Biased Valve Patents (Class 251/336)
  • Patent number: 11761637
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: MIDEA GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Richard W. Cowan
  • Patent number: 10774943
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: MAC Valves, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett Anthony Landacre, Matthew Neff, Jeffrey Simmonds
  • Patent number: 10408360
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: Stopak India Pvt. Ltd.
    Inventor: Bester Jacobus Pansegrouw
  • Patent number: 8870935
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Michael Vardanega
  • Publication number: 20140306135
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2013
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: Jorge Maercovich
  • Patent number: 8820347
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens PLC
    Inventor: Nicholas Mann
  • Patent number: 8740183
    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).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Burckhardt Compression AG
    Inventors: Philipp Hauri, Markus Friedl, Andreas Schlegel, Alexandre Voser, Markus Lehmann
  • Publication number: 20140131609
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Rausch & Pausch GmbH
    Inventors: Frank Perner, Tino Zeidler, Herwig Greiner, Werner Schieweck
  • Publication number: 20140026546
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin A. Bacon, Gang Victor Wen, Wesley Thomas Payne
  • Patent number: 8579254
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Pierburg GmbH
    Inventors: Werner Buse, Alvito Fernandes
  • Publication number: 20130256577
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: TI Group Automotive Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Edward J. Talaski
  • Patent number: 8518637
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventors: Allen C. Barnes, Janice Barnes
  • Publication number: 20130153239
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventors: RICHARD MCINTOSH, TOBY SCOTT BAUDOIN
  • Publication number: 20130126772
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: VAT HOLDING AG
    Inventor: VAT HOLDING AG
  • Publication number: 20130092864
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: FLOMATIC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Allan Bo Andersson
  • Publication number: 20130092261
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: FLOMATIC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Allan Bo Andersson
  • Publication number: 20130068984
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: AMOT CONTROLS CORP.
    Inventors: Kamyar Molavi, Ken McClymonds
  • Publication number: 20120305822
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: JOHN A. BARRETT, TIMOTHY J. SKINNER, ERNESTO J. GUTIERREZ, MATTHEW R. WARREN, JOSEPH M. BONA
  • Publication number: 20120267560
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicant: TAYLOR-WHARTON INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventor: JAMES MICHAEL ROCKWOOD
  • Publication number: 20120204368
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: StoneAge, Inc.
    Inventor: Gerald P. Zink
  • Publication number: 20120205405
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: StoneAge, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald P. Zink, Neil C. O'Connor
  • Patent number: 8186545
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Lesaffre Et Compagnie
    Inventor: Karel Blomme
  • Patent number: 8177082
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventors: Henry Joseph Cattadoris, Gregory Roger Martin, Allison Jean Tanner
  • Publication number: 20120091381
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventors: Frank Kern, Torben Skov
  • Publication number: 20120091382
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Gene G. Yie
  • Publication number: 20120085958
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventor: Teng-Jen YANG
  • Publication number: 20120055382
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: Paul Wurth S.A.
    Inventors: Jean-Paul Simoes, Jeannot Loutsch, Lionel Hausemer
  • Publication number: 20120050422
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Soji Kondo
  • Publication number: 20110315909
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicants: NIPPON SOKEN, INC., DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shinobu OIKAWA, Hirokuni Tomita
  • Publication number: 20110315171
    Abstract: A pressure-relief assembly for adjusting pressure within a washing chamber of a washer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Inventors: Maxime Robert, Claude Gravel
  • Publication number: 20110147636
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Shinobu OIKAWA
  • Publication number: 20110121221
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: Nellcor Puritan Bennett LLC
    Inventor: Michael Vardanega
  • Patent number: 7927550
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Baeuerle, Jan Eikhoff
  • Publication number: 20110073191
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Charles L. Gray, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100308250
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: ISENTROPIC LIMITED
    Inventors: Jonathan Sebastian Howes, James Macnaghten
  • Publication number: 20100288960
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Applicant: TAYLOR INNOVATIONS, LLC
    Inventor: Julian S. Taylor
  • Patent number: 7805956
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Yong Chol Kwon
  • Publication number: 20100206309
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: CARDINAL HEALTH 207, INC.
    Inventors: Steve Han, Alex Stenzler
  • Publication number: 20100199415
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: LIQUIDBREAKER LLC
    Inventor: Giovanni Fima
  • Publication number: 20100181515
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Applicant: BRP-POWERTRAIN GMBH CO KG
    Inventors: Christian BERGER, Johann NEUBOECK, Roland ENNSMANN, Walter HINTERBERGER, Stefan LEIBER
  • Patent number: 7748405
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Alfmeler Prazision AG Baugruppen und Systemlosungen
    Inventors: Ali Ghorbal, Sandheep K. Surendran, Andrei Szilagyi, Peter Emery von Behrens, Jean-Pierre Maeder
  • Publication number: 20100090150
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: SELF-ENERGISING COUPLING COMPANY LIMITED
    Inventor: Matthew Joseph Readman
  • Patent number: 7686017
    Abstract: A fluid flow control valve is disclosed. This valve includes a housing which defines a central passageway having fluid inlet and fluid outlet openings. A pressure responsive element is disposed within the passageway for selectively opening and closing the inlet opening to fluid flow in response to pressure exerted thereon at the inlet opening. A mechanism is provided within the passageway for exerting a bias force against the pressure responsive element sufficient to close the inlet opening to fluid flow absent a pre-established level of pressure exerted on the pressure responsive element in opposition to the bias force. Finally, a retainer device is positioned for removably securing the pressure responsive element and bias force exerting mechanism within the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventor: Shane S. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20100072408
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Bret M. Olson, Philip C. Lundberg
  • Publication number: 20100065565
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: Helgesen Design Services, LLC
    Inventors: Bruce E. Knuth, Robert E. Broman
  • Publication number: 20100038577
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventor: Roger R. Pili
  • Publication number: 20080302824
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Inventor: Karel Blomme
  • Patent number: 7461515
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Inventor: Keith E. Wellman
  • Publication number: 20080296409
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Paul R. Micheli
  • Publication number: 20080217571
    Abstract: A novel pressure control device is provided comprising a first cylinder (3) at a predetermined excess pressure, a piston (4) with a sealing ring (5) being movable within said first cylinder, and a second cylinder (7). The first cylinder (3) is encompassed by the second cylinder (7) as to form a ring-shaped passage which is leading to the outside. A valve in said passageway is released and closed by a stem (14) of the piston (4). The open end of the first cylinder (3) is provided with at least one axially directed incision (37), such that the piston (4) with the sealing ring (5) introduced in the first cylinder (3) and covering the end of the incision (37) is in a non-pressurized position. The stem (14) has a stop element (15) which closes the valve in the upper position of the piston, wherein the piston stroke essentially defines the excess pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventors: Phil Regan, Roy Van Swieten, Niels Van Wieringen