Valve Patents (Class 70/175)
  • Patent number: 10671028
    Abstract: An automated method for managing a work flow in a process plant includes determining the steps of performing a work item and generating associated displays for an operator or other personnel to perform the steps of the work item. A work item is created specifying a task to be performed in the process plant and determining from the specified task a set of procedures for execution of the work item. For each procedure, an associated display is generated and the associated displays are displayed on a mobile user interface device sequentially in an order in which the set of procedures are to be performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: FISHER-ROSEMOUNT SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Mark J. Nixon, Ken J. Beoughter, Daniel D. Christensen
  • Patent number: 9051806
    Abstract: The separator serves to mechanically separate an actuator and an operating mechanism, such as a choke, a valve, a blow-out preventer or the like, which is displaceable by said actuator, for use especially in the field of oil or natural gas production. The separator is adapted to be arranged between the actuator and the operating mechanism and comprises at least a first component associated with the actuator and a second component associated with the operating mechanism. These first and second components are displaceable relative to one another by means of at least one application part, which is connected to the first or second component, between an engagement position and a release position. The application part is adapted to be brought into releasable engagement with a displacement part which is suitable for handling by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: OneSubsea IP UK Limited
    Inventors: Norbert Lenz, Klaus Biester
  • Patent number: 8381556
    Abstract: This invention relates to a coupling plug lock assembly 2 for controlling access to a coupling plug 1. The lock assembly 2 includes a housing 9 for receiving the plug 1, an actuator 10 moveable between a latch position and a release position, and a lock means 17 for locking the actuator in the latch position. The lock assembly 2 is intended for obstructing access to the plug 1 for discouraging unauthorized access to the plug 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: ASSA ABLOY Australia Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Michael James Blair Gilbert
  • Patent number: 8353309
    Abstract: A hydrant locking device inhibiting unauthorized operation of a fire hydrant and includes a flip-top lid positioning between an open configuration and a closed configuration relative to a base. The flip-top lid is hingedly connected to the base of the locking device. The base may be releasably secured to an operating nut of the fire hydrant or more specifically an operating nut extension that engages the operating nut of the fire hydrant. The flip-top lid may also include a sealed cavity that may include electronics. These electronics may be in electrical communication with a wireless mesh network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Inventors: Joel Embry, King Embry
  • Patent number: 8341988
    Abstract: A locking device for securing a structure comprising an inner body having an inner surface for attachment to the structure, an outer cover located circumferentially about the inner body, the outer cover freely rotating around the inner body in its securing configuration and a key for insertion into an opening in the outer body. First and second magnets are located in spaced apart first and second cavities within the key such that the magnets are oriented with the south pole of the first magnet and the north pole of the second magnet facing in the same direction. The magnets act on a pin within the body of the lock such that, in a first embodiment, when the key is removed from the lock body the pin is magnetically held away from contact with the inner body resulting in a free turning, locked configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventors: Mark Nickeas, Martin Nickeas
  • Publication number: 20120096906
    Abstract: A lock receptacle assembly having a body portion having a first end that includes a bore configured to receive a lock, an end cap removably securable to the first end of the body portion. The end cap having a through bore to allow passage of the lock, such that, when assembled, the lock can lock the end cap and the body portion together. The end cap interlocks with the first end of the body portion so that there is substantially no load on the lock when axial force is applied to the assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Applicant: INNER-TITE CORP.
    Inventors: JOHN C. MAHANEY, SCOTT BRENNER
  • Patent number: 7845367
    Abstract: A lock device includes a first bracket 34 fixed to a screw element 33 and formed with a lock hole 34b; a second bracket 35 which has a fitting portion 35a fitted to the turn-type control lever 30 of an operation pattern selecting valve 16 and which is formed with a lock hole 35f; and a lock 36. The screw element 33 is screwed into a threaded hole 32 formed in an end plate 29 of the operation pattern selecting valve 16 to secure the first bracket 34 to the end plate 29. The fitting portion 35a of the second bracket 35 is fitted to the turn-type control lever 30 to connect the second bracket 35 to the turn-type control lever 30. The lock 36 is insertably attached to the respective lock holes 34b and 35f of the first bracket 34 and second bracket 35 for locking the turn-type control lever 30. With such a structure, the lock device can be manufactured relatively easily without the necessity of processing the operation pattern selecting valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shinya Abe
  • Publication number: 20100101286
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to valves for controlling the flow of fluid and, more particularly, to a valve which is controlled using a master key such that only an authorized person is able to turn the valve on and off. The valve controlled using a master key according to the present invention, which is constructed such that a fluid passage is controlled by rotating a handle relative to a body, includes a locking means for maintaining the locked state of the handle relative to the body. Furthermore, a master key slot, which extends to the locking means, is formed in the handle, so that, when a master key is inserted into the master key slot, the locked state of the handle is released such that the fluid passage can be controlled by rotation of the handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventor: Jong Chan Yoon
  • Publication number: 20090266119
    Abstract: A locking clamp device is provided with first and second clamping members. The first clamping member includes a base member with a first clamping surface and a locking member movable with respect to the base member between a securing position and a releasing position. The second clamping member is slidably engaged with the first clamping member and selectively movable to a plurality of clamping positions. The second clamping member includes a second clamping surface opposite the first clamping surface. The lockout device further includes a means for preventing movement of the locking member from the securing position to the releasing position. The locking member is configured to secure the second clamping member in one of the plurality of clamping positions when the locking member is in the securing position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: MASTER LOCK COMPANY LLC
    Inventors: Michael BROJANAC, Mark JOHNSON, Frank SCOTT, John WEBER
  • Publication number: 20080271501
    Abstract: The invention relates to a locking device for a lock opening which is arranged in a wall between a first and a second recipient, said lock opening comprising a blocking element, which is arranged in the inner chamber of the first recipient, and a counter-plate which is associated with the blocking element. A first magnet device is provided in an area of the counter-plate and a second magnet device, which is associated with the first magnet device, is provided in the region of the blocking element. In order to close and/or open the locking device by means of the first and second magnet device, a positive and/or negative contact pressure can be produced between the blocking element and the counter-plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Applicant: LEYBOLD OPTICS GMBH
    Inventors: Mario Roder, Alexander Muller, Andreas Caspari, Thomas Vogt
  • Publication number: 20080127689
    Abstract: A locking assembly is provided to simply and effectively prevent any unintentional adjustment of the adjustable valve mechanism in a fluid flow control device, without compromising the function of the device. The locking assembly generally includes at least one gripping arm for frictionally engaging at least a portion of the adjustable valve mechanism, and an actuating mechanism for controlling the deployment and release of the gripping arm. The locking assembly prevents unintentional adjustments that can adversely affect the pressure settings of the fluid flow control device. In particular, the locking assembly prevents unintentional adjustment, such as may be caused by the presence of a strong external magnetic field. The locking assembly can be easily disengaged, such as through the application or removal of an external mechanical force, to allow a clinician to adjust the pressure settings of the fluid flow control device as necessary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Applicant: Codman & Shurtleff, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel McCusker, Alan J. Dextradeur, Rainuka Gupta, Carleton Bryan Southworth
  • Publication number: 20080016924
    Abstract: A lock assembly for an LPG cylinder which includes a receptacle configured to be threadedly engaged with an orifice of the LPG cylinder and a key configured to engage with the receptacle. The receptacle is provided at an end with a groove in which is fitted an O-ring and at the other end with external threads adapted to engage with internal threads of the orifice of the LPG cylinder. The receptacle has a primary cylindrical recess which has a bottom formed with a secondary cylindrical recess which is eccentric with respect to the primary cylindrical recess. The key has a primary cylindrical portion and a secondary cylindrical portion which is eccentric with respect to the primary cylindrical portion. The primary cylindrical portion of the key is dimensioned to fit into the primary cylindrical recess of the receptacle while the secondaty cylindrical portion is sized to engage with the secondary cylindrical recess of the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Inventor: Dwaine GOODWIN
  • Patent number: 7040342
    Abstract: A fire hydrant security arrangement includes a center post which is retained on the operating nut of the fire hydrant by a central bolt which is threaded into the operating nut. The center post has a pentagonal recess therein which receives an insert, the insert having an inner recess which corresponds in shape to the operating nut. A domed housing is slid over the operating nut and can rotate with respect thereto. A circular groove in the center post receives a projection from a security plug which has been threaded through a threaded bore in the domed housing. The security plug has a socket therein which includes a recess which is off-set slightly from the axis of the plug and is only operable by a security tool having an off-set projection that is receivable in the recess. Without possession of the security tool, it is very difficult to achieve sufficient purchase on the plug to rotate the plug and withdraw the plug sufficiently away from the circular groove in the center post to remove the domed housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Custodian Patent, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Fred J. Stehling, Terry R. McWilliams, Roy Istre, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6802338
    Abstract: A fire hydrant securing arrangement utilizes a magnetic detent to couple an outer body to a center post so that when a wrench with a permanent magnet is mated with the outer body, the magnetic detent connects the outer body to the center post. The center post has an end with a polygonal recess which complements the shape of the hydrant operating nut. The recess is within an insert that has a polygonal periphery engaged by a polygonal inner wall of the center post. The insert is interchangeable with other inserts having recesses of different sizes and configurations so that the securing arrangement is readily acceptable to fire hydrants having different operating nuts of different sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Hydra-Shield Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Roy Istre, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20030217571
    Abstract: A shield for preventing unauthorized manipulation of a fluid valve which can be retrofitted by the end user in place of the valve handle. The shield assembly includes a cylindrical shield member which is held on the valve assembly by a key adapter fastened to the valve stem in place of the valve handle. The key adapter includes a cavity for matingly receiving the valve stem such that rotation of the key adapter is transmitted to the valve stem for operation of the valve. The key adapter is positioned within the cylindrical shield preventing manipulation with a hand tool. The key adapter has a specially configured knob which is matingly engaged by a key for rotation of the key adapter and valve stem to selectively move the valve between its open and closed positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventors: William F. Turnau, Steven J. Tokarz
  • Patent number: 6644075
    Abstract: A flange junction lock has two identical approximately L-shaped parts, each with a circular nut or bolt cover mounted to a support neck forming one end portion of a shaft having a series of holes along the shaft leading to a free end, the holes being of such size as to accommodate a lock such as a padlock, and a shaft receiver attached to the support neck forming a slot to receive the shaft of the other L-shaped part. The circular covers fit over a nut and bolt head or nut on the opposite sides of the joined flanges while a lock, such as a padlock, secures the shafts together. Each cylindrical cover has a partial end cap which allows the threaded portion of a bolt to extend through and beyond the cylindrical cover while blocking insertion of a socket wrench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Danny B. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6634195
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for preventing unauthorized release of the air brakes on a vehicle includes a lockable button for the valve stem for the control valve. The lockable button includes a button body, a coupling member, and a lock assembly having a latch member that selectively inserts into an annular groove on the coupling member. The coupling member is secured to move axially with the axially movable valve stem of the air brake control valve. The latch member extends into the annular groove on the coupling member to position the button body so as to limit the axial movement of the valve stem and thereby prevent the release of the air brakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Neff Co Technologies
    Inventors: Randy M. Lenz, Jeff M. Grote
  • Patent number: 6453707
    Abstract: A locking device comprises a stopper support fixed to the body of a fluid controller, and a stopper nonrotatably mounted on the stopper support and engageable with a channel opening-closing handle for preventing the rotation of the handle. The stopper mounted on the support is movable upward and downward between a locking position wherein the stopper engages with the handle and an unlocking position wherein the stopper is out of engagement with the handle. The stopper support is formed with an opening for fitting the controller body therein and an aperture for fitting the stopper therein. The stopper has a vertical portion slidably fitted in the aperture and formed with a lock attaching bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Ryutaro Nishimura, Shigeru Itoi
  • Patent number: 6394081
    Abstract: The present invention is referred to a safety knob for domestic gas apparatuses of the type that includes a gas valve with a stem, and wherein the stem is pushed against the body of the gas valve to open and regulate the gas flow. The improvements comprising a knob having a body with a back flat section and one or more cavities or projections formed on the back flat section of the knob and a longitudinal orifice also in its back part, which is connected in coincidence with a free end of the stem of the gas valve. The knob includes safety elements for avoiding the axial movement of the knob, the safety elements having a series of projections, wherein the cavities of the knob and the projections of the safety elements are joined or separated one from another, for placing the stem of said valve in a unblocked or blocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Comercial Acros Whirlpool, S.A. DE C.V.
    Inventors: Guillermo-José Aguirre-Esponda, José-Angel Avalos-Barcenas
  • Patent number: 6382001
    Abstract: A locking device for use in connection with an energy controlling apparatus, such as a valve, or regulator, to prevent unauthorized persons from changing the position of a rotatable shaft of the apparatus that controls the amount of energy that flows through the apparatus. The locking device includes a handle used to manually set the position of the shaft. It also includes a gear that is rotatably mounted in the handle and is fixed to the shaft of the apparatus. A first locking mechanism carried by the handle mechanically and selectively couples the handle and the gear through a key access to the lock. A spring-biased ratchet mechanism may be provided to permit rotation of the shaft in one direction only. A personal locking mechanism with only a single key is selectively lockable to the handle so that in the locked position it prevents access to the first locking mechanism. An alternative locking mechanism selectively couples the handle and the gear through a keyless access to the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Neelchine Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Rocky E. Neeley, James N. Lane
  • Patent number: 6324877
    Abstract: A locking device for use in connection with an energy controlling apparatus, such as a valve, or regulator, to prevent unauthorized persons from changing the position of a rotatable shaft of the apparatus that controls the amount of energy that flows through the apparatus. The locking device includes a handle used to manually set the position of the shaft. It also includes a gear that is rotatably mounted in the handle and is fixed to the shaft of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Neelchine Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Rocky E. Neeley
  • Publication number: 20010027666
    Abstract: A locking device for use in connection with an energy controlling apparatus, such as a valve, or regulator, to prevent unauthorized persons from changing the position of a rotatable shaft of the apparatus that controls the amount of energy that flows through the apparatus. The locking device includes a handle used to manually set the position of the shaft. It also includes a gear that is rotatably mounted in the handle and is fixed to the shaft of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Publication date: October 11, 2001
    Inventor: Rocky E. Neeley
  • Publication number: 20010000850
    Abstract: A locking device comprises a stopper support fixed to the body of a fluid controller, and a stopper nonrotatably mounted on the stopper support and engageable with a channel opening-closing handle for preventing the rotation of the handle. The stopper mounted on the support is movable upward and downward between a locking position wherein the stopper engages with the handle and an unlocking position wherein the stopper is out of engagement with the handle. The stopper support is formed with an opening for fitting the controller body therein and an aperture for fitting the stopper therein. The stopper has a vertical portion slidably fitted in the aperture and formed with a lock attaching bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2001
    Publication date: May 10, 2001
    Applicant: FUJIKIN INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Ryutaro Nishimura, Shigeru Itoi
  • Patent number: 6209365
    Abstract: A lockout device to prevent tampering with the manually set position of a valve or regulator or other device having a rotatable shaft for adjusting, for example, the flow of fluid through the device, from a position intially set to some other position. The lockout device is usable with a wide range of standard valves and regulators which have a drive stem and includes a drive gear that engages the drive stem and a key locking device mounted in a generally cylindrical handle of the lockout device and being selectively movable from a first position in which the handle free-wheels relative to the drive stem of the valve so as to prevent unauthorized moving of the rotational position of the valve stem by any person not having a key to an engaging position in which the handle is locked to the drive stem to permit ordinary rotational movement and setting of the valve stem position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Neelchine Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Rocky E. Neeley
  • Patent number: 6205826
    Abstract: A lockout device to prevent tampering with the manually set position of a valve or regulator or other device having a rotatable shaft for adjusting, for example, the flow of fluid through the device, from a position initially set to some other position. The lockout device is usable with a wide range of standard valves and regulators which have a drive stem and includes a drive gear that engages the drive stem and includes a drive gear that engages the drive stem and a key locking device mounted in a generally cylindrical handle of the lockout device and being selectively movable from a first position in which the handle free-wheels relative to the drive stem of the valve so as to prevent unauthorized moving of the rotational position of the valve stem by any person not having a key to an engaging position in which the handle is locked to the drive stem to permit ordinary rotational movement and setting of the valve stem position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Neelchine Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Rocky E. Neeley
  • Patent number: 6189350
    Abstract: A locking device comprises a stopper support fixed to the body of a fluid controller, and a stopper nonrotatably mounted on the stopper support and engageable with a channel opening-closing handle for preventing the rotation of the handle. The stopper mounted on the support is movable upward and downward between a locking position wherein the stopper engages with the handle and an unlocking position wherein the stopper is out of engagement with the handle. The stopper support is formed with an opening for fitting the controller body therein and an aperture for fitting the stopper therein. The stopper has a vertical portion slidably fitted in the aperture and formed with a lock attaching bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Ryutaro Nishimura, Shigeru Itoi
  • Patent number: 6123098
    Abstract: A cover is provided, preferably for securing valves, propellers, door knobs and the like. The cover entails a hinged plate having two sections. Each section contains an indentation which, when the sections are closed, forms an aperture. A pair of arms may depend from each section in alignment with the indentations. When the sections are closed, the arms will form a hollow column in alignment with the aperture. The hollow column will also preferably contain a constriction, preferably formed by a pair of lips extending inwardly from each arm. The sections will also contain sidewalls rising from the sections opposite the hollow column if it is present. A cap is provided which will fit over the sidewalls. A tongue and groove mechanism may be provided to allow the cap to engage the sidewalls and the sections to which they are attached. A plurality of locking apertures may also be provided in the sections and the cap so that the cover may be locked with a padlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventor: Jack P. F. Gremillion, III
  • Patent number: 6089253
    Abstract: A fire hydrant security system for mounting on a standpipe of a fire hydrant wherein the hydrant has a mounting surface with holes therethrough and a bonnet mounted on the mounting surface, the bonnet surrounding a valve operating spindle assembly. The system includes a security gap which is surrounded by a protective collar spaced from the security cap to define an annular gap. An operating tool having a socket which fits into the gap and surrounds the security cap is used to couple the security cap to the valve operating spindle to open the fire hydrant. The protective collar is preferably made of forged ductile iron and is bolted to the fire hydrant by being bolted to a mounting surface on the standpipe or by being secured by bolts to the bonnet. The security cap is thus protected from blows by sledge hammers wielded by vandals and water thieves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Hydra-Shield Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry J. Stehling, Roy Istre
  • Patent number: 6070442
    Abstract: A locking device for use in connection with an energy controlling apparatus, such as a valve, or regulator, to prevent unauthorized persons from changing the position of a rotatable shaft of the apparatus that controls the amount of energy that flows through the apparatus. The locking device includes a handle used to manually set the position of the shaft. It also includes a gear that is rotatably mounted in the handle and is fixed to the shaft of the apparatus. A first locking mechanism carried by the handle mechanically and selectively couples the handle and the gear through a key access to the lock. A spring-biased ratchet mechanism may be provided to permit rotation of the shaft in one direction only. A personal locking mechanism with only a single key is selectively lockable to the handle so that in the locked position it prevents access to the first locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Neelchine Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Rocky E. Neeley, James N. Lane
  • Patent number: 6038893
    Abstract: A locking device for use in connection with an energy controlling apparatus, such as a valve, or regulator, to prevent unauthorized persons from changing the position of a rotatable shaft of the apparatus that controls the amount of energy that flows through the apparatus. The locking device includes a handle used to manually set the position of the shaft. It also includes a gear that is rotatably mounted in the handle and is fixed to the shaft of the apparatus. A first locking mechanism carried by the handle mechanically and selectively couples the handle and the gear through a key access to the lock. A spring-biased ratchet mechanism may be provided to permit rotation of the shaft in one direction only. A personal locking mechanism with only a single key is selectively lockable to the handle so that in the locked position it prevents access to the first locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Neelchine Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Rocky E. Neeley, James N. Lane
  • Patent number: 6000253
    Abstract: A security override system for a locked box comprising a first hasp portion mounted within a box and extending through an outer door of the box; a second hasp portion connected to a bracket; the bracket slideably mounted within the box such that the second hasp portion extends through an opening in the outer door; the bracket being movable between a closed position wherein the second hasp portion mates with the first hasp portion to form a padlock receiving section and an open position wherein the second hasp portion does not mate with the first hasp portion; and wherein the outer door can be opened by moving the bracket into the open position and removing a locked padlock inserted in the padlock receiving section without first unlocking the padlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Bassel Hage Daoud
  • Patent number: 5966970
    Abstract: A lockable valve (7) for a fuel line contains a fuel inlet (2) and fuel outlet (3) which communicates with one another via a passage (6) in which is located a spring-biased piston (15) which is responsive to a pressure change in the fuel line. Associated with the piston (15) is a spring biased plunger (11) which controls a valve (8) to close or restrict the flow of fuel through passage (6). At the other end of the piston (15) is a resetting device (23, 24) which requires an unlocking action before the piston can be extended to withdraw the plunger 11 so as to open the valve. When a fall in pressure is detected by the piston (15), it causes operation of the valve (8) to stop or restrict fuel flow but this operation may only be reversed by the unlocking action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: John O'Keeffe
    Inventor: Brian Francis Mooney
  • Patent number: 5950462
    Abstract: A lockout device to prevent tampering with the manually set position of a valve or regulator or other device having a rotatable shaft for adjusting, for example, the flow of fluid through the device, from a position initially set to some other position. The lockout device is usable with a wide range of standard valves and regulators which have a drive stem and includes a drive gear that engages the drive stem and a key locking device mounted in a generally cylindrical handle of the lockout device and being selectively movable from a first position in which the handle free-wheels relative to the drive stem of the valve so as to prevent unauthorized moving of the rotational position of the valve stem by any person not having a key to an engaging position in which the handle is locked to the drive stem to permit ordinary rotational movement and setting of the valve stem position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Neelchine Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Rocky E. Neeley
  • Patent number: 5941103
    Abstract: The locking device of the present invention comprises a box and a lid which interlock with each other, wherein each of the box and lid has a recess therein for snugly accommodating a faucet assembly. To operate the locking device of the present invention, the box is placed upon and around a faucet assembly, the lid is aligned and interlocked with the box and then the interlocked box and lid are secured to each other by a securing device. The locking device of the present invention when mounted upon a faucet assembly and secured to itself prevents dispensing of fluids from the faucet assembly. The locking device of the present invention is preferably made of a molded, high density, glass-filled nylon plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Stearns
  • Patent number: 5839304
    Abstract: A locking device for a parking brake on a bus having air brakes prevents accidental release of the parking brake when a sensing switch indicates that the bus should not move (e.g., when the driver is absent from the driver's seat, or a passenger-access door is open). The locking device of the invention is affixed to a portion of the bus adjacent a parking brake air valve that has an air valve shaft moving along its axis between a fully extended position, in which the valve is in a brake-applied status, and a frilly retracted position in which the valve is in a brake-released status. The locking device has a locking arm moving between a locked position in which it prohibits the parking brake valve shaft from moving into the fully retracted position and an unlocked position in which it does not affect the motion of the valve shaft. Conventionally, the valve shaft has a knob on the end distal from the valve body, and the locking arm in the locked position, prevents the knob from being pushed in all the way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: William H. Wills
  • Patent number: 5823023
    Abstract: An air regulator valve has a knob which is slidable between a locked position in which it engages teeth on the end of a valve bushing and an unlocked position in which it can be rotated about the valve bushing to rotate the valve shaft. A lock tab is fastened to the end of the shaft and extends through an opening in the knob. The knob is locked in the down position by passing a padlock shackle through an opening in the lock tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: Brady USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven J. Benda
  • Patent number: 5664447
    Abstract: A lockout device to prevent tampering with the manually set position of a valve or regulator or other device having a rotatable shaft for adjusting, for example, the flow of fluid through the device, from a position initially set to some other position. The lockout device is usable with a wide range of standard valves and regulators which have a drive stem and includes a drive gear that engages the drive stem and a key locking device mounted in a generally cylindrical handle of the lockout device and being selectively movable from a first position in which the handle free-wheels relative to the drive stem of the valve so as to prevent unauthorized moving of the rotational position of the valve stem by any person not having a key to an engaging position in which the handle is locked to the drive stem to permit ordinary rotational movement and setting of the valve stem position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: Rocky E. Neeley
  • Patent number: 5596893
    Abstract: A magnetic security device for preventing unauthorized opening of fire hydrant valves includes an inner cylindrical member which is fixed to a nut on the valve stem and an outer rotatable member which is coupled to the inner cylindrical member by a magnetizable element. The magnetizable element is attracted to move from an uncoupled to a coupling mode by a reaching permanent magnet integral with a special operating wrench. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, an intermediate sleeve is provided which is coaxial with a nylon sleeve disposed around the outer surface of the inner cylindrical member. In addition, the inner cylindrical member has a knurled portion which engages the surface of a recess surrounding the valve operating nut so that if the outer operating member is tilted with respect to the inner operating member, the inner operating member binds with the wall of the recess, preventing rotation of the inner operating member and of the valve operating nut attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: Hydra-Shield Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry J. Stehling, Roy Istre, Jr., Sheldon Levine, Horace E. Nichols, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5205312
    Abstract: A fire hydrant locking arrangement which is intended for utilization on a conventional fire hydrant. Moreover, also disclosed is a method of producing a fire hydrant locking arrangement through a heat-meltable locking ring which will inhibit the unauthorized opening of fire hydrants while facilitating the ready servicing of the internal components of the fire hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Assignee: Magna-Loc Valve Corp.
    Inventors: James K. Jerman, Guido Salvato
  • Patent number: 5201201
    Abstract: A waterlock comprises a threaded cap nut (11) which fits tightly over the threaded end of a water pipe (15) or faucet (21). A sleeve (10) fits over the cap nut to prevent access to the nut. The sleeve is free to rotate about the cap nut such that turning the sleeve will not turn the nut. The nut has a flat end with a central hole (16), while the sleeve also has a flat end with a central hole (14). A stem (12) with a flange (17) at its base extends outwardly through the holes. The flange secures the stem to the nut by engaging the inside of the nut. An orthogonal hole (18) in the stem accepts a padlock (20) which prevents the sleeve from being removed from the cap nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1993
    Inventors: William C. Sylvester, Douglas C. Gillette
  • Patent number: 5177988
    Abstract: A locking system for a dead bolt and slam bolt locking of a movable door to a stationary keeper comprises a lock housing defining a cylinder chamber having an opening alignable with a keeper recess in the closed position of the door. A spherical locking bolt is mounted on a piston which is slidably and sealably movable in the cylinder chamber between an inner non-locking position and an outer locking position. The interior of the cylinder chamber is filled with a non-compressible fluid by outward movement of the piston and a normally closed check valve prevents exhaust of such fluid to produce a dead lock conditon. The check valve is alternatively opened by a manual key or by remotely controlled energization of a solenoid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1993
    Inventor: Raymond B. Bushnell
  • Patent number: 5090223
    Abstract: A substantially "U" shaped break-away-bar assembly is constructed to a size and configuration to fit about a portion of an air-inflated vehicle tire. A key actuated lock latching assembly is carried by the break-away-bar assembly and includes an internally threaded connection member utilized to selectively connect the latching assembly to the external threads normally provided on a valve-stem of a tire rim for an air inflated vehicle tire. Operation of the key actuated lock to its locked condition prevents disconnection of the latching assembly from the valve stem. When the break-away-bar assembly is positioned about the vehicle tire and the latching assembly threadably connected to the valve stem rotation of the vehicle tire so that the bar assembly moves beneath the tire, rips the valve stem out of its seat and permits relatively rapid escape of the air from the tire. Slip joints provided for the break-away-bar assembly permit selective adjustment thereof to accommodate different size tires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1992
    Inventor: John Ruffler
  • Patent number: 5074134
    Abstract: A lockable adjustment mechanism (1) for an adjustable component (2), the adjustment mechanism (1) comprising a first rotatable body portion (3) adapted in use to receive and be attached to a threaded elongated adjustment member (4) of the adjustable component (2), a second non-rotatable body portion (5) attachable to the adjustable component (2) and through which the threaded adjustment member in use passes, means (7, 9) for retaining a selected relative position between the first and second body portions, a third body portion (13) rotatably mounted on the first body portion (3) and lock means (17) operable to lock the third body portion (13) to the first body portion (3), rotation of the third body (13) effecting rotation of the first body portion (3) when locked thereto and thus effecting longitudinal movement of the adjustment member (4) of the adjustable component (2), the third body portion (13) being freely rotatable when not locked to the frist body portion (3) so as not to have any effect on the setti
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Assignee: Vickers Systems Limited
    Inventor: Andrew P. Wheadon
  • Patent number: 5072750
    Abstract: Improvements relating to fire hydrant closures are disclosed in which a cap-shaped cover for the outflow port from a fire hydrant, and a tool for locking and unlocking the cap on the hydrant, is provided. The cap includes a septum-like strong plate which is freely rotatable with the cap, but which is fixed against axial movement relative to the cap. Such septum-like plate, including means for mating engagement with corresponding means at the outflow spigot. The plate further includes means constructed to become engaged by the tool; the tool having a grip portion and a mating portion with a corresponding portion provided on the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1991
    Inventors: Ariah Poms, Yaacov Poms
  • Patent number: 5052655
    Abstract: There is described a lock plate assembly for use with a three-position ball valve. The valve has a body, a valve element disposed for rotation within the body, and a handle mounted for rotation upon the body for operation of (off) position, a second (test) position and a third (drain) position. The lock plate assembly includes a lock plate frame defining a first frame stop for the handle in the first position and a second frame stop for the handle in the third position, a slide latch defining a latch stop for the handle in the second position, the latch stop being mounted upon the frame for movement between a first latch position with the latch stop disposed to prevent movement of the handle to the third position, and a second latch position with the latch stop removed from the path of the handle, and a spring or the like for biasing the slide latch toward the first latch position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Company
    Inventor: Rand H. Ackroyd
  • Patent number: 5039062
    Abstract: A tamper-proof valve which includes a valve body fitted with a transverse bore, an entry port and outlet port communicating with the transverse bore and an inner body seat for receiving a tapered inner body having a notch adapted for manipulation in alignment with the entry port and outlet port in open configuration and transverse to the entry port and outlet port, in closed configuration. A plug is provided on the top of the inner body for seating one end of a spring which is slidably encased in a collet. A square key is also slidably disposed in one end of the collet and is adapted to seat in a key seat provided in a top valve assembly which mounts on the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Inventors: Frank R. England, Robert E. Davis
  • Patent number: 5027626
    Abstract: Apparatus for lockably covering a rotatable article, such as a doorknob, fuel can cap, and the like, so as to prevent the grasping of the rotatable article, the invention including an axially extending pin attachable to the rotatable article to extend axially therefrom, and the pin having an outer end that is shaped for grasping, the apparatus of the invention further including a covering cap with a generally cylindrical main wall and which cap is open at one end, and also having a circular front wall with a generally cylindrical wall extending therefrom, the circular wall of the cap having a central aperture therein for freely receiving therethrough the pin so that the cap is freely rotatable about the pin, wherein the rotatable article is substantially received within the confines of the cap and completely surrounded thereby. There is lock means for releasably engaging the outer, shaped end of the pin so as to prevent the outward removal of the shielding cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1991
    Inventor: Paul Appelbaum
  • Patent number: 4984667
    Abstract: A security device is provided for coupling a rotational input force to an output shaft and includes a tubular housing with first and second ends and an internally-threaded bore extending therebetween. An externally-threaded screw member is threadably and reciprocably received in the housing bore and includes first and second ends. A slip clutch assembly is associated with the screw member second end and is adapted for drivingly innerconnecting the screw member and the output shaft. A socket assembly includes a clamp member with hingedly innerconnected jaws or sections which may be opened for placement over the screw member first end and closed for drivingly interconnecting the clamp member and the screw member. A collar nut may be placed over the clamp member for retaining it in its closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1991
    Inventor: Harold M. Tjaden
  • Patent number: 4890506
    Abstract: A hand lever in particular for actuating a butterfly valve or the like in pipelines includes an outer lever portion which encases an inner lever portion and is movable in longitudinal direction thereof relative to the latter. At its forward end, the inner lever portion is fixedly connected with an element, such as an operating shaft which is operatively connected to the valve. The outer lever portion is provided with projections which are engagable in a stationary toothed wheel supported by the shaft. The movement of the outer lever portion for engaging in or disengaging the projection from the toothed wheel is obtained by a control grip which is swingably mounted to the inner lever portion and acts on the outer lever portion via a nose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1990
    Inventor: Fritz Muller
  • Patent number: D344574
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Assignee: Whitey Co.
    Inventors: Cal R. Brown, Jeffrey T. Jeromson, Robert C. Stewart