Patent ID: 6695970
Filing Date: 2004-02-24
Classification: F16K

Abstract:
An actuated bypass valve for reducing swimming pool energy consumption comprising:(a) a tee-shaped valve body, the body having a first axis defined by a first leg and a second leg opposite the first leg and a second axis defined by a third leg, the third leg perpendicular to the first leg and second leg and the second axis perpendicular to the first axis; (b) an inlet formed by the first leg of the tee and an outlet formed by the second leg of the tee; (c) a stationary plate having a first face, the first face having a first plurality of openings, the stationary plate attached within the valve body with attachment means such that the first face is perpendicular to the first axis and parallel to the second axis; (d) a sliding plate having a second face, the second face having a second plurality of openings, the sliding plate slideably attached within the valve body such that the sliding plate is parallel to and abutting the stationary plate, and slideable in the direction of the second axis, a flow area created by the positioning of the second plurality of openings with respect to the first plurality of openings, the flow area having a maximum size and a minimum size; (e) actuating means attached to the sliding plate for sliding the sliding plate in a direction parallel to the second axis, the actuating means activated by an electrical current, wherein the flow area is having the minimum size when the actuating means is activated; (f) biasing means attached to the sliding plate, said biasing means maintaining the flow area at the maximum size when the actuating means is not activated; and (g) sealing means for sealing the third leg.