Kent Alan Miller

Title: Innovator Kent Alan Miller: Pioneering Advancements in Ball Valve Technology

Introduction: Kent Alan Miller, based in Hendersonville, Tennessee, is a noteworthy inventor who has made significant contributions to the field of refrigeration and air conditioning systems. With three patents to his name, he has developed cutting-edge technologies that enhance the efficiency and control of fluid circuits, particularly through his innovative ball valve designs.

Latest Patents: Kent Alan Miller's recent innovations focus on incrementally positionable ball valves catered to refrigeration and air conditioning applications. His latest patents include:

1. **Incrementally Positionable Ball Valve** - This invention introduces a ball valve that can be remotely controlled using a low amperage control signal. The valve utilizes the pressurized refrigerant from the fluid circuit as the primary power medium for actuation. It features a feedback sensor that informs a controller of the valve's incremental position, allowing for refined operations. Additionally, the ball valve is equipped with locator detents for manual control and a restrictor for adjusting flow capacity.

2. **Refrigerant Powered Actuated Ball Valve** - In this design, Miller presents a ball valve that also operates based on pressurized refrigerant. Similar to the incrementally positionable version, it enables remote control via a low amperage control signal. The valve design includes a manifold and a reciprocal member that transforms linear movement into an angular motion, facilitating the cycling of the valve between open and closed positions through the pressurized refrigerant.

Career Highlights: Kent Alan Miller has dedicated his career to advancing fluid circuit technology at Mueller Industries, Inc. His expertise in the field has led to the development of practical solutions that greatly enhance the performance of HVAC systems. His innovative mindset and engineering acumen have earned him recognition within the industry.

Collaborations: While specific collaborations have not been detailed, Miller’s work at Mueller Industries, Inc. suggests that he is likely involved in various partnerships with other engineers and industry experts aimed at refining and advancing HVAC and refrigeration technologies.

Conclusion: Kent Alan Miller's contributions to ball valve technology highlight the importance of innovation in the field of refrigeration and air conditioning. His patents reflect a commitment to improving efficiency and control in fluid circuits, showcasing the valuable work of inventors dedicated to advancing technology for practical applications. With a focus on remote operation and use of pressurized refrigerants, Miller's inventions stand as a testament to the ongoing evolution within this essential industry.