Abstract: A valve opening and closing system for valves that are difficult to access has a universal torque rod to which one of a plurality of different sized socket wrench heads, forming a set, is individually attachable to the distal end thereof. Each socket wrench head of the set is color coded and may be stamped to indicate its specific size. The torque rod has a handle that forms a T-bar with the shank of the torque rod. An extension handle can be attached to increase handle length. An extension member can also be attached to the torque rod via its socket collar, to increase its length.

Abstract: A valve lock for locking a valve spindle in a selected position corresponding to the valve being for example fully open or fully closed. The lock has a housing which is mounted on the valve body and a hub which engages and rotates with the valve spindle relative to the housing. A latch is provided between the housing and the hub, the latch being actuatable by a key to assume a latched condition in which rotation of the hub relative to the housing is permitted in one direction but prevented in the other direction. A spindle position indicator is coupled by a transmission to the hub as to be displaced as a result of rotation of the spindle, thereby to indicate the spindle position relative to the valve body. The spindle position indicator prevents actuation of the latch by the key except when the spindle is in the selected position as represented by the spindle position indicator.

Abstract: A valve includes a chamber having an inlet, an outlet, and an annular recess. A movable element is disposed in the chamber to control the flow of fluids between the inlet and the outlet. A stem is secured to a movable element and extends exteriorly through the annular recess. A seal and a fastener are disposed around the stem. The fastener is in displaceable engagement and disengagement with the stem and has recesses formed in each of its exterior side surfaces. A plurality of mounting pads are positioned around the annular recess. The mounting pads are elevated to provide separation between the fastener recesses and a peripheral surface. A method of constructing the mechanical valve includes tightening the fastener around the stem by engaging a recess with an axial tool.

Abstract: An actuator mounting device for mounting an actuator having an actuator housing to a support structure associated with a fluid flow control unit. The actuator mounting device includes a mounting bracket and a pair of guide members. The mounting bracket includes a pair of spaced side walls, a rail extending from each side wall, and a stop. The pair of spaced side walls define a leading end and a trailing end. Further, each of the side walls has a base portion securable to the support structure. Finally, the stop is positioned at the trailing end of the spaced side walls. The pair of guide members are each configured to be mountable to an opposing side of the actuator housing and each include an engagement surface configured to slidably engage one of said rails. During assembly of the actuator to the support structure, the rails direct the guide members to a secured position at which the actuator housing is connected to the stop.

Abstract: A spring return type valve system includes: a valve (2) having a valve shaft (22) to be operated rotationally for controlling the flow rate of fluid flowing through a fluid channel; an actuator (4) having an output shaft (42) rotated by an electric motor; a spring unit (3) having a rotating shaft (32) for transmitting the rotational power of the actuator output shaft to the valve shaft and a return spring for giving the rotating shaft a rotational power in one direction; and a yoke (5) for the actuator and the spring unit to be detachably mounted on.

Abstract: A connection for joining an actuator to a valve comprising providing at least two flanged pins each in the body of the valve, providing at least two mating holes in a body of the actuator, the mating holes being aligned with the pins, providing a tapped hole transverse to each of the mating holes, the valve body being joined to the actuator such that the pins mate slidably with the holes, with set screws in the tapped holes engaging the flanged pins to axially tension the pins to draw the valve body into physical contact with the actuator.

Abstract: A retrofittable electric valve operating mechanism is provided which can be attached to an existing manual valve configuration while still allowing the manual feature of the valve to be utilized in two different manners. The configuration includes features which allow for certain misalignment of elements lying along the drive path, and can be installed without disturbing the existing plumbing associated with the valve.

Abstract: A system for filing or discharging compressed gas or liquid cylinders mounted on the cylinder. An automatic system for filing or discharging a compressed gas cylinder, specifically chlorine, sulfur dioxide, or ammonia cylinders. The system includes an electric motor that rotates the cylinder valve system toward open or closed position without interfering with or requiring additional adapters for the filing or discharge hardware. The motor, gears, and controls are assembled as one unit to eliminate the necessity for a separate control panel or interconnecting control wires. The system has the capabilities for integral leak detection with automatic shutdown, battery backup in the event of power failure, remote control by leak detector, remote control panic button, remote low weight transmitter, remote vacuum switch for automatic switch-over systems and other remote digital signals.

Abstract: An overall valving system is situated generally between a source of water and a habitable structure; a main valve is selectively openable and closable to permit and terminate flow from such source of water to the habitable structure; a conduit is provided for supplying pressurized air to an area downstream of the main valve when the main valve is closed.

Abstract: An engine coolant valve has a valve body with rotatable valve member thereon with a cylindrical configuration cross ported for rotary sealing against an arcuately shaped elastomeric face seal. A torque motor is attached to the valve body and has the motor rotor drivingly engaging a hub on the valve member.

Abstract: A retrofittable electric valve operating mechanism is provided which can be attached to an existing manual valve configuration while still allowing the manual feature of the valve to be utilized in two different manners. The configuration includes features which allow for certain misalignment of elements lying along the drive path, and can be installed without disturbing the existing plumbing associated with the valve.

Abstract: A valve stem extension for extending the length of a valve stem, the valve stem extension including an extension member and a rotation resisting member. The extension member has a first end for engaging the valve stem and defines an opening which exposes two opposing flat sides of the valve stem when the extension member is engaged with the valve stem. The rotation resisting member includes two opposing flat sides and is configured to be insertable within the opening of the extension member after engagement of the extension member with the valve stem. When positioned in the opening of the extension member, the two opposing flat sides of the rotation resisting member engage the two opposing flat sides of the valve stem to resist rotation of the extension member relative to the valve stem.

Abstract: A locking device for faucet for preventing turning of the knobs of a faucet. The locking device for faucet includes a base plate nonrotatably coupled to a faucet. A locking plate is coupled to the base plate and selectively engages a knob of the faucet for preventing rotation of the knob. A means for releasing disengages the locking plate from the knob.

Abstract: A valve lock for locking a valve spindle in a selected position corresponding to the valve being for example fully open or fully closed. The lock has a housing which is mounted on the valve body and a hub which engages and rotates with the valve spindle relative to the housing. A latch is provided between the housing and the hub, the latch being actuatable by a key to assume a latched condition in which rotation of the hub relative to the housing is permitted in one direction but prevented in the other direction. A spindle position indicator is coupled by a transmission to the hub so as to be displaced as a result of rotation of the spindle, thereby to indicate the spindle position relative to the valve body. The spindle position indicator prevents actuation of the latch by the key except when the spindle is in the selected position as represented by the spindle position indicator.

Abstract: An automatic shutoff valve for shutting off the main water supply to a building in the case of detected water leak. A ball valve is provided with a mounting kit for rendering the valve automatic. The apparatus includes a housing adapted to fit over the valve body and secured directly to the pipes with adjustable clamps. The kit includes a two-section lever member pivotally mounted to the valve. The one-quarter turn movement of the lever member determines the opening and the closing of the valve. A spring-loaded cable and a system of pulleys control the lever member. A retaining member is pivotally mounted to the floor of the housing and a pair of arms extends outwardly therefrom with one arm of the retaining member engaging a slot in the upper end of the internal section of the lever member to retain the valve in the opened position.

Abstract: A safety device for shutting off a gas valve at the detection of a gas leak has an add-on adaptor device having a first knob mounted over an existing gas knob and affixed thereto; a spindle coupled to the first knob, capable of rotating the fist knob, and the gas valve knob, between an open position and a closed position. A second knob is rotatably mounted substantially perpendicular to the spindle, and is provided with firm cantilever which is extended to provide a firm support along side the gas valve knob so as to cause rotation of the gas valve knob when the second knob is rotated in one direction. A spinning is attached to the second knob and is in a wound state when the second knob is parallel to the first knob when the first knob is in the open position, and in an unwound state when the first knob is in the closed position.

Abstract: A container access system and method for accessing the contents of a container within a sealed containment vessel. A preferred embodiment of the access system includes a sealable vessel for housing a container to be accessed, a remotely operated container valve actuator within the vessel, and a tapping assembly positioned within the containment vessel for accessing the contents of a target container. One or more fluid seals may be made with access mechanisms and the target container. An access mechanism capable of inserting a dip tube into the container to facilitate liquid removal.

Abstract: An actuator for controlling the rotation of a valve spindle relative to a valve body (5). The actuator is in the form of an actuator body which receives a rotatable hub (6). The actuator body (3) is secured to the valve body by for example a mounting plate (7) which is bolted to the valve body or straps which are clamped to pipework connected to the valve body. The hub is retained in a predetermined position adjacent the valve body by the actuator body such that it may rotate with the valve spindle. Jaws (15) are mounted on the hub which may be clamped into engagement with the valve spindle so that torque applied to the hub by for example an actuator bar (12) is transmitted to the valve spindle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining valves in a water distribution system is the subject matter. A description is prepared of each valve in the system. An individual identifying symbol is assigned to each valve. The identifying symbol and the valve individual description and location, is loaded into a computer database. A group of valves in the system is selected to define an inspection route. A portable computer is loaded with the information regarding each valve along the inspection route. A valve turning machine is positioned adjacent to a selected valve. The valve turning machine includes an identification reader, a timer and the portable computer. A reader identifies a select valve by means of its symbol and the symbol is recorded in the portable computer. The turning machine is connected to the stem of the selected valve to turn the stem in a selected direction. The number of revolutions of the valve stem is counted and recorded in the portable computer.

Abstract: A method and system for installing, removing and actuation a rotatable keyed actuation portion or lower valve stem portion of a fire hydrant or other valve device consisting of a first device for installing a rotatable keyed actuation portion, a second device for removing a rotatable keyed actuation portion and a third device for actuating a rotatable keyed actuation portion or a lower valve stem portion of a fire hydrant or other valve device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for remotely opening a manual valve of a gas cylinder from a remote location. The gas cylinder is first connected to a purge system which is purged of oxygen and pressurized with an inert gas to a pressure near that of the gas cylinder. The manual valve is then engaged with a pneumatic stepper mechanism. Pneumatic fluid is supplied to the pneumatic stepper mechanism to rotate the manual valve a predetermined stepped increment. The step of supplying pneumatic fluid to the pneumatic stepper mechanism is repeated, after pausing to let the system settle, to rotate the manual valve another stepped increment. The steps of rotating and pausing are repeated until the manual valve is opened. The purge system is then vented to atmosphere through a diffuser. Both the pneumatic stepper mechanism and the purge system are fully operable from the remote location. The pneumatic stepper mechanism includes a ratchet assembly and an attachment assembly connecting the ratchet assembly to the manual valve.

Abstract: A plaster guard for a concealed sanitary valve which can be controlled by means of a valve control element such as a valve spindle or a valve control disc. The plaster guard is equipped with a tool to operate the valve control element.

Abstract: A retrofittable electric valve operating mechanism is provided which can be attached to an existing manual valve configuration while still allowing the manual feature of the valve to be utilized in two different manners. The configuration includes features which allow for certain misalignment of elements lying along the drive path, and can be installed without disturbing the existing plumbing associated with the valve.

Abstract: The valve comprises an operating wheel connected by a connecting rod to an opening and closing member. The valve is sealed by a stuffening box fixed into the upper part of the body around the rod. The stuffening box has a polygonal head so that it can be screwed and unscrewed. However the head is not accessible using a conventional spanner so as to prevent a non-specialist form slackening of the stuffing box and avoid him risking an accident.

Abstract: A valve turning machine includes an adjustable length mount to retain the machine on the bed of a truck. Also, an improved track facilitates the movement of the table and motor assemble between a retracted position and an extended position.

Abstract: A rotary valve actuator with movable actuator linkage maintained in a constant "pull-pull" tension, includes a sliding canister, rotatable lever, and a return spring substantially aligned in-line with each other. The linear motion of the canister in response to an expanding and contracting pressurized bladder is converted through chain linkage into rotary lever motion. The return spring is connected through respective chain linkage to the lever so the pulling tension of the spring/lever linkage rotates the lever and maintains tension on both chain linkages. Adjustable travel stops are provided. In an alternate embodiment the return spring chain linkage is configured at right angles to the linear movement of the canister. A zero lost motion universal connection includes a splined sleeve matching the splined valve shaft and inserted into a lever bore. A set screw with a flat front end is threaded into the lever and tightened against a flat surface on the splined sleeve exterior.

Abstract: An adapter for intercoupling a valve and an actuator to limit the heat transfer therebetween. The adapter includes a body for separating the actuator from the valve, first means for coupling the adapter to the valve, second means for coupling the adapter to the actuator, and a passage extending through the body to accommodate a stem for operationally coupling the actuator to the valve.

Abstract: A system for use with a normally open manually actuated water valve, or any other suitable manually actuated device, for automatically closing the valve, or device, upon sensing water. The system includes at least one water sensor electrically connected to a motorized actuator mounted on the valve, or device, whereby a signal is transmitted either by electrical conductor, or in an alternate embodiment by RF transmission, to the motorized actuator upon sensing water, whereby said manual valve is automatically actuated to its closed position. The system may be installed on an otherwise conventional manual shut-off valve, without replacing the valve or otherwise interrupting flow through the valve.

Abstract: A ball valve includes a hollow valve body for mounting a valve ball therein. A drive transmitting stem has a proximate end coupled to the valve ball, and a distal end extending outwardly of the valve body for coupling with an output drive shaft of a valve control device. A hollow bearing housing of a single-piece construction is sleeved spacedly on the stem, and has a mounting end inserted into the valve body, and a support end for supporting securely the valve control device. An annular packing member, a tensioning member and a bearing member are mounted sealingly on the stem and are completely received in the bearing housing. As such, the ball valve can be connected directly to the valve control device through the bearing housing without the need for a connecting bracket.

Abstract: This invention relates to an adaptor having one end for activating a valve and another end for connection to a rod said adaptor including a socket at said one end to register with said valve for operating said valve, and including a slot at said other end for receiving and pivotally connecting to said rod. The invention also teaches a pin removal tool for removing pins underground from the surface.

Abstract: A countertorque arm assembly mounts onto a pressure cylinder valve body for cradling an actuator that operates to rotate the valve stem in response to a sensed condition.

Abstract: In an air conditioner unit having a rotary-type door for changing air flow direction, a free end part of a rotary-type door support shaft is formed in a tubular shape. The free end part have an outside flat face on a part of the radially outside periphery and an inside flat face on a part of the radially inside periphery. A lever having an opening which corresponds to the outside peripheral shape of the free end part is fitted on the free end part in the case of manually driving the switching door. A rotary output shaft of an actuator having an outside flat face which corresponds to the inside peripheral shape of the free end part is fitted into the free end part in the case of automatically driving the switching door. The flat faces determine a fixing position of the lever or the actuator in a circumferential direction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved ball valve assembly which is adapted to be fitted into a water delivery device such as a spigot or fire hydrant. More specifically, the ball valve assembly is specifically installed and adapted for remote control. Such remote control enables the ball valve to be positioned at a location within the water delivery device to avoid damage. Thus, the remote control enables the ball valve to be resistant to cold weather or physical damage to the delivery device. The various components of the present invention, and the manner in which they interrelate, will be described in greater detail hereinafter.

Abstract: A faucet handle base includes a socket receiving the head of a valve stem, and a laterally directed elongate bore communicating with the socket. The inner end portion of the bore is internally threaded and receives a retaining screw extensible into the valve socket, the outer end portion of the bore, of a relatively larger internally threaded diameter, receives the mounting nipple on a handle insert, closing the bore and completely concealing the retaining screw.

Abstract: A handle assembly for a rotating shaft which reduces shaft wobble. The handle assembly has a bearing in the form of a split ring which is arcuate in cross section to provide a reduced friction when the bearing is placed between the shaft and a housing axial bore. The handle assembly is employed to engage and rotate the stem of a valve. In a preferred manner, the bearing affords a cavity for a shaft lubricant.

Abstract: A handle construction for operation of a faucet which minimizes assembly parts while enhancing performance of the handle. The handle assembly includes a base which is secured to the operating valve of the faucet for operational control of fluid flow through the faucet. An upper end of the base has a horizontally disposed tubular seat adapted to receive a lever body and an axial spindle extending through the body. The spindle is threadably received within the seat to retain the lever body within the seat. The lever body is interchangeable to alter the aesthetic appearance of the faucet handle.

Abstract: This invention relates to an adaptor for activating a valve, the adaptor includes a socket at one end thereof to register with the valve, the socket including at least one displaceable engageable ball plunger for gripping the valve when the socket is urged against the valve for operating the valve. The invention also relates to a service box assembly for a water valve disposed in the ground which utilizes the adaptor as well as the method of exposing a water valve to reinstall an inoperable service box rod in a service box assembly having a water valve below ground level. The invention also teaches installation tools to locate and maintain a service box rod within a service box assembly.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a basement sewer backflow control valve with adapter. A valve such as a ball valve is positioned a sewer line under the floor of a basement with an adapter extending vertically through the basement floor providing a means for opening and closing the valve as needed to ensure flood waters do not backflow into the basement during flooding. The valve and adapter may also be utilized in combination with an in-line check valve. The adapter provides a flush surface with the basement floor.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the a valve by a coded electromagnetic signal comprises a saddle assembly for installation on a valve. The saddle assembly includes an aperture allowing for placement over a valve stem and a valve saddle having two arm elements which are secured to a saddle plate and extend around the valve. A drive drum is secured to the saddle assembly and includes a drive drum tube. Drive plates are secured to the drive drum tube and are separated by drive drum alignment spacers. Drive plate drive channels guide a non-stationary post attached to plurality of drive springs secured to an upper and a lower stationary guide plate. A plurality of stationary guide plates includes an aperture through which a drive drum tube passes allowing the drive drum to rotate freely. A plurality of guide plates are linked to a hammer shaft and a hammer cam which is released by a trigger activated by the coded electromagnetic signal which allows the rotation of the drive drum and turning of the valve stem.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic valve actuating system that is responsive to various externally detected stimuli. The system is comprised of a monitoring and alarm components that close a valve upon the detection of a fault occurring from the undesirable presence of carbon monoxide or combustible gases. Combustible gases, such as, propane, methane, hydrogen and the like can create a hazardous explosive environment, especially when these gases are mixed with the oxygen in the air. The valve actuating apparatus mounts directly to an existing valve, such as one that opens and closes within a quarter of a turn. An audible alarm is given when a hazardous condition is detected. For those who are hearing impaired, an optional visual alarm is also given. A CO.sub.2 cylinder provides a pressure source to operate a pneumatic linear actuator. A low pressure switch sounds a secondary alarm to alert the maintenance personnel to replace the carbon dioxide tank.

Abstract: A coupling member between a valve driver and a valve has a pin extending into the valve driver shaft and a head with a groove receiving the shaft of the valve and a recess accommodating the packing nut thereof. A spring braced between the coupling member and the valve driver allows the coupling member to be lifted from the nut for tightening thereof.

Abstract: A seismic gas shut-off valve includes a lock to control resetting after a seismic event. The valve includes internal first and second seats for a ball vale in which the first seat is elevated above the second seat and the second seat lies within the flow of gas from a supply line to a distribution line. A horizontal shaft is extendible within the valve body to reposition the ball valve from the lower second seat to the upper first seat after valve actuation. A lock comprising an integral three-sided bracket and padlock is selectively engaged to the reset shaft to prevent premature and unsafe resetting or "opening" of the valve after an earthquake. In an alternative embodiment, the bracket includes an elongated wing element that includes an aperture. The alternative embodiment is suitable for use as a wrench to operate the main gas shut-off of a residence or other building.

Abstract: A one piece coupler for a curb box shut off valve comprised of a shaft having a top and a base, the base being comprised of a U-shaped member having two depending arms extending longitudinally parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the shaft, each depending arm of the U-shaped member having spring loaded fastening means therein, at least one of which spring loaded fastening means is adjustable, the spring loaded fastening means extending substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, the top of the shaft being shaped to receive turning means.

Abstract: A filter system for a liquid, which system has a base with an inlet for incoming unfiltered liquid and an outlet for outgoing filtered liquid and a filter subassembly having a filter unit and structure for removably maintaining the filter unit in an operative position on the base. There is a first lead-in port on the base in communication with the base inlet and a first lead-out port on the base in communication with the base outlet. There is a second lead-in port on the filter unit and a second lead-out port on the filter unit. The filter unit further has structure for filtering liquid communicating between the second lead-in port and the second lead-out port.

Abstract: A valve closing mechanism comprises a stand-off arm (18) adapted for attachment to the valve body, a lever arm (22) incorporating a fitting (24) for connection to the valve spindle (16), and an actuator (26) acting between the stand-off arm (18) and the lever arm (22) for effecting angular oscillatory movement of the lever arm, said fitting comprising a one-way drive transmitting arrangement whereby the spindle is rotated when the lever arm is displaced in one direction but remains stationary when the lever arm is displaced in the opposite direction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a basement sewer backflow control valve with adapter. A valve such as a ball valve is positioned a sewer line under the floor of a basement with an adapter extending vertically through the basement floor providing a means for opening and closing the valve as needed to ensure flood waters do not backflow into the basement during flooding. The valve and adapter may also be utilized in combination with an in-line check valve. The adapter provides a flush surface with the basement floor.

Abstract: There is disclosed an assembly for connecting an rotary valve and actuator wherein the actuator has a circle of holes in its mounting face and the valve has a circle of bolt holes in its flange adapted to receive bolts intended for make up with the threaded holes of the mounting face of the actuator, but wherein, due to circumstances of the manufacture of the valve and actuator, or otherwise, the circles are of different diameter so as to prevent connection of the valve and actuator in conventional manner. Thus, connection is instead made by an assembly including a spacer plate disposed between a mounting face of the actuator and a flange, and connected by studs made up with threaded holes in the mounting face and bolts extended through the bolt holes in the flange of the valve for make up with threaded holes in the plate.

Abstract: A ball valve which is opened and shut by the rotation of a spindle (5) to rotate a valve ball (2) engaged with the spindle (5), characterized in that a neck portion (4) of a valve body bearing the spindle (5) is provided integrally therewith with a top flange (7) for mounting either of a handle or an actuator for the operation of the spindle.

Abstract: A flow diverter 10 for mounting on the flange 53 of an irrigation standpipe valve 52 comprising a hollow cylindrical body 12, having a side opening 14, an anchor strap 16 formed integrally with the body 12 below the side opening 14, and a cap 18 mounted to the body 12 above the side opening 14. The body 12 and the strap 16 have rows of anchor stops 33 and 35 which fit above and below the valve flange 53 and the diverter 10 is secured to the valve 52 by the anchor strap 16 and the stops 33 and 35.

Abstract: An attachment for facilitating servicing of a valve, the valve including: an assembly composed of a valve seat defining a flow path, a flow control member movable relative to the valve seat for blocking or unblocking the valve seat, and a control device including a stem coupled to the flow control member and operable for moving the flow control member relative to the valve seat; a housing for receiving the assembly, the housing having an opening via which the assembly can be removed from, and installed in, the housing, and the housing having a plurality of threaded studs which surround the opening and project away from the housing; a valve housing cover for closing and sealing the opening in the housing, the cover having a first bore for passage of the stem of the control device when the assembly is installed in the housing and a plurality of second bores each located for passage of a respective stud when the cover closes the opening in the housing.