Universal multi-path control valve system

Details Universal multi-path control valve system Universal multi-path control valve system

2000-06-19

2001-03-27

Lee, Kevin (Department: 3753)

Fluid handling

Convertible

Units interchangeable between alternate locations

C137S595000, C137S625190

Reexamination Certificate

active

06206028

ABSTRACT:

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to fluid handling, and more particularly to a supply/shutoff valve system having multiple inlets and multiple outlets for each inlet.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Modern kitchens and bathrooms frequently include a variety of water consuming apparatuses which require a supply of hot and/or cold water. These apparatuses include garbage disposals, refrigerators (with water dispensers and/or icemakers), dishwashers, water filtration systems, faucets, instant hot water makers and the like. Conventionally, each such appliance and faucet required an associated supply/shut off valve. Installation of such valves is often beyond the capability of the homeowner. Also, the spaces where such valves are typically installed, e.g. under kitchen sinks and in bathroom vanities, are frequently very limited. Installation of multiple valves and their associated plumbing in these spaces is frequently difficult, time consuming and expensive. The resultant jumble of valves may result in the consumer not knowing which valve to operate to shut off a particular appliance.
Consumers are increasingly concerned with the presence of contaminants in their water supply. It is well known that traditional soldered plumbing can transmit lead into a household water supply. Alternative materials, such as advanced molded plastic materials, are frequently used in applications where traditional plumbing is undesirable due to its possibly toxic effect on the water supply. Molded plastic fixtures often have the added benefit of being easier to install than their traditional metal counterparts.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Briefly stated, the invention, in one preferred embodiment, is a valve system including a novel multiple outlet valve assembly. This valve assembly comprises a molded plastic housing which defines an elongated valve shaft chamber and at least two groups of fluid inlet/outlet passages. These groups of passages each include at least three connectors which, when the valve assembly is in the open state, are in fluid communication with one another. The valve assembly also includes a rotatable valve shaft, valve seats and a handle. The valve assembly is preferably sold with a plurality of plugs and fittings which together form a system. The system allows the consumer to select the ultimate valve system configuration from a variety of possible combinations.
A pair of ball valves, interconnected by the rotatable valve shaft, are installed in the valve shaft chamber of the housing. The ball valves are provided with a fluid flow passage and are selectively positionable to establish or interrupt fluid communication between a first connector and a pair of further connectors of the same group. Seals are provided to isolate the groups of connectors from one another and also to separate the fluid transmitting portions of the valve assembly housing from the ambient atmosphere. The connectors are internally and/or externally threaded, facilitating the attachment of the plugs and fittings and/or fluid supply and distribution conduits. Removable valve seats are positioned to cooperate with each of the valve balls.
An object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved valve system which can be employed to supply both hot and cold water to one or more diverse fluid consuming loads.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved multiple outlet valve system of efficient molded construction which does not contribute lead to the water supply.
A yet further object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved multiple outlet valve system which provides for a simplified and space saving installation.
A yet further object of the present invention is to provide a new and improved multiple outlet valve system which employs a single operator handle.
Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the drawings and the specification.


REFERENCES:
patent: 3234958 (1966-02-01), Butters
patent: 3865139 (1975-02-01), Tolnai
patent: 4611626 (1986-09-01), Logsdon
patent: 4880032 (1989-11-01), Doutt
patent: 5129420 (1992-07-01), Johnson
patent: 5437304 (1995-08-01), Delcroix

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