Electrically Actuated Valve Patents (Class 251/129.01)
  • Patent number: 10082925
    Abstract: An operator control device for a domestic appliance includes an electronic display panel having a cover, and an operator control element which is movable relative to the display panel to set operating conditions of the domestic appliance. The operator control element is embedded, at least in part, in the cover of the electronic display panel, and includes an annular front part having an upper face which projects, at least in part, above a level of an outer face of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: BSH Haugeräte GmbH
    Inventors: Ulrich Goss, Robert Sachon
  • Patent number: 10082218
    Abstract: An electromagnetic actuating device, in particular for actuating an hydraulic slide valve of an automatic transmission. It has a pole body, an armature element having a first channel that extends axially overall, and an actuating element, which is separate from the armature element, the armature element being guided in the pole body, and first effective section of the armature element on the end face is at least intermittently in contact with a second effective section of the actuating element on the end face, the first channel fluidically communicating with a second channel implemented in or on the actuating element when the effective sections are in contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Alexander Klenk, Klaus Schudt
  • Patent number: 10066761
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes a valve, an actuator for opening and closing the valve, and a positioner for controlling the actuator. At least one limit switch assembly is mounted between the positioner and the actuator. The limit switch assembly connects the actuator and positioner so that movement of the actuator valve is conveyed to the positioner through the limit switch assembly. The limit switch assembly is configured to provide a limit signal when the valve is in one or more limit positions. The limit switch assembly has a calibration mechanism for adjusting the one or more limit positions using an input member accessible from outside of the limit switch housing when the limit switch is installed in the valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: Schneider Electric Systems USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Stéphane Marc Louis Hernu, Jonathan Dostert
  • Patent number: 9995795
    Abstract: A system and method to detect the loss or disruption of one or more phases of a three phase alternating current (AC) power source used in the operation of a valve actuator. The loss of one or more phases of a three phase AC power source may cause a peak in AC power output. While a peak in AC power output may not affect an operation of electronic circuitry, all three phases are often required to safely operate other hardware components, such as an AC motor that is associated with the valve actuator. Therefore, in response to detecting the loss or disruption of at least one phase of a three phase AC power source, this disclosure presents a system and method to inhibit damaging operations such as operating an AC motor associated with a valve actuator, and continuing to operate communications and diagnostic circuitry to report the condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: Tri-Tec Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Lynn Cordray, Michael M. Van Schoiack, Roy Gilbert
  • Patent number: 9910578
    Abstract: A user interface for controlling a plumbing fixture includes an electronic display configured to display multiple different graphical menus for controlling a plurality of valves. The user interface includes a selector control configured to receive input from a user for navigating the multiple different graphical menus and for selecting items displayed in the multiple different graphical menus. A controller receives a first user input from the selector control and causes the electronic display to switch from displaying one of the graphical menus to another of the graphical menus in response to the first user input. The controller receives a second user input from the selector control and causes the plurality of valves to make multiple different adjustments in response to the second user input based on which of the multiple different graphical menus are displayed when the second user input is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: KOHLER CO.
    Inventors: Donald P. Freier, Rafael Alfredo Rexach
  • Patent number: 9901928
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a calibration cartridge for an in vitro medical diagnostic device. The device also includes a removable assay cartridge containing a polymer body with channels for fluid movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: EDAN DIAGNOSTICS
    Inventors: Chao Lin, Paul Swanson, Zhixiang Jason Zhao
  • Patent number: 9890729
    Abstract: A fuel injection control unit includes an injection amount detector and a correction unit. When implementing partial lift injection where a valve closing operation is started after the valve body starts a valve opening operation and before a valve body reaches a maximum valve open position, the injection amount detector detects a physical quantity (valve closing timing) having a correlation with an injection amount. When implementing the partial lift injection, the correction unit corrects an energization time of a fuel injection valve on the basis of a detection value (learning value) that was previously detected by the injection amount detector. An energization time in a small amount region longer than a predetermined time in the partial lift injection is allowed to be corrected on the basis of a value (small amount time detection value) detected in the small amount region by the injection amount detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Makoto Tanaka, Hiroaki Nagatomo
  • Patent number: 9856993
    Abstract: A valve device includes a valve having an electrodynamic actuator. The electrodynamic actuator includes a movably mounted control element having a coil and a magnet arrangement immovable relative to the coil. A driving force caused by energization of the coil and transmitted to the control element substantially is linearly dependent on the current intensity. A front-end electronic unit is connected with the coil and includes a capacitor connected in parallel to the coil. A method for controlling a valve as mentioned above provides that, upon actuation of the electrodynamic actuator, during energization of the coil by a voltage source, a capacitor connected in parallel to the coil is charged. After termination of the energization by the voltage source, the coil is energized further by a discharge of the capacitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Buerkert Werke GmbH
    Inventors: Maik Fuchs, Ralf Scheibe, Sebastian Kahl
  • Patent number: 9805588
    Abstract: A wireless fire protection system valve inspection and monitoring system, including: a plurality of valves, each valve including a detecting unit adapted to detect valve state information for the valve, wherein the valve state information comprises at least one of an open state, a partially-open state, and a closed state; at least one collection unit that wirelessly receives the valve state information from the detecting units; and an information module that receives the valve state information from the collection unit and aggregates, stores, and/or reports the valve state information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignees: Factory Mutual Insurance Company, SYNESIX SOLUTIONS AG
    Inventors: Louis Alan Gritzo, Richard Smith, Francesco Tamanini, Markus Dierkes, Stefan Zanetti
  • Patent number: 9797119
    Abstract: An electronic faucet is provided that includes a spout having a passageway configured to conduct fluid flow through the spout, an electrically operable valve coupled to the passageway, and a capacitive sensor coupled to the faucet. A controller may dynamically change on/off thresholds and monitor a stability signal to determine when to turn off the electrically operable valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: Delta Faucet Company
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Belz, David M. Burke
  • Patent number: 9797121
    Abstract: A system and method for unclogging a drain involving at least one internal member and at least one external member. At least one member is ferromagnetic, and at least one member is a magnet. External members may have handles. Internal members are disposed inside a pipe and external members are disposed outside a pipe. When an external member is moved, the magnetic force between the internal and external members causes the internal member to move. Internal members can be disposed such that they cause a clog to move further into the drain system. Internal members can also be disposed such that they are below the clog when it forms, allowing the internal members to move the clog out of the pipe system, into the sink, toilet, or other basin. Safety members can be disposed below the internal members to prevent loss of internal members into pipe system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Inventor: Joe Francis
  • Patent number: 9752783
    Abstract: The design and assembly of a smart device constituent of a micro-machined (a.k.a. MEMS, Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) mass flow sensor and an electrically controllable valve for applications in safety enhancement and intermit connectivity for residential or commercial gas range is disclosed in the present invention. The said smart device detects the gas flow at the unattended situations and sends information to the destined mobile devices of the users via the network such that it enables the users to remotely execute actions of either shutting off the gas supply or call for relevant party's immediate attention. The said smart device shall also automatically shut off the gas supply should the transmitted signal to users failed to send feedback signal such that it can prevent the safety incidents due to leakage or overheating or even fires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: Wisenstech Ltd.
    Inventors: Liji Huang, Chih-Chang Chen
  • Patent number: 9659698
    Abstract: An electromechanical solenoid has a solenoid assembly including a solenoid coil with a coil aperture formed therein. A pole piece assembly is positioned at least partially within the coil aperture, the pole piece assembly including a first pole piece and a second pole piece positioned at least partially within an hour-glass shaped alignment member. The first pole piece has a first bore and a first outer tapered surface extending away from the first bore, and the second pole piece has a second bore and a second outer tapered surface extending away from the second bore. An armature is moveable within the first bore and the second bore in response to a magnetic field produced by the solenoid coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: HUSCO AUTOMOTIVE HOLDINGS LLC
    Inventors: Matthew Schmitz, Austin Schmitt, Kirt Stephens, Kevin Rode
  • Patent number: 9567736
    Abstract: A shutoff valve connects between a toilet fill valve and a water supply line for a toilet tank. A housing containing a valve mechanism is positionable between open and closed positions. A latching mechanism holds the valve mechanism in the open position unless receiving an electric signal from an electronic sensing system upon detection of a fault condition. A manually-actuated reset lever returns the valve mechanism to the open position. The electronic sensing system includes at least one water level sensor for sensing a water level in the toilet tank, the electronic sensing system programmed to detect a slow flush valve leak, a stuck-open flush valve, or a high water level fault. Another water level sensor may be included in the toilet bowl to detect a plugged toilet fault condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Inventor: Kermit L. Achterman
  • Patent number: 9546743
    Abstract: A substantially leak-free, sealable microvalve that can be repeatedly opened and sealed is presented. The resealable microvalve includes a block with a through via and a sealing plate. The gap between the block and the sealing plate is sealed by a sealing material. The sealing material can be melted when heat is applied and can be solidified when heat is absent. To close the resealable microvalve, heat is applied by flowing a current through a resistive heater and an actuator brings the block and the sealing plate into a contacting position. By removing the heat, the sealing material is solidified and creates a sealed state. To open the resealable microvalve, heat is applied to the sealing material. When the sealing material melts, the actuator moves the block and the sealing plate into a spaced apart position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: Northeastern University
    Inventors: Carol Livermore-Clifford, Chenye Yang
  • Patent number: 9321445
    Abstract: A method for operating a hydraulic system with a plurality of consumers an electrically controllable pressure supply device and an electrically actuable inlet valve, per consumer, which inlet valve is arranged between the pressure supply device and the consumer, wherein a pressure/volume relationship is predefined or determined for each consumer, wherein each consumer is assigned to a first group or a second group of consumers, wherein the first group of consumers includes at least one consumer, and wherein, in order to set predefined consumer-specific setpoint pressures, the first group of consumers is connected via the respectively opened inlet valve to the pressure supply device, and the inlet valves of the consumers of the second group are closed, wherein the inlet valve of a single, selected consumer of the second group is opened while being regulated to build up a pressure, and a brake system for motor vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co. oHG
    Inventor: Harald Biller
  • Patent number: 9236740
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing harmonic noise from a power transmission line transmitting electricity at a primary frequency includes a filter and a controller coupled to the sensor and to an actuator-generator. The filter separates electricity at a harmonic of a primary frequency from the electrical signal transmitted by the power transmission line. The controller is configured to modulate consumption of electricity from the power transmission line. The consumption is controlled by electrical actuation of the actuator-generator, such that the electrical actuation of the actuator-generator causes consumption of electricity from the power transmission line at a harmonic of the primary frequency. The actuator-generator is coupled to an elastically deformable component, such that electrical actuation of the actuator-generator generates tension in the elastically deformable component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: Elwha LLC
    Inventors: Alistair K. Chan, Geoffrey F. Deane, Aaron Fyke, William Gross, Roderick A. Hyde, Edward K. Y. Jung, Jordin T. Kare, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Clarence T. Tegreene, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9132423
    Abstract: A microfluidic cartridge and methods for performing a diagnostic, molecular or biochemical assay thereon, where all dried and/or liquid reagents necessary for the assay are contained in the cartridge and the assay requires only the addition of sample. Pneumohydraulic features, chamber and diaphragm technologies are introduced for overcoming the problems of bubble interference and reagent washout during operation of a microfluidic cartridge. The cartridges are inserted into a host instrument for performance of an assay and the cartridge is supplied as a consumable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: Micronics, Inc.
    Inventors: C. Frederick Battrell, Isaac Sprague, Matthew Scott Bragd, Jason Capodanno
  • Patent number: 9086042
    Abstract: A valve body for a fluid injection valve has a longitudinal axis and includes a base body. The base body has a sidewall defining a recess extending through the base body in an axial direction. The sidewall includes a magnetic material and has at least one opening that perforates the sidewall. The valve body further includes a cover element which includes a non-magnetic material and which is arranged to sealingly cover at least one opening. In addition a fluid injection valve and a method for producing the valve body are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE GMBH
    Inventors: Stefano Filippi, Mauro Grandi, Francesco Lenzi, Valerio Polidori
  • Patent number: 9063487
    Abstract: A fixing device includes a rotatable fixing member, a pressing member, and an induction heater. The induction heater includes an excitation coil, ferromagnetic cores, and a holder. The ferromagnetic cores include multiple arch cores and multiple side cores. The multiple arch cores are disposed facing an outer surface of a heat generation layer with the excitation coil interposed therebetween. The multiple side cores are disposed outside the excitation coil in a longitudinal direction of the induction heater so as to face both ends of each of the multiple arch cores. The multiple side cores are integrally inserted in the holder. The holder includes a spacer. The spacer contains a resin material used in the holder and provided in a close-facing portion located between at least one of the multiple arch cores and at least one of the multiple side cores to form a gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukari Isoe, Motokazu Hasegawa, Masanobu Yamagata
  • Publication number: 20150134081
    Abstract: A valve includes a case comprising a pin bore, a pin configured to move axially in the pin bore, wherein the pin seals the pin bore, a first channel in communication with the pin bore, a second channel in communication with the pin bore, wherein the second channel comprises a restrictor at a location offset from the first channel, a third channel in communication with the pin bore, wherein the third channel comprises a check valve, and the second channel and third channel are in communication with each other. The valve can be a miniature valve that is used in the control of hydraulic fluid in prosthesis, such as a prosthetic ankle joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: OTTO BOCK HEALTHCARE GMBH
    Inventors: Richard Geiger, David Kraige, Jeremy Frank, Jacob Loverich, Ben Gilbert Macomber, Adam Arabian
  • Publication number: 20150121951
    Abstract: An electronic expansion valve is provided, the valve needle component thereof is provided with an axial mounting hole, the screw rod position limiting portion is mounted at the bottom end of the screw rod and extends into the axial mounting hole, and the valve needle position limiting portion is mounted at an open end of the axial mounting hole; and a distance between the bottom end of the screw rod and a bottom wall of the axial mounting hole forms the predetermined buffer distance. When the refrigerant flows reversely, the structural design of the electronic expansion valve may, on one hand, simplify the control procedure, and on the other hand, avoid the problem that a screw rod is stuck because a valve needle component is not removed in time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: Zhejiang Sanhua Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Caiyi Zhan
  • Patent number: 9021995
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electromagnetic actuating device (1) for a camshaft adjustment device of an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle, with an elongated actuating element (2) forming an engagement region on the end side and movable by the force of a coil device (29) provided in a stationary manner, which actuating element preferably has in parts a cylindrical covering contour and penetrates a cut-out (8) in permanent magnet means (6) arranged on the shell side, which are constructed for cooperating with a stationary core region (5) comprising a core body (15), and which actuating element lies in a switching position with a contact surface (11), on the end side on the actuating element side, against a contact surface (10) on the core region side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: ETO Magnetic GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Golz
  • Patent number: 9011663
    Abstract: The present teachings relate to microfluidic valves and pumping systems, which may be suitable for controlling and facilitating liquid flow. Electrodes are disposed proximately to volumes containing a liquid. The liquid flow can be facilitated by electrowetting forces. Processes for controlling the flow of liquids, as well as for pumping liquids, are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Applied Biosystems, LLC
    Inventor: Umberto Ulmanella
  • Patent number: 9010723
    Abstract: An electric actuator has a motor, an electricity storing body, a switch and a resetting unit. The switch is provided in a supply path of electric power from the electricity storing body to the motor. The switch opens the supply path for electric power from the electricity storing body to the motor, in response to an instruction from an operator. The resetting unit is operated through receiving a supply of electric power from the external power supply when the external power supply has been restored from being cut off. The resetting unit closes the switch that is provided in the supply path of electric power from the electricity storing body to the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Azbil Corporation
    Inventors: Hideaki Someya, Makoto Saruwatari, Takuji Abe
  • Patent number: 9002527
    Abstract: A coil of an electro-pneumatic converting portion is connected in parallel with a constant voltage circuit. An electric current regulating portion is provided in a supply line for an electric current to the coil. The regulating value for the electric current in this electric current regulating portion is controlled by an instruction from a CPU. The CPU detects, as a present supply electric current, an actual value for the supply electric current from a higher-level system, and evaluates whether or not there is, in the present supply electric current, a surplus electric current that can be directed to the electro-pneumatic converting portion. The supply electric current can be in excess of 4 mA and is the surplus electric current, and if there is a surplus electric current, then a command is sent to the electric current regulating portion so as to allocate that surplus electric current to the coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Azbil Corporation
    Inventors: Kouji Okuda, Hiroaki Nagoya, Kouichirou Murata
  • Patent number: 9001516
    Abstract: Provided is an electronic circuit unit to be mounted within a casing of an automatic transmission for a vehicle. An electronic circuit body including circuit-side terminals protruding in an outward direction from a main-body, connectors to be connected to the electronic circuit body, a cover, and a base member having a placing face on which the cover, the electronic circuit body and the connectors are placed. The cover is provided with a main-body covering part, fitting-portion covering parts and which cover a fitting-portion of the circuit-side terminals and fitting parts of the wire-side terminals from a side opposing to the placing face, and a restricting part for regulating the detachment of the connectors from the fitting position to the detached position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignees: Autonetworks Technologies Ltd., Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Osamu Nakayama, Kouichi Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 8985075
    Abstract: In a valve timing control system of an internal combustion engine employing both an electric-motor-driven intake valve timing control device for changing intake valve timing and an electric-motor-driven exhaust valve timing control device for changing exhaust valve timing, the intake valve timing control device includes a less-friction roller speed reducer having a toothed gear and configured to transmit torque by repeated relocations of each of rollers rolling and relocating from one of two adjacent teeth of the toothed gear to the other. In contrast, the exhaust valve timing control device includes a planetary-gear speed reducer having a friction greater than a friction of the roller speed reducer and configured to transmit torque by meshed-engagement of toothed gears in mesh with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryo Tadokoro, Shinichi Kawada, Atsushi Yamanaka, Hiroyuki Nemoto
  • Patent number: 8985425
    Abstract: A fluid supply control device and a gas combustion type nailer including the fluid supply control device are provided. The fluid supply control device includes a gauging chamber configured to be charged with a fluid, an inlet port through which the fluid flows into the gauging chamber, an outlet port through which the fluid flows out from the gauging chamber, a first valve element arranged inside the gauging chamber to close the inlet port, a second valve element arranged inside the gauging chamber to close the outlet port, an electromagnetic biasing structure configured to electromagnetically bias the first valve element and the second valve element, and an elastic biasing structure configured to elastically bias at least one of the first valve element and the second valve element. The first valve element and the second valve element are independently movable and are actuated with a time difference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Max Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Satoshi Osuga, Yasushi Yokochi, Hisami Oguri
  • Patent number: 8985149
    Abstract: A valve device is formed with a through-channel and a field generating device. A fluid which can be influenced by a field is provided in the through-channel and the field generating device is configured to act on the field-influenced fluid in the through-channel by way of a field. At least one adjustment device is provided with which the field that is active in the through-channel can be adjusted. A portion of the cross-sectional area of the through-channel can be adjusted, the portion being exposed to a field of a specific intensity so that the through-channel can also only partly be exposed to a field of a specific intensity. Thus, the through-channel, as seen in the direction of the flow, can be divided into regions of different flow resistance, whereby characteristic curves, which were previously attained only with difficulty, are easily obtained when using the valve device in a damper, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Inventus Engineering GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Battlogg, Juergen Poesel, Gernot Elsensohn
  • Patent number: 8985547
    Abstract: A microfluidic valve assembly includes a structure defining a microfluidic fluid path and an actuator that can be moved between different positions controlling flow through the channel. In one embodiment, the actuator can be threaded into at least a portion of the structure, and can be moved rotationally between a first position, causing relatively greater constriction of a microfluidic fluid path, and a second position causing relatively lesser constriction of the fluid path. Actuating the actuator, e.g., by rotation, can deform material between the valve and the fluid path, thereby constricting at least a portion of the underlying fluid path and regulating the flow of a fluid in the fluid path. In another aspect, the invention provides a reservoir into which fluid can be placed and from which fluid can be introduced into a microfluidic system. In one embodiment, the reservoir is expandable and thereby able to store fluid under pressure for delivery to a microfluidic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: President and Fellows of Harvard College
    Inventors: Douglas B. Weibel, Andrew Lee, Scott Potenta, Adam Siegel, Maarten Kruithof, George M. Whitesides
  • Patent number: 8978688
    Abstract: In various embodiments, two or more electronic flow selectors of an electronic fluid flow control system may be used to control the flow rates of multiple fluids. In a total flow control mode, a first electronic flow selector may be used to select a total flow rate of two or more fluids. A second electronic flow selector may be used to select a flow rate or ratio of a flow rate of one fluid to the total flow rate of the two or more fluids. In a direct flow control mode, each electronic flow selector may be used to select a flow rate of a unique fluid. One of the fluids may be oxygen, and the other fluid, a balance gas, may be selected as either nitrous oxide or air using an electronic balance gas selector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Peter B. Schon, Christine M. Manfredo, Li Xinsheng, Huang Chenghua, Zhu Guanyu
  • Publication number: 20150069860
    Abstract: An electrodynamic actuator, in particular for a microvalve or a micropump, includes a magnet arrangement for generating a magnetic field and a control element movable relative to the magnet arrangement. The control element includes an energizable air-core coil (22) which is arranged in the magnetic field and firmly coupled to a coil carrier (20) made from a nonmagnetic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: Cyril REITER, Maik FUCHS, Johannes DIERKS, Raoul SCHROEDER, Ralf SCHEIBE, Christian HARTMANN
  • Publication number: 20150069278
    Abstract: A valve (210) comprising a motor (221) having an output shaft (231) orientated about a motor axis (230), a hydraulic valve having a drive spool (224) configured to move from a first position to a second position, a mechanical linkage (222) between the output shaft (231) and the drive spool (224) having a sleeve (232) mechanically coupled to the output shaft (231), a pole shaft (233) configured for sliding engagement in a direction generally perpendicular to the motor axis, a link (235) connected to the pole shaft (233) by a pivot joint (234), a drive shaft (252) coupled to the link (235) and rotatable about a drive axis, the drive shaft (252) having an end portion to engage and apply a force to the spool (224), and a spring (223) to provide a bias between the pole shaft (233) and the sleeve (232), such that a distance between the motor axis and the pivot joint multiplied by a distance between the drive axis and the applied force is less than a distance between the drive axis and the pivot joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Applicant: Moog Inc.
    Inventor: John Kopp
  • Patent number: 8973613
    Abstract: An ER fluid valve includes a housing and a plurality of parallel flow passages through the housing each defined by spaced electrodes at least one of which is controllable independently of other flow passages electrodes. A controller is configured to selectively establish electrical fields for all of the independently controllable electrodes to close all of the flow passages to ER fluid flowing through the housing. By removing the fields from all of the independently controllable electrodes, all the flow passages are open to the ER fluid flowing through the housing. By establishing fields for select independently controllable electrodes to close their associated flow passages and by leaving other flow passages open, restricted flow of the ER fluid through the housing is accomplished to vary the flow rate through the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Murphy, Robert Playter
  • Publication number: 20150060708
    Abstract: A valve having a valve body with a valve cavity that receives an axially extensible member, for example, a bellows. An adapter has a diameter that is less than the diameter of the valve cavity and greater than the diameter of the extensible member, so that the adapter is disposed between the valve body and the extensible member. The adapter forms a valve body compression seal and a compression seal for the extensible member. Use of the adapter allows a common valve body to be used with different sized bellows of different lengths and diameters as needed, as well as facilitates easy installation and replacement of the bellows.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: William H. Glime, III
  • Patent number: 8955821
    Abstract: A power supply controlling function is provided in a controlling portion. The power supply controlling function defines a first pressure sensor, a second pressure sensor, a third pressure sensor, and an oscillation detecting sensor as sensors to which power may be supplied, and turns switches that are provided in the supply circuits of the power supply to the individual sensors to which power may be supplied ON and OFF so that a plurality of these sensors to which power may be supplied does not operate simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Azbil Corporation
    Inventors: Kouji Okuda, Takashi Nomiyama
  • Publication number: 20150041691
    Abstract: A diaphragm valve has a valve housing and a valve member movable relative to said housing. The valve member includes a diaphragm carrier that can be driven to execute a switchover motion having a sealing diaphragm mounted thereon, which delimits a valve chamber in which a valve seat is found. The sealing diaphragm has a sealing section opposite said valve seat belonging at least partially to a loose diaphragm section of the sealing diaphragm, which can lift from the diaphragm carrier to reduce the stress on the sealing diaphragm when said diaphragm carrier is removed from the valve seat during switching.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Andreas Buhler
  • Patent number: 8950422
    Abstract: A valve actuating mechanism has an actuator housing and an actuator drive. A spring is connected between them so that when the actuator drive is in a lock position, the spring biases the actuator drive toward an unlock position. A locking member is movable from a first position received in a locking aperture of the actuator drive and in a hole in the actuator housing so as to hold the actuator drive relative to the housing in the locking position and to a second position in which the locking member is outside of the locking aperture so that the spring can move the actuator drive to the unlocked position. A blocking device blocks movement of the locking member but can release the locking member to allow the actuator drive to turn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: James C. McGill
  • Publication number: 20150028236
    Abstract: A valve actuator including a magnetic angle sensor is disclosed. The magnetic angle sensor may function as an absolute position encoder. The magnetic angle sensor may also function as an incremental position encoder. The magnetic angle sensor may generate angular velocity data. The magnetic angle sensor may be used in quarter-turn and single-turn rotary valve actuators. The magnetic angle sensor may also be used in multi-turn rotary and linear valve actuators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: William T. Dolenti, Byron A. Fleury
  • Publication number: 20150024377
    Abstract: The present invention, in part, relates to an apparatus having a single-use, normally-closed fluidic valve that is initially maintained in the closed position by a valve element bonded to an adhesive coating. The valve is opened using a magnetic force. The valve element includes a magnetic material or metal. In some examples, the valve is opened by bringing a magnet in proximity to the valve element to provide a magnetic force that delaminates the valve element from the adhesive coating. In particular, the apparatus can be useful for on-chip amplification and/or detection of various targets, including biological targets and any amplifiable targets. Such apparatuses and methods are useful for in-field or real-time detection of targets, especially in limited resource settings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Thayne L. Edwards, Jason C. Harper
  • Publication number: 20150016995
    Abstract: This application is directed to a fragrance dispenser attachably connected to a fan comprising: a housing having openings defined in the housing; a fragrance reservoir included in the housing for receiving a fragrance medium containing a fragrance; a cover operably associated with the opening for restricting airflow into the fragrance reservoir; and, a cover actuator operably connected to the cover having an open position allowing airflow into and out of the fragrance reservoir for dispensing a fragrance and a closed position for restricting airflow into and out of the fragrance reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Nathan A. Scolari
  • Publication number: 20150013786
    Abstract: Embodiments of a valve positioner that can maintain operation of the control valve despite failures in one or more components. These embodiments reduce downtime by allowing in-situ repair to occur on the valve positioner. In one embodiment, the valve positioner incorporates a by-pass component, which can utilize control input signals (e.g., a 4-20 mA signal) to energize one or more components (e.g., a current-to-pressure converter) to cause the control valve to modulate fluid flow without the digital microprocessor and/or related components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: Dresser Inc.
    Inventor: Sandro Esposito
  • Patent number: 8931756
    Abstract: An electric actuator has a switch, a setting unit and a resetting unit. The switch is provided in a supply path of electric power from an electricity storing body to a motor. The switch opens and closes the supply path. The setting unit is operated through receiving a supply of electric power from the electricity storing body in response to an instruction from an operator. The setting unit opens the switch provided in the supply path for electric power from the electricity storing body to the motor. The resetting unit is operated through receiving a supply of electric power from an external power supply when the external power supply has been restored from being cut off. The resetting unit closes the switching unit provided in the supply path of electric power from the electricity storing body to the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Azbil Corporation
    Inventors: Hideaki Someya, Makoto Saruwatari, Takuji Abe
  • Patent number: 8931757
    Abstract: An electric actuator has a motor, an electricity storing body, a switch, a setting unit, a resetting unit and a setting-off unit. The switch is provided in a supply path for electric power from the electricity storing body to the motor. The switch opens and closes the supply path. The setting unit is operated through receiving a supply of electric power from the electricity storing body in response to an instruction from an operator. The setting unit opens the switch. The resetting unit is operated through r a supply of electric power from the external power supply when the external power supply has been restored from being cut off. The resetting unit closes the switch that is provided in the supply path. The setting-off unit sets off the supply of electric power from the external power supply to the resetting unit after a specific delay time has elapsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Azbil Corporation
    Inventors: Hideaki Someya, Makoto Saruwatari, Takuji Abe
  • Patent number: 8924028
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes, among other things, a method. The method may include receiving an instruction to actuate a valve. The method may also include receiving a first period of time. The method may also include applying energy to the valve for the first period of time. The method may also include comparing a first state of the valve with a state in the instruction. The method may also include determining a second period of time by increasing the first period of time. The method may also include applying energy to the valve for the second period of time. The method may also include determining that a second state of the valve matches the state in the instruction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Control Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul C. Neilson, Paraj Jivan Kayande
  • Patent number: 8920645
    Abstract: Described is a disposable valve that includes an actuation layer operationally linked to a flexible diaphragm; a valving layer operationally linked to the flexible diaphragm; and a connection layer operationally connected to the valving layer; wherein the valving layer and the connection layer have a corresponding plurality of channels passing therethrough, and the channels define at least one fluid flow path, and the flexible diaphragm is movable between a first open position wherein fluid can flow through the fluid flow path, and a second closed position wherein fluid cannot flow through the fluid flow path. Chromatographic systems incorporating a plurality of such valves, optionally integrated into a unitary valve block, are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Tarpon Biosystems Inc.
    Inventors: Michael G. Moran, Scott P. Fulton
  • Publication number: 20140374632
    Abstract: A thermocouple connector adapted to an electromagnetic valve, the electromagnetic valve having a quick-connect terminal with a base. The connector has an inner surface that faces the base when the connector is inserted transversally to the connection terminal. The connector includes guiding means that projects out in relation to the inner surface, extending longitudinally in the direction of insertion, adapted to guide the transverse insertion of the connector. The connector is configured to come into contact with the base through the guiding means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Applicant: ORKLI, S.COOP.
    Inventors: Marcos Pablo Curto, Mikel Zuriarrain Berasategi
  • Patent number: 8896424
    Abstract: A dosing system and a method for dosing a medium, having a dosing control unit (4), at least one exchangeable container (2) containing a medium to be dosed, and a dosing valve (3, 3?) that can be connected to the container (2), wherein at least one part of the dosing valve (3, 3?) that comes into contact with the medium is designed as an exchangeable system component (7, 10) and has a machine-readable code for identification purposes, wherein at least one container (2), as an exchangeable system component (2), has a machine-readable code for identification purposes, wherein the exchangeable parts (2, 7, 10, 19) that come into contact with the medium are designed as disposable parts, and wherein the dosing control unit (4) is connected with a communication unit (5) to read the codes, and wherein the communication unit (5) has a unique read connection (22) to each exchangeable system component (2, 7, 10, 19) or its code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignees: Sartorius Lab Instruments GmbH & KG, Sartorius Stedim Biotech GmbH
    Inventors: Oscar-Werner Reif, Reinhard Baumfalk, Dieter Schmidt, Christian Oldendorf, Swen Weitemeier
  • Publication number: 20140339449
    Abstract: A valve assembly for an injection valve may include a valve body including a central longitudinal axis, the valve body having a cavity with a fluid inlet portion and a fluid outlet portion, and a chamber, with an electro-magnetic actuator unit arranged in the chamber, and a valve needle axially movable in the cavity, the valve needle preventing a fluid flow through the fluid outlet portion in a closing position and releasing the fluid flow through the fluid outlet portion in further positions. The valve needle is designed to be actuated by the electro-magnetic actuator unit. A bellows arranged between the valve body and the valve needle is sealingly coupled to the valve body and to the valve needle. The bellows prevents a fluid flow between the cavity and the chamber. An injection valve comprising such a valve assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Applicant: CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE GMBH
    Inventor: Licia Del Frate