Plural Motions Of Valve Patents (Class 251/351)
  • Patent number: 11744724
    Abstract: A biocompatible implant for a method of treating a reflux disease in a patient by preventing the cardia sphincter from sliding through the patient's diaphragm hiatus opening into the patient's thorax, so as to maintain a pressure support from the patient's abdomen that supports the patient's cardia sphincter. The biocompatible implant has a rigid shape, a circumference of at least 15 mm and is configured to be introduced into the patent's abdomen through a trocar, be fully invaginatable in the patient's fundus wall, and function as an implantable movement restricting device preventing the cardia sphincter from sliding through the patient's diaphragm, when implanted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Inventor: Peter Forsell
  • Patent number: 11254474
    Abstract: There is proposed a seal for a retractable spout of a container, comprising a flexible generally elongate tubular body including a first annular end and an opposite second annular end. The first annular end of the seal is fixedly held circumferentially around or adjacent, an opening in the container through which the spout is configured to extend to thereby inhibit movement of a flowable substance out between an outer surface of said spout and an edge of said opening. The second annular end of the seal engaging with and extending outwardly from a lower or inner end of said spout. In this way when the spout is in a retracted position the second annular end bears against a bearing surface of the container to thereby inhibit movement of said flowable substance out through said spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Inventor: Scott Pearce
  • Patent number: 10813345
    Abstract: A water change system includes an elongate tube and a spout configured to be coupled to the elongate tube. The spout includes a first opening and a second opening spaced from the first opening. The spout is rotatable between a first position to permit water to enter the second opening and pass out of the first opening, and a second position to inhibit water from entering the second opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: Central Garden & Pet Company
    Inventors: Thomas Lutz, Phillip Bartoszek, Matthew Allen, Ernie Katris
  • Patent number: 9945216
    Abstract: A frac system that includes a hydraulic energy transfer system configured to exchange pressures between a first fluid and a second fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: ENERGY RECOVERY, INC.
    Inventors: Farshad Ghasripoor, Jeremy Grant Martin, Prem Krish, Baji Gobburi
  • Patent number: 8985551
    Abstract: A solenoid includes: a movable core configured to move in a first space of a main body case in an axial direction to apply a biasing force to a spool; a fixed magnetic pole portion configured to attract the movable core in the axial direction; an adjusting spring configured to apply the biasing force to the movable core; a biasing force adjusting member provided at an opening end portion of a rear case and configured to adjust an axial position thereof to adjust the biasing force; and a degassing plug provided at an opening end portion of the adjusting member and including a degassing passage that allows a second space to communicate with an outside by changing relative positions of the adjusting member and the degassing plug. A sealing portion configured to open or close communication between degassing passages is provided between the adjusting member and the degassing plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masahiro Matsuo, Yuko Funakubo, Mitsuo Yoshimoto
  • Patent number: 8955824
    Abstract: A fluid filter device (1) includes an opening (14) for draining the fluid (33), a first counter thread (13), a closure element (12) for a fluid-tight closure of the opening screwed in with a thread (11) thereof into the first counter thread (13), a second counter thread (17) into which a connecting element (21) with a thread (22) thereof is screwable for simultaneously unscrewing the closure element (12) from the first counter thread (13) and thereby releasing the opening (14) for draining the fluid (33).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Mann+Hummel GmbH
    Inventors: Klemens Dworatzek, Daniela Zinic
  • Patent number: 8852443
    Abstract: Various “no filter, no run” fuel filtration designs are described that include a variable restriction orifice (VRO) designed to vary the amount of fluid, for example fuel, that reaches a fluid outlet. The VRO has a fully open position at which a maximum non-zero fluid flow is permitted, and a fully closed position at which a limited amount of fluid can flow to the outlet. In the case of diesel fuel, the amount of fuel flow permitted at the fully closed position provides lubrication of downstream fuel system components, for example the fuel pump, but is insufficient to permit engine operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Cummins Filtration IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Forrest, J. Bruce Schelkopf, Ted S. Loftis, Barry Verdegan, Wassem Abdalla, Mark Wieczorek, Gérard Malgorn, Charles W. Hawkins, Chad Thomas, Joe Saxon, Mark Johnson, Naren Shaam
  • Patent number: 8833734
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a fill valve for use in a livewell of a boat. The fill valve includes an intake and a valve housing coupled to the intake. The valve housing includes a rounded half-sphere shaped front wall coupled to a substantially flat back wall. The front wall includes one or more inlet openings in fluid communication with the intake. The fill valve also includes a valve switch positioned in the valve housing to switch between a first position allowing fluid communication between the inlet openings and the intake and a second position providing a substantially liquid-tight seal between the inlet openings and the intake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Pentair Flow Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Anil B. Patel
  • Patent number: 8656965
    Abstract: A bleeder plug is provided with a bleeder body having a nipple portion and a threaded portion and being provided with a through hole extending from the nipple portion-side end to the threaded portion-side end; a seat pin having a press fitting portion to be press-fitted in an opening of the through hole at the threaded portion-side in the bleeder body and a seat portion blocking a bleeder hole, and a groove formed in a contact surface between the bleeder body and the seat pin and communicating the opening of the through hole at the nipple portion-side with an outside space via the contact surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Akebono Brake Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yukio Iwata
  • 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: 8091745
    Abstract: The invention relates to a disposable tap (1) for tapping liquid from a pressurized liquid container. Compared to prior art taps, the inventive disposable tap is modified so that it can be preferably placed in the upper area of the lateral wall of the liquid container. To this end, the tap comprises a lateral inlet opening (21) which is oriented downward when the tap is mounted and which is provided for coupling, in a sealing manner, to an ascending tube (34), and comprises elements (6, 7, 8), which control the entrance of liquid into the tap and to the outlet (of the tap hole) in an appropriate manner. The invention also relates to a liquid container with a corresponding opening (36) for and with this tap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Impress Group B.V.
    Inventors: Werner Neukirch, Peter Sauer
  • Patent number: 7837072
    Abstract: A spigot assembly for use in a fermentation vessel, such as the type used in wine making, is provided. The spigot assembly is of a multiple part construction such that it substantially avoids entrapment of either sediment or air in or on the assembly as the spigot operates to remove liquid from the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Global Vintners Inc.
    Inventors: Philip L. Poissant, William Herbert Evans
  • Patent number: 7740192
    Abstract: A rotating bi-directional pneumatic gun has a body and a guiding tube mounted rotatably in the body. The guiding tube has an outer surface, a front notch, a rear notch, a front groove and a rear groove. The front notch and the rear notch are defined longitudinally in the outer surface of the guiding tube and are kept from communicating with each other. The front groove and the rear groove communicate respectively with the front notch and the rear notch and each have multiple inclined bores extending respectively toward the front end and the rear end of the barrel. Rotating the guiding tube can change the direction of air flow of the pneumatic gun, and the rotating bi-directional pneumatic gun is convenient to operate and easy to assemble.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: Kuo-Liang Chen
  • Patent number: 7387290
    Abstract: A self locking air nozzle for an inflatable product includes a mounting seat with a first through hole, a shoulder and a tubular extension extending from the mounting seat, a rotatable cylinder rotatably mounted on the shoulder, a driven sleeve received in the rotatable cylinder to be linearly movable relative to the rotatable cylinder, a sealing seat securely connected to the driven sleeve and selectively engaged with a bottom peripheral edge of the mounting seat so as to be linearly movable relative to the mounting seat that the sealing seat is moved to close communication between the first through hole of the mounting seat and air holes defined in a periphery of the sealing seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Inventor: Cheng-Chung Wang
  • Patent number: 7347407
    Abstract: A rotation speed regulating mechanism for pneumatic tools includes a movable airflow knob coupled on the periphery of an air intake member through screw threads. The airflow knob can be turned to adjust the size of an air inlet of the air intake member in a stepless fashion to regulate airflow entering an pneumatic tool so that the rotation speed of the pneumatic tool may be regulated in a stepless manner. Use of the pneumatic tool is more effective and convenient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Sunmatch Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Lung-Hui Chen
  • Patent number: 7273550
    Abstract: A filter assembly may include a valve which includes a valve member. The valve member moves between a first position and a second position and the valve is opened and closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Pall Corporation
    Inventors: Richard Guy Gutman, Roger Alexander Buttery, Kenneth Roy Weight
  • Patent number: 7159731
    Abstract: A filter pump cover according to the invention comprises a filter cap, an air purge valve, and a filter cap retainer. An air purge valve according to the invention is comprised of a valve cap, a screw-threaded portion, and a valve stem having one or more outward-facing inverse hooks at the bottom. The inverse hooks are located at the bottom of the air purge valve stem and hook onto the bottom lip of the hollow central portion of the filter cap retainer to prevent complete removal of the valve stem from the filter cap retainer. The valve screw-threaded portion is interrupted by a valve opening slot on one side that permits the release of air from the pump when the valve is opened. The hollow part of the filter cap retainer mates with and holds the air purge valve by means of the screw threads when the valve is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Bestway Inflatables & Material Corp.
    Inventor: Yao Kai
  • Patent number: 7134641
    Abstract: A valve includes a valve body (100) disposable within a chamber (103) of a housing (101) and capable of being fluidly sealed with respect to the housing (101) when the valve is closed. At least one radial passage (117) is disposed in the valve body (100). At least one axial passage (119) is disposed in the valve body (100) in fluid communication with the at least one radial passage (117). When the valve at least partially opens, a fluid path opens between the valve body (100) and the housing (101), which fluid path (301) in is fluid communication with the at least one radial passage (117), and fluid from within the housing (101) is capable of passing out of the at least one axial passage (119).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: International Engine Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel W. Jensen, Jonathan T. Wild, Kenneth R. Seymour, II, James P. Burke
  • Patent number: 7093821
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid flow control valve for regulating the flow of fluid, and a method for assembling the valve. The fluid flow control valve includes a housing having a generally spherical exterior portion sized to pivotally cooperate within a coupling oriented at an opening of a pressurized fluid duct. A control member is provided having a retaining member received within an outlet end of a central bore of the housing. The control member is provided with a knob for manual rotation. A closure member is threadably engaged within the housing or the control member and is fixed for axial translation relative to the other. The closure member is further adapted to sealingly engage with an inlet end of the housing central bore. Rotation of the control member provides axial displacement to the closure member for varying flow of fluid therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Bruce Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Samuel Harold Howe
  • Patent number: 6902146
    Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses an in-line catheter valve having two adjoining sections including a forward assembly 16 having a tube-like structure and a centrally suspended centerpost 40 with the forward assembly pressed and axially connected to and encapsulating the front distal end of an attachment assembly 18 having an extending hollow form having at its respective connecting distal end's face, an aperture 46 receptive of the centerpost 40 while formed at the opposing half of the attachment assembly 18. The radius or diameter of the present invention 10 is reduced by a plurality of stepped progressions to form a radially descending attachment area 30 for the formation of a frictional attachment resulting from the pressing and/or stretching of an elastomeric tube or catheter 12 onto the radially descending attachment area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Inventor: Steven A Elliott
  • Patent number: 6742682
    Abstract: The tap has a tap bushing (10) with a passage opening (34) for the liquid to be discharged. A piston (12) is guided so as to move axially within the tap bushing (10) and has an entry opening (36) and an exit opening (38) for the liquid. The piston (12) closes off the passage opening (34) in a locked position when it is moved in. The entry opening (36) of the piston (12) is in connection with the passage opening (34) in an extended position of the piston (12). A locking bushing (14) that is guided to rotate on the piston (12) is seated in the piston (12), which locking bushing (14) optionally closes off the exit opening (38) or brings it into connection with a passage opening (44) of the locking bushing (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Oberhofer Werkzeugbau GmbH
    Inventors: Karl Batschied, Kurt Oberhofer
  • Patent number: 6688580
    Abstract: A die for dispensing a fluid onto a substrate, wherein the die has an movable lip adjacent a fixed lip to form a die opening therebetween. An actuator is mechanically connected to the movable lip and is operable to automatically move the movable lip with respect to the fixed lip in association with a fluid dispensing process, thereby changing a volume of the die opening. The adjustable die is often a slot die and is used with a fluid dispensing valve having an upstream valve ball. The actuator can be an electromechanical actuator such as a piezoelectric actuator or a fluid operated actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: John Jackson, Laurence B. Saidman
  • Patent number: 6622988
    Abstract: A mouthpiece for a hydration system designed for drinking liquids from that system. The mouthpiece comprises a body having an internal conduit passing through it, the internal conduit having a broad portion provided with a broad opening and a narrow portion provided with a narrow opening, a piston member having a distal portion and a proximal portion, the piston member provided with a passageway passing through it, the passageway having a first opening at the proximal portion and a second opening between the proximal portion and the distal portion. At least a portion of the piston member is inserted in the conduit fitting inside the broad portion while the distal portion of the piston member is adapted to fit inside the narrow portion. The piston member is adapted to coaxially move within the body. The mouthpiece further provided with an O-ring closely encircling the distal portion of the piston member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Source Vagabond Systems Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoram Gill
  • Patent number: 6581905
    Abstract: A brake bleed tool includes a pliable plastic tube which sealingly engages a bleed fitting. A bleed wrench coaxially slides along the tool to engage the bleed fitting. The bleed wrench includes a socket end for engaging the bleed fitting at one end and a winged end at the opposite end which is used to loosen and tighten the bleed fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Tenneco Automotive Inc.
    Inventors: David Charles Rafko, Timothy Johnson
  • Patent number: 6572078
    Abstract: A changeover valve comprises a first valve member and a second valve member. The first value member has an aperture. The second valve member has first and second apertures. The first valve member is movable relative to the second valve member for selective alignment of the first value member aperture with one or other of the apertures of the second valve member. The value also has a ramp and follower means for automatically moving the valve member away from the one another during changeover movement of the first valve member relative to the second valve member so that wear on the surfaces of the valve members is minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Dyson Limited
    Inventors: Andrew Walter McRae Thomson, Peter David Gammack, Robert Brian Seaman
  • Patent number: 6536224
    Abstract: A frozen beverage machine includes a process control block having a plurality of inlets for receiving ingredients and a plurality of outlets. A mixing block has a plurality of inlets connected to the process control block outlets such that ingredients flowing through the mixing block are mixed together therein. At least one freezing chamber is connected to the mixing block outlet to receive the mixed ingredients therefrom, and a refrigeration system is arranged to refrigerate the freezing chamber. A dispensing valve and a drain valve are connected to the freezing chamber. A controller is connected to the process control block to control operation of the frozen beverage machine. The beverage machine includes an automated sanitizing system operated by the controller, in which the beverage mixture is drained from the freezing chamber via the drain valve, and a cleaning solution is pumped into a cleaning solution inlet of the mixing block and into the freezing chamber to sanitize the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Lancer FBD
    Inventors: Jimmy I. Frank, Thomas L. Guy, III
  • Patent number: 6443427
    Abstract: A substantially sputtering-free low-profile low-restriction drain valve is used with a fluid reservoir having a drain opening. The drain valve comprises a valve body, a cap and at least one perforation-sealing member. The valve body has a tubular shank installed in the drain opening and defining a fluid ingress, and a tubular head portion generally coaxial with the tubular shank and defining a chamber in communication with the fluid ingress and having a cross sectional area larger than a cross sectional area of the fluid ingress. The tubular head portion comprises an inner transverse wall extending across the chamber and comprising at least one fluid flow perforation, and a distal end opposite to the shank. The cap is movably assembled to the distal end of the tubular head portion between open and closed positions. This cap defines a fluid egress which, in the open position of the cap, is in communication with the perforation to permit draining of fluid from the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: André Coupal
  • Patent number: 6440348
    Abstract: The invention seeks to provide an improved method for producing umbrella-type insulators comprising a core which is configured as a full body or a hollow cavity and umbrellas connected thereto, whereby problem-free de-moulding of said umbrella-type elements is guaranteed despite the fact that a vacuum is formed. This is achieved by fact that the mould (5) is used with at least one valve (8) which is arranged laterally and which extends as far as the surface (4.2) of the umbrella elements or sleeve (4). Immediately after the beginning or during axial movement of the mould (5) away from the umbrella-type element (3) with a sleeve (4), a gas medium is automatically introduced into the cavity (9) which is formed between the core (2) and umbrella-type element (3) with a sleeve (4) and the mould (5) or the valve (S) opens under the effect of traction or pressure and the gaseous medium is thus introduced into the hollow cavity (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Trench Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Herbert Oppelt, Willi Deuerling
  • Patent number: 6401989
    Abstract: Disclosed is a stowable spigot for beverage cans that comprises an outer sleeve with an arrester mechanism for insertion into the opening of a can. The outer sleeve comprises a sliding inner sleeve that supports a gripping member located outside the can. A plug formed at the inner end of the sleeve is sealed with a protection cap located on the outer sleeve. Once the outer sleeve is removed, the protection cap uncovers a channel formed therein. The inner sleeve further includes a push-valve having a drain hole associated therewith. The sleeves are interconnected through a cam and through a curvilinear slot for driving the inner sleeve towards the outside upon rotation of the gripping member. The outer sleeve comprises a draw hole which is located below and is closed by an insert. The draw hold is located adjacent to the abutment, while the insert can be ejected by the cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Guenter Grittmann
  • Patent number: 6401982
    Abstract: A countersinkable tap for liquid containers is provided. The tap includes a tamper-evident device. The tap includes an outer tube having an abutment which bears against the can wall and adjacent to which is a sealing ring which seals off the can orifice. The tap also includes an inner tube mounted rotatably and displaceably in the outer tube, with a grip and with orifices to allow beverage flow out of the can interior through the outer tube to the inner tube. The inner tube has a spigot which engages into a radially running slot of the outer tube. The outer tube includes a wedge punch and the grip possessing a tab which covers the wedge punch and onto which is integrally formed an inwardly directed thickened portion which, when the grip is rotated, slides on the wedge punch and opens the tab to indicate tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Guenter Grittmann
  • Publication number: 20020030065
    Abstract: A countersinkable tap for liquid containers is provided. The tap includes a tamper-evident device. The tap includes an outer tube having an abutment which bears against the can wall and adjacent to which is a sealing ring which seals off the can orifice. The tap also includes an inner tube mounted rotatably and displaceably in the outer tube, with a grip and with orifices to allow beverage flow out of the can interior through the outer tube to the inner tube. The inner tube has a spigot which engages into a radially running slot of the outer tube. The outer tube includes a wedge punch and the grip possessing a tab which covers the wedge punch and onto which is integrally formed an inwardly directed thickened portion which, when the grip is rotated, slides on the wedge punch and opens the tab to indicate tampering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventor: Guenter Grittmann
  • Publication number: 20020008224
    Abstract: P wells (11, 12) having different impurity profiles are adjacently formed in a surface (50S) of a semiconductor substrate (50). A P-type layer (20) having lower resistivity than the P wells (11, 12) is formed in the surface (50S) across the P wells (11, 12), so that the P wells (11, 12) are electrically connected with each other through the P-type layer (20). Contacts (31, 32) fill in contact holes (70H1, 70H2) formed in an interlayer isolation film (70) respectively in contact with the P-type layer (20). The contacts (31, 32) are connected to a wire (40). The wire (70) is connected to a prescribed potential, thereby fixing the P wells (11, 12) to prescribed potentials through the contacts (31, 32) and the P-type layer (20). Thus, the potentials of the wells can be stably fixed and the layout area of elements for fixing the aforementioned potentials can be reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI DENKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Tomohiro Yamashita, Yoshinori Okumura, Katsuyuki Horita
  • Patent number: 6314984
    Abstract: Improved valve for cushions, of the type including a nipple threadable on a tubular body, the nipple showing a diaphragm or choking disc of an existing seat or toric joint on the end of the tube, the disc being joined to the nipple by a series of brackets separated from each other by windows, characterized because the nipple has an entering stepped surrounding up to the upper part where a rotary skirt is lodged with a truncated cone or cylindrical shape, supported by an inner rib in the part of the skirt and is lodged in an existing crack at the bottom of the stepped existing at the nipple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Casa Artiach S.A.
    Inventors: Manuel Lucea Barriendos, Miguel Angel Hidalgo Arribas
  • Patent number: 6299075
    Abstract: A flush plug is provided for temporarily sealing an outlet at an upper end of an irrigation sprinkler riser extensible from an outer housing. A cap is configured to substantially cover the outlet of the riser. The cap has an output orifice dimensioned to reduce the flow of water from the riser a sufficient amount so that the riser will move to an elevated position under normal operating pressure. The cap is configured so that it can be temporarily connected to the upper end of the sprinkler riser. A shut-off flap is pivotally connected to the cap for covering and uncovering the output orifice. A lever is connected to the shut-off flap and is configured and located to engage an upper end of the sprinkler housing when the riser moves to a retracted lowered position. This positively moves the shut-off flap so that it covers the output orifice in the cap. When the riser moves to the elevated position the lever is no longer engaged with the upper end of the sprinkler housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Hunter Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Izaak M. Koller
  • Patent number: 6260823
    Abstract: The invention concerns a liquid container for drinks such as a can, party keg or drum, having a peripheral wall (1,13,31) and lids (14,32). A tap (4,15,34) with a closed and opened position is inserted in a hole (27,33) in the wall (1,13,31) or in one of the lids (14,32). The tap extends into the interior of the container and comprises an outer part (6,16,35) which is fixed to the wall or lid and an inner part (5,17,36) which can move within the fixed part and is provided outside the container with a grip (8,26,41). The hole (27) can be located in the wall (1) or lid (14) in a recess (3) in which, when the tap (4,15) is in the closed position, the grip (8,26) attached to the inner part (5,17) of the tap is countersunk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Huber Verpackungen GmbH&Co.
    Inventor: Hans-Joachim Weber
  • Publication number: 20010007355
    Abstract: A substantially sputtering-free low-profile low-restriction drain valve is used with a fluid reservoir having a drain opening. The drain valve comprises a valve body, a cap and at least one perforation-sealing member. The valve body has a tubular shank installed in the drain opening and defining a fluid ingress, and a tubular head portion generally coaxial with the tubular shank and defining a chamber in communication with the fluid ingress and having a cross sectional area larger than a cross sectional area of the fluid ingress. The tubular head portion comprises an inner transverse wall extending across the chamber and comprising at least one fluid flow perforation, and a distal end opposite to the shank. The cap is movably assembled to the distal end of the tubular head portion between open and closed positions. This cap defines a fluid egress which, in the open position of the cap, is in communication with the perforation to permit draining of fluid from the reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Publication date: July 12, 2001
    Inventor: Andre Coupal
  • Patent number: 6234188
    Abstract: An adapter for connection to an opening in a fluid containing vessel for applying a vacuum to the interior of the vessel is provided. The adapter includes at least partially concentrically disposed outer and inner sleeves, each having a generally conical shape and a generally radially extending opening in a side wall thereof. The inner and outer sleeves are rotatable relative to each other such that the extent to which the openings in the side walls of the inner sleeve and outer sleeve are aligned can be selectively adjusted. The inner and outer sleeves define a passage through the adapter extending from a proximal opening at a proximal end to a distal opening at a distal end of the adapter. The proximal end of the adapter is configured for connection to a vacuum source and the distal end is configured for insertion in and to sealingly engage the edge of the opening in the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignee: Prism Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Moore, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6196522
    Abstract: Disclosed is a geometric lockout coupler assembly comprising a probe capable of reversibly moving between an open position and a closed position, the open position permitting fluid to pass through the probe; and a bung cup sized and configured to accept the probe. The probe further comprises a geometric configuration which cooperates with the complementarily shaped bung cup to allow fluid to flow through the probe while not permitting other probes to cooperate with the bung cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Ecolab, Inc.
    Inventors: Kaye Kit-Han Yuen, Oliver Murphy, III
  • Patent number: 6113072
    Abstract: An access port or drain for liquids held in a container, having a port member having a bore communicating with the interior of the container. A valve member seals the bore. A spigot member having an internal bore is adapted to connect by complementary connection means to valve member and to move the valve member inwardly of the container to open the valve such that liquid in the container is able to flow through the spigot member via opening in the spigot member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Geoffrey Malcolm Wickett
  • Patent number: 6113071
    Abstract: A gas flow restriction device for restricting the flow rate of heated gas in a conduit. The flow restriction device is essentially a two piece assembly that includes a valve housing and a valve gate structure that sits within the housing. The valve housing has a first end, a second end and an open central passage extending from the first end to the second end. The open central passage includes a internally tapered section proximate its first end and an internally threaded section proximate its second end. The valve gate structure has a first end a second end, a externally tapered section proximate its first end and an externally threaded section proximate its second end. The valve gate structure passes into the open central passage of the valve housing so that the externally tapered section of the valve gate structure is disposed a predetermined distance within the internally tapered section of the valve housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Peter R. Bossard
  • Patent number: 6089474
    Abstract: An apparatus (100) for selectively discharging a stream of liquid has a body (102) adapted for connection to a source of liquid under pressure, a throttle valve assembly (120) for maintaining a constant output flow throughout changes in supply pressure, a smooth bore barrel (140) for providing a deluge stream, a fog tip (160) for providing an aspirated fog spray and a shut off valve (180). The fog spray pattern is variable from a straight stream parallel to the axis of the apparatus to a wide spray at an angle to the axis of the apparatus. The deluge stream and the fog spray are selectable separately or in combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Robert M. Marino
  • Patent number: 6070810
    Abstract: A bi-directional compressed air outlet includes a tubular body having a handle which has a chamber and a passage defined therein, and a valve device disposed to the handle and communicating between the chamber and the passage. A middle member is movably received in the body and has a plurality of inclined apertures defined therethrough. The body has an annular inclined flange defined in an inner periphery thereof and the middle member has an annular inclined surface defined in a front end thereof so as to mate with the inclined flange. Air in the chamber proceeds through the passage and selectably toward a front end of the body via a space defined between the inclined flange and the inclined surface, or a rear end of the body via the inclined apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Inventor: Kuo-Liang Chen
  • Patent number: 6062540
    Abstract: A drain cock device for venting or draining gas or liquid from a pressurized vessel, such as an air compressor, that provides occlusive closure of an opening in the pressurized vessel. When the drain cock is in an open position, gas or liquid may exit the vessel though an open cavity in a valve stem. The drain cock includes primary and back up seals that form by threading a stem through a housing aperture to a closed position. The primary seal is formed by a resilient sealing member tightly contacting the housing valve seat. The back up seal is formed by the rigid, conical surface of the valve stem mating with a rigid valve seat in the housing aperture. The double seal arrangement provides a dependable occlusive seal because the back up seal safeguards leakage in the event of primary seal failure. The drain cock reduces the likelihood of such failure because the surface to surface back up seal alleviates the transverse forces to which the primary resilient seal is subjected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Thomas Industries Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Hubler
  • Patent number: 6053475
    Abstract: A tap is provided for withdrawing fluid from a container comprising an outer tube, which can be fitted in an opening of the container in sealing engagement and in which an inner tube is received in sliding and sealing engagement, an inlet opening arranged in the outer tube, and an inlet opening arranged in the inner tube which communicates with an outlet opening in the inner tube that can be transferred by a corresponding movement of the inner tube from a closed position, in which the inner tube is completely inserted in the outer tube and in which the inlet openings of the outer tube and the inner tube do not overlap, to an open position in which the inlet openings of the outer tube and the inner tube are at least partially aligned one with the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Huber Verpackungen GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Karl Batschied, Kurt Oberhofer, Walter Fegert, Hermann Kogel
  • Patent number: 5868320
    Abstract: Apparatus including a building; and a system which includes a water line comprising a water supply line substantially permanently installed and plumbed inside the building for supplying water at a pressure in a first pressure range; a pump substantially permanently installed and plumbed inside the building, wherein the pump has an inlet operably attached to the water line and an outlet for delivering water at a pressure higher than the pressure in the first pressure range through a fluid line at a higher pressure than the pressure in the first pressure range, wherein the fluid conduit is substantially permanently installed and plumbed inside the building and is operably attached at one end to the pump outlet and operably connected to at least one system outlet; a connector for selectively, operatively connecting or disconnecting a spray wand to at least one system outlet; a cleaning chemical supplier for operably introducing a cleaning chemical into fluid passing through the fluid conduit; and a wireless remo
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Inventors: Gary R. Laabs, Donald R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5826616
    Abstract: A shiftable valve spool has a plurality of distinct targets carried thereon. The targets are preferably axially spaced and located at one end of the valve spool. A detector mounted in the valve detects each target as each target enters a detection field of the detector. The detector generates a distinct output indicative of one target positioned within the detection field of the detector. A control determines, in response to the output from the detector, the exact valve spool position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Assignee: ISI Norgren, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Golden
  • Patent number: 5785076
    Abstract: An inflating assembly comprises a L-Shaped body. The L-shaped body has a tubular threaded portion at front and side ends. The L-shape body has a tubular portion at the front end and is provided with an inflating device. The L-shape body has a side tubular portion mounted with a blowing device. Internal channel is disposed for connecting with a compressor through the hose. The inflating assembly can conduct an inflating and blowing operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Inventor: Bae-Jou You
  • Patent number: 5749526
    Abstract: A cleaning system which is centrally and permanently installed in homes or commercial buildings and is connected to the water line therein. The system includes a pump operably attached to the water line and one or more freeze-proof valves are connected to the outside wall of the building or to an adjoining building. A fluid conduit is operably attached to the pump outlet and at the other end to the inlet of the freeze-proof valve. A spray wand, including an outlet nozzle, is attached to the freeze-proof valve on the outside of the building or buildings and includes structure for easily connecting or disconnecting such spray wand so that it can be removed when not in use and used at any one of the freeze-proof valve outlets. One or more chemical solutions can be selectively introduced into the fluid passing through the high pressure line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Gary R. Laabs
    Inventors: Gary R. Laabs, Donald R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5722451
    Abstract: A device for bleeding or draining a duct comprises a member for closing a passage that opens out into the duct, the member having a helical groove formed in its peripheral surface enabling it to be moved in the passage by screwing and unscrewing on a helical rib of a collar embedded in the material defining the passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: Hutchinson
    Inventors: Denis Godeau, Anthony Garcia
  • Patent number: 5579815
    Abstract: A drain valve assembly for draining fluid from a container, for example an engine crankcase, is constructed with a first threaded bolt portion having external threads for engaging in a threaded drain outlet of the container and internal threads in an axial passage passing through the first threaded bolt portion, a second threaded bolt portion having external and internal threads whereby, use, the external threads engage in the internal threads of the first threaded bolt portion to seal therewith and whereby passages extend through the first and second bolt portions to permit flow of fluid therethrough. A sealing member forms part of the second threaded bolt portion whereby on full insertion of the second threaded bolt portion in a first position within the first threaded bolt portion, the sealing member engages an adjacent surface to prevent the escape of fluid from the container and, on retraction to a second position, the flow of fluid through the first and second threaded bolt portions is permitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Inventor: Roger E. Labonte