Patent ID: 6851440
Filing Date: 2005-02-08
Classification: G05D,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method of mixing a first fluid and at least a second fluid in a mixing valve comprising: providing a valve body including a first fluid inlet, at least a second fluid inlet, and a fluid outlet, providing in at least one fluid inlet a check valve configured to prevent fluid from flowing out of the valve through the at least one inlet, the check valve including: a first check valve member in the valve body; a second check valve member moveable within the valve body in a defined path of motion and engageable with the first check valve member; and a biasing device for urging the second check valve member into engagement with the first check valve member and for defining the path of motion of the second check valve member, the biasing member being the only mechanical connection between the valve body and the second check valve member when the second check valve member is in a position spaced apart from the first check valve member, such that the first fluid and the at least a second fluid are mixed in the valve body while preventing a flow out of the valve body through the at least on fluid inlet.