Electrically Actuated Valve Patents (Class 251/129.01)
  • Publication number: 20130146314
    Abstract: A valve actuation mechanism has a plurality of links. Each link has a proximal end and distal end, and the links are disposed adjacent a valve member. The actuation mechanism also has at least one roller connected to the distal ends of at least two links. The roller contacts a surface of the valve member. In addition, at least one pivot for each link is present in the valve, wherein each pivot is positioned on the proximal end of each of the plurality of links.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: KIDDE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Doug John Baxendell, Rusty Rose, Daniel Ray MacLachlan
  • Publication number: 20130140477
    Abstract: An electric actuator includes a direct current (DC) motor, a deceleration mechanism having an input gear, an intermediate gear, an output gear, and an output shaft, and a return mechanism. The return mechanism includes a first resilient member and a second resilient member. The first resilient member is configured to apply resilient force, which urges a movable body in a direction to return the movable body from its displacement position to initial position, to the output shaft or the output gear. The second resilient member is configured to apply resilient force, which urges the movable body in the direction to return the movable body from its displacement position to initial position, to a motor shaft, the input gear, or the intermediate gear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: DENSO CORPORATION
  • Publication number: 20130139889
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to an attachment mechanism adapted to be attached to fluid system having a hydroelectric generator adapted to convert a flow of a fluid through the fluid system into electrical power. The attachment mechanism further includes a control unit coupled to the hydroelectric generator, capacitor to store the electrical power generated by the hydroelectric generator, and a motor coupled to the control unit. In addition, the attachment system includes a pinch valve coupled to the motor, such that the control unit is adapted to automatically control the motor for actuating the pinch valve for regulating the fluid flow within the fluid system. The attachment mechanism further includes sensor unit to detect the condition in vicinity to the attachment mechanism. As further disclosed herein, the control unit is powered by the flow of the fluid through the fluid system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Inventor: Livne Manes Gan
  • Publication number: 20130134333
    Abstract: Failsafe apparatus for use with linear actuators are disclosed. A failsafe apparatus for use with a linear actuator includes a spring to urge a first stem of a device to be operated by the linear actuator toward a failsafe position and a clutch to operatively couple a second stem of the linear actuator to the first stem. The clutch includes a frame coupled to one of the first stem or the second stem and jaws moveably coupled to the frame. The jaws are to engage the other one of the first stem or the second stem to enable the linear actuator to operate the device and to disengage the other one of the first stem or the second stem to enable the spring to move the first stem toward the failsafe position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: Ross Arthur Schade
  • Publication number: 20130134335
    Abstract: A method for controlling a valve including a spring, an actuator having an actuator force opposing the spring, and a pin actuatable by the actuator. To open the valve, in a first operating mode a current having a predefined curve is applied to the actuator, starting from a starting value of the current at which the pin is positioned to allow the valve to close, measured values of the current are determined chronologically sequentially, a reference value of the current takes on the current measured value of the current when the measured current deviates from the applied current by a predefined degree. In a second operating mode, a current having a predefined curve is applied to the actuator, starting with the starting value of the current to a final value of the current at which the pin is in a position that prevents the valve from closing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Michael Wirkowski, Rainer Weber
  • Publication number: 20130134334
    Abstract: The valve actuator (1) includes a housing (2), a motor (4) coupled to the valve, wherein rotation of the motor (4) changes the position of the valve from a first position in which fluid flow may occur along at least one path and a second position in which fluid flow is either blocked or may occur along at least one second path, said motor (4) being normally supplied with electrical power from a main source of electrical power, at least one sensor (24,132) configured to detect the position of the valve and/or the valve speed, a switch (16) controlling the delivery of electrical power to the motor (4), and a power circuitry (19) connected to the switch (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: INTERTECHNIQUE
    Inventors: Frederic Denat, Mourad Rezig
  • Publication number: 20130105326
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a control valve assembly and method of fault detection that includes adjusting a valve between an operating position and a fault position in response to various fault conditions. The control valve assembly is adjustable to accommodate fault conditions encountered in a variety of electrochemical deionization systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventors: David J. Averbeck, George Shoemaker Ellis
  • Publication number: 20130104999
    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: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventor: James C. MCGILL
  • Publication number: 20130104998
    Abstract: An electromagnetic valve for a pressure container and which includes a manual shut-off of the valve, a stop, and an electromagnetic shut-off of the valve with a sealing element, a magnet coil, a tappet, and a spring element. When the magnet coil has been currentlessly switched and deactivated, the tappet pressed against the sealing element by the spring element presses the sealing element onto a second opening so as to suppress a fluidic connection from the pressure container. Also, when the magnet coil is activated, the tappet can be moved away from the sealing element as far as the stop, such that the fluidic connection can be released.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: MAGNA STEYR FAHRZEUGTECHNIK AG & CO. KG
    Inventor: Andreas Zieger
  • Patent number: 8430346
    Abstract: A compressed air throttle apparatus has at least one throttle valve adjusted by an electric motor, and an electric circuit fitted with contacting elements to alternatively interrupt and close the electric circuit in relation to the throttle valve settings. This throttle apparatus preferably is applicable to a compressed air path of powder spraycoating equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: Hanspeter Michael
  • Patent number: 8430127
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electrohydraulic control module capable of being reduced in the number of components. A control valve 6 includes a concave portion 51 that serves as an oil pathway. An electronic control device 4 controls a solenoid 33 and the like. An electrical interconnect plate 2 includes an interconnect member 21 such as a bus bar. A separate plate 5 is disposed between the interconnect plate 2 and the control valve 6. The interconnect plate 2 also includes a concave portion 24 at its surface side that abuts the separate plate 5, the concave portion 24 being formed at a position corresponding to a concave portion 63 of the control valve 6. The separate plate 5 includes a communication portion 51 that communicates between the concave portion 63 of the control valve 6 and the concave portion 24 of the interconnect plate 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshikazu Shigyo, Yasunori Odakura, Itaru Tanabe
  • Patent number: 8430123
    Abstract: An exemplary position regulator is disclosed which includes a regulation unit and a travel measurement system for activating an actuating drive for adjusting a control fitting to a predetermined position. A signal shaper is provided for outputting a travel signal to a superordinate device. To provide an undisturbed output of the travel signal, the signal shaper is connected in series in a transmission path between the travel measurement system and the regulation unit, and is connected in parallel with the regulation unit so as to transmit signals. The signal shaper can have a switch which is controlled by an alarm signal of the regulation unit, by which, in a first (e.g., inoperative) position, the travel measurement system is fed from the regulation unit, and, in a second (e.g., operative) position, the travel measurement system is fed from the signal shaper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: ABB Technology AG
    Inventor: Thomas Kleegrewe
  • Publication number: 20130098071
    Abstract: An HVAC system includes an electronic expansion valve, a motor, an obturator connected to the motor, the obturator being selectively movable in response to operation of the motor, a removable seat selectively received within a complementary portion of the electronic expansion valve, the removable seat being selectively movable in response to operation of the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: TRANE INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventor: Stuart Means
  • Publication number: 20130099145
    Abstract: A solenoid valve is proposed, having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape orthogonally in relation to an effective axis of the solenoid valve, it being possible for valve devices of the solenoid valve to be connected to one another by means of joining operations directed substantially in the direction of the effective axis, the valve devices having such peripheral shapes that the valve devices can be centered with respect to one another by means of the joining operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventor: Robert Bosch GmbH
  • Publication number: 20130092854
    Abstract: A variable impedance circuit is provided as an active load between an input line L1 and an output line L2. This circuit has low impedance with respect to a DC electric current signal and has high impedance with respect to an AC electric current signal, structured from a series circuit of resistors R1, R2, and R3 connected between lines L1 and L2; a transistor Q1 having the collector connected to the line L1 and the base connected between the resistors R2 and R3; a resistor R4 connected between the emitter of the transistor Q1 and the line L2; a capacitor C1 with one end connected between the resistors R2 and R3; a resistor R5 connected between the other end of the capacitor C1 and the line L2; a capacitor C2 having one end connected between the resistors R1 and R2; and a resistor R6 connected between the other end of the capacitor C2 and the line L2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: AZBIL CORPORATION
    Inventor: AZBIL CORPORATION
  • Publication number: 20130092853
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods of repairing a sprinkler system with faulty wiring between the controller and a one or more of the valves, and associated repaired systems. The method includes identifying the faulty electrically conductive line having electrical discontinuity between the controller and a corresponding first valve, and identifying a non-faulty electrically conductive line having electrical continuity between a controller and corresponding second valve. Control over the first valve is achieved by sharing the non-faulty electrically conductive line between the second valve and the first valve. Forked wiring segments are inserted on both the controller end and the valve end of the non-faulty line. Each inserted wire segment includes a diode to permit current to flow in only one direction allowing both valves to be controlled through only a single shared “hot” line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventor: Matthew J. Redd
  • Patent number: 8423313
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for testing a valve control system in an aircraft fuel supply system having a plurality of control valves, wherein the control system includes relay means for outputting control signals to each of the plurality of control valves. The method includes providing connection means for electrically connecting a test device to the control system relay means, connecting a test device to the relay means such that the test device is adapted to receive control signals output by the control system to any one of the plurality of control valves, detecting an electrical control signal output from the relay means to any one of the plurality of control valves, and identifying the particular one of the plurality of control valves to which a detected control signal is output by the relay means and identifying the nature of the control signal output to that particular control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventor: Jürgen Lohmann
  • Publication number: 20130087726
    Abstract: An electromagnetically operated switching device comprises an armature (82,102) having a magnetisable and moveable portion (82b,102b) for displacement between two stable rest positions. Two pole pieces (60,62) are disposed on opposite sides of the armature. The pole pieces form poles of opposing polarity adjacent to the armature, and the armature is magnetically attracted to a respective pole piece in each of its stable rest positions. A coil (54) is arranged to polarise the moveable portion of the armature when the coil is energised, such that the moveable portion of the armature is displaced from one stable rest position to the other by energising the coil so as to polarise the portion to the opposite polarity to the adjacent pole piece. Each pole piece (60,62) comprises a permanent magnet (68,70) with the permanent magnets disposed on opposite sides of the moveable portion (82b,102b) of the armature (82,102). The device may be configured to control the flow of fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: CAMCON OIL LIMITED
    Inventor: Wladyslaw Wygnanski
  • Publication number: 20130087725
    Abstract: An electromagnetic valve. A body includes a valve chest disposed between an inlet and an outlet. A valve seat is opened and closed by a movable core. A lock ring is fitted into the inlet. A finishing member closes the outer end of the inlet, and in cooperation with the stator, forcibly fixes the lock ring and guides the tube to be inserted. A chamber is defined by an extension of the finishing member in the direction away from the inlet. A latch element adjacent to the lock ring limits the deformation of the lock ring in response to changes in the pressure of water. A support element protrudes from the outer circumference of the tube to support the rear end of the latch element. The locking ring is prevented from being deformed, so that the coupling of the tube becomes more structurally stable and secure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventor: Gwan Ho RO
  • Patent number: 8413638
    Abstract: A method is provided for operating a directly actuated valve that comprises a strain-type actuator to actuate a valve member to travel between a closed position and an open position, the method comprising transmitting displacements from the strain-type actuator to the valve member, maintaining a compressive stress on the actuator that is greater than a predetermined minimum stress by applying a pre-load compressive stress and limiting to less than predetermined limits at least one of: (a) acceleration and deceleration of the valve member when moving between open positions and the closed position; and (b) velocity of said valve member immediately before contacting the valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Westport Power Inc.
    Inventors: David Mumford, Alan Welch, Alain Touchette, Mike Hebbes, Richard Wing
  • Publication number: 20130081707
    Abstract: A gas shutoff device of the present invention is configured such that a control section determines that it inhibits a shutoff section from being returned from a shutoff state to a supply state, when a vibration has been detected by a vibration detecting section and a fluid pressure measured by a pressure measuring section has decreased to a value equal to or less than a predetermined pressure value. For example, the control section causes the shutoff section to switch to the shutoff state and disenables the return section to return the shutoff section to the supply state, when one of the vibration and the fluid pressure decrease has been detected and then the other has been detected within a predetermined time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takanori Kamimura, Mitsuo Yokohata
  • Publication number: 20130075634
    Abstract: An electromagnetic valve having a flow control function. A valve body has an inlet, an outlet, a valve chest, and a valve plate contained inside the valve chest. The valve plate opens and closes a valve seat using a movable core in order to control the flow rate of water and to prevent backflow. A first channel is disposed inside the outlet. A flow control means, configured as a single unit, is inserted into the outlet, and includes a mover for opening and closing a flow of water by being detached from and brought into contact with the first channel, a stator disposed coaxially with the mover. The stator allows the mover to be elastic and freely movable using a restoring element. A flow rate control element is supported on the stator, and has a predetermined interval from the stator to form a second channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventor: Gwan Ho Ro
  • Publication number: 20130074732
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an in-line mixer for mixing a plurality of fluids to produce a mixed product. The mixer includes one or more mixing chambers, an impeller in each of the mixing chambers, one or more inlets coupled to injection valves for conveying the fluids into the mixing chamber, and an outlet for conveying the mixed product out of the mixing chamber. The in-line mixer is well suited to components, such as those used in making automotive OEM and refinish paints.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: E I DU PONT DE NEMOURS AND COMPANY
    Inventor: Antonio RETAMAL
  • Publication number: 20130075635
    Abstract: The present invention provides a new type flow control system comprising a valve control circuit and a power source circuit. Two terminals of the primary coil of the power source circuit transformer are respectively connected with two power source circuit FETs, the secondary coil of the power source circuit transformer is connected to the voltage output terminal of the power source circuit through a power source rectification circuit. The gates of the power source circuit FETs are connected with a switching regulator. The AC input terminal of the valve control circuit is connected with a valve control circuit transformer. The primary coil of the valve control circuit transformer is connected with a valve control circuit FET, the secondary coil of the transformer is connected to a mechanical valve through a valve control rectification circuit. A microcontroller outputs PWM signals to the gate of the valve control circuit FET.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventors: Changhua Mou, Maolin Wang
  • Patent number: 8403292
    Abstract: Provided is a microvalve having a magnetic wax plug which includes a micro fluidic structure having an inlet portion and an outlet portion, a magnetic wax plug provided at a predetermined 5 section where the inlet portion and the outlet portion meet, existing in a solid state, melted at a temperature higher than a predetermined temperature, and reversibly moving along a magnetic field, so as to control flux of a fluid through the micro fluidic structure, a heating portion provided corresponding to the section and heating the magnetic wax plug to be melted, and a magnetic field 10 application portion selectively applying a magnetic field to a position where the melted magnetic wax plug arrives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kwang-wook Oh, Kak Namkoong, Chin-sung Park
  • Publication number: 20130068972
    Abstract: An air shutoff valve includes a passage for supplying air, a swing gate, a shaft attached to a reset handle, and a spring to urge the gate toward its closed position. A trigger assembly secures the shaft and gate in the open position and includes an actuator, a cam, and a rocker arm. A cam surface of the arm has a notch to receive a sear point of the cam. Movement of the handle against the spring causes the cam contact surface of the cam to follow the cam surface to cause the arm to rotate such that the sear point is received in the notch. Actuating the actuator causes the arm to pivot away from the cam such that the sear point is released from the notch, wherein the spring causes the shaft to move the gate to its closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: AMOT CONTROLS CORP.
    Inventors: Kamyar Molavi, Ken McClymonds
  • Publication number: 20130068200
    Abstract: An injector comprising one or more piezoelectric driving stacks wherein a flow control member of the injector is driven directly by the one or more piezoelectric stacks without additional amplification means or interposing elements while a flow area of the nozzle is variably adjustable to deliver controlled flow rates in a desired flow profile to improve engine performance and reduce emissions. The injector is configured to support required flow rates with minimal linear movement of the flow control member. The injector and drive electronics are configured to deliver higher frequency operation and response with increased operational stability due to minimal response lag.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventors: Paul Reynolds, Robert Andrew Banks
  • Publication number: 20130068975
    Abstract: A stator is provided with a ring-shaped outer stator-projection and a ring-shaped inner stator-projection. A plunger is provided with a ring-shaped outer plunger -projection and a ring-shaped inner plunger-projection. A magnetic force is generated at three portions between the plunger and the stator. The inner stator-projection has a first tapered surface and the outer plunger-projection has a second tapered surface. The first tapered surface and the second tapered surface confront each other when the plunger moves toward the stator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jiro KONDO, Yoshiyuki MURAO, Koichiro MATSUMOTO
  • Publication number: 20130062542
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a high-reliability, cost-effective electro-hydraulic servo-valve assembly that is not susceptible to failure caused by contaminated fluid. In particular embodiments, the electro-hydraulic servo-valve assembly includes a rotary valve that may be actuated by either a direct-coupled Limited Angle Torque (LAT) motor, a geared, brushless DC motor, or some other rotary electric actuating element with an integrated driver circuit. In particular embodiments, the rotary valve element made up of an outer sleeve element and an inner spool element, with matching ports and slots, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: WOODWARD, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin E. Greeb, Philip A. LaFleur, Jonathan P. Workman, John J. Been
  • Publication number: 20130056658
    Abstract: An electrically operated valve actuator effective for shifting a valve (10) between open and closed positions is disclosed, the valve actuator comprising a movable member in the form of a valve stem (21) connected to a valve body (14), the movable member being driven by an electric motor (22) in linear motion between valve closing and valve opening positions, wherein electrical power to the motor is supplied via a current (25) control including a supplied current detection device. The movable member is designed for an idling length of travel (L) in the opening and closing directions during which the valve (10) is either fully open or fully closed, and the movable member is associated with buffer means (30) that during the idling length of travel gradually increases the torque and power required to move the movable member further in the open and closed positions of the valve (10), respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2010
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: Vetco Gray Scandinavia AS
    Inventors: Christian Borchgrevink, Paula Guimaraes, Christopher Flidh
  • Publication number: 20130056659
    Abstract: An electromechanically actuated, hydraulic control valve with a double slide arranged in a valve housing which is in fluid communication with at least three hydraulic-fluid ports wherein a first and a second axially movable valve slide are, independently of each other, arranged to sealingly abut corresponding portions of a double valve seat, each valve slide is provided with a slide nut which is in engagement with an external threaded portion on the valve slide and is connected via transmission means to an actuator, and to each valve slide, a position sensor is connected, arranged to indicate a rotational motion of the slide nut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventor: Egil Eriksen
  • Publication number: 20130048890
    Abstract: A fluid control electromagnetic valve includes a fixed core, a movable valving element, a resin body, a valve seat member, a first sealing member, and a second sealing member. The valve seat member is formed from a material having a smaller linear expansion coefficient than the resin body. The first sealing member is accommodated in the resin body in an elastic compression state to seal a fluid passage and is positioned around the fixed core. The second sealing member is accommodated in the resin body in an elastic compression state to seal the fluid passage. The valve seat member is clamped between the second sealing member and the first sealing member in an axial direction. Elastic restoring force applied by the second sealing member to the valve seat member is larger than elastic restoring force applied by the first sealing member to the valve seat member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yuichiro MIURA
  • Patent number: 8376317
    Abstract: A microfluidic purge valve in a microfluidics system includes a notch defined in the valve seat of a microfluidic valve. The notch is sized so that gas entrained within a liquid pumped through the microfluidics system can pass freely therethrough but the liquid cannot. The notch is sized so that the resistant force generated by the surface tension of the liquid is equal to or greater than the force generated by the fluid pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Purdue Research Foundation
    Inventors: Han-Sheng Chuang, Steven T. Wereley
  • Publication number: 20130037731
    Abstract: A refrigerator includes an electric valve that can be transferred into a closed state in response to a closing signal. In order to increase the tightness of the electric valve, the refrigerator includes a valve driver unit which is designed to subject the electric valve in the closed state to a sequence of closing signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: BSH BOSCH UND SIEMENS HAUSGERATE GMBH
    Inventor: Athanasios Athanasiou
  • Publication number: 20130032738
    Abstract: In a fuel injection system of an internal combustion engine, fuel is delivered from a high-pressure pump into a fuel rail. The quantity of the delivered fuel is influenced by a quantity control valve which is activated by an electromagnetic actuating device. The level of control of the quantity control valve during the transition from the closed state to the open state of the quantity control valve is provided in the form of a sufficiently flat, descending progression which allows a robust control of the opening motion with regard to the varying specimen properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventors: Rainer Wilms, Matthias Schumacher, Joerg Kuempel, Matthias Maess
  • Publication number: 20130032737
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes, among other things, a method. The method may include receiving, by a wireless communication device, an instruction to actuate a valve. The method may also include receiving a period of time. The method may also include applying energy from a battery to the valve for the period of time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventors: Paul C. Neilson, Paraj Jivan Kayande
  • Publication number: 20130032739
    Abstract: A method of assuring drop out of a valve assembly comprising detecting a level of a signal from the controller; diverting the signal to a solenoid coil of the valve assembly when the level of the signal is above a predetermined value; and diverting the signal to a load when the level of the signal is below the predetermined value. The level detector may divert the signal away from the coil when the level of the signal is below the predetermined value, thereby ensuring that the coil is fully de-energized in response to the level of the signal being below the predetermined value, while allowing current to flow through the valve assembly, thereby allowing the controller to monitor the integrity of the wiring between the controller and the valve assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: AUTOMATIC SWITCH COMPANY
    Inventor: John J. HALLER
  • Publication number: 20130032216
    Abstract: An electronic faucet (10) comprises a spout (12) having a passageway configured to conduct fluid flow through the spout, an electrically operable valve coupled to the passageway, and a single capacitive sensor (26) coupled to a portion of the faucet. The single capacitive sensor provides both a touch sensor and a proximity sensor for the electronic faucet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Joel D. Sawaski, Michael J. Veros
  • Patent number: 8366602
    Abstract: A system for facilitating obesity control includes an inflatable gastric banding device, a fluid reservoir couplable to the inflatable portion, and an implantable fluid handling device including one or more piezoelectric valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Allergan, Inc.
    Inventors: Janel A. Birk, Sean Snow
  • Publication number: 20130026400
    Abstract: A remote spray nozzle actuating device for spray cans has a spray can holder assembly for holding a spray can, the further including a wireless activator assembly; and a wireless transmitter for remotely activating the wireless activator assembly causing the spray nozzle to be actuated. The spray can holder assembly further has a trigger. The trigger is connected to the wireless activator assembly wherein movement of the trigger actuates a spray nozzle. The wireless activator assembly has a wireless receiver; a power supply; a control circuit; and an actuator. The actuator is connected to the control circuit and wherein upon activating the wireless transmitter a signal is received in the receiver and transmitted to the control circuit to activate the actuator causing the trigger to move activating the nozzle of the held spray can.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Inventor: Arthur L. Allen, JR.
  • Patent number: 8360392
    Abstract: A valve control device, in particular for control pods or similar equipment used in the mining and/or production of mineral oil/natural gas, comprises a valve housing in which hole or boring sections are arranged, and a valve slide movable relative to the hole sections, with at least a first and a second flow hole for the alternative connection of a feed line from a fluid pressure hose with at least one actuator or of the actuator to return line for leading the fluid away, wherein in each case one of the connections is made and the other is interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Klaus Biester, Peter Kunow
  • Publication number: 20130009081
    Abstract: A solenoid valve includes an armature which is arranged in the region of at least one magnetic coil. At least one radial recess extending essentially in the radial direction, traversing at least in parts the front surface of the armature is provided. A driver assistance device including said type of solenoid valve is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Karl, Stephan Steingass, Elmar Vier
  • Patent number: 8347967
    Abstract: An embodiment of a method for limiting the probability of failure on demand of a subsea test tree (“SSTT”) includes the steps of providing a safety shut-in system for actuating a safety valve of the SSTT, the safety shut-in system including a surface control station positioned above a water surface connected via an umbilical to a subsea control system positioned below the water surface to actuate the safety valve; and diagnostically testing the safety shut-in system without actuating the safety valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Sclumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: David J. Mathis
  • Publication number: 20130000759
    Abstract: A fluid pumping device includes a piezoelectric actuator externally coupled to a microfluidic device. The piezoelectric actuator has an axial displacement along a lengthwise axis responsive to application of a bias voltage. The axial displacement of the piezoelectric actuator operates one of an internal valve and an internal pump chamber of the microfluidic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin P. Killeen, Reid A. Brennen, Dustin Chang, Storrs T. Hoen
  • Publication number: 20130001448
    Abstract: Processes for controlling the operation of switch condensers are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: EXXONMOBIL CHEMICAL PATENTS INC.
    Inventors: Nicolaas A De Munck, George F.H. Grootens
  • Publication number: 20130000502
    Abstract: An electromagnetic valve (100) for controlling flow of a pressurized liquid, comprises a plunger (110), which is able to move from a closed, downstream position, in which an end of the plunger (110) contacts a valve seat (120), to an open upstream position, in which the plunger (110) does not contact the valve seat (120). Hence an opening is left open for fluid flow, wherein the movement of the plunger to the open position is controlled by energizing a first coil (140). A second coil (130) arranged to pull the plunger (110) towards the closed position upon energizing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicants: FLOCONTROL S.R.L., BALDWIN JIMEK AB
    Inventors: Birger Hansson, Michael Ridell, Giorgio Sirianni, Jacob Van Der Meijden
  • Publication number: 20130004339
    Abstract: The invention relates to a pressure control device (7, 8, 9, 18, 22, 23, 24, 57, 58, 60, 70, 71, 80, 81, 82, 90) for a vehicle (100), wherein the vehicle (100) comprises at least one drive motor (101) for producing a driving force of the vehicle, a compressed-air supply and storage system (12), and an air compressor (1) that is or can be coupled to the drive motor (101) of the vehicle, and the pressure control device (7, 8, 9, 18, 22, 23, 24, 57, 58, 60, 70, 71, 80, 81, 82, 90) comprises at least one electronic control unit (18) and at least one valve device (7, 8, 9, 23, 24, 57, 58, 60, 70, 71, 80, 81, 82, 90) for controllably connecting a compression chamber (4) of the air compressor (1) to the compressed-air supply and storage system (12), wherein the pressure control device has the following characteristics: a) the pressure control device (7, 8, 9, 18, 22, 23, 24, 57, 58, 60, 70, 71, 80, 81, 82, 90) is designed to connect the compression chamber (4) to the compressed-air supply and storage system (12) in
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Stephan Eisfelder, Ingo Stumberg, Christian Wiehen, Christoph Wilken
  • Publication number: 20120326063
    Abstract: A water control ceramic valve with a lower ceramic chip having limitation functions includes a shell, pedestal, lower ceramic chip, upper ceramic chip, control panel, bearing and brake rod. The lower ceramic chip is assembled directionally over the pedestal, and sealed by the water-stop ring. The top end of the lower ceramic chip is provided with a flat surface. Two water channels and a discharge guide hole are set on the lower ceramic chip correspondingly to two water inlets and a water outlet of the pedestal. A lower ceramic chip spacing ring is positioned securely between the bottom opening of the shell and the pedestal. The spacing ring has a ring wall and limiting flanges protruded from the inner side of the ring wall. The ring wall can be interfaced with the bottom opening of the shell and top surface of the pedestal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: KUCHING INTERNATIONAL LTD.
    Inventor: Mei-Li CHEN
  • Patent number: 8339225
    Abstract: An electromagnetic actuating device (1) having a housing (2) and two actuator pins (3, 4) that are supported in the housing so as to be movable independently of each other between a retracted rest position and an extended working position, and locking pins (7, 8) that hold the actuator pins in the rest position via locking mechanisms and that can be moved relative to the actuator pins in the movement direction of the actuator pins. A force is applied to the locking pins in the extension direction by further spring elements (15), and the locking pins are moved in the retraction direction by electromagnetic force application in order to unlock the locking mechanisms. The actuating device is an electromagnet (22) associated with the locking pins in common and having a reversible direction of the magnetic field, and the end sections (19) of the locking pins facing away from the actuator pins are provided with bipolar permanent magnets (20, 21) that are oriented with opposite polarities in the movement direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG
    Inventor: Andreas Nendel
  • Publication number: 20120318364
    Abstract: A fluid delivery device including an electronic faucet having a plurality of faucet components, and a primary capacitive sensor coupled to at least one of the faucet components and providing a primary output signal. At least one secondary capacitive sensor is located on or near an item which causes unintended effects on the output signal from the primary capacitive sensor and provides a secondary output signal. A controller determines a difference signal between the primary and secondary output signals of the primary and secondary capacitive sensors to control operation of the electronic faucet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Joel D. Sawaski, Adam M. Devries, Robert W. Rodenbeck