Perpendicularly Reciprocating Tube Contacting Element Patents (Class 251/7)
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Publication number: 20100200613Abstract: The present invention provides a tubing adapter assembly. The assembly includes a fitment having an annular flexible mounting flange having a planar surface, and a generally centrally disposed, generally cylindrical annular wall extending axially away from the planar surface defining a passage way therethrough; and a tubing adapter having a first end and a second end opposed to the first end, a portion of the second end being positioned within the passageway, the second end having a first cylindrical wall having an outer surface having a member for fixedly attaching the tubing adapter to the fitment, the tubing adapter having a second generally cylindrical wall at the first end dimensioned to be inserted into a lumen of a tubing.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2009Publication date: August 12, 2010Applicant: DS SMITH PLASTICS LIMITEDInventors: Mark A. Smith, Carsten Pfromm
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Patent number: 7766301Abstract: The present invention involves, in some embodiments, mechanisms and methods of occluding collapsible tubing with an occluder to prevent fluid flow therethrough. In some embodiments, a tube occluding mechanism is disclosed that includes a bendable occluding member for creating a force that can be applied to a collapsible tube to occlude the tube. In some embodiments, the collapsible tube can be an inlet/outlet tube on a removable pumping cartridge that is coupled to a reusable pump drive component when the system is in operation. In such embodiments, the occluding mechanism can be attached to the reusable component and can be used to block fluid flow to and from the pumping cartridge. In some embodiments, the occluding member can comprises a spring plate which can create a force to occlude tubing when in a relaxed, unbent configuration, and which can be bent to unocclude the tubing.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2009Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: DEKA Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Larry B. Gray, Richard J. Lanigan
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Publication number: 20100127194Abstract: A cinch valve includes an upper plate having a first aperture; an orbital plate rotatable relative to the upper plate and having a second aperture substantially aligned with the first aperture; an actuator coupled to the orbital plate arranged to rotate the orbital plate between a first position and a second position; and a plurality of cables each having a flexible portion and each having a first end and a second end, wherein each first end is coupled to the upper plate and each second end is coupled to the orbital plate. Rotation of the orbital plate from the first position to the second position causes the plurality of cables to converge and form a woven closure in approximately the center of the second aperture.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2008Publication date: May 27, 2010Applicant: ACRISON, INC.Inventor: Marc S. Landry
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Patent number: 7699077Abstract: A transport system for dry nanoparticles (18b). According to the invention, the nanoparticles (18b) are magnetized or electrically charged for transportation, a magnetic or electrical field is produced by a field generator (20a, 20) in the transport channel, and the nanoparticles (18b) migrate through the transport channel (12). The nanoparticles can be discharged through a discharge opening (13) which enables dosing to take place. In order to agglomerate the nanoparticles (18b) or to prevent attachment onto the inner wall (26), a coating (27) of the wall can be offset in oscillations by piezo electric actuators (28), the oscillations being transferred to the nanoparticles (18b). The dry nanoparticles can be handled in an advantageous manner due to the transport system, such that the dry nanoparticles need not be treated as a suspension.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2005Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Jens Dahl Jensen, Ursus Kruger, Volkmar Luthen, Heike Schiewe
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Patent number: 7686027Abstract: A multi-port valve arrangement and removable valve element for use in sanitary environments that comprises at least three ports formed by the joining of at least two valve casing bodies at angles necessary to accommodate multiple connecting fluid streams. A seamless, flexible element is used within the valve arrangement to connect the fluid streams. The valve casings may be hinged on one side to permit removal of the top portion of the valve casings and removal/exchange of the flexible element without complete disassembly of the valve casing and without the use of tools.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2008Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Parker Intangibles, LLCInventors: Steven D. Welch, Robert J. Elbich, Erik Zetterstrand
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Patent number: 7617952Abstract: Portable dispensers and methods of use are disclosed herein. A portable dispenser includes an output device and a housing having a receiving area configured to accept a container having an opening and housing a viscous fluid (i.e., a disinfecting gel). The housing also includes a fastener for selective attachment to an article of clothing. The output device is selectively coupled to the container so that the viscous fluid may selectively pass from the container through the container opening and the output device. An output device of another portable dispenser is selectively coupled to the container so that the fluid may selectively pass from the container through the container opening and the output device without first being transferred from the container to the dispenser for storage. Methods for using the portable dispensers are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2006Date of Patent: November 17, 2009Inventors: George A. Saleh, Caleob T. King
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Patent number: 7611497Abstract: The invention relates to a device for handling a catheter with an elongate valve body (12), a lever arm (26) which is, prestressed by means of a spring element and mounted pivotably on the valve body (12) so as to be pivotable from a first end position into a second end position (34) counter to the prestressing force of the spring element, a pressure piston (24) which is received in the valve body (12) and can be moved in the longitudinal direction by means of the lever arm (26) in order to open a sealing element in the valve body (12) when the lever arm (26) is moved in the direction of the second end position (34), and a catch mechanism (40) which has an arresting arrangement (42) and a catch tongue (50) interacting therewith in order to hold the lever arm (26) in at least one catching position.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2006Date of Patent: November 3, 2009Inventor: Helmut Wollschläger
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Publication number: 20090202367Abstract: The present invention involves, in some embodiments, mechanisms and methods of occluding collapsible tubing with an occluder to prevent fluid flow therethrough. In some embodiments, a tube occluding mechanism is disclosed that includes a bendable occluding member for creating a force that can be applied to a collapsible tube to occlude the tube. In some embodiments, the collapsible tube can be an inlet/outlet tube on a removable pumping cartridge that is coupled to a reusable pump drive component when the system is in operation. In such embodiments, the occluding mechanism can be attached to the reusable component and can be used to block fluid flow to and from the pumping cartridge. In some embodiments, the occluding member can comprises a spring plate which can create a force to occlude tubing when in a relaxed, unbent configuration, and which can be bent to unocclude the tubing.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2009Publication date: August 13, 2009Applicant: DEKA Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Larry B. Gray, Richard J. Lanigan
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Patent number: 7569028Abstract: A fine flow pinch adjust has a T shaped fluid communication path. A flexible tube is inserted within the fluid communication path in other than a straight path. A screw is inserted in one branch of the T unoccupied by the flexible tubing such that the screw cooperatively engages threads on the opening wall and such that the screw can engage the tubing when turned sufficiently in a known direction.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2002Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: FlexcorpInventors: Neil G. Stewart, Gordon M. Day
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Patent number: 7559524Abstract: The present invention involves, in some embodiments, mechanisms and methods of occluding collapsible tubing with an occluder to prevent fluid flow therethrough. In some embodiments, a tube occluding mechanism is disclosed that includes a bendable occluding member for creating a force that can be applied to a collapsible tube to occlude the tube. In some embodiments, the collapsible tube can be an inlet/outlet tube on a removable pumping cartridge that is coupled to a reusable pump drive component when the system is in operation. In such embodiments, the occluding mechanism can be attached to the reusable component and can be used to block fluid flow to and from the pumping cartridge. In some embodiments, the occluding member can comprises a spring plate which can create a force to occlude tubing when in a relaxed, unbent configuration, and which can be bent to unocclude the tubing.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2004Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Assignee: DEKA Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Larry B. Gray, Richard J. Lanigan
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Publication number: 20090121166Abstract: A flexible valve that includes a flexible sleeve inserted in a fluid line and made with two circumferential folds, two opposite slides located between the folds displaceably in phase opposition and extending crosswise of the sleeve, and a mechanism for displacing the slides between open an closed positions. A sleeve section connects the two folds, and a closing section made on the sleeve section is supported by the slides. The flexible valve according to the invention has a longer service life and a shorter installation length than hitherto known. It is suitable for use as stop valve in the drain line from a toilet in a railway carriage, in which it can be continuously kept in the closed position without applying energy, and it is furthermore safeguarded against impurities getting out into and fouling the surrounding environment in the railway carriage.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2006Publication date: May 14, 2009Inventor: Hans Christian Gabelgaard
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Patent number: 7472882Abstract: The present invention provides a faucet for tapping a liquid stored under pressure of a gas in a container that has less moving parts subject to wear or breakage, and has a housing made of multiple parts which can be disassembled so the faucet mechanism can be easily cleaned, repaired, or replaced. The faucet mechanism contains a piece of flexible tubing and an arrangement of a pinch roller valve mechanism that compresses the flexible tubing to shut off flow of liquid through the tubing. In one arrangement of the present invention, since the housing does not move and does not come in contact with the beverage being poured, the housing is made of a non-metallic material, such as a plastic or petroleum-based material, which is less expensive than the previous brass or stainless steel housing.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2007Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: Anheuser-Busch, Inc.Inventors: Richard Spray, Rex Loyd McAffee
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Patent number: 7469874Abstract: A tube valve 1 of the present invention includes a tube 6 defining a flow path therein through which a fluid flows, the tube 6 being arranged so that a part of the tube 6 forms at least one curved portion; and an opening/closing mechanism which closes the flow path by folding the tube 6 at the at least one curved portion and opens the flow path by releasing the fold of the tube 6. The curved portion has a bendable part (bending portion) 64 where the tube 6 can be bent, and the tube 6 is folded by bending the bendable part 64. Further, a tube valve apparatus may include the tube valve 1 of the present invention. Furthermore, a head cleaning apparatus for cleaning a head of a printer of the present invention may has one or more tube valve 1 or tube valve apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2004Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventor: Yutaka Akahori
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Patent number: 7469875Abstract: A pinch valve for regulating fluid flow having a close mechanism using push-pull members and an open mechanism using open follower members in order to pinch a sleeve closed and to assist in opening it. In a particular embodiment, a four-bar linkage is employed.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2007Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Inventor: Robert E. Bernstein
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Publication number: 20080237509Abstract: A piping device includes a body, a tube accommodated in the body and defining a flow passage, coupling members each having an insert portion, at one end thereof, to be inserted into the tube in a watertight state, a connecting portion at the other end thereof, and a flange portion at the central part thereof, and holding members each formed with a through hole at the central part thereof. The through hole of the holding member includes, at one end thereof, an expanded-diameter portion having a hole diameter larger than the remaining portion of the through hole.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: ASAHI ORGANIC CHEMICALS INDUSTRY CO., LTD.Inventors: Takashi Yamamoto, Kenro Yoshino
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Patent number: 7419133Abstract: A clamp apparatus for selectively occluding a resilient tube to prevent free flow of fluid in the tube. The device comprises a base member to which the resilient IV tube is attached or through which it passes, and a slide clamp that slides relative to the base member and relative to the tube. The aperture in the slide clamp has a relatively open hole at one end, through which the tube passes when the slide clamp is an open position, allowing fluid to flow through the tube. The aperture also has a relatively constricted slot at the other end, through which the tube passes when the slide clamp is in the occluding position, preventing fluid flow through the tube. A deflectable cantilevered locking arm on the base interlocks with a detent on the slide clamp to lock the slide clamp at the occluding position to avoid inadvertent free flow. A release tab that is used to release the locking arm from the slide clamp is located off center to avoid inadvertent activation.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.Inventors: Christopher J. Clarke, René Rüedi
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Patent number: 7383853Abstract: A multi-port valve arrangement and removable valve element for use in sanitary environments that comprises at least three ports formed by the joining of at least two valve casing bodies at angles necessary to accommodate multiple connecting fluid streams. A seamless, flexible element is used within the valve arrangement to connect the fluid streams. The valve casings may be hinged on one side to permit removal of the top portion of the valve casings and removal/exchange of the flexible element without complete disassembly of the valve casing and without the use of tools.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2004Date of Patent: June 10, 2008Assignees: Parker-Hannifin Corp., Exigo Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Steven D. Welch, Robert J. Elbich, Erik Zetterstrand
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Patent number: 7367540Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2006Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignee: Lifebridge Medizintechnik AGInventor: Gerhard Brieske
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Patent number: 7367358Abstract: A medical fluid delivery system for the use in the delivery of medical fluids. The medical fluid delivery system may include a pumping system, a disposable medical fluid line set and a valve operating system. The disposable tubing line set may include valves adapted to interface with the valve operating system. The valve operating system may be adapted to operate only selected valves using a single drive means. The pumping system may be operated over a wide range of medical fluid delivery rates by employing a bi-directional drive member and a transmission interfaced with the drive member and a pump.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2005Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignee: Universal Infusion Technology, LLCInventor: David R. Malcolm
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Publication number: 20080099514Abstract: A pourer (10) couplable to an opening (12) of a container (14). The pourer (10) includes a spout (20), which has an outlet passage (22) for discharging liquid from the container (14) and a breather passage (24) for intake of air into the container (14). At least a portion of the spout (20) being deformable, and the outlet passage (22) and breather passage (24) co-extending through the deformable portion. A closure device (34) is used to selectively clamp the deformable portion of the spout (20), thereby closing the spout (20) by constricting both passages (22, 24).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2005Publication date: May 1, 2008Inventors: Daniel Carter, Glenn Lawrence
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Publication number: 20080087853Abstract: A pinch valve has a hose-like valve member with a flexible peripheral wall adjacent to whose outer periphery two diametrally opposite pinch elements are arranged able to be moved toward and away from one another with a greater or lesser pinching of the peripheral wall while performing an operating movement athwart the valve member longitudinal axis. An annular actuating ring coaxially surrounding the valve member may act on the pinch elements for causing the operating movement. The actuating ring is placed in a working space surrounded radially from the outside by a peripheral valve housing wall and is able to be acted on by drive means separate from the actuating ring with a drive force controlling the actuating movement.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2007Publication date: April 17, 2008Inventor: Ulrich Kees
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Publication number: 20080083889Abstract: A flow control pinch valve comprises a flexible outer sleeve and a flexible inner sleeve concentrically disposed within and spaced from the outer sleeve, wherein the inner sleeve defines a passageway for allowing fluid to pass therethrough. The sleeves are attached to each other at each end thereof and adapted to be attached to an inner surface of a fluid conduit. An annular space for receiving pressurized fluid is defined between the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve such that the inner sleeve is configured to deflect inwardly thereby controlling fluid flow through the passageway. A first clamping ring is concentrically disposed within the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve at one end; and a second clamping ring is concentrically disposed within the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve at an opposite end, wherein the clamping rings are used to secure the control valve within a pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2007Publication date: April 10, 2008Applicant: RED VALVE COMPANY, INC.Inventor: Spiros G. Raftis
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Patent number: 7338028Abstract: A fluid switch or valve for an implantable fluid delivery system is provided. The fluid switch or valve includes a fluid chamber having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet and an internal magnet disposed within the fluid chamber. The internal magnet is moveable such that displacement of the internal magnet restricts the flow of fluid through the fluid chamber.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2003Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Assignee: MED-EL Elektromedizinische Geraete GmbHInventors: Martin Zimmerling, Claude Jolly
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Patent number: 7303175Abstract: A clamp apparatus for selectively occluding a resilient tube to prevent free flow of fluid in the tube. The device comprises a base member to which the resilient IV tube is attached or through which it passes, and a slide clamp that slides relative to the base member and relative to the tube. The aperture in the slide clamp has a relatively open hole at one end, through which the tube passes when the slide clamp is an open position, allowing fluid to flow through the tube. The aperture also has a relatively constricted slot at the other end, through which the tube passes when the slide clamp is in the occluding position, preventing fluid flow through the tube. The slide clamp includes a groove for receiving a cooperatively shaped rib on the base member. The groove and rib are configured to guide relative movement between the slide clamp and the base so as to prevent significant lateral movement.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.Inventors: Gwyn Smith, René W. Rüedi
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Patent number: 7276047Abstract: A medical instrument including a ductal access device comprising a low profile, ergonomic manifold hub usable to introduce fluids into a breast duct and collect ductal fluid samples including ductal epithelial cells and clumps of ductal epithelial cells from within a breast duct. The ductal access device also comprises an elongated access catheter having a distal end, one lumen and dimensions which permit introduction of the distal end through a ductal orifice so that a distal end of the catheter may be positioned distal to the ductal sphincter of a human breast. The medical instrument may also include and activate valve and a Nitinol introducer.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2003Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Cytyc CorporationInventors: Robert Sakal, Meghan Brennan, Douglas Macarthur, Ben E. Morris, Todd A. Hall, Simon Furnish
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Patent number: 7255322Abstract: There is provided a pinch valve system for controlling a fluid flow in a fluid flow path. The pinch valve system has an elastic sleeve member having a pair of outwardly extending elliptical folds on the circumference. The sleeve member is novel because the elliptical folds provide additional axial lengths that match the circumferential extension of the sleeve member when the sleeve member is in a pinched condition, thereby allowing the sleeve member always to be in a stress-free state. The sleeve member is novel because the inner surface is coated with a fluorocarbon material having superior chemical inertness and high operating temperature, thereby providing the elastic sleeve member with a long service life.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2006Date of Patent: August 14, 2007Inventors: John Tiwet, Rebecca Tiwet
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Patent number: 7168675Abstract: A valve structure having a top part, a flexible media conveyance, such as a tube, a diaphragm and a bottom part with a support for the tube. The top surface of the diaphragm and the bottom surface of the top part may have electrodes attached. When there is no electric potential applied across the electrodes, the diaphragm may rest on and close the passageway in the flexible tube for effectively preventing a fluid flow. When an electrical potential is applied to the electrodes, the diaphragm may be pulled up off from the tube thereby opening or partially opening the passageway in the tube for a media flow or pressure transfer. Partial opening may be for modulation purposes. There may be a tension mechanism attached to the diaphragm. A controller may apply an electrical potential to the electrodes for at least partially opening or closing the valve.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2004Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Eugen I. Cabuz, Cleopatra Cabuz, Tzu-Yu Wang
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Patent number: 7159838Abstract: An apparatus for squeezing pipes, comprising a first jaw having a first squeezing surface and a second jaw having a second squeezing surface. The first jaw and the second jaw are interconnected for relative displacement at proximal ends through a first shaft of the apparatus and at distal ends through a second shaft of the apparatus. The first squeezing surface and the second squeezing surface are separated by a gap adapted to receive a pipe therein. The first jaw is rotatable with respect to the first shaft and engageable with the second shaft such that the apparatus is mountable about a pipe with the pipe being positioned in the gap between the first and the second shaft.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2002Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Société en Commandite Gaz MétropolitainInventors: Gaétan Champagne, Louis Raymond, Marc St-Pierre
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Patent number: 7124996Abstract: A clamp apparatus for selectively occluding a resilient tube to prevent free flow of fluid in the tube. The device comprises a base member to which the resilient IV tube is attached or through which it passes, and a slide clamp that slides relative to the base member and relative to the tube. The aperture in the slide clamp has a relatively open hole at one end, through which the tube passes when the slide clamp is an open position, allowing fluid to flow through the tube. The aperture also has a relatively constricted slot at the other end, through which the tube passes when the slide clamp is in the occluding position, preventing fluid flow through the tube. A deflectable cantilevered locking arm on the base interlocks with a detent on the slide clamp to lock the slide clamp at the occluding position to avoid inadvertent free flow. A release tab that is used to release the locking arm from the slide clamp is located off center to avoid inadvertent activation.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2004Date of Patent: October 24, 2006Assignee: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.Inventors: Christopher J. Clarke, René Rüedi
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Patent number: 7104275Abstract: A control valve includes an elastomeric flow tube, a plunger having first and second ends, and a pinch member connected to the first end of the plunger. The pinch member is situated adjacent the flow tube. A reference surface is positioned generally opposite the pinch member such that the elastomeric tube is squeezable between the pinch member and the reference surface to control fluid flow through the flow tube. A first guide spring is situated between the pinch member and the first end of the plunger, and a second guide spring is situated adjacent the second end of the plunger. A damper may be connected to the plunger. Further, a pressure containing member may situated about at least a portion of the flow tube.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2003Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.Inventor: Joseph C Dille
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Patent number: 7059580Abstract: A pinch valve is described wherein the critical flow path is modified to form a space between two opposing metal disks that transition between an open and a closed state. The disks are characterized by a spring constant and act like a diaphragm. A closure force is applied externally to completely close the disks and truncate flow, while providing a substantially perfect seal. Removal of the external force enables the disks to spring open and initiate flow. The pinch valve advantageously eliminates valve bodies, dead space, moving parts and seals, such as elastomers, that are subject to wear and corrosion.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2004Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Inventor: Nicholas Gralenski
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Patent number: 7032875Abstract: A bag closing apparatus including a frame structure, a cinching assembly and an actuator assembly. The cinching assembly includes at least three pivot arms, each pivot arm including an arcuate portion and pivotably connected to the frame structure. The pivot arms are located relative to each to define a confined closure area. The actuator assembly includes a plurality of actuators for moving the pivot arms between spread positions and closed positions wherein the closure area has a smaller area.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2005Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Assignee: Flexicon CorporationInventors: Keith W. Sterner, Dennis E. Graham, John F. Simonof, Jr., David R. Gill
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Patent number: 7011287Abstract: A pinch valve for automotive applications, wherein the pinch valve comprises a flexible hose, an extension seat cradling the flexible hose, a pinching extension aligned opposite the extension seat on the outside of the flexible hose, and a valve actuator that is operatively coupled to the pinching extension. The valve actuator may be disposed to position the pinching extension in response to predetermined factors or in response to a control system, such as a vehicle's computer.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2004Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Assignee: The Gates CorporationInventor: Martin Elliott
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Patent number: 6962163Abstract: A liquid level control apparatus for a flush tank includes a valve mechanism communicating with a fill tube and operable between open and closed conditions, two floats, at least one of which is coupled to the valve mechanism for closing it when the at least one float reaches a predetermined height, and structure interconnecting the floats so as to substantially prevent their vertical movement until a predetermined liquid level is reached corresponding to the predetermined height, thereby causing sudden movement of the at least one float to the predetermined height and sudden closing of the valve.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2004Date of Patent: November 8, 2005Assignee: George S. Cole & Associates, IncorporatedInventor: Harry W. Edwards
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Patent number: 6948696Abstract: A pinch valve has a resiliently flexible tubular valve member folded upon itself at an intermediate portion of the length of the valve member to establish a folded configuration including a longitudinally extending folded portion, preferably in the form of folds, and an operator for selectively exerting a lateral force upon the valve member to unfold the folded portion, or folds, so as to restrict the flow of fluid through the valve member by closing down the valve member. Upon release of the lateral force, biasing forces established by memory characteristics in the construction of the valve member return the valve member to the folded configuration to open the valve member for unrestricted flow of the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2003Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: General Rubber CorporationInventors: Lloyd B. Aanonsen, Richard J. DiGiovanni
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Patent number: 6923422Abstract: A valve assembly for controlling the flow of fluid through a tube by pinching the tube to prevent fluid flow. The valve assembly includes a valve that receives the tube in a passage between a plunger and a bar. A spring urges the plunger toward the bar to pinch the tube closed. The bar focuses the pinching force of the plunger to reduce the pinching force required to prevent fluid flow. The valve assembly also includes a caliper for opening, locking open and closing the valve and that is attached to the valve with a cable. To open and close the valve, a main lever and lock lever, respectively are rotated in the same direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2004Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Inventor: Ronald Anthony Schmaltz
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Patent number: 6892900Abstract: The invention relates to a valve (21) for a fluid or gaseous medium, with a displaceable valve body (8), by means of which the clear flow cross-section is adjustable. The valve (21), viewed in the direction of flow, comprises a pressure sensor (1) up- or down-stream of the valve body (8), to record the pressure of the medium and the valve body (8) is controlled depending on a signal from the pressure sensor (1) and/or an external controller (2).Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2001Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Inventor: Arno Drechsel
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Patent number: 6883773Abstract: A pinch valve is provided which includes an outer housing into which lower and upper elements are positioned. A flexible, tubular shaped hose, duct, or similar conduit or line to be used under pressure is inserted into and maintained between a support section of the lower pinch element and a support section of the upper pinch element. A resilient spring located between the lower pinch element and the bottom surface of the outer housing compresses the flexible line into a closed position, in order to maintain an effective and leak proof closure of the line. When it is desired that the pressurized line be opened and fluid in the line be permitted to flow, an actuating button located atop the outer housing is pressed. The resulting pressure acts against the compressive force of this spring, causing the lower pinch element to move down within the housing, thereby opening the flexible line to permit fluid flow.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2004Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: Gilwal TechnologiesInventor: Harley Mattheis
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Patent number: 6877713Abstract: The present invention involves, in some embodiments, mechanisms and methods of occluding collapsible tubing with an occluder to prevent fluid flow therethrough. In some embodiments, a tube occluding mechanism is disclosed that includes a bendable occluding member for creating a force that can be applied to a collapsible tube to occlude the tube. In some embodiments, the collapsible tube can be an inlet/outlet tube on a removable pumping cartridge that is coupled to a reusable pump drive component when the system is in operation. In such embodiments, the occluding mechanism can be attached to the reusable component and can be used to block fluid flow to and from the pumping cartridge. In some embodiments, the occluding member can comprises a spring plate which can create a force to occlude tubing when in a relaxed, unbent configuration, and which can be bent to unocclude the tubing.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 1999Date of Patent: April 12, 2005Assignee: Deka Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Lawrence B. Gray, Richard J. Lanigan
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Patent number: 6871660Abstract: A valve comprising valve members which are biased toward a closed or open position is provided with a flexible cable which is used to reposition the valve members by moving the cable so as to overcome the force generated by the biasing means. The cable may be moved by an appropriate actuator, such as a motor. When desired, the cable is moved to its original position allowing the biasing means to return the valve members to their original position. In one embodiment, the cable is slidably constrained within a flexible, non-compressible sleeve. The valve members according to one embodiment ensure complete closure of a resilient tube passing therethrough without the need to radially align the valve members.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2002Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Bioanalytical Systems, Inc.Inventor: James Hampsch
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Patent number: 6868861Abstract: A level control system for controlling the thickness of a work material in a slurry form cast upon a moving belt includes a fluid reservoir disposed above the belt, a sensor lens assembly for sensing the slurry height within such reservoir, and a control valve for adding slurry to the reservoir. A lens disposed near the moving belt and above the reservoir is coupled by fiber optics to a remote sensor amplifier for detecting the height of the slurry. A control circuit responsive to the light sensor regulates the flow rate of the slurry through the control valve.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2001Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Assignee: Credence Engineering, Inc.Inventor: James Edward Ellis
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Patent number: 6869275Abstract: A piezoelectrically driven fluid pump includes a chamber having two opposite sidewalls formed by flexible membranes, and an inlet and an outlet each regulated by a valve. Separate piezo elements are fixed to each of the membranes, to flex the membranes and increase or reduce the chamber volume and thereby draw fluid into the chamber or expel fluid from the chamber. The valves are each formed by two adjacent piezo elements that are supported or flexibly joined together at two opposite ends. When actuated, the valve piezo elements flex outward between the two opposite ends, opening the valve to form an aperture between the two piezo elements. In another embodiment, a fluid pump includes a chamber having one flexible membrane sidewall. A valve-regulated inlet or outlet aperture through the membrane communicates with the pump chamber. A ring-shaped piezo centered around the aperture, on the membrane, flexes the membrane.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2002Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Assignee: Philip Morris USA Inc.Inventors: Henry M. Dante, Hector Alonso, A. Clifton Lilly, Jr.
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Patent number: 6866241Abstract: A portable flow control valve for allowing a user to control fluid flow from a conduit from anywhere along the hose. The portable flow control valve includes a frame assembly being designed for being selectively positioned around the conduit. A clamping member is coupled to the frame assembly whereby the clamping member is slidably positionable with respect to the frame assembly. The clamping member is designed for engaging the conduit whereby the clamping member is for compressing the conduit between the frame assembly and the clamping member for controlling the rate of flow of the fluid through the conduit beyond the clamping member.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2003Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Inventor: Frank Libretto
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Patent number: 6840492Abstract: A slide clamp includes a slot formed in a plate though which a fluid tube is mounted. The tube may be moved to a flow section of the slot or to an occluding section of the slot. Interconnecting the flow and occluding sections is a pinch zone in which the slot is narrower than the occluding section. Because of this narrow slot, the pinch zone resists movement of the tube from either the occluding or the flow sections into another section. The pinch zone includes a pair of curved beams that are formed as a result of apertures formed in the plate at locations laterally outward from the slot of the pinch zone. As a tube is forced from the occluding section to the flow section the curved beams flex outwardly permitting the tube to pass. However, if enough force is not applied to the tube, it will not overcome the curved beams and they will stop movement of the tube. After the tube has passed, the curved beams resiliently return to their rest position once again providing a stop.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2003Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Assignee: Alaris Medical Systems, Inc.Inventor: David E. Boyne-Aitken
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Patent number: 6834842Abstract: A fluid management system is disclosed which includes an injection device, a medical device, and a valve. The medical device is in fluid communication with the injection device. The valve is operatively associated with the medical device, and the valve includes a mechanism for slidably opening the valve.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2002Date of Patent: December 28, 2004Assignee: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.Inventor: Eric Houde
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Publication number: 20040256584Abstract: A fluid switch or valve for an implantable fluid delivery system is provided. The fluid switch or valve includes a fluid chamber having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet and an internal magnet disposed within the fluid chamber. The internal magnet is moveable such that displacement of the internal magnet restricts the flow of fluid through the fluid chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2003Publication date: December 23, 2004Inventors: Martin Zimmerling, Claude Jolly
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Patent number: 6814337Abstract: A valve assembly for controlling the flow of fluid through a tube by pinching the tube to prevent fluid flow. The valve assembly includes a valve that receives the tube in a passage between a plunger and a bar. A spring urges the plunger toward the bar to pinch the tube closed. The bar focuses the pinching force of the plunger to reduce the pinching force required to prevent fluid flow. The valve assembly also includes a caliper for opening, locking open and closing the valve and that is attached to the valve with a cable. To open and close the valve, a main lever and lock lever, respectively are rotated in the same direction.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2002Date of Patent: November 9, 2004Inventor: Ronald Anthony Schmaltz
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Publication number: 20040178375Abstract: A valve assembly for controlling the flow of fluid through a tube by pinching the tube to prevent fluid flow. The valve assembly includes a valve that receives the tube in a passage between a plunger and a bar. A spring urges the plunger toward the bar to pinch the tube closed. The bar focuses the pinching force of the plunger to reduce the pinching force required to prevent fluid flow. The valve assembly also includes a caliper for opening, locking open and closing the valve and that is attached to the valve with a cable. To open and close the valve, a main lever and lock lever, respectively are rotated in the same direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2004Publication date: September 16, 2004Inventor: Ronald Anthony Schmaltx
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Patent number: 6770057Abstract: A flow control system includes a control device for intravenous (IV) tubing or other flexible or compressible tubing, wherein selectors are depressed to cause different amounts of compression of the tubing to partially flatten or squeeze the tube, and, hence, to cause different flow-rates of liquid through the tubing. The flow control system may have a housing surrounding a portion of the tube and the selectors may be moveable in the housing away from the tube to an outward position and moveable in the housing to an inward position against and pressing on the tube so that the selector compresses the tube into reduced-cross-section shape to reduce flow through the axial fluid passage of the tube. The selectors may be positioned in series along the tube, with each selector contacting a different portion of the tube.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2002Date of Patent: August 3, 2004Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventor: Ari J. Feliciano
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Patent number: 6766824Abstract: The valve comprises a flexible resilient valve member which is positioned in a flexible fluid line in a fluid-tight relationship therewith. An actuating element, such as a ring-shaped member, surrounds the valve member, and an actuating coil is positioned adjacent the ring member. An electrical control signal energizes the coil in operation, producing a magnetic field which moves the actuating element to deform the valve member, opening the valve. Termination of the electrical signal permits the valve member to return to its normal closed position arrangement. A feedback control system is provided for the valve which includes providing pre-established limits on time and volume of fluid delivery. Determinations are successively made as to whether such limitations have been met, and the control valve is closed when one such limitation has been met.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2001Date of Patent: July 27, 2004Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventor: Richard K. Taylor