Louver Patents (Class 454/277)
  • Patent number: 11555632
    Abstract: The systems and methods disclosed relate to an air intake assembly, wherein the air intake assembly comprises: a frame comprising a plurality of openings, wherein each one of the plurality of openings comprises a V-shaped cross-section. The air intake assembly further comprises a plurality of slats, wherein each one of the plurality of slats comprises a V-shaped cross-section. The air intake assembly further comprises a stiffener configured to provide structural support to the plurality of slats, wherein the stiffener is disposed within an interior of the frame. The plurality of slats are disposed within the frame through the plurality of openings of the frame and through the stiffener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: Toshiba International Corporation
    Inventors: John Kelley, Enrique Martinez
  • Patent number: 11261872
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes modular fan unit systems and assemblies. A modular fan unit system assembly may include a mounting structure; and a modular fan unit system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: CommScope Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Richard John Smailes
  • Patent number: 10538959
    Abstract: An automated ganged louver assembly is adjusted in orientation by an actuator in the louver header that suspends or supports the louver rotation mechanism. The actuator is energized in response to a determination of solar elevation, which is optionally from a light sensor output via a controller. The light sensor employs an optical element to detect at least one of the sun elevation and azimuth, as well as general exterior light levels. The solar elevation and azimuth can also be determined by calculations from the window orientation and latitude. The optical elements and the controller are coupled to at least one of the louvers or the louver header to provide a self contained system that does not require exterior power or controls, unless desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2020
    Assignee: SERRALUX INC.
    Inventors: Mark E Gardiner, David Allen Lockett, Robert Somers Ford
  • Patent number: 10343699
    Abstract: An air conditioner includes: a suction port; a suction grill provided at the suction port and including a plurality of bars spaced apart from one another and arranged substantially parallel to one another and a suction surface located at suction-side end portions of the plurality of bars; and an air blower configured to suction air from the suction port through the suction grill. Each of the plurality of bars includes an inclined plate portion and a flow straightening plate portion, which are arranged in this order from the suction surface toward a downstream side of the flow of the air, the inclined plate portion being inclined with respect to the suction surface, the flow straightening plate portion being continuously formed from the inclined plate portion and extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the suction surface and toward the downstream side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Masanori Takahashi, Yasuo Onitake, Yoshinori Hara
  • Patent number: 9822532
    Abstract: Improvements in an outside house vent that blocks embers, water and rain that can cause damage to a house of building. The prevention of fire and ember intrusion into a building prevents fires in homes where invalids and children are left alone. The prevention of water into structure further reduces the potential for mold growth in the attic or walls of a home or structure. The filtering further prevents intrusion of creatures such as but not limited to bugs, insects, bees, wasps, animals, critters and other flying and crawling animals from entering the building. The vent is a fireproof set of louver or filter pads with fire arresting screens that is passed through a wall that vents into the building. The vent can be installed on old and new construction to provide improved fire prevention, increase the value and salability in fire prone areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Inventor: George John Sherry
  • Patent number: 8740392
    Abstract: An electricity storage section that stores power from an external power source and supplies the stored power as operating power is provided, and, when an interruption of the external power source to a projection display device is detected, control to reduce the power consumption of a device main body and control to drive an exhaust port shutter so that it is closed by the power supplied from the electricity storage section are performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Takeshi Furihata, Hirokazu Kamatori, Shigehiro Yanase
  • Patent number: 8714758
    Abstract: Light traps, and panels for light traps, are shown and described. In one example, a trap comprises a plurality of panels defining waveforms for at least a portion. The waveforms may be spaced a distance D apart to define a plurality of non-linear air-passages for allowing an airflow (AF) into or out of the poultry house at a velocity (V). The waveforms may include a plurality of light deflective walls (LDWs) for increasing the light reduction factor (RFL).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Red Truck Supply, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Randall Strickland, Cynthia R. Strickland
  • Patent number: 8684803
    Abstract: A vent is mounted in a building wall so as to enable air exchange between the interior of the building and the outside environment. A first set of plural, spaced apart, air guide members and a second set of plural, spaced apart, air guide members are formed using elongate units each having a base element contiguous with opposing leg elements. The base elements of the first set of guide members are arranged in a first vertical plane, while the base elements of the second set of guide members are arranged in a second vertical plane, wherein the planes are in parallel horizontal mutual displacement. The leg elements of the two sets of air guide members are positioned and interlaced to force air flow moving through the apparatus is make a first right angle turn followed by a ā€œZā€ shaped turn and then a second right angle turn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Brandguard Vents
    Inventor: Brent Berkompas
  • Patent number: 8657048
    Abstract: A hydraulic excavator includes a lower travel body, an upper swiveling body, an exterior door, and a louver. The upper swiveling body has a swiveling platform and a frame with a lower end part of the frame being secured to the swiveling platform, the upper swiveling body being swivelably supported by the lower travel body. The exterior door has a curved part in which an opening is formed. The exterior door is openably/closably supported by the frame of the upper swiveling body. The louver blocks the opening in the exterior door in a closed state, and the louver is mounted in the frame of the upper swiveling body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventor: Masaaki Uetake
  • Patent number: 8555591
    Abstract: A louvered door assembly for an outdoor electronic enclosure includes an outer panel attached to an inner panel. Channels for holding louvers are attached to both panels. Each channel has slots formed therein which receive the individual louvers and hold them in position without fasteners. The inner panel holds the louvers in the slots. The louvered door assembly provides a clean look, a compact arrangement, large air flow and resists water ingress into the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: CommScope, Inc. of North Carolina
    Inventors: Joseph Yeh, Walter Hendrix, Michael Paulus, Gabriel Martinez, Wesley Allen Christensen, Paul Brush
  • Patent number: 8517809
    Abstract: A fire resistant louver system and method of making the same includes a plurality of overlapping louvers mounted in a frame for insertion in a door or wall with the louvers arranged to define a circuitous passage there between that allows air flow from one side to the other of the system. The strips of intumescent material mounted on at least selected ones of the louvers so that when the system is subjected to heat above a predetermined temperature the intumescent material expands to close the circuitous passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Zero International, Inc.
    Inventor: Elias Wexler
  • Patent number: 8033900
    Abstract: A vent assembly for attachment to a fluid discharge conduit of the type connected to a clothes dryer, room exhaust fan, or the like is adapted to reduce or prevent the trapping of dirt or lint as well as flapping or vibration of the door in windy conditions. A mount having an opening is received on the conduit and a door is pivotally received by the mount. The door is operable for displacement with respect to the opening between an open position and a closed position when engaged by a fluid, such as air from a clothes dryer, flowing through the discharge conduit. A hood is pivotally mounted over the door and mount opening, and is operable for displacement with respect to the mount when engaged by the door and/or by fluid flowing through the discharge conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: P-tec Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kalvin K. Vanden Bosch, Brian R. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 7927196
    Abstract: A louver module includes a louver module body that extends in a length-wise direction, a width-wise direction and a height-wise direction such that the length-wise direction, the width wise-direction and the height wise direction are oriented perpendicularly relative to one another. The louver module body has a plurality of air passageways extending through the louver module body generally in the width-wise direction. Each one of the plurality of air passageways has a serpentine configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: EVAPCO, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas William Bugler, III, Scott A. Nevins
  • Patent number: 7909686
    Abstract: A flood and combustion air vent includes a louvered panel supporting a rodent screen for placement across an opening in a wall or door of an enclosed space in a building. The apertures in the louvered panel and rodent screen are sized to accommodate ingress and egress of flood water at a rate of water flow sufficient to prevent destructive hydrostatic forces from acting upon either the exterior or interior surfaces of the wall. Additionally, the rodent screen will prevent intrusion of rodents, vermin and reptiles into the enclosed space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Inventor: John J. Achen
  • Patent number: 7827816
    Abstract: A transport refrigeration unit has a front cover that includes a grille supported by and attached to a surround assembly by means of latch members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Carrier Corporation
    Inventors: Shafi N. Khan, Thomas S. Visalli
  • Patent number: 7740530
    Abstract: An air handling system with an air intake device is provided. The air intake device includes first and second air/water separators having a baffle device positioned between the two separators to redirect the air flow from the first separator so that it is flowing generally longitudinally of the air intake device flow passage. A heater is provided to heat flowing air and snow for collection on a second separator having a foraminous device for subsequent collection and drainage from the air intake device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Ruskin Company
    Inventor: Vahe Michael Astourian
  • Patent number: 7722449
    Abstract: A security grill for a security institution has an air inlet face, an air outlet face, and zigzag channels extending from a point adjacent the inlet face toward the outlet face. The zigzag channels are defined by slats which are bent at least twice in alternating directions. The zigzag channels are divided into segments each having a cross-sectional width. The segments adjacent the air outlet face have a cross-sectional width less than any of the other segments along the channel. The slats are bent at certain angles which are larger than those of conventional security grills. Corners are created along each slat as a result of bending the slats in alternating directions. The corners are rounded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: E.H. Price, Limited
    Inventors: J. Paul Nowak, James Fehr
  • Patent number: 7708625
    Abstract: An inlet and/or outlet air hood comprising vertical storm louvers is provided that is particularly well suited for use on a Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit and other marine vessels, although its use is not so limited. The hood may comprise a basic cube shape, which affords a smaller projected footprint than conventional round- or mushroom-shaped hoods and may incorporate an internal flow shaper, such as an inlet/outlet bell, to reduce airflow resistance. In addition, the hood may be configured to incorporate an internal valve or baffle to create a watertight closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: L.C. Eldridge Sales Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Gary T Leseman, Joseph B Davis
  • Publication number: 20100099349
    Abstract: A louver assembly for placement in an opening for regulating the inlet of air, comprising a first blade stack and second blade stack arranged in tandem, and a sill for supporting the first and second blade stack. The first and second blade stacks have a plurality of blades arranged in a horizontally-spaced and vertically-extending configuration defining a plurality of horizontally-spaced and vertical extending air passageways for the passage of air therethrough. The sill has a generally planar first portion for supporting the first blade stack and a sloped second portion for supporting the second blade stack, wherein the sloped portion and the second blade stack define therebetween a void for equalizing pressure within the assembly to facilitate the draining of water therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: MESTEK, INC.
    Inventors: ERIC GOHRING, MICHAEL BINKHOLDER
  • Patent number: 7640710
    Abstract: A replacement ventilation cover and its method of installation in place of an old damaged ventilation cover. The replacement ventilation cover has a peripheral frame and an air permeable structure contained within the interior of the peripheral frame. Guides are prefabricated in the peripheral frame. The Guides hold nails or screws at acute angles relative to the plane of the opening being covered. To utilize the replacement ventilation cover, a central portion of the damaged ventilation cover is removed. This creates an opening without having to remove the nailing flange of the damaged ventilation cover. Consequently, the siding and trim around the vent opening does not have to be disturbed. The replacement ventilation cover is inserted into the remnants of the damaged ventilation cover. Nails or screws are then driven through the guides and into the construction under the old ventilation cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph P. McAtee
  • Patent number: 7594846
    Abstract: A vent screen for an electronic device is provided. The vent screen may include a framework formed from an integral substrate, and a plurality of voids formed in the framework. Typically, the voids are formed by etching away portions of the substrate, and are separated from each another by a plurality of separators formed in the framework. The separators may have a width of less than 1 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: InFocus Corporation
    Inventors: Greg Sample, Robert Gainer, Brian Russell
  • Publication number: 20090221226
    Abstract: An air duct assembly includes upper and lower pliable sheets that can be assembled in a sequence that makes the assembly easier to install and later easier to remove for periodic cleaning. To install the assembly, the upper sheet can be installed first by inserting the edges of the upper sheet within a pair of tracks and then fastening the upper sheet to a vertical supply air duct. An optional airflow modifier (e.g., filter, airflow turning vane, or noise attenuator) can be install where the supply air duct connects to the upper sheet. Once the upper sheet is suspended from the tracks and fastened to the main supply air duct, the lower sheet can be installed separately. Pliable end panels and pliable fasteners (e.g., zipper or VELCRO fastener) can make most of the air duct assembly machine washable. The upper and lower sheets can have different degrees of air permeability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventors: Kevin J. Gebke, Frank Heim, Nicolas B. Paschke
  • Patent number: 7399222
    Abstract: An apparatus for operating an auto-shutter in an air-conditioner having an external casing includes a louver frame having an air exit installed in the external casing, an auto-shutter movable between an opened position opening the exit and a closed position closing the exit, and a shutter driver driving the auto-shutter. The shutter driver includes a driving motor which is rotatably mounted in the casing for tilting forwardly and backwardly, a screw-rod rotationally coupled with the driving motor, a bushing coupled with the rotational rod which ascends and descends along with the rotational rod when rotated, a slider, one end of which is coupled with the auto-shutter and the other end of which is coupled with the bushing. The frame and shutter include cooperating surfaces defining to guide the auto-shutter and cause the driving motor and the rotational rod to tilt by a predetermined angle as the auto-shutter moves from the opened position to the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Winia Mando, Inc.
    Inventors: Kwang Oh Moon, Jun Woo Kim, Jun Hyung Park, Joung Hwa Bae, Hyoung Bok Jung
  • Publication number: 20070281601
    Abstract: A snap-on downwardly deflecting air diverter for freeblow evaporator and/or heating units. The diverter includes a hood having a closed upper section and an open bottom section defined by a front panel and two side panels that extend generally perpendicularly from the front panel. The free edge of-each side panel has at least one fastening element for removably securing the diverter to the outlet grille of the evaporator and/or heating unit. With the diverter in place, air exiting the evaporator and/or heating unit passes through the grille and, in that area covered by the diverter, strikes the inner surface of the hood and is directed downwardly through the open bottom section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventor: David R. Hammonds
  • Publication number: 20070275652
    Abstract: A vent is mounted in a building wall so as to enable air exchange between the interior of the building and the outside environment. A first set of plural, spaced apart, air guide members and a second set of plural, spaced apart, air guide members are formed using elongate units each having a base element contiguous with opposing leg elements. The base elements of the first set of guide members are arranged in a first vertical plane, while the base elements of the second set of guide members are arranged in a second vertical plane, wherein the planes are in parallel horizontal mutual displacement. The leg elements of the two sets of air guide members are positioned and interlaced to force air flow moving through the apparatus is make a first right angle turn followed by a ā€œZā€ shaped turn and then a second right angle turn.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Publication date: November 29, 2007
    Inventor: Brent Berkompas
  • Patent number: 7174740
    Abstract: A built-in type compressor/condenser unit for an air conditioner with an efficient installation structure for installing an increased capacity outdoor unit is provided. The built-in type compressor/condenser unit includes a louver frame installed on a rectangular shaped space formed on an outer wall of a building. The louver frame is divided into a suction area and a discharge area, each with a plurality of louver blades. The compressor/condenser unit casing is positioned proximate the louver frame, with the surface of the casing which faces the suction area and the discharge area of the louver frame open, and the remaining surfaces of the casing closed. A compressor, an air-cooled condenser, and a cooling fan are installed in the compressor/condenser unit casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: LG Electronics. Inc.
    Inventors: Kang-Wook Cha, Si-Kyong Sung, Dong-Hyuk Lee, Seong-Min Kang, Tae-Geun Kim, In-Gyu Kim, Young-Ju Bae, Jae-Hyung Koo, Byung-Il Park, Kyeong-Ho Kim, Yang-Ho Kim, Young-Ho Hong, Kyeong-Wook Heo
  • Patent number: 6990832
    Abstract: A built-in type compressor/condenser unit for an air conditioner with an efficient installation structure for installing an increased capacity outdoor unit is provided. The built-in type compressor/condenser unit includes a louver frame installed on a rectangular shaped space formed on an outer wall of a building. The louver frame is divided into a suction area and a discharge area, each with a plurality of louver blades. The compressor/condenser unit casing is positioned proximate the louver frame, with the surface of the casing which faces the suction area and the discharge area of the louver frame open, and the remaining surfaces of the casing closed. A compressor, an air-cooled condenser, and a cooling fan are installed in the compressor/condenser unit casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: In-Gyu Kim, Young-Ju Bae, Jae-Hyung Koo, Byung-Il Park, Kyeong-Ho Kim, Yang-Ho Kim, Young-Ho Hong, Kyeong-Wook Heo, Kang-Wook Cha, Si-Kyong Sung, Dong-Hyuk Lee, Seong-Min Kang, Tae-Geun Kim
  • Patent number: 6875102
    Abstract: A moisture resistant wall vent for use in an exterior wall of a building includes a louvered front panel substantially in the plane of the wall surface whether the wall has a stucco finish, conventional wall finish or a brick surface. Alternatively, the louvered panel may be recessed from the front edge of the vent coincident with the finish of the exterior wall. Top, bottom, left and right side panels of the vent include laterally extending right angle flanges disposed proximate the rear edges to resist seepage of water along the vent into the wall. To mount the vent in a concrete block wall, a laterally extending T-shaped lintel is attached through slots (for the concrete block wall) disposed in the top panel and a laterally extending plate (if used) is attached through slots disposed in the bottom panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: John J. Achen
  • Patent number: 6814659
    Abstract: A welding apparatus having specially designed louvers that are used to cover vent openings in the enclosure and contain the components of the welding apparatus. The louvers have a common side profile and have a configuration with a rear portion that is preferably horizontal and a front portion that angles downwardly, forming a front edge. An intermediate edge is formed by the front portion and the rear portion meeting at an angle. The intermediate edge is displaced away from a straight line drawn between the front edge and the rear edge. The configuration and spacing between adjacent louvers is designed such that a standard test probe cannot be inserted through the space between any two adjacent louvers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: James J. Cigelske, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6746324
    Abstract: A combustion air vent for use with an extension wall of a building includes a louvered panel substantially in the plane of the stucco wall surface. Top, bottom, left and right side panels extend from the edges of the louvered panel for a distance substantially commensurate with the thickness of the stucco wall externally of the supporting wall framing. One or more bendable tabs are disposed in selected ones of the panels and adapted to be bent to secure an insect screen adjacent the interior surface of the louvered panel. Flanges extend from one or more of the top, bottom, left and right side panels. Fastening means secure selected ones of the flanges to the framing to retain the vent in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Inventor: John J. Achen
  • Publication number: 20040087266
    Abstract: A welding apparatus having specially designed louvers that are used to cover vent openings in the enclosure and contain the components of the welding apparatus. The louvers have a common side profile and have a configuration with a rear portion that is preferably horizontal and a front portion that angles downwardly, forming a front edge. An intermediate edge is formed by the front portion and the rear portion meeting at an angle. The intermediate edge is displaced away from a straight line drawn between the front edge and the rear edge. The configuration and spacing between adjacent louvers is designed such that a standard test probe cannot be inserted through the space between any two adjacent louvers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: James J. Cigelske
  • Publication number: 20040058638
    Abstract: A moisture resistant wall vent for use in an exterior wall of a building includes a louvered front panel substantially in the plane of the wall surface whether the wall has a stucco finish, conventional wall finish or a brick surface. Alternatively, the louvered panel may be recessed from the front edge of the vent coincident with the finish of the exterior wall. Top, bottom, left and right side panels of the vent include laterally extending right angle flanges disposed proximate the rear edges to resist seepage of water along the vent into the wall. To mount the vent in a concrete block wall, a laterally extending T-shaped lintel is attached through slots (for the concrete block wall) disposed in the top panel and a laterally extending plate (if used) is attached through slots disposed in the bottom panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: John J. Achen
  • Patent number: 6676507
    Abstract: A louver member is provided for forming louver assemblies for houses and other buildings for ventilation purposes. The method of installing the louver members includes cutting to size and attaching the same to roof trusses for on-site louver assembly. Each louver member has a somewhat inverted V-shape with a front and an apertured rear to allow air passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventor: Mike E. Darcey
  • Patent number: 6601356
    Abstract: A connector frame for use as a support member for mounting grilles at ventilation openings in a building structure. The connector frame allows the grills to be mounted in slightly different locations to hide imperfections at the edges of the ventilation openings. The connector frame may include a pair of single connector frames that may be separated into two singly usable frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Snyder National Corporation
    Inventor: Darryl L. Snyder
  • Patent number: 6585582
    Abstract: An externally threaded nipple (24) fits through a circular opening (38) in a flexible wall (14). The nipple (24) is carried by a first ring member (18). An internally threaded second ring member (20) is screwed onto the nipple (24). The first and second ring member (18, 20) become connected together and the portion of the flexible wall (14) that immediately surrounds the opening (38) is trapped by and between two inner side surfaces (30, 36) of the two ring members (18, 20). Projecting portions (50) on one of the inner side surfaces are urged against the wall (14) to inhibit rotation of the attachment (16). One of the ring members (18, 20) has louvered fins (42) interconnected by strengthening ribs (44).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: Peter W. Ziegler
  • Patent number: 6575826
    Abstract: Air vent for protecting the public potable water system against terrorism and sabotage. Conventional air vents allow the movement of air in and out of an enclosed reservoir structure but do not stop the penetration of liquids or solids. The present invention allows the movement of air but will not allow any liquids or solids to pass through the vent, even if these liquids or solids are being applied under pressure. This is accomplished by an energy dissipating arrangement of S-shape structural members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Tom H. Myint
  • Patent number: 6571522
    Abstract: The covering system includes at least one panel capable of being placed in an inclined position with respect to a horizontal. The panel incudes an inner chamber, a plurality of suction apertures through which the inner chamber communicates with a void inside of a building, and a discharge aperture disposed at a level higher than the suction apertures when the panel is installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventor: Fabio Perini
  • Patent number: 6508704
    Abstract: An air vent apparatus for blocking light is provided for devices requiring a light source for generating light, such as a presentation projector, an arc lamp, a laser device and the like. The improved air vent apparatus employs a stacked chevron design to minimize the restriction of the flow of air through the air vent while blocking the escape of direct light. In one embodiment of the present invention, the stacked chevron is symmetrically disposed in the air vent housing of the device. In another embodiment of the present invention, the stacked chevron is asymmetrically disposed in the air vent housing so that a vane of the chevron extending towards the interior of the air vent is substantially perpendicular to the air vent housing and substantially parallel to the source of the flow of air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: InFocus Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Clark Wilson
  • Patent number: 6468151
    Abstract: A louver member is provided for forming louver assemblies for houses and other buildings for ventilation purposes. The method of installing the louver members includes cutting to size and attaching the same to roof trusses for on-site louver assembly. Each louver member has a somewhat inverted V-shape with a front and an apertured rear to allow air passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: Mike E. Darcey
  • Publication number: 20020098793
    Abstract: A vent assembly for mounting in a passageway extending through an exterior wall to provide ventilation to the space bounded by the exterior wall includes an apertured panel exteriorly juxtaposed with a security grate to prevent unauthorized intrusion through the exterior wall. Carriage bolts extend through the apertured panel and security grate into engagement with an anchoring element, such as a pair of L-shaped brackets disposed on opposed sides in the passageway. The smooth surfaced head of the carriage bolts, coupled with the square cross-section of the shank adjacent the head mating with square apertures in the apertured panel and in the security grate prevent turning of the carriage bolts from a location external to the exterior wall. Air through the passageway may be filtered with an air filter supported by bolts extending from the security grate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: John J. Achen
  • Patent number: 6325712
    Abstract: A ventilation assembly for ventilating an attic of a building through an opening in the roof or wall of the building. The ventilation assembly includes a vent structure having a mounting portion securing the vent structure to the building over the opening. The vent structure further includes a vent portion having a series of walls defining a series of unimpeded fluid passageways for providing unobstructed fluid flow through the vent portion over the opening. The ventilation assembly includes a partially porous membrane mounted to the roof or wall over the opening and spaced from the fluid passageway to maintain the unobstructed fluid flow through the fluid passageway. The membrane also creates a barrier for preventing the intrusion of particles, debris, insects and the like into the opening while allowing the ventilating to occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Tapco International, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Lawless, III, Charles Schiedegger, J. Richard Logan, Barton Gentsch
  • Patent number: 6322441
    Abstract: A louver member is provided for forming louver assemblies for houses and other buildings for ventilation purposes. The method of installing the louver members includes cutting to size and attaching the same to roof trusses for on-site louver assembly. Each louver member has a somewhat inverted V-shape with a front and an apertured rear to allow air passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Mike E. Darcey
  • Publication number: 20010032429
    Abstract: A connector frame for use as a support member for mounting grilles at ventilation openings in a building structure. The connector frame allows the grills to be mounted in slightly different locations to hide imperfections at the edges of the ventilation openings. The connector frame may include a pair of single connector frames that may be separated into two singly usable frames.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Inventor: Darryl L. Snyder
  • Patent number: 6241602
    Abstract: A gable roof end ventilator comprises a triangular vented member with peripheral mounting flanges, the flanges each lying in a plane inclined relative to the plane of the vented member. The ventilator accommodates variations in roof pitch by tilting the ventilator about its base relative to the plane of an end wall of a building and then securing the ventilator to the end wall and eaves of the building by fasteners through the mounting flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Robert Charles Allen
  • Patent number: 6192640
    Abstract: A double divisible connector frame for use as a support member for mounting return grilles and louvers in a building structure which is rectangular in shape and having a planar surface on one side and a pair of precisely-similar spaced-apart continuous rectangular flanged frames on the other side, and a lineal line of severance equidistant between said smaller flanged frames for dividing said double frame into a pair of similar smaller frames for mounting said grilles and louvers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Darryl L. Snyder
  • Patent number: 6149515
    Abstract: A moisture elimination louver includes a housing which allows fluid flow between an air inlet opening on an upstream side of the housing and an air outlet opening on a downstream side of the housing with a plurality of moisture elimination separator plates positioned within the housing such that respective moisture eliminating air flow channels are formed between each adjacent pair of the separator plates. The moisture elimination louver is modified to included one or more air flow sensors by positioning each of the air flow sensor(s) within a different respective one of the air flow channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Tomkins Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert M. Van Becelaere
  • Patent number: 6113488
    Abstract: A method of retrofitting ventilation systems with security grilles. A first step involves providing a security grille that is larger in size than an existing air duct to be covered by the security grille. The security grille has a flow area sufficient to permit a desired number of air exchanges per hour within a holding cell. A second step involves forming an enlarged plenum chamber where the existing air duct passes through a wall into the holding cell. The plenum chamber has a flow area compatible with the security grille. A third step involves attaching the security grille over the plenum chamber, such that the security grille is fed by a flow of air through the plenum chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Safety Concepts Inc.
    Inventor: Irvin Richard Tiede
  • Patent number: 5987836
    Abstract: A louver assembly and a method for installing the louver assembly into an opening in a wall of a structure are provided wherein the louver includes a frame which and a separate louver section which may be mounted within the frame after the frame has been mounted in the opening in the wall. The frame defines a central channel which extends from an interior opening to an exterior opening. The frame includes a frame flange extending from an exterior edge of the central channel so that, when the frame is in a desired position within the hole in the wall, the frame flange extends around the entire perimeter of the hole to seal the perimeter of the hole. The louver section is selectively mountable within the central channel so that it is prevented from passing through the exterior opening. When the louver section is in a desired position within the central channel, the frame is sealed so that air is prevented from passing between the frame and an outer surface of the louver section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Specialty Metal Fabrications, Inc.
    Inventor: David Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5976009
    Abstract: A security grate is disposed intermediate a conventional multi-apertured vent on the front of a garage door panel to prevent intrusion through the juxtaposed aperture in the panel. Straps or washers serving as a backing plate may be located on the interior of the panel to further hinder unwanted removal of the vent and the security grate from the panel to obtain access to the aperture in the panel. Alternatively, the security grate may be disposed adjacent the interior of the panel and then any backing plate variants may be omitted. A cover of insulating material is attachable adjacent the rear of the panel to prevent airflow through the panel aperture and to provide insulation. A transparent or translucent cover may be substituted for the insulating cover to provide illumination when the garage door is closed. A closeable opening may be provided in the cover to permit airflow therethrough on a selected basis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: John J. Achen
  • Patent number: 5950384
    Abstract: A sheet metal ventilation louver is fabricated out of two types of blades, a center and a top/bottom blade, that are shaped in a manner that permits their slidable engagement with an outer support frame. The side panels making up the outer frame are fabricated out of sheet metal rectangles that have been bent, with slots formed in the bent areas at locations enabling the slidable receipt of the blades within the side panel slots. An outer frame then fits around the side panels, retaining both the side panels and their received blades in position, completing the ventilation louver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventor: James C. Aarness