Pinch valve assembly and method for using same
US11879566B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 18, 2022 |
| Grant date | Jan 23, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 18, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L55/179
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A pinch valve configured to be combined with an inversion apparatus. An elongated component, such as a rope, cable, or light train, is able to pass through the lumen of the pinch valve during the positioning and curing of a repair assembly into an underground pipe system. A deformable member positioned within the housing is movable between a first position having a first internal diameter and a second position having a second internal diameter that is smaller than the first internal diameter. In the second position the deformable member is moved to constrict around the elongated component as the component passes through the valve. This helps prevent pressure from escaping through the pinch valve by decreasing the space between the deformable member and the elongated component. In this manner, the internal diameter of the pinch valve is able to conform to various diameters of elongated components passing through the valve in real time by moving the deformable member to create the desired internal diameter.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.