Patent ID: 6800058
Filing Date: 2004-10-05
Classification: A61B,G05D,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
A vacuum controller for use with a suction device, comprising:a main vacuum line having an upstream portion and a downstream portion; means for placing the downstream portion in fluid communication with the suction device; means for placing the upstream portion in fluid communication with a vacuum source; a closeable valve in the main vacuum line between the upstream and downstream portions of the main vacuum line; means for closing the valve across the main vacuum line to at least partially interrupt fluid communication within the main vacuum line in response to a drop in vacuum in the main vacuum line; a pilot passage smaller than the main vacuum line, the pilot passage in fluid communication with the vacuum source and also in fluid communication with the suction device when the valve is closed; and means for opening the valve in response to an increase in vacuum in the main vacuum line such that in the event of a loss of vacuum at the suction device, air flow to the suction device is provided through the pilot passage to the suction device and in the event of a subsequent increase in vacuum at the suction device, the valve is opened to restore vacuum to the suction device.