Motion Opposed By Valve Spring Patents (Class 251/149.6)
  • Patent number: 7306198
    Abstract: A male luer connector device that attaches to any standard female luer valve to open a flow channel between the two luers. The male luer is comprised of a tubular housing element, a resilient member contained within the housing and extending within an inner tubular portion defined in the housing, a resilient member that extends within the inner tubular portion of the housing, and a valve member attached to the resilient member that seals the tubular portion. When the male luer is engaged with any standard female luer, a female luer connector device drives the resilient member of the male luer into a compressed position to open the forward end of the male luer and permit liquid flow between the luers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark C. Doyle
  • Patent number: 7306199
    Abstract: A needle free medical connector includes a housing with a first port and a second port. The connector also includes a piston element defining a fluid passageway between the first and second ports. The piston element is movable between flow and non-flow positions. The piston element has a compressible section having a variable inner width that forms a part of the flow path through the connector. As the piston is compressed to the flow position, the compressible section self-expands in width thereby maintaining or increasing the volume of the fluid passageway through the connector. The compressible section has a configuration permitting the continuous flow of fluid through its entirety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.
    Inventors: Karl R. Leinsing, Theodore J. Mosler
  • Patent number: 7306197
    Abstract: A description is given of a connecting device for tubes for medical use having a connection element (7) comprising a main body designed to be attachable to the end of a first tube, and a shut-off element made of an elastically deformable material and at least partly housed inside the main body, to allow or prevent, as required, fluid communication through the main body. The shut-off element has a longitudinal axis of symmetry and is designed to deform symmetrically. Also described are a tube and a peritoneal dialysis line using the connection element described above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: Gambro Lundia AB
    Inventors: Andrea Parrino, Guido Colli
  • Patent number: 7299823
    Abstract: A connector (1) connects an air-inflatable mattress (4) which alternately inflatable cells (11, 12) to a pump. Air-supply lines (13, 14) from the pump are attached to male parts (2) of connector (1). Air-supply lines (15, 16) from mattress (4) connect to passages (17, 18) of female parts (3) of the connector (1). When the male parts (2) and the female parts (3) are engaged, supply lines (13, 14) are in fluid communication with fluid lines (15, 16) via passages (17, 18) in the female part (3). When the male parts (2) are removed from the connector (1) to disconnect the air supply, one-way valves (7) seal the air-supply lines (13, 14) and expose a cross-connect port (8) in interconnecting the female part passages (17, 18). Thus cells (11, 12) are interconnected and the pressure is equalized throughout the mattress (4). The invention provides a self-sealing automatic transport mode connection system upon disengagement of the male parts (2) from the mattress (4), thus eliminating user error.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Huntleigh Technology Limited
    Inventor: Anthony George Smith
  • Patent number: 7296782
    Abstract: A valve comprising an inlet housing, an outlet housing, an elastomeric valve element having a generally dome-shaped configuration with a central integral stem positioned substantially concentrically therewith, the inlet housing and outlet housing being fastened together at a joint with the elastomeric valve element positioned therein and the valve element including a plurality of longitudinal ribs formed along an outer annular periphery of a lower end of the dome-shaped configuration that define flow channels that allow fluid flow from across an upper surface of the dome-shaped configuration through the flow channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Halkey-Roberts Corporation
    Inventors: Jon R. Enerson, Gregory S. Jordan, Pavel T. Miller
  • Patent number: 7293758
    Abstract: A pipe connector includes a casing, a valve block mounted in the first end of the casing and movable between a close position and an open position and normally supported in the close position by a spring inside the casing, a locking block holder mounted in the second end of the casing and movable between a locking position and an unlocking position and normally supported in the locking position by a spring inside the casing, and locking blocks transversely mounted in the locking block holder and movable with the locking block holder along a tapered inside all portion of the casing to lock/unlock a pipe that is inserted into the locking block holder to move the valve block to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: Lai Chang Hsueh-Feng
  • Patent number: 7275563
    Abstract: A connection for flow of a fluid, comprising first and second bodies, female and male connection elements that are respectively pivoted on the first and second bodies and hollow and complementary such that the male connection element may be seated within the female connection element, and wherein an angle of pivoting of each of the male and female elements is limited relative to a median position thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Staubli Faverges
    Inventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Christophe Durieux
  • Publication number: 20070170388
    Abstract: An oil pan (1) provided with a drain mechanism (10) in which an adjustable valve body (11) is disposed in a drain opening (13) in the oil pan wall and is adjustable between a closed position and an open position. A sealing member (12) made of a flexible material is arranged on the valve body (11) of the drain mechanism (10) for closing the drain opening (13) in the oil pan wall when the valve body is in the closed position. The valve body (11) is secured by a closing element on the wall of the oil pan (1) when in the closed position, and the sealing member (12) is held in the closed position by the closing element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Publication date: July 26, 2007
    Applicant: MANN & HUMMEL GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Jessberger
  • Patent number: 7213611
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes a body having a bore and a valve received within the bore for movement between an open position and a closed position. First and second sealing members are secured for movement with the valve and are positioned between the valve and the body such that an internal fluid pressure within the bore is applied to a first side of the sealing members and a common reference pressure is applied to a second side. An axial force imparted on the valve adjacent the second sealing member is less than an axial force imparted on the valve adjacent the first sealing member. A resiliently compressible member is positioned to bias the valve toward the normally open position. The valve is moved to the closed position when the internal fluid pressure exceeds a predetermined pressure and returns to the open position when the internal fluid pressure is substantially less than the predetermined pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: William Thomas Flynn
  • Patent number: 7213616
    Abstract: A diversion valve fluid coupling, permitting alternate flows in first and second operating positions, including a valve housing with inlet, first and second outlet ports; a quick disconnect coupling attached to the second outlet port and a seal interposed therebetween; a movable diverter valve assembly, having interconnected actuating and opposing valves; the actuating valve, in the first operating position, having a first sealing engagement with the seal; the opposing valve, in the second operating position, having a second sealing engagement with a first outlet port; a biasing member, biasing the diverter valve into the first sealing engagement, blocking the second outlet port while permitting flow to the first outlet port; and, for the second operating position, a nipple member, removably mating with the quick disconnect coupling and translating the diverter valve into the second sealing engagement, blocking the first outlet port while permitting flow into the second outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin
    Inventors: Charles Dean Wuollet, Shawn David Ellis, Paul Edward LeMay, Brian Keith Foner
  • Patent number: 7198079
    Abstract: A gas mask liquid delivery system including a gas mask having a liquid inlet port. A liquid control adapter having a body with a first end with an outlet opening formed therein, a second end with an inlet opening formed therein, and an interior chamber formed within the body. An inlet chamber extends from the inlet opening to the interior chamber and an outlet chamber extends from the outlet opening to the interior chamber. The inlet and outlet openings, inlet, interior, and outlet chambers, define a flow path when placed in open communication with each other to permit liquid to flow through the flow path. A stopper controls the flow of the liquid through the flow path. The outlet opening connects the adapter to the liquid inlet port. A flow tube connects a liquid source to a connector, wherein the inlet opening of the adapter is connected to the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: TVI Corporation
    Inventor: Dale Kline
  • Patent number: 7195228
    Abstract: A female element of a quick connection provided with a closure valve, wherein the opening of the valve is controlled by a reaction force exerted by an O-ring disposed in an inner housing of a body of a male connection element adapted to be fitted in the female element. The reaction force results from the abutment of the valve on the O-ring when the male and female elements are coupled together. Upon the failure of the O-ring, the valve is not displaced so that the risks of leakages are eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Staubli Faverges
    Inventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Antoine Chambaud
  • Patent number: 7191798
    Abstract: A fluid circuit connector system includes a quick-release connector for connecting a set of tubes to an object. The quick-release connector includes a release button, a lock arm, a lock tab and a cavity configured to receive the tubes and a set of coupler housings. The connector system includes an object fitting having lock recess may be configured to receive the lock tab. The object fitting includes a cavity. The system further includes a set of male coupler housings each including a first unitary valve and a set of female coupler housings each including a second unitary valve. Each female housing is configured to receive and engage one of the male coupler housings. The system includes a set of seals configured to seal each male coupler housing and each female coupler housing when the quick-release connector is connected to the object fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Vital Wear, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard Edelman, Howard R. Davidson
  • Patent number: 7185674
    Abstract: A fluid flow control valve is disclosed. This valve includes a housing which defines a central passageway having fluid inlet and fluid outlet openings. A pressure responsive element is disposed within the passageway for selectively opening and closing the inlet opening to fluid flow in response to pressure exerted thereon at the inlet opening. A mechanism is provided within the passageway for exerting a bias force against the pressure responsive element sufficient to close the inlet opening to fluid flow absent a pre-established level of pressure exerted on the pressure responsive element in opposition to the bias force. Finally, a retainer device is positioned for removably securing the pressure responsive element and bias force exerting mechanism within the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: Shane S. Taylor
  • Patent number: 7182313
    Abstract: A male luer connector device that attaches to any standard female luer valve to open a flow channel between the two luers. The male luer is comprised of a tubular housing element, a resilient member contained within the housing and extending within an inner tubular portion defined in the housing, a resilient member that extends within the inner tubular portion of the housing, and a valve member attached to the resilient member that seals the tubular portion. When the male luer is engaged with any standard female luer, a female luer connector device drives the resilient member of the male luer into a compressed position to open the forward end of the male luer and permit liquid flow between the luers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark C. Doyle
  • Patent number: 7178784
    Abstract: The present invention discloses, among other things, a valve assembly that includes a body, a valve, a biasing mechanism, and a guide. The body includes a shaped cavity and the valve includes an elongated portion and a shaped valve head that has an exterior surface portion that is configured to engage a portion of the shaped cavity. The guide includes a central axis and a centrally disposed opening that receives a portion of the valve and guides the movement of the valve through at least a segment of the valve's axial motion. The biasing mechanism, which may include a spring, biases the valve head in the direction of the shaped cavity. The invention further includes a method for making a valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: William T. Flynn
  • Patent number: 7163190
    Abstract: An undersea hydraulic coupling member having a seal retainer with a first inner ring and a second outer ring is disclosed. The first inner ring and second outer ring are concentric, at least part of the first inner ring inserted through the second outer ring. The second outer ring is threaded to the coupling member to provide sufficient torque to reduce or eliminate any gap between the seal retainer and the shoulder surface in the coupling member on which an elastomeric seal is positioned. Another elastomeric seal is held between the first inner ring and second outer ring of the seal retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: National Coupling Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Smith, III
  • Patent number: 7159616
    Abstract: A female hydraulic coupling member is disclosed which comprises a first flow port; a second flow port; a third flow port in fluid communication with both the first flow port and the second flow port; a first poppet valve for opening and closing the first flow port; and a second poppet valve for opening and closing the second flow port, the second poppet valve being connected to the first poppet valve such that the second poppet valve moves to the closed position when the first poppet valve is open and moves to the open position when the first poppet valve is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: National Coupling Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard R. Watson, Robert E. Smith, III
  • Patent number: 7156135
    Abstract: A quick-release connector structure for an air tank includes a connector body incorporated with an air tank and a seat block. The seat block is secured to the air tank and comprises a valve having a post extending forwardly. The valve is acting as a switch to turn the air tank on and off. The connector body comprises a first passage and a second passage. The first passage comprises an air release hole and a through hole. A thimble is disposed in the first passage. A quick-release wrench is provided in a recess disposed on the connector body. The quick-release wrench corresponds to the through hole and is secured by a fastener. By turning the quick-release wrench, the high-pressure air remaining in the pipe is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Sunworld Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hsin-Cheng Yeh
  • Patent number: 7150828
    Abstract: A drain structure for a fluid filter includes a cap internally forming a drain hole. The cap receives a valve member urged by an urging means in a direction, in which the valve member blocks the drain hole. Normally, the drain hole is blocked with a drain member. When fluid is drained from the drain hole, the drain member is removed from the drain hole, and a drain tool is inserted into the drain hole, so that the drain tool displaces the valve member in a direction, in which the drain hole is unblocked. The drain tool has a hooking portion that can hook to a hooked portion provided to the cap by axially rotating the drain tool inserted into the drain hole of the cap. Thus, the drain tool can be connected with the cap while the hooking portion is supported by the hooked portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignees: Toyota Boshoku Corporation, Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Haruaki Sakata, Toshihiro Takahara, Yoshihiko Sugiura, Noriyuki Tsuge
  • Patent number: 7147004
    Abstract: An apparatus discloses a cam lock fitting having a check valve which can be opened or closed inside the male or female end of the cam lock fitting so that when the check valve is closed the flow from either end of the cam lock fitting can be stopped by the check valve. The check valve may be located on the male end or the female end of the cam lock fitting. If the check valve is located on the female end it is operated by an arm connected to the lever of the cam lock fitting so that when the lever is opened the check valve is closed and vice versus. Furthermore, regarding the male end of the cam lock fitting, the check valve is normally maintained in the closed position and then when the male end is inserted into the female end, the check valve is opened by a rod member making contact with the facing of the female end of the cam lock fitting so that the check valve in the male cam lock fitting is then opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Inventor: Jeffrey Hartman
  • Patent number: 7143994
    Abstract: The invention relates to a coupling device including a coupling part provided with a coupling member and having an internal bore extending through the coupling part and its coupling member, wherein the coupling part is provided with a valve, which includes a valve body displaceably arranged inside the internal bore and a spring member acting on the valve body, the valve body being displaceable against the action of the spring member from a first position to a second position. The valve includes a housing fixed inside the internal bore, the housing being provided with a cavity accommodating the spring member and a part of the valve body. The cavity is in fluid communication with an orifice at the end of the valve facing the free end of the coupling member so as to allow the cavity to be in fluid communication with the surroundings via the orifice when the coupling member is out of engagement with a corresponding coupling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Vetco Aibel AS
    Inventors: Inge Østergaard, Erik Raad, Staale Svindland
  • Patent number: 7141166
    Abstract: An oil filter has a drain hole, which is internally blocked with a valve member. When oil remaining in the oil filter is drained, a drainpipe is inserted into the drain hole, so that the valve member is displaced and remaining oil is drained from the drain hole. This valve member has an annular recession to steadily support an upper end of the inserted drainpipe. Therefore, gripping force of the drainpipe is enhanced without decreasing draining performance. The drainpipe and the oil filter are connected with each other via a seal member that is provided to the oil filter. The drainpipe 80 has a removing means that holds at least a part of the seal member to pick the seal member off the oil filter, when the inserted drainpipe is detached from the drain hole. Thus, the seal member can be removed simultaneously with the drainpipe from the oil filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignees: Toyoda Boshoku Corporation, Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshihiko Sugiura, Toshihiro Takahara, Noriyuki Tsuge
  • Patent number: 7140592
    Abstract: A self-sealing male Luer connector for connection with a female Luer connector. The male Luer connector includes a housing having a distally-projecting tubular male body and a surrounding cuff interconnected by a proximal wall in which is formed at least one activation opening. A valve plug is slidably installed within the housing and formed with a distal end configured to sealingly engage the distal end of the male body's interior flow passage and with at least one activation arm at its proximal end configured to extend through the activation opening into the cavity formed between the male body and the cuff. An elastomeric device is sealingly configured within the activation opening about the activation arm to secure the valve plug in position and bias it distally. The proximal end of the male Luer connector may be configured as a conventional female connector, a blood collection device, or other such device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Phillips
  • Patent number: 7117891
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a pressure bleed device for a hydraulic coupling which includes a male component that comprises a body, a flow passage which extends generally axially through the body, a valve seat which is formed proximate one end of the flow passage, and a valve element which is biased into sealing engagement with the valve seat to thereby close the flow passage. The pressure bleed device includes a bleed passage which extends through the body and communicates with the flow passage, and a valve for selectively opening the bleed passage when an internal pressure within the flow passage is greater than an external pressure outside the body. Thus, when the flow passage is closed, excess internal pressure within the flow passage is vented outside the body through the bleed passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: FMC Kongsberg Subsea AS
    Inventors: Heyn Halfdan Magnus, Petter Støvset
  • Patent number: 7111819
    Abstract: A stop ring is made of an elastic member curved substantially in a plane into a ring shape having a first end and a second end spaced apart from each other in a circumferential direction. The first end is bent in a plane to incline inward with respect to a radial direction from the circumferential direction of the stop ring and to extend towards the second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Nitto Kohki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshio Mikiya, Koji Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 7111820
    Abstract: An apparatus, method, and system for an inline connector for coupling/uncoupling regulators to a plumbing conduit is disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: JBS, Inc.
    Inventor: Bryan Walter Weis
  • Patent number: 7104520
    Abstract: A needle free medical connector includes a housing with a first port and a second port. The connector also includes a piston element defining a fluid passageway between the first and second ports. The piston element is movable between flow and non-flow positions. The piston element has a compressible section having a variable inner width that forms a part of the flow path through the connector. As the piston is compressed to the flow position, the compressible section self-expands in width thereby maintaining or increasing the volume of the fluid passageway through the connector. The compressible section has a configuration permitting the continuous flow of fluid through its entirety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Alaris Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Karl R. Leinsing, Theodore J. Mosler
  • Patent number: 7100891
    Abstract: A male luer connector device that attaches to any standard female luer valve to open a flow channel between the two luers. The male luer is comprised of a tubular housing element, a resilient member contained within the housing and extending within an inner tubular portion defined in the housing, a resilient member that extends within the inner tubular portion of the housing, and a valve member attached to the resilient member that seals the tubular portion. When the male luer is engaged with any standard female luer, a female luer connector device drives the resilient member of the male luer into a compressed position to open the forward end of the male luer and permit liquid flow between the luers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark C. Doyle
  • Patent number: 7073773
    Abstract: The invention concerns a rapid connection coupling (10) for transferring high-pressure gases and/or liquid, in particular for refilling a high-pressure, mobile container such as a gas cylinder with oxygen in a home environment or at a transfill station with a transfill device. The coupling in question comprises the following elements: a tubular housing (11), an outer sliding sleeve (18) which can slide relative to the housing (11); a number of radially expanding collet chuck elements (15) mounted on the housing (11) and provided with an engaging contour (17) which facilitates connection to a matching connection fitting (30); and a sealing piston (22) capable of sliding centrally inside the housing (11), the said sealing piston being brought into contact with the connecting fitting (30). Internal parts (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignees: Invacare Corporation
    Inventors: David A. Nuttall, Jens Farwer, Wolfgang Weh, Erwin Weh
  • Patent number: 7059582
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a fuel cell supply for a fuel cell having an outer casing, a liner member containing methanol, and a valve component comprising a valve body member and a slidable body member disposed inside the valve body member. The slidable body member is normally biased toward a valve seat surface to seal the valve component and the slidable body member can be moved away from the valve seat surface to open the valve component. The liner member, the valve body member and the slidable body member are made from at least two different materials and wherein at least one of the members compatible with methanol. Hence, each component can be selected from material(s) that is substantially optimal for its function in the fuel supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Societe BIC
    Inventors: Paul Adams, Andrew J. Curello, Floyd Fairbanks
  • Patent number: 7044441
    Abstract: A male Luer connector that attaches to a standard female Luer connector to open a medical fluid flow channel between the two connectors. The male connector has two internal valves and a vacuum-generating structure. The two valves and the vacuum-generating structure are configured to draw back into the male connector any fluid residing on the interface between the male and female connectors during their disengagement from one another and to then seal the distal tip of the male connector. One valve is located at the proximal end of the male connector while another is located at the distal, interface end of the male connector. Both valves are opened by an actuator plug that is moved to open and close the valves by contact with the front surface of the female connector. A resilient member biases the male valves to the closed position and includes a variable internal volume that creates the partial vacuum upon disengagement of the male and female connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark C. Doyle
  • Patent number: 7040599
    Abstract: The present invention provides a convenient and highly reliable joint device which contains a small number of components by simplifying the coupling structure, which is small-sized and can be manufactured at low cost, which is leak-proof under a wide range of conditions, regardless of the degree of internal pressure, and which does not contaminate the liquid inside the joint device. Concerning the liquid sending and receiving joint device of this invention for connecting a liquid reservoir 1, which contains the liquid, with a liquid acceptor 4 which receives the liquid from the liquid reservoir 1, an elastic member 3a or 3b having at least a hole 6 and a valve 11 with a flow path is provided at a joint part of either the liquid reservoir or the liquid acceptor, or both of them, wherein the valve 11 fits in or engages with the hole 6.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Nix, Inc.
    Inventors: Nobuo Katsuura, Toru Takahashi
  • Patent number: 7028983
    Abstract: When a valve body of a coupling member is moving toward a fluid passage closed position, if the valve body becomes inclined, the present invention prevents a sealing ring of the valve body from coming into friction engagement with a conical wall surface of the fluid passage and coming to a stop. The valve body has a valve head provided with a disk-shaped portion, a sealing ring, and a sealing ring support that supports this sealing ring against the valve head; and an angle that a line tangent to a disk-shaped member of the valve head and sealing ring makes with respect to the axis of the valve body is less than or equal to an angle that the conical wall surface, forming the valve seat of the fluid passage, makes with respect to the axis of this fluid passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Nitto Kohki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshikazu Ozaki, Kazutami Ishiwata
  • Patent number: 7013926
    Abstract: A plumbing pipe plug apparatus configured for insertion into a section of pipe and adapted to radially expand so as to engage the inner surface of the pipe and form a positive seal therewith is disclosed. The pipe plug is adapted with a conduit having a check valve that opens in response to fluid pressure to enable the injection into the plumbing system of a pressurized fluid, such as water, to pressurize the system downstream of the plug to allow for leak inspection and pressure testing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventors: Randy Storey, Michael Anthony
  • Patent number: 7014169
    Abstract: A medical valve has a translating member that enlarges the volume of the interior of the valve when the valve is in an open mode (permitting fluid flow), and decreases the volume of the interior when the valve is in a closed mode (preventing fluid flow). This varying volume should substantially eliminate drawback into the valve. To that end, the valve includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and a fluid channel extending between the inlet and the outlet. The fluid channel includes a variable volume region. The valve further includes the above noted translating member, which is secured to the housing and at least partly bounds the variable volume region. The translating member has at least a portion that moves distally when the valve transitions from the closed mode to the open mode. The distal movement of the translating member enlarges the volume on the variable volume region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Nypro Inc.
    Inventors: Brian L. Newton, Andrew L. Cote, Sr., Charles F. Ganem, Scott Castanon
  • Patent number: 7007712
    Abstract: A pneumatic tool lock integral to the structure of a pneumatic tool and adapted to replace the existing male nipple component of the pneumatic tool is provided. The pneumatic tool lock includes an outer housing adapted to provide access to inner components of the pneumatic tool lock, the outer housing having a first end for securely mating with the pneumatic tool and a second end for coupling with a fluid source. An inner passageway within the outer housing provides a means for fluid to flow through from the fluid source to the pneumatic tool. A key operated lock mounted on the outer housing is displaceable between a first open position and a second closed position. A needle valve attached to the key operated lock disengageably mates with a channel extending between the inner passageway and the outer housing so as to block and un-block fluid flow into the inner passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventor: Gary Anderson
  • Patent number: 6997435
    Abstract: A valve assembly to avoid or minimise the effect of “compression setting” which occurs when valves control the flow of some hazardous and/or corrosive fluids, especially when at en elevated temperature. The valve assembly includes a valve stem having a head portion which engages with a valve seat in order to close and seal the valve and an elastically deformable portion. In order to allow fluid to flow through the valve, the elastically deformable portion of the valve stem is deformed to allow fluid to pass between the head portion and the valve seat. An additional biasing element such as a cylindrical or conical compression spring is provided to urge the head portion towards contact with the valve seat. In this way, should “compression setting” of the elastic portion of the valve stem take place, the additional spring will ensure that the valve head is still able to be engaged with the valve seat to thereby close the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: ITW New Zealand Limited
    Inventor: Andrew Nicholson Wrigley
  • Patent number: 6994315
    Abstract: An improved needle-free intravenous injection port assembly is disclosed. Embodiments include a boot valve with a helical surface, a boot valve and septum which mate with mechanical interference, a spike with a rough outer surface coated with a lubricant, a septum having a shoulder and a single continuous swabbable surface, a septum and a boot valve which are pre-punctured with a solid core steel needle, a septum with a frustroconical extension and a combination single piece septum and boot valve. The injection port assembly provides neutral fluid displacement during coupling and uncoupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Rymed Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Dana Wm. Ryan, David P. Gordon, James M. Kaiser, Frank A. Scarfone
  • Patent number: 6991215
    Abstract: A one-way valve assembly can be fitted to the end of a syringe to allow fluid to flow from the syringe and into a body cavity but to prevent backflow. The valve assembly is opened by insertion of the luer tip of the syringe into the assembly inlet. The valve has an internal elastic member that forms a variable volume internal chamber. This chamber expands upon insertion of the luer tip into the inlet and shrinks when the luer tip is removed from the assembly. The shrinking action creates a positive pressure in the valve assembly to prevent backflow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Occupational & Medical Innovations, Ltd.
    Inventor: Bruce Leigh Kiehne
  • Patent number: 6981612
    Abstract: A pin valve assembly includes a spring biasing a piston against a seal to seal an opening of a gas cylinder. The spring compresses a length determined by a distance between the insert and the plunger. The insert is pressed into an opening opposite the plunger and held in place by at least one barb extending inward from an inner diameter of a body of the insert. The insert includes an opening to allow communication of gas pressure to a rear portion of the piston. The inner diameter of the pin valve assembly includes at least one barb to secure and prevent removal of the insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Gas Cylinder Technologies
    Inventors: Thomas S. Siimes, Timo Siimes
  • Patent number: 6978844
    Abstract: A disclosure is provided describing a filling and circulating tool and method of use. The filling and circulating tool comprises a tubular housing having a first fluid passage and a longitudinal axis, a movable seal coupled to an exterior of the housing, the seal adapted to substantially block a flow of fluid through the first fluid passage when the seal is in a closed position and to allow the flow of fluid when the seal is in an open position, and an actuating device coupled to the movable seal such that in response to insertion into the casing, the actuating device causes the movable seal to move from the closed position to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: LaFleur Petroleum Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Karl K. LaFleur
  • Patent number: 6978800
    Abstract: A closure device used in a fluid dispensing assembly. The closure device contains a housing, a poppet member, and a biasing member. The closure device provides a retaining structure for stabilizing and aligning the poppet member and biasing member within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Colder Products Company
    Inventors: Charles Peter deCler, Robert K. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6971630
    Abstract: A needle free medical connector includes a housing with a first port and a second port. The connector also includes a piston element defining a fluid passageway between the first and second ports. The piston element is movable between flow and non-flow positions. The piston element has a compressible section having a variable inner width that forms a part of the flow path through the connector. As the piston is compressed to the flow position, the compressible section self-expands in width thereby maintaining or increasing the volume of the fluid passageway through the connector. The compressible section has a configuration permitting the continuous flow of fluid through its entirety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Alaris Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Karl R. Leinsing, Theodore J. Mosler
  • Patent number: 6964406
    Abstract: A male luer connector device that attaches to any standard female luer valve to open a flow channel between the two luers. The male luer is comprised of a tubular housing element, a resilient member contained within the housing and extending within an inner tubular portion defined in the housing, a resilient member that extends within the inner tubular portion of the housing, and a valve member attached to the resilient member that seals the tubular portion. When the male luer is engaged with any standard female luer, a female luer connector device drives the resilient member of the male luer into a compressed position to open the forward end of the male luer and permit liquid flow between the luers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Alaris Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark C. Doyle
  • Patent number: 6962321
    Abstract: A two-part coupling structure (22, 32) includes a male coupling part (32) and a female coupling part (22) which are mutually engageable to open fluid communication between the coupling parts (22, 32). For example, the coupling parts (22, 32) may be used to establish fluid communication between a container (12) and a conduit (14). The coupling parts (22, 32) are disengageable from one another to discontinue fluid communication between them, and also to close communication between ambient and each of the container (12) and the conduit (14). The male coupling part (32) includes a mounting structure (44a-44e) for supporting on the female coupling part (32), and also includes a guide structure (44) effective to guide a male probe portion (36) of the male coupling part (32) into engagement with the female coupling part (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Scholle Corporation
    Inventors: Chester Savage, Mark Anderson, Silvio Sandvoss
  • Patent number: 6955185
    Abstract: A fluid dispensing system for use with a drum with a bung, and a drum insert that includes a downtube that inserts into the bung. A dispense head has provision for a return flow line that discharges recirculated fluid into the annular space around the drum insert downtube. A foaming reduction device minimizes foam created from the recirculation. The invention includes a spring-loaded poppet that closes when the dispense head is removed from the bung opening. The poppet is configured such that the engagement member is a ring shaped with support members extending axially. The engagement member seats on and couples with a nipple on the drum insert. The nipple has a seating portion to engage the engagement member of the poppet. The invention also includes a seal verification conduit in fluid communication with a space intermediate two seals at a junction between the dispense head and the drum insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Entegris, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry L. Rauworth, John M. Hennen
  • Patent number: 6953070
    Abstract: A dispensing valve comprises a first component comprising a body adapted to be secured in fluid communication to a fitment of a liquid container. The body defines a first flow passage that extends therethrough. The first flow passage has an inlet. A valve assembly is connected to said body. The valve assembly comprises: (i) a seal retaining body defining a second flow passage that communicates with said inlet of said first flow passage; and, (ii) a resilient seal member located in said second flow passage and resiliently urged into sealing engagement with the inlet to block fluid flow from the second flow passage into the first flow passage via the inlet. The dispensing valve further comprises an outlet spout that defines a bore that extends from and through a first end to and through a second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: The Meyer Company
    Inventors: Jeffery J. Labinski, Michael H. Meyer, Louis J. Castro, Raymond P. Kawolics
  • Patent number: 6948698
    Abstract: A valve for a pressurized canister includes a housing having a central aperture extending therethrough, a first set of external threads, and a second set of external threads. A sealing member is positioned in an axially outward end of the central aperture and is axially moveable. A first spring biases the pin axially outwardly. An axially slidable member is received and axially movable in the central aperture. A second spring biases the axially slidable member outwardly. A threaded member in an aperture in the housing engages the axially slidable member. Each of a plurality of radially moveable members is positioned in an aperture in the housing and is radially moveable between a lip on the aperture and the second spring. An exterior surface of an inner end of the axially slidable member engages and forces each radially moveable member into contact with the lip when the threaded member is tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventors: Eric Scott, Nancy A. Scott
  • Patent number: 6942193
    Abstract: A self-sealing end fitting including an adapter receptive of an NAS specified fitting and a valve biased to a closed position, where the valve opens when mated to the NAS specified fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Neill D. Perrine, Russell L. Rogers, Alexander P. Webster