Abstract: A hydraulic valve having a body defining an inlet and an outlet. A motor is supported by the body and operates a shaft extending through an interior of the body, the shaft terminating in a gate. A spring is supported within the housing and influences the gate in an open position to permit fluid flow between the inlet and outlet. Upon the occurrence of a pressure differential resulting from a fluid flow through the inlet exceeding a biasing force of the spring, the gate is caused to displace against a valve seat communicating the inlet with the outlet in order to interrupt fluid flow in a standby mode and to define a closed position. The motor operates in a further throttling mode to linearly and incrementally displace the gate between the open and closed positions said outlet and in order to adjust flow through the outlet.

Abstract: A safety device for detachably locking the output member of a linear drive has a coupling rod that can be coupled with the output element of the linear drive. A blocking unit is linearly movably penetrated by the coupling rod that is relatively movable with respect to the housing between a locking position blocking the stroke of the coupling rod and a release position enabling the linear movement of the coupling rod. A spring device prestresses the blocking unit in the blocking position and a locking device locks the blocking unit in the release position. The locking device has locking rolling elements in the housing and a support sleeve that is linearly movably penetrated by the coupling rod. When energized, an electromagnet device holds the support sleeve in the support position against the recoil force of at least one trigger spring of a trigger spring device.

Abstract: Provided is an electromechanical-linkage hydraulic control gate valve actuator. The actuator includes a hand-operated speed-increasing gearbox assembly and a bidirectional throttle valve. In the present invention, a motor is driven to rotate through the hand-operated speed-increasing gearbox and thus a hydraulic system is driven to finally open and close a gate valve. An opening and closing speeds of the gate valve can be regulated and controlled through the bidirectional throttle valve. The present invention drives the motor through the hand-operated speed-increasing gearbox under emergency conditions such as repair and power failure, thereby controlling to open and close the gate valve. Meanwhile, a hydraulic system respectively regulates the speeds of two states of opening and closing through a bidirectional throttling technique, so as to effectively eliminate a water hammer phenomenon. The present invention has simple structure, light weight and modular installation, and enhances safety and reliability.

Abstract: A subsea electric actuator comprises an electric motor and a telescopic drive connection (8) from the motor to a drive unit (10, 11, 12) which can be moved to and fro and converts rotary motion of the connection to linear motion of an actuating stem (5). A return spring (14) is operable on the drive unit to urge the actuating stem towards a datum state. An electromagnetic latch (15) is operative when set to maintain the drive unit in a predetermined position so as to decouple the action of the return spring whereby the stem can be advanced and retracted relative to the drive unit free from the action of the return spring. De-energization of the latch allows the return spring to operate on the drive unit to return the actuating stem to the datum state. Various forms of electromagnetic latch are described.

Abstract: The invention concerns a valve actuator (1) comprising a housing (2) and a nut and screw arrangement. A first portion (5) of the nut and screw arrangement is operated by an electric motor (7), which is fixed to the housing (2). A means (8) is in contact with a second portion (6) of the nut and screw arrangement, and a resilient means (9) is acting between the means (8) and the housing (2). A relative rotation between the threaded nut (3) and the threaded screw (4) leads to a translation of the means (8) and an energizing or de-energizing of the resilient means (9). A locking means (10) locks the resilient means (9) in an energized state by locking the relative rotation of the nut and screw arrangement. When the locking means (10) are released, the resilient means (9), when de-energizing, acts on the means (8), leading to a translation of the means (8).

Abstract: The present invention comprises a method and apparatus for controlling gas flow via a gas shut-off valve assembly. In at least one embodiment, the assembly is configured to drive its shut-off valve from an open position to a closed position, in response to detecting a valve closure condition. The assembly in one or more embodiments operates as an intelligent node in an AMR network, and it interprets a received closure command as a closure condition. Additionally, or alternatively, the assembly detects abnormal operating conditions as the closure condition. Advantageously, the assembly performs initial closure verification, based on detecting movement of the valve into the closed position, and performs subsequent closure verification, based on monitoring downstream gas pressure. In the same or other embodiments, the assembly provides enhanced stand-alone reliability and safety by incorporating one or more valve clearing/cleaning routines into its operations.

Abstract: A spring return valve comprising a motor, a first worm member, a second planetary gear member, a second worm member, an elastic member, and a valve attached to said second worm wheel is provided. Since the first and the second planetary gear are installed between the first worm shaft and the second worm shaft and the elastic member is fitted onto the second worm shaft, the load applied on the output shaft can be reduced a lot, the opening and/or closing operation is very easy even if the elastic coefficient is small, thereby the reduction in size is possible.

Abstract: An actuator device comprising an actuator housing with a fitting for connecting the actuator to an object, a motor, which via transmission elements, drives an output actuator shaft of the actuator, where the actuator shaft is rotationally disconnectable from the motor, the actuator shaft being rotatable between two angular positions where the one angular position may correspond to the object being in a first condition and the other angular position may correspond to the object being in a second condition, and where the actuator is provided with an element for storage of mechanical energy, the element by energy cut-off to the actuator being releasably arranged to be able to displace a nut being prevented from rotating around its longitudinal axis, along a screw thread complementary fitting to the nut, and connected to the actuator shaft, whereby the actuator shaft is rotated between the two angular positions.

Abstract: A valve assembly (20) for an aircraft water supply system. The valve assembly (20) comprises a valve member (40), an electrical motor (64), and a mechanical returning mechanism (80). When electrical power is provided, the motor (64) can be controlled to move the valve member (40) from a first position and to a second position. The mechanism (80) is operably connected to the valve member (40) and mechanically biases it towards the first position. If a power loss occurs when the valve member (40) is in the second position, the returning mechanism (80) non-electrically (e.g., mechanically) returns the valve member (40) to the first position.

Abstract: A clutch apparatus for an electric valve actuator, in which, where a manual handle is operated by an operator in a state that a power supply is stopped in a main motor, a coupling state between the manual handle and the main motor is released and the main motor is separately driven during a re-supply of the power, whereby preventing a safety accident of the operator of the manual handle.

Abstract: Methods and devices for utilizing an electrically-actuated wireline insert safety valve (WLSV) within a wellbore. Power is delivered to an electrically actuated WLSV to actuate the WLSV via inductive charging and without the use of wired contact.

Abstract: An actuator system including a shaft, elements arranged to power the shaft and at least one actuated member actuated by the elements arranged to power the shaft. The elements arranged to power the shaft include a plurality of transverse flux motors.

Abstract: A fail safe mechanism having a return member, valve stem extension, energy storage member, and locking assembly. The valve stem extension is driven by an electrical actuator and configured to drive the return member in a first direction and to be driven by the return member in a second direction. The energy storage member is configured to store energy when the electrical actuator causes the valve stem extension to drive the return member in the first direction and to release the energy stored therein when a disruption of power causes the return member to drive the valve stem extension in the second direction. The locking assembly is configured to hold the return member in a cocked position such that the valve stem extension rotates with the valve independently of the return member and free of influence from the energy storage member while the power is applied to the electrical actuator.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fast closing clamp for the pinching off of hoses, wherein the fast closing clamp has a clamp jaw with a clamping position, in which it can pinch off a hose, and an open position. The fast closing clamp in accordance with the invention furthermore comprises a holding apparatus, a spring device and a latch device as well as a return mechanism.

Abstract: A valve unit for controlling the delivery of a fuel gas through a delivery duct (3) comprises a valve seat (6) in the duct, a closure member (5) associated with the seat, a motor-driven actuator (7) acting on the closure member in order to control it so as to open/close the valve seat, as well as an electromagnetic unit (22) with a first portion (23) carrying a magnetizing winding (24) and a second portion (25) which can be fixed firmly to the first position by magnetization.

Abstract: The invention concerns a fail-safe valve having a valve element, and a control motor being connected with the valve element via a driveline. It is endeavored to ensure the tightness of the refrigeration system in a simple manner. For this purpose, it is ensured that the valve element is located inside and the control motor outside a closed valve housing, that the drive line has a magnetic coupling, which acts through the housing, and that the valve element is pressure-released. In addition, a resetting device is provided that causes the valve element to be returned to a predetermined position upon the undesired cessation of control motor operation.

Abstract: This invention relates to a memory cell which comprises a capacitor having a first electrode and a second electrode separated by a dielectric layer. Such dielectric layer comprises a layer of a semi-insulating material which is fully enveloped by an insulating material and in which an electric charge is permanently present or trapped therein. Such electric charge accumulated close to the first or to the second electrode, depending on the electric field between the electrodes, thereby defining different logic levels.

Abstract: An electric valve actuator with a failsafe device for a rotary type valve that is coupled to a drive shaft screw by means of a clutch. A cam cylinder is secured to the drive shaft screw and is also connected to the stem of the valve. A cam follower is slidably mounted upon the drive shaft and traces a cam profile form in the cylinder as the cylinder turns. A series of torsion springs are connected to the cylinder so that the springs are wound into a loaded condition as the cam cylinder moves from a valve closed position to a cam opening position. In the event of a power failure while the valve is opened, the clutch disengages the motor from the drive shaft and the springs unwind quickly to move the cam cylinder toward the valve closing position. At this time the motion of the cylinder is controlled by the cam follower which regulates the valve closing sequence.

Abstract: An electric valve actuator with a failsafe device for a rotary type valve that is coupled to a drive shaft screw by means of a clutch. A cam cylinder is secured to the drive shaft screw and is also connected to the stem of the valve. A cam follower is slidably mounted upon the drive shaft and traces a cam profile form in the cylinder as the cylinder turns. A series of torsion springs are connected to the cylinder so that the springs are wound into a loaded condition as the cam cylinder moves from a valve closed position to a cam opening position. In the event of a power failure while the valve is opened, the clutch disengages the motor from the drive shaft and the springs unwind quickly to move the cam cylinder toward the valve closing position. At this time the motion of the cylinder is controlled by the cam follower which regulates the valve closing sequence.

Abstract: A dynamic random access memory (DRAM) cell and associated array are disclosed. The DRAM cell (300) includes a storage capacitor (304) and a pass transistor (302). The pass transistor (302) includes a source region (322), drain region (320) and channel region (324). A top gate (318) is disposed over the channel region (324) and a bottom gate (310) is disposed below the channel region (324). The top gate (318) and bottom gate (310) are commonly driven to provide greater control of the pass transistor (302) operation, including an off state with reduced source-to-drain leakage. The DRAM array (400) includes memory cells (414) having pass transistors (500) with double-gate structures. Memory cells (414) within the same row are commonly coupled to a top word line and bottom word line. The resistance of the top and bottom word lines is reduced by a word line strap layer (600). The DRAM array (400) further includes a strapping area that is void of memory cells.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a ventilation damper unit utilizing a direct coupled two-position rotary damper actuator with a DC solenoid is disclosed. The actuator acts to rotate the output coupling, and in turn, the damper shaft to open the damper. After approximately 95 degrees +/−3 degrees of output coupling rotation, a limit switch is activated and a DC solenoid equipped with a full way bridge rectifier extends to a brake rotor to lock the damper into position. Simultaneously power is shut-off to the actuator motor assembly to reduce electrical consumption. Upon complete power failure to the actuator unit, such as during a fire and smoke emergency, the DC solenoid is spring returned allowing the damper to be spring returned to a closed position, thus preventing flow of air and smoke through a building and starving a fire of oxygen.

Abstract: An electronic throttle control system having a housing and cover member with a throttle valve, gear mechanism, motor, and failsafe or default mechanism. A spring member positioned between the housing and sector gear member which is attached to the throttle valve shaft, biases the throttle valve plate member toward the closed position. A spring-biased plunger member biases the throttle plate member from its closed position to a default or “limp-home” position. In order to reduce contact between the spring member of the default mechanism and the plunger member, the spring member can have an hourglass shape and/or the outer surface of the plunger member can be minimized.

Abstract: An electronic throttle control system having a housing and cover member with a throttle valve, gear mechanism, motor, and failsafe or default mechanism. A spring member positioned between the housing and sector gear member which is attached to the throttle valve shaft, biases the throttle valve plate member toward the closed position. A spring-biased plunger member biases the throttle plate member from its closed position to a default or “limp-home” position. In order to reduce contact between the spring member of the default mechanism and the plunger member, the spring member can have an hourglass shape and/or the outer surface of the plunger member can be minimized.

Abstract: An valve actuator in a hydronic heating and cooling system includes a motor for changing the position of a valve, a switch for switching power to the motor, and a sensor for detecting the arrival of the valve at a desired position and for stopping the motor without using a mechanical stop. The motor's power source includes a capacitive power source which can be used to drive the motor under low-power conditions. A worm gear is used in the drive train, and combined with a clutch assembly to permit the valve to be operated manually.

Abstract: Apparatus for rapidly changing the state of a device from an active state to an inactive state. The apparatus includes an inner member slidably contained in an outer member. The member is connected to an actuator and the other to a control for changing the state of a device. A latch mechanism normally holds the two members locked together so that the control means responds to the actuator. When a potentially dangerous situation is sensed, the latch mechanism is opened and the two members are rapidly forced apart by a heavy release spring thus rapidly changing the state of the device from an active state to an inactive state.

Abstract: A system for regulating flow of fluid through a flow line, such as a supply line, the line having a flow controller such as a valve, the system having a sensor for generating a signal in response to a parameter, a transmitter for transmitting a corresponding signal to a receiver at a remote location, a receiver for receiving the signal from the transmitter, an actuator for operating a regulator in response to the signal received by the actuator for operating the valve or other flow regulator.

Abstract: An actuator for an HVAC system includes a motor coupled by an electrically operated clutch to a gear train which drives an output connector. A spring is connected to the transmission to drive the output connector to a normal position in the event of a power failure. A control apparatus is connected to the transmission and provides the combined functions of a magnetic eddy current brake and a motion sensor.

Abstract: A valve actuator preferably driven by an electric motor is disclosed. The valve actuator is useful with surface safety valves and uses power input from an electric motor to position the valve in its normal position. A mechanism is provided to allow the valve to shift positions to a failsafe position upon failure of electrical power to the motor connected to the actuator. A screw drive is provided with the motor, with a latch mechanism holding a nut against rotation. The nut can advance longitudinally upon rotation of the drive to move a valve stem. Upon failure of electrical power, the latch mechanism releases the nut from a coupling in the actuator which is connected to the valve stem, and the main return springs in the actuator allow the nut to rotate with respect to the screw drive so that the valve can assume its failed position. Normal applications allow the valve to fail closed; however, the valve can be configured so that failure results in opening of the valve if the application requires it.

Abstract: A valve actuator comprises a stem extending through the actuator body for coupling to a valve such that axial movement of the stem opens and closes the valve. An outer shaft is arranged coaxially around, and in threaded engagement with the stem and is coupled to an electric motor for conveying rotational drive to the shaft and thus axial movement of the shaft relative to the stem against a spring bias. The shaft is releasably retained in a predetermined position by a solenoid-actuated latching mechanism with the spring in a compressed state, such that further rotation of the shaft causes axial movement of the stem relative to the shaft to actuate the valve. Deactuation of the mechanism releases the shaft to allow axial movement of both the shaft and the stem, under action of the spring in order to close the valve.

Abstract: There is provided an electromotive drive for a control element, the overall drive is without self-inhibition, for which purpose its screw transmission has rolling elements in the thread, and the drive motor is a rotating field magnet. Provision is made for a freewheel clutch disposed between the drive motor and the screw transmission. A non-inhibiting reduction gear may be arranged between the freewheel clutch and the drive motor.

Abstract: A mechanical actuator for moving a shaft axially has a motor driving a gear assembly giving a mechanical advantage of at least 30:1, preferably 50 to 150:1. The assembly drives an internally screw threaded sleeve on external screw threads of the shaft so that rotation of the sleeve moves the shaft axially. A stop connected to a gear of the gear assembly for the sleeve ensures that it is the shaft that moves.The actuator is suitable for all valves, chokes and control mechanisms for oil or gas production, particularly sub-sea production and the motor is preferably a reversible DC electric motor. The mechanical advantage allows heavily loaded shafts to be moved with low power input.When applied to spring loaded fail-safe valves the stop for the sleeve may be one or more moveable locking dogs actuated by the gear assembly. The gear assembly acts as a differential transmitting torque either to the gear wheel actuating the stop of the gear wheel rotating the sleeve.

Abstract: A fail-safe electric actuator, for use with a control mechanism such as a valve, is disclosed. The actuator device eliminates the possibility of the control mechanism being locked in operative position by the interruption of electric power, by automatically and mechanically returning the control mechanism to its inopertive position as soon as current is cut off. This is accomplished by the release of a torsion spring, wound previously by the rotation of a fluid-driven vaned torque actuator in turning both the control-mechanism and the electric fail-safe actuator into operative position.

Abstract: An actuator for a valve has an output shaft adapted to be connected directly to a rotary shaft of the body of a valve, the shaft being pivotally supported in a casing, a gear rotated in one direction only by a motor, an internal gear having outer peripheral teeth meshed with the first-mentioned gear, the internal gear being rotatable independently from the output shaft and pivotally supported thereby, a further gear meshed with the inner peripheral teeth of the internal gear and with a still further gear secured to the output shaft, a yet further gear for pivotally supporting the further gear at a shaft, the yet further gear being pivotally supported by the output shaft such that it is rotatable independently therefrom, a power spring to be wound by the rotation of the output shaft in the valve opening direction, and an electromagnetic device for preventing the yet further gear from being rotated while power is supplied, and permitting it to be rotated when power is shut off.

Abstract: A random access rotary pinch valve for controlling fluid flow through a plurality of fluid conduits. The valve is adapted to receive and retain the fluid conduits and includes, for each of the conduits, a toggle mechanism comprising a piston and a toggle. The piston and toggle can be latched to pinch the associated fluid conduit to a non-conducting state or may be latched with the conduit in a fluid conducting state. An actuator arm is selectively positioned over the toggle mechanisms and is displaced so as to actuate the toggles from one state to another, thus changing the state of fluid conduction through the associated flexible conduit. In the embodiment disclosed herein, the fluid conduits are arranged about the periphery of an annular valve body and the actuator arm is pivoted by means of the stepper motor over the toggle mechanisms.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a valve mechanism and more particularly, to a motor driven valve arranged to open or close the valve through rotation of a valve body of the valve by the driving of a reversible motor, and having incorporated therein an improved mechanism for automatic opening or closing of the valve when it becomes impossible to control the valve due to troubles such as power failures, etc.

Abstract: A valve actuator employs a torsion spring type clutch to engage and disengage a drive motor and an output shaft. The torsion spring normally engages and is connected to a gear which may be engaged by a dog to cause disengagement of the clutch. The output shaft carries a pinion which is engaged with a rack carried on a piston which is slidable in a closed fluid containing cylinder. The piston includes an axial passageway with a metering orifice therein which smoothes the operation of the actuator and provides positive stops for the output shaft with a minimization of impact between the piston and the ends of the cylinder.

Abstract: An electrically operated fail-safe valve actuator employs a spring which is wound to store energy during operation of the electric drive motor, an electric clutch operable to disengage the drive motor from the actuator output shaft in response to loss of power from the electrical supply whereby the spring drives the valve in the opposite direction.