacuum valve comprises a body and a cylinder, mounted at the upper end of the body having a cavity including a piston, the center of the piston provided a piston rod extended into the cavity and the two sides of the body and the bottom section of the body being air holes, characterized in that the end of the piston rod is connected with a rocking arm and a gate plate having a lug by means of a connection rod, and one side of the gate plate, positioned at the interior of the upper section of the air hole is a pivotal lug by means of a connection rod so that the valve plate is opened or closed at an arch angle at the air hole, and the exterior of the bottom section of the body is a bottom plate so that the vacuum valve is formed into a two-passages valve and is connectable to a 180 degree conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Highlight Tech Corp.
    Inventor: Ming-Tien Wu
  • Patent number: 7171980
    Abstract: A valve assembly and a regulator for use therein are disclosed. The valve assembly includes a valve poppet having a first end having a first face and a second end having a second face. The first face has a surface area smaller than the surface area of the second face. The second end of the valve poppet is received in a sealed chamber and a passage provides fluid communication between the inlet of the regulator and the chamber for allowing gas accumulating in the chamber to act on the second face for urging the valve poppet in the closed position without the use of a spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Johnson Outdoors Inc.
    Inventors: Sergio A. Angelini, Bela Miklos
  • Patent number: 7143773
    Abstract: An intermittent pressure module for controlling the position of a valve between two positions comprising diaphragm means; a plurality of ports associated with said diaphragm means for exposing said diaphragm means to a selected pressure in said first position, and ambient pressure in said second position; swing means associated with said diaphragm means and said valve means for intermittently displacing said valve means when said diaphragm means is exposed to said selected pressure in said first position and ambient pressure in said second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Amvex Corporation
    Inventor: David Stinson
  • Patent number: 7140389
    Abstract: A vacuum producing device (1) possessing a principal suction nozzle unit (2) with a shut off valve (27) on the upstream side thereof and an additional suction nozzle unit (3) connected in parallel to the principal suction nozzle unit (2). While the supply of pressure medium for the principal suction nozzle unit (2) is controlled in a manner dependent on the negative pressure produced by controlling the shut off valve (27), the additional suction nozzle unit (3) remains (3) constantly in operation. This means that a complete build up of vacuum may be ensured in conjunction with a complete switching off of the principal suction nozzle unit (2) together with a resulting air economizing effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Festo AG & Co.
    Inventors: Jürgen Schnatterer, Günter Gebauer
  • Patent number: 7093612
    Abstract: A vacuum fitting having a check valve for use in bagging composite parts prior to and curing the during process, in which the body of the vacuum fitting is formed from a single piece of material, and the check valve has no loose fitting parts is disclosed. The vacuum fitting has a one-piece body portion having a base flange, a central neck portion, and a top quick-connect fitting adapted for releasable connection to a conventional vacuum source. The check valve is disposed within the central neck portion with a snap ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Greene, Wayne Sissom
  • Patent number: 7089953
    Abstract: The invention concerns a controlled pneumatic valve (1), for remote inflating and deflating of a capacity (2), comprising a membrane (17) maintained between a valve body (18), including orifices (24) and a cover (19); and defining with said cover a control chamber (20) and with the body an escape chamber (21), the latter being capable of being connected with the capacity (2) for deflation when the check valve (28) is thrust by levers (32) inverting the direction of movement of the membrane (17) sucked towards the cover (19). By the action of a pressure in the control chamber (20), the membrane (17), bearing a cup (33) with an annular conduit, moves towards the body (18), isolates the escape chamber (21), and opens the check valve (28) by direct thrust to perform inflation. The inventive device is particularly designed to control and adjust tire pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Inventor: Henri Beau
  • Patent number: 7047993
    Abstract: In a valve chest of the pilot switching valve, a positive pressure chamber and a negative pressure chamber are formed on opposite sides of a valve spindle making a reciprocating motion in the valve chest due to repulsion by a return spring, and by connecting a positive pressure source for feeding a positive pilot pressure to the positive pressure chamber, and a negative pressure source for feeding a negative pilot pressure to the negative pressure chamber, the pilot switching valve has the configuration such that displacement of the valve spindle takes place against the urging of the return spring and connection among respective ports in the pilot switching valve can be switched only when pilot pressures from the positive pressure source and the negative pressure source are fed into the positive pressure chamber, and the negative pressure chamber, respectively where a malfunction of a switching valve is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Manaka, Koji Matsuda
  • Patent number: 7017564
    Abstract: A positive crankcase ventilation valve includes a flow restrictor movable in an orifice to vary flow of fumes from a crankcase to an intake manifold in a vehicle. The valve also includes a wax motor for moving the flow restrictor in the orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Standard-Thomson Corporation
    Inventors: Wayne R. Duprez, Ken Zhao
  • Patent number: 7013909
    Abstract: The present invention provides a vacuum valve controller for opening and closing a vacuum valve mounted on an end of a pipe of a vacuum system that is part of a vacuum sewage system. A vacuum valve controller includes a pressure sensor for converting a water level of sewage in a sewage pit into a pressure, a vacuum valve opening and closing mechanism for opening and closing the vacuum valve according to a variation of the pressure detected by the pressure sensor, an open-state holding mechanism for holding the vacuum valve open until air is drawn in through the suction pipe after sewage is drawn in through a suction pipe, and a pressure transmitting mechanism for transmitting a pressure upstream of the vacuum valve in the suction pipe to the open-state holding mechanism to detect when air is drawn in through the suction pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Ebara Corporation
    Inventors: Osamu Shimizu, Isamu Kamata
  • Patent number: 6990997
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for distributing a fluid. A fluid distribution device includes a flow chamber comprising an inlet and an outlet, an equalization chamber; and a diaphragm separating the flow chamber and the equalization chamber, wherein a valve positioned in a flow path between the flow chamber inlet and the flow chamber outlet comprises a valve body coupled to the diaphragm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: USFilter Corporation
    Inventor: David Haruch
  • Patent number: 6945277
    Abstract: The invention concerns an underpressure valve with a multi-part housing and a disc-like closing body which has at least one opening, and with an opening-free section disposed in alignment with the flow channel of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: J. Schmalz GmbH
    Inventors: Kurt Schmalz, Gernot Schmierer, Thomas Eisele, Daniel Heine, Dieter Geissler, Leonhard Harter, Daniel Grözinger
  • Patent number: 6874484
    Abstract: A vacuum operated flow control valve is disposed in the vapor vent line from a fuel tank to a vapor storage canister connected also to the engine air inlet. The valve has a diaphragm operator of low permeability which is biased normally open to permit fuel vapor to flow from the tank to the canister during engine shutdown. Upon engine startup a vacuum is drawn in the canister and the flow control valve which closes preventing vacuum being drawn in the tank thereby preventing tank collapse. During engine shutdown, if an ambient temperature drop creates a vacuum in the tank, the flow control valve closes; however, an emergency umbrella relief valve opens permitting reverse flow of vapor from the canister to the tank preventing excessive vacuum in the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Robert P. Benjey
  • Patent number: 6863083
    Abstract: A valve is disclosed for dispensing a flowable material. The valve has a first chamber (40) at a first pressure wherein said first chamber (40) defines an outlet (28) in communication with said first chamber (40). A second chamber (42) is at a second pressure. The valve has a stop (18) indexed against a third pressure, operating to selectively place the first chamber (40) into communication with the second chamber (42). The stop (18) is operative to connect the second chamber (42) to said first chamber (40) when the first pressure is less than the third pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Hal C. Danby, Mark E. Williamson, Julian F. R. Swan
  • Patent number: 6837257
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a valve device at dispensers which are adapted for dispensing portions of liquid or semi-liquid products (2), preferably foodstuff, from containers, and which have vacuum pumps (5) for generating a negative pressure in passage systems (6) through which the products (2) are dispensed from the containers. The valve device is a magnetic valve device (9) which is designed as a permanent magnet device with a valve body (9d) which automatically shifts or changes position when the vacuum pump (5) has emptied a container (e.g. 3), such that said vacuum pump (5) immediately thereafter can empty another container (e.g. 4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Asept International AB
    Inventor: Stefan Cedergren
  • Patent number: 6837258
    Abstract: A sealed liquid accumulator for accumulating a liquid in a box which is sealed to prevent the escape of odors from the interior of the box. The accumulator has an outlet tube for evacuating liquid from the interior of the box by way of a vacuum. A source of replacement air is supplied to the box through a controlled valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: AcornVac, Inc.
    Inventor: Enrique P. Loreto
  • Patent number: 6772787
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vacuum regulator (1) for maintaining a substantially constant vacuum in a vacuum system (2). The vacuum regulator (1) includes a main valve arranged to control a supply of air to the vacuum system (2). The main valve includes a valve seat (3) defining a passage (4) arranged to lead air to the vacuum system (2) and a valve body (5) moveably arranged in a direction between a closed position and a maximally open position in order to regulate the size of a minimum flow area (18) between the valve seat (3) and the valve body (5). A force (19) caused by the vacuum acts on the valve body (5) in a direction towards the closed position. The valve seat (3) and the valve body (5) have such a design, that the value of the force (19), in a continuous way, increases with the degree of opening of the valve body (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Henrik Idensjö
  • Patent number: 6763846
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for distributing a fluid. A fluid distribution device includes a flow chamber comprising an inlet and an outlet, an equalization chamber; and a diaphragm separating the flow chamber and the equalization chamber, wherein a valve positioned in a flow path between the flow chamber inlet and the flow chamber outlet comprises a valve body coupled to the diaphragm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: United States Filter Corporation
    Inventor: David Haruch
  • Patent number: 6712095
    Abstract: A vacuum demand valve for delivering a flowable material is disclosed. The valve has a housing having a proximal end, a distal end, an intermediate segment therebetween defining a passageway wherein the flowable substance can flow from the proximal end to the distal end. The housing can be a tubing. A valve member is located along the intermediate segment. The valve member has a closed condition wherein the flow of the flowable material from the proximal end to the distal end is stopped and an open condition wherein the flow of the flowable material from the proximal end to the distal end is unstopped. The valve member is biased in the closed condition and is responsive to a partial vacuum provided by the user through the passageway for placing the valve member in the open condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Mark E. Williamson, Scott R. Ariagno, Alan W. Marttila, Arnold C. Bilstad, Paul M. DiPerna, Michael R. Prisco, David W. Pennington, Atif M. Yardimci, Sidney T. Smith, Mark C. Perry, Marc Bellotti
  • Patent number: 6695279
    Abstract: In a pressure-responsive actuator, the inside of a case is divided into first and second air chambers by a diaphragm, and a coil spring is accommodated in the second air chamber for exerting a spring force for urging the diaphragm in a direction to decrease the volume of the first air chamber. A rod is coaxially connected at one of opposite ends to a side of a retainer mounted to a central portion of the diaphragm on the side of the first air chamber and at the other end to a tip end of an arm fixed at its base end to a driven shaft rotatable about an axis perpendicular to a plane parallel to the rod. In this pressure-responsive actuator, the case is provided with a tilt-restricting portion for restricting the tilt of the rod to a range in which the contacting of the diaphragm with the inner surface of the case can be avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Keihin Corporation
    Inventors: Kenji Takahashi, Kenji Kudo
  • Patent number: 6684903
    Abstract: A vacuum demand valve for delivering a flowable material is disclosed. The valve has a housing having a proximal end, a distal end, an intermediate segment therebetween defining a passageway wherein the flowable substance can flow from the proximal end to the distal end. The housing can be a tubing. A valve member is located along the intermediate segment. The valve member has a closed condition wherein the flow of the flowable material from the proximal end to the distal end is stopped and an open condition wherein the flow of the flowable material from the proximal end to the distal end is unstopped. The valve member is biased in the closed condition and is responsive to a partial vacuum provided by the user through the passageway for placing the valve member in the open condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Mark E. Williamson, Scott R. Ariagno, Alan W. Marttila, Atif M. Yardimci, Sidney T. Smith
  • Patent number: 6681812
    Abstract: An attachment (3) for a vacuum gun (2), for introducing new coolant into a cooling system of a vehicle after spent coolant has been drained from the cooling system. The attachment (3) comprises: a body (4) having a first inlet (36) for air left in the cooling system of the vehicle after spent coolant has been drained from the cooling system; a second inlet (37) for the new coolant; an outlet (38); a passage (39) connecting the outlet (38) to each of the inlets (36, 37); and, a jumper valve (40) located within the passage (39). The jumper valve (40) is moveable between a first closed position and a second open position, and it is biased with a coil spring (41) to remain in the first position. Whilst a vacuum is applied to the attachment (3) by the vacuum gun (2), the jumper valve (40) is in the second position and air may be drawn from the cooling system to form a partial vacuum within the cooling system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: ABW Australia Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: David Mitchell
  • Patent number: 6679288
    Abstract: A vacuum demand valve for delivering a flowable material is disclosed. The valve has a housing having a proximal end, a distal end, an intermediate segment therebetween defining a passageway wherein the flowable substance can flow from the proximal end to the distal end. The housing can be a tubing. A valve member is located along the intermediate segment. The valve member has a closed condition wherein the flow of the flowable material from the proximal end to the distal end is stopped and an open condition wherein the flow of the flowable material from the proximal end to the distal end is unstopped. The valve member is biased in the closed condition and is responsive to a partial vacuum provided by the user through the passageway for placing the valve member in the open condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Baker International Inc.
    Inventors: Mark E. Williamson, Scott R. Ariagno, Alan W. Marttila, Arnold C. Bilstad, Paul M. DiPerna, David W. Pennington