Patent ID: 7306195

Claim:
An actuator assembly for use in conjunction with a pneumatic valve assembly of the type which includes an airway having an inlet port, an outlet port, and a valve disposed within the airway and configured to be moved between an open position and a closed position, the actuator assembly comprising: a first housing; a first actuator coupled to the valve for moving the valve between the open position and the closed position when in a first operational mode, comprising; a diaphragm assembly disposed within the first housing and configured to be coupled to the valve such that the flexing of the diaphragm assembly results in the movement of the valve; and a first spring disposed in said first housing and biasing said diaphragm assembly in a direction corresponding to the closed position of the valve; and a second actuator coupled to the valve for opening the valve when in a second operational mode, comprising: a second housing substantially contained within said first housing and having an aperture therethrough; and a plunger partially disposed within said second housing and configured to translate relative to said second housing between an extended position and a retracted position, said plunger engaging said diaphragm assembly when the valve is proximate the closed position and biasing said diaphragm assembly in a direction corresponding to the open position of the valve.