U.S. patent application number 12/264512 was filed with the patent office on 2009-03-12 for emergency gas and electricity shutoff apparatus and control system.
Invention is credited to James C. McGill.
Application Number | 20090065068 12/264512 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46322140 |
Filed Date | 2009-03-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090065068 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McGill; James C. |
March 12, 2009 |
EMERGENCY GAS AND ELECTRICITY SHUTOFF APPARATUS AND CONTROL
SYSTEM
Abstract
A gas meter installation including gas supply plumbing and point
of use plumbing will have a gas meter therebetween. A valve can be
installed with the gas meter for shutting off the flow of gas to
the point of use. This valve is preferably a gate valve mounted
with the a gas meter, and can be retrofitted into existing
installations, or installed with the new plumbing installation. The
valve can be shut off by remote activation for example due to a
seismic sensor causing a controller to send a signal to activate
the valve. The control can also interact with electricity shut off
apparatus, automatic meter reading apparatus and point of use
security systems.
Inventors: |
McGill; James C.; (Union
City, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WENDEROTH, LIND & PONACK, L.L.P.
2033 K STREET N. W., SUITE 800
WASHINGTON
DC
20006-1021
US
|
Family ID: |
46322140 |
Appl. No.: |
12/264512 |
Filed: |
November 4, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11155606 |
Jun 20, 2005 |
7458387 |
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12264512 |
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10730050 |
Dec 9, 2003 |
6938637 |
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11155606 |
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09449484 |
Nov 29, 1999 |
6705340 |
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10730050 |
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08965014 |
Nov 5, 1997 |
6085772 |
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09449484 |
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09027197 |
Feb 20, 1998 |
5992439 |
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08965014 |
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60038795 |
Feb 21, 1997 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
137/315.06 ;
251/129.01; 29/890.124 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 137/7761 20150401;
F16K 3/0209 20130101; F16K 17/36 20130101; Y10T 137/0413 20150401;
Y10T 137/0777 20150401; Y10T 29/49412 20150115; Y10T 137/5997
20150401 |
Class at
Publication: |
137/315.06 ;
29/890.124; 251/129.01 |
International
Class: |
F16K 43/00 20060101
F16K043/00; B21K 1/20 20060101 B21K001/20; F16K 31/02 20060101
F16K031/02 |
Claims
1. A gas meter and valve installation comprising: gas supply
plumbing for supplying gas to a point of use; point of use plumbing
for receiving gas from said gas supply plumbing; a gas meter having
a gas inlet connected to said gas supply plumbing and a gas outlet
connected to said point of use plumbing for metering the quantity
of gas used at said point of use such that a gas supply passage is
established through said gas supply plumbing, said gas meter and
said point of use plumbing; and a gas flow shutoff valve positioned
along said gas supply passage outside of said gas meter comprising
a valve member movable between an open position in which said gas
supply passage is open, allowing gas to flow through said gas meter
and into said point of use plumbing, and a closed position in which
said gas supply passage is substantially closed so that
substantially no gas is allowed to flow into said point of use
plumbing.
2-4. (canceled)
5. A method of installing a gas meter with a shut-off valve with
gas supply plumbing for supplying gas to a point of use and point
of use plumbing for receiving gas from the gas supply plumbing,
comprising: connecting a gas inlet of a gas meter to the gas supply
plumbing; connecting a gas outlet of the gas meter to the point of
use plumbing, whereby the gas meter can meter the quantity of gas
used at the point of use, such that a gas supply passage is
established through the gas supply plumbing, the gas meter and the
point of use plumbing; and positioning a gas flow shutoff valve
along the gas supply passage outside of the gas meter, the meter
comprising a valve member movable between an open position in which
the gas supply passage is open, allowing gas to flow through the
gas meter and into the point of use plumbing, and a closed position
in which the gas supply passage is substantially closed so that
substantially no gas is allowed to flow into the point of use
plumbing.
6-8. (canceled)
9. A gas flow control system, comprising: a gas passage including
gas supply plumbing for supplying gas to a point of use and point
of use plumbing for receiving gas from said gas supply plumbing; a
gas flow shutoff valve positioned between said gas supply plumbing
and said point of use plumbing, said gas flow shutoff valve being
capable of closing in response to a gas flow shutoff signal; a
controller remote from said gas flow shutoff valve capable of
generating the gas flow shutoff signal; and a communication link
between said controller and said gas flow shutoff valve for sending
the gas flow shutoff signal to said gas flow shutoff valve.
10-27. (canceled)
28. A method of retrofitting a gas shutoff valve with a gas meter
installation between gas supply plumbing and point of use plumbing,
comprising: disconnecting a gas meter from a pipe that connects to
a service tee of the point of use plumbing; removing the pipe that
connects to the service tee from the service tee; and connecting a
gas flow shutoff valve and a shorter pipe than the pipe that
connected to the service tee between the gas meter and the service
tee.
29-30. (canceled)
31. A method of fitting a gas shutoff valve with a gas meter
installation between gas supply plumbing and point of use plumbing,
comprising: providing a gas flow shutoff valve having a union nut
on one of an inlet side and an outlet side thereof and a thread
portion for connection to a union nut on the other of the inlet
side and the outlet side thereof, connecting the union nut to a gas
meter fitting having corresponding threads thereon on one of an
inlet side and an outlet side of the gas meter; connecting the
thread portion of the gas flow shutoff valve to one of the gas
supply plumbing and the point of use plumbing; and connecting the
other of inlet side and the outlet side of the gas meter to the
other of the gas supply plumbing and the point of use plumbing.
32. (canceled)
33. A valve, comprising: a housing having a gas inlet, a gas outlet
and a gas passage therebetween; a gate mounted in said housing so
as to be movable in a direction across the gas passage between open
and closed positions, said gate including a first portion having an
opening therein that is positioned across said gas passage in said
open position and a second portion that is positioned across said
gas passage in said closed position; an upstream seat mounted in
said housing upstream of said gate, said upstream seat surrounding
said gas passage and contacting said gate so as to form a seal
between said housing and said gate on an upstream side of said
gate; and a downstream seat mounted in said housing downstream of
said gate, said downstream seat surrounding said gas passage and
contacting said gate so as to form a seal between said housing and
said gate on a downstream side of said gate.
34-35. (canceled)
36. A fitting adapter for adapting a valve to fit with a standard
union nut, said fitting adapter comprising an adapter body having a
first end formed with external threads that are sized and adapted
to engage with internal threads of the standard union nut and a
second end that has internal threads that are sized and adapted to
engage with external threads of a valve inlet or outlet connection
of the valve.
37. (canceled)
38. A fitting adapter for adapting a valve to fit with a standard
union nut, said fitting adapter comprising an adapter body having a
first end formed with external threads that are sized and adapted
to engage with internal threads of the standard union nut and a
second end that has external threads that are sized and adapted to
engage with internal threads of a valve inlet or outlet connection
of the valve.
39. (canceled)
40. A valve comprising: a housing having a gas inlet, a gas outlet
and a gas passage therebetween; a gate mounted in said housing so
as to be movable in a direction across the gas passage between open
and closed positions, said gate including a first portion having an
opening therein that is positioned across said gas passage in said
open position and a second portion that is positioned across said
gas passage in said closed position; a spring positioned so as to
bias said gate toward said closed position; and a release pin
movable between one position in which said release pin prevents
said spring from moving said gate toward said closed position and
another position in which said release pin releases said spring and
said gate so that said gate moves to said closed position under the
biasing force of said spring.
41-61. (canceled)
62. A valve comprising: a housing having a gas inlet, a gas outlet
and a gas passage therebetween; a gate mounted in said housing so
as to be movable in a direction across the gas passage between open
and closed positions, said gate including a first portion having an
opening therein that is positioned across said gas passage in said
open position and a second portion that is positioned across said
gas passage in said closed position; a magnet mounted with said
gate; and a solenoid actuator for moving said magnet so that said
gate is movable between said open and closed positions.
63-68. (canceled)
69. An electricity shut-off arrangement, comprising: an electric
meter box mounting an electric meter; a circuit breaker on said
electric meter box for shutting off electricity; a pull chain on
said circuit breaker; and a shut-off device connected with said
pull chain for actuating said circuit breaker by pulling said pull
chain, said shut-off device having a communication link for
communicating with a remote controller for activating said shut-off
device.
70. (canceled)
71. An electricity shut-off arrangement, comprising: a
spring-loaded rotatable arm having a detention portion thereon; a
pull chain of a circuit breaker connected to another portion of
said spring loaded arm; and a release member movable between a
detention position in which said release member engages said
detention portion of said spring-loaded rotatable arm to detain
said spring-loaded rotatable arm in a spring-loaded position and a
release position in which said release member releases said
detention portion so that said spring-loaded rotatable arm can
rotate and pull said pull chain.
72-75. (canceled)
76. An electric interface device for placement between an electric
meter and a meter box, said electric interface device comprising: a
pair of interface plugs for connection to receptacles of a meter
box; a pair of interface receptacles for connection to a pair of
electric meter plugs, wherein said pair of interface plugs are
electrically connected with said pair of interface receptacles,
respectively; and an electricity shut-off for shutting off the
electrical connection between at least one of said pair of
interface plugs with a respective one of said pair of interface
receptacles.
77-80. (canceled)
81. An electric interface shut-off arrangement comprising: a meter
box having a pair of receptacles; an electric meter having a pair
of electric meter plugs; an interface between said meter box and
said electric meter comprising: a pair of interface plugs connected
to said receptacles of said meter box; a pair of interface
receptacles connected to said pair of electric meter plugs, wherein
said pair of interface plugs are electrically connected with said
pair of interface receptacles, respectively; and an electricity
shut-off for shutting off the electrical connection between at
least one of said pair of interface plugs with a respective one of
said pair of interface receptacles.
82-85. (canceled)
86. An electric interface arrangement, comprising: a meter box; an
electric meter for connection to said meter box; an interface
disposed between said meter box and said electric meter, said
interface comprising an electric power supply for supplying
electric power therefrom.
Description
[0001] This is a divisional application of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 11/155,606, filed Jun. 20, 2005, which is a divisional
application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/730,050, now
U.S. Pat. No. 6,938,637 issued Sep. 6, 2005, which is a divisional
application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/449,484, filed
Nov. 29, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,705,340, issued Mar. 16, 2004,
which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser.
Nos. 08/965,014, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,085,772 issued Jul. 11, 2000
and Ser. No. 09/027,197, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,992,439 issued Nov.
30, 1999, which claims priority from provisional application No.
60/038,795, filed Feb. 21, 1997.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to emergency gas and
electricity shutoff equipment and control systems therefor. In
particular, the present invention relates to the shutoff of the
flow of natural gas to a home or other point of use for reasons of
safety during emergencies such as seismic events, fires, etc. The
present invention further relates to apparatus and systems for
shutting off the electricity at a home or other point of use under
similar conditions.
[0004] 2. State of the Prior Art
[0005] Various devices have been known in art for shutting off gas
systems in the event of a seismic disturbance or the like. For
example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,311,171 to Nobi requires a first ball to
close a fuel line and at least a second ball, wherein the second
ball is mounted within the casing so that a tremor would cause the
second ball to dislodge the first ball from its pedestal. The ball
for closing the fuel line is required to be mounted in a concave
cup supported by a plurality of ball bearings, and includes a
concave member as well as a resilient means such as a spring for
biasing the cup against the concave member.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 4,565,208 to Ritchie requires the inclusion of
a track and at least a ball riding in the track, and in addition
requires the inclusion of "an obstruction" which causes the ball to
leave the track when a seismic disturbance causes the ball to
contact the obstruction with sufficient energy.
[0007] It further requires the obstruction to include an incline
surface that extends over the track and has a height which
decreases across the width of the track.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 4,475,565 to Keller et al. discloses a
magnetically actuable shock responsive unit. This unit includes a
valve mechanism for shutting off the flow in a fluid line and is
operable upon shock induced horizontal displacement of a weight
relative to a support to actuate the valve. An electromagnet is
provided for providing a separate actuation of the weight. Movement
of the weight from its support to the side of the housing causes
the weight to engage a movable tube that releases a mechanism that
closes the valve.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 4,903,720 to McGill, one inventor of the
present invention, discloses a safety shutoff device usable in any
position. An inertia ball engages a first member so as to move the
first member from a first position to a second position in response
to vibrations or shocks imparted to the housing.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 5,119,841 discloses another safety shutoff
apparatus using an inertia ball that normally rests on an indented
surface. A lever is pivotally mounted with a permanent magnet
mounted beneath the free end of the lever. When a shock or
vibration causes the inertia ball to jump onto the lever and roll
toward its free end, the inertia ball is attracted to the permanent
magnet so as to cause the lever to be pivoted downwardly.
[0011] Further seismic safety valves are described in U.S. Pat.
Nos. 5,409,031, 4,903,720 and 5,119,841.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The objects of the present invention are to generally
improve the state of the prior art with respect to emergency
shutoff, not only of the flow of gas to a point of use
installation, but also of the supply of electricity.
[0013] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a gas
meter and valve installation has gas supply plumbing for supplying
gas to a point of use and point of use plumbing receiving gas from
the gas supply plumbing. A gas meter has a gas inlet connected to
the gas supply plumbing and a gas outlet connected to the point of
use plumbing for metering the quantity of gas used at the point of
use so that a gas supply passage is established through the gas
supply plumbing, the gas meter and the point of use plumbing. A gas
flow shutoff valve is positioned along the gas supply passage
outside of the gas meter and has a valve member that is movable
between an open position in which the gas supply passage is open,
allowing for gas to flow through the gas meter and into the point
of use plumbing, and a closed position in which the gas supply
passage is substantially closed so that substantially no gas is
allowed to flow into the point of use plumbing.
[0014] The gas flow shutoff valve preferably has a housing having a
valve gas inlet and a valve gas outlet. One of the inlet and the
outlet is connected to the gas meter and the other is connected to
one of the gas supply plumbing and the point of use plumbing. A
spacer having a spacer inlet and outlet is connected between the
other of the gas supply plumbing and the point of use plumbing.
[0015] Preferably, the point of use plumbing includes a service tee
having an inlet, an outlet and a service opening having a plug
therein.
[0016] The gas inlet and the gas outlet comprise male inlet and
outlet threads. The point of use plumbing or the gas supply
plumbing has a union nut for connection with one of the male inlet
and outlet threads. The gas flow shutoff valve is connected between
the other of the point of use plumbing and the gas supply plumbing
and the other of the male inlet and the male outlet threads.
[0017] The gas flow shutoff valve has a nut thereon for connection
with the other of the male inlet and the male outlet threads and a
total height that is equal to the height of the union nut.
[0018] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a gas
flow control system includes a gas passage including gas supply
plumbing and point of use plumbing for receiving gas from the gas
supply plumbing. A gas flow shutoff valve is positioned between the
gas supply plumbing and the point of use plumbing, and is capable
of closing in response to a gas flow shutoff signal. A controller
remote from the gas flow shutoff valve is capable of generating the
gas flow shutoff signal, and a communication link between the
controller and the gas flow shutoff valve sends the gas flow
shutoff signal to the gas flow shutoff valve.
[0019] The controller may comprise a seismic sensor for generating
the gas flow shutoff signal, and/or a security system control,
and/or a break away gas pipe portion positioned between the gas
flow shutoff valve and the point of use.
[0020] A fuel cell can be used to generate electric power from gas
flowing through the gas passage. For example, the fuel cell could
provide electricity for an automatic meter reading device connected
with a gas meter. The automatic meter reading device may have a
communication link with the controller to send signals thereto
representing gas usage.
[0021] The gas flow control system can also have an electric
interface device installed at an electric meter box in
communication by a communication link with the controller.
[0022] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there
is provided an improved valve for shutting off a flow of gas. In
this valve a housing has a gas inlet, a gas outlet and a gas
passage therebetween. A gate mounted in the housing is movable in a
direction across the gas passage between open and closed positions.
The gate has a first portion having an opening therein positioned
across the gas passage in the open position and a second portion
positioned across the gas passage in the closed position. An
upstream seat is mounted in the housing upstream of the gate, the
upstream seat surrounding the gas passage and contacting the gate
so as to form a seal between the housing and the gate on the
upstream side of the gate. A downstream seat is mounted in the
housing downstream of the gate. The downstream seat surrounds the
gas passage and contacts the gate so as to form a seal between the
housing and the gate on the downstream side of the gate.
[0023] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a
gate valve for shutting off a supply of gas is spring biased toward
its closed position. A release pin is movable between one position
in which the release pin prevents the spring from moving the gate
toward the closed position and another position in which the
release pin releases the spring and the gate so that the gate moves
to the closed position under the biasing force of the spring.
[0024] A reset member is interconnected with a gate for resetting
the gate from the closed position to the open position. The reset
member extends from a point outside of the housing to the gate and
has an end received in an elongate slot in the gate. The slot has a
stop member and an end thereof so that when the gate is in the
closed position, the reset member can be pulled from outside of the
housing so that the end of the reset member engages the stop member
and pulls the gate from the closed position. The reset member is
sealed from the outside by a dynamic seal in the housing. It
further has a knob thereon positioned outside of the housing for
manipulating the reset member, the knob having a static seal
thereon for engagement with the housing.
[0025] The housing has a chamber adjacent to the gas passage, the
chamber having a gate end through which the gate is movable and a
spring end. The spring is compressed between the spring end and the
gate in the open position. The gate includes a spring receiver on
an end thereof in the chamber and receiving the spring therein. The
release pin, in the open position of the gate, extends into the
chamber and engages the spring receiver.
[0026] The release pin is moveably supported by a bushing and has
an engagement end for engaging a member fixed with respect to the
gate, a shaft portion slidable in the bushing and a stop for
engaging the bushing in order to limit movement of the release pin.
A connector in the release pin has an axial space therein. An
actuator is provided for actuating the release pin, and includes a
link member that extends into the axial space and is movable
therein. When the actuator is actuated to move the gate to the open
position, the link member axially moves a predetermined distance
without engaging the connector of the release pin before engaging
the connector of the release pin. The actuator includes a solenoid
and a solenoid pin having a link member connected thereto. The
solenoid pin is spring biased toward the release pin.
[0027] A status indicator may be provided on the exterior of the
housing to indicate the open or closed status of the gate.
[0028] The member on the gate and the release pin may have
respective complimentary engagement surfaces angled with respect to
the direction of movement of the gate in order to make it easier
for the gate to be actuated.
[0029] The release pin may also comprise a roller for engagement
with the member fixed with respect to the gate. Further, the
release pin may comprise a solenoid pin movably supported in the
solenoid actuator by a plurality of rollers mounted on the solenoid
pin.
[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, a
valve for shutting off a flow of gas has a magnet mounted with a
gate of the valve. A solenoid actuator is provided for moving the
magnet so that the gate is moveable between the open and close
positions.
[0031] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, an
electricity shut-off arrangement includes an electric meter box
mounting an electric meter, a circuit breaker on the electric meter
box for shutting off electricity and a pull chain on the circuit
breaker. A shutoff device is connected with the pull chain for
actuating the circuit breaker by pulling the pull chain. This
device has a communication link for communicating with a remote
controller for activating the shut-off device. Preferably a door is
provided so as to be able to close over the shut-off device.
[0032] The shut-off device may comprise a spring-loaded rotatable
arm for pulling the pull chain. This arm has a detention portion
thereon for engagement with a release member. The release member is
movable between a detention position in which the release member
engages the detention portion of a spring-loaded rotatable arm to
detain the spring-loaded rotatable arm in a spring-loaded position
and a release position in which the release member releases the
detention portion so that the spring-loaded rotatable arm can
rotate and pull the pull chain.
[0033] In one preferred embodiment, the release member comprises a
ball member. The detention portion preferably comprises an angled
surface on the spring-loaded rotatable arm that biases the ball
member away from it. A release pin is moveably mounted between a
first position that prevents the ball member from moving, and a
second position in which the ball member can move away from the
detention portion. A solenoid actuator is provided for moving the
release pin. Preferably a solenoid pin of the solenoid actuator
will move and accelerate over a predetermined distance before
actually engaging and moving the release pin.
[0034] According to another preferred feature of this aspect of the
invention, the release pin has a second ball member that is
rollably positioned thereagainst at a position opposite to the
first ball member.
[0035] Alternatively, the release member may comprise a solenoid
pin that is spring-biased into engagement with the detention
portion of the spring-loaded rotatable arm. The solenoid pin has a
solenoid actuator for moving the pin against the spring-biased in
order to release the spring-loaded rotatable arm.
[0036] According to a further aspect of the present invention, an
electric interface device is provided for placement between an
electric meter and a meter box. The device has a pair of interface
plugs for connection to receptacles of the meter box, a pair of
interface receptacles for connection to a pair of electric meter
plugs and an electricity shut-off for shutting off electrical
connection between one of the interface plugs and the respective
one of the interface receptacles. The interface plugs and interface
receptacles are ordinarily electrically connected to each other.
The electricity shut-off preferably comprises a connector that
connects one of the plugs with one of the receptacles of the
interface, and a solenoid actuator for moving the connector to
break the electrical connection. The interface further includes a
housing having a first interface flange for connection with a meter
box flange and a second interface flange for connection with a
meter flange. The interface may further include a communication
link linking the electricity shut-off with a remote controller and
an external power connection for supplying power to outside of the
interface device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0037] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a gas meter and valve
interface connection;
[0038] FIG. 2 is a view similar to FIG. 1, but showing the gas
meter together with gas supply and gas point of use plumbing;
[0039] FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 2 showing additional system
components;
[0040] FIG. 3A is a view similar to FIG. 3 illustrating an
alternative arrangement;
[0041] FIG. 3B illustrates yet another alternative arrangement
according to the present invention;
[0042] FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 3 showing additional and
alternative system components;
[0043] FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 3 showing additional and
alternative system components and arrangements;
[0044] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a gas shut-off valve in
an open position;
[0045] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the valve of FIG. 6 in a
closed position;
[0046] FIG. 7A is an exploded view of a fitting adaptor;
[0047] FIG. 7B is an exploded view of an alternative of a fitting
adaptor;
[0048] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a complete valve
arrangement according to the valve of FIGS. 6 and 7;
[0049] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the valve of FIG. 8 as
seen from above;
[0050] FIG. 10 is a view similar to FIG. 8, but showing the valve
in a closed position;
[0051] FIG. 11 is a view similar to FIG. 9, but showing the valve
in a closed position;
[0052] FIG. 12 is a view similar to FIG. 10 but illustrating
process of resetting the valve;
[0053] FIG. 13 shows the process of resetting the valve of FIG. 12
in a view similar to that of FIG. 11;
[0054] FIG. 14 shows a detail of one embodiment of engagement
surfaces between a release pin and a gate;
[0055] FIG. 15 illustrates the features of FIG. 14 after release of
the gate;
[0056] FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view of a gate similar to that
illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7;
[0057] FIG. 16 is a view similar to FIG. 14 showing an alternative
release member;
[0058] FIG. 17 shows the alternative release member of FIG. 16 in a
view similar to that of FIG. 15;
[0059] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the gas shut-off valve according to the present invention;
[0060] FIG. 19 shows the valve of FIG. 18 in a state of activation
toward closing the valve;
[0061] FIG. 20 is a schematic view of an electricity shut-off
arrangement according to the present invention;
[0062] FIG. 21 is a partly cross-sectional view of the arrangement
of FIG. 20;
[0063] FIG. 22 is similar to FIG. 21 but illustrates the device in
a closed position;
[0064] FIG. 23 is a partly cross-sectional view of a first
embodiment of an electricity shut-off device according to the
present invention;
[0065] FIG. 24 is a partly cross-sectional view of the device of
FIG. 23 shown in an activated state;
[0066] FIG. 25 shows an alternative to the embodiment of FIG.
23;
[0067] FIG. 26 illustrates the activated state of the alternative
of FIG. 25;
[0068] FIG. 27 is a partly cross-sectional view of a second
embodiment of an electricity shut-off device according to the
present invention;
[0069] FIG. 28 is a partly cross-sectional view of the electricity
shut-off device of FIG. 27 shown in an activated state;
[0070] FIG. 29 is a front view of an electric meter box;
[0071] FIG. 30 is a partly cross-sectional exploded view of an
electrical interface for use with electric gas meter and a metered
box according to the present invention; and
[0072] FIG. 31 is a partly cross-sectional view of the assembled
electric meter, interface device and meter box of FIG. 30.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0073] In the following discussion, the same reference numbers
indicate the same or similar features of the present invention in
the various embodiments.
[0074] A first feature of the present invention is discussed with
reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, and concerns an interface arrangement
for adapting a gas flow valve to a gas meter. This concept is
related to that set forth in co-Applicant's prior U.S. application
Ser. No. 09/027,197, incorporated herein by reference. U.S.
application Ser. No. 08/965,014 is also incorporated herein by
reference.
[0075] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a valve 10 for shutting off
gas flow. The valve has an external thread 14 that matches an inlet
thread 12 of a standard gas meter 11 and a union nut 13 designed to
be connected to the inlet thread 12 of the meter 11. A spacer 17
has an external thread 17a that matches an outlet thread 15 of the
gas meter 11 and a union nut 16 attached to the spacer 17 that is
designed to connect to the outlet thread 15 of the gas meter
11.
[0076] FIG. 2 shows these features connected together and in
relation to gas supply plumbing and point of use plumbing. The
valve 10 and spacer 17 are connected to the meter 11 with the union
nuts 13 and 16 being screwed onto the external threads 12 and 15,
respectively. When the valve 10 and the spacer 17 are installed on
the gas meter 11, the distance from the gas meter 11 to the top of
the thread 14, and the distance from the gas meter 11 to the top of
the thread 17a, are the same.
[0077] The gas supply plumbing includes a shut-off valve 18, a gas
supply pipe 19 and a union nut fitting 20. The point of use
plumbing includes a union nut fitting 17b for connection to the
external thread 17a, a pipe 21 and a standard service tee 22
connected to the pipe 21. The right-hand side of the service tee 22
connects to the point of use, such as a home or other point of use
of the natural gas supply. The union nut fitting 20 is connected to
the external thread 14 and union nut fitting 17b is connected to
the external thread 17a. Note that the valve 10 and the spacer 17
could be exchanged so that the spacer is on the inlet side and the
valve is connected to the outlet side of the gas meter 11.
[0078] With the arrangement according to FIGS. 1 and 2, a standard
gas meter such as gas meter 11, having external threads 12 and 15
thereon, can be modified to incorporate a means of shutting off the
flow of gas there through. By the term "standard gas meter" is
meant those gas meters known in the industry that are in common use
and have reached a level of standardization clear to those of skill
in this art.
[0079] With the arrangement of FIGS. 1 and 2, any standard gas
meter can be modified to incorporate a way shutting off the flow of
gas without having to build a valve into the meter itself. This
also consequently allows an easy way of maintaining the valve
itself, separately from the meter, because they are separate
components the valve can be operated or replaced without having to
change the meter itself.
[0080] Turning now to FIG. 3, a modification of the arrangement of
FIGS. 1 and 2 may be seen. A communication module 10a for
communication by radio frequency (RF) or through a wire 24 can
communicate with a controller module 25 and can be mounted at a
remote location. In FIG. 3, the controller module 25 is shown as
mounted to a structure 26 such as a home or other point of use.
[0081] However, it can be mounted at any location suitable for
communication with the communication module 10a.
[0082] Power for operating the valve 10 can be supplied from a
source that is either located at the valve communication module 10a
or at a remote location.
[0083] The control module 25 may include a seismic sensor designed
to have a time delay that will activate the valve 10 after it
receives a given acceleration over a specified period of time. A
valve shut-off signal may then be sent from the controller module
25 through the wire 24 or by RF to the communication module 10a and
thus to the valve 10 for activation thereof.
[0084] A security system 30 may be incorporated with the valve
control system. For example, the power for operating the system
could be supplied through a wire connection 27 from the security
system control 30. The seismic sensor could also be located at the
security system 30, rather than at the control module 25. In other
words, the control module 25 could be replaced by a security system
30 in general, this security system 30 thus essentially
incorporating the control module 25 for the valve activation
system. Such a security system 30 could further activate the valve
10 after receiving a signal from other sensors, such as a CO
sensor, a gas sensor, a smoke sensor, a fire alarm, sprinklers, a
panic button, etc.
[0085] According to the further feature in FIG. 3, the spacer 17
includes a "break-a-way" feature 17c. This break-a-way feature is
designed to be the weakest part of the gas system so that it will
break before other areas of the pipe. The break-a-way feature 17c
can be connected to the communication module 10a for providing a
valve shut-off signal to the valve 10 for activation thereof.
[0086] One advantage of having the valve 10 activated by a remote
sensor such as a control module 25, a security system 30 or a
break-a-way feature 17c, is that the valve will then not be
required by industry standards to be braced to the building or the
ground, because the seismic sensor is not part of the valve
itself.
[0087] Power for activating the valve 10 can be self-contained in
the valve 10, or it can be supplied from a remote location such as
the controller module 25 or the security system 30. Also, a
capacitor could be located at the valve 10 for activation of the
valve 10 with a fail-safe circuit.
[0088] The arrangement of FIG. 3 shows the valve 10 with the
modified spacer 17 as part of an overall system. The system has
several options in terms of communication with a controlled sensor.
A sensor could be mounted on an outside wall of the structure such
as structure 26, and it could also be mounted with a controller
mounted inside of the structure. Communication between the sensor
and the valve can be with a wire or through RF. This allows for the
valve to be easily maintained and replaced, and allows for the
valve to be replaced without having to break into the gas pipe.
Maintenance, further, is independent of the gas meter, because the
method of replacing the valve allows for use of a bypass tee 22.
The bypass tee 22 allows for a quick change without having to stop
the flow of gas to the structure 26. Thus a homeowner does not have
to be at home for installation or service of the valve, and pilot
lights inside of the structure 26 do not have to be relit.
[0089] The control module 25 will contain the seismic sensor, for
example, designed to have a time delay to activate the valve after
receiving a given acceleration lasting over a specified period of
time.
[0090] FIG. 3a shows another alternative arrangement according to
the present invention. In this arrangement, the valve 10 is mounted
on the outlet of the gas meter 11 without a spacer being installed
at the inlet of the meter. This method of installation is useful
for new installations. That is, where the valve does not need to be
retrofitted onto an existing installation, a corresponding spacer
may not need to be supplied for insertion of the valve 10 into the
plumbing, because the installation of the plumbing itself can make
up for the additional pipe provided by the spacer.
[0091] The service tee 22 here includes a pipe plug 22a and a
connecting pipe 22b connecting to the valve 10. An advantage here
is to provide an easy way of removing the valve for service. The
service tee 22 can be used to supply gas to the structure 26 for
installation, removal, replacement or maintenance of the valve 10.
Such a method also allows for installation and maintenance without
having to remove the gas meter 11 from an existing position, for
example, connected at union nut 20.
[0092] When retrofitting a valve 10 to form an arrangement as shown
in FIG. 3a, an existing installation may have a simple straight
pipe from service tee 22 to the gas meter 11. A method of replacing
this pipe with the valve 10 would then involve first removing the
gas meter 11, or rotating it away from the pipe extending from the
service tee. The union nut and the longer pipe 22b are then
disconnected from the service tee 22, and a shorter pipe 22b is
inserted between the service tee 22 and the union nut. The valve 10
is then mounted between a union nut 17b and the gas meter 11.
[0093] In a new installation, the valve 10 is installed by
attaching the union nut 16 to the gas meter 11 and the union nut
17b to the valve 10 without having to remove any previously
installed components. Methods of maintaining the valve correspond
to performing the above steps in reverse.
[0094] FIG. 3b is similar to FIG. 3a, but simply shows a valve 10b
instead of a valve 10 shown in FIG. 3a. It is noted that the valve
10 shown in FIG. 3a has been illustrated so far so as to correspond
to a gate type valve to be described later. However, as
demonstrated by FIG. 3B, the installation and maintenance methods
according to the present invention can be performed with any type
of valve.
[0095] FIG. 4 shows an alternative and expanded arrangement of a
shut-off valve system for the gas meter 11. The valve 10
communicates through the communication module 10a through wire 24
or by radio frequency with a control module 25. The control module
25 can also communicate with the security system controller 30
through wire 29 or by radio frequency. Electric power to operate
the system, in this case, can be provided by a fuel cell 31 that is
designed to replace the spacer 17 of FIG. 3. The fuel cell 31
generates its own electric power from gas flowing through the gas
pipes 19. Electric power coming from the fuel cell 31 powers the
valve 10 and the control module 25 through wires 28. It further can
provide power to operate an automatic meter reading (AMR) device 33
through a wire 32.
[0096] The AMR device 33 communicates through a wire 33a or by
radio frequency with the control module 25. The control module 25
can thus provide total gas usage over a given period of time, and
can transmit this information to a remote location. The control
module 25, furthermore, is designed and operated to compare the
flow rate per unit of time (volume per unit time received from the
AMR device 33) corresponding to before an earthquake is detected by
its seismic sensor to that measured after the earthquake. If the
flow rate increases after the earthquake, the control module 25
will assume that there is a gas leak in the system, and will
activate the valve 10 to the off position.
[0097] The control module 25 can have input, or be designed and
operate so as to "learn", the flow rate of appliances that have
constant flow rates (i.e. appliances used, for example, in the
structure 26 and connected to the point of use plumbing).
Accordingly, the control module 25 can determine whether the flow
rate after an earthquake has increased by an amount which
corresponds to a constant flow rate of one of the appliances. The
control module 25 will then assume that the appliance has been
turned on, and assume that this does not represent a leak, so that
a signal will not be sent to turn the valve 10 to the off
position.
[0098] A further feature of the control module 25 is the ability to
detect flow problems, such as excess flow rates, that exceed a
predetermined set point.
[0099] A pressure sensor 34 may be incorporated as part of the
valve 10. The pressure sensor 34 is designed to detect pressure in
the gas system and to activate the valve 10 if the pressure becomes
abnormal. The pressure information detected by the pressures sensor
34 is sent to the valve 10 and/or the control module 25 through a
wire 35, through the communication module 10a and the wire 24 or
the radio frequency to the control module 25.
[0100] The use of a fuel cell in the system of FIG. 4 allows for a
more reliable source of power than a system that depends upon the
use of batteries. The fuel cell, further, can be used to also
operate the AMR device 33 and the various communication links used
in the system.
[0101] In accordance with the invention of FIG. 4, the control
module 25 forms a device which can employ the information from the
AMR device 33, compare the flow rate per unit of time before an
earthquake occurs with that after an earthquake, and make decisions
as to whether or not to shut-off the flow of gas based upon this
information. Specifically, the controller 25 is a device which
determines that if a flow of gas exceeds a predetermined flow rate,
the valve 10 will be shut-off.
[0102] A further advantage of the arrangement of FIG. 4 is the use
of the pressure sensor 34. The pressure sensor 34 can activate the
valve when pressure changes indicate an excess flow or an abnormal
condition. Such excess flow or abnormal condition will be assumed
to indicate a leak in the system and the valve will then be
shut-off. An advantage of using the pressure sensor 34 is that the
gas will be shut off when it is most likely that there is a gas
leak, as opposed to simply shutting off the gas when the ground
moves. In other words, the pressure sensor 34 can be used in
conjunction with seismic sensors for more precise determination of
whether there is a need to shut-off the gas, that is, whether there
is a break in the system requiring such shut-off.
[0103] FIG. 5 illustrates a further arrangement of the system in
general accord with the system as discussed with respect to FIGS.
1-4. In this case, however, the system incorporates an electric
interface device 34 (detailed below) installed at an electric meter
box 35c and connected to the electric meter box 35c by a security
band 35b. The interface device 34 receives and is connected to an
electric meter 35 and is secured to the electric meter 35 by a
security band 35a. Interface device 34 thus interfaces between the
electric meter box 35c and the electric meter 35, where the
electric meter 35 is ordinarily directly connected to the electric
meter box 35c.
[0104] The interface device 34 includes a built in shut-off feature
which can be activated by a signal from the control module 25
through a power/communication cable 36. Alternatively, a radio
frequency communication link or a battery backup could be provided
with the electric interface device 34 for outside
communication.
[0105] The electric interface device 34 is designed to provide
electrical power to operate the overall system illustrated in FIG.
5, including, but not limited to, the control module 25, the valve
10 and the AMR device 33. Power from the interface device 34 can be
stepped down inside of the interface device 34 to a low voltage. As
previously, the control module 25 can communicate with the security
system 30 through a wire 29 or by radio frequency. Of course, the
control module 25 can also have outside communication through any
appropriate means.
[0106] Accordingly, the electric interface device 34 provides a
power source for operation of the system. Advantageously, it can
also incorporate a built in way of shutting off electricity.
Details of an example of an electric interface device are described
below.
[0107] FIG. 6 is a detailed view in cross section of a preferred
valve, such as valve 10, for shutting off the flow of gas. A
housing 40 has an inlet 41 and an exit 42. The inlet has an
external thread 41a that matches the threads of a union nut fitting
of a gas supply pipe. The exit 42 has a standard meter nut or a
union nut 42a having internal threads 42b that will attach to a
standard gas meter. The union nut 42a is held in place by a keeper
42c.
[0108] The housing 40 includes a gate 43 as a valve member for
shutting off the flow of gas between the inlet 41 and the exit 42.
The gate 43 has an open section 43a that allows gas to flow there
through to the outlet 42. It further includes a solid section 43b
which closes the gas passage between the inlet 41 and the outlet or
exit 42 when the gate is slid toward the right.
[0109] In a preferred feature according to the present invention,
the gate 43 has a bottom seat 44 and a top seat 45 that prevent gas
from leaking past the fluid path or gas passage as the gas passes
from the inlet 41 to the outlet 42. Both the bottom seat 44 and the
top seat 45 extend annularly around the gas passage in contact with
the gate 43, forming seals therewith. They are provided in
respective spaces or groups provided in the housing 40. The seats
can comprise O-rings of suitable seal material given the pressure
and wear conditions.
[0110] Note that the external thread 41a and the meter union nut
42a could be eliminated and replaced by internal and external pipe
threads in the inlet 41 and the outlet 42 of the valve 40.
[0111] FIG. 7 shows the valve of FIG. 6 in a closed position, but
with one modification. In the solid section 43b, an optional
orifice 43a1 may be provided to allow a predetermined small amount
of gas to pass there through from the inlet 41 to the outlet 42.
The orifice is sized so as to allow a sufficient amount of gas to
pass through the valve to maintain downstream pilot lights lit,
allowing for a reset of the valve and a resumption of operation of
the system without having to relight the pilot lights. However,
this orifice is not required, and is entirely optional.
[0112] With the valve as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the gate 43
slides between the two seals 44 and 45, being movable from the open
to the closed position. When the gate 43 is in the open position,
the seal is protected from contamination affecting the sealing
surface. There is little effect on the flow of gas in terms of
pressure drop due to the seals.
[0113] In FIG. 7a reference 10b represents any appropriate shut-off
valve for gas. This FIG. illustrates a way of adapting any such
valve 10b for adaptation in use with a method of installation of
the present invention.
[0114] Specifically, a fitting adapter 41c has an external thread
41a1 and can be connected with the standard meter nut 17b. Internal
threads 41d on the fitting adapter 41c match threads of a standard
pipe 41b. The pipe thread 41b can be formed as part of the valve
10b, where a standard nipple can be used. A standard meter fitting
42d having internal threads 42f is shown together with a union nut
41b1. The standard meter fitting 42d is connected to the valve 10b
by connection 41e which includes standard external pipe threads on
the valve 10b that match the standard internal threads 42f of the
standard meter fitting 42d. The connection 41e can be a standard
pipe fitting, or could be formed as part as the valve 10b.
[0115] Accordingly, any such valve 10b having pipe threads 41b can
have a standard meter fitting 42d connected to one side and a
fitting adapter 41c connected to the other side for connection to a
standard union nut and a standard gas meter. Accordingly, any
appropriate valve can be modified to be employed as a shut-off
valve interface for a gas meter in accordance with the present
invention.
[0116] FIG. 7b shows an alternative arrangement having a fitting
adapter similar to that shown in FIG. 7a. In FIG. 7b, the fitting
adapter 41g has an external thread 41a2 that can be connected with
a standard meter nut 17b. External threads 41f on the fitting
adapter 41g are designed to match a standard pipe thread 41b. The
pipe thread 41b can be formed as part of the valve 10b, or a
standard nipple can be used. As seen in the Figure, the valve 10b
has an internal thread 10c. Accordingly, this arrangement allows
for the advantage of a relatively close coupling in connecting a
valve. This will reduce the amount of space that is needed to
install the valve.
[0117] FIG. 7b further shows a meter nut fitting 16c. Meter nut
fitting 16c is essentially the same as a standard union nut
fitting, except that it has external threads 16b. Threads 16b are
adapted to connect with internal threads 10d of the valve 10b as
illustrated. Flange 16a is designed to hold the meter nut 41b1 in
place. This meter nut fitting 16c also allows a relatively close
coupling with the valve 10 so as to reduce the amount of space
required.
[0118] Turning now to FIG. 8, this figure represents a
cross-sectional view of a valve essentially similar to that as
discussed with respect to FIGS. 6 and 7. The gate 43 is more
completely illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, and is designed to receive
a spring 54. One end of the spring 54 pushes against an end plate
55 connected to the housing 40, and the other pushes against the
gate 43. As can be seen from FIGS. 8 and 9, as well as looking at
remaining FIGS. 10 and 11, for example, the left-hand end of the
gate 43 as seen in the figures includes an expanded spring receiver
portion for gate member. This spring receiver portion or gate
member is held by a release pin 46 so as to hold the gate 43 in the
open position against the action of the spring 54.
[0119] The housing 40 includes a chamber in which a gate 43 and the
spring 54 reside. The release pin 46 projects into this chamber
through a bushing 53. The bushing 53 allows for relatively easy
movement of the release pin 46, thus reducing the amount of force
required to move the release pin 46. As can be seen, upon
retraction of the release pin 46 from the chamber, the gate member
is released and the spring can push the gate 43 to the closed
position thereof.
[0120] The release pin 46 is connected to and fixed with respect to
a connector 47, essentially formed as a cylinder on the outer side
thereof. The connector 47 forms a wider portion on the release pin
46 so that it effectively forms a stop for stopping against the
bushing 53. Accordingly, the connector 47 stops the release pin 46
at a proper position of extension into the chamber of the housing
40.
[0121] It is noted that the connector 47 has a slot or axial
chamber 47a, essentially forming a gap therein, or axial space. In
this axial space, a link pin 48 resides. The link pin 48 has an end
portion wider than the opening therefor in the end of the connector
47. Accordingly, as the link pin 48 travels upwardly, it does not
pull on the connector 47 until the wider portion at the end thereof
engages with the upper end of the connector 47. Accordingly, this
allows for the link pin 48 to axially travel before engaging the
connector 47. A solenoid pin 49 of a solenoid 52 is fixed with
respect to the link pin 48 for movement thereof. This will be
discussed in more detail below.
[0122] A status indicator 57, furthermore, is provided in the
housing 40. The status indicator 57 is made of a material that will
be attracted to the gate 43 in the open position thereof, as shown
in FIG. 8. For example, a magnet 56 can be placed in the status
indicator 57 that will be attracted to the gate 43 in the open
position so as to indicate that the valve as a whole is in the open
position.
[0123] The valve of FIGS. 8 and 9 thus illustrates a spring loaded
gate valve that is held in the open position by the release of pin
46. The status indicator 57 indicates the open position of the
valve. By use of the release pin 46, no electric power is required
to maintain the valve in the open position.
[0124] FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate the valve having moved to the
closed position thereof. The solenoid 52 is connected to the
housing 40 through a further housing 50. Ordinarily, the solenoid
pin 49 is biased toward the engaged position of the release pin 46
by a solenoid spring 51. However, when the solenoid pin 49 is
pulled as a result of energizing the solenoid 52, the solenoid pin
49 moves against the force of the solenoid spring 51 until the link
pin 48 closes the gap 47a and contacts the connector 47. This
causes an impact force on the release pin 46, thus securely and
forcibly moving the release pin 46 from engagement with the gate
43. As the solenoid pin 49 continues to move the release pin 46 to
the point where it causes the gate 43 to be released, the spring 54
then moves the gate 43 to the closed position. As a result, the
status indicator 57 has the magnet 56 thereof released from
engagement with the gate 43, due to the gate 43 having moved to the
closed position. That is, the magnetic material of the gate 43 that
was present at the position of the status indicator 57 is no longer
present, and the magnet is released to indicate the closed status
of the valve.
[0125] By having the link pin travel a certain distance through the
connector 47 without engaging the connector 47, link pin 48 is
allowed to accelerate so as to cause an impact force on the
connector 47. This impact force has the advantage of greatly
reducing the amount of energy that is actually required to release
the gate 43.
[0126] Turning to FIGS. 12 and 13, there is illustrated a method of
resetting the valve. A knob 60 is connected to a reset pin 59,
which extends into the chamber of the housing 40. An end of the
reset pin 59 is received in a slot or channel formed in the gate
43, as for example seen in FIGS. 13 and 11. This slot, for example
from the position of FIG. 9, allows the gate 43 to move
unencumbered by the pin 59 to the closed position. The end of the
pin 59, from the open position to the closed position, moves from a
right-hand end of the slot to a left-hand end of the slot as shown
by FIG. 11. Pulling the knob 60 to the left, accordingly, pulls the
gate 43 to the left against the force of the spring 54, to the
point where the release pin 46 engages the gate 43 under the action
of the solenoid spring 51 so as to hold the gate 43, again, in the
open position.
[0127] The end plate 55 includes an internal dynamic seal such as
an O-ring around the reset pin 59. Further, a static seal on the
end of the housing 40 engages with a corresponding groove in the
knob 60, as can for example be seen by comparing FIG. 10 with FIG.
12, the seal remaining on the housing 40 between the two positions.
These two seals serve to effectively maintain the chamber of the
housing in a sealed state from the outside.
[0128] A stop 58 on the right-hand end of the chamber of the
housing 40 allows for the gate member to be cushioned and stopped
in an appropriate position at the closed position of the gate
43.
[0129] By having the gate 43 moved to the closed position without
movement of the release pin 59, the gate 43 is allowed to close
without any additional friction being applied to the movement of
the gate.
[0130] FIGS. 14 and 15 show a detail of a preferred relationship
between the release pin 46 and the gate 43 as discussed with
respect to FIGS. 8-13. The release pin 46 has an engaging surface
77 and the gate has an engaging surface 74, which are both angular.
By having both of these surfaces angular, the force required to
disengage the release pin 46 from the gate 43 for movement in the
direction 73 is reduced, and the overall energy required to operate
the valve is also decreased.
[0131] FIG. 15a shows a detail section of a gate valve similar to
that previously shown. The gate 43 is sealed with a seat 44 and
seat 45 on each side of the gate. Seat 45 is held into place by a
piston 45b that has a seal 45a that seals in the cylinder 41a that
is spring loaded and will apply a force 45c to seat 45, gate 43 and
seat 44. This feature allows a constant predetermined force to be
applied to the gate to form a seal. Further the gate 43 is
connected by a link-pin 43b to a "spring loaded member" 43a. The
link-pin 43b goes through the hole in the gate 43c. The link-pin
43b and the hole in the gate 43c have a "loose fit" that allows the
gate to float and form a good seal with seat 44 and 45. Note that
these features can be used together or alone. One advantage is to
control manufacturing tolerances that may be a problem without one
or both features.
[0132] Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, there is illustrated an
alternative arrangement of a release pin for a gate member in a
valve such as that discussed with respect to FIGS. 8-13. In these
figures, reference number 83 represents a gate valve member, 81
represents an engaging surface for engagement with a release member
and 83a represents a force applied to the valve member 83 for
closing the valve member 83.
[0133] As shown in FIG. 16, the engaging surface 81 is locked
against a release roller 84 for preventing the gate valve member 83
from moving. The engaging surface 81 could also be angular, as
discussed with respect to FIGS. 14 and 15 in order to reduce the
force required to disengage the release roller 84 from the gate of
member 83.
[0134] A solenoid 82 acts on a solenoid pin 86. The solenoid pin 86
has two rollers, 87 and 88, pivotally mounted thereto at pivots 87a
and 88a. These rollers allow the solenoid pin 86 to roll with
respect to the solenoid 82. The release roller 84 is connected at
the end of the solenoid pin 86 by a pivot 84a.
[0135] The force 83a applied to the valve member 83 is transferred
to release roller 84, the first guide roller 87 and the second
guide roller 88. Referring to FIG. 17, the gate valve member 83 is
released by the rolling action of the release roller 84 being
pulled by the action of the solenoid pin 86 when the solenoid 82 is
energized. Thus the solenoid pin 86 has to be of a magnetic
material, or a magnet. The first guide roller 87 rolls on a surface
87b, and a second guide roller 88 rolls on a surface 88b in
accordance with the forces applied thereto through the roller
84.
[0136] Use of the roller arrangement illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17
reduces the force requiring to release the valve member. Additional
rollers provide a rolling trigger, thus requiring less energy to
release the valve member.
[0137] Referring now to FIGS. 18 and 19, a gate valve design
similar to that of FIGS. 6 and 7 is illustrated. That is, the gate
itself, and its connection with respective seals, are similar to
those of FIGS. 6 and 7. What is illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19 is
another way of actuating and resetting the valve.
[0138] In this case, a gate 93 is attached to a magnet 93a and
movable in a valve housing 90 having a solenoid 92 mounted to the
outside thereof. The magnet 93a has north and south poles that are
arranged so that the magnet will be moved by energizing the
solenoid 92.
[0139] FIG. 18 shows the valve member gate 93 in the open position,
allowing gas to pass through an inlet 91 to an outlet 92.
[0140] A status indicator comprises an indicator 95a that is guided
by an outer plate 97, the indicator 95a being attached to a target
95 made of a magnetic material, or a magnet. Indicator 95a and the
target 95 are attracted to the magnet 93a of the valve member 93.
By such attraction, a spring 94 is compressed. The attraction
between the indicator 95a, target 95 and magnet 93a further help to
hold each other in position.
[0141] Energization of the solenoid 92 activates the valve 93.
Referring to FIG. 19, such Energization of the solenoid 92 moves
the magnet 93a and thus the gate 93 to the closed position.
[0142] It is noted that the polarity of the solenoid 92 required to
activate the valve member 93 toward the closed position depends
upon the orientation of the north and south poles of the magnet
93a. As the valve member 93 and the magnet 93a move to the closed
position, the indicator 95a and the target 95 will lose the
magnetic attraction to the magnet 93a. Accordingly, the spring 94
then pushes the indicator 95a and the target 95 outward, projecting
the indicator 95a beyond the outer plate 97. This then indicates
the status of the valve member 93.
[0143] When the magnet 93a moves the valve member 93 to the closed
position, magnet 93a is attracted to a second target 95b at the
right-hand end of the housing 90. This helps to hold the valve
member 93 in the closed position. This second target 95b at the
right-hand end of the housing 90 may not be necessary in some
applications because friction will be sufficient to hold the valve
member 93 in place.
[0144] It is further noted that the status indicator is not
required for the valve to operate. In order to reset the valve
member 93, the polarity of the solenoid is reversed so as to move
the magnet 93a and the valve member 93 to the open position. When
the valve member 93a reaches the open position, the magnet 93a
again attracts the first target 95 and indicator 95a to show the
open status of the valve.
[0145] Accordingly, with the embodiment of FIGS. 18 and 19, by
providing a magnet within a coil to operate the gate 93, remote
on/off control can be provided. The status indicator operates off
of the movement of the magnet, and can also provide a way of
holding the valve member in place.
[0146] FIGS. 20-21 schematically demonstrate away of shutting off
electric power. A meter box 100 has an electric meter 101 mounted
thereon together with a circuit breaker 102. The circuit breaker
102 has a pull chain 105 connected thereto. The pull chain 105 is
engaged with an electricity shut-off device 103 also mounted on the
meter box 100. A control module 106 is located at a remote location
and can communicate with the electricity shut-off device 103
through a wire 107 or by radio frequency. The power for operating
the electricity shut-off device 103 is either self-contained, or
can be provided by an outside source.
[0147] A door 100a as shown in FIG. 21 can be included, shown in
this figure in an open position. It is shown in the closed position
in FIG. 22. Further, FIG. 22 shows activation of the electricity
shut-off device 103, which pulls on the pull chain 105 to activate
the circuit breaker 102. The electricity shut-off device can be
spring-loaded, a solenoid, or a motor activated device.
[0148] The advantage of the arrangement of FIGS. 20-22 is that of
having a way of shutting off the electricity which can be activated
remotely and is self-contained. It allows the shut off of
electricity without requiring breaking into the electric panel box,
and is designed to fit behind the door thereof, allowing the door
to be closed. Other ways of connecting between the shut-off device
103 and the breaker 102 than the pull chain 105 can be
imagined.
[0149] FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate a specific embodiment of an
electricity shut-off device that could, for example, be used with
the arrangement shown in FIGS. 20-22. In this arrangement, a
spring-loaded shut-off device 110 has a rotatable spring-loaded arm
111 mounted to a pivot 111a having one end attached to a ball chain
115 as a pull chain. The other end of the pull chain 115 is
attached to a circuit breaker 112. The spring loaded arm 111 is
locked into position by a ball 114. An angled detention surface
111b is formed on the arm 111 for engagement with the ball 114. The
ball is restrained by a release pin 116 that is movable in a
cylinder 116a formed in the device 110. The angular surface 111b
pushes against the ball 114 and applies pressure to the release pin
116. A solenoid pin 117 is movable with respect to a solenoid 118
and is allowed to move within the release pin 116 without moving
the release pin 116 until a certain amount of slack illustrated at
116b is taken up and a stop 116c on the end of the solenoid pin 117
contacts the release pin 116.
[0150] Operation of the device is illustrated in FIG. 24. When the
solenoid 118 is energized, the solenoid pin 117 is pulled up to
first remove the slack 116b, and then pull the release pin 116 up
to a position that allows the ball 114 to move into the space
vacated by the release pin 116. After the ball 114 has moved to
this point, the spring-loaded arm 111 is released, and rotates
under its spring-load.
[0151] Rotation of the spring-loaded arm 111 causes the chain 115
to be pulled and the circuit breaker 112 to be moved to the off
position. In order to reset the spring-loaded shut-off device 110,
the spring-loaded arm 111 is rotated against the spring pressure
until the ball 114 clears the angled surface 111b and the release
pin 116 moves downward to push the ball 114 back into place
restraining the angled surface 111b. After the spring-loaded
shut-off device 110 has been reset, the circuit breaker 112 can be
reset.
[0152] By having this slack in the movement of the solenoid pin
117, an impact force is created for movement of the release pin
116. This reduces the amount of energy required to release the
device.
[0153] By using a ball, the force applied to the release pin is
reduced. Further, by having the ball press against an angled
surface, the amount of force on the release pin is further
reduced.
[0154] FIGS. 25 and 26 are similar to FIGS. 23 and 24, which shows
an alternative arrangement in which a second ball 114a is provided
which has a center in line with the center of the first ball 114.
This arrangement is provided in order to reduce the amount of
friction on the release pin 116.
[0155] Referring to FIG. 26, when the solenoid 118 is energized,
the solenoid pin 117 pulls up to first remove the slack 116b and
then pulls the release pin 116 up to a position allowing the first
ball 114 to move into the space vacated by the release pin 116. As
the release pin moves up, the second ball 114a rolls up along with
the release pin 116 until the angled surface 116c moves past the
center of the second ball 114a. At this point, the second ball 114a
falls down back into its original place.
[0156] When the ball 114 clears the spring-loaded arm 111, the arm
rotates. Rotation of the spring-loaded arm 111 causes the breaker
112 to be shut off as in the embodiment of FIGS. 23 and 24.
[0157] FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate a further embodiment of the
electricity shut-off device 110. In this embodiment, the release
pin and ball arrangement is replaced by a solenoid activated pin.
Specifically, a solenoid pin 119 has an end surface 119a engaged
with the angled surface 111b for detention thereof. The solenoid
pin 119 is biased into position by a spring 119b on the left-hand
end thereof. The solenoid pin 119 is moved by the solenoid 118.
[0158] When the solenoid 118 is energized, as seen in FIG. 28, the
solenoid pin 119 is moved against the force of the spring 119b to
release the spring-loaded arm 111, allowing it to rotate. Shut off
of the circuit breaker 112 is similar to the above-described
embodiments.
[0159] In order to reset the spring-loaded shut-off device 110, the
spring-loaded arm 111 is rotated against the spring pressure until
the solenoid pin 119 clears the angled detention surface 111b and
is pushed back into place by the spring 119b.
[0160] The embodiment of FIGS. 27 and 28 requirements fewer moving
parts than the embodiments of FIGS. 23-26. However, more energy may
be required for operation.
[0161] FIGS. 29-31 illustrate an electricity shut-off and external
power supply device that interfaces with an electric meter box, and
is referred to as an electric interface. This may be used as
electric interface 34 of FIG. 5, for example. The purpose of this
electric interface is to provide an easy and economic way of
providing for a remote shut-off of the electric power, and to
further provide electric power to operate the system described with
respect to FIG. 5.
[0162] Referring first to FIG. 29, there is illustrated a standard
meter box 200, which includes a meter mounting flange 201, meter
box receptacles 203 and a receptacle mounting plate 203a.
[0163] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view including an electric
meter 204, electric interface device 200a and the standard meter
box 200. The standard electric meter 204 includes meter plugs 204a,
which would ordinarily be engaged with meter box receptacles 203,
and a meter flange 204b. The meter flange 204b would ordinarily be
interconnected with the meter mounting flange 201 by a band such as
a security band 206 or 206a. However, the electric interface device
200a is provided to be disposed between the electric meter 204 and
the standard meter box 200.
[0164] The electric interface device 200a includes a housing having
an interface flange 201a and an interface flange 204c. The flange
201a is connected with the flange 204b by band 206 for connecting
the electric interface device 200a to the electric meter 204. The
flange 204c is connected with the flange 201 of the meter box 200
by a security band 206a. The interface can thus be locked to the
respective components. The meter box 200 is mounted to a structure
205, furthermore.
[0165] The electric interface device 200a further comprises
interface receptacles 210 to be connected with meter plugs 204a and
interface plugs 211 to be connected with meter box receptacles 203.
At least one set of an interface plug 211 and an interface
receptacle has a discontinuity therein that is closed by a shut-off
member 208a of a solenoid switch 208. When the shut-off member 208a
of the solenoid switch 208 is in its closed position, an actual
connection is thus established between the receptacles 203 and
plugs 204a.
[0166] Electric interface device 200a is accordingly provided with
a way of shutting off electricity by use of the solenoid switch 208
to move the shut-off member 208a. The member 208a provides
electrical communication between the receptacle 210 and plug 211,
ordinarily. However, upon activation of the solenoid switch 208,
the shut-off member 208a can interrupt communication there between
to shut off the electricity.
[0167] The solenoid switch 208 can be activated by a remote signal
by remote controller illustrated schematically by reference number
207. In addition, electric interface device 200a has an external
power connection 212 for providing power external of the interface
device. The external power can be stepped down to a low voltage in
the interface device for safety reasons.
[0168] FIG. 31 illustrates the arrangement of FIG. 30 in the
assembled state, with one change. In this variation, however, both
the external power and the remote control connection 207 are
illustrated as at the same location 207a.
[0169] Electric interface device 200a of FIGS. 29-31 not only
provides a shut-off device interfacing with an electric meter box
that can be remotely activated, but also provides power to operate
a system as described with respect to FIG. 5. This device provides
an easy way of providing a shut-off device for electricity,
reducing labor costs.
* * * * *