Patent ID: 7562673
Filing Date: 2009-07-21
Classification: F16K,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An automatic flow shut-off system for closing a valve in a water supply line to shut off the flow of water to an appliance when a leak develops at said appliance; said system comprising: a valve actuator adapted to be connected to said valve to close said valve when said valve actuator is actuated; and a tripper unit responsive to said leak for actuating said valve actuator; said tripper unit comprising: a housing adapted to be positioned on a surface adjacent said appliance when in an operable position, said housing being positioned to allow the flow of water from said surface into said housing; a cartridge mounted in said housing, said cartridge being comprised of a water reactive material which will disintegrate when contacted by water; wherein said water reactive material said cartridge comprises a plurality of compressed peanuts of a starch-based material wrapped tightly in a water-wicking material; actuating means in said housing which is supported by said cartridge of said water reactive material when said material is dry, said means being free to move when said water reactive material comes into contact with water; and means for connecting said actuating means to said valve actuator whereby said valve actuator is actuated upon movement of said actuating means in said housing of said tripper unit.