Air Vent In Liquid Flow Line Patents (Class 137/216)
  • Patent number: 11913199
    Abstract: A flushing station is provided. The flushing station includes a connection piece for a hot water pipe, a connection piece for a cold water pipe, a collecting tank with a siphon for draining the water, pipes at the connection pieces which conduct the water from the connection pieces into the collecting tank at least one sensor per pipe a control unit connected to the sensor, a valve actuatable in the pipes, wherein the control unit is coupled to the actuatable valve and the actuatable valve can be opened by the control unit for flushing the hot or cold water pipe. According to the invention, a flow restrictor and a flow straightener are integrated in each of the pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: Uponor Innovation AB
    Inventor: Andreas Ross
  • Patent number: 11408154
    Abstract: A rough-in assembly for mounting a free-standing faucet on a floor is revealed. The rough-in assembly includes a mounting base, a connection tube set having cold-water and hot-water connection tubes, a fixing plate, and a plurality of nuts. The mounting base consists of a bottom plate fixed on a laminated wood, a tube-fixing portion positioned on the bottom plate and provided with two locking slots, and a plurality of bolts projecting from the bottom plate and inserted through a mounting hole on the floor. The cold-water and hot-water connection tubes are locked in the two locking slots of the tube-fixing portion. The fixing plate allows the bolts of the mounting base to pass therethrough. The nuts are threaded on the bolts for fastening the fixing plate on the floor. Thereby the free-standing faucet is secured on the floor firmly and production cost is dramatically reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: Globe Union Industrial Corp.
    Inventors: Chunhung Li, Yung-Cheng Yu, Jiun-Li Tsai, Chu-Cheng Chu
  • Patent number: 11313111
    Abstract: A faucet that can be equipped with an air gap device, which includes a base, a main body and a control valve, wherein a chamber is formed inside the base, and an air gap device is arranged in the chamber accordingly. The main body is set on the top edge of the base, and the control valve is set inside the main body; a gap is formed between the base and the main body, the gap communicates with the chamber, and the air enters or leaves the chamber through the gap. The overall appearance of the faucet has no visually attractive vents, so the integrity of the appearance can be maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Inventors: Jui-Chien Chen, Jui-Ching Chen
  • Patent number: 11248369
    Abstract: A decorative air gap cap cover is disclosed. An example embodiment can include: a hollow decorative shell configured with upper and lower interior regions relative to an internal ridge, the internal ridge configured to rest on an upper surface of a ring gasket installed around an air gap cap, the air gap cap being captured within the upper and lower interior regions of the hollow decorative shell; a fluid channel within the hollow decorative shell configured with an entry opening above the internal ridge and an exit opening below the internal ridge, the exit opening terminating at an exit port of the hollow decorative shell; and a top vent hole providing an air channel between the upper interior region and the exterior of the hollow decorative shell. An embodiment can also include an auxiliary fluid channel configured with an entry opening below the internal ridge and an exit opening below the internal ridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: UNITED AIR GAP COVERS INC.
    Inventors: Luke J. Williams, Luke M. Williams
  • Patent number: 11105076
    Abstract: A water drain management apparatus used in clinical facility (43) or other facility includes a manifold plumbing fitting (32, 272, 384). The fitting includes a plurality of drain outlet connections for water discharge devices (40, 42, 222, 226, 230, 234). Such water discharge devices may include devices such as autoclaves, sterilizers, cleaners, washers, filters, humidifiers, condensing devices and other devices used in the facility. A plurality of drain fitting openings in the body of the fitting are connectable to respective water discharge devices, and openings that are not utilized are closable with plugs. Some manifold fittings (272, 344, 384, 482) include an air gap opening (288, 360, 392, 530). These configurations provide an air gap that prevents contamination due to back flow of water within the fitting reaching water discharge devices or the body inlet of the manifold fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: VISTA WATER GROUP, LLC
    Inventor: James W. Chandler
  • Patent number: 11105077
    Abstract: A water drain management apparatus used in clinical facility (43) or other facility includes a manifold plumbing fitting (32, 272, 384). The fitting includes a plurality of drain outlet connections for water discharge devices (40, 42, 222, 226, 230, 234). Such water discharge devices may include devices such as autoclaves, sterilizers, cleaners, washers, filters, humidifiers, condensing devices and other devices used in the facility. A plurality of drain fitting openings in the body of the fitting are connectable to respective water discharge devices, and openings that are not utilized are closable with plugs. Some manifold fittings (272, 344, 384, 482) include an air gap opening (288, 360, 392, 530). These configurations provide an air gap that prevents contamination due to back flow of water within the fitting reaching water discharge devices or the body inlet of the manifold fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: Vista Water Group, LLC
    Inventor: James W. Chandler
  • Patent number: 11026365
    Abstract: A distributor device for solids-laden fluids comprises a distributor housing having a housing underside and a housing topside opposite the housing underside which define an interior space that is subdivided into a fluid space into which the inlet port opens and a ventilation space separate therefrom into which the ventilation port opens. A plurality of outlet ports, an inlet port in the distributor housing, a ventilation port disposed in the housing topside of the distributor housing, and a distributor unit are also included. The distributor unit is movable relative to the distributor housing and disposed inside the distributor housing, and connects each of the outlet ports in fluid communication with the fluid space and with the ventilation space in alternating succession. Relative movement of the distributor unit connects an outlet port of the plurality of outlet ports alternately with the fluid space and the ventilation space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: VOGELSANG GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Paul Krampe, Birgit Brinkmann, Lars Mester, Daniel Behn
  • Patent number: 10822779
    Abstract: A decorative air gap cap cover is disclosed. An example embodiment can include: a hollow decorative shell configured with upper and lower interior regions relative to an internal ridge, the internal ridge configured to rest on an upper surface of a ring gasket installed around an air gap cap, the air gap cap being captured within the upper and lower interior regions of the hollow decorative shell; a fluid channel within the hollow decorative shell configured with an entry opening above the internal ridge and an exit opening below the internal ridge, the exit opening terminating at an exit port of the hollow decorative shell; a top vent hole providing an air channel between the upper interior region and the exterior of the hollow decorative shell; and a bottom gasket encircling the air gap cap. An embodiment can also include an auxiliary fluid channel configured with an entry opening below the internal ridge and an exit opening below the internal ridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Inventors: Luke J. Williams, Luke M. Williams
  • Patent number: 10610907
    Abstract: An anti-clogging liquid dispersion system and method for an air conditioner or heat pump is disclosed. A tank holds an anti-clogging liquid. A pump or valve connected with the tank periodically supplies the liquid to a condensate drain pan or the outlet of an existing drain line located exteriorly of a structure. One or more sensors are provided to detect moisture, flooding and/or lack of condensate flow and, when so detected, a control circuit causes the liquid to be supplied to the condensate drain pan to prevent flooding of a condensate drain pan or to clear a clogged drain line of an air handler of the air conditioner or heat pump. An additional dose of the liquid can also be supplied at any time when an unacceptable amount of condensate moisture and/or a clogged drain line has been detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: Mainstream Engineering Corporation
    Inventors: Robert P. Scaringe, Andrew Carpenter, Dana L. Elliott, Luke L. Falls, Janelle M. Messmer, Mark W. Fitz
  • Patent number: 10518547
    Abstract: A liquid discharger includes a head including nozzles to discharge liquid from the nozzles, a detachable first container attached to the liquid discharger to accommodate the liquid, a second container connected to the head to accommodate the liquid to be supplied to the head, a supply channel to connect the first container and the second container, an irreversible pump connected to the second container, and a controller to control the irreversible pump to pressurize and decompress the second container to reciprocally move the liquid between the first detachable container and the second container via the supply channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: RICOH COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventors: Keitaroh Sakai, Nobuyuki Akaishi, Shigeru Morinaga
  • Patent number: 10413133
    Abstract: A backflow prevention assembly for global use with dispensers requiring a variety of backflow prevention devices based on regulatory standards is provided. The assembly includes a housing comprising first and second housing members and including quick connector attachments extending therefrom. The quick connector attachments are non-threaded members configured to be attached to the various measurement and types of connections found throughout the world. A cover is provided for venting purposes to reduce the backflow siphoning forces or pressure, which causes the backflow of a product chemistry. Furthermore, a backflow prevention device is configured to be fluidly coupled to the housing of the present invention to provide for one way flow and the prevention of backflow of a product chemistry into a water supply. The flow control may be selected based on the regulatory standards of the location used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: Ecolab USA Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Max Schultz, Ryan Jacob Urban, Brian Philip Carlson, Jay Anderson, Jeffrey Alan Blansit
  • Patent number: 10301808
    Abstract: A bidet spray includes a fastening device for fastening the bidet spray to an associated water closet (WC) bowl, wherein the fastening device includes two openings. Also provided are a valve and a nozzle, which is connected to the valve by a pipe. The pipe extends forwardly between the two openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Carsten Willers Consulting GmbH
    Inventor: Carsten Willers
  • Patent number: 9885140
    Abstract: A method of operating a laundry treating appliance having a foreign object trap located in a bottom of a wash basket underlying a clothes mover, the bottom of the wash basket having an upwardly extending wall, with at least the wash basket rotatable about an axis of rotation, the method including radially expelling liquid through an outlet opening of the foreign object trap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Whirlpool Coporation
    Inventors: Dean L. Tietz, George L. Turner
  • Patent number: 9765505
    Abstract: An air-gap device integrated within a faucet base of a faucet fixture for use with a dishwashing device is disposable on a counter surface and includes: a base forming flow channels adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal at the surface; a fixed block wall extending from the base, the fixed block wall separating a first pair of flow channels from a second pair of flow channels and providing a fluid-tight seal for the first pair of the flow channels; and a removable block cover selectively attachable to the fixed block wall to fluidicly couple the second pair of flow channels, the block cover further forming an air-gap channel in fluidic communication with ambient. Modular design permits removal of the faucet and valve portion to access the air-gap device for maintenance, without the need to disconnect any fluid supply or waste lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: Symmons Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Kirk Mellits, Jeff Peltier, Hai Le, Steve Ferreira
  • Patent number: 9750389
    Abstract: A water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular a domestic dishwasher, includes a first retaining device which is arranged on an outer wall and which is provided to hold a pipe on the outer wall when the domestic appliance is in operation. The outer wall has an aperture through which the hose is guided, with the first retaining device being arranged above the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: BSH Hausgeräte GmbH
    Inventors: Johannes Büsing, Helmut Jerg, Michael Georg Rosenbauer
  • Patent number: 9745210
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for directing waste water discharged from the air gap port of an air gap device such as an air gap reverse osmosis (RO) faucet or a dishwasher air gap, whereby the discharged water is caught and collected in a cup or container surrounding the air gap and channeled by a conduit of sufficient distance so that the water may then discharge into the sink basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Inventor: Jon-Andrew Vincent Sigona
  • Patent number: 9630856
    Abstract: A water treatment assembly generally in the form of a filter faucet generally of the type mounted on a sink or similar countertop surface. The water treatment assembly generally comprises a mounted valve assembly, an inline water filter, and a water spout. The inline water filter is configured intermediate the mounted valve assembly and the spout. The inline water filter has a watertight shell comprising a water inflow port and a water outflow port that allow the filter to be used as a readily replaceable and disposable modular filter cartridge. The filter inflow port allows for releasable fluid engagement with the valve assembly. The filter outflow port comprises a fitting for receiving the spout. Water flow through the filter and spout is controlled by the valve assembly. The combined assembly permits the new use of standard components improved in a cost effective manner to form a reliable filter faucet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Inventors: Grzegorz Loniewski, Scott Anthony Nightlinger, Agnieszka Monika Loniewska, Piotr Loniewski
  • Patent number: 9499961
    Abstract: An air-gap device integrated within a faucet base of a faucet fixture for use with a dishwashing device is disposable on a counter surface and includes: a base forming flow channels adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal at the surface; a fixed block wall extending from the base, the fixed block wall separating a first pair of flow channels from a second pair of flow channels and providing a fluid-tight seal for the first pair of the flow channels; and a removable block cover selectively attachable to the fixed block wall to fluidicly couple the second pair of flow channels, the block cover further forming an air-gap channel in fluidic communication with ambient. Modular design permits removal of the faucet and valve portion to access the air-gap device for maintenance, without the need to disconnect any fluid supply or waste lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: Symmons Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Kirk Mellits, Jeff Peltier, Hai Le, Steve Ferreira
  • Patent number: 9416523
    Abstract: A flushometer toilet is used in a bathroom that has access to only a small diameter water supply pipe that usually would be useful only with a gravity toilet. A water storage apparatus (60) is provided that includes large diameter pipes (of 1.5 inches diameter) lying close to the flushometer valve (44) so at the beginning of a flushing, a large volume of water is available at a pressure of at least 30 psi.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Inventor: Norman Usher
  • Patent number: 9409134
    Abstract: Air gap eductor with backflow deflector deflects backflowing liquid, preventing backflowing liquid from contaminating water supply by contacting water jet nozzle above air gap. Backflow deflector plate blocks 40-80% of rim area at opening at upper end of eductor discharge tube, leaving 60-20% of rim area unblocked. With bifurcated asymmetry of from 40% to 100%, blocked and unblocked rim areas deflect backflowing liquid laterally, away from water jet nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: Diversey, Inc.
    Inventors: Gareth Jones, Ian Sansom, Marcel van der Kraan, Seth Haanstra, Richard Wenborn
  • Patent number: 9375688
    Abstract: This invention relates to a mixing apparatus assembly with air gap separation, comprising a first duct (22), having an inlet mouth (235) and a diameter D, connected to an air gap valve (223) downstream of which a venturi mixing device (4) is connected, the air gap valve (223) comprising a nozzle (224) having an outlet (225) spaced apart by a separation distance (226) from a collecting duct (227), the first duct (22) and the air gap valve (223) forming a linear channel upstream of the outlet (225) of the nozzle (224), going from the inlet mouth (235) of the first duct (22) to the outlet (225) of the nozzle (224) and having a length L, the assembly being characterized in that the length L being not shorter than D and not longer than 20D, i.e. D?L?20D, and in that said linear channel is provided with a flow straightener (228). This invention further relates to an apparatus for mixing a liquid comprising such assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Assignee: SEKO S.P.A.
    Inventors: Gabriele Petrangeli, Stefano Livoti
  • Patent number: 9359749
    Abstract: An air-gap device integrated within a faucet base of a faucet fixture for use with a dishwashing device is disposable on a counter surface and includes: a base forming flow channels adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal at the surface; a fixed block wall extending from the base, the fixed block wall separating a first pair of flow channels from a second pair of flow channels and providing a fluid-tight seal for the first pair of the flow channels; and a removable block cover selectively attachable to the fixed block wall to fluidicly couple the second pair of flow channels, the block cover further forming an air-gap channel in fluidic communication with ambient. Modular design permits removal of the faucet and valve portion to access the air-gap device for maintenance, without the need to disconnect any fluid supply or waste lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: Symmons Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Kirk Mellits, Jeff Peltier, Hai Le, Steve Ferreira
  • Patent number: 9198543
    Abstract: A soap dispenser may include a soap providing unit, an exhausting tube and a fitting unit. The fitting unit is disposed in the soap providing unit, and when an outlet pipe of the exhausting tube is disposed in a second receiving space of the soap providing unit, a fitting hole of fitting unit is used to cover the outlet pipe and protruding ribs of the fitting unit are used to secure the outer wall of the outlet pipe, and the soap providing unit can be securely positioned on the outlet pipe. The fitting unit is made by soft plastic materials so when the protruding ribs are used to secure the outer wall of the outlet pipe, the friction during the assembly process of the exhausting tube can be avoided to further reduce the chance of replacing the exhausting tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: Rin Shing Metal Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: His-Chin Hsieh
  • Patent number: 9133608
    Abstract: A plumbing device (e.g. trap seal primer) provides a minimum air gap to a fluid source. There is an inlet member for coupling to a fluid source, an outlet member for receiving fluid from the inlet member and discharging fluid from the plumbing device and a support bracket connecting the inlet member and outlet member in spaced relation to maintain a minimum unobstructed air gap therebetween. A nozzle may direct fluid into the outlet member. The nozzle may be recessed in a nozzle discharge barrel. The inlet member may form a recess about a rim of the nozzle discharge barrel. The inlet member may be sized to substantially shield an outlet member opening from debris. The plumbing device may be coupled to a potable water source, such as a normally closed fluid supply line, to draw fluid in when the line is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Inventor: Jay Bradley Milne
  • Patent number: 8997789
    Abstract: An apparatus for preventing backflow and contamination, and detecting by-pass leaks in a flow control arrangement is disclosed. The apparatus includes a vent line connecting a sweep gas source and a vent. Constant process-inert gas flows from the source through the vent line into the vent. The vent line is connected with the flow control arrangement. Any leakage in the flow control arrangement is channeled to the vent line and swept into the vent along with the sweep gas. As a result, pressure in the flow control arrangement cannot build up and leakage backflow is prevented. A flow switch may be disposed on the vent line for detecting leakage. The sweep gas flow rate is controlled at a constant level that is inadequate to actuate the flow switch and keeps the flow switch ready to actuate by any superimposed leakage. The flow switch detects a leakage when it actuates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Malema Engineering Corporation
    Inventor: Peter M. Pozniak
  • Patent number: 8733386
    Abstract: A drinking water faucet capable of discharging waste water includes a main body, a valve base, a water control unit, a connecting tube and a securing nut. A receiving space that is through and downward is formed inside the main body, and a trough room and an air hole are formed at front portion of the receiving space, upper portion of which has a water outlet tube. A water outlet hole and water inlet tube are located at upper and lower portions of the valve base respectively, and a water control space and discharging portion are formed at front portion of the valve base. The reflux of waste water can be prevented to contaminate the filtering components by using the combination of the air hole, the discharging portion, a waste water import tube and a waste water export tube, so the drinking water becomes more clean and safe to drink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Grand Advanced Technologies Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Tung-Hsin Sun
  • Publication number: 20140048147
    Abstract: A plumbing device (e.g. trap seal primer) provides a minimum air gap to a fluid source. There is an inlet member for coupling to a fluid source, an outlet member for receiving fluid from the inlet member and discharging fluid from the plumbing device and a support bracket connecting the inlet member and outlet member in spaced relation to maintain a minimum unobstructed air gap therebetween. A nozzle may direct fluid into the outlet member. The nozzle may be recessed in a nozzle discharge barrel. The inlet member may form a recess about a rim of the nozzle discharge barrel. The inlet member may be sized to substantially shield an outlet member opening from debris. The plumbing device may be coupled to a potable water source, such as a normally closed fluid supply line, to draw fluid in when the line is opened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Inventor: Jay Bradley Milne
  • Publication number: 20130233398
    Abstract: An air induction device is provided for mounting to a downspout to induce the flow of air in the downspout. The air induction device comprises a tubular member that is sealingly fitted through the downspout such that it provides fluid communication between the atmosphere and the interior of the downspout. The air induction device is preferably mounted on an upwardly facing surface of the downspout and at a location where the downspout is extending angularly downward or at a bend in the downspout, thereby orienting the tubular member at an upwardly extending oblique angle relative to the downspout.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Inventor: David Clark
  • Patent number: 8528595
    Abstract: Distributor (5) with at least two discharge channels (10,16) which are positioned at the same distance from a central axis (13), parallel to this axis, a supply channel (11) and a distributor member (12,17,18) which is rotatable about the axis and has a supply end (12?) positioned along the axis and a discharge end (12?) which is set radially apart therefrom and can be brought by rotation of the distributor member selectively into fluid connection with the respective discharge channels, characterized in that the liquid supply channel extends along the central axis and along the discharge channels, the distributor member comprising a U-shaped connection channel which is placed at the supply end rotatably in the extension of the supply channel and can be placed at the discharge end in fluid connection with the respective discharge channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Bravilor Holding B.V.
    Inventors: Maximiliaan Noordanus, Eric Michael Cornelis Maria van Eijnatten
  • Patent number: 8528596
    Abstract: Distributor (5) with at least two discharge channels (10,16) and feed channel (11) arranged at an equal distance from and parallel to a central shaft and a distributor body (12,17,18) arranged rotatably around the shaft with a feed end (12?) disposed along the shaft and a discharge end (12?) disposed at a radial distance therefrom, which, by way of rotation of the distributor body can be selectively and fluidly connected with the respective discharge channels, wherein the fluid feed channel extends along the central shaft and along the discharge channels, wherein the distributor body comprises a U-shaped connecting channel (12) and can be arranged together with the feed end rotatably in the line of projection of the feed channel in fluid connection with the respective discharge channels, characterized in that the U-shaped connecting channel is provided, in close proximity to an upper side, with a breather duct (32) (FIG.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Bravilor Holding B.V.
    Inventors: Maximiliaan Noordanus, Eric Michaël Cornelis Maria Van Eijnatten
  • Patent number: 8267109
    Abstract: The present invention provides a water vacuum break assembly for use in a washing machine and a method of assembling the water vacuum break assembly. The water vacuum break assembly includes a housing defining at least one water inlet opening, a water cavity fluidly connected with the at least one water inlet opening, and a control system cavity positioned proximate the water cavity, the control system cavity configured for selectively retaining one of at least two differently configured control systems configured for sensing and/or regulating a temperature of water in the water cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Group Dekko, Inc.
    Inventor: Terry L. Hygema
  • Patent number: 8176930
    Abstract: A water supply apparatus (1) for an automatic ice maker comprises: a water supply tank (10); an air pump (70); an air supply pipe (60); and a water supply channel, disposed between the water supply tank and an ice tray (80), for supplying water to the ice tray by using the air pump which feeds air into the water supply tank and through a pressure of the air sending the water outside of the water supply tank. The water supply channel includes a pressure adjusting chamber (40) for adjusting a pressure in the water supply channel and a water supply pipe (50) for causing the water to flow into the ice tray. The water supply pipe includes first and second water supply pipe parts (51), (52) that are attachable and detachable. The air supply pipe includes first and second air supply pipe parts (61), (62) that are attachable and detachable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shinya Takagi, Yoshikazu Inoue
  • Patent number: 8118053
    Abstract: A backflow prevention device is to be installed between various equipment drain lines and a drain cover or drain pipe. The backflow prevention device provides an air gap operable to prevent backflow of sewer waste into the drain lines. The device includes a drainage hub and a tubing mount attached to the drainage hub. The drainage hub defines a liquid flow conduit throw which liquid discharged from the drain lines can flow and can be connected to the drain. The tubing mount supports the drain lines in such a way that the drain line effluent is positioned to be in fluid connectivity with the upper opening of the liquid flow conduit at a vertically displaced position from the drainage hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Thomas Charles Koran
  • Patent number: 8100873
    Abstract: A reduced pressure treatment system includes a porous pad positioned at a tissue site and a canister having a collection chamber, an inlet, and an outlet. The inlet is fluidly connected to the porous pad. A reduced pressure source is fluidly connected to the outlet of the canister to such that fluid from the tissue site may be drawn into the collection chamber. A hydrophobic filter is positioned adjacent the outlet to prevent liquid from exiting the collection chamber through the outlet. A baffle is positioned within the canister to create a tortuous path between the inlet and the outlet to prevent premature blocking of the hydrophobic filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Paul Jaeb, Randall Paul Kelch, Christopher Brian Locke, James Luckemeyer, Terrie Lea McDaniel, Bruce Phillips, Timothy Mark Robinson, Abhay Jaswal, Kevin Higley, Tyler Simmons
  • Patent number: 7673648
    Abstract: An air gap apparatus comprising a deodorizer agent positioned within the apparatus. The deodorizer agent may be any combination of a liquid, solid, granules or paste placed on or in a vent cap, an upper housing or upper housing cap of the air gap or receptacle thereon, a plugged inlet or inlet port extension extending from the air gap body, an under-mount nut or spacer installed on the air gap body, or an impregnation of or coating on any of the components thereof. With such an air gap installed for use, odors associated with bacterial growth within the air gap and discharged air passing through and out of the air gap are removed, disguised, offset or otherwise reduced or eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Paul L. Traylor
  • Publication number: 20090301566
    Abstract: A backflow prevention device is to be installed between various equipment drain lines and a drain cover or drain pipe. The backflow prevention device provides an air gap operable to prevent backflow of sewer waste into the drain lines. The device includes a drainage hub and a tubing mount attached to the drainage hub. The drainage hub defines a liquid flow conduit throw which liquid discharged from the drain lines can flow and can be connected to the drain. The tubing mount supports the drain lines in such a way that the drain line effluent is positioned to be in fluid connectivity with the upper opening of the liquid flow conduit at a vertically displaced position from the drainage hub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas Charles KORAN
  • Publication number: 20090151793
    Abstract: An innovative method and apparatus for disposing of waste fluids, especially human body fluids such as are generated during surgery, into a hospital's sanitary sewer system is provided. A conduit system is adapted to transport waste fluid from a receptacle to a sanitary sewer using an eductor having a venturi device. The conduit system includes first and second conduits. First and second connectors are used to easily connect the first conduit to the second conduit. The second connector includes a flap that acts as a check valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: Allegiance Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas L. MICHAELS, Kenneth Horton, JR., Shannon C. Ingram
  • Patent number: 7543598
    Abstract: A vacuum break assembly including a housing and a sensor assembly. The housing has a pocket therein, the pocket having a wall. The sensor assembly includes a spring beam and a thermal sensor held against the wall of the pocket by force from the spring beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Group Dekko, Inc.
    Inventor: Terry L. Hygema
  • Publication number: 20090000670
    Abstract: A transmission having a shaft driven by a prime mover such as an engine or motor is provided. The transmission includes a first stationary element for supporting the shaft for rotation, and a torque transmitting device connectable to the shaft and rotatable about an axis. The torque transmitting device is actuated by a hydraulic fluid. A first passage is connected to the torque transmitting device and is in communication with the hydraulic fluid. The first passage extends radially inward from the torque transmitting device. A vent passage is located within the first stationary element and is in communication with the first passage. Rotation of the torque transmitting device about the axis separates entrained air from the fluid and urges air radially inward through the first passage and into the vent passage, thereby removing air from the hydraulic fluid and circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventors: Drew A. Crafton, Charles F. Long, Randall S. Conn
  • Patent number: 7465399
    Abstract: In a multi-ducted sink fitting assembly, a waste water connection to an assembly comprises a reverse osmosis waste water upright duct associated with the fitting; a dish water upright duct associated with the fitting to flow unclean dish water upwardly; and a discharge duct extending downwardly and associated with the fitting to receive flow from both the reverse osmosis waste water duct and the dish water duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Herbert W. Hoeptner, III
  • Publication number: 20080245718
    Abstract: A faucet assembly includes a base having first and second ends, a sidewall extending between the ends, a mounting bore extending from the first end, a permeate water spout port extending from the second end, and a valve assembly bore extending from the sidewall and connecting the mounting bore and the permeate water spout port. A fastener is located within the mounting bore and extends out of the base from the mounting bore for securing the faucet assembly to a mounting surface, and a valve member is positioned within the valve assembly bore and movable between closed and opened positions. The valve member allows tool access from the permeate water spout port, through the valve member, and to the fastener in the mounting bore when the valve member is moved to a predetermined position. This arrangement allows top-mounting of the faucet assembly using a toggle bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Craig Schmitt, Mark D. Henss
  • Patent number: 7387502
    Abstract: A pumping apparatus for pumping a liquid from a source to a target including a motor, a first pump driven by the motor, a second pump driven by the motor and a separator in fluid communication with the first and second pump for separating a liquid received from a source into a gaseous component and a liquid component. The separator further diverts the gaseous component to the first pump and the liquid component to the second pump, wherein the first pump pumps the gaseous component back to the source and the second pump pumps the liquid component to a target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Fluid Metering, Inc.
    Inventors: David Rawlings, Harry E. Pinkerton, III
  • Patent number: 7357147
    Abstract: A modular air gap device adapted for selective insertion into an associated faucet body and comprises a base, an inlet nipple defining an inlet passage and an outlet nipple defining an outlet passage. The inlet and outlet nipples project outwardly from the base in a first direction. An gap structure is connected to the base and projects outwardly therefrom in a second direction opposite the inlet and outlet nipples. The base and air gap structure are adapted for receipt within an air gap chamber of a faucet body. The air gap structure defines a flow path having a first end in direct fluid communication with the inlet passage of the inlet nipple and a second end spaced from the outlet passage of the outlet nipple so that an air gap is defined between the second end of the flow path and the outlet passage. A faucet including the air gap device defines a vent for venting the air gap chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: The Meyer Company
    Inventors: Raymond P. Kawolics, Jeffery J. Labinski, Michael A. Kolar, Michael H. Meyer
  • Patent number: 7353838
    Abstract: A faucet assembly includes a base having first and second ends, a sidewall extending between the ends, a mounting bore extending from the first end, a permeate water spout port extending from the second end, and a valve assembly bore extending from the sidewall and connecting the mounting bore and the permeate water spout port. A fastener is located within the mounting bore and extends out of the base from the mounting bore for securing the faucet assembly to a mounting surface, and a valve member is positioned within the valve assembly bore and movable between closed and opened positions. The valve member allows tool access from the permeate water spout port, through the valve member, and to the fastener in the mounting bore when the valve member is moved to a predetermined position. This arrangement allows top-mounting of the faucet assembly using a toggle bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Watts Regulator Co.
    Inventors: Craig Schmitt, Mark D. Henss
  • Patent number: 7290557
    Abstract: An air gap fitting and method for fluid flow coupling an appliance waste water discharge outlet to a sewer stand pipe inlet. A bell-shaped hood has a side wall skirt tapering downwardly divergently to a skirt lower edge outlet dimensioned to telescopically receive the open upper inlet end of a sewer stand pipe until it abuts a 360° internal slip-stop skirt shoulder. A single hood air vent exterior opening extends axially of the skirt approximately two inches. An interior central drain tube extends downwardly and terminates flush with the hood air vent opening lower edge. A tube air vent gap slot is oriented 180° out of alignment with the hood exterior air vent. A hexagonal protrusion on the hood upper end receives a wrench to rotate or hold the fitting, and accommodates forming a ½? or ¾? I.D. female threaded hood inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Inventor: Dennis E. Bowman
  • Patent number: 7213608
    Abstract: A wasted water draining valve for a drinking water fountain includes a valve body having a bottom having a first side formed with a wasted water inlet channel and a second side formed with a wasted water outlet channel connected to the inlet channel. Thus, the wasted water inlet channel of the valve body is inclined relative to the wasted water outlet channel, so that the wasted water inlet channel of the valve body is directly connected to the wasted water outlet channel without having to provide a U-shaped tube to connect the wasted water inlet channel and the wasted water outlet channel of the valve body, thereby decreasing costs of fabrication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Inventors: Jui-Chien Chen, Jui-Ching Chen
  • Patent number: 7059341
    Abstract: A discharge duct for discharging pump water from a supply reservoir defined by a first minimum water level and a supply reservoir floor to an operatively higher located delivery reservoir defined by a second minimum water level and the delivery reservoir floor, the discharge duct being defined by an inlet at one end of the discharge duct in communication with the outlet orifice of a conventional pumping device fitted at the supply reservoir; an outlet at the other end of the discharge duct, in the operative configuration of the discharge duct, being below the second minimum water level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Inventors: Srivastava Ramesh Kumar, Joshi Shashikant Gangadhar, Kshirsagar Jagadish Trimbakrao, Gunaseelan Sathianathan
  • Patent number: 7047998
    Abstract: A gravity flow drain extension is adapted for attachment to an exit opening of a condensation drain line. The drain extension includes an extension line for receiving and transporting water. The open connecting end of the extension line is attached to the exit opening of the condensation drain line, such that water exiting the condensation drain line enters the extension line. The extension line defines at least one discharge opening downstream of its connecting end for dispensing water at a location away from the exit opening of the condensation drain line. A backflow preventer upstream of the at least one discharge opening prevents backflow of water into the condensation drain line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventor: David McKee
  • Patent number: 7017600
    Abstract: A faucet includes a base and a body. The body may be coupled and decoupled to the base with a bayonet fitting which is configured to prevent a forward rotation of the base relative to the body and to permit backward rotation and disconnection of the body from the base without the use of any tools. The faucet may have an internal chamber that houses a water sensitive device such as an electronics package and that is sealed from within and without by a system of seals located between the body and the base, between the base and a support surface, such as a countertop or a sink, and between individual components of the faucet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Clack Corporation
    Inventor: Daniel A. Klein
  • Patent number: 7011106
    Abstract: A modular air gap device adapted for selective insertion into an associated faucet body and comprises a base, an inlet nipple defining an inlet passage and an outlet nipple defining an outlet passage. The inlet and outlet nipples project outwardly from the base in a first direction. An gap structure is connected to the base and projects outwardly therefrom in a second direction opposite the inlet and outlet nipples. The base and air gap structure are adapted for receipt within an air gap chamber of a faucet body. The air gap structure defines a flow path having a first end in direct fluid communication with the inlet passage of the inlet nipple and a second end spaced from the outlet passage of the outlet nipple so that an air gap is defined between the second end of the flow path and the outlet passage. A faucet including the air gap device defines a vent for venting the air gap chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: The Meyer Company
    Inventors: Raymond P. Kawolics, Jeffery J. Labinski, Michael A. Kolar, Michael H. Meyer