Fluid handling – Freeze condition responsive safety systems – Low temperature responsive drains
Reexamination Certificate
2005-07-19
2005-07-19
Lee, Kevin (Department: 3753)
Fluid handling
Freeze condition responsive safety systems
Low temperature responsive drains
C137S079000, C137S384000, C137S385000, C236S10100B
Reexamination Certificate
active
06918402
ABSTRACT:
The present invention provides a flow control apparatus and method. In accordance with the present invention, the flow control apparatus comprises a thermostat that automatically actuates valve to enable water to flow through the valve when the temperature of the air or water is at or near the freezing temperature of water (32° F.). When the temperature of the air or water rises above freezing, the thermostat causes the valve to close, thereby preventing water from flowing through the valve. Therefore, when the apparatus is coupled to an end of a water conduit, such as a water spigot or hose, water is allowed to flow through the conduit when the air or water temperature is at or near freezing to prevent the conduit from bursting due to water freezing and expanding within the conduit.
REFERENCES:
patent: 1689236 (1928-10-01), Fraser, Jr.
patent: 1786878 (1930-12-01), Van Keuren
patent: 1879397 (1932-09-01), Minor
patent: 1928295 (1933-09-01), Lusher
patent: 4205698 (1980-06-01), Hucks
patent: 4437481 (1984-03-01), Chamberlin
patent: 4484594 (1984-11-01), Alderman
patent: 4625626 (1986-12-01), Aalto et al.
patent: 4712766 (1987-12-01), Ehrenhalt
patent: 4809727 (1989-03-01), Chamberlin
patent: 4811765 (1989-03-01), Giha
patent: 5113892 (1992-05-01), Hull et al.
patent: 5217201 (1993-06-01), Self
patent: 6125873 (2000-10-01), Brown
patent: 534544 (1941-03-01), None
U.S. Patent Application “A Flow Control Apparatus and Method”, U.S. Appl. No. 09/672,845, filed Sep. 28, 2000.
Lee Kevin
Thomas Kayden Horstemeyer & Risley LLP
LandOfFree
Flow control apparatus does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.
If you have personal experience with Flow control apparatus, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Flow control apparatus will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-3416245