Abstract: The present invention relates to a three-in-one valve comprising an inlet shutoff valve for shutting off flow to an inlet of the valve, an outlet shutoff valve for shutting off flow into an outlet of the valve and a control valve for opening and closing the valve. During operation, the control valve can be opened and closed while the inlet shut off valve and outlet shut off valve are in an open position. The inlet shutoff valve and outlet shutoff can be closed for preventing flow into the control valve, thereby allowing the control valve to be serviced without draining of an attached fluid system, such as a radiator. In one embodiment, the three-in-one valve can be used to provide individual zone control for an individual radiator in a multi-radiator and boiler recirculating system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for controlling the switching movement of a valve according to the preamble of claim 1. It is the object of the present invention to design a control device in this regard such that it can be largely prefabricated and can be very easily converted to different operating voltages or data protocols, that the stock inventory of these control devices can be reduced and that economical quantities can be achieved more easily than before.

Abstract: A detection system for a washroom device evaluates outputs from an active sensor and a passive sensor to determine whether to activate the device (e.g., operate a valve in a sink or a lavatory). The active sensor has a transmitter that directs a light beam to a selected zone and a receiver that detects whether the light beam is reflected back to the sensor. The passive sensor detects changes in a temperature signature around the washroom device. A controller evaluates the outputs from both the active sensor and the passive sensor to determine how to operate the washroom device.

Abstract: An automatic flush actuation apparatus, which is incorporated with a flushing system having a water inlet, a water outlet, and a water chamber communicating therebetween, that includes a valve member being moved by a flush lever for releasing the water pressure within the water chamber to allow the water passing from the water inlet to the water outlet, and a sensor-operated powering assembly including a relief valve provided at the valve member for controlling the water flowing to the water outlet and an actuator arranged in such a manner that while sensing a presence of a user of the flushing system, the actuator is driven to move the relief valve to an opened position for releasing the water pressure within the water chamber to allow the water passing to said water outlet.

Abstract: 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).

Abstract: A proportional directional control valve having a linearly movable valve element, a magnetic assembly operatively connected to the valve element where the magnetic assembly provides a magnetic field responsive to the linear motion of the valve element, a linear Hall-effect sensor assembly configured to generate an electrical signal responsive to a change in the magnetic field, and a control system that controls the linear movement of the valve element in response to a comparison of the electrical signal and a command electrical input signal. The magnetic assembly includes a non-magnetic housing defining an axial passageway, first and second magnets disposed in the passageway, first and second magnetic pole pieces disposed be in the passageway between the first and second magnets, and a non-magnetic spacer disposed in the passageway between the first and second magnets and between the first and second magnetic pole pieces.

Abstract: A hose control system comprising a receiver and a transmitter by which one can remotely control both the flow of water through a hose and the winding or unwinding of the hose onto a reel. The system preferably has power saving advantages, for example, by the use of a power control unit that reduces the power consumed by the electronics of the devices, but does not unreasonably disrupt the use of the devices. The receiver may be used with different aspects or all of the hose control system.

Abstract: An apparatus (such as a valve assembly or other actuator) includes a pressure plate having a first hole and a second hole. The apparatus also includes a plunger configured to selectively cover the second hole of the pressure plate. The apparatus further includes a coil configured to move the plunger away from the pressure plate to uncover the second hole of the pressure plate in order to allow a material to flow through the apparatus. The coil is also configured to move the plunger towards the pressure plate to cover the second hole of the pressure plate in order to block the material from flowing through the apparatus. Pressure may equalize on a first side and a second side of the pressure plate after the plunger covers the second hole of the pressure plate.

Abstract: A modular arrangement is proposed with modules (10-25) added in a row direction, these being constructed at least partially as valve modules (16-21, 23, 24), wherein one module is constructed as a control module (10) and is connected to the other modules (11-25) by means of control and/or sensor lines (30) running transversely through these modules. Voltage supply lines (36, 37) powered by a voltage source (33) run transversely through the modules (10-25). At least one module is constructed as a safety module (12) and has switching means (38) for interrupting the voltage supply lines (36) to the modules (13-21) powered via the safety module (12) in the activated state. Safety-related control and/or diagnostic means are provided for activating the switching means (38).

Abstract: Systems, apparatuses and methods for controlling valves through controlled power escalation towards the actuation threshold of the valve. A power signal is applied to a control input of a valve at a level less than a valve switch threshold at which the valve will be actuated. The power to the control input is then progressively increased. The valve is actuated when the power signal eventually reaches the valve switch threshold, thereby actuating the valve using a power signal commensurate with the actual valve switch threshold of the particular valve and its current operating conditions.

Abstract: A method of controlling a flow of liquid includes calibrating a PSD infrared sensor associated with the spout. The calibrating includes turning on the spout to thereby dispense a stream of liquid from the spout and into a stream space; emitting infrared energy from the PSD infrared sensor and toward the stream of liquid; sensing a first position of the infrared energy after the infrared energy has been reflected back to the sensor from the stream of liquid; storing first information based upon the first position of the reflected infrared energy; turning off the spout to thereby inhibit the liquid from being dispensed from the spout; sensing a second position of the infrared energy after the infrared energy has been reflected back to the sensor from an object that is fixed relative to the sensor; and storing second information based upon the second position of the reflected infrared energy. Infrared energy is emitted from the PSD infrared sensor and toward the stream space.

Abstract: A proximity faucet is provided that includes a housing, faucet and lever support portions and a peripheral housing wall with a spout portion having a neck extending outward from the housing wall and a fluid outlet at a free extent thereof. The faucet support portion accommodates an elongate shank extending downwardly therefrom and having at least one fluid supply conduit therein. The lever support portion receives a mixing cartridge therein that mixes cold and hot water delivered by the fluid supply conduit. The lever support portion supports a freely rotatable lever thereon. The lever is coupled to the mixing cartridge such that rotation of the lever adjusts the water temperature and flow rate. A sensor cover ring that is rotatably disposed adjacent the housing wall includes a reflective surface along an inner surface thereof that lies adjacent the housing wall.

Abstract: An irrigation shutoff device (1) that is operational with and fluidly connected to a sprinkler (44) or irrigation valve (37) wherein the irrigation shutoff device (1) has a propeller (10), a coil (11), a timing rod (5) and a timing bar (4) located within a housing (26) and at least one switch (12 and 13). The propeller (10) and coil (11) are located on a first end (47) of the timing rod (5) and a dial adjustment timer (6) is located on a second opposite end (48) of the timing rod (5). The timing rod (5) extends through the timing bar (4) and the at least one switch (12 and 13) is located a predetermined distance between the first and second ends (47 and 48) of the timing rod (5). A malfunction indicator (25) provides a visual cue as to when the irrigation shutoff device (1) has been activated, thereby requiring a user to repair the sprinkler system.

Abstract: A remotely-actuated residential water supply cut-off system is disclosed. A remotely-actuated cut-off valve interposed in a residential water line downstream of a pressure-reducing valve. An electronic actuator is mounted on the cut-off valve and is remotely actuated to drive a DC motor in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction to open or close the cut-off valve in response to a received signal. The electronic actuator includes a transceiver, a microcontroller and a motor. The microcontroller drives the motor to open or close the valve in response to a wireless signal received by the transceiver. A handheld transceiver unit sends a signal to the actuator to open or close the cut-off valve, or operate in automatic mode.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sanitary fitting which comprises at least one actuating element (10, 20, 30) for actuating the sanitary fitting. Said actuating element comprises a contactless or contact-sensitive sensor (13, 23, 33) arranged inside or below a transparent cover (12, 22, 32). A display device (14, 24, 34) is mounted below said cover and is controlled by a control device (15, 25, 35) in such a manner that it changes its display status when the actuating element (10, 20, 30) is actuated, thereby confirming actuation.

Abstract: A faucet control apparatus adapted for retrofitting in a faucet system having a faucet spout removable from a faucet base comprises a body having a water inlet adapted to be connected to the outlet side of a faucet base, and a water outlet adapted to accept the water inlet of a faucet spout, a sensor in the body for detecting the presence of a person's hands beneath the outlet side of the faucet spout, and a water valve in the body responsive to the sensor, which valve is in a normally closed position but which opens in response to the presence of a person's hands beneath the outlet side of the faucet spout as detected by the sensor.

Abstract: A faucet is provided comprising in-service separable parts that can be removed from the faucet without having to remove the entire housing. The faucet includes a main support housing, bolts, brackets and nuts to secure the main support body to a sink surface, two water inlets for connecting hot and cold incoming water lines. A flow control assembly is provided at each inlet to regulate the hot and cold water introduced into a mixing chamber. The valve housing includes an independent adjustable mixing valve for regulating the flow of water, an inline screen filter for removing particulate matter from the water stream, and a check valve for preventing water from returning back to the water source. Upon passing through the check valve and into water mixing housing inlets, the water is mixed in a mixing chamber. From the mixing chamber the water is regulated by a solenoid. When sink users place their hands, or other objects in front of the sensor the solenoid is activated.

Abstract: An automatic bathroom flusher includes a body having an inlet in communication with a supply line and an outlet in communication with a flush conduit, a valve assembly in the body positioned to close water flow between the inlet and the outlet upon sealing action of a moving member at a valve seat thereby controlling flow from the inlet to the outlet, an actuator for actuating operation of the moving member, and a controller.

Abstract: Submarine actuator for the actuation of a submarine device comprises a container body (2), from which a drive shaft (4) projects that is suitable for inserting in a seat of said submarine device, which through its rotation actuates said submarine device. Said shaft is moved by an electric motor (21, 22) arranged inside said container body and actuated by an electric control signal generated by a remote station.

Abstract: A method and system for reliably detecting structure and water system leaks incorporates motion-sensing for determining whether there is activity in a building is occupied and measures humidity of the inside of the building. If there is no activity in the building, and an unexpected level of humidity or sudden change in humidity is detected, an alarm is generated and the building water system can be disabled by an electrically controlled valve. Current consumed by water-consuming and/or water vapor generating appliances can be detected and used to qualify the generating of an alarm or interruption of the water system, so that false alarms are not generated and the water supply is not interrupted due to operation of those appliances.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A remote control actuator apparatus comprising a recharger, a battery pack, a valve actuator, and connecting couplers. The valve actuator comprises an RF receiver and a 12 VDC/24VAC inverter. A hand held battery operated remote controller transmits a given signal for a given water valve control to an RF receiver in the valve actuator, which then sends 24 volts AC signal through a coupler to either a cable with magnetic connectors or a remote control module connected to wiring between the valve control and the valve.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a handheld element and a remote control. The handheld element has a proximal end, a distal end, and an internal flow conduit. The internal flow conduit extends between the proximal and distal ends. The internal flow conduit is configured to be in fluid communication with a hose. The remote control is integrated with the handheld element. The remote control is configured to transmit wireless data signals for controlling a device associated with the hose. The device may include a reel, a valve system, a valve unit, and/or a plurality of valves.

Abstract: An automatic flush actuation apparatus, which is incorporated with a flushing system having a water inlet, a water outlet, and a water chamber communicating therebetween, that includes a valve member being moved by a flush lever for releasing the water pressure within the water chamber to allow the water passing from the water inlet to the water outlet, and a sensor-operated powering assembly including a relief valve provided at the valve member for controlling the water flowing to the water outlet and an actuator arranged in such a manner that while sensing a presence of a user of the flushing system, the actuator is driven to move the relief valve to an opened position for releasing the water pressure within the water chamber to allow the water passing to said water outlet.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for monitoring a pipeline in order to detect the slow reduction of the free inner cross-section by means of the position of a control valve in the pipeline. When the flow rate is essentially constant, a first position is determined and stored at a first moment. According to at least one second position of the control valve, determined at a second, subsequent moment, the point at which the position of the valve exceeds a pre-deterrninable threshold value for a valve opening is determined, and optionally a signal is emitted to indicate that the threshold value has been exceeded and/or the time at which it was exceeded. As a result, suitable maintenance measures can be introduced, before faults occur in the process system.

Abstract: A method of driving a parallel-plate variable micro-electromechanical capacitor includes establishing a first charge differential across first and second conductive plates of a variable capacitor in which the first and second conductive plates are separated by a variable gap distance, isolating the first and second plates for a first duration, decreasing the charge differential to a second charge differential which is less than the first charge differential and in which the second charge differential corresponds to a second value of the variable gap distance.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel optical sensors and novel methods for sensing optical radiation. The novel optical sensors and the novel optical sensing methods are used, for example, for controlling the operation of automatic faucets and flushers. The novel sensors and flow controllers (including control electronics and valves) require only small amounts of electrical power for sensing users of bathroom facilities, and thus enable battery operation for many years. A passive optical sensor includes a light detector sensitive to ambient (room) light for controlling the operation of automatic faucets or automatic bathroom flushers.

Abstract: In a proportional solenoid valve control device, a mode selecting switch has an auto-mode position for sending a control signal from a level converting section to a driving signal amplifying section, a valve fully-closing manual position for supplying a valve fully-closing signal to the driving signal amplifying section, and a valve fully-opening manual position for supplying a valve fully-opening signal to the driving signal amplifying section. With the mode selecting switch set at the valve fully-closing manual position, a value of the valve fully-closing driving signal can be adjusted. With the mode selecting switch set at the valve fully-opening manual position, a value of the valve fully-opening driving signal can be adjusted. This makes it possible to easily perform an initial setting operation of the proportional solenoid valve by a valve controller.

Abstract: A remotely activated shut-off for stopping a fluid flow in a fluid line by actuating an existing valve in fluid connection with the fluid line wherein the valve is within an existing valve body and includes an existing external element for the actuating of the valve between a valve open position and a valve closed position. The shut-off including an outer body having means for connecting the outer body to the valve body in a mounted position such that the external element is substantially covered when the shut-off is in the mounted position. The shut-off further including a coupler for mating engagement with the external element such that movement of the coupler is translated to the external element and a lever within the housing that is moveable between a first position and a second position and is selectively engageable with the coupler such that movement of the lever from the first position to the second position actuates the valve to the valve closed position.

Abstract: Disclosed is an actuating device (1) for fixtures, particularly plumbing fixtures, comprising at least one input unit that is provided with a plurality of sensors (2, 3, 4) which are connected to a control unit (10), and at least one drive unit (12) for at least one closing device (13) for at least one fluid pipe (14), especially a valve of a water pipe that can be controlled by means of the control unit (10). At least three sensors (2, 3, 4) are arranged in a substantially regular manner essentially along a closed curve (5). The drive unit (12) is triggered when signals of at least two adjacent sensors (2, 3, 4) are detected.

Abstract: A servomechanism includes a controller which dynamically estimates the resistance of the solenoid coil in an electrohydraulic valve as part of determining a level of electric voltage to apply to open the valve. The servomechanism receives a current setpoint designating a desired electric current level and senses the actual level of current flowing through the coil. A proportional term is derived from the current setpoint and the actual level of current. Creation of a derivative term is based on the difference between the current setpoint and the actual level of current. A feedforward term is produced by estimating the resistance of the electrohydraulic valve and limiting the feedforward term to a predefined range of acceptable values. The proportional term, derivative term, and the feedforward term are summed to define a desired voltage level, and a PWM signal for driving the electrohydraulic valve is generated based on the desired voltage level.

Abstract: A valve assembly comprises a rotatable valve, an electrically operated actuator, and an overstroke device. The actuator comprises a component configured to move in a direction to an actuator position so as to cause corresponding rotation of the valve to a valve position in response to electrical operation of the actuator. The overstroke device is configured to enable the component to move in the direction beyond the actuator position to an overstroke position while the valve remains in the valve position in response to electrical operation of the actuator.

Abstract: A control system for a flow adjusting valve, it uses rotation of a motor as the power force to move a terminal output axle and then to change the openness of the latter; and further includes a magnet and a magnetic inductive element in opposition to the magnet to count the number of rotating turns of the terminal output axle to obtain different fed back signals, thus the openness of the flow adjusting valve can be known; clutch gears are provided between the motor and the terminal output axle, when the clutch gears generate a getting off action, the maximum and the minimum states of the openness of the flow adjusting valve can be known by rotating forwards and backwards of the motor, this can be a reference method to have the frequency signals of the control system for the flow adjusting valve set zero for correction.

Abstract: A flexible drive mechanism for a flushing apparatus actuated by movement of a flush handle via an actuation element is disclosed. The drive mechanism includes a housing and flexible drive system in the housing, the flexible drive system including an actuating element operable to move the flush handle between a non-actuating position and a full stop actuating position. The housing further includes first and second bracket halves and first and second removable insert halves for adapting the first and second bracket halves to substantially enclose and engage a bushing and nut and thereby secure said electromechanical flexible actuator to the flush lever of the sanitary fixture.

Abstract: A method for controlling a dome-operated pressure regulator is disclosed. The pressure at a dome side of the pressure regulator is measured. The operation of the pressure regulator is controlled based upon at least a received command signal and the measurement. A proportional control valve may be used to control the pressure on at the dome side of the pressure regulator. A controller and a system are also disclosed.

Abstract: A soap dispenser, preferably a sink side counter mounted dispenser, to dispense foamed liquid soap by mixing in an outlet of a soap spout liquid, soap and air preferably provided from a liquid soap pump and a air pump located remote from the faucet.

Abstract: An improved sensing water faucet structure includes a support unit comprised of a base body, a fixing rod and an outlet pipe; a bushing sheathed onto the base body; a sensor installed on a sidewall in the bushing; and a fixing unit disposed at an end of the bushing an end. The fixing unit has an interconnecting portion with an end coupled to the outlet pipe and another end having an outlet faucet, so as to achieve the effects of manufacturing, assembling, using, maintaining, installing and removing the sensing water faucet.

Abstract: The invention provides simplified methods and devices for conserving water by controlling water flow from plumbing fixtures using voice or sound commands. One aspect of the invention provides a method for conserving water that includes the step of: providing a faucet or showerhead or the like with voice or sound control of the amount of water flow, which control does not include control of temperature of water exiting the fixture. Another aspect of the invention provides a device for conserving water that includes a voice or sound command-responsive control unit that controls the amount of flow of water from a plumbing fixture such as a faucet or showerhead by actuating a valve that is disposed downstream of the mixing of hot and cold water. Valve states may include only open and closed, i.e., on and off, or may optionally include one or more intermediate flow positions.

Abstract: A fluid operated position regulator comprises a servo means, arranged in a regulator housing and by which a supply connection, a venting connection and a power connection can be placed in circuit in an adjustable manner. To predetermine or set its position the servo means possesses two mutually oppositely orientated fluid actuating faces of equal size, which respectively delimit a control chamber. The two control chambers are connected by way of an intermediately placed choke means with a common control pressure connection. Downstream from the two choke means each control chamber is connected with a venting connection. A control valve means can control the two venting connections and in particular simultaneously close them.

Abstract: An assembly for controlling the flow, and ultimately the temperature, of water in a water supply line to a plumbing fixture that includes at least one valve capable of external activation in fluid connection with the at least one water supply line, the valve being capable of transitioning between a closed position and an open position to regulate flow through the at least one water supply line and at least two electrically operated controls in connection with a valve capable of external activation, wherein one of the controls is remote from the plumbing fixture.

Abstract: A method for operating an electrohydraulic valve initially derives a characterization value that denotes how magnetic hysteresis affects valve operation. Upon receiving a command that designates a desired magnitude of electric current to be applied to the electrohydraulic valve, that command is modified based on the characterization value to compensate for the magnetic hysteresis. The modified command then is employed to apply electric current to the electrohydraulic valve.

Abstract: A flushing system with a sensing module, having at least one sensor and a controller circuit having a sensor detection and trigger sub-circuit operatively coupled to said at least one sensor, and a flushing mechanism operatively coupled to said motion sensing module. The detection and trigger sub-circuit is coupled to the at least one sensor and wherein the at least one sensor comprises an infrared sensor having a defined volume of free space wherein the flushing mechanism is activated by the motion sensing module if an object is detected within said defined volume. An additional infrared sensor can be used in conjunction with the first sensor, and code executable by the controller circuit, so as to provide predetermined algorithms to activate the flushing mechanism.

Abstract: A bathroom flusher includes a flusher body, a valve assembly, an electronic control system, and a flusher cover. The flusher body includes an inlet and an outlet, and is designed to accommodate the valve assembly that controls water flow between the inlet and the outlet. The valve assembly includes a valve member movable with respect to a valve seat providing a sealing action based on applied pressure on the valve assembly. The bathroom flusher also includes an external cover designed for enclosing an electronic control module comprising a battery, a sensor, and an actuator for controlling operation of the flush valve, wherein the external cover includes at least two cover parts separately removable, and wherein the external cover is attachable with respect to the valve body in a manner also allowing removable attachment of the control module.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an induction flush device connecting water supply and a toilet bowl. The induction flush device includes a tank, a fixing board, a flush valve set and a panel. The panel is mounted on a side of the tank. The flush valve set is mounted on the fixing board. The tank forms a first guiding element thereon, and the fixing board forms a second guiding element thereon for cooperating with the first guiding element, thereby the fixing board is movable relative to the tank. The flush valve set includes an anti-reverse valve, an electromagnetic valve, a flexible inlet pipe for connecting with the water supply, and a flexible outlet pipe for draining water to toilet bowl. The flush valve set is movable relative the tank with the fixing board for repairing or replacement.

Abstract: A fluid control system, device and method are disclosed. The fluid control device is preferably configured to connect to an outlet of a fluid source. The fluid control device includes a valve, a sensor, a battery and a micro-generator. The sensor is used to measure or detect a condition and provide output signals that open and close the valve in response to a measured or detected condition. The micro-generator is positioned in a flow path of fluid and generates power from a flow of the fluid. The power generated from the micro-generator is stored in the battery and used to power later operations of the device. The device can be used for automating faucets, sprinklers and fire extinguishing equipment.

Abstract: A positioning control apparatus includes a position detector 102 which detects the position of a positioning object 101, a target position generator 103 which generates a target position signal based on an output from the position detector, and a driving unit 104 which drives the positioning object based on an output from the target position generator. The target position generator 103 includes a control unit which sets a temporary target position of the positioning object and performs the learning of a reference position of the positioning object. A control gain given to the driving unit includes a first control gain, which is valid until the positioning object reaches the set temporary target position, and a second control gain, which is smaller than the first control gain and which is valid after the time when the positioning object has reached the temporary target position until the reference position learning is completed.

Abstract: An automatic faucet system includes a sensor and a controller. The sensor includes an emitter constructed and arranged to emit light having a first polarization toward an object. The sensor further includes a detector configured to detect light reflected from the object having a second polarization that is different from the first polarization. The controller is operatively coupled to the detector. The controller is configured to supply water to a faucet, or other water supply, upon sensing by the detector the light having the second polarization. By sensing in such a manner, the level of false positive readings in the system is reduced. The detector is further configured to determine the location of the object so that the faucet is only activated when the object is in close proximity to the faucet.

Abstract: The present invention provides an automatic faucet with a movable cam assembly for mounting the senor and sensor window inside of the faucet body. The cam has an obliquely angled surface and can be moved up against a spring to provide space for assembling the sensor inside the faucet. Once the sensor is properly positioned, the spring drives the wedge-like cam back down to apply a holding force against the sensor and the window. Back pressure against the sensor or window can be absorbed to some extend by the spring to reduce the chance of damaging the window and/or sensor from impact.

Abstract: The main needle valve of an electrostatic atomizer has an opto-electronic sensor device with optical waveguides whose faces are opposite a reflecting element of a component moveable with the valve needle for potential-free switch position interrogations.

Abstract: A wave control circuit disclosed herein may be used to control the operation of various plumbing devices and appliances. The wave control circuit uses a sensor to sense presence of objects in the vicinity of the plumbing device and appliance using the wave control circuit and a control circuit to control the operation of the plumbing device or appliance.