Remote Or Follow-up Control System For Electrical Actuator Patents (Class 251/129.04)
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Patent number: 8925896Abstract: A positioner includes a modeling portion that, having input/output characteristics that model an electropneumatic converter, inputs a control signal from a control calculating portion to calculate an estimated value for an input air pressure that is inputted from the electropneumatic converter into a pilot relay, and a shift magnitude calculating portion that calculates a shift magnitude from the equilibrium state of the pilot relay, from the estimated value for the input air pressure, which is calculated by the modeling portion, and the output air pressure that is outputted from the pilot relay. The control calculating portion determines the control signal from an actual opening signal, an opening setting signal, and the shift magnitude from the equilibrium state of the pilot relay, and outputs it to the electropneumatic converter.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2013Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: Azbil CorporationInventors: Takashi Nomiyama, Masaki Namikawa
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Publication number: 20150001427Abstract: An electro-pneumatic device includes a sensor portion and a valve portion. The sensor portion, which includes a sensor, receives and transmits electronic control signals of a plurality of frequencies. The sensor portion is powered by a first of the frequencies of the received control signals. The valve portion electrically communicates with the sensor. The valve portion includes a valve that is alternately set to an open state and a closed state based on a second of the plurality of frequencies of the received control signals. The sensor senses a delivery pressure of the valve and transmits electronic data signals representing the delivery pressure at a third of the plurality of frequencies.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2014Publication date: January 1, 2015Inventor: Daniel P. Zula
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Patent number: 8905371Abstract: A valve signature diagnosis and leak testing device includes a spool valve operatively connected to a pilot valve, the pilot valve being configured to position the spool valve to one of an open position and a closed position. A blocker valve is fluidly connected to a control fluid outlet of the spool valve. An electrical module is operatively connected to the pilot valve, a supply of control fluid, and the blocker valve, the electrical module being capable of sending pulsed electrical signals to the pilot valve and the blocker valve to selectively position the spool valve and the blocker valve to an open or closed position.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2011Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: General Equipment and Manufacturing Company, Inc.Inventors: Bruce R. Penning, Jingli Li, Bruce Rigsby, Robert Lynn LaFountain
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Publication number: 20140345726Abstract: The invention includes an assembly for remotely controlling fluid flow between a fluid source, such as a water source, and an outlet that includes at least one electrically operable valve, such as an electromagnetically-actuatable valve, to be interposed between the fluid source and the outlet, the valve being actuatable between an open position, in which the source and the outlet are fluidly connected, and a closed position in which the source and the outlet are not fluidly connected; at least one actuator, such as a solenoid actuator, operably connected to the at least one valve for actuating the valve between the open and closed positions; a controller comprising a receiver for receiving a wireless signal, wherein the controller is operably connected to the actuator and capable of actuating the actuator upon receipt of a wireless signal by the receiver; and an activator device comprising (i) a user-activatable sensor for detecting a stimulus when the stimulus enters a detection zone and (ii) a transmitterType: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2014Publication date: November 27, 2014Applicant: AS IP Holdco, LLCInventors: Frank Seggio, Walter Pitsch
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Patent number: 8896424Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 5, 2009Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignees: Sartorius Lab Instruments GmbH & KG, Sartorius Stedim Biotech GmbHInventors: Oscar-Werner Reif, Reinhard Baumfalk, Dieter Schmidt, Christian Oldendorf, Swen Weitemeier
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Patent number: 8887323Abstract: An apparatus for electrically triggering water discharge is connected to an operating plate (1) and a sensor (31) that is arranged in a rearwards region. The operating plate (1) is transparent or translucent for human visible and infrared light wavelengths and provides at least one indication surface region (42, 43). The indication surface region has a partially transmissive coating (22, 23), behind which are one or more light sources (10, 11) emitting light that is visible to the human eye. At least one signal-transmitter surface region (21) is provided with a coating that is non-transmissive for light that is visible to the human eye and is transparent or translucent for infrared wavelengths, behind which light sources (20), which emit one or more infrared wavelengths, are arranged.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2012Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Geberit International AGInventors: Roland Oberholzer, Florian Meier, Raffael Zingg
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Patent number: 8887758Abstract: A solenoid valve control device is provided with: a first relay connected in series to a drive coil of a solenoid valve between output terminals of a rectifier circuit; a photocoupler configured to output a voltage of a GND level when a current equal to or greater than a predetermined level is flowing in a contact in the first relay and output a voltage of a V5 level when the current equal to or greater than a predetermined level does not flow in the contact in the first relay; and an integration circuit configured to smooth an output voltage Va1 from the photocoupler. When an output voltage from the integration circuit is not greater than a first threshold value, a microcomputer detects that the first relay is in an on state.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2010Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Rinnai CorporationInventors: Kazuya Kamada, Kazuya Hirota, Kenji Nakai
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Publication number: 20140332705Abstract: A method of controlling a valve assembly includes calculating, by a controller of the valve assembly, one or more electrical signals to move a valve element of the valve assembly dependent on an actual and a desired position of the valve element. The method also includes sending, by the controller, the one or more electrical signals to an electrical actuator of the valve assembly. The method further includes detecting a valve fault condition defined as the actual position of the valve element failing to match the desired position of the valve element after a configurable period has elapsed. When the valve fault condition is detected, the method includes substituting the data corresponding to the desired position of the valve element with pulses of waveform data which oscillate about a value corresponding to the desired position of the valve element until either of two predetermined conditions is met.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2012Publication date: November 13, 2014Inventor: Adam Stubbs
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Patent number: 8881762Abstract: An engine air shutoff valve system with an improved sensor that facilitates a position detection of the shutoff valve is disclosed. The air shutoff valve system may include a shutoff valve, an indicator, and at least one solid-state proximity sensor. The shutoff valve is moveable between an open and closed position. The indicator is operatively coupled to the shutoff valve. The indicator is movable between a normal state and a tripped state in respective correspondence with the open and closed positions of the shutoff valve. At least one solid-state proximity sensor can be configured to detect when the indicator is in the tripped state.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2011Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Travis S. Johnson, Matthew J. Miller, Michael E. Kenning, Jason M. Brown, Dale E. Koekenberg
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Publication number: 20140326908Abstract: A valve control device for a vehicle, in particular, an agricultural, commercial vehicle, comprises a control unit for the control of an electromagnetically actuatable valve, wherein the control unit, upon activation of a self-calibration mode, requests an identification feature correlated with the electromagnetically valve, determines a valve type corresponding to the requested identification feature, and selects a control algorithm correlated with the determined valve type to control the electromagnetically actuatable valve. In accordance with the invention, the identification feature is a characteristic actuating distance of an actuating unit provided for the electromagnetic actuation of the valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2012Publication date: November 6, 2014Inventors: Markus Schober, Andreas Wehle
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Publication number: 20140318641Abstract: The invention relates to a valve sensor arrangement (1) having a valve body (12) which can be operated electrically, an electric drive (4) which is designed for that purpose, a local open-loop and closed-loop control device (5) and a communication interface (6), wherein the components (2, 4, 6) are embodied integrated into a valve housing (12), and sensors (8) can be located in sensor plug-in locations (13) and can be connected via electrical terminals (7) arranged on the valve housing (12) to the local open-loop and closed-loop control device (5) of the valve sensor arrangement (1), wherein the sensor plug-in locations (13) are integrated into the valve housing (12).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2012Publication date: October 30, 2014Inventors: Andrea Gentile, Frank Schmitz
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Patent number: 8870154Abstract: The invention relates to a shutter actuator including a translatably guided carriage (10) rigidly connected to the shaft (4) in the housing (3), and comprises: a rack (11) that meshes with the cog (20) of the outlet shaft (4) linked to the flap (2-1) of the shutter (2); a bearing (13) for a triggering spring (70); a bearing member (12) for a cocking member (30) that drives the carriage (10); and a locking notch (14-1) for receiving a locking member (42) supported by a locking arm (40).Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2010Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Vraco SASInventor: Jean-Baptiste Willoquet
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Patent number: 8863774Abstract: An automatic water flow controller for a faucet includes an outlet member, a manual valve device, one or more inlet pipes supplying water to the manual valve device, a coupling tube coupled between the outlet member and the manual valve device, a solenoid valve attached to the coupling tube for controlling the water to selectively flow through the coupling tube, and an infrared ray detector attached to the outlet member for detecting an approaching of a user within a detection zone of the infrared ray detector, the infrared ray detector is electrically connected to the solenoid valve for operating the solenoid valve to control the water to selectively flow through the coupling tube.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2012Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Inventor: Hsiang Hung Wang
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Patent number: 8857455Abstract: A method for regulating a steam bypass valve is provided. The bypass valve is arranged in a steam line and the steam line includes a device for spraying water. The equation, t Rest , 0 = FB max m . W , SOLL - m . W , IST is used to determine when to close the steam bypass valve. The steam bypass value is closed when tRest,0 is smaller than a value ?t. An actual volume of water {dot over (m)}W,IST, a desired volume of water {dot over (m)}W,SOLL and a maximum water-volume deficiency FBmax are used in the equation.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2011Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Stephan Minuth, Stefan Riemann, Klaus Rothe
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Patent number: 8857787Abstract: An electro-pneumatic device includes a sensor portion and a valve portion. The sensor portion, which includes a sensor, receives and transmits electronic control signals of a plurality of frequencies. The sensor portion is powered by a first of the frequencies of the received control signals. The valve portion electrically communicates with the sensor. The valve portion includes a valve that is alternately set to an open state and a closed state based on a second of the plurality of frequencies of the received control signals. The sensor senses a delivery pressure of the valve and transmits electronic data signals representing the delivery pressure at a third of the plurality of frequencies.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2011Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLCInventor: Daniel P. Zula
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Patent number: 8857786Abstract: A lavatory system is provided that includes a first wash station having a first fluid dispensing fixture and a first drain, a second wash station having a second fluid dispensing fixture and a second drain, a support structure extending between the first wash station and the second wash station and at least one array of photovoltaic cells supported at the support structure. The at least one array of photovoltaic cells is configured to provide power for operating both the first fluid dispensing fixture and the second fluid dispensing fixture.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2009Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Bradley Fixtures CorporationInventors: Graeme S. Bayley, John Loberger, Brendan Doorhy, Joseph Mazza, Brian Gaza, Donald O'Brien
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Patent number: 8857466Abstract: A system that provides for the remote control shutoff of a main supply of a utility to a structure in an unattended manner comprises a solenoid activated shutoff valve typically mounted immediately downstream of a main shutoff valve and a securable enclosure containing a remote control switch and audible alarm unit electrically connected to a power source. A manual bypass valve is provided as an override should it be required. Because the system requires electricity to operate, a general power failure will automatically shut off of the water supply. No back-up power source, such as a back-up battery, is utilized with the present system. Further, activation of the system is accomplished using a remote control to control the system from a distance.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2011Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Inventor: Thomas J. Wilson
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Publication number: 20140299330Abstract: A wireless actuation system comprises a transmitter, an actuation system comprising a receiving antenna, and one or more sliding members transitional from a first position to a second position. The transmitter is configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal, and the sliding member prevents a route of fluid communication via one or more ports of a housing when the sliding member is in the first position. The sliding member allows fluid communication via the one or more ports of the housing when the sliding member is in the second position, and the actuation system is configured to allow the sliding member to transition from the first position to the second position in response to recognition of the electromagnetic signal by the receiving antenna.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2013Publication date: October 9, 2014Applicant: HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INCInventors: Michael L. Fripp, Aaron J. Bonner
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Patent number: 8851447Abstract: An integrated irrigation valve control device has a coil adapted to develop an electromagnetic flux sufficient to cause actuation of irrigation equipment. Control circuitry is electrically coupled to the coil to control the flux at the coil. A housing covers at least a portion of the coil and at least a portion of the control circuitry.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2009Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Rain Bird CorporationInventors: Timothy J. Crist, Matthew S. Prucinsky, Michael A. Lorenz
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Patent number: 8844564Abstract: A faucet includes a proximity sensor, a logical control, a handle, a spout, and a touch control operably coupled to at least one of the spout and the handle.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2012Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Masco Corporation of IndianaInventors: Patrick B. Jonte, Robert W. Rodenbeck, David M. Burke, Garry R. Marty, Todd Huffintgon
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Publication number: 20140283918Abstract: A valve arrangement including a valve and a valve actuation arrangement is provided. The valve has a known flow profile. The valve includes a valve member and a valve stem operably coupled to the valve member for adjusting the position of the valve member. The valve actuation arrangement is operably coupled to the valve stem. The valve actuation arrangement includes a drive arrangement and a control arrangement. The drive arrangement is operably coupled to the valve stem and configured to adjust an actual stem position of the valve stem based on an actual stem positional signal. The control arrangement is configured to generate the actual stem positional signal. The control arrangement is configured to generate the actual stem positional signal based on an input control signal representing a desired stem position based on a desired flow profile being different than the known flow profile.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2014Publication date: September 25, 2014Applicant: Schneider Electric Buildings, LLCInventor: Stanley S. Dederich
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Patent number: 8843241Abstract: A remote monitoring and control system comprising synchronized wireless MESH technology for remote monitoring and control of utility grids (e.g., utility meters), commodity distribution networks, industrial equipment, and infrastructure including remote disconnection/connection and self-generating power.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2009Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Assignee: LiveMeters, Inc.Inventors: Ali Saberi, James Robert Gilbert, Kevin Lay
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Patent number: 8840084Abstract: An irrigation control device comprises a coil adapted to develop an electromagnetic flux sufficient to cause actuation of irrigation equipment. Control circuitry is electrically coupled to the coil to receive control signals from an irrigation control unit and to control the flux at the coil. A spacer is configured to maintain the coil at a predetermined position relative to the control circuitry.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2009Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Assignee: Rain Bird CorporationInventors: Timothy J. Crist, Matthew S. Prucinsky
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Publication number: 20140261783Abstract: A flush valve system is provided having an inlet and an outlet, and a main valve element adapted for transition between a closed position and an open position is disclosed. The flush valve further includes a control chamber in communication with the inlet, and a vent outlet in communication with the outlet. The system includes a solenoid for establishing communication between the control chamber and the vent outlet to establish a pressure differential across a portion of the main valve element. The system also includes a power supply for energizing the solenoid, a deployable actuator in communication with the power supply, and a microprocessor in electrical communication with the main valve element. The microprocessor is adapted to determine a valve opening time, calculate fluid pressure based on the valve opening time, and deliver a predetermined quantity of fluid through the valve based on fluid pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
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Patent number: 8827240Abstract: A system and method of Touch Free Automatic faucet controlled by electronic sensors provides a Primary-Water-Flow-Mode, a Continue-Water-Flow-Mode, a Temperature-Control-Mode, a Faucet-Pause-Mode, an Adjust-Water-Flow-Mode and a Flow-Temperature-Default-Setting-Mode for users to control faucet water flow and water temperature without touching any parts of faucet body. The system comprises at least three electronic sensors, a logical processor circuit board, an electricity power supply package, a water flow control valve assembly, a temperature control valve assembly, at least one faucet body housing and at least one inlet fluid line. From the outputs of the sensors, the logical processor responds to the flow control valve assembly and to the temperature control valve assembly to control water flow and temperature to the faucet spout.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2013Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Inventor: Chung-Chia Chen
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Patent number: 8827239Abstract: A system and method of Touch Free Automatic faucet controlled by electronic sensors provides a Primary-Water-Flow-Mode, a Continue-Water-Flow-Mode, a Temperature-Control-Mode, a Faucet-Pause-Mode, an Adjust-Water-Flow-Mode and a Flow-Temperature-Default-Setting-Mode for users to control faucet water flow and water temperature without touching any parts of faucet body. The system comprises at least three electronic sensors, a logical processor circuit board, an electricity power supply package, a water flow control valve assembly, a temperature control valve assembly, at least one faucet body housing and at least one inlet fluid line. From the outputs of the sensors, the logical processor responds to the flow control valve assembly and to the temperature control valve assembly to control water flow and temperature to the faucet spout.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2013Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Inventor: Chung-Chia Chen
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Patent number: 8820342Abstract: A device for controlling an actuator includes an input interface that receives a plurality of input signals including a setpoint command signal and a feedback signal. An output interface provides a drive signal to the actuator. First, second, and third redundant loop controllers processes the setpoint command signal and the feedback signal to generate respective actuator control signals. A primary controller compares the actuator control signals to determine whether at least two are substantially similar. The device outputs the drive signal to the actuator according to an actuator control signals that has been determined by the primary controller to be substantially similar to another. Any one of the redundant loop controllers is hot swappable with a replacement loop controller such that loop controller redundancy is operatively maintained by the device in controlling the actuator while one of the redundant loop controllers is hot swapped.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2011Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Tapco International CorporationInventors: Dan Nguyen Do, Robert Stocker Moreland
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Patent number: 8814133Abstract: An automatic speed searching device for a partial stroke test of a control valve includes a spool valve operatively connected to a pilot valve and a blocker valve. An electrical module is operatively connected to the pilot valve, a supply of control fluid, and the blocker valve. In an open position of the spool valve, a first control fluid inlet is fluidly connected to a first control fluid outlet, and in a closed position of the spool valve the first control fluid outlet is fluidly connected to a second control fluid outlet. A method of determining an optimum stroke speed includes iteratively powering a main and secondary solenoid in the electrical module and updating parameters to move a control element of the control valve until movement of the control element is within a desired range.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2011Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: General Equipment and Manufacturing Company, Inc.Inventors: Jingli Li, Bruce Rigsby, Robert L. LaFountain, Bruce R. Penning
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Patent number: 8813778Abstract: A valve control system includes a valve control device and a hand-held actuating apparatus for triggering operating actions within the valve control device. The hand-held actuating apparatus includes a magnet arrangement and the valve control device includes a magnetic field sensor arrangement adapted to the magnet arrangement of the hand-held actuating apparatus. The magnet arrangement includes one or more magnets and an actuating means. The magnetic fields of the magnets are individually variable by the actuating means without movement of the hand-held actuating apparatus relative to the magnetic field sensor arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2013Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Buerkert Werke GmbHInventors: René Bachmann, Ulrike Brinkmann, Kersten Grosse
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Patent number: 8814132Abstract: A method for regulating an actual variable (X) to a setpoint variable (W), a manipulated variable (Y) being ascertained from the setpoint variable (W) and the actual variable (X), and the manipulated variable being supplied to an input of a controlled system, and a change in the actual variable (X) occurring only upon the manipulated variable being changed by a minimum amount, an intermediary manipulated variable (Y?), to which a correcting quantity (K) is applied in the steady-state condition of the regulation for forming the manipulated variable (Y), being first ascertained from the setpoint variable (W) and the actual variable (X), only values which change the manipulated variable (Y) by less than a minimum amount being allowed for the correcting quantity (K).Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2008Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Alex Grossman, Mattias Hallor, Soenke Mannal
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Patent number: 8807167Abstract: A method for regulating water output is presented. The method includes receiving an input at a plurality of sensors, transmitting a signal to a control unit in response to receiving the input, controlling, via the control unit, a first plurality of solenoid valves to regulate hot water controlling, via the control unit, a second plurality of solenoid valves to regulate cold water in response to the signal, creating a water mixture comprising at least hot water output from at least one of the first plurality of solenoid valves or cold water output from at least one of the second plurality of solenoid valves, and outputting the water mixture to a water output unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2012Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Muirsis IncorporatedInventor: Su Yong Song
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Patent number: 8807161Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate to a fuel line valve for an aircraft, that includes a shell capable of rotation inside the valve body and connected to a driving shaft driven by an electric actuator. The valve further includes a torque generation means and position detection means. The torque generation means are connected to the shell and generate a torque that varies based on the position of said shell in the valve body on the driving shaft. The position detection means provide electric signals characterizing the positions of said driving shaft. The disclosed embodiments also relate to a method for diagnosing the operation of such a valve in order to detect a failure during the operation thereof, and to a device for implementing said method.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2008Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Airbus Operations SASInventor: Richard Wilby
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Patent number: 8810427Abstract: Electronic control system for a submarine actuator, said actuator comprising a container body, from which a drive shaft projects that is suitable for inserting in a seat of said submarine device. The system comprises an electronic control board for at least one electric motor arranged inside said container body suitable for moving said drive shaft.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2009Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Cameron International CorporationInventors: Carlo Liberale, Fabio Imperiali
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Patent number: 8807523Abstract: A low-cost safety valve for gas lines and similar supply lines that can be remotely activated via a secure wireless link employing a low leakage sealing mechanism that is compatible with low energy actuators to for extended battery life. A miniaturized controller and wireless electronics assembly provides the control mechanism for actuating the valve, as well as reporting data regarding the valve status to wireless interrogators or external networks via an ad hoc wireless network. A variety of simple magnetic valve operating mechanisms can be implemented with the miniaturized electronic control circuits and the valve body. Such control actuation mechanisms enable automatic resetting or manual resetting valves. The gas line shut off valve can provide important safety benefits at an affordable price.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2013Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Gas Sentinel, LLCInventors: Barth R. Pitchford, John H. Pitchford, William D. Pitchford, Donald S. Pitchford, Steven Nagel, Benedict J. Nardi, Russell S. Smith, Robert Simon
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Patent number: 8807521Abstract: A fluid flow control system having a fluid inlet configured to be operatively coupled to a fluid source, a fluid outlet in fluid communication with the fluid inlet such that fluid may exit the system therethrough, a proximity sensor for detecting the position of an object within a region adjacent the sensor, and a flow control device configured to regulate fluid flow between the inlet and outlet in response to object detection by the sensor, wherein the flow control device varies the fluid flow proportional to the detected distance of an object from the sensor. A water flow control system for use in a shower environment is also provided, as well as a shower control system, methods for controlling water flow based on sensing of the presence and location of an object, and methods for reducing water consumption.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2011Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Inventors: Kerry Dunki-Jacobs, Robert Dunki-Jacobs
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Patent number: 8807522Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 11, 2012Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Azbil CorporationInventors: Kouji Okuda, Hiroaki Nagoya, Yoshio Maehana
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Publication number: 20140225014Abstract: The present invention comprises a method and apparatus for controlling gas flow via a gas shut-off valve assembly. In at least one embodiment, the assembly is configured to drive its shut-off valve from an open position to a closed position, in response to detecting a valve closure condition. The assembly in one or more embodiments operates as an intelligent node in an AMR network, and it interprets a received closure command as a closure condition. Additionally, or alternatively, the assembly detects abnormal operating conditions as the closure condition. Advantageously, the assembly performs initial closure verification, based on detecting movement of the valve into the closed position, and performs subsequent closure verification, based on monitoring downstream gas pressure. In the same or other embodiments, the assembly provides enhanced stand-alone reliability and safety by incorporating one or more valve clearing/cleaning routines into its operations.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2014Publication date: August 14, 2014Applicant: Sensus USA Inc.Inventors: Tim Scott, Dirk Steckmann, Daniel W. Peace, Doug Vargas
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Publication number: 20140225015Abstract: The present invention comprises a method and apparatus for controlling gas flow via a gas shut-off valve assembly. In at least one embodiment, the assembly is configured to drive its shut-off valve from an open position to a closed position, in response to detecting a valve closure condition. The assembly in one or more embodiments operates as an intelligent node in an AMR network, and it interprets a received closure command as a closure condition. Additionally, or alternatively, the assembly detects abnormal operating conditions as the closure condition. Advantageously, the assembly performs initial closure verification, based on detecting movement of the valve into the closed position, and performs subsequent closure verification, based on monitoring downstream gas pressure. In the same or other embodiments, the assembly provides enhanced stand-alone reliability and safety by incorporating one or more valve clearing/cleaning routines into its operations.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2014Publication date: August 14, 2014Applicant: SENSUS USA INC.Inventors: Tim Scott, Dirk Steckmann, Daniel W. Peace, Doug Vargas
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Patent number: 8800960Abstract: An automatic water supply control device is disclosed. A power processing unit processes an alternating current outputted by a micro hydro generator and provides a stable direct current. The automatic water supply control device uses a capacitor and a capacitor matrix for storing electric energy. A sensing unit detects changes from an environment such as human proximity, temperature and humidity and outputs sensing signals. A micro controller set receives the sensing signals sent by the sensing unit in order to control an electromagnetic drive unit and drive the electromagnetic coil. The micro controller set also controls an electromagnetic drive unit to drive an electromagnetic coil for supplying water and performing charging based on a logical setting, when an output voltage value of a step-down voltage conversion circuit is lower than a preset voltage value.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2012Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Inventor: Ching-Yen Hsu
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Patent number: 8800959Abstract: The present invention provides a flow-rate control valve that allows for manufacturing cost reduction and has a compact size with improved ease of maintenance. The flow-rate control valve includes a lower casing provided with a channel that leads a liquid and a fluid and with a valve seat, a valve body that controls, in conjunction with the valve seat, the flow rate of the liquid and the fluid that pass through the channel, a reciprocating drive part that moves the valve body closer to or away from the valve seat, and an upper casing that houses the reciprocating drive part.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2009Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Surpass Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masahiro Hasunuma
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Publication number: 20140216419Abstract: A method is disclosed for controlling a valve having a spring with a spring force, an actuator with an actuator force opposing the spring force, and a pin that is actuated by the actuator, a seal element that can be coupled with the pin, and a seal seat, the valve being closed when the seal element sits against the seal seat. The method includes determining an expected natural opening time when the seal element is lifted off the seal seat based on a pressure difference in front and behind the valve, impressing a specified current on the actuator at a point in time within a specified interval prior to the natural opening time, the seal element sitting against the seal seat at the point in time such that the pin contacts the seal element and the actuator force matches the spring force, which is reduced by a specified value.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2012Publication date: August 7, 2014Inventors: Michael Wirkowski, Christian Mey
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Publication number: 20140222313Abstract: A method includes energizing a solenoid valve of a hydraulic control system according to a predetermined timing schedule to move a valve member of the solenoid valve. The solenoid valve is operatively connected to the switching component by a fluid control passage, such as a passage in an engine block, to deliver pressurized fluid from a supply passage when the valve member moves to switch the switching component from a first mode to a second mode. An operating parameter of the control system is measured. The operating parameter may be a period of time over which the valve member moves, or a sensed operating parameter of the fluid, such as pressure or temperature. The measured parameter is then compared with a predetermined parameter. Energizing of the solenoid valve is then adjusted based on the difference.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2012Publication date: August 7, 2014Applicant: Eaton CorporationInventors: Robert D. Keller, David Turner, Mark L. Dell'Eva
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Publication number: 20140209825Abstract: A method for remote control and monitoring of a valve from a remote control/monitoring station comprises the following steps: providing a valve assembly including a valve body and a movable valve member, a mechanical position sensor, a drive motor, and an analog control module controlling the drive motor in response to incoming analog control signals and producing analog output control signals corresponding to the position of the valve member; removing the mechanical position sensor; removing the analog control module; operatively connecting an optical position sensor to the valve member; operatively connecting a digital control module to the drive motor and the optical position sensor controlling the drive motor in response to incoming digital control signals and producing digital output control signals corresponding to the valve member position; and communicating the digital input and output signals between the valve controller and a remote control/monitoring station over an electronic network.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2014Publication date: July 31, 2014Inventors: JONATHAN S. FICK, ANDREW P. SARGENT, JEFFREY N. SEWARD
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Patent number: 8783651Abstract: A sanitary fitting includes a joint arrangement having a support connection piece that defines an abutment face that is at least approximately flat; a joint part that rests flat against the abutment face by way of an at least approximately flat mating face, and defines a neutral position; a spring that is supported at one end against the support connection piece and at the other end against the joint part, the spring using a spring force to push the joint part against the abutment face by way of the mating face; and a rod-like extremity that is arranged on the joint part at a fixed angle in relation to the mating face.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2010Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: KWC AGInventors: Christian Gautschi, Daniel Baumann
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Patent number: 8783650Abstract: A gas valve having a gas enclosure with a gas inlet, a gas outlet and a passage opening situated between the gas inlet and the gas outlet. A valve seat of the valve cooperates with the passage opening to regulate the flow of gas through the valve. An electrical actuator assembly is operatively coupled with the valve seat to regulate the flow of gas through the valve. In one implementation the gas enclosure is at least in part sealed by an elastic sealing member that is pressed upon by a printed circuit board that electrically connects the actuator assembly to an exterior of the gas valve.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2011Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Coprecitec, S.L.Inventors: Félix Querejeta Andueza, Francisco Javier Echenausía Sáez de Zaitegui, José Ignacío Múgica Odriozoal
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Patent number: 8783277Abstract: In an actuator, an electric power supply to a position-detecting detector for an object to be driven can be carried out in a timely manner during a power failure to thereby suppress an electric power consumption in the position-detecting detector, whereby duration time of a power-failure compensation battery can be prolonged, and a variety of detectors can be selected and utilized without limitation in accordance with a use environment and usefulness. During the power failure, a switching means 40 establishes a linking state in which an input shaft 11 of a reduction mechanism 10 and a manual inputting means 30 are linked to each other. When the linking state is detected by a detecting means, an electric power is fed from a battery 80 to a rotation detector by a control section 70, so that the control section 70 can obtain a displacement of the object to be driven, based on a signal output from the rotation detector.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2011Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Seibu Electric & Machinery Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masakazu Mori, Daisuke Kukita, Chikara Kitajima, Seiya Shimada
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Patent number: 8776824Abstract: The present invention provides a sanitary automatic water leakage detection and shut-off apparatus installed between a water controlling unit and a water outgoing unit and comprising a water controller, an accumulating unit and a detecting unit; wherein the water controlling unit comprises an inlet, an outlet and a solenoid valve. The solenoid valve is a normally-open solenoid valve capable of closing the outlet to stop water from going out. The accumulating unit is mounted between the water controlling unit and the water outgoing unit and comprises an accumulating hole adjacent to a bottom thereof. The detecting unit is installed on the accumulating unit and electrically connected to the solenoid valve. The detecting unit activates the solenoid valve via an electronic communication method based on a leakage status of the accumulating unit to shut off the water outlet of the water controlling unit and to stop water supply thereof immediately.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Micro Sutures & Golden-Tech Co., Ltd.Inventor: Duan Yao
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Patent number: 8776817Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 20, 2011Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Masco Corporation of IndianaInventors: Joel D. Sawaski, Michael J. Veros
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Patent number: 8746652Abstract: An illustrative method for operating a valve, where the valve includes a valve seat, a valve plunger and a stepper motor for moving the valve plunger from a first position into a second position in which the valve plunger is pressed against a valve seat and for compressing a flexible element assigned to the valve plunger in said second position. The stepper motor may be driven a defined number of steps (NTOTAL) in order to move the valve plunger into the second position and to compress the flexible element. The method may include: driving the stepper motor a first number of steps (N1) at a first current level (I1); driving the stepper motor a second number of steps (N2) at a second current level (I2); and driving the stepper motor a third number of steps (N3) at a third current (I3) level.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2011Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Honeywell Technologies SARLInventors: Ed Van Gils, Giovanni Paolo De Cesare, Marco Cattaneo
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Publication number: 20140150731Abstract: A gas control valve includes a base, a stop device, a driving device. The base has a gas passageway therein for gas to flow therethrough. The stop device is provided in the base to be moved between a first position, in which the stop device narrows the gas passageway to allow a first gas flow flowing through the base, and a second position, in which the stop device allows a second gas flow flowing through the base, wherein the second gas flow is greater than the first gas flow. The driving device is controllable to move the stop device between the first position and the second position. Therefore, the gas control valve of the present invention may adjust the gas flow.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2013Publication date: June 5, 2014Applicant: GRAND MATE CO., LTD.Inventors: CHUNG-CHIN HUANG, CHIN-YING HUANG, HSIN-MING HUANG, HSING-HSIUNG HUANG, KUAN-CHOU LIN, YEN-JEN YEH