Attachments Patents (Class 251/90)
  • Patent number: 7066441
    Abstract: A device for controllably restricting flow through a resilient tube including a block and a pair of generally J-shaped leg members pivotally mounted to the block. The leg members, when pivoted together, together provide a tube support surface. The block is formed with a bore in which there is a rotatable internally threaded sleeve. A jaw member having a threaded shaft is threadedly mated to the sleeve and a knob is fixedly secured to the sleeve for rotation therewith. Accordingly, rotation of the knob moves the jaw member toward and away from the tube support surface to provide desired compression to a length of resilient tubing captured between the jaw and the tube support surface. By pivoting the leg members away from each other, space is provided for installation of the flow restriction device at any desired point along the length of the tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corporation
    Inventor: Stephen Warburton-Pitt
  • Patent number: 7040361
    Abstract: A dispensing nozzle activation lever lock for use with a dispensing nozzle such as a fuel dispensing nozzle having a handle portion, a trigger guard, and a pump activation lever allows an operator to dispense fuel without having to continuously hold the pump activation lever. The fuel pump activation lever lock includes a first and second engagement arm disposed opposite ends of each other. The first engagement end engages the trigger guard, while the second engagement arm engages the pump activation lever such that the fuel pump activation lever lock holds the pump activation lever in a position wherein the fuel pump nozzle continuously dispenses fuel without the operator holding the pump activation lever. The fuel pump activation lever lock also preferably includes a slot sized and shaped to engage a fuel cap such that the fuel pump activation lever lock may be stored within a fuel chamber on a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Inventors: Benjamin J. Soussan, Benjamin E. Caron
  • Patent number: 7021501
    Abstract: A lock for a liquid dispensing faucet lever includes a locking member that is attachable to the faucet and can be positioned in a locked position where the lever seats in a notch formed therein to prevent moving the lever from the closed position to the open position. The locking member may be attached to the faucet via an opening extending therethrough for receiving the faucet's spout, such that the locking member is rotatable about the spout. The locking member is rotatable from the locked position to an unlocked position in which the lever is not seated in the notch, allowing movement of the lever from the closed position to the open position. The locking member may be configured such that it automatically moves from the unlocked to the locked position upon movement of the lever from the open to the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: Ron Bauer
  • Patent number: 6997209
    Abstract: A locking device of an air-operated normally-closed valve for a gas cylinder includes a housing; a piston assembly provided in the housing; a tapered axial member having an annular outer tapered surface and positioned coaxially with the piston assembly axis; a lock nut which is screw-engaged with the housing and coaxial with the tapered axial member; an annular inner tapered surface formed on an inner peripheral surface of the lock nut to correspond to the annular outer tapered surface; an intermediate cylinder member positioned between the annular outer and inner tapered surfaces; and a lock piece inserted into a radial through hole and contacting the annular outer and inner tapered surfaces. The lock nut can press the lock piece against the annular outer tapered surface via the annular inner tapered surface to lock the piston assembly by adjusting the lock nut with respect to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Fujikura Rubber Ltd.
    Inventor: Takashi Ejiri
  • Patent number: 6837475
    Abstract: A valve-operating device for an engine includes a camshaft which is disposed on one side of a plane including axes of an exhaust valve and an intake valve and which has an axis substantially perpendicular to the plane. The camshaft and the exhaust and intake valves are connected to each other through a first rocker arm and a second rocker arm which are swingably carried on a rocker shaft disposed substantially perpendicular to the plane. The camshaft is formed with a large-diameter exhaust cam and a small-diameter intake cam adjoining a portion of the exhaust cam on the side of the plane. The exhaust and intake rocker arms are provided with arm portions extending in an axial direction of the camshaft to come into sliding contact with outer peripheral surfaces of the exhaust and intake cams, respectively. Thus, it is possible to open and close the exhaust and intake valves with inherent opening and closing timings, while easily avoiding interferences among components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Fumio Ogata, Akihisa Shinoda
  • Patent number: 6837264
    Abstract: Various toilet valves and methods are described that provide for locking of the toilet filled in a closed state. In one embodiment, a toilet fill valve is provided having an actuating arm. The toilet fill valve is closed when the actuating arm is disposed in a first position and is open when the actuating arm is disposed in a second position. A valve lock is attached to the actuating arm. The valve lock includes an unlock position and a lock position. The valve lock fixes the actuating arm in the first position when the valve lock is in the lock position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: MJSI, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Schuster
  • Patent number: 6832636
    Abstract: A lever for use with a fuel nozzle having a trigger disposed intermediate a hand piece and a hand guard, the trigger being laterally displaceable toward the hand piece so as to actuate a fuel flow. The lever includes an elongate member having a handle on one end and a fulcrum located adjacent an opposite end. The fulcrum is adapted to engage the hand guard. The lever also includes a bearing configured to engage the trigger such that, in use, the handle is rotatable about the fulcrum so as to displace the trigger toward the hand piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Inventor: Graeme Harrison
  • Patent number: 6830086
    Abstract: A clip that holds the dispensing lever of a fluid dispensing pump in an open position, thereby controlling the flow of liquid from the pump without the necessity of the user manually applying pressure to the dispensing lever. One use of the clip is on the gasoline pumps at self service gasoline pumps. The clip is of a generally U-shape and comprises a shank, two upwardly turning legs at each end of the shank and a first and second arm pivotally attached to the first and second legs, respectively. The clip is capable of alternating between a folded state and an extended state. The clip is constructed so that the first and second arms pivot inwardly towards the shanks reducing the clip to the compact form when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventors: S. Douglas Smith, Kenneth L. Preuitt, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040222396
    Abstract: A handle (2) as actuating device for valves (1) is proposed, comprising a fastening head (10) for fastening to a spindle (7) of the valve (1) and an actuating arm (11) for rotatably actuating the spindle, the spindle (7) being arranged in a valve housing (5) so as to be rotatable about the axis of rotation of a sealing part, the actuating arm (11) being arranged to be movable perpendicularly to the axis of the spindle (7) from a closed position into an open position of the valve (1). The actuating arm (11) has means (14) for preventing the actuation of the handle (2), the fastening head (10) has a fastening means (21) for fastening the handle (2) to the valve spindle (7), and the handle (2) has a sealing plate (15) for sealing the fastening means (21).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2004
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventors: Jurgen Miklo, Walter Schapper
  • Patent number: 6748970
    Abstract: A fluid diaphragm valve and interconnected pilot valve apparatus for control flow of fluid discharge from a pressurized fluid distribution system. The apparatus has a primary valve with an inlet adapted to receive fluid under pressure, and an outlet adapted to discharge fluid to an outlet conduit. A diaphragm chamber is provided in the primary valve that is responsive to fluid pressure controlled by a pilot diaphragm valve. Upon release of fluid pressure in the pilot diaphragm valve, the primary valve allows passage of fluid to the outlet conduit. Bleed fluid from the pilot valve is also discharged into the outlet conduit and is thus saved for use. Upon closure of the pilot valve, a bleed port in the primary diaphragm in the primary valve allows repressurization and seating of the primary diaphragm, thus terminating fluid flow through the primary valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Myron Keller
  • Publication number: 20040089830
    Abstract: Disclosed is a valve having one or more ports. The valve comprises a spool slidably disposed within the valve and a generally circular retainer disposed so as to prevent the spool from moving along an axis of the valve. The retainer is capable of opening so as to permit the spool to move along the axis of the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Applicant: HydraForce, Inc.
    Inventor: Yakov Beyrak
  • Patent number: 6631880
    Abstract: A preventative stop valve system for a wheeled trailer carrying hydraulic equipment is disclosed comprising a stop valve fitted for insertion in-line into the hydraulic line servicing the trailer equipment; the stop valve comprising a reciprocating piston moveable between open and closed positions. The stop valve is connected to the pressurized air line extending to the air brakes of the trailer. Actuation of the stop valve is controlled pneumatically by the setting and release of the air brakes of the trailer by the operator, utilizing conventional controls for the air brakes. A manual override mechanism is further provided for opening the stop valve manually in the event that the hydraulic equipment carried by the trailer must be utilized when pressurized air line to the trailers is disconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventor: Leroy J. Kandel
  • Patent number: 6575252
    Abstract: A tool for deactivating a sprinkler head. The tool includes a housing, a first arm supported by the housing and a second arm supported for movement relative to the first arm. A first engagement surface is supported by the first arm and a second engagement surface is supported by the second arm. The first and second engagement surfaces are adapted for positioning intermediate a valve and a receiving support of the sprinkler head. A biasing member is operably connected to the second arm for urging the second engagement surface away from the first engagement surface. A handle is supported by the second arm and is moveable relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Jeffrey Paul Reed
  • Patent number: 6527248
    Abstract: A solenoid valve comprising a body in which there is fixed an electromagnet having a plunger core carrying at least one valve member and movable between first and second positions corresponding respectively to an excited state and to a rest state of the electromagnet, and a manual control pushbutton mounted on the body transversely to the plunger core firstly to slide between an active position in which a cam-forming end of the pushbutton co-operates with the plunger core to bring it into its first position and an inactive position into which the pushbutton is returned resiliently and its cam-forming end is disengaged from the plunger core, and secondly, while in the active position, to pivot between a locked position in which the pushbutton co-operates with an abutment element secured to the body which opposes resilient return, and an unlocked position in which the pushbutton escapes from the abutment element, the abutment element including means enabling it to be releasably fixed to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Parker Hannifin Rak SA
    Inventor: Patrick Muller
  • Patent number: 6520478
    Abstract: A dirty fluid valve having a mechanical latching or detent system to secure the valve in an open or closed position is disclosed. The preferred detent assembly includes a c-ring that is engaged and urged outwardly by radially extending pins. The pins are urged outwardly by a ball bearing that is continuously biased by a spring carrier in combination with at least one belleville spring. The spring is captured between the spring carrier and an adjusting nut that can be rotated to vary the load on the spring. The detent assembly releasingly engages a first detent groove in the valve body when the valve piston is in the valve closed position and releasingly engages a second detent groove in the valve body when the piston is in the valve open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Gilmore Valve Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Rodney C. Hope, W. Robert Cox
  • Publication number: 20020185622
    Abstract: A gasoline pump clip holds the operating lever of the pump nozzle in the “on” position. The nozzle is generally “C” shaped so that it can be used from either side or upside down. One portion of the “C” is inserted into the handle frame to hold the operating lever in its on position while the other portion of the “C” rests on top of the handle frame, thus holding the operating lever to the top of the frame. The “C” shape also guards against rotation of the clip from its working position and makes it compact enough to be secured to the inside of the vehicle's fill port cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Rusty E. Bruns
  • Publication number: 20020171057
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for locking a hose onto a hose coupling for a valve. A rigid linkage is pivotally mounted adjacent to the valve with a hose engaging member at a first end and an actuator engaging member at a second end. The linkage is pivoted to position the hose engaging member in the engaged position overlying and maintaining in engagement a hose with the hose coupling. A manual valve actuator of the valve is moved to a first position with the valve open. The actuator engaging member engages the manual valve actuator to prevent pivoting of the linkage and maintain the hose engaging member in the engaged position until the manual valve actuator has been returned to a second position with the valve closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: David Scobie
  • Publication number: 20020166985
    Abstract: A hand-operated valve with a locking mechanism is disclosed. This valve includes: a valve main body including a valve body, a valve seat, and a screw mechanism which is actuated to bring the valve body into contact/noncontact with the valve seat; a locking mechanism for preventing actuation of the screw mechanism during a time when the valve body is in contact with the valve seat to close the valve; an operating member connected to the valve main body, for actuating the screw mechanism for contact/noncontact operation of the valve body with respect to the valve seat to thereby close/open the valve; and a play providing mechanism interposed in a connection between the operating member and the valve main body, for preventing the actuation of the screw mechanism during a predetermined stage of operation of the operating member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Applicant: CKD CORPORATION
    Inventors: Katsunori Hirose, Takashi Yajima
  • Patent number: 6467751
    Abstract: An inflation valve has a valve housing having an inner wall, a cylindrical inner chamber terminating in a gas outlet, and a gas inlet bore providing fluid communication between the inner chamber and a pressurized gas source. A piston enclosed in the inner chamber has at one end a head directed toward the gas outlet and at the opposite end a valve actuator connector. The piston further has a gas inlet seal, positioned between the head and the actuator connector, that releasably seals the gas inlet bore from the inner chamber when the piston is in a normal, non-actuated position. A valve actuator connected to the actuator connector operates to pull the piston, thereby moving the gas inlet seal away from the gas inlet bore and putting the inner chamber in fluid communication with the gas inlet bore and pressurized gas source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Carleton Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Korpanty, Gary Thomasulo, Christopher Lanza, Oliver Berry
  • Patent number: 6418988
    Abstract: An improved interposer for lifting, supporting and maintaining the operating flow lever/trigger for all of the various gasoline or diesel pump hand inventive device comprises a single element support with two ends Each end of the invention provides variant concave attributes to address the nuances of the multitude of manufactured nozzle handles. While the invention is singular in nature, the design features also address stability during operation regardless of the invention's orientation. And finally, the invention provides for multiple storage options.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventors: James Joseph Palumbo, Robert James Snyder
  • Patent number: 6398184
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device and method for locking a knife gate valve in a position, such as an open and/or closed position. The locking device has a pair of first posts disposed substantially parallel to the shaft. A swivel lock member is mounted to rotate substantially about the axis of the shaft and to reciprocate together with the shaft and the knife. The swivel lock member is selectively rotatable between an unlocked position at which the swivel lock member does not engage the first engageable portions and a locked position at which the swivel lock member engages both of the first engageable portions to prevent the swivel lock member from movement in at least one of the back and forth directions along the axis of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: General Signal Corporation
    Inventors: Craig A. Sowada, Richard R. Ruegemer
  • Patent number: 6371155
    Abstract: A safety device and method to selectively prevent the operation of a faucet handle by unsophisticated individuals are disclosed. More specifically, a water faucet safety device including a faucet handle cover which expands and contracts to enclose the handle, wherein the handle includes a locking mechanism that selectively fixes the cover to the handle and prevents cover expansion, and a restraining bar that cooperates with the cover to prevent rotation of the faucet handle. The restraining bar may be anchored to the faucet spigot or other nearby fixed structures. The device may be configured for use with a single handle or a dual handle faucet. With respect to the dual handle configuration, the device includes a pair of independently operable faucet handle covers sharing a common restraining bar. Thus, when both covers have been separately fixed to the respective faucet handles using the independent locking mechanisms, operation of both handles is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Cory A. Balocca
  • Patent number: 6298872
    Abstract: A fluid diaphragm valve and interconnected pilot valve apparatus for control flow of fluid discharge from a pressurized fluid distribution system. The apparatus has a primary valve with an inlet adapted to receive fluid under pressure, and an outlet adapted to discharge fluid to an outlet conduit. A diaphragm chamber is provided in the primary valve which is responsive to fluid pressure controlled by a pilot diaphragm valve. Upon release of fluid pressure in the pilot diaphragm valve, the primary valve allows passage of fluid to the outlet conduit. Bleed fluid from the pilot valve is also discharged into the outlet conduit and is thus saved for use. Upon closure of the pilot valve, a bleed port in the primary diaphragm in the primary valve allows repressurization and seating of the primary diaphragm, thus terminating fluid flow through the primary valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Myron Keller
  • Patent number: 6286724
    Abstract: A cold drink system for chilling a liquid include a hopper for retaining a quantity of liquid and a hopper cover for covering a mouth of the hopper. A dispensing faucet is connected to the hopper for dispensing liquid therefrom. Structure is provided for locking the dispensing faucet to prevent actuation thereof by an unauthorized user. In addition, structure is provided for retaining the hopper cover on the hopper to deter an unauthorized user from attempting to remove the hopper cover from the hopper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Bunn-O-Matic Corporation
    Inventor: William E. Midden
  • Patent number: 6279621
    Abstract: A portable hands-free gas pumping device and method therefor, comprising a elongated body which can be inserted between a bottom surface of an activation lever and a bottom portion of a gas pump handle frame in order to maintain the activation lever in an activated position during the fueling process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Inventor: J. Terry Gelsomino
  • Patent number: 6273157
    Abstract: A hold-open device comprising a small block that can easily be inserted into a pump handle, thereby holding the handle in the open position. A center hole provides for easy removal of the device when pumping is complete. Removal may be facilitated by simply placing one finger into the hole and sliding the device free of the pump handle. A finger-like protrusion at one corner of the block prevents the device from slipping out of the pump handle during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: George J. Molnar
  • Patent number: 6257273
    Abstract: A lockout device is designed for use with a valve having a pair of spaced apart, generally opposed abutment surfaces, with at least one of the abutment surfaces being shiftable relative to the other in such manner that the spacing between the surfaces decreases when the valve is actuated from a select condition. The lockout device includes a pair of generally oppositely facing engagement faces positionable between the abutment surfaces, and the device is adjustable so that the user may vary the distance between the engagement faces. In this respect, the lockout device may be disposed between the abutment surfaces and the engagement faces may be brought into secure, positive engagement with the abutment surfaces when the valve is in the select condition. This will prevent movement of the at least one abutment surface toward the other, and thereby prevent actuation of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: SPX Corporation
    Inventor: Steven K. Neu
  • Patent number: 6227266
    Abstract: A collapsible gas lever lock that is inserted between the gas lever and the bottom of the gas pump handle to maintain the gas lever in the fueling position eliminating the need apply a constant squeezing force to the gas lever during the entire fueling operation. The compressible gas lever lock includes a support assembly and a securing strap assembly. The support assembly includes top and bottom support plates connected together by a spring and a fabric outer cover. The securing strap assemblies holds the top and bottom support plates in the compressed configuration between uses for carrying in a purse or pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventors: Vincent Moore, Artimio Blackburn
  • Patent number: 6220567
    Abstract: There is provided in accord with the present invention a work vehicle having a fluid actuated and mechanically linked attachment, which attachment is operatively connected to a valve having a control valve spool reciprocally mounted in the control valve body and having a control valve lock mounted thereon. The control valve lock comprises a rod engaged at one end with the valve spool and having a groove at the other end, with the rod maintaining a centering spring assembly in contact with the valve spool. An actuator, such as a solenoid, is mounted and orientated normal to the rod. The actuator, such as a solenoid, has a pin aligned to selectively engage the groove in the rod. The solenoid is in operative communication with a control switch to selectively operate the solenoid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Case Corporation
    Inventor: Jonathan L. Buelow
  • Patent number: 6216725
    Abstract: A cover for preventing misoperation is easily and certainly attached/detached to/from an operating piece for manual operation provided for a fluid pressure control device. It is attached so as not to be lost even when the cover is detached for manual operation. For this purpose, retaining grooves 7a and 7b are formed on the outer face of a plunger-type operating piece 3 provided on the top face of the body 4 so as to be projected. A cylindrical cover 5 is provided with a hook 10 which is resiliently retained by the retaining groove 7a or 7b and a string-shaped connecting member 12 which is connected to the operating piece 3, thereby preventing the cover 5 from being lost. The height of the cover 5 is set to be equal to or higher than that of the operating piece 3 in a non-operating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Yukihiro Matarai, Yoshio Aso, Makoto Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 6155287
    Abstract: In a fluid pressure control device such as a solenoid-controlled valve having an operating piece for manual operation which is a selector-type operating piece, a cover for preventing misoperation is attached to the selector-type operating piece. Consequently, a cover 6 for preventing misoperation comprised of a base part 10 having an attaching part 14 to be fixed to the casing and a lid part 11 which is integrally connected with the base part 10 via a bending part 12 which can be bent and stretched is attached to a selector-type operating piece 5 having a handle 5a for manual operation at the top. By bending the bending part 12, the lid part 11 can be closed between a closed position covering the handle 5a and opened an open position to release the handle 5a.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Yukihiro Matarai, Yoshio Aso, Makoto Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 6095173
    Abstract: An element is provided which includes a control section connection end and a setting position end for enabling a setting of the filling mechanism, with automatic shut-off. The setting end includes a retaining portion. The retaining portion acts to retain the element associated with a gasoline filling mechanism, even after gasoline filling shut-off. The element includes a hole or opening. The opening formed in the device adaptor element receives a connection element. This arrangement is particularly useful for supporting keys or other functional devices such as a bell which may be connected with the automatic gas fill adaptor element device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Inventor: Anthony G. Perry
  • Patent number: 6082393
    Abstract: An apparatus for exercising an emergency shutoff valve of a steam turbine and methods for installing and operating the same. A frame of the apparatus mounts on top of an emergency shutoff valve body and spans the axis of a valve stem of the emergency shutoff valve. A plunger is suspended from the frame and connects to the top of the valve stem of the emergency shutoff valve. The emergency shutoff valve, which is biased to spring closed, is held in place by the apparatus. With the valve thus secured, the tripping mechanism for the emergency shutoff valve can be disconnected from the valve stem and exercised, tested, or serviced. Additionally, the valve stem can be moved or exercised to assure its operability and to dislodge deposits or corrosion from the valve stem. Movement of the plunger is limited by retainer means that restrict movement of the plunger relative to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventor: Randy G. Tye
  • Patent number: 6079639
    Abstract: An auxiliary handle with a latching trigger is provided for a power washer pressure gun. The latching trigger is operable to hold the gun trigger in the "on" position. The latching trigger avoids fatigue in the hand of the operator of a conventional power washer pressure gun resulting from the need to hold the gun trigger in the "on" position during washing. The latching trigger includes a quick release mechanism having a ratchet with a notch. A wrist brace with a rigid support plate and a flexible strap is provided, attached to the auxiliary handle. The latching trigger includes a tong shaped to partially encircle the gun trigger thereby preventing disengagement of the auxiliary handle from the gun when the gun trigger in the "on" position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventor: Scott M. Barbato
  • Patent number: 6070625
    Abstract: A brace has been invented for releasably maintaining a control lever of a gasoline pump apparatus in a selected position, the brace, in certain aspects, having a body member, at least two pairs of spaced-apart opposed separation members on the body member, including at least a first pair and a second pair, the first pair spaced-apart a first distance and the second pair spaced-apart a second distance which is different from the first distance. In another aspect the brace has a hole through the body member; and in certain aspects, an item is releasably disposed through the hole in the body member. In other aspects one or more channels between two of the separation members facilitates flexing of the body member. In another aspect, a brace has been invented which has a first part, a second part, a spring having a core portion, a first end connected to the first part, and a second end connected to the second part, and the spring urging the two parts to move together rotating about the spring's core portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Inventors: Royce F. Robinson, Josette D. Robinson
  • Patent number: 6044860
    Abstract: A lockout device is designed for use with a valve having a pair of spaced apart, generally opposed abutment surfaces, with at least one of the abutment surfaces being shiftable relative to the other in such manner that the spacing between the surfaces decreases when the valve is actuated from a select condition. The lockout device includes a pair of generally oppositely facing engagement faces positionable between the abutment surfaces, and the device is adjustable so that the user may vary the distance between the engagement faces. In this respect, the lockout device may be disposed between the abutment surfaces and the engagement faces may be brought into secure, positive engagement with the abutment surfaces when the valve is in the select condition. This will prevent movement of the at least one abutment surface toward the other, and thereby prevent actuation of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: SPX Corporation
    Inventor: Steven K. Neu
  • Patent number: 6029686
    Abstract: A freeze protection plug has latching balls engageable bayonet-fashion with grooves in a fitting. The balls are normally held in engagement with the grooves by a cam, but move inward to release the plug from the fitting when the cam is moved by a thermal actuator carried by the plug. The balls are retained in tapered openings in the wall of the plug to reduce jamming. Helical ramps in the grooves permit the use of a strong, reliable plug ejecting spring, and make manual insertion of the plug easy. Insertion is aided by the ribs of a plastic cap, which facilitate manual grasping and rotation of the plug. A paint shield ring prevents failures resulting from paint bridges adhering both to the plug and to the fitting. A unitary molded lanyard with two oval loops prevents loss of the plug. The seal on the plug is located on the liquid system side of the latching balls and isolates moving parts from the liquid system, and is of small diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Fred L. Pirkle
  • Patent number: 5950982
    Abstract: A new FAUCET SAFETY STOP for preventing a user, especially a child, from turning a water faucet beyond a predetermined point. The inventive device includes a clip member having a pair of spaced apart arms, and a mid-portion connecting the arms together. The arms define a space therebetween adapted for receiving a portion of a base of a faucet between the arms. A stop tab is extended from the first edge of the clip member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventor: Gloria Y. Williams
  • Patent number: 5931150
    Abstract: A removable interlock spacer is disposed between the rear face of a control knob and the face of a control panel of a cooking device, such as a stove or a barbecue grill, to prevent the control knob from being pushed in far enough to activate the associated cooking element(s). The push-in-and-turn type switches used in such devices require that the control knob be pushed in before the switch can be moved from its off position. The interlock spacer is of sufficient thickness to prevent the control knob from being pushed in far enough to allow the switch to be moved from its off position. Thus, the cooking element cannot be activated with the interlock spacer in position. When the cooking device is to be used, the interlock spacer may be removed and the switch will operate normally. Thereafter, when cooking is complete, the interlock spacer is re-installed so that young children and the like will not inadvertently create a hazard to themselves and others.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Inventors: Cynthia L. Bowen, Walter Lee Bowen
  • Patent number: 5868158
    Abstract: A device capable of preventing deformation of an inflating valve on an inflatable article, includes a solid plug member for press-fitting into an air inlet of the inflating valve, a protective ring to be sleeved on a flexible plug unit of the inflating valve, and a connecting section which is disposed between the solid plug member and the protective ring. The connecting section has a length sufficient to straighten a connecting portion of the inflating valve between a flexible valve body and the flexible plug unit once the solid plug member is press-fitted into the air inlet and the protective ring is sleeved on the flexible plug unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Union Plastic Products Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-Chang Yuan
  • Patent number: 5752554
    Abstract: A retaining device comprising two articulating clamping portions which encompass around a gasoline pump handle frame, depressing and holding the operating handle, thereby fixedly securing the pump trigger to allow dispensing of gasoline without attendance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Scott Campbell
  • Patent number: 5649437
    Abstract: A lockable cover and seal for a threaded nozzle or spout, such as a hose bib cock assembly having a passageway, an end face, an external threaded portion adjacent the end face, and anti-siphon valve in the passageway including a portion protruding outward of the end face, generally includes, in combination, a lid, a seal, a swivel arm, and a shielding cap. The lid is bell-shaped and has a central axis, an inner end including a threaded portion for threaded engagement with the threaded portion of the spout, a central cavity and an annular shoulder facing inwardly for juxtaposition to the spout end face. The seal includes an inner side for sealing against the end face of the spout and an outer side for sealing against said annular shoulder and a forward extending central recess for receiving any protruding portion of the anti-siphon valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Inventors: Edward Royka, Jr., David Rousseau
  • Patent number: 5647389
    Abstract: An indexable latching handle assembly for quarter-turn rotary valves which permits the arc of operation to be oriented as necessary to avoid surrounding obstacles and enhance ease of operation. This handle assembly has a latching device capable of latching the valve in the closed position or in the open position and is readily disengaged without regard to the orientation of the handle on the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Assignee: Parker & Harper Companies, Inc.
    Inventor: David G. Holloway
  • Patent number: 5595367
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a holding device that is used for holding and maintaining a conventional gasoline pump in an opened position. The holding device consists of a retaining mechanism and a C-shape clamp. The retaining mechanism is used to provide for the holding device to be removably secured in the proximity of the opening of the gasoline fuel line of a vehicle. The C-shape clamp includes a back portion that is attached to the retaining mechanism. This C-shape clamp further includes a pair of identical arms extending from opposite ends of the back portion. This arrangement provides for the arms of the C-shape clamp to engage the lever and handle of a gasoline fuel pump and maintain the gasoline fuel pump in an opened position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Inventors: Roy Sternes, Mark A. Rutledge
  • Patent number: 5590682
    Abstract: A water faucet rotation prevention device that prevents injury to children and the like by preventing the inadvertent and unwanted rotation and opening of bathtub water faucet valves. The water faucet rotation prevention device includes an upper portion, a lower portion, pivoting apparatus, and maintaining apparatus. The upper portion removably receives a part of a pair of spaced apart water faucets. The lower portion is pivotally mounted to the upper portion and removably receives a remaining part of the pair of spaced apart water faucets. When the water faucet rotation prevention device is in the open position the pair of spaced apart water faucets are accessible for rotation and when the water faucet rotation prevention device is in the closed position the pair of spaced apart water faucets are unaccessible for rotation. The pivoting apparatus pivotally mounts the upper portion to the lower portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Inventor: Christopher D. Fischer
  • Patent number: 5560233
    Abstract: A locking device for air brake valves on vehicles is provided which comprises releasable elements for engaging an air brake valve control knob at the dashboard of the vehicle to prevent the control knob from being pushed inwardly to release the air brakes when the locking device is properly secured in place between the head of the control knob and the dashboard of the vehicle. A first element and a second element are adapted to be coupled together about the shaft of the control knob, and locked together. A portion for engaging the head of the control knob prevents removal of the head from the shaft of the control knob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Inventor: Gerald Watkins
  • Patent number: 5520207
    Abstract: A remotely monitored tamper bar apparatus for monitoring two shut-off valve handles of a water supply backflow preventer includes an elongate U-shaped member having a base and two side legs. The base and two side legs form a channel for receiving the handles and to prevent movement of the handles. A switch is operatively associated with the U-shaped member. The switch has a first position which maintains the handles within the channel and a second position which allows the U-shaped member to be removed from the handles such that movement of the handles is permitted. The switch provides a signal for remotely monitoring whether the switch is in the first position or the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Assignee: Central Sprinkler Corporation
    Inventors: Richard F. Newsome, Gary Peterson, Carmine Schiavone
  • Patent number: 5487493
    Abstract: Improved frozen beverage dispensing apparatus includes a latch member for inhibiting operation of the dispensing apparatus when the apparatus is in a defrost cycle. The apparatus includes a container for storing a beverage under pressure in at least a partially frozen state, a normally closed dispensing valve mounted with the container and a manually operable lever for operating the dispensing valve. The dispensing valve has a longitudinal bore communicating with the interior of the container. A defrost relay operates a solenoid at the onset of the defrost cycle to move the latch member into engagement with the lever. When the defrost cycle has been completed, the solenoid disengages the latching member from the lever so that the lever can be operated to open the dispensing valve. A faucet member extends downwardly from the dispensing valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Inventor: Rex P. McNabb
  • Patent number: 5487418
    Abstract: An improved construction for a vehicle gas cap includes a threaded engagement portion, a main body for sealing the gas tank throat and for allowing manipulation of the improved cap, a disk, and a hinged C-clamp attached to the main body. The disk is dimensioned such that it allows for the retaining of the trigger of a gas pump handle in an operable position when fitted into the gas pump handle trigger slot. The C-clamp portion is dimensioned such that it allows for the retaining of the trigger of a gas pump handle in an operable position when fitted thereover. The disk of the cap is the same height as the clamp portion's thickness, and allows for a flush surface overall when the C-clamp is folded down into a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Inventor: Bernard Reyes
  • Patent number: 5485869
    Abstract: In accordance with the invention, the hydraulic dual solenoid directional control valve embodying the invention includes means at each end of the hydraulic dual solenoid directional control valve which includes a hinge fixed to the coil at each end, a lever pivoted to the hinge and an elbow connected to the hinge and connected to a common rod. The rod has a non-circular sleeve, preferably square, which projects normally through a complementary opening in a projection on one of the hinges. When the rod is moved in one direction, the sleeve and rod are moved such that an interference fit is provided with rotation between the sleeve and the projection on one hinge causing the lever to yieldingly apply force to the pin of the corresponding solenoid, actuating the valve in one direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Assignee: Vickers, Incorporated
    Inventor: Ronald L. Haynes