Universal multi-path control valve system
AssigneeThe Keeney Manufacturing Company
InventorsR. Stuart Holden, Richard E. Marzec, Frank Pieters
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A universal multi-path control valve system includes at least two sets of outlets controlled by a single on/off operator. A compact design allows the control valve system to save space in the compact areas where plumbing fixtures are typically installed. The control valve system is constructed entirely of molded plastic components. Fittings supplied with the control valve system allow for customized installation according to the needs of the installer. Appliances may be easily added or removed using threaded connections on the valve and fittings supplied as part of the control valve system.
Claims16
A valve system comprising:
- a valve housing, said housing defining a valve shaft chamber and at least two groups of fluid flow passages, each of said passages terminating at a connector on the exterior of said housing, the passages of each group being in fluid communication with said chamber, the first passage of each group being an inlet and the remaining passages being outlets, the inlet passage and at least a first outlet passage of each group being in axial alignment, at least a second outlet passage extending from each of said first outlet passages at a location downstream of said chamber;
- a pair of spatially separated valve members, said valve members being movably positioned in said chamber, said valve members being located intermediate respective of said aligned inlet and outlet passages and in registration therewith, said valve members having a first position where flow between said aligned passages is permitted and a second position where flow between said aligned passages is prevented;
- a rotatable valve shaft disposed in said chamber and coupled to said valve members;
- a valve seat positioned in each of said inlet passages for cooperation with respective of said valve members;
- a valve operator extending through said housing to engage said shaft whereby said valve members may be caused to simultaneously move between said first and second positions;
- first seal means in said chamber and cooperating with said shaft and said housing to prevent fluid flow between said groups of passages;
- and
- a plurality of fittings for engaging said connectors, whereby the configuration of said connectors may be altered.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.