Rotary Valves Patents (Class 251/304)
  • Patent number: 7726338
    Abstract: A valve comprises a housing and at least three ceramic discs in the housing such that at least two fixed ceramic discs are provided and at least one rotatable ceramic disc is provided between the fixed ceramic discs. The ceramic discs comprise through holes such that when the holes are aligned, the valve is open, and turning the rotatable ceramic disc turns the holes to be misaligned in successive ceramic discs, which prevents water flow through the valve. The valve further comprises a handle for rotating a rotatable ceramic disc and the handle comprises a stem extending through the housing, and a curved part, the curved part curving at least partly around the housing along the circumference of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Uponor Innovation AB
    Inventors: Keith Clasen, Adam Platt
  • Publication number: 20100127200
    Abstract: A rotary valve for selectively connecting at least one component (51, 52) into a fluid path. According to the invention the inner stator face (111a, 211a) comprises orifices (131b-136b; 231b-236b) and said inner rotor face (112a, 212a) comprises at least a first groove (121, 221), a second groove (122, 222), and a third groove (123, 223) so arranged that the rotary valve can take at least three different rotary positions, in which either both components are bypassed, only one of the components is connected and the other bypassed or both components are connected to a main flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventors: Patrik Kallback, Anders Wilen
  • Publication number: 20100127022
    Abstract: A valve is disclosed for dispensing small quantities of solid material in powder or granular form. The valve includes a valve housing defining a generally vertical flow passage through the housing, and a valve member rotatable in the valve housing about a generally horizontal axis of rotation between open and closed positions. In one embodiment, a slot is provided in the valve body. The valve body and slot are configured such that the slot communicates with both the inlet and the outlet of the flow passage when the valve member is open, and such that the slot communicates with the inlet but not the outlet of the flow passage when the valve member is closed. Other embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: SYMYX TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Antonio Valella, Loic Pluvinage, Pascal Courtin
  • Publication number: 20100124688
    Abstract: A regulator is provided for supplying fluid, e.g., air, to a fluid consuming battery. The regulator includes a valve housing adapted to be in fluid communication with a fluid consuming electrode of a fluid consuming battery cell. The valve housing has an opening. The regulator also includes a valve member disposed in the opening of the housing and configured to move axial relative to the housing between an open valve position and a closed valve position, wherein fluid is able to pass to the fluid consuming electrode in the open valve position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventors: Michael J. Brandon, II, Chad E Law, Paul D Griffith, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100117482
    Abstract: A rotating valve apparatus including a cylindrical casing, a shaft arranged symmetrically in the casing, a member fixedly attached to the shaft and in close fit with the cylindrical casing, defining separated chambers within the casing, at least one outlet fixedly arranged along the circumference of the casing and a plurality of axially arranged inlets, each of which is constantly in fluid communication with a respective one of the separated chambers. The axially arranged inlets are alternately in fluid connection with the outlet fixedly arranged along the circumference of the casing in response to rotation of the shaft and the member with respect to the casing. The member has an elliptically shaped cross section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: ABB RESEARCH LTD.
    Inventors: Gunnar Russberg, Mikael Dahigren, Stefan Thorburn, Bengt Rothman
  • Publication number: 20100108930
    Abstract: Collets for coupling rotary actuators to valves are disclosed. An example collet includes a first plurality of flexible members configured to be coupled to an elongated member and each having a first inner surface and a first outer surface. The first inner surface and the first outer surface define a first cross-sectional shape. The example collet further includes a second plurality of flexible members configured to be coupled to the elongated member and each having a second inner surface and a second outer surface. The second inner surface and the second outer surface define a second cross-sectional shape that is different from the first cross-sectional shape of the first plurality of flexible members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventors: Wade Jonathon Helfer, Jason Gene Olberding
  • Publication number: 20100084595
    Abstract: The present invention provides a line valve. The line valve of the present invention includes a connection pipe (100), which has at least two hose connectors (110) and (120), each of which has a flow passage (111), (121) therein. The line valve further includes a rotary valve (200), which is rotatably provided in the connection pipe, such that communication between the flow passages is selectively controlled depending on rotation of the rotary valve. The rotary valve (200) includes a cover plate (210), which is exposed outside the connection pipe, and a cylindrical rotating body (260), which is rotatably provided in the connection pipe. The cylindrical rotating body has a passage hole (270) therein. An O-ring (280) is provided on the outer surface of the cylindrical rotating body at a position perpendicular to the passage hole. The O-ring is fastened to the cylindrical rotating body by a fastening member (290).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventor: Choon Il Kim
  • Publication number: 20100059701
    Abstract: A pressure balanced rotary valve can be made more compact if the ports on the stator within can be located on a port pitch circle of smaller diameter. In certain circumstances for rotary valves used in pressure swing adsorption devices, it is acceptable for the spacing between the ports to be made smaller than the ports themselves. In a rotary valve comprising variable loading means (e.g. pistons) and fixed loading means (e.g. springs), this can involve reducing the piston size and increasing the load provided by the springs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher R. McLean
  • Patent number: 7669834
    Abstract: A hose end lever controlled ball valve spigot incorporating a quarter turn lever actuated ball valve having a valve housing with a 90° inlet which protrudes 180° away from the valve actuating lever so that the lever handle of the valve is exposed in a vertical plane for easy access and operation. An outlet spout is secured to the valve housing at the valve outlet and extends at an approximate angle of 45° from the valve housing in the same direction as the actuating lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Richard C. Hampton, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20100032604
    Abstract: A rotary valve adapted for injection of a fluid sample into a flow path. According to the invention one and the same valve can be used to input flow from a system pump, a sample pump and a syringe. A loop could be filled from both the sample pump and the syringe and the loop can be emptied by the system pump whereby for example a column is filled. Furthermore the sample pump can be used to pump directly to the column.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: GE Healthcare Bio-Sciences AB
    Inventor: Anders Wilen
  • Publication number: 20100019488
    Abstract: A fluid-tight, quick-connect coupling for connecting two fluid transfer devices that comprises a male mating body inserted into a female sleeve body, and which can be locked into position with a locking mechanism. The coupling also comprises an in-line flow control mechanism wherein variable flow control can be achieved by operating the locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Norris R. Weimer
  • Patent number: 7631505
    Abstract: An improved method of reducing wear dust and torque required to turn a multi-port rotary disc valve utilizes a thrust bearing to hold the valve seat and/or valve disc such that they are not in contact with each other, or have light contact each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignees: Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd., Sumitomo (SHI) Cryogenics of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Seitz, Jin Lin Gao, Ralph C. Longsworth, Mingyao Xu
  • Patent number: 7621502
    Abstract: A butterfly-type valve for controlling toner material flow to a toner container, including, a valve plate which is pivotally disposed in an elongate flow path defined by a passage way, wherein the valve plate is pivotal from a closed position which substantially closes a fluid communication along the path to an open position which maximally permitting fluid communication along the path, a gap area defined between the valve plate and the passage way when the valve plate is in the closed position which allows minimum toner material flow therethrough without compressing the toner material, and a pump for supplying air to the gap area when the valve plate is in the closed position to stop the minimum toner material flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventor: Paul M. Wegman
  • Publication number: 20090261284
    Abstract: The present invention provides a valve that controls a flow of gas or solid objects through a pipe, and particularly a z-valve used in an elevated rail transportation system. The valve includes vanes hinged to a valve stem that fold into a z-shape and retract into the valve body when the valve is open. A valve cap positioned at the top of the valve stem matches the contour of the inner surface of the pipe, allowing unobstructed flow. When the valve is closed, the valve stem is elevated into the interior of the pipe and the valve cap rotates 90° to match the contour at the top, providing a seal. The vanes extend from the z-shape to completely block a cross-section of the pipe, stopping the flow. The flow may be modulated by varying the extension of the vanes to allow a portion of the flow to pass the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Applicant: Flight Rail Corporation
    Inventors: Max P. Schlienger, Larry D. Gibson
  • Publication number: 20090256097
    Abstract: A shut-off valve for plumbing applications for shutting off a duct through which a fluid can flow, includes at least two connection fittings forming a housing, which define a flow path when assembled; and a shut-off body rotatably disposed in the housing, which includes at least two shut-off sections. The shut-off body is movable between a closed position, in which at least one of the shut-off sections of the shut-off body blocks the flow path, and an open position, in which both shut-off sections open the flow path. In order to reduce manufacturing complexity, the shut-off body is formed from a formed sheet metal component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: VIEGA GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Hartung
  • Publication number: 20090224195
    Abstract: A tapered rotary feed valve is manufactured or refurbished for use in feeding materials into a high temperature environment, so as to reduce the time and expense of break-in operation, by shaping the tapered bore of the valve body at ambient temperature to have greater clearance around the rotor in a sector of the valve body that is cooler when the valve is at stable operating temperature. As a result, when the valve first reaches operating temperature after being manufactured or refurbished the rotor and the bore of the valve body nearly fit and can quickly wear in to fit each other closely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: Raymond E. Lackey
  • Publication number: 20090223657
    Abstract: A valve includes a body having an interior and defining at least one inlet passageway and discharge passageway. The valve also includes a flow diverter disposed within the body between the inlet and discharge passageways to receive a fluid from the inlet passageway in an inlet direction. The diverter is adapted to discharge the fluid to at least one discharge passageway in a direction that differs from the inlet direction. The diverter is rotatable to vary the discharge direction. According to one embodiment, the discharge direction is substantially perpendicular to the inlet direction. In another embodiment, a series of fluid passages are formed between the diverter and the interior of the valve body to permit a small firm or thickness of fluid to extend between portions of the diverter and the valve body, thereby forming a fluid bearing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas J. Hollis
  • Publication number: 20090211578
    Abstract: Rotary metering valve (200) with a valve inlet (260), a valve outlet (270) and a rotary valve member (280) for transferring a metered dose of aerosol formulation from the inlet to the outlet, wherein the rotary valve member is provided with an inlet port (290) and an outlet port (300), both in communication with a metering conduit (310) in the rotary valve member, the rotary valve member in sequence being rotatable between at least three positions: inlet position where the inlet port is in communication with the valve inlet and aerosol formulation enters the metering conduit, metering position where both ports are closed preserving a metered volume of aerosol formulation in the metering conduit, outlet position where the outlet port is in communication with the valve outlet and the metered dose of aerosol formulation is dispensed from the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Ian Fletcher
  • Publication number: 20090194726
    Abstract: A scavenging valve assembly is used in a carburetor. The valve assembly includes a throttle valve and a rotary air valve. The throttle valve opens and closes an air-fuel passage. The rotary air valve opens and closes an air passage and has one or more air bore(s). When the rotary air valve begins to rotate, airflow travels through the bore(s) and the size of an opening area that airflow travels through continuously increases in size.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Applicant: Walbro engine Management L.L.C.
    Inventors: Tamio Aihara, Yoshiaki Douyama, Shinichi Ohgane
  • Publication number: 20090188462
    Abstract: A valve apparatus includes a valve shaft, a body, a bearing housing, a fixing device, and an actuator. The body has a flow path therein, and the flow path has an opening degree that is operated by rotation of the valve shaft. The bearing housing rotatably supports the valve shaft, and the bearing housing has a predetermined attachment portion. The fixing device fixes the bearing housing to the body by fastening the predetermined attachment portion of the bearing housing to an outer surface of the body. The actuator is provided to cover the fixing device from outside, and the actuator is fixed to the body and the bearing housing. The actuator applies a driving force to the valve shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hidetoshi Osumi, Katsuya Torii
  • Publication number: 20090189108
    Abstract: A valve assembly is disclosed providing a disk valve, a retaining clip configuration, and a bonnet nut. The disk valve comprises a moveable disk having a pair of recesses that is rotatable relative to a stationary disk to regulate the flow of a fluid through two ports in communication with the disks. The retaining clip configuration comprises a hose clip engaging a retaining segment on a valve housing and two hoses to connect the two hoses to two ports on the valve housing. The bonnet nut provides a tactile resistance to an applied torque when a portion of the valve cartridge assembly is rotated in relation to the valve housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventors: David H. Ritter, Chad J. Cochart, Douglas J. Brouwer, Christopher M. Shay, Brian S. Core, Michael W. Smith
  • Publication number: 20090139553
    Abstract: Disclosed is a dishwasher, which reduces a pressure loss generated from a valve device to converting a channel. The dishwasher includes a washing tub to wash dishes; a sump installed under the washing tub to store washing water; a pump assembly installed at one side of the sump to pump the washing water; upper and lower channels connected to the pump assembly; and upper and lower spray arms connected to the upper and lower channels to spray the washing water to the inside of the washing tub, and a valve device rotated around a rotary shaft parallel with the flowing direction of the washing water to selectively open the upper and lower channels is provided between the pump assembly and the upper and lower channels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Nung Seo PARK
  • Publication number: 20090134350
    Abstract: A shaft drive arrangement including a drive member (402), a driven shaft (100); a disengageable drive mechanism, (202, 204, 302), adapted to connect the shaft and drive member, the mechanism including one or more engagement recesses (304) and one or more engagement members (202, 204), each engagement member being adapted to cooperate with an engagement recess; and a disengagement member (312) adapted to disengage the or each engagement member from the engagement recess with which it is engaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: David John Ammunson
  • Publication number: 20090120207
    Abstract: A flow control valve has upstream fluid pressure outlets provided between inner and outer circumferential surfaces of an upstream retainer, which is attached to an upstream inner surface of a valve body. A second conduit is provided between inner and outer surfaces of the valve body on the upstream side of the valve body. First conduits are formed between the valve body and the upstream retainer. Downstream side fluid pressure outlets are provided between inner and outer surfaces of a downstream retainer, which is mounted to the inner surface of the valve body. A fourth conduit is provided between the inner and outer surfaces of the valve body on the downstream side of the valve body. Third conduits are formed between the valve body and the downstream retainer. A differential pressure sensor is attached to the outer surface of the valve body and to the second and fourth conduits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Applicant: Yamatake Corporation
    Inventors: Hideo Ohtani, Motohiro Furuya
  • Publication number: 20090114296
    Abstract: When supplying a fluid to a first flow channel (11a) of a valve (1), air is introduced into an air cylinder (3a) from an air introduction channel (35a). An operating plate (5a) thus slides and drives a shaft (4a) to move backward to such a position that a second sealing surface (8a) of a sealing plate (6a) abuts against a wall (13a). An air cylinder (3b) is moved forward to such a position that a sealing surface (7b) of a sealing plate (6b) abuts against a wall (12b), thereby sealing an opening (14b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventor: Einosuke Tsuda
  • Patent number: 7510167
    Abstract: An isolation damper capable of forming an airtight or zero-leakage seal. The damper includes an annular frame or frame and a flexible seal member that extends around an inner surface of the frame. The seal member is at least partially embedded or integrated into the frame and includes an exposed surface. The seal member can be a single or multi-component seal member. A rotatable shaft extends across the interior annular aperture of the annular frame, and a blade is coupled to the shaft. The blade that is attached to the shaft is rotatable between closed and open positions. An outer circumferential edge of the blade engages the exposed surface of the seal member when the blade is rotated to a closed position thereby forming an air tight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Daniel Environmental, Co. LLC
    Inventors: Timothy E. Malki, Daniel R. Olson
  • Patent number: 7506858
    Abstract: A butterfly valve comprising a valve body having a passage, a valve shaft assembly, a plate, and a tube is provided. The valve shaft assembly comprises first and second shaft portions in opposing spaced relation, an intermediate portion therebetween, and a support plate secured to the valve shaft assembly. The first and second shaft portions rotatably couple the valve shaft assembly to the valve body. The intermediate member forms a chamber in fluidic communication with the passage. The support plate is disposed within the chamber at a closed valve position approximately perpendicular to a direction of fluid flow through the passage. The plate is secured to the support plate and has an inner portion and a flange radially outward of the inner portion. The flange is directed away from the support plate. The tube is disposed within the passage and friction or clearance fit over a portion of the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Woodward Governor Company
    Inventor: Barry T. Brinks
  • Publication number: 20090014244
    Abstract: A system in some embodiments includes a machine block comprising features configured to support moving machine components within a lubricating fluid, wherein the machine block includes an integral valve block configured to route the lubricating fluid through a first filter without a second filter and configured to route the lubricating fluid through the second filter without the first filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Cavarello, Edward S. Czechowski, Robert M. Kolodziej, Michael A. Nuchereno
  • Publication number: 20080265200
    Abstract: A change valve for an air compressor is combined with the vent tube of an air compressor, including a connector, a valve base, a valve body, an anti-leak gasket, a sleeve and a button. The valve base has at least two connect tubes, with a guide tube connected to each of the connect tubes. The button can be turned to rotate the valve base together with the valve body, so the vent hole of the valve body can be aligned to the air hole of either of the two connect tubes. If the air compressor operates, compresses air may flow in the valve body via the air hole into the guide tube via the vent hole of the connect tubes, and finally into an object. In this way, interchanging the position of the vent hole of the valve body enables the change valve connected to objects having different air valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Min-Hsieng Wang
  • Publication number: 20080258094
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention feature a method and device for controlling the flow of fluid. One embodiment of the device for controlling the flow of fluid comprises a rotor, stator and compression means. The rotor has a rotor fluid communication means and at least one rotor load bearing, surface. The rotor load bearing surface sealably engages a stationary load bearing surface. The rotor is capable of assuming a first position and a second position by rotation. The stator has a stationary load bearing surface having stator fluid communication means. The stationary load bearing surface sealably engages the rotor load bearing surface and permits rotation of the rotor with respect to the stator. At least one of the rotor bearing surface and said stator load bearing surface has a diamond-like carbon-silica coating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2005
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Applicant: Waters Investments Limited
    Inventors: James E. Usowicz, Theodore C. Ciolkosz, Marc Lemelin
  • Publication number: 20080245077
    Abstract: A rotary disc valve unit and refrigerators containing a rotary disc valve unit that has multiple valves, in which at least one rotary valve has ports connecting to the regenerator and at least one rotary valve has ports connecting to the warm ends of one or more pulse tubes where the rotary valve with ports for the regenerator has lighter contact than the rotary valve with ports for the pulse tubes. The valve face is divided into an inner area with ports for the pulse tubes and an outer area with ports for the regenerator, the inner area having a greater sealing pressure than the outer area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2005
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicants: SUMITOMO HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD., SHI-APD CRYOGENICS, INC.
    Inventors: Mingyao Xu, Eric Seitz
  • Publication number: 20080178953
    Abstract: An improved abrasion resistant rotor assembly and valve and system related thereto is disclosed. The assembly includes a rotor body defining an annular opening which surrounds a drive shaft and a plurality of vanes radially extending from the rotor body. The rotor is made up of a unitary ceramic component, such as silicon carbide. The valve also includes a body for defining a bore that receives the rotor assembly, where the body bore is likewise comprised of a hardened ceramic material. This valve may thus be used to convey abrasive particulate in an efficient manner from a supply container to a pressured line for further processing or disposal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventors: Larry Jon Weenum, Alexandru S. Beloiu, Robert J. LeDain, Daniel E. Charhut
  • Patent number: 7404543
    Abstract: A valve actuator is disclosed for use with short throw valves. The actuator includes a plate perpendicular to the valve stem that has a slot formed of regions having different radii of curvature centered on the valve stem. An eccentric cam is attached to a handle mounted on the valve stem. The cam extends through the slot and is rotatable for positioning at a radius corresponding to the radius of the different slot regions. When the cam is rotated so that it may traverse a slot region, the handle can be turned to move the valve closing member through an angle subtended by the slot region. This permits the valve to be opened or closed in a step-wise fashion and prevents rapid opening and closing of the valve that can cause a water hammer effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: Richard R. Weston, Terrance M. Carom
  • Patent number: 7302930
    Abstract: The present invention utilizes a single shaft with cam-actuated control valves and one linear solenoid for control of air flow control vales in the air induction system for a V-type engine. According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the single shaft and one sensor are utilized to activate all control valves. Additionally, the present invention can also be used in in-line engines. Advantageously, the present invention utilizes one moving shaft and sensor to activate all control valves on both sides of the intake manifold without restricting air flow by locating the shaft in the middle of the manifold—lower housing. Further, the control valves are not attached with screws, thus eliminating a tolerance stack-up at assembly problem. The air induction sub-system can be manufactured with metals or plastic, or any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Chrysler LLC
    Inventor: Kenneth D. Dudek
  • Patent number: 7287550
    Abstract: An assembly consists of a valve shaft, a valve member and an adjusting device which can alter the angle alignment of the valve member relative to the valve shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: TRW Automotive GmbH
    Inventor: Arnd Pfeifer
  • Publication number: 20070246678
    Abstract: A rotary valve assembly for use in a process provides fluid communication and enables variable conduit interconnection and flow passage. Process cycle time is variable by means of rotational speed of through one or more apertures of a third valve member and respective alignment with one or more apertures of a first valve member and one or more apertures of a second valve member. Process step time is variable by means of adjustable position and variable alignment of aperture(s) of the first valve member and the second valve member. The rotary valve assembly provides for gradual transition and flow passage between process steps, flow metering, mixing, reversal, or any combination thereof. Process systems including the rotary valve include an adsorption process, humidity control process, heat pump process and/or water purification process among others.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Publication date: October 25, 2007
    Inventor: Gregory A. Michaels
  • Patent number: 7261126
    Abstract: A control valve has a valve body and a flow control element preferably in the form of a disc, the valve body defining at least one inlet passage, the inlet passage culminating in an opening which is surrounded at least partially by a flow control surface, and the flow control element is so arranged as to be able to pass close to the flow control surface and across the opening to adjust the flow rate of at least one fluid which is caused to pass through the valve body, wherein the flow control element is constrained within the valve body by a stopping member, the stopping member being adapted to allow a positive clearance to exist between the flow control element and the flow control surface. The stopping member is preferably adjustable, allowing the positive clearance to be adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Emech Control Limited
    Inventors: Peter James Jeromson, James Raymond Bilyard, David John Parkinson
  • Patent number: 7195229
    Abstract: In a direct injection type automatic sampler, a sampling needle having a liquid sample collected from a sample vessel by using suction force of a pump is inserted into an injection port. Then, a flow path-switching valve is rotated to switch a flow path to make a flow of mobile phase liquid pass through a loop to thereby introduce the collected sample into a column. The injection port is directly incorporated in the flow path-switching valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventor: Yoshiaki Maeda
  • Patent number: 7159848
    Abstract: Systems having clamping structures are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Reid Alyn Brennen
  • Patent number: 7140593
    Abstract: A damper assembly that produces bi-directional damper door movement from a single-direction motor is provided. Bi-directional rotation of the damper door is enabled by a cam slot on an end of the damper door that is engaged by a motor-driven drive cam having a drive pin extending into the cam slot. As the single-direction motor collectively rotates the drive cam and the drive pin, the drive pin reciprocates within the cam slot. This causes sealing flanges and the damper from the damper door to alternatively engage under a positive pressure and disengage from one another as the damper door is rotated bi-directionally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventors: James E. Pearson, Robert J. Van der Linde, Thomas J. Davern
  • Patent number: 7093817
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention, a shape memory alloy (“SMA”)-actuated flow controller comprises a number of grille members, each having a long axis and being slideable relative to one another parallel to that long axis. The SMA-actuated flow controller also includes a frame configured to guide the number of grille members, and an actuator disposed within the frame to move at least one of the number of grille members for varying a size of an aperture. Further, the actuator includes an SMA actuator that includes a number of SMA elements each connecting one grille number to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Alfmeier Prazision AG Baugruppen Und Systemlosungen
    Inventors: Roderick MacGregor, Andrei Szilagyi, Peter Emery Von Behrens
  • Patent number: 7083158
    Abstract: A system connectable to a water line for controlling the flow of water includes an underground housing, a shut-off mechanism disposed within the housing and connected to the water lines, and a controlling mechanism including a wand for sending a signal to the shut-off mechanism and thereby open and close the system. The shut-off mechanism includes a motor, an actuator interface, and a drive shaft operably connected to each other wherein the drive shaft rotates based upon the signal from the wand so that water flow can be adjusted as desired by an operator. The controlling mechanism includes an antenna and transceiver for communicating with the wand. The actuator interface is coupled to the antenna for processing and communicating a signal received from the wand and transmitting same to the motor and drive shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventors: James E. Burt, Frederick D. Ireland
  • Patent number: 7073774
    Abstract: This invention discloses an air intake adjusting assembly for pneumatic tools, which rearranges the air intake adjusting assembly between the main body and the air intake section of a pneumatic tool, such that the air intake adjusting assembly will not be covered when a user is operating the pneumatic tool, and also provides a comfortable grip for users. The air intake adjusting assembly according to the present invention comprises an air intake adjusting knob being installed at the external periphery of an air intake member for adjusting the diameter of an adjusting hole of the air intake member by steplessly rotating the air intake adjusting knob as to adjust the air flow of the pneumatic tool and achieve the effect of steplessly controlling the rotation speed of the pneumatic tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Sunmatch Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Lung-Hui Chen
  • Patent number: 7011292
    Abstract: Bi-leaved valve apparatus for controlling bulk material flow from a bulk material metering apparatus. A bi-leaved valve apparatus comprises a cylindrical flow tube defining an axial material passageway, an outlet and a flow tube actuation surface. A valve support is mounted about the flow tube adjacent the flow tube outlet such that the valve support and flow tube are relatively rotatable. A pair of leaves are attached to the valve support and are sized to seal the flow tube outlet. The leaves are movable between open and closed orientations and have a valve actuation surface adjacent the flow tube actuation surface. An actuator causes relative rotational movement of the flow tube and valve support such that rotation to a first relative position causes the flow tube and valve actuation surfaces to open the leaves and rotation to a further relative position causes the leaves to close. The valve apparatus may be used with bulk material metering machines such as vertical form/fill/seal packaging machines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Spee-Dee Packaging Machinery, Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Hill
  • Patent number: 7007922
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rotating regulating device, especially for a valve comprising a pivotable or rotatable valve body. Said device comprises at least one actuating device for rotating a regulating element which can be connected to the valve body in a moveable manner. The aim of the invention is to improve one such rotating regulating device in such a way that in its precise and reproducible, and can be especially automatically actuated. In order to achieve this, the regulating element is a rotating collar which is rotationally positioned in relation to a bearing collar, and the actuating device comprises at least one mechanism which converts a linear movement into a rotational movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Cooper Cameron Corporation
    Inventors: Klaus Biester, Norbert Lenz
  • Patent number: 6994100
    Abstract: A metering valve for metering dry powder material such as cement. The interior of the valve housing is expanded outward beginning at the sealing surface or lip located adjacent to the inlet opening, thereby forming an enlarged gap between the valve sleeve and housing to discourage powder accumulation in the gap and interference of large bulk particles and foreign materials with the sleeve and housing. An eccentric intermediate sleeve aligns the valve sleeve relative to the housing prior to rotation of the valve sleeve by either moving the valve sleeve away from or toward the valve inlet. The valve sleeve has a rubberized layer to seal with the housing's sealing surface or lip. A sleeve shield blocks entry of powder into the mouths of the vacuum breakers to prevent plugging of the vacuum breakers. Ball bearings are employed to suspend the valve sleeve within the housing, making the valve sleeve easier to rotate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Inventor: Thomas E. Allen
  • Patent number: 6969045
    Abstract: The present invention relates to valves with small dead volumes. A valve in accordance with the present invention has a ferrule (7) which receives a plurality of fluid lines (33) which lead to outlets on an end surface (25) of said ferrule (7) and a movable selector body (15) which has a fluid groove (37, 37A) on a surface (23) which is in contact with the end surface (25) of said ferrule (7). Means are provided for exerting a clamping force on said ferrule (7) in order to simultaneously clamp all the fluid lines (33).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Amersham Biosciences AB
    Inventors: Owe Salven, Jan Kranse, Patrik Kallback
  • Patent number: 6929237
    Abstract: The invention is therefore directed to a rotary valve actuating system coupled to a pipeline for a pressurized fluid, the actuating system being coupled to the rotary valve to selectively cause operation of the valve. The valve actuating system comprises at least two reservoirs having an amount of an operating liquid in a first portion being coupled to an external source of pressurized fluid in a second portion thereof. A slideable piston is positioned within each of the reservoirs to isolate the first and second portions, and upon application of pressure from the external pressurized fluid against the slideable piston, operating liquid is supplied to actuate the rotary valve. In this manner, the operating liquid is isolated from the external source of pressurized fluid, such as supplied from the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Flo-Tork, Inc.
    Inventor: James R. Porter
  • Patent number: 6918573
    Abstract: A high pressure microvalve for connecting a first fluid-bearing conduit to a second fluid-bearing conduit is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Sandia National Laboratories
    Inventor: Ronald F. Renzi
  • Patent number: 6902704
    Abstract: An injection pump assembly 10 in a chemical delivery system for simultaneously delivering reagents into a combinatorial reactor system having multiple injectors. The assembly 10 has a plurality of injectors 12, each injector 12 being in fluid communication with one of the multiple reactors. Each injector 12 has (1) a pump 14 in which a plunger 18 sealingly moves to ingest, store and discharge a flushing solvent 20; (2) a pipette assembly 22 for loading, storing, and discharging one or more reagents into one of the reactors in the combinatorial reactor system, first and second reservoirs for retaining some of the reagents; (3) one or more hollow needles 32, each for selectively delivering a reagent 24 to the first 28 or the second 24 reservoir; (4) a first valve 34 positioned downstream of the first 28 reservoir; and (5) a second valve 36 positioned downstream of the second 30 reservoir. When each valve 34, 36 is in a closed position, the reagents 24, 48 can be stored in isolation from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Equistar Chemicals, L.P
    Inventor: Ronnie E. Wilson