Method and apparatus for improved regulation of flow of particulate matter
US6802434B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 31, 2001 |
| Grant date | Oct 12, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 31, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/86743
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus is provided for regulating the flow of rates of particulate matter. The invention includes a flow gate with a generally cylindrical body having a flow path defined there through. A stator member is provided in fixed position relative to the cylindrical body. The stator member has a plurality of alternating tapered vein portions and inlet portions. A rotor member is interfaced with the stator member. The rotor member has a plurality of alternating stock portions and outlet port portions. The rotary coupling is utilized to couple the rotor member and the stator member. A position actuator is provided for receiving at least one control input and producing a corresponding displacement of the rotor member. A mechanical coupling is provided between the position actuator and the rotor member. The flow gate is utilized to obtain a particular flow rate within a range of available flow rates by determining the relative positions of the inlet ports of the stator member and the outlet ports of the rotor member.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.