With Screen Patents (Class 138/41)
  • Patent number: 11841193
    Abstract: A heat exchanger is provided including a first header and a second header and a plurality of heat exchange tube arranged in spaced parallel relationship and fluidly coupling the first and second header. A flow restricting element defining a first volume and a second volume is positioned within one of the first and second header. The heat exchanger has a multi-pass configuration such that a first portion of the plurality of heat exchange tubes are coupled to the first volume and form a first fluid pass of the heat exchanger and a second portion of the plurality of heat exchange tubes are coupled to the second volume and form a second fluid pass of the heat exchanger. During operation, the heat transfer fluid conveyed through the first volume has a first saturation temperature and the heat transfer fluid conveyed through the second volume has a different second saturation temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Assignee: CARRIER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Arindom Joardar, Kazuo Saito, Cheng Chen, Michael F. Taras
  • Patent number: 11661328
    Abstract: Examples disclosed herein relate to a dispensing device including a syrup unit which transmits via one or more orifices one or more syrups and water to a dispensing block, a syrup source coupled to the syrup unit which provides the one or more syrups to the syrup unit, a water source which provides water to the syrup unit, and a cf valve coupled to a first orifice upstream of a solenoid valve where the cf valve provides a first range of pressures to the solenoid valve and where the first orifice is coupled to the dispensing block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: GATES CFV Solutions, INC.
    Inventors: John Newton, Peter Brooke, Dustin Hartsfield, Michael Cheney, Gillian Callaghan
  • Patent number: 11585444
    Abstract: Apparatuses for controlling gas flow are important components for delivering process gases for semiconductor fabrication. These apparatuses for controlling gas flow frequently rely on effectively sealed flow restrictors which can eliminate leakage of process gas around the flow restrictors. In one embodiment, a seal for a flow restrictor is disclosed, the seal comprising a plastic cylinder which is shrink fit onto a sealing portion of the flow restrictor. In another embodiment, a seal for a flow restrictor is disclosed, the seal having a first sealing ring with a flow aperture, a flow restrictor installed into the flow aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Inventors: Matthew Eric Kovacic, Zachariah Ezekiel McIntyre, Sean Joseph Penley, Christopher Bryant Davis
  • Patent number: 11315537
    Abstract: A silencer includes a main body provided with a flow path having inlet and outlet ports of steam, configured such that the outlet port is submerged in drain, and including a submerged portion configured such that the steam contacts, in the flow path, the present drain having flowed in through the outlet port, and a porous member covering the outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignee: TLV CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yuichi Sugie
  • Patent number: 11125257
    Abstract: Embodiments of a Flow Conditioning System (“FCS”) of this disclosure may be used for homogenizing a fluid containing a gas phase and a liquid phase. In some embodiments the FCS may be applied to a fluid containing hydrocarbons. The FCS may be located where appropriate, including but not limited to subsea. The FCS may be used for homogenizing slug flow. In embodiments, the FCS may be composed of an outer shroud pipe section, into which a concentric perforated smaller pipe is inserted at the top. The inlet slug flow regime is changed at the shroud section whereby the slugs are broken, transitioning to well-mixed flow regimes, such as bubbly flow or continuous churn flow. The bubbly or continuous churn flow that occur in the shroud section are forced to pass through the perforations of the perforated smaller diameter pipe, which promote a more thorough mixing of the phases upstream of devices such as multiphase pumps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Assignee: The University of Tulsa
    Inventors: Ramin Dabirian, Srinivas Swaroop Kolla, Ram S. Mohan, Ovadia Shoham
  • Patent number: 11035180
    Abstract: A mechanical-hydraulic integrated releasing device includes an upper joint, a lower joint and a pawl. The upper joint and the lower joint are respectively connected to two ends of the pawl. An outer side of the pawl is sleeved with a releasing sleeve capable of moving in an axial direction of the pawl. A step is arranged on an outer wall of a ratchet of the pawl. A groove matching the step is arranged on an inner wall of the releasing sleeve, and the step and the groove cooperate to limit the pawl. A releasing sleeve upper portion is arranged between the releasing sleeve and the upper joint, one end of the releasing sleeve upper portion is inserted into the releasing sleeve, and the other end is sleeved on an outer portion of the upper joint and connected to the upper joint via a start pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: CHINA PETROLEUM & CHEMICAL CORPORATION LTD.
    Inventors: Wei Zou, Menghua Zhang, Lian Liu, Bowei Wang, Lingyun Fan, Jin Xie, Shengfu Zhou, Wenxia Li, Kun Yang
  • Patent number: 10596530
    Abstract: A fluid injection device includes a housing and a valve stem. The housing includes an inlet arm having an inlet orifice for receiving a feeder fluid. An outlet arm has an outlet orifice to discharge a mixed fluid. A venturi tube is between the inlet and outlet arms. The inlet arm, veturi tube and outlet arm define a nonlinear fluid pathway where the venturi tube redefines a portion of the nonlinear fluid pathway as a constricted fluid pathway. A diverter port is used to divert a portion of the feeder fluid from the inlet arm into the container and an injection port is used to receive product from the container. A valve arm is collinearly aligned with the venturi tube and the valve stem is positioned within the valve arm and adjusts the volume of the constricted fluid pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: Chapin Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: David Dubiel
  • Patent number: 10520117
    Abstract: A cooling pipe joint which enables easy fine adjustment of the length of a cooling pipe which extends from the cooling pipe joint. The cooling pipe joint is provided with a base part, a fastening member which is fastened to the base part, a deforming member which is arranged between the base part and the fastening member, and a first slanted surface which slants with respect to a center axis. This first slanted surface presses against the deforming member by the force of fastening the fastening member to the base part and makes the deforming member deform to a direction approaching the center axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: Fanuc Corporation
    Inventor: Suguru Takamizawa
  • Patent number: 10159979
    Abstract: A high volume microfluidic system for producing emulsions includes a fluid distribution network to produce uniformly sized emulsions and encapsulates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: KING ABDULLAH UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Ian G. Foulds, David Conchouso González, David Castro
  • Patent number: 10081429
    Abstract: Aircraft, air conditioning systems, and air diffusers that may be used to create a quiet, comfortable environment within an aircraft cabin are disclosed. For example, an aircraft cabin air diffuser, which may be used in an air conditioning system and/or an aircraft, may include an inlet section, a neck section downstream of the inlet section, an outlet section downstream of the neck section, and a flow controller within the neck section. The flow controller may be a passive pressure controller (configured to affect air flow through the passive pressure controller in response to an air pressure differential across the passive pressure controller) and/or a vortex inducer (configured to create a vortex of air downstream of the vortex inducer).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Matthew George Trudeau
  • Patent number: 10041506
    Abstract: A system for discharging compressed air from a compressor includes a air distribution manifold that is in fluid communication with the compressor via a conduit and at least one discharge line that is in fluid communication with the air distribution manifold. The discharge line defines a flow path from the air distribution manifold to atmosphere. The discharge line comprises a coupling pipe that is coupled to the air distribution manifold, a sparger section that is disposed downstream from the coupling pipe and at least one restrictor plate that is disposed between the coupling pipe and the sparger section within the flow path. The restrictor plate comprises at least one aperture that provides a pressure drop of the compressed air between the air distribution manifold and the sparger section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Hua Zhang, James Frederik den Outer, Mark Edward Heavner, Mark Patrick Hayes
  • Patent number: 9867722
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for filling a therapeutic substance or drug within a hollow wire that forms a stent. The stent is placed within a chamber housing a fluid drug formulation. During filling, the chamber is maintained at or near the vapor-liquid equilibrium of the solvent of the fluid drug formulation. To fill the stent, a portion of the stent is placed into contact with the fluid drug formulation until a lumenal space defined by the hollow wire is filled with the fluid drug formulation via capillary action. After filling is complete, the stent is retracted such that the stent is no longer in contact with the fluid drug formulation. The solvent vapor pressure within the chamber is reduced to evaporate a solvent of the fluid drug formulation. A wicking means may control transfer of the fluid drug formulation into the stent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.
    Inventors: Justin Peterson, James Mitchell, Abby Schlichting, Nathanael Glucklich, Joseph Traina, Rajen Kumar
  • Patent number: 9835282
    Abstract: A drain fitting for use in an irrigation system for draining water from the irrigation system, regardless of pipe size in the irrigation system, generally includes a grip portion and a neck coupled to the grip portion. The neck defines a first engagement portion having a first diameter, for coupling the drain fitting to a pipe of the irrigation system having a diameter corresponding to the first diameter of the first engagement portion, and a second engagement portion having a second diameter, different from the first diameter, for coupling the drain fitting to a pipe of the irrigation system having a diameter corresponding to the second diameter of the second engagement portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: Blazing Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron Boaz, Sean Hansen, Duane K. Smith
  • Patent number: 9109932
    Abstract: A pipeline or measuring tube having at least one insulating layer, at least in certain regions, and comprising, manufactured in a primary shaping method, a tubular element, which has an otherwise closed structure and which has at least one region with an open-pored, cellular structure, wherein the material of the insulating layer, in the applying of the insulating layer, can penetrate into the pores of the open-pored, cellular structure of the tubular element and the insulating layer has on the side to be insulated a closed, homogeneous structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: ENDRESS + HAUSER FLOWTEC AG
    Inventors: Frank Voigt, Werner Wohlgemuth
  • Patent number: 8905080
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for treatment of material transported through the device comprising at least one porous element consisting of solid, for example metallic, structure which allows cross-flow of the material through the porous element. A device in accordance with the invention is particularly useful as mixer or heat exchanger or to carry out chemical reactions under homogenous and heterogeneous conditions. Such a device hereinafter also referred as reactor may comprises a tube (1) having a cylindrical wall (2) with one inlet end (3) and one outlet end (4). Arranged in the tube (1) is at least one cylindrical porous element (5) consisting of solid metal structure, wherein said porous element (5) comprises a plurality of hollow spaces that are connected to each other and form an interconnected cavity network and wherein the at least one porous element (5) and the cylindrical wall (2) are made in one piece. The porosity ? of the at least one porous element (5) is between 0.8 and 0.95.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignees: ETH Zurich, Premex Reactor AG
    Inventors: Francesco Mascarello, Philipp Rudolf Von Rohr, Cédric Hutter, David Ruppen
  • Patent number: 8875905
    Abstract: A plug assembly (11) adapted to be received in an opening at a first end of a pipe (13) for preventing debris passing therein. The plug assembly (11) comprises a first portion (21) adapted to be received in the opening, and a second portion (23) to ensure the first portion (21) does not move inwardly away from the opening. The plug assembly (11) also comprises a drainage means (33) to allow fluid to pass through the plug assembly (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Craig Rothleitner
  • Publication number: 20140224369
    Abstract: A steam diffusing apparatus may include a steam inlet tube having steam-dispersion openings adjacent a lower end thereof and a mass of filaments surrounding the plurality of steam dispersion openings. The steam diffusing apparatus may also include a retaining tube surrounding the mass of filaments, a housing surrounding the retaining tube and having outlet openings therein, and an upper end cap coupled to an upper end of the housing and having an opening therein receiving the steam inlet tube. A lower end cap may be coupled to a lower end of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: TAYLOR'S INDUSTRIAL COATINGS, INC.
    Inventors: Gregory Taylor, Scott TAYLOR
  • Publication number: 20140020920
    Abstract: A hydraulic accumulator includes an accumulator housing defining a gas reservoir and a liquid volume. A flexible membrane is positioned within the accumulator housing and separates the gas reservoir and the liquid volume. A flow control screen defines a wall of the accumulator housing, has a screen thickness, and includes an exterior face opposing a membrane engagement face. A first slot is formed through the exterior face and has a first slot depth that is less than the screen thickness. A second slot is formed through the membrane engagement face and has a second slot depth that is less than the screen thickness. The first slot and the second slot intersect to fluidly connect an exterior of the accumulator housing with the liquid volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR INC.
    Inventors: Dennis Wai Man Tang, Lauritz Pillers
  • Patent number: 8602063
    Abstract: A fluid system comprises a pressure vessel with a baffle oriented at a skew angle. The baffle divides the vessel into first and second volumes. A first port is provided to introduce a pressurizing fluid into the first volume, and a second port is provided to circulate a working fluid within the second volume. A purge aperture is provided to purge the pressurizing fluid from the second volume across the baffle into the first volume, and a flow aperture is provided to transfer the working fluid through the baffle between the first and second volumes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Terrance R. Snider, Kurt J. Doughty
  • Publication number: 20130074968
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sanitary component, namely a stream regulator or stream former for flowing fluid media, consisting of property-defining components in a sandwich-like arrangement in the direction of flow which comprise at least one screen attachment, one diffuser plate assembly as well as a shell body having segments of stream-forming openings extending across its cross-sectional surface. The property-defining components are exchangeable and combinable so as to realize adaptability to different user and user requirements. A locking means is provided e.g. on the inner circumference of the shell body for this purpose as is a corresponding counter-locking means on the outer circumference of the diffuser plate assembly. The diffuser plate assembly exhibits, at least on its exterior, a flow rate class-specifying optical code and the shell body exhibits a stream type-specifying, namely laminar or aerated, optical code.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: NEOPERL GMBH
    Inventor: Oliver Denzler
  • Patent number: 8020663
    Abstract: According to the invention, at least part of the edge of the hole is loosely surrounded with a mesh structure so as to create a space between the latter and said edge part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Airbus Operations SAS
    Inventors: Alois Sengissen, Bastien Caruelle, Jean-François Piet, Stéphane Perrin Decroux, Nicolas Molin, Pascal Souchotte, Emmanuel Jondeau, Jean-Michel Perrin, Constantin Sandu
  • Patent number: 7980273
    Abstract: A feature of the present invention is it is adaptable to any pre-existing storm catch basin system. Another feature of the present invention is that it permits empirical analysis and verification of the draw down rate. Another feature is the present invention can be adjusted or modified to increase or decrease the rate of draw down after it has been installed to insure regulatory conditions are precisely met without difficulty. Changes in future regulatory draw down rates can be easily implemented. A flow restriction device has an orifice plate, the orifice plate having a frontal surface area A and at least one opening for the passage of fluid of an area Oa, wherein Oa is less than A. The flow restriction device may also employ a screen debris plate, the screen debris plate having a plurality of spaced openings for the passage of fluid; the sum area of the openings being ?Osp wherein ?Osp is greater than Oa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Bruce Locke Robinson
  • Publication number: 20110011478
    Abstract: To provide conditioned fluid flows, a base body has a main flow duct formed therein with a bypass duct that is branched off from and led back to the main flow duct. An exchangeable flow conditioning insert includes a flow resistance element and is adapted to be arranged in the main flow duct relative to the bypass duct in an axial installation position such that the flow resistance element generates a pressure difference between ports of the bypass duct at the main flow duct.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventors: Stefan Chalupa, Mario Reiher, Johann Gunnesch, Jan Schuler, Gunter Kabisch, Juergen Wiedemann
  • Patent number: 7730997
    Abstract: The present invention provides an air intake noise reducing device, an internal combustion engine fitted with the air intake noise reducing device and a structure for fitting the air intake noise reducing device to the internal combustion engine. The air intake noise reducing device comprises a gasket (2) comprising a ring member (2a) held by connecting surfaces of an air intake passage (100) and protrusion holding portions (2b) extending from the ring member (2a) toward a center of the air intake passage (100); and a net member (3) comprising a net (3a) for rectifying intake air and connecting protrusions (3b) extending outward from the net (3). The connecting protrusions (3b) are held in the protruding holding portions (2b) such that the ring member (3) is firmly secured to the gasket (3). The air intake noise reducing device constituted by in the above-mentioned manner can reduce assembly man-hours without deteriorating a sealing property of the air passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Kokoku Intech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sadao Asada, Takuya Funatsu, Kenji Yamashita
  • Publication number: 20100132802
    Abstract: A gas adaptor (10) adapted in use to reduce the pressure of a gas or flow rate of a liquefied gas, said gas adaptor (10) having means (14) for connection to a gas source; an adaptor body (13, 13A) having an internal bore (22) in which is located a ceramic insert (27); and a capillary tube or passage (24) in fluid communication with the internal bore (22) wherein in use the gas or liquefied gas is caused to flow through the internal bore (22) of the adaptor body (13, 13A) and through the ceramic insert (27) and subsequently through the capillary tube or passage (24).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: BANTIX WORLDWIDE PTY LTD
    Inventor: Andrew Coventry
  • Publication number: 20100058840
    Abstract: A High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) system including a pressure reducer assembly for reducing pressurized streams to ambient pressure. The pressure reducer assembly includes first and second flow restrictors, each coupled to a common chamber that acts as a surge suppressor that mitigates pressure spikes in the discharge lines. The flow restrictors may comprise tubes having a high length-to-diameter ratio. The pressure losses through the flow restrictors, in combination with transition losses as the flow stream enters and exits the chamber, are sufficient to reduce a discharge stream from a specified inlet pressure to substantially ambient pressure, thus eliminating the need for pressurized waste containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Michael Schumacher, Robert Montividas
  • Patent number: 7648085
    Abstract: A drip emitter is provided for delivering irrigation water from a supply tube to an emitter outlet at a reduced and relatively constant flow rate. Water enters the emitter through a first inlet and proceeds into a first chamber. When the water pressure is above a predetermined level, a one-directional valve opens to allow fluid flow past the first chamber, through a tortuous path flow channel, and through an emitter outlet. A second inlet is used to compensate for water pressure fluctuations in the supply tube to maintain output flow at a relatively constant rate. Water enters the second inlet and presses a flexible diaphragm toward a water metering surface to provide pressure-dependent control of the output flow. A copper member is mounted to the emitter over the emitter outlet to prevent plant root intrusion into the emitter outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventors: Rick Mavrakis, Brian Pope, Samir Shah, Christopher Leland O'Neal, David Laybourn
  • Patent number: 7584665
    Abstract: A pressure restrictor for use with a pressure sensing element comprising a cylindrical member of a given diameter and length having a plurality of apertures directed from a first end to a second end is disclosed. A pressure restrictor housing holds and positions the cylindrical member in close proximity to the pressure sensing element at the second end by clamping the pressure restrictor between the housing and element. The apertures provided in the pressure restrictor are the sole path for application of pressure to the sensing element. The sensing element is a double diaphragm silicon sensor where one diaphragm is exposed to pressure and the other diaphragm is not exposed to pressure. Each diaphragm has located thereon a half-bridge wherein both half bridges are connected to provide a full bridge. The full bridge provides an output strictly proportional to pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Kulite Semiconductor Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony D. Kurtz, Elias Geras
  • Publication number: 20090173405
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sanitary component, namely a stream regulator or stream former for flowing fluid media, consisting of property-defining components in a sandwich-like arrangement in the direction of flow which comprise at least one screen attachment, one diffuser plate assembly as well as a shell body having segments of stream-forming openings extending across its cross-sectional surface. The property-defining components are exchangeable and combinable so as to realize adaptability to different user and user requirements. A locking means is provided e.g. on the inner circumference of the shell body for this purpose as is a corresponding counter-locking means on the outer circumference of the diffuser plate assembly. The diffuser plate assembly exhibits, at least on its exterior, a flow rate class-specifying optical code and the shell body exhibits a stream type-specifying, namely laminar or aerated, optical code.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2005
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: NEOPERL GmbH
    Inventor: Oliver Denzler
  • Patent number: 7516761
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mass tube (1) for an air measuring sensor (3) comprising a metal grid (4) acting as a flow rectifier arranged perpendicular to the air flow (2). At least two fixing elements (5) are arranged on the measuring tube (1), said elements extending inwards in a radial manner, whereon the metal grid (4) is fixed by pre-tensioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Stephen Setescak
  • Publication number: 20080242210
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fluid throttle screen for low-noise control of a fluid volume flow rate (Q) in a pipe and the use of such a throttle screen in an aircraft climate control system. In addition, the present invention relates to a climate control system in an aircraft in whose pipe system at least one such throttle screen is installed. The throttle screen according to the present invention comprises multiple friction elements extending longitudinally in the flow direction, which are situated at a distance to one another in such a way that a fluid is throttled continuously over the extension of the fluid throttle screen as a result of friction on the individual friction elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: AIRBUS DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventors: Martin Viertel, Klaus Boock
  • Patent number: 7370675
    Abstract: The flow conditioner for a fluid transport pipe, comprises a support-forming substantially tubular main body, at least one flow rectifier disposed inside the main body essentially perpendicularly to the axis XX? thereof, and a porous plate disposed inside the main body upstream from the flow rectifier and parallel thereto. The elements of the conditioner are disposed in such a manner that a substantial fraction of the fluid flow passes through the flow rectifier and the porous plate in the absence of the porous plate becoming clogged. A bypass circuit is provided to ensure fluid flow continuity in the event of the porous plate becoming clogged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Gaz de France
    Inventors: Julien Cancade, Jean-Luc Beccat
  • Patent number: 7185678
    Abstract: A noise reducing device for a pressurized fluid stream, i.e., a gas, includes a housing. An inlet end and an outlet end of the housing each have at least one orifice for passing a fluid therethrough. The inlet end orifice includes an inlet face and an outlet face and the inlet end orifice is configured for maintaining a backpressure upstream of the inlet end orifice. A diffusing pack material is disposed within the housing. One or more stiffeners may be disposed within the diffusing pack material to ensure that the diffusing pack material maintains contact with the outlet face of the inlet end orifice and/or to prevent the migration of the diffusing pack material within the housing, thereby maintaining a homogeneous distribution of the pack material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Nitram Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: James Dennis Stell, Stephen Eric Witt
  • Patent number: 7131463
    Abstract: Pressure pulsations are damped in and a hydraulic unit by a device including a housing with an inlet and an outlet having a throttle and a filter preceding the throttle. The filter and the throttle are combined into a one-piece function element, which can be produced without metal-cutting machining and which can be fixed in the interior of the housing. This preceding filter prevents clogging of the throttle by contaminants in the pressure fluid, without requiring additional expense for parts or assembly. The function element can be produced economically in a minimum number of work steps, can be manipulated without problems, and in an advantageous refinement makes it possible to avoid unwanted accumulations of air in the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Schlitzkus, Andreas Weh
  • Patent number: 6893485
    Abstract: A kit for constructing a de-aerator that includes a concentrator is adapted to be connected to a standard pipe coupling. The concentrator is inserted in the path of liquid conveyed through the pipe coupling for aggregating gas, and directing the gas to a cavity. The cavity is encased by the fitting which is a vertical, cylindrical sheath with one end adapted to be inserted into standard pipe couplings, and the other end adapted to be connected with the cap. The cap includes a vent adapted to open and shut in response to lowering and raising of the level of the liquid in the cavity below/above a threshold, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Swabey, Ogilvy, Renault
    Inventor: James MacDuff
  • Patent number: 6830062
    Abstract: A dripper apparatus for a water spigot includes a coupler having a threaded female member for connecting to a water spigot. A generally cylindrical elongate member has a longitudinal portion in fluid communication with the female member. The longitudinal portion has an upper portion that defines a seat within the female member. A flow controller sits on the seat. A filter screen upstream the flow controller collects particles in water flowing therethrough so that the controller does not become clogged. The flow controller includes a housing that is provided with an upper inlet for receiving a first flow rate of water from a water spigot. The housing also includes a cavity therewithin and the cavity is in fluid contact with the upper inlet. A flexible membrane is housed within the cavity and floats when water enters the cavity via the upper inlet. The upper inlet is slotted at the top thereof for further filtering water flowing therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: John R. Montpetit
  • Patent number: 6810683
    Abstract: An apparatus for manipulating the air temperature within an interior compartment of a vehicle includes a compressor, a condenser, and an evaporator interconnected in a manner to remove heat from air in the interior compartment. A thermostatic expansion valve is connected between the condenser and evaporator, and includes an inlet and an outlet. A silencer screen is positioned at the outlet of the thermostatic expansion valve to reduce turbulence in refrigerant flow exiting the thermostatic expansion valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Harry E. Eustice
  • Patent number: 6805160
    Abstract: A flow control device to be coupled to the intake of a pump including a base, an outlet plate having an outlet formed therein generally opposing the base, and a plurality of annular baffles carried between the base and the outlet plate. The annular baffles are spaced apart to define a plurality of inlets. Each of the plurality of annular baffles has an inner diameter, the inner diameters defining an interior void.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Inventor: William H. Keichler
  • Patent number: 6755209
    Abstract: The fill valve incorporates a housing (8) that has a vertical water-carrying channel (24) that leads from an inlet (49) to be fastened on the flush tank bottom (2) to a float-controlled diaphragm valve (50). The diaphragm valve (50) incorporates in a diaphragm (43) a passage for the pressure equalization between a first chamber (51) in front of the diaphragm (43) and a second chamber (52) behind the diaphragm (43). To actuate the diaphragm valve (50) a pilot valve (58) is provided. The diaphragm valve (50) is disposed laterally on the housing (8), thus permitting a low overall height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Geberit Technik AG
    Inventor: Paul Wey
  • Patent number: 6668863
    Abstract: A throttle element with a gap filter for use in a fuel pump is proposed, which is press-fitted into a conduit in the housing of an injection pump. By means of the press fitting, a good sealing action and at the same time low-cost production and mounting are attained. The throttle element can furthermore be designed economically and compactly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Eberhard Maier
  • Publication number: 20030089410
    Abstract: A bladder surge tank includes a liquid port, and a bladder disposed therein for providing a surge absorbing interface between liquid and pressurized gas within the tank. The bladder surge tank can be horizontally or vertically oriented. In a horizontal embodiment, the surge tank includes a nozzle system disposed horizontally therein that is separate from the liquid port and that is integrally joined to the interior wall. Such nozzle system includes a nozzle member positioned between the liquid port and the bladder, and comprises a plurality of perforations disposed therethrough. In a vertical embodiment, the surge tank includes a nozzle system disposed vertically therein that is part of the liquid port and that includes a nozzle member having a plurality of perforations disposed therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: Winston B. Young
  • Patent number: 6561225
    Abstract: A passive flow control valve including a barrier member positioned in a fluid conduit between an upstream conduit portion and a downstream conduit portion. The barrier member substantially prevents fluid flow around a barrier member perimeter. The passive flow control valve also includes barrier member orifices extending through the barrier member, which allow controlled fluid flow through the barrier member orifices. When the fluid flows through the upstream conduit portion and encounters the barrier member, the fluid is prevented from passing around the barrier member perimeter and is forced to flow through the barrier member orifices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Red Valve Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Spiros G. Raftis
  • Publication number: 20020104573
    Abstract: A passive flow control valve including a barrier member positioned in a fluid conduit between an upstream conduit portion and a downstream conduit portion. The barrier member substantially prevents fluid flow around a barrier member perimeter. The passive flow control valve also includes barrier member orifices extending through the barrier member, which allow controlled fluid flow through the barrier member orifices. When the fluid flows through the upstream conduit portion and encounters the barrier member, the fluid is prevented from passing around the barrier member perimeter and is forced to flow through the barrier member orifices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Applicant: Red Valve Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Spiros G. Raftis
  • Patent number: 6158455
    Abstract: A cap assembly for providing continuous drip to a faucet exposed to freezing temperatures such as a faucet located outside a house. The cap assembly includes a cap member adapted to be mounted over the end of a faucet, which cap member includes a cylindrical wall portion and a closed end portion having an opening therein. The cap assembly includes an internal annular ridge which is adapted to receive a flow disc within the ridge, which flow disc includes an opening which is non-aligned with the opening in the closed end portion of the cap in order to create a dripping action. A rubber washer is positioned in sealing engagement with the internal annular ridge and the flow disc. A filter member is located within the rubber washer such that, upon mounting of the cap assembly over the end portion of a faucet, a continuous dripping flow through the cap assembly may be provided in order to prevent water within the faucet or within piping leading to the faucet from freezing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventors: William H. Marshall, Robert E. Williams
  • Patent number: 6152182
    Abstract: A flow regulator (1) is provided having a flow dispersion device (5) after which in the flow direction (Pfi) a flow regulation device (8) is connected. This flow regulation device (8) has several deflectors arranged in the flow path crosswise to the flow direction (Pf1). For the flow regulator (1) according to the invention it is characteristic, that the deflectors (9) are constructed in a pin or ring shape and set apart at a distance from each other, are connected with at least one mounting part (3, 4) as a single piece, that the at least one mounting part (3, 4) is constructed as an injection molded plastic part with its molded-on deflectors (9) as a single piece, and that the at least one mounting part (3, 4) can be inserted into a flow regulator housing or is constructed as a flow regulator housing (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Dieter Wildfang GmbH
    Inventors: Hermann Grether, Christoph Weis
  • Patent number: 6089790
    Abstract: A self-cleaning intake screen assembly for preventing debris, fish, and other wildlife from being transferred from a waterway such as a lake or river, which includes a conical support structure, a screen and a screen sweeping assembly. The conical support structure has a circular base, a cap plate, and a plurality of support studs extending therebetween. The screen extends between the base and the cap plate and is affixed to the support studs. The screen sweeping assembly is rotatably mounted to the cap plate for sweeping debris off of the screen. A flow restrictor is disposed inside the conical support structure for restricting water flow through a portion of the screen in order to reduce differences in water flow rates through different portions of the screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventors: Russell M. Berry, III, Frances E. Borcalli
  • Patent number: 6047737
    Abstract: An improved method and device for attaching a filter to the entrance of a pipe has been described. The filter attaching device includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion includes a plurality of projections for securing the filter to the device. The lower portion is connected to the upper portion and retains the filter in engagement with the entrance to the pipe. The lower portion is inserted into the pipe so that the filter is brought into contact with the entrance to the pipe. The lower portion includes means for frictionally engaging the walls of the pipe so that the device and filter are retained in a fixed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Inventor: Koji Nakamura
  • Patent number: 6000433
    Abstract: Choke for connection to a fluid flow passage for controlling fluid flow through the passage in a predetermined direction. The choke has structure for attachment to the fluid passage. It also has an internal fluid flow passage, which has at least one constriction. One or more mesh filters are located in the internal fluid flow passage of the choke, upstream of the constriction, to remove debris from the fluid which would otherwise interfere with fluid flow through the orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Westinghouse Air Brake Co.
    Inventors: John B. Carroll, Michael McNeil, Gary M. Sich
  • Patent number: 5948128
    Abstract: A device for draining condensate from a steam system while substantially eliminating the passage of steam. The device has flanged inlet and outlet ends and includes a unitary Y-shaped body defining a fluid flow conduit, a filter device disposed within the Y-shaped body, and flanged inlet and outlet body ends configured for corresponding bolted connection with the flanged inlet and outlet ends of the steam system. The device also has an insert housing removably connected within the Y-shaped body and abutting the flanged outlet end of the steam system, and a nozzle structure removably positioned within the insert housing and having a constricted passageway in fluid communication with the fluid flow conduit. The insert housing can only be removed from the Y-shaped body by first disconnecting the Y-shaped body from the steam system, providing added safety for steam system operators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Engineering Resources, Inc.
    Inventors: Panos N. Stavropoulos, Paul E. DiNardo
  • Patent number: 5927338
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved mixing eductor (10) of the type wherein the primary liquid (17), e.g., water, is in a main stream (201) flowing in a downstream direction. A venturi tube (51) is in the eductor (10) and has an annular sharp edge (131) in the main stream (201), thereby dividing such stream (201) into a primary stream (179) and a secondary stream (181) around the primary stream (179). The eductor (10) has an air gap (103) and a flow guide (47) downstream thereof. In a specific embodiment, the flow guide (47) is annular around the venturi tube (51) and the tube (51) and the guide (47) are in spaced telescoped relationship. Several embodiments of the eductor (10) and a new method for mixing liquids are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson Commercial Markets, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Boticki, James L. Bournoville, James H. Lohr, Richard E. Rakoczy, Charles E. Seaman, Jr.