The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Dec. 20, 2005
Filed:
Aug. 11, 2003
Steven D. Welch, Earleville, MD (US);
Robert J. Elbich, Fogelsville, PA (US);
Erik Zetterstrand, Palmerton, PA (US);
Steven D. Welch, Earleville, MD (US);
Robert J. Elbich, Fogelsville, PA (US);
Erik Zetterstrand, Palmerton, PA (US);
Mitos Technologies, Inc., Phoenixville, PA (US);
Abstract
A gasketless, straight-through bore fluid flow pinch valve and flexible, removable tubing element for improved sanitary conditions in production facilities. The valve casing is joined by fittings that enable separation of the casing to remove and replace the flexible element, which includes all wetted surfaces. The fittings may be one or more hinges to permit partial separation of the valve casing, which permits the element to remain on-line while maintenance is performed on the valve. The flexible element is a silicone or PTFE-composite which is in an axially compressed state when locked into the valve by rigid, tolerance-fitted backup cups on the molded ends of the element, which increases the process life of the element.