Having Means To Produce Digital Pulses Patents (Class 251/129.05)
  • Patent number: 12247960
    Abstract: A supercritical fluid separation apparatus performs feedback control of output of a heater so that a separation part temperature becomes a set temperature, based on both output of a first temperature sensor that measures a heating block temperature and output of a second temperature sensor that measures the separation part temperature. When a difference between the separation part temperature and the set temperature is large (equal to or more than a predetermined value), output of the heater is adjusted based on the heating block temperature. When a difference between the separation part temperature and the set temperature becomes small (less than a predetermined value), the output of the heater is adjusted based on the difference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2025
    Assignee: SHIMADZU CORPORATION
    Inventor: Michiaki Owa
  • Patent number: 12187099
    Abstract: Air conditioning temperature measurement device for use with a valve actuated refrigerant recharge assembly operates in conjunction with a pressurized refrigerant bottle and a-remote temperature sensor enabled by radio frequency (RF) wireless communication. Sampled temperatures at an output vent of an air-conditioned cabin and rate of temperature change at the inlet modulate recharge of refrigerant into low pressure side of a phase change A/C control system. Automated sensing of the rate of temperature change in an air conditioner outlet vent, and modulation of refrigerant refill rate, ensure sufficient refrigerant is introduced to improve cooling efficiency while overfill is prevented by refrigerant valve control as rate of temperature change approaches a parabolic minimum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2023
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2025
    Assignee: Pacific Link, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Alexander M. Kuo, Bruce Riggs
  • Patent number: 12161228
    Abstract: A method for inflating or deflating an air mattress chamber, includes: receiving a user input; inflating or deflating the air mattress chamber; obtaining pressure measurements corresponding to the air mattress chamber; determining first and second constants corresponding to inflation and deflation of the air mattress chamber; comparing a dynamically-obtained static pressure value to a threshold value; and presenting the dynamically-obtained static pressure value to a user on a display of a user remote. Methods for calculating and updating the first and second constants. A method for performing an offset measurement and latency qualification. A method for controlling an inflate operation of air mattress chamber based on a predetermined motor speed corresponding to a mode of operation. A method of controlling the deflation an air mattress chamber utilizing first and second stage exhaust ports to control an exhaust.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2024
    Assignee: AMERICAN NATIONAL MANUFACTURING, INC.
    Inventors: David Delory Driscoll, James A. Rodrian
  • Patent number: 12152610
    Abstract: A method is for operating a valve that includes a linearly movable control slide, at least one solenoid, and a position sensor. The linearly movable control slide is preloaded by at least one spring in a direction of a zero position. The at least one solenoid is coupled to the control slide in such a way that the control slide can be moved away from the zero position by application of current to the solenoid. The position sensor is configured to measure an actual instantaneous position of the control slide. Each solenoid is assigned a current control device configured to influence a current through the relevant solenoid based on an instantaneous current control variable. The instantaneous current control variable is dependent on a quasi-periodic dither current control variable. The method also includes calculating an actual dither amplitude from the actual instantaneous position using a band-pass filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2024
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Ingo Kallfass, Steffen Knapper, Reiner Kunz
  • Patent number: 12151537
    Abstract: A thermal management system control method for a vehicle is disclosed. An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a thermal management system control method for a vehicle, including: (A) a process in which a controller determines whether a track driving mode is selected based on data detected from a data detector before track driving of the vehicle, and determines an alignment position of a valve; (B) a process in which the controller, through the process (A), determines the alignment position of the valve to control a water pump or an oil pump, and operates an air conditioner; and (C) a process in which, when the air conditioner is operated through the process (B), the controller controls a battery chiller expansion valve and a compressor, and ends the control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2024
    Assignees: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jae Yeon Kim, Su Whan Kim, Jeawan Kim, SeungRyeol Lee, Yeonho Kim
  • Patent number: 12104704
    Abstract: A valve including a valve seat assembly that includes a first valve seat sealing member positioned between a first valve seat retaining ring and a first radially inwardly extending flange that extends from an inner surface of a hollow valve retainer, and a second valve seat sealing member positioned between a second valve seat retaining ring and a second radially inwardly extending flange that extends from the inner surface of the hollow valve retainer. A valve member is configured to engage and disengage with the first and second valve seat sealing members to permit fluid to travel from a fluid inlet to a fluid outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2024
    Assignee: MAC Valves, Inc.
    Inventor: Brett Landacre
  • Patent number: 12053096
    Abstract: A foundation for a bed system can include a foundation structure having a head, a foot, a first side, and a second side. An air pump configured for supplying air to and inflating at least one mattress air chamber can be housed within the foundation structure proximate the foot of the foundation structure. A control box and a central power hub can be housed within the foundation structure. The central power hub can be electrically connected to and configured to deliver electrical power to each of the air pump, the control box, and one or more additional electrical components. The foundation can optionally integrate other components into the foundation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2024
    Assignee: Sleep Number Corporation
    Inventors: Wade Daniel Palashewski, Kody Karshnik, Saurabh Chhaparwal, Samuel Hellfeld, John Klesk, John McGuire, Jeff Ingham, Eric Rose, Robert Erko, Bruce William Gaunt
  • Patent number: 11937705
    Abstract: An air system for use in an air bed system can include a manifold and one or more valves. The manifold can define a an inlet, an outlet, and a vent fluidically connected to atmosphere. A method of operating an air bed system can include deflating an air chamber through the vent in a first valve configuration and through the vent and an exhaust port in a second valve configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Assignee: Sleep Number Corporation
    Inventor: Anthony John Shakal
  • Patent number: 11910930
    Abstract: An airbed with an air pump is provided. A main inflatable cavity is arranged inside an airbed body of the airbed, the top edge of the main inflatable cavity is surrounded by an upper inflatable cavity, and the bottom edge of the main inflatable cavity is surrounded by a lower inflatable cavity. The main inflatable cavity, the upper inflatable cavity and the lower inflatable cavity are isolated from each other. After the upper inflatable cavity and the lower inflatable cavity are completely filled, the upper and lower edges of the main inflatable cavity can be propped up, so that the whole airbed has a stable shape and excellent support. In addition, since the three set inflatable cavities are independent of each other, the other two inflatable cavities can still play a supporting role even if one of the three inflatable cavities is damaged and leaking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: DONGGUAN HONGYU PLASTIC RUBBER CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Juying Shi
  • Patent number: 11913396
    Abstract: A method for heating a catalytic converter includes a) switching on a compressor; b) at least partially opening an injection valve; c) setting a combustion-air/fuel ratio of ?<1 in combustion chambers; d) detecting an actual value of the oxygen content in the exhaust gas; and e) comparing the actual value with a target value, where the target value corresponds to an exhaust-gas oxygen content that would be set in a region of the catalytic converter if the combustion-air/fuel ratio in the combustion chambers is approximately ?=1, where a manipulated variable output by a controller on a basis of a deviation of the actual value from the target value is kept constant when the actual value reaches one of two limit values of a value range within which the target value is ranged, and where the two limit values deviate from the target value by approximately 3%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: Mercedes-Benz Group AG
    Inventors: Andreas Schaible, Andreas Schober, Hans-Georg Lehmann, Markus Schilling
  • Patent number: 11897751
    Abstract: A cartridge valve (22, 94) and system (10) are provided in which the cartridge valve (22, 94) includes a regulator (44, 96) a flow ring (67), and a solenoid (42, 100) which may have an adjustable stroke to facilitate stable flow control. Also, the cartridge valve (22, 94) includes a quick and easy installation and removal fitting (30 and 32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Lancer Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Louis Robinson, Brandon Ojeda
  • Patent number: 11879448
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to an electromagnetic actuator for actuating a valve of a piston compressor. Power electronics of the actuator are arranged in an actuator housing between a coil and an axial actuator end of the actuator, on which an actuation opening for an actuation element is provided, wherein the power electronics are separated from the coil by a housing wall of the actuator housing, wherein a printed circuit board of the power electronics is arranged on a fastening surface provided on the housing wall, wherein electrical coil contacts of the coil extend through the housing wall and are connected to the printed circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignee: Hoerbiger Wien GmbH
    Inventors: Gernot Bischelmeier, Matthias Kornfeld, Bernhard Spiegl
  • Patent number: 11781389
    Abstract: A bottom hole assembly has a tubular component with an axis, a first axial end, a second axial end and a poppet valve assembly mounted in the second axial end. An orifice retainer is mounted inside the tubular component adjacent the first axial end. The orifice retainer has a retainer first axial end, a retainer second axial end opposite the retainer first axial end and an orifice pocket adjacent the retainer second axial end. The orifice retainer is installed in and can be removed from the first axial end of the tubular component, opposite the poppet valve assembly. In addition, an orifice is mounted in the orifice pocket of the orifice retainer. The orifice operates in conjunction with the poppet valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignees: ERDOS MILLER, INC., BLACK DIAMOND OILFIELD RENTALS, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth C. Miller, David Cramer, Steven Paul Howard
  • Patent number: 11692622
    Abstract: A transmission includes a gearing arrangement configured to shift speed ratios by disengaging an off-going shift element and engaging an oncoming shift element and an electrohydraulic valve having an actuatable valve element configured to control an engagement state of the oncoming shift element. A controller is programmed to, during a shift of the transmission, in response to the off-going shift element disengaging and an expected ratio change not initiating, monotonically increase current to the valve to a maximum value to overcome frictional resistance on the valve element, and programmed to, in response to expiration of a timer and the ratio change still not initiating, send a repeating pattern of high and low current signals according to a duty cycle to overcome frictional resistance of the valve element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Derek Kinch, Joseph Scott Slayton, Stephen Michael Cicala, Bradley D Riedle, Richard Reynolds Hathaway
  • Patent number: 11638928
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling a needle motion of a material applicator are disclosed. The system includes an actuator assembly that contains a piezoelectric device, where the actuator assembly is connected to a needle and translates the needle along a vertical direction, and a sensor assembly that includes an emitter for emitting light, where a portion of the actuator assembly occludes a portion of the light. The sensor assembly also includes a receiver for receiving a non-occluded portion of the light and a sensor holder that secures the emitter and the receiver. The system further includes a controller in electrical communication with the piezoelectric device, emitter, and receiver, where the controller adjusts operation of the actuator assembly based on feedback received from the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2023
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Aaron Gould, Brandon D. Conner
  • Patent number: 11472697
    Abstract: MEMS devices include fluid confinement structures on either a fixed part of a substrate and/or on a suspended element. The fluid confinement structures may be configured to confine a viscoelastic fluid in a limited part of a gap between one or more vertical sidewalls of both the fixed part of the substrate and either the suspended element or the drive beam or both the suspended element and drive beam such that one part of the gap is bridged by the fluid and another part of the gap is not, The structures may be configured to prevent flow of the fluid to other parts of the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Assignee: MIRRORCLE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Stefan Richter, Johannes Kindt, Veljko Milanovic
  • Patent number: 11384702
    Abstract: A variable combustion cylinder ratio control device includes a target ratio setting section and a pattern determining section. The pattern determining section determines a target deactivation interval as a subsequent deactivation interval when the difference between a current deactivation interval and the target deactivation interval is less than or equal to X cylinders, and determines, as the subsequent deactivation interval, an interval closer to the target deactivation interval than the current deactivation interval by X cylinders when the difference between the current deactivation interval and the target deactivation interval exceeds X cylinders. The value of X is a natural number and a variable value that varies in accordance with the operating state of the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Tomohiro Nakano
  • Patent number: 11293555
    Abstract: A solenoid valve including: a valve housing; a solenoid; a first plunger configured to be selectively moved rectilinearly by the solenoid; a first valve member connected to the first plunger and configured to selectively open or close a first outlet flow path in accordance with the movement of the first plunger; a first spring member configured to provide elastic force to move the first valve member to close the first outlet flow path; a second plunger provided to be rectilinearly movable in the first plunger and configured to be selectively moved rectilinearly by the solenoid; a second valve member connected to the second plunger and configured to selectively open or close a second outlet flow path in accordance with the movement of the second plunger; and a second spring member configured to provide elastic force to move the second valve member to close the second outlet flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Assignees: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
    Inventor: In Tae Park
  • Patent number: 11187346
    Abstract: A control device for a valve device can detect open/close state of the valve device without using limit switches. The valve device includes a diaphragm for opening and closing a flow path for flowing a fluid, a coil spring for biasing the diaphragm in the closing direction of flow path, a main actuator for driving it against the biasing force of the coil spring, and an adjusting actuator using a piezoelectric element for adjusting the opening degree of the flow path determined by the diaphragm. The controller detects the open/close state of flow path based on the voltage generated by the piezoelectric element of the adjusting actuator, and controls valve device using the detection signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: FUJIKIN INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Masahiko Takimoto, Toshihide Yoshida, Kenta Kondo, Ryousuke Dohi, Kouji Nishino
  • Patent number: 10982792
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an electrically operated valve capable of more accurately detecting the position of a valve body. In order to achieve the above object, the electrically operated valve of the present invention comprises a valve body, a driver configured to move the valve body along a first axis, a rotation shaft configured to rotate the driver around the first axis, a permanent magnet member, and an angle sensor. The permanent magnet member is disposed on the rotation shaft and configured to rotate with the rotation shaft. The angle sensor is configured to detect a rotation angle of a permanent magnet included in the permanent magnet member. The angle sensor is disposed above the permanent magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: FUJIKOKI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Satoshi Uehara, Yusuke Arai, Takeshi Hosoya
  • Patent number: 10968872
    Abstract: An exhaust gas recirculation valve warming device includes an exhaust throttle arranged in an exhaust passage, an exhaust gas recirculation passage that extends from a portion of the exhaust passage that is upstream of the exhaust throttle and is connected to an intake passage, an exhaust gas recirculation valve arranged in the exhaust gas recirculation passage, and a branch passage that extends from a portion of the exhaust gas recirculation passage that is upstream of the exhaust gas recirculation valve in a direction in which exhaust gas flows, in which the branch passage is connected to a portion of the exhaust passage that is downstream of the exhaust throttle. The exhaust gas recirculation valve includes a valve passage that forms part of the exhaust gas recirculation passage and a warming passage that forms part of the branch passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Keishi Nanno, Koichi Nishitani
  • Patent number: 10927898
    Abstract: A combination shaft including a first shaft including an axial protrusion including a first circumferential surface defining a first outer diameter and a second circumferential surface defining a second outer diameter, and a second shaft having a cavity therein configured to receive at least a portion of the first shaft and being configured to drive an air valve, having internal threads, and defining at least a first inner radial surface having a first inner diameter and a second inner radial surface having second inner diameter, the internal threads being engagable with the external threads to prevent axial movement between the first shaft and the second shaft and the first inner radial surface being engagable with the first outer radial surface and the second inner radial surface being engagable with the second outer radial surface to provide radial centering of the first shaft to the second shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Francis P. Marocchini, Glenn Gradischer
  • Patent number: 10876648
    Abstract: A solenoid valve includes a housing, a bobbin and an armature. The bobbin is received at least partially within the housing and has and internal passage and a body about which a coil is provided. The armature is moveable relative to a valve seat and the valve includes an armature stop received in the internal passage with a press-fit so that it is engaged by the armature in one position of the armature to limit movement of the armature away from the valve seat. The valve also has a biasing member located at least partially between the armature and the armature stop, the armature has a reduced diameter portion received at least partially within the biasing member, and wherein the reduced diameter portion engages the armature stop in the open position of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: Walbro LLC
    Inventors: Dale P. Kus, David L. Thomas
  • Patent number: 10571875
    Abstract: To provide an electric valve control device capable of preventing a delay at the time of starting a control of an electric valve by shortening a standby time of an air conditioner or the like when power is input again or a sleep mode is cancelled and an electric valve device including the same. After receiving a power-off signal predicting a power-off operation of an electric valve 9 or a sleep transition signal predicting a sleep mode transition operation thereof from an outside, (current) valve opening degree information at the time of stopping an operation of the electric valve 9 is stored in an EEPROM (a nonvolatile storage unit) 11c. At the time of inputting power again or cancelling a sleep mode, the current (immediately precedent) valve opening degree information stored in the EEPROM 11c is read from the EEPROM 11c to resume a control of the electric valve 9.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: FUJIKOKI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshio Ogawa, Akihiro Hayashi, Kiyoharu Satou
  • Patent number: 10371277
    Abstract: An electric solenoid valve, methods for operating and/or actuating the solenoid valve, valve system diagnostics, and applications for use are described. The valve may be designed to actuate in a manner so as to control liquid flow into and/or through a device, such as a spray nozzle. By altering the characteristics of the electrical signal transmitted to the solenoid valve, the instantaneous pressure across the valve and duration of fluid flow through the valve can be controlled with a single actuator. Controlled cyclic durations of flow may be implemented to regulate the exact timing of flow through the valve. Alternatively, cyclic durations may occur with a pulse-width modulation technique in which the duty cycle regulates average flow rate through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: Capstan Ag Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Duane Needham, Andrew J. Holtz
  • Patent number: 10371275
    Abstract: Actuator for actuating a valve device comprising an electric drive (14) being operatively engaged to an actuating element (1) of the valve device, the electric drive (14) comprising at least one torque motor (2) which drives a hollow shaft (3) as an internal rotor, that positions a threaded drive (4) having a screw nut (6) and a threaded spindle (5) for converting the rotational movement of the hollow shaft (3) into a translational movement of the threaded spindle (5), and the threaded spindle (5) acts upon the actuating element (1) for displacing the same, wherein the threaded drive (4) comprises an inverted roller screw (4.1), and the screw nut (6) of the inverted roller screw (4.1) houses the threaded spindle (5) as a push rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: ONESUBSEA IP UK LIMITED
    Inventor: Norbert Lenz
  • Patent number: 10352607
    Abstract: A method for controlling a vapor compression system, in particular an opening degree of an expansion valve. According to a first control strategy, the expansion valve is closed until the superheat value has increased above a lower threshold superheat value. According to a second control strategy, the expansion valve is kept open until the suction pressure has increased above a lower threshold suction pressure value. In the case of low superheat value as well as low suction pressure, the second control strategy is selected for a limited period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: Danfoss A/S
    Inventors: Junping Cai, Hans Jørgen Jensen, Lars Jensen
  • Patent number: 10352475
    Abstract: The invention provides an electrically operated valve which can more accurately detect a position of a valve body. An electrically operated valve is provided with a valve shaft, a valve body, a rotor member which is movable together with the valve shaft in a parallel direction to a first direction, a stator member which applies a turning force to the rotor member, a permanent magnet member which turns together with the rotor member, an angle sensor which detects an angle of rotation of the permanent magnet, and a guide member which guides a relative movement of the rotor member or the valve shaft in relation to the permanent magnet member. A distance between the permanent magnet and the angle sensor is fixed when the permanent magnet member turns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: FUJIKOKI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Satoshi Uehara, Bunta Narukawa
  • Patent number: 10294825
    Abstract: The invention relates to a waste-heat utilization assembly (1) of an internal combustion engine (50), comprising a circuit (2) that conducts a working medium, wherein a pump (6), a distribution valve block (7), two evaporators (10, 11), an expansion machine (3), and a condenser (4) are arranged in the circuit (2) in the flow direction of the working medium. The two evaporators (10, 11) are arranged in a parallel connection, and the parallel connection begins at the distribution valve block (7) and ends at a node point (8). A temperature sensor (21) for determining the outlet temperature of the working medium at the expansion machine (3) is arranged between the expansion machine (3) and the condenser (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Heber, Manfred Schmitt, Mathias Kurras
  • Patent number: 10197187
    Abstract: A fluid control valve includes a valve-side housing and an actuator-side housing. The valve-side housing includes a first facing plane portion that faces a second facing plane portion of the actuator-side housing and a first connection portion arranged at an outer side region of the first facing plane portion. The actuator-side housing includes the second facing plane portion and a second connection portion arranged at an outer side region of the second facing plane portion. The valve-side housing and the actuator-side housing are connected to each other via the first connection portion and the second connection portion such that a space is provided between the first facing plane portion and the second facing plane portion. The first facing plane portion of the valve-side housing includes a depression portion that is recessed in a direction away from the second facing plane portion of the actuator-side housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Satoru Hasegawa, Katsunori Takai, Naoki Ihana
  • Patent number: 10058879
    Abstract: Spray systems and control systems for use with spray systems are provided. A method of detecting fluid flow through a nozzle coupled in fluid communication with a solenoid valve including a solenoid coil and a poppet is provided. The method generally includes (1) dispensing fluid through the solenoid valve and the nozzle, (2) de-energizing the solenoid coil to close the solenoid valve and control a fluid flow through the nozzle, (3) determining a closing time of the solenoid valve based on a signal from a poppet measuring device, and (4) determining a fluid flow value based on a time delay between the de-energizing the solenoid coil and the closing time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: Capstan Ag Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Duane Needham
  • Patent number: 9993762
    Abstract: A relatively quiet pulse valve and a method of using the pulse valve are provided. The pulse valve includes a dampening mechanism to decrease mechanical stresses, decrease operating noise, decrease compressed air waste and increase operational life expectancy of the valve. Such dampening mechanism is arranged within an internal area of the pulse valve housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: General Electric Technology GmbH
    Inventor: Per-Erik Albert Appelo
  • Patent number: 9951722
    Abstract: A chamber for reducing operating noise of a purge control solenoid valve (PCSV) for an evaporative emission control system comprises a first housing into which operating noise of the PCSV enters. The first housing has an inner space to change a cross sectional area of an operating noise path or an operating noise transfer direction at least once. A second housing has an upper portion coupled to a lower portion of the first housing to transfer the operating noise outside. At least one end of the chamber in a length direction thereof is connected with a vapor hose which connects a canister collecting fuel evaporation gas generated from a fuel tank with the PCSV to deliver the fuel evaporation gas to an engine and through which the fuel evaporation gas flows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: YoungMin Kim
  • Patent number: 9914414
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for estimating a fluid level in a reservoir disposed in a vehicle compartment having a compartment cover. The method includes monitoring at least one operational parameter relating to the reservoir, monitoring a state of the compartment cover using a sensing device, detecting a triggering event based on the at least one operational parameter, the state of the compartment cover, or both, and in response to the triggering event, determining an estimate for an amount of fluid in the reservoir based on data related to the triggering event, and initiating a notification to a vehicle occupant when the estimated amount of fluid in the reservoir is less than or equal to a low level threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Daniel P. Carlesimo, Marcelo V. Lazarini
  • Patent number: 9890681
    Abstract: A heat exchange device includes a thermoactuator that controls a valve to open and close one or the other of two fluid passageways. The thermoactuator includes a temperature-sensitive portion arranged to slidably advance a rod that actuates the valve as the temperature sensed by the temperature-sensitive portion increases. A stopper is positioned to abut the rod to limit advancement of the rod to thereby limit the degree of opening of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: YUTAKA GIKEN CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Toru Hisanaga, Tomoyuki Uchida, Teruaki Hyodo
  • Patent number: 9759121
    Abstract: An electronic thermostat control system may include a control duty determination portion outputting PWM duty signal for controlling the coolant temperature according to a coolant temperature, a rising rate of the coolant temperature, an engine speed, a load and a vehicle speed, a driving portion applying a time condition to the PWM duty signal output by the control duty determination portion for controlling outputting interval, and a fault diagnosis portion diagnosing operations of the electronic thermostat by analyzing the signals output by the driving portion and changes of the coolant temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignees: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA MOTORS CORPORATION, INZICONTROLS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Philgi Lee, Gyuhwan Kim, Jae Suk Park, Yong Jeong Kim
  • Patent number: 9714721
    Abstract: In an electromagnetic valve in which a valve body unit is housed in a housing, the unit has a plunger including a groove portion at its cylindrical outer peripheral face. The groove portion extends in the cylinder axis direction and moves in the cylinder axis direction by an electromagnetic force generated by an electromagnetic coil. A rod is secured to the plunger and abuts against a valve seat for opening and closing the valve when the plunger is moved to close the valve and releasing the abutment of the rod against the seat when the plunger is moved to open the valve. A cylindrical sleeve covers the outer peripheral face of the plunger and is configured integrally with the plunger. A communication passage defined by the groove portion of the plunger and the inner peripheral face of the sleeve extends in the cylinder axis direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Masaki Nanahara, Kei Sato, Takeshi Ishida
  • Patent number: 9701288
    Abstract: A hydraulic brake system is configured such that a pressure of a working fluid from a high-pressure-source device is adjusted by electromagnetic pressure-increase and pressure-decrease linear valves and such that a brake device generates a braking force having a magnitude that depends on the pressure adjusted by the linear valves, wherein the following controls are selectively executable, as a control of the energizing currents supplied to the linear valves, a feedback control based on a difference between an actual braking-force index and a target braking-force index; and a feedforward control based on the target braking-force index executed by placing each valve in a valve equilibrium state, wherein, in the feedforward control, an energizing current is supplied to at least one of the two linear valves, the energizing current being larger than that according to a preset relationship between a braking-force index and an energizing current in the valve equilibrium state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignees: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA, ADVICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takahiro Okano, Yusuke Kamiya, Kiyohito Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 9644760
    Abstract: A damping valve includes a valve seat member, a valve body, a back-pressure chamber, a pilot passage, and a pilot valve, wherein the pilot valve has a pilot valve seat member and a pilot valve body, the pilot valve seat member having an cylindrical valve container provided with a penetrating hole connecting the inside and the outside, the penetrating hole communicating with the port, and an annular pilot valve seat provided in an end of the valve container, and the pilot valve body having a large diameter portion, a small diameter portion slidably inserted into the valve container, and a concave portion provided between the large diameter portion and the small diameter portion to face the penetrating hole, and an end of the large diameter portion is seated on or unseated from the pilot valve seat to open or close the pilot passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: KYB Corporation
    Inventors: Toshihiro Mori, Ryosuke Kamakura, Shinichi Hagidaira
  • Patent number: 9599183
    Abstract: A damping valve includes a valve seat member having a port and a first valve seat surrounding the port, a main valve body seated on or unseated from the first valve seat, the main valve body having a second valve seat oppositely to the valve seat member, a subsidiary valve body seated on or unseated from the second valve seat, a valve-body intermediate chamber provided between the main valve body and the subsidiary valve body in an inner circumferential side of the second valve seat, a restrictive passage that causes the port and the valve-body intermediate chamber to communicate with each other, the restrictive passage being configured to apply resistance to a flow of fluid passing therethrough, and a subsidiary valve body biasing means configured to bias the subsidiary valve body toward the main valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: KYB Corporation
    Inventors: Ryosuke Kamakura, Toshihiro Mori, Tomoyasu Abe
  • Patent number: 9027587
    Abstract: In a method for operating a fluid valve for controlling or regulating a fluid, having at least one movable valve component is displaceable with the aid of at least one electrical actuating signal which contains at least one first actuating signal portion which causes an oscillating valve motion of the valve component. Pressure oscillations generated in the fluid due to the oscillating valve motion are detected, and are used for regulation of the oscillating valve motion caused by the first actuating signal portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Juergen Hessenauer, Ulrich Foerch, Manfred Schmitt, Steffen Schumacher, Nicole Weber, Oliver Schell, Christof Ott
  • Patent number: 8893673
    Abstract: A tubular valve for adjusting the compression ratio of a variable compression ratio engine includes a straight tube capable of longitudinal translational movement in a valve casing including a low-pressure chamber, the straight tube including a first end opening into the low-pressure chamber and a second end opening into a high-pressure chamber, the second end adapted to contact with at least one shut-off surface secured to the valve casing to seal the second end, the straight tube contacting the shut-off surface by at least one nonreturn and shut-off spring; sealing element for sealing between the external surface of the straight tube and the valve casing isolating the high-pressure chamber from the low-pressure chamber, the sealing element including a nonreturn tube inside which the straight tube is held; and an electric actuator for applying to the straight tube a force opposing that of the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Vianney Rabhi
  • Publication number: 20140209825
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventors: JONATHAN S. FICK, ANDREW P. SARGENT, JEFFREY N. SEWARD
  • Patent number: 8740182
    Abstract: Improving the accuracy of the flow rate of a valve in a fluidic delivery device in which a desired flow rate may be achieved by varying the duty cycle of the valve. The flow rate of fluid delivery from the valve over its lifetime is stabilized by minimizing the voltage OPENING time of the valve to account for valve and piezoelectric actuator drift. Also, the valve OPENING time of one or more fluidic parameters that impact on the flow rate delivery by the valve and differ among fluidic delivery devices is compensated to optimize the flow rate accuracy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Codman Neuro Sciences Sárl
    Inventors: Rocco Crivelli, Alec Ginggen, Toralf Bork
  • Patent number: 8701703
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Sensus USA Inc.
    Inventors: Tim Scott, Dirk Steckmann, Daniel W. Peace, Doug Vargas
  • Publication number: 20130320250
    Abstract: Improvements in an electronic valve control system is disclosed where the valve is a spring diaphragm irrigation control valve where the flow rate is controlled with pulsed signal to a control solenoid. This device functions as hydraulic amplifier where the input signal is characterized by the duty cycle ratio of the applied electrical signal, and the output is the flow rate through the irrigation valve. The pilot path of the solenoid on the valve is rapidly alternated between enabled and disable states. This is achieved by installing an electrically actuated valve at some point along pilot path. The electrical signal to this valve is rapidly pulsed. This causes the irrigation valve to be held in a partially opened state. The duty cycle of the pulse signal controls the flow rate of water through the irrigation valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: Daniel GRAHAM, Geza KISCH, Thomas CARR
  • Patent number: 8596609
    Abstract: The invention relates to a solenoid valve with a magnet assembly and a valve cartridge having a pole core, a valve insert connected to the pole core, an armature which is guided within the valve insert in an axially movable manner between a closed position and an open position and is coupled to a closing element, and a valve body which is connected to the valve insert and has a main valve seat which is arranged between at least one first flow opening and a second flow opening. The axially movable armature, when the magnet assembly is energized, is moved by a generated magnetic force within the valve insert in the direction of the pole core counter to a spring force of a resetting spring and counter to a fluid force in order to lift the closing element out of the main valve seat; and to permit a flow of fluid between the at least one first flow opening and the second flow opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Klaus Heyer, Massimiliano Ambrosi, Michael Eisenlauer, Michael Rietsche, Michael Tischer, Stephan Steingass, Michael Hilden
  • Patent number: 8544818
    Abstract: An electronic adapter and a method for controlling a bistable valve for liquid or gaseous media is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Diener Precision Pumps Ltd
    Inventor: Raimond Walter
  • Publication number: 20130248742
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a digital control method for a hydraulic ON/OFF valve. The ON/OFF valve is controlled by a digital control signal. The digital control signal has a number of successive cycles. Each cycle of the number of successive cycles has a pulse lasting a variable pulse period and a pause lasting a variable pause period. The pause period (tp) of each cycle is set taking into account the time when the ON/OFF valve reaches the OFF state after the pulse of the cycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Ingo Schepers, Daniel Weiler
  • Patent number: 8540209
    Abstract: A flow modulation valve has a slidably translating hollow armature with at least one energizable coil wound around and fixably attached to the hollow armature. The energizable coil or coils are influenced by at least one permanent magnet surrounding the hollow armature and supported by an outer casing. Lorentz forces on the energizable coils which are translated to the hollow armature, increase or decrease the flow area to provide flow throttling action. The extent of hollow armature translation depends on the value of current supplied and the direction of translation depends on the direction of current flow. The compact nature of the flow modulation valve combined with the high forces afforded by the actuator design provide a flow modulation valve which is highly responsive to high-rate input control signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: University of Pittsburgh—Of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: John Peter Hensel, Nathaniel Black, Jimmy Dean Thorton, Jeffrey Stuart Vipperman, David N. Lambeth, William W. Clark