Abstract: Actuation systems and methods are disclosed. An apparatus includes a system including a flow cell receptacle and a valve drive assembly including a shape memory alloy actuator including a pair of shape memory alloy wires and a flow cell disposable within the flow cell receptacle and having a membrane valve. The system actuates the membrane valve, via the shape memory alloy actuator, by causing a voltage to be applied to a first one of the shape memory alloy wires and the system not applying the voltage to a second one of the shape memory alloy wires.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a manual gas valve. The manual gas valve may include at least one internal spring and a valve plug. The internal spring may be independent from an external spring and a valve stem. The internal spring may be positioned in a constant installed height. The internal spring includes a constant spring force applied to the valve plug. The one or more manual gas valves may be used in a variety of applications.

Abstract: A solenoid operated modular valve including a valve body, a valve member slidingly received in the valve body, and a solenoid that moves the valve member relative to the valve body along a longitudinal axis between an open position and a closed position. The valve body has an end face, a side face, and an inner bore. An outlet port in the end face is disposed in fluid communication with the inner bore. An inlet port in the side face is disposed in fluid communication with the inner bore. The valve body includes an O-ring valve seat that is positioned longitudinally between the inner bore and the outlet port. The valve member includes a tapered end that has a frustoconical shape and a valve member abutment surface. The valve member abutment surface contacts the O-ring valve seat when the valve member is in the closed position.

Abstract: An inflation valve for inflating containers with non-rigid walls comprising a tubular body defining a passage with a first opening at one end and a second opening at its opposite end, adapted to be secured to a container, a sealing disc adapted to sealingly close off the second opening to the passage in the tubular body, and adapted to open the second opening mechanically when an inflation device is inserted into the passage through the first opening and thus gas may be passed into the container through the second opening, thereby moving the sealing disc away from the second opening, a guide member located within the passage of the tubular body; a spring adapted to assist the sealing disc to close off the second opening; and a gasket and/or sealing ring adapted to assist the sealing disc to close off the second opening.

Abstract: A warming blanket is provided that includes a first sheet and a second sheet sealed at least along a common edge. An air inlet is provided on the warming blanket where the first sheet and the second sheet are not sealed. An inlet opening device is attached to the inlet opening. The inlet opening device separates the first sheet from the second sheet at the inlet opening in the absence of an opposing force. Methods of forming and using the warming blanket are also provided.

Abstract: An automate fluid flow control system includes a relief valve for being sealedly disposed within a fluid chamber in an immovable manner to seal a flow of fluid flowing from a fluid inlet to a fluid outlet, and an actuator. The relief valve has a fluid passage for controlling a flow rate of the fluid passing from the fluid chamber to the fluid outlet, and a valve stopper sealedly closing the fluid passage for controlling the fluid flowing from the fluid chamber to the fluid outlet, wherein the valve stopper is driven to move between a closed position that the valve stopper is sealedly retained to close the fluid passage for blocking said fluid passing to the fluid outlet, and an opened position that the valve stopper is moved to unseal the fluid passage for allowing the fluid passing to the fluid outlet through the fluid passage.

Abstract: In a magnet system for MRI imaging comprising a superconducting magnet mounted within a cryogen vessel, apparatus is provided for controlling egress of cryogen gas from the cryogen vessel. The apparatus comprises a controlled valve linking the interior of the cryogen vessel to a gas exit path; and a controller arranged to control the valve. The valve is arranged such that a gas pressure in the cryogen vessel exceeding a gas pressure in the gas exit path acts on the valve to open the valve and allow venting of cryogen gas. The valve is also arranged such that a gas pressure in the cryogen vessel inferior to a gas pressure in the gas exit path acts on the valve to urge it closed, so restricting flow of gas into the cryogen vessel.

Abstract: The invention relates to an actively controlled valve (1) having a housing (6) and comprising a displaceably supported valve plate (4) having aperture openings (4a) and a counter plate (2) disposed in a fixed manner relative to the housing (6) and having aperture openings (2a), wherein the valve plate (4) is slidably supported relative to the counter plate (2), such that the penetration openings (2a, 4a) form an open or closed aperture (24), and comprising a drive device (8) driving the valve plate (4), wherein the valve plate (4) is connected to the drive device (8) by means of a drive spring (7), and an actuatable clamping device (10) is provided for fixing the location of the valve plate (4).

Abstract: A valve body arrangement for a hydraulic or pneumatic valve comprises two elements between which a valve body is retained. The two elements are welded together in a first region, preferably by the laser transmission method, and clamp the valve body in a second region with a force.

Abstract: A regeneration valve for a hydraulic circuit may include a valve element for controlling flow between first, second, and third ports. The valve element may be formed with a flow slot that generates a slot flow force when hydraulic fluid flows therethrough. The flow slot may be configured so that a predetermined fluid low rate may generate a slot flow force sufficient to actuate the valve element from a first position to a second position. In the second position, the valve element may divert a portion of flow from the second port to the first port is diverted to the third port. The flow slot may be configured so that the fluid exits the slot at an exit angle that varies as the valve element moves between first and second positions, thereby to provide a more uniform flow force across the range of travel of the valve element.

Abstract: An electromagnetic drive for a valve includes a housing comprising at least one electromagnetic circuit comprising a coil wound onto a coil support, a valve closing member, at least one core, at least one magnetizable reflux member, an armature having an annular shape at least on a side facing away from the valve closing member, an adjustment device having an adjustment screw, and a device to fix the armature in a non-energized state. The armature moves between a first end position and a second end position so as to act at least indirectly on the valve closing member. The adjustment device adjusts a magnetic force. The adjustment screw is insertable through the at least the magnetizable reflux member or through the core into the armature. Supplying the coil with an electric current causes the armature to move into the first end position or into the second end position.

Abstract: A fuel system valve assembly may include a housing, a spring, and a body. The housing may have a fuel passage defined in part or more by a fuel passage wall. The fuel passage wall may have a seat and a cylindrical section. The cylindrical section may have a constant diameter and may be located downstream of the seat. In use, the body may reciprocate linearly in the housing between an open position and a closed position. The body may be biased to the closed position by the spring. The body may abut the seat when the body is in the closed position.

Abstract: A method for providing portable biological testing capabilities free from biological contamination from an environment outside the device is provided. The method includes providing components configured to be assembled together to seal a volume against passage of biological materials between the volume and an environment outside the volume. The method further includes sterilizing the components and providing a sterilized culture medium. The method further includes assembling the components together with the sterilized culture medium within the volume. The method further includes sterilizing the assembled components by elevating the temperature. The method further includes flowing gas from within the volume to the environment while at an elevated temperature.

Abstract: A bi-directional fluid safety valve for preventing spillage when filling tanks, vessels, fill lines, and or hoses for transportation of fluids in pipelines or tubulars with a tubular body with an external body and an internal bore having a fluid flow path from a first end to a second end, the first and second members concentrically disposed and moveable along a longitudinal axis within the tubular body; with means such as springs to longitudinally bias the first member toward the second member and means to longitudinally bias said second member toward said first member. Also provided are embodiments for connection of the tubular body to alternative connection systems.

Abstract: A gas metering valve (1) having at least one valve seat (2) and at least one closure member (3) which can be pressed against the valve seat, the closure member in a maximum open position is raised at least in regions from the valve seat (2) and in a maximum closed position is pressed against the valve seat. The gas metering valve (1) has an adjusting device (5) which is spring-loaded by a spring loading device (4) of the gas metering valve (1) for adjusting the closure member (3) in a closing direction (6) from the maximum open position into the maximum closed position. The spring loading device (4) of the adjusting device (5), preferably when viewed in the closing direction (6), has at least two spring bodies (7a, 7b) which are connected mechanically in series, the spring bodies (7a, 7b) have elastic characteristics which are different from each other.

Abstract: A check valve is provided capable of reducing the effects of fluid hammer and is easily replaceable and repairable. In one aspect of the invention, a check valve includes a housing with a passage having a check valve positioned therein to permit fluid flow in one direction while preventing fluid flow in the reverse direction. The housing includes an inlet port and a valve seat. The check valve includes a valve disc connected to a stem. The valve disc moves from a closed position engaged with the valve seat to an open position disengaged from the valve seat. The distance traveled by the valve disc away from the valve in a full open position is less than twenty five percent of the diameter of the inlet port.

Abstract: A check valve is provided which may be installed horizontally or in other non-vertical orientations, and used with variable frequency drives and other applications without the valve disk becoming misaligned. In one aspect, the valve provides a housing with an inner surface and a passage, a flange within the housing which divides the housing into upstream and downstream portions, and extending around the inner surface, defining a valve seat and a valve aperture, a poppet positioned in the downstream portion, including a valve disk and a valve stem extending from the valve disk, the valve disk engaging the valve seat, being moveable, and being resiliently biased in the closed position against the valve seat to inhibit fluid flow in a first direction, and a guide removably mounted on the inner surface of the housing, the guide receiving the valve stem of the poppet valve as the poppet valve moves.

Abstract: A swing gate valve is provided having a swing gate, a pivotable shaft having a swing arm disposed thereon such that rotation of the shaft causes rotation of the swing arm, a spring to urge the swing gate toward its closed position, a trigger assembly for securing the swing gate in its open position and for triggering the shaft to rotate including an actuator having a shaft and a receiver in the swing gate to receive the shaft, wherein when the shaft is in an extended position, the shaft is disposed in the receiver and the swing gate is locked in its open position, and wherein actuation of the actuator causes the shaft to withdraw to a retracted position out of the receiver, wherein the spring causes the pivotable shaft to rotate to move the swing gate to its closed position.

Abstract: An electronic control valve having a valve stationary portion defining a substantially central bore extending along an axis of the valve, and a valve train including a movable member of the valve. The valve train moveable member is disposed in the central bore, and the valve train is adapted for reciprocal movement along the axis. A mass is engaged is with the valve train and adapted for reciprocal movement along the axis. A biasing means is disposed between the valve train and the mass. Reciprocal movements of the mass along the axis induced by forces exerted along the axis by the valve train are transmitted through the biasing means, whereby reciprocal movement of the valve train along the axis is dynamically reduced by the mass.

Abstract: A modular relief valve having an increased number of exhaust passages is provided. The modular configuration allows for the entire relief valve to be installed as a unit into the relief valve cavity on a service valve. The relief valve includes at least two exhaust passages. The additional passages allow a greater flow rate than traditional relief valves.

Abstract: A flow path switching valve is disclosed that can be operated remotely simply by turning flow on and off. The switching valve may be incorporated into the body of a high pressure nozzle. In one embodiment a mid portion of the valve body has at least one passage therein leading from a central axial bore to first and second external ports. A poppet member received in the central axial bore directs fluid flow in a first position to the first external ports. The poppet member, when in a second position, closes the central axial bore through the outlet end of the valve body and permits fluid flow through the second set of external ports. Selection of the different flow paths is made by simply reducing flow through the valve below a predetermined fluid flow threshold and then increasing the flow rate above the threshold.

Abstract: A flow path switching valve is disclosed that can be operated remotely simply by turning flow on and off. A mid portion of the body has at least one passage therein leading from a central axial bore to one or more external ports each having a tractor nozzle. The valve outlet connects the axial bore to a cleaning nozzle. A poppet member is received in the central axial bore. In a first position, the poppet member directs fluid flow through the outlet to the cleaning nozzle connected to the outlet. The poppet member, when in a second position, closes the central axial bore through the outlet end of the valve body and permits fluid flow through the tractor nozzles. Selection of the different flow paths is made by simply reducing flow through the valve below a predetermined fluid flow threshold and then increasing the flow rate above the threshold.

Abstract: The invention concerns a valve (1) for measuring a liquid or powdery product, comprising a fixed conduit (5) for supplying the product; a closure (13) mounted at a lower end (11) of the conduit (5); and a coaxial sleeve (15), mounted outside the conduit (5), having a lower end (19) shaped into a valve seat, said sleeve (15) being mobile in translation relative to the conduit (5) between a so-called closed position wherein the valve seat (19) co-operates tightly with the closure (13), and a so-called open position wherein the valve seat (19) is spaced apart from the closure (13) to allow the product to flow.

Abstract: An assembly for culturing cells includes a housing defining a reservoir for containing cell culture media and an opening in fluid communication with the reservoir. The cell culture assembly further includes a filter valve assembly configured to sealingly engage the opening. The filter valve assembly includes a flexible membrane, a contiguous side wall, an end wall, and a microbial filter. The end wall has an opening and extends across one end of the side wall to form a major cavity within the side wall and the end wall. The flexible membrane has a slit spanning the membrane and is disposable within the major cavity such that the membrane sealingly divides the major cavity into (i) a chamber formed between the end wall and the membrane and (ii) a minor cavity formed by the membrane and a portion of the side wall. The minor cavity is in fluid communication with the reservoir.

Abstract: A uni-directional valve for an air path of a ventilation device. A flexible valve element is held biased in a housing of the uni-directional valve to close at least one air passage located in a sealing section and with a sealing portion to at least partially open the air passage if the valve element is impinged by a sufficient air pressure against the bias. The valve element is designed as cylinder and the sealing portion is located on the lateral surface of the cylinder. The sealing portion is located opposite to a support portion located on the lateral surface of the cylinder. The support portion interacts with a support section of the housing. The distance between the support section and the sealing section of the housing is smaller than the distance between the support portion and the sealing portion in the unbiased state of the valve element.

Abstract: An on-off valve that can operate between an open position and a closed position. The on-off valve has a valve body with a cylindrical valve cavity, an inlet, an outlet, and in an open position the inlet is in communication with the outlet. A cylindrical valve cartridge is sealably mounted within a chamber of the valve cavity and has a central cavity facing the valve cavity and a bore forming communication with an atmosphere external to the valve cartridge. A pin extension is movably mounted within the bore. A pin bushing and a pin seal are mounted within the central cavity, and an actuating pin is movably mounted at least partially within the central cavity. A valve poppet is slidably mounted within the valve cavity. In a closed position a first end portion of the valve poppet closes the first outlet, and in an open position the first end portion opens the first outlet. A bias element is mounted to exert a bias force to and urge the valve poppet against the valve cartridge.

Abstract: A plastic formed inflation mouth structure comprises a plastic formed body which is integrally formed with an inflation mouth by plastic injection molding. The inflation mouth includes an inflation apparatus passage and a restoration unit that are integrally formed. The inflation apparatus passage unit is formed with a notch for passage of an inflation apparatus to perform the inflation or deflation. The restoration unit applies an elastic restoration force onto the notch to make the notch assuredly enclose the inflation apparatus during the inflation and ensure a high airtightness when inflation is stopped.

Abstract: The invention proposes an arrangement for burning blast furnace off-gas from a bleeder valve. It comprises a bleeder valve (20) having a fixed hollow valve body (22) defining an outlet (26) and a valve seat and a movable obturator (24) that cooperates with the valve seat for closing the bleeder valve and releasing blast furnace off-gas through the outlet. The arrangement includes an apparatus for combustion of blast furnace off-gas released by the bleeder valve (20). This apparatus is characterized by an ignition device (32, 38, 40, 42, 44) that is arranged on or adjacent the valve body or the moveable obturator of the bleeder valve (20) itself. The ignition device (32, 38, 40, 42, 44) has its spatial ignition range located downstream the outlet in a region where blast furnace off-gas released through the outlet mixes with ambient air when the obturator is in an open position so as to allow open-air combustion of blast furnace off-gas released into ambient air at the location of the bleeder valve.

Abstract: A valve unit has two pressure adjusting mechanisms, each of which includes a flexible film. The flexible film of one of the two pressure adjusting mechanisms is installed on one side surface of the valve unit and the flexible film of the other pressure adjusting mechanism is installed on the other side surface of the valve unit. These flexible films are disposed so that, when projected on a first plane that is parallel to the one side surface and the other side surface, their projected figures partly overlap each other. When two valve units are installed in the print head to adjoin each other, the flexible film on one of the adjoining valve units and the opposing flexible film on the other valve unit are disposed so that, when projected on a second plane that is perpendicular to the first plane, their projected figures at least partly overlap each other.

Abstract: A constant-residual-pressure valve is disposed in a communication passage connecting a high-pressure fuel passage through which pressurized fuel flows with a low-pressure fuel passage through which the fuel flows toward a high-pressure pump. The constant-residual-pressure valve includes a valve body, a spring, and a spring stopper. The valve body can sit on a valve seat formed in an inner passage. The spring biases the valve body toward the valve seat. The spring stopper has a downstream-orifice of which flow passage area is smaller than that of a passage upstream of the valve seat. Thereby, cavitation between the valve body and the valve seat is less generated.

Abstract: A pressure-relief assembly for adjusting pressure within a washing chamber of a washer.

Abstract: A constant residual pressure valve is provided with a valve body, a valve seat, a communication passage, and an orifice upstream of the valve seat. A cylindrical passage is arranged between the orifice and the valve seat in such a manner as to introduce cavitation bubbles toward the valve seat. The cavitation bubbles are generated in the fuel discharged from the orifice. When the cavitation babbles are collapsed, the foreign matters accumulated on the third valve seat 63 and the valve body 69 are removed.

Abstract: A warming blanket is provided that includes a first sheet and a second sheet sealed at least along a common edge. An air inlet is provided on the warming blanket where the first sheet and the second sheet are not sealed. An inlet opening device is attached to the inlet opening. The inlet opening device separates the first sheet from the second sheet at the inlet opening in the absence of an opposing force. Methods of forming and using the warming blanket are also provided.

Abstract: A microfluidic connection comprising a carrier element having a microfluidic channel fixed between a feeding element and a backplate. The feeding element comprises a channel adopted for feeding a fluid into the microfluidic channel of the carrier element. The backplate comprises a recess arranged opposing the feeding element and comprising an elastic thrust piece.

Abstract: A hydraulic manifold has features adapted to the needs of hybrid vehicle applications. In one embodiment, multifunction valves selectively regulate fluid flow among primary and auxiliary flow paths. A normally closed butterfly valve is biased by a relatively small secondary biasing force against rotation in first and second (opposite) directions, and by a relatively large principal biasing force against rotation in the first direction past a transitional angular position at which the principal biasing force takes effect. An actuator selectively controls the transitional angular position and the magnitude of the principal biasing force. In the first direction, flow must overcome only the secondary biasing force to pass the valve. In the second direction, any flow sufficient to overcome the secondary biasing force but not the principal biasing force will divide into a first flow passing the valve and a second flow induced to enter an auxiliary path upstream.

Abstract: A valve (50) comprising a first part (401) defining a first array of apertures and a second part (2) defining a second array of apertures, the first part (401) being moveable laterally relative to the second part (2) between a closed configuration in which the first and second arrays of apertures are not registered to substantially prevent passage of a fluid through the valve and an open configuration in which the first and second arrays of apertures are registered to allow passage of fluid, wherein the first and second parts (401, 2) are configured to lock in the closed configuration in response to a pressure differential across the valve (50). In one embodiment, the first part (401) is configured to be sealed against the second part (2) by a pressure differential across the valve when the first and second parts (401,2) are locked in the closed configuration.

Abstract: A relief valve assembly to relieve overpressure of a pressurized fluid. In accordance with some embodiments, the assembly comprises a housing with an inlet and an outlet to form a conduit for a pressurized fluid. A normally closed valve member is axially displaceable within the housing to engage a valve seat to prevent a flow of the pressurized fluid along the conduit. A biasing member applies a bias force to the valve member to retain the valve member against the valve seat. A piston within the valve member contactingly engages the pressurized fluid. A mechanically collapsible member resists axial movement of the piston responsive to said contacting engagement of the pressurized fluid. The piston and collapsible member decouple the bias force supplied by the biasing spring member upon the valve member from a force upon the valve member applied by the pressurized fluid, thereby maintaining a bubble-tight seal.

Abstract: An additive-storing tank assembly includes: a tank body having an additive-storing space defined in the tank body, in which an additive is stored; a plunger-holding tube provided at one side of the tank body in order to connect the additive-storing space with a water supply pipe for supplying water to a dispenser of a refrigerator; and an opening/closing means for selectively connecting the additive-storing space with the water supply pipe so that the additive stored in the additive-storing space is dissolved in the water flowing through the water supply pipe.

Abstract: A gas flow regulating device including a housing assembly, an inlet tube assembly, and a biasing device. The housing assembly has a main housing, a valve seat body, and a distal plate forming an outlet orifice. The inlet tube assembly includes a proximal inlet end, a tube forming a lumen, and a flange, and is slidably disposed within the main housing, biased to an open state by the biasing device. The flange separates middle and constant pressure chambers within the housing assembly. The inlet tube assembly is transitionable to a closed state in response to pressure in the constant pressure chamber to generate a relatively constant flow rate of air exiting the device via the outlet orifice.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a cartridge for regulating a fluid flow are described that include an upper housing, and an insert that is user-removable from the upper housing. The cartridge can include one or more valves that are biased in a closed position to prevent odors from escaping the cartridge. The cartridge can also include a fluid trap that is at least partially disposed within the cartridge or fluidly coupled thereto. An ultraviolet light can be inserted within the cartridge to disinfect a fluid passageway of the cartridge.

Abstract: A poppet valve has a valve head and a valve stem. A piston is capable of reciprocating motion relative to a housing along a reciprocation axis. The piston has a valve-receiving portion for receiving therein an end portion of the valve stem. A cotter secures the valve stem to the piston. A cap is disposed around the valve-receiving portion. A cap lateral portion extends away from the cap end portion in the direction of the valve head. The valve-receiving portion is held between the cap end portion and the cap lateral portion in a direction parallel to the reciprocation axis. At least part of the cap lateral portion is angled toward the reciprocation axis. The part of the cap lateral portion is closer to the reciprocation axis than at least part of the valve-receiving portion. A method of assembling a valve assembly is also described.

Abstract: A valve system including a number of shape memory alloy (“SMA”)-actuated valves for controlling the flow of fluids is disclosed as is a variety of types of SMA-actuated valves and methods of operation. In one embodiment, a valve system includes a housing having a substantially closed cavity as well as a second port for communicating a fluid. Further, the valve system includes a first SMA actuator configured to control the position of the first seal to vary fluid flow through the firs port, and a first temperature compensator for adjusting the position of the seal by an amount proportional to temperature. A second SMA-actuated valve, driven by either a unidirectional or a bidirectional SMA actuator, controls the position of the second seal to vary fluid flow through the second port, and a second temperature compensator for adjusting the position of the second seal by another amount proportional to temperature.

Abstract: A valve assembly comprises male and female coupling members that are connectable by inserting a probe of the male member into a socket of the female member. A fluid passageway within the female member has an aperture within the socket that is open and closed by a first closing member that moves within the socket. A fluid passageway within the male member has an aperture on the probe that is open and closed by a second closing member. When mated fluid flows between the two fluid passageways. The female member includes a first cage. During insertion of the probe into the socket, the first cage releasably locks the first closing member to the probe such that the cage carries any separation forces created due to the pressure of the fluid within the passageways.

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.

Abstract: A multiplexing valve assembly includes a valve slidably disposed within a valve body, hydraulic module, or packaged in a stand alone solenoid cartridge. A plurality of fluid passages communicate with the multiplexing valve assembly. The valve includes a plurality of lands. Radial fluid passages disposed in the lands and a longitudinal fluid passage disposed in the valve allow hydraulic fluid within the fluid passages to be selectively exhausted via a single exhaust port. Movement of the valve within the valve body directs hydraulic fluid from one or more input fluid passages to a plurality of outlet fluid passages. The valve is actuated directly by an armature in the solenoid directly acting on the valve or through hydraulic fluid controlled by a solenoid.

Abstract: A breather for a fluid storage tank, a storage tank incorporating same, and a method of releasing pressure in a fluid storage tank is provided. The present invention permits graduated release of pressure within the storage tank by allowing for varied flow rates of air out of the storage tank. In one embodiment, a valve assembly is provided that includes a valve member that has a graduated release feature that adjusts the size of a gap though the valve assembly formed between the valve member and a corresponding valve seat.

Abstract: A high pressure metering valve has a valve element with a closing portion, a metering portion and a rapid return portion. The closing portion seats against a corner seat at the end of a valve bore in which the metering portion has a close sliding fit. When the element is unseated, a flow rate can be metered depending on the overlapping length of the metering portion in the valve bore. At the opposite end of the metering portion, the rapid return portion is undercut to be of smaller area than the metering portion to provide a full open state for rapid fluid return.

Abstract: The invention concerns a valve (1) for measuring a liquid or powdery product, comprising a fixed conduit (5) for supplying the product; a closure (13) mounted at a lower end (11) of the conduit (5); and a coaxial sleeve (15), mounted outside the conduit (5), having a lower end (19) shaped into a valve seat, said sleeve (15) being mobile in translation relative to the conduit (5) between a so-called closed position wherein the valve seat (19) co-operates tightly with the closure (13), and a so-called open position wherein the valve seat (19) is spaced apart from the closure (13) to allow the product to flow.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for using hot gas to defrost sequentially each refrigerated display case (evaporator) in a group of refrigerated display cases (evaporators). A unique cross-feed line connects the distributor and the evaporator suction line for each evaporator in the group of evaporators. Like a typical hot gas defrost system, the sequential hot gas defrost system may be time-initiated and time-terminated or time-initiated and temperature-terminated. Each evaporator in the group of evaporators is defrosted in turn while the remaining evaporators in the group continue to operate in the refrigeration mode. A unitary combination check valve and orifice simplifies the sequential hot gas defrost refrigeration system.

Abstract: A system, in certain embodiments, may include a spray coating device having a handle, a fluid head comprising a fluid valve and a trigger coupled to the fluid valve, and a quick disconnect fastener coupling the fluid head with the handle. A system, in other embodiments, may include a spray coating device having a body, a pivot joint coupled to the body, and a trigger having a lever coupled to the pivot joint. The trigger may be configured to move in a first direction. The system also may include a valve disposed in the body and movable in a second direction crosswise to the first direction, wherein the lever is configured to bias the valve in the second direction.