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U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
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Class 415
ROTARY KINETIC FLUID MOTORS OR PUMPS
Class Definition:
This is the class for apparatus, and corresponding methods of
operating such apparatus, comprising a runner*, and in which
a working fluid* is guided to, around, or from, the runner.
A means for guiding or confining (e.g., casing*, distributing
means*, etc.), the working fluid* must be present, at least
by implication, in a claim for classification in this class
unless specifically indicated otherwise, the mere recitation
of the moving member or runner* being insufficient. A
reference in a claim to a control or regulating means for the
working fluid* is considered to imply the presence of such
guiding or confining means. In such an instance, the claim
will be classified in this class, despite the lack of an
explicit inclusion in the claim of the guiding or confining
means for the working fluid*.
This class includes typically turbines, wind and water
wheels, centrifugal pumps* and blowers; and such casings*,
conduits, guide means and other elements peculiar to the
subject matter of this class not otherwise classifiable.
Also included is apparatus of the type described, but which
has no shaft to transmit mechanical power output therefrom,
unless the sole specific disclosure is for a flow meter of
the turbine type, see References To Other Classes, below, for
a class reference to measuring and testing.
Also specifically included in this class is a device
comprising a container or receptacle supported for orbiting
movement and in which (1) a working fluid* flows into and out
of the container to cause the orbiting motion or (2) the
container is caused to move by a force to retain and raise a
supply of working fluid* to a higher relative elevation
before the fluid is discharged from the container.
This class will also take a "black box" motor which is
clearly shown as rotary unless specifically described as of
the expansible chamber type; see Class 418, for such
expansible chamber motor.
LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
This class will not take an apparatus of the type described
which includes an expansible chamber in which the working
fluid* acts, i.e., a chamber which varies in volume by virtue
of one wall moving towards or away from another wall.
Examples of such devices are the sliding vane*-type rotary
devices or the nutating axis-type rotary pump*. See
References to Other Classes, below, for such apparatus.
This class will not take a pump of any type whose driving
means, no matter how broadly recited, is controlled by a
condition of the pumped fluid; see See References to Other
Classes, below, Class 417, appropriate subclasses, especially
1+ for such devices.
A "black box" pump clearly disclosed as rotary will be found
in Classes 417 and 418; see the respective line notes of
these classes.
GENERAL RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER CLASSES
This class relates to apparatus of the type described usable
as a pump* or as a motor* or as both alternatively. It does
not theoretically provide for: (1) the combination of a pump*
and a motor* driving the pump*, (2) the combination of a
motor* and a load driven thereby, or (3) the combination of a
motor* and a source of working fluid* or an energy increasing
means (e.g., pump*) for the working fluid*.
However, all of the above combinations are common and are
frequently mentioned broadly in the claims even though of
substantially no significance for search purposes.
Therefore where a motor* or a pump* is so claimed as to
afford a basis for classification in this class, the mere
nominal recitation in the claim of one of the above common
combination features and also a mere nominal recitation of a
relationship of such features with the motor* or pump* will
not cause exclusion from this class.
(1) NOTE. WHEN THE PUMPS* FORM THE BASIS OF CLASSIFICATION
FOR THIS CLASS.
A. The following examples of terminology are considered to
be mere nominal recitations of a drive means for the pump*
which would not preclude classification in this class:
(1) drive means, or means for driving;
(2) motor* drive in which the motor* is disclosed as a well
known type and identified merely by its generic name or
merely as turbine, electric, magnetic, internal combustion,
etc.
B. The following examples of terminology are considered to be
minimum significant or specific recitations of a drive means
for the pump* which would preclude classification in this
class and indicate classification in Class 417, Pumps.
1. language reciting enough of the driving structure to
identify the type of motor* or to permit or cause cooling,
(other than merely mounting the unit in a duct where it would
inherently be cooled) lubricating or sealing the motor*
elements or the motor* housing, e.g. a. for an electric
motor*, the stator and rotor or a specific housing for
sealing or cooling; b. for a turbine motor*, the runner* and
a fluid distributing means; c. for a reciprocating motor*,
the piston and fluid guiding or confining means; d. for a
magnetic motor*, the arrangement of the magnets around the
rotor; e. for the appropriate motor*, the electric circuit or
control therefor, or the fluid circuit or control therefor,
including, in the case of a single blade*, part of which is
used as the driving turbine and the remainder as the pumping
element, the two fluid paths.
2. an art device (door, vehicle part, etc.), recited as the
driving means.
3. a common supporting base for the pump* and motor*; the
motor* or its housing supported on the pump* housing or vice
versa; a motor* mounted on a tank, or a tank mounted on the
motor*; details of the motor support*.
(2) NOTE. WHEN THE MOTOR* FORMS THE BASIS OF CLASSIFICATION
FOR THIS CLASS;
A. The following examples of terminology are considered to
be mere nominal recitations of a load driven by the motor*
which would not preclude classification in this class: 1. a
propeller 2. a rotary or reciprocating fan, pump* or impeller
3. an electric generator 4. indicating means
B. The following examples of terminology are considered to be
specific or significant recitations of a load driven by the
motor* which would preclude classification in this class and
indicate classification in the class in which the load is
classified: 1. a three bladed propeller (Class 416, Fluid
Reaction Surfaces, (i.e., Impellers); 2. a centrifugal,
positive displacement or gear pump* (Classes 417, Pumps, or
418, Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices); 3. an electric
generator in which is included any detail of the generator or
any relationship between a generator part and a motor* part
(Class 290, Prime-Mover Dynamo Plants); 4. an electric
generator in which, as claimed, part of the electricity is
used for control purposes and part of power purposes (Class
290, Prime-Mover Dynamo Plants); 5. a dial and needle, number
wheels, or other specific meter or register mechanism (Class
73, Measuring and Testing)
C. The following examples of terminology are considered to be
nominal recitations of a source or energy level increasing
means for the working fluid* for driving the motor* which
would not preclude classification in this class: 1. a boiler
2. a flowing fluid stream 3. a rotary or reciprocating fan or
pump* 4. a motor* (named) driven fan or pump* 5. a plurality
of pumps* in parallel
D. The following examples of terminology are considered to be
significant or specific recitations of a source or energy
level increasing means for the working fluid* for driving the
motor*, which would preclude classification in this class and
indicate classification in Class 60, Power Plants; 1. a
firetube or watertube boiler 2. a dam or earthworks
(nominally or broadly recited) bearing some physical
relationship with the motor*; 3. a fan or pump* characterized
as to type more specifically than rotary or reciprocating
(e.g., centrifugal, positive displacement, pulsator, etc.),
or reciting any detail thereof (e.g., piston, lobe, etc.); 4.
a motor* driven pump* in which a detail of the motor* is
recited and by which the type of motor* can be identified
(e.g., combustion chamber, armature, field, turbine rotor and
flow means, etc.), or in which a specific motor housing is
recited for sealing or cooling motor* elements; 5. a
plurality of pumps* in series
E. If what appears to be a load (e.g., pump* or fan) on the
motor* is actually disclosed for internal purposes only to
affect a motor* condition or operation, (e.g., lubrication,
sealing, control), then the load is considered to be a part
of the motor* itself, no matter how specifically it is
recited, and would not exclude a claim from this class. If
the load output is disclosed for external use only,
classification is on the basis of the load in the appropriate
class if the claimed recitations of the load warrant. If the
load output is divided and part is used internally for
affecting a motor* condition or operation, and another part
used externally, classification is on the basis of the load.
(3) Note. When a motor*-pump* combination is claimed so
broadly so that the recitations applicable to either the
pump* or motor* cannot form the basis for classification in
this class, the combination is classified in the appropriate
pump* class if the motor* drives the pump* or in Class 60,
Power Plants, if the pump* is an energy increasing means for
the working fluid* for driving the motor*.
PUMP-TANK RELATIONSHIP
The combination of a pump and a tank is generally classified
in Class 137. However, a single, nominally recited tank,
reservoir, chamber, pump or other similar fluid holding means
will be considered as merely a flow line or conduit and will
be classified in Class 415. However, see Class 222,
Dispensing, class definition, paragraph 91 regarding other
pump-tank relationships.
PUMP-ACCUMULATOR RELATIONSHIP
An accumulator or surge damping device is usually connected
to a pump inlet or outlet for the purpose of maintaining a
smooth flow to or from the pump. When disclosed for the
purpose of surge damping or insuring smooth flow, the
combination of an accumulator and pump is classified in Class
415.
PUMP-LIQUID ACCUMULATION CONTROL RELATIONSHIP
1. A pump claimed in combination with a liquid accumulation
controlled valve is classified in Class 137 except for the
following which will be found in Class 415.
When the liquid accumulation or level responsive valve which
controls a liquid flow to the pump or a gas relief from the
pump is for the specifically disclosed purpose of priming the
pump, see Class 415, subclass 24.
2. A pump claimed in combination with a drive transmission
therefor which is controlled by liquid accumulation is
classified in Class 415, subclasses 24 or 122.1+.
PUMP-PLURAL SERIAL VALVE RELATIONSHIP
A pump claimed in combination with plural serial valves in
either or both the inlet and outlet flow path, and without
any branched flow path is classifiable in Class 415, even
though one or more of the valves is manually operated or
condition responsive.
PUMP-MAIN FLOW PATH AND BRANCHED FLOW PATH RELATIONSHIP
Generally a branched flow system having a main flow path and
a branched flow path, with or without a pump is classifiable
in Class 137. However, several exceptions, which usually
depend on the disclosure in the particular case, are set
forth below:
1. A pump having plural branched flow paths, whether valved
or not, communicating with a single source or receiver is
classifiable in Class 415. Where there is no specific
disclosure of the sources or receivers for the flow paths,
the disclosure will be considered as if there were a single
source or receiver and will be classified in Class 415.
2. A pump having a main flow path and a branched flow path,
each communicating with separate sources or receivers is
classifiable in Class 415, if: (A) The source or receiver for
the main flow path is unclaimed or nominally claimed and (B)
the branched flow path is specifically disclosed as a relief
inlet or outlet to the pump a priming inlet to the pump, a
bypass around the pump, or a vent, waste or drain outlet from
the pump, and either (i) the main flow path is uncontrolled
or (ii) the main flow path is controlled and the branched
flow line is (a) uncontrolled, (b) manually controlled or (c)
controlled by a condition responsive valve responding to a
condition in the main flow path which is sensed between the
pump and the main flow path controller.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, appropriate subclasses for: (1) the
combination of a motor* and a specifically recited source of
working fluid* or a means to increase the energy level of a
working fluid*, see LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES (2) Note, C and
D; (2) plural diverse motors*, each providing power for
external use, either in series on the same shaft, or in
parallel on separate output shafts; (3) the combination of a
pump* (no matter how broadly recited) which discharges to a
fluid motor*, where a part of the motor* output is used to
drive the pump*, or a fluid motor* driving a pump* which
discharges at least part of the fluid to the motor* for
driving the motor*; (4)a motor* (even though disclosed as
being for Class 415) which depends for operation on the
buoyancy of a fluid, or on the vertical component of Tides
and Waves; (5) fluid operated reciprocating or oscillating
motor* of the nonexpansible chamber type; (6) all fluid
operated motors* not otherwise classified, (e.g., "black box"
not clearly shown as rotary); (7) the combination of a fluid
motor and exhaust fluid treating or handling. Exhaust fluid
is considered to be that fluid downstream of a runner* after
it leaves the final means which could affect operation of the
motor (e.g., by affecting the back pressure on the runner);
treatment or handling is considered to involve more than
merely carrying away the exhaust fluid from the motor through
a single constant diameter conduit. A valve in the outlet
conduit affects back pressure on the runner and is proper
subject matter for Class 415; an expanding outlet conduit, a
specific physical spatial relationship of the exhaust conduit
and the motor, or a plurality of outlet conduits are examples
of fluid handling for Class 60; a heat exchanger is an
example of fluid treatment for Class 60. An elbow, support
or other fitting is considered to constitute a mere part of
the exhaust conduit, unless the diameter of the conduit is
altered thereby, which indicates classification in Class 60.
(8) the combination of a specifically recited runner for
moving a fluid and a outlet for discharging the fluid, where
the sole, specific disclosure is to obtain thrust and
therefore translating motion of the apparatus with which the
runner and outlet are associated.
73, Measuring and Testing, 861.79 for a rotary motor* in
which the rotary member drives means which continuously
determines, registers or indicates the volume or rate of flow
of a fluid material, the motor* being positioned in the flow
path of the material, and for a turbine-type meter which, as
disclosed, is incapable of acting as a motor*.
(1) Note. In many turbine meters, the runner* shaft extends
no further than the bearings therefor. Since no power output
may be obtained from such an arrangement, such a meter is
incapable of acting as a motor* and classification in Class
73 is indicated.
(2) Note. Class 415 will take a turbine-type meter in which
the runner* shaft is disclosed as connected to a nominal load
(e.g., indicating mechanism), see Lines With Other Classes,
(2) Note, A and B; and the combination of a pump* or motor*
for this class and a register or recorder giving information
as to the amount of working fluid* passing through the
system.
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, 5, especially subclasses
5.37, 5.43 and 5.7 for a gyroscope (see Class 74, subclass 5,
(1) Note for definition and (2) Note for exception)
comprising a mass rotating about a first axis, this axis
supported for at least a limited amount of freedom to pivot
about a second axis transverse to the first. A claim reciting
the combination of a mass and fluent means to impinge on and
cause the mass to rotate about an axis is classified in Class
415, unless there is claimed structure which permits freedom
of motion of the mass about more than one axis, even though
the sole specific disclosure is for a gyroscope mass with
motion about two axes.
(1) Note. A rotor which is claimed as spherical and a
complementary bearing therefor has been considered as having
the two degrees of freedom of motion required for gyroscopes,
and accordingly, such a claim is classified in Class 74.
91, Motors: Expansible Chamber Type, appropriate subclasses
for a motor which may be of the rotary type but which
converts the energy of a simple pressure fluid in an
expansible chamber, no energy being extracted except by
expansion of the chamber by virtue of the fluid reacting
against a fixed abutment, a mechanical force being produced
by movement of a wall of the chamber.
(1) Note. Classes 91, Motors: Expansible Chamber Type,
417, Pumps, and 418, Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices, all
provide for an expansible chamber device (motor or pump)
which may be rotary, the distinction being on the nature of
the valving for the working fluid. For clear statements as to
the differences among these classes see the line notes in
each class to the others.
137, Fluid Handling, the line between Classes 137 and 415 is
generally that of combination and subcombination, with Class
137 providing for a fluid handling system which may include a
pump and Class 415 providing for a rotary nonexpansible
chamber type pump, per se. However, certain areas of subject
matter are considered peculiar to pumps and their operation
and are considered to be exceptions to the general rule
stated above. These and other lines are set out below.
138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, appropriate subclasses, for
a flow conductor of general utility there provided for, with
or without a flow restrictor or guide means, even though
disclosed for use in a motor* or pump* environment. A
housing or casing* which is of peculiar shape (spiral or
volute) for coaction with a disclosed motor* or pump*
runner*, even though claimed as the casing*, per se, will be
classified in Class 415.
184, Lubrication Appropriate subclasses, for a pump*
forcing lubricant and a bearing member which receives the
lubricant.
185, Motors: Spring, Weight, or Animal Powered, appropriate
subclasses, for a motor* which uses a discrete weight for
operation thereof; a fluent material stream flowing into and
out of a runner* bucket is considered a discrete weight for
Class 185 and such devices will be found therein even though
the operation is intermittent, i.e., the runner* stops while
the bucket is filled, then rotates to another position where
it may again be stopped for emptying the bucket.
188, Brakes, subclass 273 and 293 for a rotary member driven
by fluid, and driving a fluid, respectively, in a conduit or
casing and having a control for the exhaust fluid so that
shutting off the exhaust develops a back pressure on the
rotary member and thus increases its resistance to rotation.
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, subclasses .03-.098
for the combination of a fluid rotary motor* and a clutch
mechanism, in which there are interrelated controls for the
motor* and the clutch, and subclass 3, for the combination of
a fluid rotary motor* and a brake or lock applied to the
motor* or its output shaft and having a mechanism for the
joint control of the motor* and the brake or lock.
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, appropriate subclasses,
particularly 701+ for a member mounted on a driven endless
belt or on a driven rotating wheel, the member dipping into a
source of fluent material and carrying a portion thereof to
another station, the member working in the open or in a loose
fitting casing* or having a flange or other means for
retaining the material thereon while moving.
(1) Note. A close fitting casing* around the member is
considered to define with the member an expansible chamber
device, and, when driven by or driving a fluid, indicates
classification in Class 91, Motors: Expansible Chamber Type,
Class 92, Expansible Chamber Devices, or Class 418, Rotary
Expansible Chamber Devices.
222, Dispensing, 14, 23+ and 71+ for a pump* with selectively
preset means to control the quantity discharged or with
totalizing or recording means, or with measuring means in
addition to pump* structure: and other appropriate
subclasses for the combination of a supply container and a
pump* in a dispensing system: see the Main Class Definition
of Class 222, section 9 for a complete statement of the line
between the two classes.
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, appropriate
subclasses, for a nozzle, per se, which discharges a free jet
of fluid and which is of general utility, even though
disclosed for use with a fluid operated motor*, and for the
combination of a pump* and a specific discharge nozzle; 240
for a turbine-type motor* driving a continuously moving fluid
distributor or nozzle; Subclasses 251+ for an external fluid
supply and a fluid distributor or nozzle which is
continuously moved relative to a support by the reaction
caused by discharge of the fluid from the distributor or
nozzle (e.g., reaction turbine) the fluid being discharged
into the ambient atmosphere, in the absence of a disclosure
that the moving distributor is aerodynamically shaped or has
aerodynamic qualities, thus making the distributor an
impeller properly classified in Class 416, Fluid Reaction
Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), the reaction discharge being
considered the driving motor* therefor; Subclasses 380+ for
the combination of a fluid pump* and a discharge modifier
downstream of the pump and external of the fluid confining or
guiding means, which modifier is continuously moved by a
motion transmitting means or by the fluid discharging thereon
from the fluid system outlet.
(1) Note. A claimed casing* or housing surrounding the
moving distributor whereby the discharged fluid is collected
indicates classification in Class 415; however, a claimed
specific terminal fluid discharge element from the casing* to
the atmosphere shifts the claim back to Class 239.
(2) Note. A set of wheels driven by the moving fluid
distributor is considered to be a specific load and is
excluded from Class 415. Such devices will be found in
various classes, depending on details claimed; for example,
wheels on a rotary distributor discharging fluid into the
atmosphere will be found in Class 239.
(3) Note. A disclosure that the direction or rotation of
the moving distributor may be alternated indicates
classification in Class 415; this feature is entirely foreign
to a lawn sprinkler type moving distributor.
241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration,
appropriate subclasses for a pump* and comminuting structure
which is separate and distinct from the pump* runner or the
surrounding casing* and causes comminution before or after
impelling. A device in which the pump* runner* or the
surrounding casing* is so made as to cause comminution of the
material at substantially the zone of impelling the material
is proper subject matter for Class 415; a structure in which
the comminuting structure is arranged upstream or downstream
of the pump* impeller, which may itself cause comminution, is
classified in Class 241.
248, Supports, 637 for the combination of a support and a
casing* claimed so broadly as to be of general utility, even
though disclosed as the casing* of a motor* or pump*. Thus,
the recitation as a turbine or pump casing* will not serve to
exclude the claim from Class 248. However, a claim which
includes a runner* or a shaft* in the casing* is excluded
from Class 248 and will be classified in Class 415 if no
other basis for classification exists; a claim which includes
the relationship between a support and a part (other than the
casing*) of a motor* or pump* device is excluded from Class
248 and will be found in Class 415 unless classified
elsewhere on another basis.
277, Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing
means or process (e.g., seal between a runner* and another
relatively movable part, seal between the two relatively
moving members, does not recite enough details of the rotary
kinetic device, etc.), 345 for a seal between relatively
movable parts (i.e., a dynamic seal), especially subclasses
427+ for a dynamic close proximity seal (e.g., contactless,
fluent, etc.) having an impeller or another rotating member
to form a centrifugal liquid barrier.
384, Bearings, appropriate subclasses for a bearing which may
include a runner or shaft supported formation with on details
of the runner or shaft.
403, Joints and Connections, appropriate subclasses, for
means connecting a plurality of elements, even though the
elements be disclosed as pump* or motor* elements, if the
rotary device is recited nominally or by name only and cannot
form the basis of classification in Class 415.
406, Conveyors: Fluid Current, appropriate subclasses for
systems which transport solids by means of a fluid current,
and which include a fluid pump for generating the current.
Rotary pumps, per se, which include structure peculiar to the
passage of solids as well as the conveying fluid through the
pump are classified in Class 406, 96. See also subclasses
57+ and 80 for a screw conveyor or an endless belt conveyor,
respectively, which feeds to the inlet of a blower or pump.
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), appropriate
subclasses, for the subcombination of a rotary member having
a surface which is acted upon or sets upon a fluid, where the
claims are silent in regard to a means for confining or
directing a fluid to, from, or around the member, even though
such confining means be disclosed; and for the subcombination
of an impeller operable by the kinetic energy of a fluid
medium, even though disclosed as operated by the potential
energy or weight of the fluid, provided that no more than the
working member is claimed, i.e., the claim must include only
the minimum elements for an impeller as defined in Class
416.
417, Pumps, appropriate subclasses for a rotary pump* of the
positive displacement type in which transportation of the
working fluid* from a chamber or enclosure is caused by
decreasing the volume of the enclosure, such pump* being
claimed, per se, or combined with another pump* of any type;
for a pump* in which the runner is mounted for rotary motion
and cyclic axial reciprocation, even though it is of the
rotary nonexpansible chamber type; for a "black box" pump
shown as rotary if not of the expansible chamber type; for a
rotary pump* and a specific driving means therefor; see Lines
With Other Classes, (1) Note, A and B; for a chain pump of
the type comprising pistons mounted on a flexible or endless
drive member and in which a casing or housing surrounds and
tightly encompasses the pistons, thus forming an expansible
chamber pump, and elements (e.g., pistons) of such a pump.
(1) Note. Bucket Pumps (e.g., receptacles on an endless
chain or belt) which retain fluent to be moved to another
location will be found in Class 198, Conveyors:
Power-Driven.
(2) Note. Classes 91, Motors: Expansible Chamber Type, 417
Pumps, and 418, Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices, all
provide for an expansible chamber device (motor or pump)
which may be rotary, the distinction being on the nature of
the valving for the working fluid. For clear statements as to
the differences among these classes, see the line notes in
each class to the others.
418, Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices, appropriate
subclasses for a rotary motor or pump in which the moving
wall of an expansible chamber (1) produces a mechanical force
because of expansion of a simple fluid in the chamber
reacting against a fixed abutment, or (2) increases the
energy of a fluid in the chamber.
(1) Note. Classes 91, Motors: Expansible Chamber Type,
417, Pumps and 418, Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices, all
provide for an expansible chamber device motor or pump, which
may be rotary, the distinction being on the nature of the
valving for the working fluid. For clear statements as to the
differences among these classes see the line notes in each
class to the others.
454, Ventilation, appropriate subclasses, for a gas pump* in
combination with the enclosure to be ventilated and which is
specifically recited or which bears a specific relationship
with the pump*.
GLOSSARY:
The following terms or words, used throughout the titles and
definitions, are set forth with the meaning each is to have
in this class. Throughout this bulletin an asterisk (*)
following the work or term indicates that reference should be
made to this glossary for the specific meaning thereof.
BLADE
A working member on the runner which contacts the working
fluid. This member may variously be called a bucket, vane,
pocket or float in the art literature.
CASING
A member which cooperates with a runner member and provides a
flow path for the working fluid. This member may also be
called a curb in the art literature.
DISTRIBUTION MEANS
At least one member positioned in the working fluid flow path
and proximate to the runner to convey, guide, distribute or
direct the fluid immediately prior or subsequent to its
contact with the runner. Encompassed within this term is a
pipe, nozzle or vane.
MOTOR
Generally, an apparatus in which one form of energy is
changed so that mechanical power is obtained. Specifically
for this class, an apparatus for obtaining mechanical power
from the kinetic or potential energy in a fluid material
contacting a rotary member of the apparatus, as further
defined and limited herein.
PUMP
An apparatus used for adding energy to fluid material (gas or
liquid).
RUNNER
A member which is or which supports a means contacting a
working fluid, the member being mounted or supported so as to
be capable of unidirectional rotational or orbital movement
for at least one revolution or orbit (in the absence of
control means for limiting movement to part of a revolution
or orbit), the member being (1) caused to so move by the
kinetic or potential energy of the working fluid, or (2)
caused to move by some external force to increase the energy
(velocity, pressure or potential) in the working fluid by
transfer of kinetic energy from the member to the fluid.
This member may also variously be called a rotor, wheel,
piston or bucket wheel in the art literature.
SHAFT
A member which supports or mounts the runner for
unidirectional rotational or orbital movement, the member
being itself supported in bearings for rotational motion and
is connected to a work producing element when the runner is
caused to rotate by working fluid impinging thereon or to a
driving force so as to cause the runner to rotate and add
energy to work fluid.
VANE
A static partition member (which however may be selectively
adjustable to various positions) in the working fluid flow
path and shaped (often as an airfoil) to guide or direct
fluid flow. This vane member may also variously be called a
nozzle, intermediate, diffuser or diaphragm in the art
literature.
WORKING FLUID
A fluid material (gas or liquid) which contacts the runner
and causes it to move, or has energy added thereto by a
driven runner.
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
1
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process of ACQUISITION PROCUREMENT PLAN.
Subclass:
2.1
WITH MEANS FOR CONTROLLING CASING OR FLOW GUIDING MEANS IN
RESPONSE TO NATURAL FLUID CURRENT FORCE OR DIRECTION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device
comprising means for adjusting the position or effect of a
casing* or other working fluid* flow directing member which
means acts in accordance to the strength or orientation of a
flowing, unconfined, and natural working fluid such as a wind
or water stream.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
905 for a natural fluid current motor comprising a casing or
flow guiding means which is not controlled in response to
current force or direction.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), 9 for the
combination of an uncased runner (e.g., windmill, etc.) and a
guide vane attached thereto for adjusting the position of the
runner in a wind or fluid stream, and subclasses 31+ for
means for controlling an uncased runner in a wind or fluid
stream in response to noncyclic condition sensing.
Subclass:
3.1
Having specific features for water current:
This subclass is indented under subclass 2.1. Device
comprising structure particularly adapted to a natural water
current environment.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
7 for a device comprising a float supported or buoyant
runner.
Subclass:
4.1
Natural fluid current force responsive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 2.1. Device wherein
the adjusting means for the casing* or other working fluid*
flow directing member acts in accordance to the strength of
the flowing, unconfined, and natural working fluid.
(1) Note. A device comprising means for controlling a
casing or other flow guiding member in accordance to runner*
shaft* rotation speed is included in this and indented
subclasses provided the shaft speed is dependent on the
strength of the flowing natural current. However, for a
complete search for such subject matter, subclasses 30+
should be searched since those subclasses have not been
screened for such subject matter.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30 for a device comprising control means responsive to
noncyclic condition sensing of runner shaft rotation speed;
146 for a device including working fluid force responsive
vane* or flow control.
148 for other devices having flow regulating means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), subclass 41
for an uncased rotor with control means responsive to
relative natural fluid current velocity.
Subclass:
4.2
Vertical runner axis:
This subclass is indented under subclass 4.1. Device wherein
the runner's* axis of rotation is generally parallel to the
force of gravity acting on the working fluid*.
Subclass:
4.3
Axial flow runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 4.1. Device wherein
the working fluid* path to, through, and from the runner* is
predominantly parallel to the runner's axis of rotation.
Subclass:
4.4
Vertical runner axis:
This subclass is indented under subclass 2.1. Device wherein
the runner's* axis of rotation is generally parallel to the
force of gravity acting on the working fluid*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
4.2 for a device with means for controlling a casing* or
flow guiding means in response to natural fluid current
force, which device has a vertical runner axis.
Subclass:
4.5
Axial flow runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 2.1. Device wherein
the working fluid* path to, through, and from the runner* is
predominantly parallel to the runner's axis of rotation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
4.3 for a device with means for controlling a casing* or
flow guiding means in response to natural fluid current
force, which device has an axial flow runner.
Subclass:
5
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus in which the runner* comprises an endless,
elongated flexible member, e.g., a chain or belt, which
carries at least one blade* or which has a surface which
functions like a blade.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclass 702, for a conveyor
section of the bucket type which is particularly adapted to
convey liquid; e.g., a water elevator.
417, Pumps, subclass 320 for an endless chain pump
comprising serially arranged pumping chamber, i.e., an
endless chain having pistons or similar extension in a tight
fitting casing so that the space between each piston or other
obstruction and the inlet or outlet of the casing forms in
effect an expansible chamber.
Subclass:
6
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a container or conducting means for
liquid which is so supported for motion that it sequentially
(1) is immersed in a body of liquid, (2) retains a portion of
such liquid, (3) is raised out of the body of liquid and (4)
discharges such retained liquid, and repeats such sequence of
steps.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, 638 for an endless band or
belt of material adapted to dip into a liquid source, retain
the liquid thereon by capillarity or absorption, raise the
liquid and then discharge it by centrifugal force; and
subclasses 701+ for a device similar to that described above,
except that discharge is by means other than by centrifugal
force.
Subclass:
7
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a runner* or runner* sustaining means
which is intended during use to be supported by a liquid and
is buoyant in said liquid.
(1) Note. A ship or boat recited so nominally as to
preclude classification on its features is included under
this definition of float.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, 495 for motors having a buoyant working
member motivated by the vertical rise and fall of the surface
of a body of fluid.
417, Pumps, subclass 61, for a pump which is buoyantly
supported or which has its inlet or outlet buoyantly
supported.
Subclass:
8
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a driven runner which is submerged
wholly or partially in a fluid, and a means in the path of
the fluid current to or from the runner to guide or direct
the current, there being no conduit confining the fluid
current at the location of said means.
(1) Note. Included under this definition are outboard
motor-type propellers having a deflector or guide in the path
of the fluid from the propeller to change the course or
direction of the fluid to control the speed or direction of
the boat (e.g., trolling); also included are fan runners*
having directional guide vanes* spaced therefrom.
(2) Note. The means to guide and direct the current must be
in addition to the usual rudder for steering a boat.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
148 for means to affect the direction, amount, velocity or
whirl of the working fluid in a system where the fluid is
confined.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers) appropriate
subclasses for the runner, per se, in the absence of a
directing means.
440, Marine Propulsion, appropriate subclasses, for ship
structure combined with a propeller and a rudder.
Subclass:
9
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a member or element which is intended to
be mutilated, torn, broken, melted or destroyed so that it
can not be re-used, but must be replaced, while other members
remain in a usable condition.
(1) Note. Patents in this subclass usually are of the type
where an element fails on overspeed, to prevent destruction
of the entire unit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
173.4 and 174.4, for a bearing, seal, or liner member
positioned between a portion of the runner* and a static part
which bearing, seal, or liner is intended to be eroded,
abraded or permanently deformed.
Subclass:
10
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a control means reacting to the force of
the small generally circular fluid currents, or to the
electrical or magnetic force generated by motion of the
shaft* or an element associated there with in a fluid
atmosphere or in a magnetic field.
(1) Note. If any part of the generated fluid or electrical
force is used for a purpose other than the control means (as
claimed) it is considered to be specific load and is excluded
from this Class, see Main Class Definition, section III, (2)
Note, B.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
26 for a control means reacting to the force exerted by a
fluid whose velocity or pressure has been increased by the
runner* or other shaft* associated member.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
290, Prime-Mover Dynamo Plants, subclass 4 for a prime mover
dynamo plant comprising plural prime movers of the turbine
type and having means to control operation of the turbines in
response to electrical conditions, and subclasses 51-55 for a
prime-mover dynamo plant comprising a turbine or other fluid
motor and means to regulate the motor in response to
electrical conditions.
700, Data Processing: Generic Control Systems or Specific
Applications, subclasses 1-89 for data processing control
systems wherein the control system is claimed generically,
subclass 281 for control of fluid level or volume, subclasses
282-285 for flow control, and subclasses 287-290 for turbine
or generator control.
702, Data Processing: Measuring, Calibrating, or Testing, 45
for flow metering, and subclasses 50+ for fluid measurement.
Subclass:
11
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a fluid system downstream of a pump* and
having a branched passage leading back to the pump* inlet
with a means responsive to a characteristic or condition of
the fluid controlling the passage.
(1) Note. The characteristic or condition may be that of
the fluid upstream or downstream of the pump*.
(2) Note. Typical examples of characteristic or condition
of the fluid are pressure, velocity, density.
Subclass:
12
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a blade*, vane* or means to move the
blade or vane relative to a fixed point made of a plurality
of dissimilar metals to provide for movement of the blade or
vane upon variation in temperature.
Subclass:
13
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising (1) means to sense a condition which may
or may not occur, a change in such condition, a lack of such
condition, or a result of such condition, and a separate
control means for an apparatus part, the sensing means
causing or permitting operation of the separate control means
without the intervention of a human attendant, (2) means
mounted so as to rotate and assume various radial positions
in accordance with the rate of its rotation, and at a
predetermined rate, to operate a control means for an
apparatus part, or (3) means responding to a turning or
twisting motion of a rotating member to impose a control on
an apparatus part.
(1) Note. A timer clockwork or cyclical mechanism which
operates at predetermined intervals of time or motion is not
included under this definition of automatic control; a float
which has a portion thereof also acting as a valving element
is included under this definition; a check valve or similar
valve element which is directly responsive to fluid flow is
not included; a valve having connected thereto a separate
surface which responds to pressure is included.
(2) Note. The centrifugally actuated element must be one in
addition to the minimum required for the apparatus under the
class definition, i.e., a runner* and a means to direct
working fluid* to, from or through the runner*. Thus, a
centrifugally moved blade* or connecting means between the
blade* and its support is not proper subject matter under
this definition and will be found in subclasses 140+.
Subclass:
14
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus in
which the control function is initiated when the runner, its
housing or its supporting member has (1) made a predetermined
part of a cycle or number of cycles or (2) moved to a
predetermined point in space.
Subclass:
15
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus in
which the control function is initiated after a comparison
between a reference signal from a separate source and the
sensed condition.
Subclass:
16
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus in
which the control function is initiated at a predetermined
speed of a runner* in combination with means which may be
operated for testing purposes to initiate the control
function when the runner* is not operating at said
predetermined speed.
Subclass:
17
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus in
which the operation of the control means is caused or
permitted by means which senses and responds to two different
conditions.
(1) Note. Examples of different conditions are: speed,
temperature, pressure, attitude.
(2) Note. Speed of the moving motive member and the load
thereon (or resistance to movement) are directly related;
therefor speed and load are considered to be the same
condition.
(3) Note. Included under this definition is a sensing means
comprising a single element which can respond to plural
different conditions.
Subclass:
18
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus
comprising means to (1) cause an apparatus surface part which
is associated with a separate and distinct moving surface to
frictionally engage and control, retard or stop said moving
surface or (2) cause two members to either engage or
disengage to transmit or to prevent motion from one to the
other.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
123 for clutch or brake surfaces which are manually
actuated.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
477, Interrelated Power Delivery Controls, Including Engine
Control, for interrelated control between a motor* and a
transmission, clutch, or brake.
Subclass:
19
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus
comprising (1) a motor for initiating runner* rotation or (2)
a member for adjusting runner blade position, and in
combination with (1) or (2) a control means which responds to
a predetermined condition of operation to deactivate the
starter motor or to move the runner blades from the initial
starting position.
Subclass:
20
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus
comprising a control for the amount of working fluid flowing
in a confined path and for adjusting the position of another
element or part which does not affect such amount.
(1) Note. The amount of fluid flowing may be controlled by
a valve in the supply line, in a relief or bypass line, or in
the discharge line or tailgate.
(2) Note. Shifting the direction of discharge of the motive
fluid, or imposing a deflector element in the path of the
free jet, is not considered to be a control for the amount of
motive fluid flow.
Subclass:
21
This subclass is indented under subclass 20. Apparatus in
which the other element or part comprises (1) the runner*,
(2) any part thereof, or (3) its connection or support means
on a shaft.
Subclass:
22
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Apparatus in
which the element or part comprises a runner* which is
positioned between two sets of vanes*, one set guiding flow
to the runner*, the other set from the runner.*
(1) Note. The fluid flow guide vanes may themselves be
movable relative to a fixed member.
(2) Note. Many patents herein disclose the use of the
apparatus as either a turbine or a pump* the flow guide vanes
being movable to various positions to vary the working fluid*
velocity (turbine) or pressure (pump).
Subclass:
23
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus in
which the condition sensed is the angle at which the working
fluid* leaves a blade* or vane*.
Subclass:
24
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus in
which the condition sensed is the level of a liquid or the
weight effect of a mass of liquid to initiate the control
function.
Subclass:
25
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus
comprising a runner* or shaft* and means to regulate flow of
fluid in or through the runner* or shaft*, the regulating
function started as a result of centrifugal force.
(1) Note. The regulating means may be positioned within or
without the shaft* or runner*.
(2) Note. The regulating means may be subjected to the
centrifugal force or may be operated by another device
subjected to centrifugal force.
Subclass:
26
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus in
which the runner* or another means secured to and moving with
the runner supporting shaft acts on a fluid to increase its
velocity or its pressure and the sensing means responds to a
force exerted by the fluid after being acted upon by the
runner* or such other means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
175 for a separate, connected pump for circulating lubricant
and not involving automatic control.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
417, Pumps, 1 for a rotary kinetic fluid pump comprising a
working fluid condition responsive motor control; and
subclasses 279+ for a rotary kinetic fluid pump with a
working fluid condition responsive bypass.
Subclass:
27
This subclass is indented under subclass 26. Apparatus
comprising a driven runner and a branched fluid conduit
downstream of the runner, one branch leading to a point of
use for the fluid, the other branch being valved and
discharging to atmosphere when the valve is actuated as a
result of the sensing means responding to the force exerted
by the fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
11 for pumps and recirculation passages leading back to the
pump inlet in response to a means sensing or condition of the
working fluid.
Subclass:
28
This subclass is indented under subclass 26. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of runners or blade rows with a valve
so arranged as to permit at least a portion of the working
fluid either to pass through a runner or blade row or to be
bypassed around so as not to be acted upon by a blade row,
the valve actuated as a result of the sensing means
responding to the force exerted by the fluid.
Subclass:
29
This subclass is indented under subclass 26. Apparatus
comprising means to regulate the flow of working fluid* to
the runner* of a motor*.
(1) Note. Typical of the devices included under this
definition is a motor* in which a small pump* driven by the
shaft acts on a fluid, the pressure of which acts on a means
controlling flow of working fluid* to the motor.
Subclass:
30
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus in
which the control operation is initiated in response to a
predetermined rate of movement of the runner* or to a rate
proportional to such predetermined rate or to a twisting or
turning motion of a rotating member associated with the
runner* or shaft*.
Subclass:
31
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Apparatus
comprising a runner* having a blade* which is wrapped or
coiled at least 360 deg. around an axis.
(1) Note. The blade* may extend longitudinally or the edges
may all be in a plane.
Subclass:
32
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Apparatus
comprising in addition means actuated by a human attendant to
return the control system to a datum, point, to override or
prevent operation of the control system, or to otherwise
selectively modify or affect the operation of the control
system.
Subclass:
33
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Apparatus in
which a means for actuating a relatively movable runner*,
blade*, runner* support or part in which the runner* support
turns or revolves is controlled.
Subclass:
34
This subclass is indented under subclass 33. Apparatus in
which the runner*, blade*, shaft* or part in which the shaft*
turns or revolves is movable along the axis around which the
runner* normally moves during operation.
Subclass:
35
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Apparatus
comprising a nozzle discharging working fluid* towards the
runner* and in which the control means is a barrier movable
into and out of a position intercepting and redirecting the
working fluid*.
Subclass:
36
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Apparatus in
which the control operates a device which varies the quantity
of working fluid* flowing in a confined path or the position
of a vane* or other flow directing or guiding means.
Subclass:
37
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Apparatus in
which the means controlling the quantity of working fluid*
flowing is located intermediate a plurality or rows or series
of blades*, or within a passage which redirects the working
fluid* back to the same blade* or series of blades* from
whence it was discharged.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
11 for means to recirculate fluid back to a pump runner and
a control means therefor responsive to a condition or
characteristic of the working fluid.
52.1 for guide vanes or valves in re-entry or recirculation
passages where no automatic control is involved.
Subclass:
38
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Apparatus
comprising control means for a plurality of passages for flow
of working fluid*, said control means being operable to
permit flow serially through the passages or to permit flow
through one passage while shutting off flow through another.
Subclass:
39
This subclass is indented under subclass 38. Apparatus in
which said control means comprise a plurality of regulators
including one controlling the amount of working fluid*
discharged towards the runner* and another controlling the
amount of working fluid* discharged away from the runner*
prior to action on the runner*.
Subclass:
40
This subclass is indented under subclass 38. Apparatus
comprising a source of mechanical power caused to move by
virtue of a fluid acting thereon to operate said control
means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
43 for other valve actuators comprising a fluid servomotor
and pilot valve therefor controlled by a speed responsive
means.
Subclass:
41
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Apparatus
including disabling means which prevents operation of a flow
controlling means until the disabling means is moved or
caused to move from its disabling position.
(1) Note. Many of the patents in this subclass involve an
emergency stop valve which is latched in open position and an
emergency governor which at a predetermined speed, trips the
latch and permits the emergency stop valve to close.
Subclass:
42
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Apparatus in
which the actuator for the means controlling the quantity of
working fluid* or the position of a vane* includes the
runner* or a distinct and independent source of mechanical
power.
Subclass:
43
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Apparatus in
which the distinct and independent source of mechanical power
is a fluid actuated means which supplements and which is
actuated by fluid from a pilot valve controlled by the means
reacting to the rate of movement of the runner*.
Subclass:
44
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Apparatus
comprising means to direct or conduct a plurality of distinct
fluid streams onto the runner.
(1) Note. Included under this definition is a single
control regulating flow to a plurality of branches each of
which discharges onto the runner.
Subclass:
45
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Apparatus in
which the means lie in a plane which is normal to the runner
axis and passes through at least a portion of the runner
blade.
Subclass:
46
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Apparatus in
which the flow controlling member or the vane* is located in
the path of the working fluid* after the fluid has acted on
the runner.
Subclass:
47
This subclass is indented under subclass 13. Apparatus in
which the sensing means reacts to a predetermined force
exerted by a fluid or to predetermined temperature.
Subclass:
48
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Apparatus in
which the sensing means controls means which positively moves
or shifts the position of a runner, runner supporting shaft,
blade, or vane relative to other apparatus parts.
Subclass:
49
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Apparatus
comprising sensing means which reacts to the force exerted by
a fluid for controlling the flow of working fluid.
(1) Note. The sensing means may react to the force of
working fluid or another fluid for controlling working fluid
flow.
Subclass:
50
This subclass is indented under subclass 49. Apparatus in
which the sensing means reacts to fluid pressure to control
the flow of working fluid relative to two or more separate
and distinct runners.
(1) Note. The control means may comprise a single valve, or
a plurality of valves, for controlling flow to or from a
plurality of runners.
Subclass:
51
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a means driven or actuated independently
of the runner* to control the flow of working fluid* to or
from the runner* (1) in accordance with a predetermined
scheme of operation embodied in a physical form and not
involving the intervention of a human being other than to set
it in operation or (2) at a particular time of day or after a
predetermined delay period.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
137, Fluid Handling, subclass 624.11 for similar control of
a fluid distribution system but not involving a pump or motor
runner.
Subclass:
52.1
WITH MEANS FOR REENTRY OF WORKING FLUID TO BLADE SET (E.G.,
REENTRY TYPE DEVICE, PASSAGE, ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device
comprising means for directing working fluid* which has
previously contacted a first runner* blade* or blade row back
to the blade or blade row. The means comprises an
arrangement or shape of the blade(s) or an associated working
fluid flow guide or casing*.
(1) Note. Included in this subclass is a device wherein
significance is attributed to its being of a particular type
(e.g., regenerative turbine, side channel blower, cross flow
pump, etc.) or configuration, if the type or configuration
inherently operates to redirect working fluid back to a blade
or blade row; working fluid reentry need not be specifically
claimed in such instances.
(2) Note. A row (set) of blades comprises at least two
physically interrelated blades which cooperate with each
other to form a single composite structure against which the
working fluid may act. The blades of a row may be arranged
relative to each other to form any one of a variety of shapes
(e.g., circle, spiral, etc.) but usually comprise a single
circular annulus.
(3) Note. A single runner may have thereon a plurality of
rows (i.e., sets) of blades. For classification under this
definition, the working fluid must be directed to the same
row of blades it previously contacted. See subclasses 64,
66, 67, 93, 103, and 198.1+, for apparatus in which the
working fluid is directed to another row of blades after
contacting a first row.
(4) Note. A device merely comprising a closed container
with a pump which recirculates working fluid in the container
is not included in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
11 for a pump* comprising a passage means for the reentry of
working fluid to a runner, which means includes a passage
control means responsive to a condition or characteristic of
the working fluid.
37 for a device comprising means for the reentry of working
fluid to a runner, which means includes a working fluid
controlling valve responsive to the runner's shaft speed or
torque.
225 for a device having an exit chamber axially offset from
the runner which may permit some working fluid reentry to a
blade or blade set.
Subclass:
53.1
Cross flow runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.1. Device
comprising a runner* blade* row which forms a hollow
cylinder. The working fluid* in the device flows from a
position outside and on one side of the cylinder through the
blade row to a position inside the cylinder and then again
through the blade row to a position outside and generally on
the other side of the cylinder.
(1) Note. The working fluid* usually flows in a direction
perpendicular to the runner's axis of rotation.
(2) Note. Cross flow-type runners may also be referred to
as transverse flow runners.
Subclass:
53.2
Having vane or deflector within runner blade set:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53.1. Device
comprising a working fluid* guiding vane* or other means
which is positioned inside the blade row to guide working
fluid inside the blade row.
Subclass:
53.3
Having selectively adjustable vane or working fluid control
means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53.1. Device
comprising a working fluid* guiding vane* or other means
which may be moved positively and at will and may be retained
in any one of a multiplicity of different positions to vary
the direction or amount of working fluid flow.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
53.2 for a cross flow runner* device having a selectively
adjustable vane or deflector within a runner blade* set.
148 for a selectively adjustable vane or working fluid
control means in a nonreentry device.
Subclass:
54.1
To opposite face of blade:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.1. Device
wherein the working fluid* directed back to the blade* or
blade row is directed to a surface (i.e., face) of the blade
or blade row on the other (i.e., back) side of a surface
previously contacted by the working fluid.
(1) Note. In most instances, the arrangement under this
definition is for the purpose of slowing down the runner
since the redirected fluid acts on the blade in a direction
opposite to that in which the working fluid originally acts.
Subclass:
55.1
Turbine regenerative pump:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.1. Device
comprising a casing* having a ring shaped channel around the
runner's axis of rotation within and which the first runner
blade row rotates to add energy to working fluid* passing
through the channel (i.e., pump*). A (regenerative) portion
of the channel lies between a circumferentially spaced
working fluid channel inlet and outlet which portion (a) has
a significantly greater cross section than does the blade row
and (b) is configured to direct the working fluid along a
helical path out of and back into contact with the blade
row.
(1) Note. The channel is usually perpendicular to and along
an arc of constant radius centered upon the runner's axis of
rotation.
(2) Note. The working fluid must be directed back into
contact with a blade row by design. A device wherein working
fluid is incidentally directed back into contact with a blade
row (e.g., as in a centrifugal volute pump) is not included
in this subclass.
(3) Note. A regenerative turbine pump may also be referred
to as a vortex pump, a side channel blower, a ring channel
blower, etc.
Subclass:
55.2
Having specific means to deflect working fluid in
regenerative passage:
This subclass is indented under subclass 55.1. Device
wherein particular significance is attributed to a working
fluid* guiding vane* or other means which guides the working
fluid passing within the (regenerative) channel portion.
(1) Note. Working fluid flow guides positioned at the
working fluid entrance or exit to the (regenerative) channel
portion are included in this subclass.
Subclass:
55.3
Means extends parallel to passage:
This subclass is indented under subclass 55.2. Device
wherein the working fluid* directing or guiding means is
located within the (regenerative) channel portion and
generally extends coincidentally with (i.e., parallel to) the
channel portion.
Subclass:
55.4
Positioned at passage end (e.g., stripper seal, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 55.2. Device
wherein the working fluid* conducting, guiding, or
distributing means is positioned generally at a
circumferential limit (i.e., end) of the (regenerative)
channel portion.
(1) Note. A device having a stripper seal which prevents or
retards working fluid* from passing from the working fluid
outlet of the channel portion to the working fluid inlet of
the channel portion is included in this subclass.
Subclass:
55.5
Having plural, rigidly related blade sets:
This subclass is indented under subclass 55.1. Device
further comprising a second runner* blade* row which is
fixedly or unitarily associated with the first blade row.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
198.1 for a nonreentry device having plural, rigidly related
blade sets and see the search notes therewith.
Subclass:
55.6
Acting serially but nonalternating (e.g., multistage, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 55.5. Device
wherein the working fluid* contacts the first and second
blade* rows in sequence but wherein the working fluid* is not
acted upon by the first blade row, then by the second blade
row, and then again by the first blade row (i.e., alternating
blade row contact).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
199.1 for a device having plural, serial, radial flow blade
sets and an intermediate stationary flow diverter.
Subclass:
55.7
In separate regenerative passages:
This subclass is indented under subclass 55.5. Device
wherein the first and second blade rows pass through
(regenerative) portions of different channels.
(1) Note. The different channels may be interconnected at
certain locations such as at a common working fluid* exit or
entrance.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
55.6 for a regenerative turbine pump* having serially
acting, plural, rigidly related blade sets within separate
regenerative passages.
Subclass:
56.1
Pump priming means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.1. Device
comprising means for directing a portion of liquid working
fluid* to the first runner* blade* or row of blades, which
liquid portion has previously been acted upon by the blade or
row of blades (i.e., pump* devices). The means acts to
displace gaseous fluid (e.g., air, etc.,) in the device
replacing it with liquid working fluid (e.g., water, etc.).
(1) Note. The means usually functions exclusively during
the startup of the device in order to facilitate reaching
steady state operation.
Subclass:
56.2
Vertical runner shaft:
This subclass is indented under subclass 56.1. Device
comprising an axis about which the runner blade* or blade row
rotates, which axis is generally parallel to the force of
gravity acting on the working fluid.
Subclass:
56.3
Having plural and arcuately arranged vanes around runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 56.1. Device
comprising two or more vanes* or other working fluid*
directing means positioned about and radially outward of the
runner*.
Subclass:
56.4
Reentry through working fluid discharge passage for runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 56.1. Device
comprising a conduit through which the (reentry) working
fluid* portion is directed to the runner* blade* or blade
row, which conduit also serves to guide the working fluid
away from the runner blade or blade row.
(1) Note. The conduit usually directs the working fluid
reentry portion to the runner blade or blade row during pump*
startup (priming) and directs working fluid away from the
runner after priming has been completed.
Subclass:
56.5
Reentry working fluid joins inlet working fluid upstream of
runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 56.1. Device
wherein the means directs the (reentry) working fluid*
portion to a location where working fluid flowing to the
runner* has not yet been acted upon by the runner (i.e.,
upstream of the runner and prior to initial entry to the
runner), at which location the (reentry) working fluid
portion is merged with the working fluid flowing to the
runner.
Subclass:
56.6
Walled pumping chamber within liquid separation chamber:
This subclass is indented under subclass 56.1. Device
wherein the means comprises one area in which the pump*
runner* is located and a second area radially outward of and
radially enclosing the one area. The two areas are set apart
by one or more casing* partitions or walls. The second area
comprises means to remove or separate gas from the liquid
working fluid* discharged from the runner and means to return
the discharged liquid working fluid to the blade* or blade
row.
Subclass:
57.1
Plural, independent, serially acting reentry means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.1. Device having
two or more such (reentry) means each separately directing
working fluid* which has previously contacted the first
runner* blade* or blade row back to the blade or blade row.
The two or more means act in sequence (i.e., one after the
other) on the working fluid flowing through the device.
Subclass:
57.2
Having additional blade set in reentry path:
This subclass is indented under subclass 57.1. Device
comprising a second blade* row which contacts the working
fluid* after the first blade or blade row but before one of
the reentry means has directed the working fluid back to the
first blade or blade row.
Subclass:
57.3
Reentry from opposite sides of blade face:
This subclass is indented under subclass 57.1. Device
wherein two of the (reentry) means direct the working fluid*
back to the first blade or blade row from separate locations
which locations substantially confront (oppose) each other
across the blade or the blade row.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
54.1 for a device comprising means for directing (reentry)
working fluid to a face of the blade or blade row opposite
that face which was first contacted by the working fluid.
Subclass:
57.4
Reentry into blade in radial plane of blade:
This subclass is indented under subclass 57.1. Device
wherein one of the (reentry) means directs the working fluid*
into the blade* or blade row along a direction generally
contained in a plane perpendicular to the runner's* axis of
rotation which plane passes through the blade or blade row.
(1) Note. The (reentry) flow directed back to the blade or
blade row can be in any direction prior to being directed
into the blade or blade row.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
57.3 for a device having plural, independent, serially
acting means for the reentry of working fluid to a blade or
blade row wherein reentry is from opposite sides of a blade
face; such working fluid reentry may be in a radial plane
which passes through the blade or blade row.
Subclass:
58.1
Having additional blade set in reentry path:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.1. Device
comprising a second blade* row which contacts the working
fluid* after the first blade or blade row but before the
(reentry) means has directed the working fluid back to the
first blade or blade row.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
57.2 for a device having plural, independent, serially
acting reentry means one of which directs the working fluid
through an additional blade set after the working fluid has
contacted the first blade set but prior to the working fluid
being returned to the first blade set.
Subclass:
58.2
Radial flow runner portion guides reentry working fluid
(e.g., hub, back plate, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.1. Device
wherein the working fluid* flows through the runner* in a
direction predominantly inwardly toward or outwardly from the
runner's axis of rotation. The runner comprises a structure
which assists in directing the working fluid which has
previously contacted the blade* or blade row back to the
blade or blade row.
(1) Note. The structure which assists in directing the
working fluid back to the blade or blade row may comprise a
hub, back plate, shroud, etc., of the runner.
(2) Note. A circumferential or transverse (i.e., cross)
flow runner is not considered to be a radial flow runner for
the purposes of this and indented subclasses.
Subclass:
58.3
Runner inlet shroud:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.2. Device
wherein the runner* structure which assists in directing the
working fluid* back to the blade* or blade row comprises a
ring shaped rim member (shroud) centered about the runner's
axis of rotation and located at a working fluid entrance to
the runner.
(1) Note. The rim member (shroud) is usually carried on or
supported by a blade or blade row of the runner.
Subclass:
58.4
Reentry working fluid joins inlet working fluid upstream of
runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.1. Device
wherein the means directs the (reentry) working fluid*
portion to a location where working fluid flowing to the
runner* has not yet been acted upon by the runner (i.e.,
upstream of the runner and prior to initial entry to the
runner), at which location the (reentry) working fluid
portion is merged with the working fluid flowing to the
runner.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
56.5 for a pump device having priming means wherein reentry
working fluid joins inlet working fluid upstream of the
runner.
Subclass:
58.5
Axial flow runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58.4. Device
wherein the working fluid* flow to, through, and from the
runner is predominantly parallel to the runner's axis of
rotation.
Subclass:
58.6
Open recirculation from and to blade set:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.1. Device
wherein the (reentry) means directs the working fluid* from
and back to the blade* or blade row along a circulatory path
which lies entirely within an unconfined and unobstructed
(i.e., open, nonpassageway) area.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
53.1 for a cross flow runner incorporating a fluid vortex
which directs working fluid to and from a blade set in open
recirculation.
55.1 for a turbine regenerative pump which has open
recirculation of working fluid from and back to a blade set.
57.1 for a device having plural, serially acting, and open
recirculation means for the reentry of working fluid from and
back to a blade or blade set.
225 for a device having an exit chamber axially offset from
a runner which device may disclose structure which involves
some open recirculation of working fluid from and back to a
blade set.
Subclass:
58.7
Axial flow runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.1. Device
wherein the working fluid* flow to, through, and from the
runner* is predominantly parallel to the runner's axis of
rotation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
58.5 for a device having an axial flow runner wherein
reentry working fluid joins inlet working fluid upstream of
the runner.
Subclass:
59.1
Plural blade sets:
This subclass is indented under subclass 52.1. Device
comprising two or more blade* rows.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
55.5 for a turbine regenerative pump having plural, rigidly
related blade sets.
57.2 for a device having plural, independent, serially
acting working fluid reentry means for a blade or blade set
and an additional blade set in one of the reentry paths.
58.1 for a device having working fluid* reentry means to a
blade or blade set and an additional blade set in the reentry
path.
Subclass:
60
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising at least two runners*, each capable of
movement relative to the other on the same supporting member,
or each fixed to its own supporting member and moving
independently of the other.
(1) Note. Included under this definition is a device
comprising a plurality of runners*, any of which may be
selectively and alternately connected to the shaft* at any
one time, the other or others being held against rotation,
thus in effect comprising a casing* or stator* assembly, or a
pump* comprising a plurality of impellers, any of which can
be selectively fixed to the shaft* for rotation therewith or
left to free wheel on the shaft*, to vary the output and or
discharge pressure. For such a device as described above,
see subclass 61.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61 for apparatus which may have a plurality of runners* and
means to selectively connect and disconnect a runner* and its
supporting shaft*.
Subclass:
61
This subclass is indented under subclass 60. Apparatus
comprising an arrangement by which less than all the runners
may at will be (1) contacted by the working fluid* or (2)
drivingly associated with the input or output shaft.
(1) Note. Typically the arrangement may include a valve for
directing the working fluid* to or from a runner*, a clutch
mechanism to connect any runner* to or from a shaft*, or a
brake mechanism to frictionally engage and prevent the motion
of any runner.
(2) Note. Included under this definition is a pumping
arrangement wherein the runners* may selectively be changed
between a series and parallel system.
Subclass:
62
This subclass is indented under subclass 60. Apparatus
comprising at least two distinct and different types of
runners*, arrangements of blades* or directions of the
working fluid* flow paths across the runner*.
(1) Note. The different arrangements of blades may be on a
single runner; for example there may be a radial flow blade
system and an axial flow blade stream, both systems fixed to
and rotating on a single runner disc or hub.
(2) Note. Examples of different types of runners are:
reaction, impulse, radial flow, axial flow, spiral or
friction.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
81 for a runner* in which there is an interior flow path for
working fluid* extending to the periphery of the runner* and
discharging through a stream modifying orifice to cause
rotation due to reaction of the discharge and also having a
set of blades* on which the fluid discharging from the
orifice impinges.
84 for a runner* having radial flow along plural concentric
annular blade* series or rows and a peripheral blade* row of
the axial flow type.
143 for a device having a plurality of separate and distinct
runners*, in which the working fluid flows in or along one
runner* in a path distinctly different type than it follows
in at least one other runner*.
Subclass:
63
This subclass is indented under subclass 62. Apparatus
comprising at least one runner* having a interior flow path
for working fluid* extending to the periphery of the runner*
and discharging through a stream modifying orifice to cause
rotation of the runner in a direction opposite, and as a
result of the reaction to, the fluid discharge.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
25 for a reaction-type runner with a centrifugally,
automatically or torgue actuated valve member for the fluid
conduit.
80 for reaction-type runners*.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, 251 for a
reaction-type device for sprinkling, spraying or diffusing
the discharged fluid into the ambient atmosphere.
Subclass:
64
This subclass is indented under subclass 60. Apparatus in
which the working fluid flow path is generally radial and
contacts a plurality of annular blade* rows on said runners*,
the rows having a common center, each annular blade* row
having a radius different from the next adjacent annular
blade* row.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
83 for a single runner* having annular blade* rows on a
common radial plane.
Subclass:
65
This subclass is indented under subclass 60. Apparatus in
which the working fluid* flows along a path that is generally
axial and contacts a plurality of blade* rows on said
runners*, the rows having a common axis, the blades* of
adjacent rows extending in opposite directions from their
supports, the blades* of one row extending inwardly and the
blades* of another row extending outwardly, at least one row
of blades* extending into the spaces between the blades* of
the two next adjacent rows extending in the opposite
direction.
Subclass:
66
This subclass is indented under subclass 60. Apparatus in
which the runners* are spaced in the path of the working
fluid* and each succeeding runner* is acted upon by the fluid
which has left the runner* next upstream thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
64 for plural runners* supported for relative motion or on
separate shafts*, with working fluid* passing serially from
one to the other, the flow being radial through concentric,
radially spaced blade rows.
65 for plural runners* supported on separate shafts* or for
relative motion, the blades* being interdigitated, oppositely
extending, coaxially and axially spaced, the working fluid*
following an axial path.
Subclass:
67
This subclass is indented under subclass 66. Apparatus in
which each runner* has applied thereto a working fluid*
stream which has not acted on any other runner* these fluid
streams then acting on the next runner in any, in the flow
path.
Subclass:
68
This subclass is indented under subclass 66. Apparatus in
which the runners* rotate about the same axis.
Subclass:
69
This subclass is indented under subclass 68. Apparatus in
which one runner supporting member encircles or passes
completely around another supporting member.
Subclass:
70
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a runner* (1) which moves around an axis
while the axis is continuously moving its position relative
to a fixed support, (2) whose transverse face is oblique or
not perpendicular to the axis of the shaft* or (3) which
rotates around its axis while continuously rotating around
another fixed axis.
(1) Note. Examples of such motion are planetary or
nutating.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, 5 for gyroscopes as
defined in (1) Note therein.
Subclass:
71
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising (1) a blade* coiling around a runner* or
(2) a working fluid* conduit in the peripheral wall or
interior of a runner*, coiling around or through the runner*,
the blade* or conduit, while coiling, approaching or receding
from the runner* axis or advancing axially of the runner*,
and passing at least once completely around the runner*.
(1) Note. Under this definition the conduit must completely
limit the peripheral extent of the working fluid*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6 for a device having a liquid conduit of spiral form and
mounted in or on a runner* for sequential dipping into a
fluid source, elevating the fluid to a higher level while
retaining the fluid in the conduit and then discharging the
fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, 657, 724, 756+, and 778 for a
spiral conveyor in a loose casing so that no pressure
increase is attained in moving fluent material.
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), 176 for the
subcombination of the spiral blade* on a rotating shaft*
where no means are provided (e.g., flange) for retaining
material on the blade*.
Subclass:
72
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus in
which the blade* or conduit coils around the runner* axis
while advancing in a direction axially of the runner*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
168.3 for a device including means for handling working
fluid* leakage through a seal between a runner* or shaft* and
a static part which means comprises a screw-type pumping
seal.
Subclass:
73
This subclass is indented under subclass 72. Apparatus
comprising a working fluid* conduit.
Subclass:
74
This subclass is indented under subclass 72. Apparatus
comprising a surface, in addition to the coiled blade* or
conduit, for impingement of the working fluid* thereon.
(1) Note. The surface may be an integral part of the blade*
or may be fixed to the casing*.
Subclass:
75
This subclass is indented under subclass 72. Apparatus
comprising a motor runner* around which the blade coils.
Subclass:
76
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a runner* having a plurality of spaced
surfaces, the working fluid* passing through the spaces and
the surfaces being in the form of sinusoids or comprising
alternate ridges and grooves.
(1) Note. In order to qualify under this definition, the
working fluid* must travel a tortuous path through or against
the runner*. A runner* made of a complementary corrugated or
sinuous surfaces which, however, permits the working fluid*
to pass therethrough in a path which is not tortuous,
corrugated or sinuous is excluded under this definition.
Subclass:
77
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a runner* on which blades* are mounted
and project in rows radially inwardly and outwardly from both
circular peripheries of a ring member, the direction of
projection of the blades* being along a radial plane passing
between the member and the axis of a member supporting the
ring member, the blades* being arranged for passage of
working fluid* in a direction generally parallel to the axis
of the support member.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
60 for a similar runner* in combination with another runner*
of the same or different type and moving independently on the
same or another shaft*.
87 for a runner* having a plurality of concentric annular
series of blades* projecting axially from both sides of the
runner* face which is transverse to the axis of a runner*
supporting shaft*, working fluid* flow being generally in a
radial direction along the face.
Subclass:
78
This subclass is indented under subclass 77. Apparatus
comprising a means to chose at will the single row of
inwardly or outwardly extending blades* for traverse of the
working fluid*.
(1) Note. Typically, included herein are turbines, the
rotation of which is reversed by sending the working fluid*
through one or another of concentric blade* rows.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61 for plural runners* supported for relative motion or on
separate shafts* with means for selecting the runner* to
which working fluid* is passed.
Subclass:
79
This subclass is indented under subclass 77. Apparatus
comprising and arrangement on which the working fluid*, after
passing axially though the blades* on one of said peripheries
is passed to the blades* on the other of said peripheries for
axial flow therethrough.
Subclass:
80
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a runner* having an interior flow path
for working fluid* extending to the periphery of the runner*
and discharging through a stream modifying orifice to cause
rotation of the runner* in a direction opposite and as a
result of the reaction to, the fluid discharge.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
25 for a similar reaction jet discharge runner* with means
to control flow of working fluid* through the internal
working fluid passage by automatic, centrifugally actuated or
torque responsive, means.
63 for a similar runner* with another runner* of the same or
different type moving independently on the same or a
different shaft*.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, 251 for
similar-type reaction devices for sprinkling, spraying or
diffusing the discharged fluid into the ambient atmosphere,
unless reversing is disclosed and see section IV, Class 239
for further statement of the line.
Subclass:
81
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Apparatus
comprising a set of blades* mounted on the runner* and acted
upon by the fluid discharging from the orifice.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
63 for apparatus comprising a reaction- type runner* and a
set of fluid impingement blades* in an arrangement which
includes a plurality of runners* mounted for movement
relative to each other or on separate shafts* for movement
independent of each other.
Subclass:
82
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Apparatus
including a means to vary selectively the direction, or rate
of movement of the runner*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
25 for a similar runner* and a centrifugally automatically
or torque actuated, member for the control of the working
fluid* and therefore the rate of movement of the runner*.
Subclass:
83
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a runner* having thereon a plurality of
series or rows of blades* or passages, the plurality all
lying on a common plane transverse to the runner* axis and
having a common center and each series or row being on a
radius different from the next adjacent series.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
64 for a similar runner* in combination with another runner*
of the same or different type and moving independently on the
same or another shaft*.
77 for a runner* having a plurality of concentric annular
series of blades*, the working fluid* flowing along the
blades* in a direction parallel to the axis of the support
member, the blades* extending radially inward and outward
from a common ring member.
Subclass:
84
This subclass is indented under subclass 83. Apparatus
comprising a series of blades* on the peripheral edge of the
runner*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
62 for plural runners* supported for relative motion or on
different shafts* in which there maybe a radial flow blade*
system and an axial flow peripheral blade* system.
Subclass:
85
This subclass is indented under subclass 83. Apparatus
having a means by which the direction or rotation of the
runner* may be changed.
Subclass:
86
This subclass is indented under subclass 83. Apparatus
comprising blades* projecting axially from the radial side
wall extending inward of the peripheral rim of more than one
runner* or from more than one side wall of a single runner
inward from its peripheral rim.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
62 64 and 65, for plural runners* mounted for independent or
relative motion and having similarly extending blades*, with
or without the blades* of one runner* interleaving with those
of another.
Subclass:
87
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Apparatus in
which the blades* extend axially from both sides of a common
wall.
Subclass:
88
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a driven revolving runner* of tubular
construction and having an open end which may be of funnel
shape, submerged below the surface of a body of liquid.
Subclass:
89
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a driven rotating runner* comprising a
hollow rotating fluid receptacle (e.g. drum, cylinder) having
an inlet port or passage at or near its axis of rotation and
an outlet port in its peripheral wall, the rotary motion of
said receptacle causing the fluid to be inducted through the
inlet port or passage into the interior of the receptacle and
to leave said receptacle through the outlet port.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
494, Imperforate Bowl: Centrifugal Separators, appropriate
subclasses, for apparatus and process for breaking up a
mixture of fluids or fluent substances into two or more
components by centrifuging within a generally solid-walled,
receptacle-like member.
Subclass:
90
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a runner* wall having an even,
substantially uninterrupted or bladeless* surface over which
the working fluid* flows, the friction of the contact layer
between the runner* and the fluid being the only cause of
motion of the runner* or of the fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, subclass 643, for an endless
belt or chain-like member adapted to lift a viscous fluid
from a body thereof as a result of the property of the fluid
to adhere to the member.
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), subclass 4
or a rotary skin friction-type rotor having a smooth
substantially uninterrupted skin surface which contacts fluid
such that reaction between the rotor and the fluid occurs
solely as a result of friction, in the absence of a claimed
casing* or other fluid distributing means*.
Subclass:
91
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a runner* of annular form, having a
blade* on the inner periphery of the annulus and extending
inwardly radially.
(1) Note. Included herein are arrangements wherein the
runner* surrounds the casing*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88 for a pump* runner* having a rotating inlet end immersed
in the fluid to be pumped and which may comprise a rotating
annulus with inwardly radially extending blade*.
89 for a centrifugal bowl pump comprising a rotating runner*
bowl like form with inwardly radially extending blade*.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), subclass 195
for a runner member comprising a peripheral rim connecting
working members.
Subclass:
92
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus in which a runner* is caused to rotate by action of
working fluid* thereon comprising a cavity or chamber in the
runner* fully closed or bounded by walls (runner* or casing*)
and trapping working fluid* delivered thereto until the
pocket registers with an exhaust conduit to discharge the
working fluid* therefrom.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, subclass 39.44 for a turbine of this type
included in a power plant there classified.
Subclass:
93
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising an arrangement whereby the working
fluid* enters or leaves the runner* member or members in a
plurality of axially directed paths, at least two of such
paths being towards each other or away from each other, in
order that the force of fluid acting in an axial direction on
the runner* be balanced or neutralized, at least in part, by
the force of fluid acting in the opposite axial direction.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
77 for devices in which the working fluid* travels axially
along one set of blades* attached to a peripheral wall and
may then return in the opposite direction along blades*
attached to the opposite side of the same peripheral wall.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), subclass 199
for a fluid reaction surface (e.g., Impeller or runner) which
comprises multiple axially spaced working members or blades
and a radially extending plate or deflector which causes the
working fluid to enter or leave the working members in
axially opposed paths.
Subclass:
94
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Apparatus
comprising a means whereby the amount or direction of the
working fluid* may be selectively changed or adjusted.
Subclass:
95
This subclass is indented under subclass 94. Apparatus in
which the apparatus is a motor*.
Subclass:
96
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Apparatus
comprising an additional member connected to and moving with
the runner* support, which member includes an area exposed
and subjected to the force imposed by a fluid and acting to
balance or neutralize, at least in part, the axial thrust
transmitted to the runner* support by the force of the
working fluid* acting on a runner*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
104 for devices having shaft* connected surfaces subject to
a fluid force to balance or neutralize end thrust, these
devices not having axially opposed fluid paths to or from a
runner* member or members.
Subclass:
97
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Apparatus in
which the runner* member is moved by a force and acts to
increase the velocity, head or pressure of a fluid on which
the runner* acts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
120 for a pump* runner* in which the working fluid* enters
radially and discharges axially.
Subclass:
98
This subclass is indented under subclass 97. Apparatus in
which the runner* member comprises a substantially transverse
radially extending wall encircling the shaft* and having one
each side thereof a plurality of blades* which project in
opposed directions along the axis.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
77 for a runner* comprising an axially extending circular
wall encircling the runner*, shaft*, said wall having runner*
blades* extending radially from each side thereof.
Subclass:
99
This subclass is indented under subclass 97. Apparatus
comprising two or more runner* members secured to a driven
shaft*, each member in a separate radial plane through the
shaft*.
Subclass:
100
This subclass is indented under subclass 99. Apparatus in
which the fluid is directed in succession through two or more
runner* members.
Subclass:
101
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Apparatus in
which the fluid is divided into at least two separate and
distinct streams, each of which moves along and acts on the
runner* member or members at the same time as the other.
Subclass:
102
This subclass is indented under subclass 101. Apparatus in
which the fluid streams flow in axial paths that are directed
towards each other and a single discharge opening, the
streams combining in the discharge.
Subclass:
103
This subclass is indented under subclass 101. Apparatus in
which each fluid stream traverses or impinges a plurality of
blades* spaces in a direction along the axis.
Subclass:
104
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a member whose area is exposed and
subjected to a fluid* force and so associated with a runner*
support that the said force tends to balance and neutralize,
at least partly, the axis thrust developed by the working
fluid* on the supported runner*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
96 for similar devices having similar balancing surfaces
acted upon by a fluid however, also having axially opposed
fluid* paths to or from the runner* means, the fluid* paths
also acting to counterbalance end thrust.
Subclass:
105
This subclass is indented under subclass 104. Apparatus in
which the member is positioned in a chamber into which a
fluid, separate and apart from that used as the working
fluid*, is admitted.
Subclass:
106
This subclass is indented under subclass 104. Apparatus in
which there is a fluid force acting in an axial direction on
one side of a member, a blade* being supported on the other
side of the member.
(1) Note. Subject matter under this definition typically
includes radial flow-type runners* in which there are
passages to communicate fluid to the rear side of the
transverse blade* support disc to balance axial thrust acting
on the front side of the disc.
(2) Note. Excluded under this definition is a runner*
having a blade* on each side of a common wall or shroud
plate, for which search subclass 198.1, unless a port
transfers fluid from one side of the wall or plate to the
other.
(3) Note. To qualify under this definition, there must be
provided means for conveying the fluid to the rear side of
the runner*, e.g., a port conduit or axially moving runner*;
the mere presence of leakage fluid on the rear side of the
runner*, even though disclosed for thrust balancing, is
excluded under this definition.
Subclass:
107
This subclass is indented under subclass 104. Apparatus in
which the runner* support is that in a fluid motor*.
Subclass:
108
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a casing* and a shell or cover, the
latter surrounding and spaced from the casing*, the working
fluid* having access to the space between the casing* and
shell.
(1) Note. Typically the space between the casing* and shell
permits thermal expansion of parts of the apparatus or heat
exchange between the working fluid* in the space and parts of
the apparatus.
Subclass:
109
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a chamber into which the shaft* extends
and which is substantially sealed around the shaft* and which
contains a fluid acting to prevent leakage of fluid along the
shaft*, there being an abutment surface connected to and
rotating with the shaft* and serving to maintain the sealing
fluid in the chamber in motion.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
277, Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing
means or process (e.g., seal between a runner* and another
relatively movable part, seal between the two relatively
moving members, does not recite enough details of the rotary
kinetic device, etc.), 427 for a dynamic close proximity
seal (e.g., contactless, fluent, etc.) having an impeller or
another rotating member to form a centrifugal liquid
barrier.
Subclass:
110
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a fluid path between the normal working
fluid* path and the interior part of an assembly which is
positioned between two relatively moving apparatus parts
(e.g., casing*, shaft*) the assembly service to (1) reduce or
prevent unwanted working fluid* leakage between the parts, or
(2) reduce the friction between the parts.
(1) Note. If the fluid path originates outside of the
system or with a nonsystem fluid, it must discharge into the
working fluid* path; if the working fluid* is the source for
the seal, packing, lubricating or bearing assembly, it may
then discharge outside of the system.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
142 170.1+ and 229+, for other types of bearing or seals but
not having a connection with the working fluid* path.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, 5 for runners supported in
bearings for gyroscopic action and for a statement of the
line see reference to Class 74 in section IV of the Main
Class Definition of Class 415.
277, Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing
means or process (e.g., seal between a runner* and another
relatively movable part, seal between the two relatively
moving members, does not recite enough details of the rotary
kinetic device, etc.), 345 for a seal between relatively
movable parts (i.e., a dynamic seal).
Subclass:
111
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Apparatus in
which the assembly is positioned between the runner* support
member (shaft*) and a relatively fixed member.
(1) Note. Excluded under this definition is a conduit
merely returning fluid which has leaked past a seal, bearing
or packing to the working fluid*; such devices will be found
in subclasses 168.1+ and 169.1+.
Subclass:
112
This subclass is indented under subclass 111. Apparatus in
which the assembly is provided with two openings, one
providing for ingress and the other for egress of the fluid.
Subclass:
113
This subclass is indented under subclass 111. Apparatus in
which the assembly is provided with a part which is (1) acted
upon and movable towards an extreme position by the force
exerted by a fluid, (2) supported for movement to any of a
plurality of selected positions, or (3) made of a yielding
material which can regain its original shape after being
deformed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
132 for a movable bearing on which an end of the shaft* is
supported and which serves to axially adjust the shaft*.
Subclass:
114
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising means for transferring heat to or from
an apparatus part which means includes a container for a
medium which is capable of changing its physical state from
or to solid, liquid or gas and in so changing transfers heat
between itself and the apparatus part.
Subclass:
115
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a fluid connection between the working
fluid* path and a fluid conducting path in a runner* blade*,
a stator vane*, the runner* support (shaft*) or a member
turning in the working fluid* path and discharging fluid
across substantially the entire area of the working fluid*
path.
(1) Note. The fluid* path in the blade*, vane*, shaft* or
rotary member may be connected to a source of nonsystem fluid
for passage into the working fluid* path.
(2) Note. The fluid circuit may be for any purpose;
included are devices for boundary layer control or for
heating or cooling a runner* blade* or stator vane*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
116 for a device comprising a diversely oriented inlet or an
additional inlet for diverse fluid, which may be for cooling
fluid.
180 for a device in which cooling fluid contacts the
exterior of a shaft*, seal or bearing.
914 for a device including means to control a working fluid
boundary layer.
Subclass:
116
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus provided with (1) means to admit a fluid differing
from the working fluid* in some essential characteristic
(e.g., temperature, pressure, composition), or (2) at least
two inlet means admitting the same working fluid* into the
apparatus, one inlet means different from the other in some
essential characteristic, (e.g., size, attitude or position
relative to a fixed point or axis).
(1) Note. In order to qualify under this definition, the
diverse inlets or the diverse fluid must enter the apparatus
upstream of all disclosed runner* stages.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
115 for means including a passage in a runner* blade,
stator, vane*, shaft* or rotary distributor for adding either
working fluid* or a diverse fluid to the working fluid*.
144 for a device in which one of a plurality of diverse
fluid is caused to enter downstream of the initial runner*
stage.
Subclass:
117
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Apparatus
comprising a motor* to which a plurality of diverse fluids
are admitted upstream of all the disclosed runner* stages.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
180 for a device in which a diverse fluid cools the shaft*,
seal or bearing by contact and in which the diverse fluid
does not impinge on any of the runner* stages.
Subclass:
118
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising means other than fixed exhibitors (e.g.,
signs) which determine, or give information about, a
condition or characteristic of the apparatus, or permit
viewing of a condition or extent of motion of the apparatus
or a part thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, 861.79 for the subcombination of
a rotary motor directly connected to a registering or
indicating means and see the Class Definition, References to
Other Classes, above, for the reference to Class 73 for a
statement of the line.
116, Signals and Indicators, appropriate subclasses, for a
mechanical device for giving a signal of the nature of either
an alarm or an indicator.
340, Communications: Electrical, appropriate subclasses, for
an electrical signal, per se.
Subclass:
119
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising means or a disposition of parts to
eliminate, reduce or prevent the formation or transmission of
sonic or oscillatory waves from the apparatus to the
environment or between parts of the apparatus.
(1) Note. Examples of such means are: sound traps, nozzle
shapes, absorbent material.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, appropriate subclasses, for a fluid motor*
combined with means treating or handling the exhaust fluid
for absorbing or damping sound or vibratory waves, see the
Class Definition, References to Other Classes, above, Class
60, Power Plants, (8).
181, Acoustics, 200 for the sound muffler or sound filter
subcombination, per se.
Subclass:
120
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a pump* in which the working fluid*
initially enters the casing* at the periphery and is
discharged through a central opening in an axial direction,
the runner* forcing the working fluid towards the center of
the axis of rotation.
(1) Note. In order for a multistage pump* to be included
under this definition the working fluid* must, in at least
one stage, enter the periphery of the runner* and leave at or
near the center.
Subclass:
121.1
WITH CUTTER OR COMMINUTOR FOR DEBRIS IN WORKING FLUID:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device
comprising means to chop, sever, grind, or otherwise
pulverize or reduce in size, elements carried along by the
working fluid*.
(1) Note. The means usually acts on the elements to avert
jamming of the device by the elements.
(2) Note. The means may include part of a runner* or runner
blade*.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration,
appropriate subclasses, for a rotary pump* with comminuting
structure which is separate and distinct from the pump runner
and the surrounding casing*, such as subclass 46.012, for a
comminutor in a dishwasher pump, or subclass 185.6, for a
rotary striking member type comminutor with a pump. Refer to
the Class 415 Definition line notes for further explanation
of class lines.
Subclass:
121.2
WITH SEPARATING MEANS OR GUARD FOR SOLID MATTER IN WORKING
FLUID (E.G., DEBRIS, ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device
comprising (a) means to divide out solid elements carried
along by the working fluid* from the working fluid or (b)
means to shield or protect part of the device from solid
elements in or carried along by the working fluid.
(1) Note. Elements carried along by the working fluid which
are separated from the working fluid may include dust, sand,
pieces of the device which have entered the working fluid as
a result of structural failure, etc.
(2) Note. A means which shields a part of the device from
human hands is included in this subclass.
(3) Note. A means which merely separates moisture or
condensate from working fluid in the device is not included
in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9 for a device having a destructible, nonreuseable part
which may cause debris to enter the working fluid and further
having means to guard the device against such debris.
169.1 for a device including means for handling a portion
separated from the working fluid, particularly subclasses
169.2+ wherein moisture or liquid is separated from a gaseous
working fluid (e.g., condensate removal).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), subclass 247
for an impeller having a protective screen or guard.
Subclass:
121.3
COMBINED:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device
comprising a runner* in combination with features not
provided for above or in any other subclass, such features
excluding means for the device's associated working fluid*
distribution or control, casing* or housing structure, motion
transmitting structure to or from the runner and its support
shaft*, packing, bearing, or sealing assembly structure, and
heat exchanging structure.
(1) Note. Examples of combined features include: an art
device (other than a conducting means for the working fluid)
serving as a support means or otherwise associated with the
apparatus, a portable torge, a well packer or plug sealing
the outside of a pump* casing to a surrounding conduit, etc.
(2) Note. See the main class definition for lines between
this and other classes in regard to certain combined
features.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
122.1 for a device comprising specific shaft* transmission
train, brake, clutch, or attendant actuated drive means.
169.1 for a device including means for handling a portion
separated from the working fluid, particularly subclass 169.2
wherein moisture or liquid is separated from a gaseous
working fluid (e.g., condensate removal, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, appropriate subclasses, especially subclass 101,
118+, 141, 142+, and 173 for the subcombination of a packer,
an expanding anchor or a well screen. For a more detailed
statement of the line, see the class definition of Class 166,
Wells.
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), subclass 5
for illumination means combined with a runner where no
confining or directing means for the fluid is claimed.
Subclass:
122.1
INCLUDING SHAFT TRANSMISSION TRAIN, BRAKE, CLUTCH, OR
ATTENDANT ACTUATED DRIVE MEANS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device
comprising (a) means to transmit motion between a runner* or
runner shaft* and a driven or driving shaft and including
means for causing or permitting relative motion or speed
between the runner or runner shaft and the driven or driving
shaft, (b) means to retard, stop, or prevent movement of a
runner or its shaft, (c) means to connect or disconnect a
runner or runner shaft with a driven or driving shaft, or (d)
means operated by a human or animal to cause movement of a
runner.
(1) Note. Excluded under this definition are means whereby
the motion between the shafts is transmitted without the
possibility of relative motion. Thus a flanged coupling is
not included, but a flexible cone, spit pulley, belt gearing,
universal joint coupling, and other such similar couplings or
trains are included.
(2) Note. Excluded under this definition is a mere
shiftable nozzle or pipe for discharging a working fluid*
onto the runner. To qualify under this definition, the means
for braking must be in addition to the means discharging
working fluid onto the runner.
Subclass:
123
This subclass is indented under subclass 122.1. Apparatus
comprising means to (1) connect or disconnect the runner*
supporting shaft* to a driven or driving shaft* or (2)
retard, stop, or prevent movement of the runner* or its
supporting shaft*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
18 for clutch or brake devices which are controlled by means
responsive to non-cyclic condition sensing, centrifugal
actuation, or torque.
61 for plural runners* mounted for relative or independent
movement and means, which may be a clutch means, for
connecting a runner* to the shaft*.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
477, Interrelated Power Delivery Controls, Including Engine
Control, for interrelated control between a motor* and a
transmission, clutch, or brake.
Subclass:
124
This subclass is indented under subclass 122.1. Apparatus in
which a human or an animal actuates (1) an arm bent or keyed
at right angles to a shaft to impart motion thereto, (2) a
treadle connected to and imparting motion to a shaft, or (3)
a ground engaging rotating member connected to and imparting
motion to a shaft, the shaft in all cases ultimately
imparting motion to the runner* shaft*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
5 for an endless flexible member such as a chain on which
there is mounted a blade* or a surface which acts like a
blade* to pump* fluid, the chain operated by a human or an
animal.
Subclass:
124.1
Runner supported portion engages shaft transmission train
(e.g., peripheral gear drive, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 122.1. Device
comprising a means to transmit motion between a runner* and a
driven or driving shaft which means causes or permits
relative motion or speed between the runner and the shaft.
The means includes a motion transmitting element which is
carried on the runner.
(1) Note. A runner shaft is not considered to be a portion
of the runner for purposes of this subclass. Thus, a shaft
transmission train which merely incorporates a motion
transmitting gear which is carried on a shaft* which supports
the runner for rotation is not included in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
91 for a device having an annular runner* with an inwardly
projecting blade* which may include peripheral gear drive
means.
Subclass:
124.2
Shaft transmission train having flexible means or coupling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 122.1. Device
comprising means to transmit motion between a runner* and a
driven or driving shaft* which means causes or permits
relative motion or speed between the runner and the shaft.
The means includes (a) a motion transmitting means which, by
design, bends or otherwise exhibits nonrigid properties or
(b) a driving connection between two motion transmitting
elements of the means which allows nonrigid movement of the
two elements relative to one another (i.e., a fixed movement
of one element does not continuously correspond to a fixed
movement of the other element).
(1) Note. A device wherein the means to transmit motion
comprises a motion transmitting shaft which is coupled to
another motion transmitting shaft by a flexible joint (e.g.,
U-Joint) is included in this subclass.
(2) Note. A friction, fluid, or magnetic coupling which
connects two motion transmitting elements nonrigidly is
included in this subclass provided the coupling does not
serve to connect and disconnect the two motion transmitting
means. The latter coupling type is a clutch (see subclass
123).
(3) Note. A driving connection between two motion
transmitting elements which permits nondrive related movement
between the elements is included in this subclass (e.g., two
intermeshing gears rotating about parallel axes which are
permitted to move axially relative to each other without
affecting the drive relationship).
(4) Note. A motion transmitting means comprising two
conventional gears in direct driving relationship is not
included in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
123 for a device having means to connect and disconnect the
runner supporting shaft with the driven or driving shaft.
Subclass:
125
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus having a means to impart regularly recurring
movement to an element of the apparatus.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
141 for a runner* blade* portion which is pivotally mounted
for regularly occurring self-feathering motion.
Subclass:
126
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising means for positively and at will holding
the runner* enclosing housing, or a part thereof, in a
selected one of a plurality of different positions in
relation to a means on which the apparatus is sustained.
(1) Note. The sustaining or supporting means for the
apparatus need not be claimed for this and the indented
subclasses, if it is clear from the disclosure that the
adjustment is relative to such a sustaining means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
14 for control means responsive to the position of a
casing*, runner* or shaft*.
Subclass:
127
This subclass is indented under subclass 126. Apparatus in
which the runner* enclosing housing may be moved about an
axis coincident with the runner* axis in order to position
the inlet or outlet in any of a plurality of different
angular positions.
Subclass:
128
This subclass is indented under subclass 126. Apparatus in
which the member moved is on the inner periphery of the
housing, such member being in addition to the normal wall of
which the housing is comprised.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
196 for a nonadjustable casing casing* liner.
Subclass:
129
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising means for positively and at will holding
the runner* or a blade* in a selected one of a plurality of
different positions in relation to the runner* enclosing
housing during operation.
(1) Note. Included under this definition is means to
axially move the shaft* on which a runner* is fixedly
secured.
Subclass:
130
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of runners*, or a plurality of blades*
on a single runner*, each member of such plurality movable
selectively to different positions around an axis with
respect to the remaining members, and retained in any of the
positions.
Subclass:
131
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus in
which the runner* or blade* is moved along the axis to its
new position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
34 for devices in which the shaft* or bearing is adjusted
along the runner axis by automatic speed or torque responsive
means.
Subclass:
132
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Apparatus in
which an end of the runner* support shaft* is supported on a
member on which it turns or revolves and the member may be
adjusted to move the shaft* axially.
Subclass:
133
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. Apparatus
comprising means to move the runner* shaft* along a plane
transverse to the axis.
(1) Note. Typically, this subclass includes bearings
supporting the shaft* with means to adjust the bearings
radially, the bearings carrying the shaft* to the adjusted
position.
Subclass:
134
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus in which two or more apparatus parts are joined by
means which allow at least one of said parts at the location
of the joint to move in a selected direction (i.e., expand or
contract) as a result of temperature change without being
twisted or bent from its normal shape.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
35 for devices having a housing spaced from the casing*, the
space open to working fluid, the housing and casing usually
being free to move relative to one another as a result of
temperature changes.
Subclass:
135
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Apparatus in
which the means comprises a member which may be deformed and
which thereafter tends to return to its normal shape and size
when the deforming stress is removed.
(1) Note. Most of the patents under this definition include
a spring or similar elastic member backing up a part subject
to thermal expansion so that such expansion is taken up by
the spring.
Subclass:
136
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Apparatus in
which the selected direction is transverse to the axis of the
runner* shaft*.
Subclass:
137
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Apparatus
comprising an inner annulus, an outer annulus of greater
radius, with a vane* fixed to one annulus and extending
radially to the other, there being a complementary opening
provided in the other annulus, through which the end of the
vane* moves on expansion or contraction due to temperature
changes.
Subclass:
138
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Apparatus in
which movement may also occur in a direction parallel to the
axis of the runner* shaft* or angularly around such axis.
Subclass:
139
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of portions of fluid directing
members, said portions extending angularly around and
radially spaced from the axis of the runner* support member,
said portions having their edges normally spaced from each
other whereby dimensional changes due to temperature changes
cause such edges to approach or retreat towards or away from
each other along the periphery.
Subclass:
140
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising (1) a blade* or a portion thereof which
is formed or mounted so as to move relative to its support or
a fixed position, (2) the runner* or its shaft* mounted to
move in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation from one
position to another, while in use and without the
intervention of a human attendant.
(1) Note. Examples of devices included under this
definition are: one which is buoyed up by the working fluid*
(usually water acting on a surface associated with a turbine)
to reduce friction on the lower step bearing, one in which a
portion of the blade* has a fluid operated valve thereon and
one in which the blade* is regularly and cyclically
self-feathering.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
106 for a device in which the runner* is mounted for slight
axial movement to vary flow into and out of balancing chamber
to neutralize end thrust on the shaft*.
125 for a device having means to impart regular and cyclical
movement to a blade*.
126 for devices in which there are means provided to
positively selectively move or hold in a selected position
the blade*, runner* of shaft*.
129 for a device having means for positively and selectively
moving a runner* or runner supporting shaft*.
Subclass:
141
This subclass is indented under subclass 140. Apparatus
comprising a blade* having a resilient connection to its
support or having a pivot intermediate its length or formed
of resilient material.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
125 for a device having means to impart regularly recurring
movement to a blade* or a portion thereof.
Subclass:
142
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a runner* supporting shaft* within and
spaced from a casing* and having a member in which the shaft*
turns or revolves and is supported, there being legs or other
supports extending between the member and the casing* wall.
(1) Note. Some of the legs or other support members may act
to guide or direct the fluid.
Subclass:
143
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising two or more separate and distinct
runner* members, the working fluid* passing through one of
the runners* in a path of a distinctly different type than
the path it assumes in passing through another of said
runners* (e.g., axial and centrifugal working fluid* paths).
(1) Note. The separate and distinct runner* member must be
removed as a recognizable runner* subassembly handled as a
unit during assembly of the whole device, leaving the other
runner* to function as usual. A centrifugal impeller, for
example, having blades* which are formed to provide for flow
in another path, but which blades* cannot be removed unless
destroyed, is excluded under this definition.
(2) Note. Centrifugal and Centripetal flows are considered
to be the same type of flow path under this definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
62 for an apparatus comprising plural runners* mounted for
independent or relative movement and in which there are at
least two distinctly different runners*, arrangements of
blades* or directions of the working fluid* flow paths.
Subclass:
144
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a path for a portion of the working
fluid* from the inlet upstream of the runner* through the
apparatus, which path includes less than all of the blade*
row on the runner* (i.e., less than all runner* stages).
(1) Note. In order to qualify under this definition, there
must be means specifically provided to cause the bypass a
device having a path for working fluid* which has leaked past
a joint and does not include all of the runner* stages is not
classified in this group of subclasses, but will be found in
subclass 168.1.
(2) Note. Included under this definition is a device
comprising a plurality of runner* stages and (1) a plurality
of diverse working fluids*, one of which is caused to enter
at an intermediate stage, or (2) a single working fluid*, at
least a portion of which is discharged at an intermediate
stage.
(3) Note. Included under this definition is a pump*
comprising a plurality of blade* sets, a separate portion of
the working fluid* impinging on each set and discharging
separately from the other portion and at a different
pressure.
(4) Note. Included under this definition is a device in
which a portion of the working fluid* bypasses completely all
of the runner* stages and is combined in the outlet conduit
with the working fluid* which has impinged on the runner.
(5) Note. Included under this definition is a device having
a pressure relief valve in an intermediate stage for exit of
working fluid*.
(6) Note. Included under this definition is a device in
which working fluid* in passing to a lower runner* stage, is
caused to stratify and only one layer is passed to the lower
runner* stage, or both layers act on a plurality of runner*
stages in parallel.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61 for plural runners* mounted for independent or relative
movement and means to bypass at least one of the runners*.
115 for a device in which working fluid* is bypassed around
at least one runner* blade row by means of a passage in a
vane*, blade*, shaft* or rotary distributor.
116 for a device in which a plurality of diverse fluids or a
plurality of diverse inlets enter the apparatus upstream of
all disclosed runner* stages.
Subclass:
145
This subclass is indented under subclass 144. Apparatus
comprising a movable regulating or distributing means* for
selecting the quantity of working fluid* in the path
including less than all the blade* rows.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
28 for a valve bypassing a runner* stage, the valve
activated by an automatic control means.
Subclass:
146
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a member in the working fluid* flow
conduit which member guides or regulated the flow of working
fluid* and is movable from a first position towards a second
position by a force caused by the flow of working fluid*
acting against the member and is biased or otherwise urged
towards it first position when the working fluid* stops
flowing or the direction of its flow reverses.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
2.1 for a device with means for controlling casing* or flow
guiding means in response to natural fluid current force or
direction (i.e., water or wind current).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
137, Fluid Handling, 455 for line condition responsive
valves and particularly subclasses 511+ for other check type
or return flow preventing valves.
Subclass:
147
This subclass is indented under subclass 146. Apparatus in
which the member is followed by the runner* in the direction
of fluid flow.
Subclass:
148
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a vane* or other control means which may
be selectively moved to different positions to vary the
direction or amount of working fluid* flow.
(1) Note. This group of subclasses will accept a claim
which must be classified in this class, even though the
runner* is not recited.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
8 for a device comprising a driven runner* immersed in a
fluid and an adjustable vane* in an unconfined fluid stream
for selectively guiding the working fluid*.
53.3 for a device having a cross flow runner* and further
including selectively adjustable vane* or working fluid*
control means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, 37 for a fluid conduit
having baffles or other means for changing the direction or
rate of flow of fluid in the conduit.
251, Valves and Valve Actuation, appropriate subclasses for
fluid flow controlling valves, particularly 118 for fluid
handling devices with baffles or other material guide
structure.
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), appropriate
subclasses, for a runner* and continuously moving vanes* or
deflectors with no fixed means to direct or confine the
working fluid*.
Subclass:
149.1
Separate means upstream and downstream of blade set:
This subclass is indented under subclass 148. Device
comprising two such vanes* or other control means, one such
vane or other control means directing the working fluid* onto
a row of runner* blades* and a second such vane or other
control means receiving working fluid from the same row or a
different row of runner blades.
(1) Note. The two means need not be positioned adjacently
upstream and downstream of one row of runner blades.
(2) Note. This subclass does not include a device merely
comprising a single vane, vane row, or other control means
which (a) directs the working fluid onto a row of runner
blades when the working fluid is flowing through the device
in one direction and (b) receives the working fluid from the
row of runner blades when the working fluid is flowing
through the device in an opposite direction.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
151 for a device having a selectively adjustable vane or
working fluid control means located upstream of the runner.
Subclass:
149.2
Including axial flow blade set:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149.1. Device
wherein the working fluid* path to, through, and from one of
the rows of runner blades is in a direction predominantly
parallel to the runner's rotational axis.
Subclass:
149.3
Means to reverse flow through blade set:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149.2. Device
comprising means to alter the flow of working fluid* to,
through, and from the one (axial flow) row of runner blades
to be in either of opposite directions.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
910 for a device reversible between pump and motor use.
Subclass:
149.4
Plural, selectively adjustable, alternating vane assemblies
and axial blade rows (A, B, A, B):
This subclass is indented under subclass 149.2. Device
comprising (a) at least two rows of such (axial flow) working
member blades* which rows contact the working fluid*
sequentially and (b) at least two rows of such (selectively
adjustable) static partition members (vanes*). The blade (A)
and static partition member (B) rows are configured to
contact the working fluid by turns ("A, B, A, B" or "B, A, B,
A") as the working fluid passes through the device.
(1) Note. The working member blade rows need not be claimed
for inclusion in this subclass provided it is understood that
the rows are present in the described configuration.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
199.5 for plural, serial, axial flow blade sets with one or
more nonselectively adjustable intermediate stationary flow
diverters.
Subclass:
150
This subclass is indented under subclass 148. Apparatus in
which the vane* or other means is moved by the runner*, the
shaft* or a separate and independent source of power.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
42 for a vane* or valve controlling the working fluid* and
actuated by the runner*, a separate motor* or the shaft* and
in response to a predetermined speed.
125 for a device in which an apparatus part is given a
regularly recurring motion.
Subclass:
151
This subclass is indented under subclass 148. Apparatus in
which the vane* or other means is positioned ahead of at
least one blade* row of a runner* in relation to the
direction of flow of working fluid*.
(1) Note. The working fluid* may contact one or more blade*
rows before it contacts the vane* or other means.
Subclass:
152.1
Motor runner with selective inlet paths for reversible
rotation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 151. Device wherein
working fluid* adds energy to and rotates the runner* (i.e.,
"motor*" runner). The vane* or other (control) means varies
the route of working fluid flow to the runner to rotate the
runner unidirectionally in one direction when the vane or
other (control) means is in one position and to rotate the
runner unidirectionally in an opposite direction when the
vane or other (control) means is in another position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61 for a device having means controlling working fluid to
one of a plurality of runners which are on separate shafts*
or mounted for relative rotation.
82 for a motor runner device motivated by a reaction-type
jet discharge nozzle from an internal working fluid conduit
which has means for controlling the runner directions.
85 for a device having a runner with annular blade rows or
fluid channels spaced on a common radial plane which has
means for reversing the runner's rotation.
167 for a device with a movable working fluid pipe or nozzle
which is capable of directing working fluid to a runner from
various directions.
910 for a device reversible between pump and motor use which
may have means for reversible rotation of the runner.
911 for a device comprising a reversible pump runner and
separate outlets for opposing directions of rotation.
Subclass:
152.2
Runner includes radial flow blade set:
This subclass is indented under subclass 152.1. Device
comprising a runner* having a blade* row wherein the working
fluid* flow path through the blade* row is predominantly
inwardly toward or outwardly from the runner's axis of
rotation.
(1) Note. A circumferential flow blade row is not
considered to be a radial flow blade row for the purposes of
this subclass.
Subclass:
153.1
Separate runner blade set acted upon for reverse rotation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 152.1. Device
wherein the runner* comprises at least two blade* rows. The
(selectively adjustable) vane* or other (control) means, when
in one position, directs the working fluid* to one of the
blade rows to rotate the runner unidirectionally in one
direction and, when in another position, directs the working
fluid* to a second of the blade rows to rotate the runner
unidirectionally in an opposite direction.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
78 for a device comprising a runner having blades extending
radially inward from a common annulus with means for
selecting only one blade row for working fluid flow, usually
for reversing runner rotation.
Subclass:
153.2
Axial flow blade set:
This subclass is indented under subclass 153.1. Device
wherein the working fluid* flow path to, through, and from
one of the runner* blade* rows is predominantly parallel to
the runner's axis of rotation.
Subclass:
154.1
Plural inlets simultaneously discharging working fluid onto
single blade set:
This subclass is indented under subclass 152.1. Device
wherein one of the working fluid* (selective inlet) paths to
the runner* includes at least two apertures or nozzles
through which the working fluid is directed concurrently onto
a runner blade row.
Subclass:
154.2
Axial flow blade set:
This subclass is indented under subclass 154.1. Device
wherein the working fluid* flow path to, through, and from
the working member blade* row is predominantly parallel to
the runner's axis of rotation.
Subclass:
154.3
Including axial flow blade set:
This subclass is indented under subclass 152.1. Device
wherein the working fluid* flow path to, through, and from a
working member blade* row of the runner* is predominantly
parallel to the runner's axis of rotation.
Subclass:
155
This subclass is indented under subclass 151. Apparatus
comprising two or more distinct and individually operable
means, all of which are positioned upstream of the same
blade* row.
(1) Note. Excluded under this definition is a device having
a plurality of adjustable vanes* or other working fluid*
control means, which operate simultaneously, but each of
which is so arranged as to yield independently of the others
when obstructed. The only devices included under this
definition are those where each of a plurality of vanes* or
other working fluid* control means is selectively adjusted
independently of the others.
Subclass:
156
This subclass is indented under subclass 151. Apparatus in
which the means (1) comprise at least in part a material
which is capable of being altered in shape and of returning
or being returned to its original shape (e.g., elastic) or
(2) is held in working position by means capable of
recovering its original shape or position after being
distorted or moved (e.g., spring).
Subclass:
157
This subclass is indented under subclass 151. Apparatus in
which the means comprises a member of cylindrical or disklike
configuration, shiftable along or in the direction of the
runner* axis.
Subclass:
158
This subclass is indented under subclass 157. Apparatus in
which the member is capable of being shifted to a position
encircling or surrounding the runner*.
Subclass:
159
This subclass is indented under subclass 151. Apparatus
comprising two or more means angularly spaced around and
equidistant from the runner axis.
Subclass:
160
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Apparatus in
which each means comprises a vane* mounted for movement
around its axis.
(1) Note. In order to qualify under this definition, there
must be some directing or guiding of the working fluid*. See
definition of "vane" in section 1 of the Main Class
Definition.
Subclass:
161
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Apparatus
comprising in addition, a vane* or other flow guiding member
nonadjustably supported in the flow path.
Subclass:
162
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Apparatus
comprising two or more distinct sets of vanes*, all the
vanes* in one set being simultaneously movable.
(1) Note. A set of vanes* comprises at least two physically
interrelated vanes*, usually in a single circular annulus and
which together controls the working fluid* at a particular
zone or area of the path. See (1) Note in subclass 52 for
definition of a blade set.
(2) Note. Each set of vanes* may control working fluid*
flow to a distinct set of runner* blades*, or all sets of
vanes* may control flow to a single set of runner* blades*.
Subclass:
163
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Apparatus in
which the pivot axis of each vane* is parallel to the runner*
axis.
Subclass:
164
This subclass is indented under subclass 163. Apparatus in
which the vanes* lie in a plane which is normal to the
runner* axis and passes through at least part of the runner*
blade*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
45 for speed responsive means for controlling the flow of
working fluid* to a runner* blade* through a plurality of
inlets which are located on the same radial plane as said
blade*.
Subclass:
165
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Apparatus in
which the means lie in a plane which is normal to the runner*
axis and passes through at least a portion of the runner*
blade*.
(1) Note. Included under this definition is a control means
which is movable into and out of the same radial plane as the
runner* blade*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
45 for speed responsive means for controlling the flow of
working fluid* to a runner* blade* through a plurality of
inlets which are located on the same radial plane as said
blade*.
164 for adjustable vanes* laying in the same radial plane as
part of the blade*, each vane* having a pivot axis parallel
to the runner* axis.
Subclass:
166
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Apparatus in
which the means are selectively rotatable about the runner*
supporting axis.
Subclass:
167
This subclass is indented under subclass 151. Apparatus in
which the means comprises a working fluid* conduit shiftable
to a plurality of positions relative the the runner*, and
having a modified or unmodified discharge outlet.
(1) Note. The working fluid* conduit may be shiftable to
positions wherein the working fluid* bypasses or reverses the
direction of rotation of the runner*, or acts as a braking
medium to slow the velocity of runner* rotation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
123 for a device in which an additional nozzle or other
means discharge working fluid* onto a runner* associated
member for retarding or slowing the runner*.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, 587.1 for a
nozzle or general utility adjustably or shiftably mounted
relative to its support.
Subclass:
167.1
Convertible series-parallel pump:
This subclass is indented under subclass 151. Device
comprising two blade* rows which each add energy (i.e.,
"pump"* blade rows) to working fluid* and further comprising
means to selectively configure the device to direct the
working fluid from a device inlet to an outlet either (a)
along one path proceeding through the two blade rows in
sequence (i.e., in-series flow path) or (b) along separate
paths, a proceeding alone different ones of the through only
one of the blade rows (i.e., in-parallel flow paths).
Subclass:
168.1
INCLUDING MEANS FOR HANDLING WORKING FLUID LEAKAGE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device
comprising means to treat, dispose of, or otherwise deal with
a portion of the working fluid* which has passed through a
flow preventing or retarding joint between two distinct
elements of the device.
(1) Note. Lubricating or other fluid not originating in the
working fluid is not considered to be working fluid leakage
under this definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.1 for a device comprising reentry means for working fluid
which has passed through a joint between two distinct
elements of the device.
110 for a device comprising a seal, packing, or bearing
having an internal working fluid connection which carries off
any leakage from the seal, packing, or bearing.
115 for a device comprising means to discharge leakage fluid
into the working fluid path by means of a passage in a
blade*, vane*, or shaft.
170.1 for a device having a seal between a runner portion
and a static part.
Subclass:
168.2
Leakage through seal between runner or shaft and static
part:
This subclass is indented under subclass 168.1. Device
wherein the working fluid* has passed through at least a
portion of a structure which prevents or retards the flow of
working fluid between a runner* or shaft* and a fixed element
(i.e., seal).
(1) Note. The structure may be integral with the runner,
shaft, or fixed element.
Subclass:
168.3
Screw type pumping seal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 168.2. Device
wherein the (seal) structure comprises a helical groove
located at the interface between the runner* or shaft* and
the fixed element, which groove rotates relative to the
runner or the fixed element to drive the working fluid*
between the runner or shaft and the fixed element in a
direction parallel to the runner's axis of rotation.
(1) Note. The groove may be part of the runner or the fixed
element.
Subclass:
168.4
Means specific to axial flow runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 168.2. Device
wherein particular significance is attributed to the runner*
being of the type having working fluid* flow to, through, and
from the runner predominantly parallel to the runner's axis
of rotation.
Subclass:
169.1
INCLUDING MEANS FOR HANDLING PORTION SEPARATED FROM WORKING
FLUID:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device
comprising means to treat, dispose of, or otherwise deal with
a part of the working fluid* which has been removed (i.e.,
separated) from the working fluid.
(1) Note. The "part of the working fluid which has been
removed from the working fluid" may comprise condensate,
moisture, nonsolid particles suspended in the working fluid,
a small quantity of the working fluid, etc.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.1 for a device comprising means for directing a portion
of working fluid back to a blade set previously contacted by
the working fluid, particularly subclasses 56.1+ wherein the
means is used to discharge air and prime a pump.
110 for a device comprising a seal, packing, or bearing
having an internal working fluid connection which carries off
any leakage from the seal, packing, or bearing.
115 for a device comprising means to discharge leakage fluid
into the working fluid path by means of a passage in a
blade*, vane*, or shaft.
121.2 for a device with means for separating or guarding
against solids in the working fluid.
144 for a device comprising means for handling a bypass
portion of working fluid which has not leaked through a
joint.
168.1 for a device comprising means for handling working
fluid leakage through a joint.
170.1 for a device having a bearing, seal, or liner between
a runner portion and a static part.
Subclass:
169.2
Moisture or liquid separated from gaseous working fluid
(e.g., condensate removal, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 169.1. Device
wherein moisture vapor or liquid carried in a gaseous state
working fluid* is treated, disposed of, or otherwise dealt
with separately from the gaseous working fluid.
(1) Note. This subclass includes a device wherein a part of
the working fluid which contains a higher proportion of
moisture than the working fluid in general is removed from
the working fluid.
Subclass:
169.3
Vane having specific moisture or liquid directing surface:
This subclass is indented under subclass 169.2. Device
comprising a vane* working fluid* directing or other means
which includes an outer boundary (surface) which has
particular features for guiding the flow of moisture vapor or
liquid formed or deposited thereon.
(1) Note. The moisture vapor or liquid on the outer
boundary of the vane or other directing means is usually
guided to a channel or duct which carries the moisture or
liquid away.
Subclass:
169.4
Axial flow blade set and area for collecting moisture or
liquid thrown radially outward:
This subclass is indented under subclass 169.2. Device
comprising a working member blade* row wherein the working
fluid* flow path to, through, and from the blade row
predominantly follows a path parallel to the runner's axis of
rotation. The device further comprises a region radially
outward of the blades which gathers moisture vapor or liquid
projected outward by the blade row.
Subclass:
170.1
BEARING, SEAL, OR LINER BETWEEN RUNNER PORTION AND STATIC
PART:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device
comprising means located between a runner* and a fixed
element which (a) reduces friction between the runner and the
fixed element while providing a supporting or guiding
function for the runner, (b) prevents or retards the flow of
fluid between the runner and the fixed element, or (c)
prevents or retards wear between the runner and the fixed
element.
(1) Note. A conventional runner rotating shaft* or shaft
covering portion (i.e., sleeve) is not considered to be a
part of a runner for the purposes of this and indented
subclasses.
(2) Note. Regarding (b) above, the fluid prevented or
retarded from flowing is usually working fluid*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
33 for a device having a bearing which automatically adjusts
in response to shaft speed or torque.
110 for a device with lubricating, sealing, packing, or
bearing means having a fluid path between the normal working
fluid path and an interior part of an assembly which fluid
path is positioned between two relatively moving apparatus
parts.
115 for a device with a passage in a blade*, vane*, shaft*,
or rotary distributor communicating with the working fluid*.
Such a passage may direct fluid to a region between a runner*
and a static part which fluid may act as a lubricant or
seal.
116 for a device with a diversely oriented inlet or an
additional inlet for a diverse fluid, which fluid may be
directed to a region between a runner and a static part to
act as a lubricant or seal.
126 for a device having a casing* which may have a seal,
bearing, or liner attached to and moveable with the casing
for adjustment.
168.1 for a device having a seal, liner, or bearing between
a runner* and a static part and means to dispose of any
leakage therethrough. Note particularly subclass 168.3 for
such a device with a screw-type pumping seal.
175 for a device with means for causing or controlling fluid
flow for reducing friction between two relatively moving
parts other than a runner portion and a static part.
196 for a device having a casing attached removable liner or
wear member which lines or protects the casing at a location
other than between a runner* or blade* and a static part.
229 for a device having a bearing, seal, or liner between a
shaft or shaft sleeve and a static part.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, 5 for devices for
gyroscopic action which have bearings which may be between a
runner or blade and a casing. See the reference to Class 74
in section IV of the Class 415 definitions for a statement of
class lines.
277, Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing
means or process (e.g., seal between a runner* and another
relatively movable part, seal between the two relatively
moving members, does not recite enough details of the rotary
kinetic device, etc.), 345 for a seal between relatively
movable parts (i.e., a dynamic seal).
384, Bearings, for a bearing or guide in which the runner is
supported for motion, where there is insufficient disclosure
of the rotary device to serve as a basis of classification in
Class 415.
Subclass:
171.1
Dynamically created seal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170.1. Device
wherein the means prevents or retards the flow of fluid
between the runner and the fixed element, wherein the means
is formed by rotation of the runner, and wherein the means
does not function when the runner is stationary.
(1) Note. Such devices usually prevent or retard flow of
working fluid* between the runner and the fixed element by
establishing regions of differing fluid pressure which
inhibit the flow by nature of the differing pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
109 for a device with a shaft* connected fluid abutment
member in a fluid filled shaft sealing chamber. The fluid in
the chamber rotates with the shaft.
168.3 for a device with a screw-type pumping seal for
handling working fluid leakage between a runner or shaft and
a static part.
Subclass:
172.1
Means to seal radial flow pump runner inlet from outlet:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170.1. Device
wherein the working fluid* path through the runner* is
predominantly inwardly toward or outwardly from the runner's
axis of rotation and wherein the runner adds energy to the
working fluid (i.e., "pump"* runner). The means prevents or
retards the flow of fluid between the runner's entrance and
exit which flow does not pass through (i.e., is not acted
upon by) the runner.
(1) Note. A circumferential or peripheral flow runner is
not considered to be a radial flow runner for the purposes of
this subclass.
Subclass:
173.1
Between blade edge and static part:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170.1. Device
wherein the means is located between a peripheral part of a
working member blade* on the runner* and the fixed element.
(1) Note. A device having a bearing, seal, or liner located
between a blade supported ring or shroud and a fixed element
is not included in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
55.4 for a turbine regenerative pump* having a seal at an
end of a regenerative passage which seal may oppose a blade
edge of the runner.
173.6 for a device having a bearing, seal, or liner between
a blade* tip ring or shroud and a fixed element.
Subclass:
173.2
Selectively adjustable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 173.1. Device
wherein the means (a) can be moved positively and at will and
(b) can be retained in any one of a multiplicity of different
positions.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
129 for a device having a runner* or blade* selectively
adjustable relative to a casing* which adjustment may adjust
a bearing, seal, or liner between a blade* edge and a static
part.
Subclass:
173.3
Resilient, flexible, or resiliently biased:
This subclass is indented under subclass 173.1. Device
wherein the means (a) has a tendency to regain its original
shape when bent, stretched, compressed, or otherwise
deformed, (b) can be easily bent, twisted, or turned without
breaking, or (c) comprises an element which urges, by
spring-type force, the means toward a predetermined
position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
140 for a device having a resilient or moveably mounted
blade* portion on an axially moveable runner* or shaft*.
Subclass:
173.4
Erodable or permanently deformable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 173.1. Device
wherein the means is worn away or forever altered in shape
just subsequent to or during operation of the device. Wear
or alteration in shape is by design and usually occurs during
device set up, break in, or under particular (i.e., extreme)
operating conditions.
(1) Note. A wear surface which merely wears slowly over
time due to the action of a working member blade and which is
replaced when worn beyond a certain degree is not included in
this subclass unless the surface has particular
characteristics promoting wear under certain conditions.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9 for devices including a destructible, fusible, or
deformable nonreuseable part.
Subclass:
173.5
Labyrinth seal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 173.1. Device
wherein the means prevents or retards the flow of fluid
between the peripheral part of the working member blade* and
the fixed element. The means comprises maze like or zigzag
interconnecting passages formed by the opposing working
member peripheral part and fixed element surfaces, through
which passages the fluid must flow to pass between the
peripheral part of the blade and the fixed element.
Subclass:
173.6
Between blade supported radial tip ring and static part:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170.1. Device
wherein the means is located between (a) an annulus or shroud
centered about the runner's axis of rotation and supported by
a runner blade* at a position predominantly at an outermost
point of the blade as measured from the runner's axis of
rotation and (b) the fixed element.
(1) Note. The annulus or shroud usually comprises a blade
ring which is supported by a multiplicity of runner blades,
the ring being positioned at an outermost radial point of
each blade as measured from the runner's axis of rotation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
172.1 for a radial flow pump runner having a seal between a
runner (e.g., ring supported shroud, etc.) and a static part
which seals the runner's inlet from its outlet.
Subclass:
173.7
Between axial flow runner and vane or vane diaphragm
structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170.1. Device
wherein the working fluid* path to, through, and from the
runner* is predominantly parallel to the runner's rotational
axis (i.e., axial flow). The means is positioned between the
(axial flow) runner and a partition member vane* or a
structure which secures one or more such vanes in position
relative to a casing*.
(1) Note. A seal means which retards or prevents flow
between a multiblade row axial flow runner and a vane or vane
diaphragm structure which seal means is located between blade
rows of the runner is included in this subclass.
(2) Note. The structure which secures one or more vanes in
position relative to a casing usually secures the vanes
arcuately about and in a radial plane perpendicular to the
rotational axis.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
173.1 for a device having a seal between a runner* blade*
edge and a static part, which static part may comprise a
vane* or vane diaphragm portion.
Subclass:
174.1
Selectively adjustable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170.1. Device
wherein the means (a) can be moved positively and at will and
(b) can be retained in any one of a multiplicity of different
positions.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
33 for a device having a bearing which automatically adjusts
in response to shaft speed or torque.
113 for a device having a shaft* lubricating, sealing,
packing, or bearing means comprising an assembly supported
for movement to any of a plurality of selected positions and
further comprising an internal working fluid* connection.
126 for a device having a casing* which may have a seal,
bearing, or liner attached to and movable with the casing for
adjustment.
129 for a device having a runner selectively adjustable
relative to a casing which adjustment may alter a bearing,
seal, or liner between the runner and a static part.
132 for a device having an axially movable bearing
supporting the end of a shaft* to adjust the shaft.
173.2 for a device having a selectively adjustable bearing,
seal, or liner between a blade* edge and a static part.
Subclass:
174.2
Resilient, flexible, or resiliently biased:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170.1. Device
wherein the means (a) has a tendency to regain its original
shape when bent, stretched, compressed, or otherwise
deformed, (b) can be easily bent, twisted or turned without
breaking, or (c) comprises an element which urges, by
spring-type force, the means toward a predetermined
position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
113 for a device having shaft sealing, packing, lubricating,
or bearing means comprising an internal working fluid
connection and a resilient portion.
173.3 for a device having a resilient, flexible, or
resiliently biased bearing, seal, or liner between a runner*
blade* edge and a static part.
Subclass:
174.3
Seal lies against axial face of runner hub:
This subclass is indented under subclass 174.2. Device
wherein the means prevents or retards the flow of fluid
between the runner* and the fixed element. The means
contacts or abuts against a surface of the runner's central
supporting structure (e.g., hub, etc.), which surface is
generally perpendicular to the runner's axis of rotation.
(1) Note. "Central supporting structure" of the runner does
not include a runner shaft or a runner blade* supported ring
or shroud for the purposes of this definition.
Subclass:
174.4
Erodable or permanently deformable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170.1. Device
wherein the means is worn away or forever altered in shape
just subsequent to or during operation of the device. The
wear or alteration in shape is by design and usually occurs
during device set up, break in, or under particular (i.e.,
extreme) operating conditions.
(1) Note. A wear surface which merely wears slowly over
time due to the action of a runner and which surface is
replaced when worn beyond a certain degree is not included in
this subclass unless the surface has particular
characteristics promoting wear under certain conditions.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9 for devices including a destructible, fusible, or
deformable part.
173.4 for a device having an erodable or deformable bearing,
seal, or liner between a runner* blade* edge and a static
part.
Subclass:
174.5
Labyrinth seal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170.1. Device
wherein the means prevents or retards the flow of fluid
between the runner* and the fixed element. The means
comprises maze like or zigzag interconnecting passages formed
by the opposing runner part and fixed element surfaces,
through which passages the fluid must flow to pass between
the runner and the fixed element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
173.5 for a labyrinth seal between a runner* blade* edge and
a static part.
Subclass:
175
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a means specifically provided to
positively move or prevent movement of a fluid which acts (1)
to transfer heat between it and an apparatus part, (2) to
reduce friction between two relatively moving parts or (3) as
a sealing fluid to prevent, preclude or reduce unwanted flow
of other fluid between two relatively moving apparatus
parts.
(1) Note. Included under this definition is an elevated
tank containing lubricating, sealing or heat exchanging fluid
for gravity flow of the fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
109 for apparatus having a chamber containing sealing fluid
and a member connected to and rotating with the shaft*
continuously causes motion of the sealing fluid.
177 for apparatus having heat exchanging means, but having
no means, such as a fan, pump or valve specifically provided
to positively move or control movement of the heat exchanging
medium.
Subclass:
176
This subclass is indented under subclass 175. Apparatus in
which the means is acted upon and moved by the working
fluid*.
(1) Note. The means may be merely an interface between the
working fluid* and the heat exchanging, sealing or
lubricating fluid which is moved or whose movement is
prevented.
Subclass:
177
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising means (1) to interchange heat between an
apparatus part or the working fluid* and another part or
fluid or (2) in contact with an apparatus part to reduce the
transfer of heat from the part through the means.
(1) Note. Included under (1) of this definition is a fin or
rib which increases the area of heat transfer, or direct
contact of a part with a fluid for heating or cooling, or
passage of working fluid* at different temperatures on both
sides of a wall.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
175 for a device in which there is means specifically
provided (e.g., fan, pump, valve) to positively move or
control movement of a heat exchange medium.
Subclass:
178
This subclass is indented under subclass 177. Apparatus
comprising a solid barrier of form or arrangement to affect
heat transfer therethrough, there being working fluid* on at
least one side of the barrier, there being fluid at another
temperature on the other side.
(1) Note. Included under this definition is ambient air as
the other fluid provided there is a solid barrier of special
form or arrangement (e.g., coil, fins) between it and the
working fluid*. See also (1) Note in subclass 177.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
108 for device having a space between the casing* and a
surrounding housing with the space being full of working
fluid* to permit heat exchange between the working fluid* and
parts of the apparatus.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, 690 for fluid motor in which the exhaust
fluid is heated or cooled, see section IV of the Main Class
Definition, reference to Class 60, (8).
Subclass:
179
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Apparatus in
which the heat exchange barrier is intermediate two sets of
blades*, the barrier serving to transfer heat to or from the
working fluid* as it passes from one set to the next
succeeding.
Subclass:
180
This subclass is indented under subclass 177. Apparatus
comprising an arrangement to transfer heat from the shaft*,
seal or bearing by direct contact of a cooling fluid with
such part.
(1) Note. This definition accepts only those devices in
which a fluid other than the working fluid* is used as the
coolant; for devices using the working fluid* for this
purpose, see the search notes below.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
116 for a device in which the cooling fluid for contacting
the shaft*, seal or bearing is then caused to enter upstream
of all disclosed runner* stages and pass through at least one
stage.
144 for a device in which the cooling fluid is then caused
to enter the working fluid* flow path at an intermediate
runner* stage.
Subclass:
181
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising an element, member or arrangement of
element or apparatus parts to provide for working fluid*
velocity of greater than the speed of sound through some
apparatus part.
(1) Note. The speed of sound or the velocity of propagation
of compressional waves in the working fluid* varies as the
temperature and pressure of use; a clear disclosure in the
specification that supersonic velocity is obtained is
sufficient to qualify under this definition.
Subclass:
182.1
WORKING FLUID PASSAGE OR DISTRIBUTING MEANS ASSOCIATED WITH
RUNNER (E.G., CASING, ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device
comprising means (e.g., casing*, etc.) to deliver, conduct,
guide, direct, or distribute the working fluid* to, around,
or from a runner*.
(1) Note. A device need not explicitly claim a runner to be
in this and indented subclasses.
(2) Note. Patents in this and indented subclasses have been
cross referenced to Class 416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e.,
Impellers), appropriate subclasses, where particular runner
structure has been disclosed. See section IV of the Class
415 definitions for a discussion of class lines.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
2.1 for a device with means for controlling casing or flow
guiding means in response to natural fluid current force or
direction.
108 for a device having a casing and a spaced housing with
the space vented to working fluid.
126 for a device having a casing part selectively movable
relative to a fixed support.
134 for a device having a casing with a thermal expansion
joint.
144 for a device having means to guide or conduct at least a
portion of the working fluid along a path which bypasses the
runner.
146 for a device including working fluid force responsive
vane or flow control means.
148 for a device having adjustable means to affect or
control the flow of working fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, 37 for a fluid conduit
having baffles or other means for changing the direction or
rate of flow of fluid in the conduit.
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, appropriate
subclasses for means forming a free jet of fluid, the means
not combined with runner structure.
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), for
particular runner structure.
Subclass:
183
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of members (e.g., vanes*, pipes, or
nozzles) each of which has means to convey or direct a
portion of the working fluid* directly onto the runner*.
(1) Note. The working fluid* streams may be directed to the
same set of blades*, or to different sets of blades* on the
same runner*.
(2) Note. A set of blades* or bucket comprises at least two
physically interrelated blades* or buckets which cooperate
with each other to form a single composite structure against
which the working fluid* may act. The blades* or buckets of
a set may be arranged relative to each other to form any one
of a variety of shapes (e.g., circle, spiral) but usually
comprises a single circular annulus.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52.1 for means to redirect working fluid* back to the same
blade* or set of blades* which the fluid had previously
contacted.
93 for means to conduct or guide a plurality of working
fluid* streams in opposed directions to a runner*.
149.1 for a device having selectively adjustable vane* or
working fluid* control means upstream and downstream of a
blade* set.
151 for adjustable means to control the flow or working
fluid* to a runner*.
208.1 for plural vanes* or deflectors for working fluid*
which are not. immediately upstream of the runner*
Subclass:
184
This subclass is indented under subclass 183. Apparatus in
which the members comprise a plurality of spirally or volute
shaped casings* or one spirally or volute shaped casing* has
a plurality of guide or conveying means supported
therewithin.
Subclass:
185
This subclass is indented under subclass 183. Apparatus in
which the members are spaced equidistant from the runner*
axis in a plane which is normal to the axis.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
159 for a plurality of movable vanes* arcuately or
circularly spaced around the runner* axis and positioned
upstream of and controlling working fluid* quantity or
direction onto a runner*.
208.2 for a device having plural and arcuately or circularly
arranged vanes* in a radial plane around the runner* axis,
which vanes* are not immediately upstream of the runner*
Subclass:
186
This subclass is indented under subclass 185. Apparatus in
which the members are positioned in the same plane as the
runner* blade*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
91 for distributing means radially interior of a set of
runner* blades* enclosed on its outer radial periphery.
Subclass:
187
This subclass is indented under subclass 186. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of sets of members spaced along the
axis, a set comprising a plurality of members lying in a
single plane perpendicular to the axis, each set distributing
working fluid* onto a runner* or a blade* set.
Subclass:
188
This subclass is indented under subclass 186. Apparatus in
which the members are within, or on a smaller radius than
that of, the runner* blade*.
Subclass:
189
This subclass is indented under subclass 185. Apparatus in
which the working fluid* guides or conducting means are
retained or fastened in operative position by means which
permits them to be readily disassembled from the adjacent
casing* structure without destruction of any parts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
209.2 for a device having plural and arcuately or circularly
arranged vanes* in a radial plane around the runner* axis but
not immediately upstream of the runner*, which device further
includes means for mounting a diaphragm or plural vane*
holder to a casing*.
209.3 for a device having plural and arcuately or circularly
arranged vanes* in a radial plane around the runner* axis but
not immediately upstream of the runner*, which device further
includes specific vane* mounting means.
Subclass:
190
This subclass is indented under subclass 189. Apparatus
comprising retaining or fastening means for each of a
plurality or working fluid* guides or conducting means spaced
from each other in the direction of flow of the working
fluid*.
Subclass:
191
This subclass is indented under subclass 185. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of vanes*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
8 for a device comprising a driven runner* immersed in a
fluid and a vane* in an unconfined fluid stream for guiding
the working fluid*.
Subclass:
192
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Apparatus in
which the vanes* are asymmetrically curved about an imaginary
line extending substantially radially from the runner* axis.
Subclass:
193
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of sets of vanes* spaced along the
axis, a set comprising a plurality of vanes* lying in a
single plane perpendicular to the axis, each set distributing
working fluid* onto a runner* or a blade* set.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
209.1 for a device having plural, axially spaced vane* sets
(a) acting successively or (b) having particular means for
axially spacing the vane* sets; the vane* sets each comprise
plural and arcuately or circularly arranged vanes* in a
radial plane around the runner* axis.
Subclass:
194
This subclass is indented under subclass 193. Apparatus in
which the vanes* of one of the groups are larger in length or
width or are positioned further from each other than the
vanes* in another set.
Subclass:
195
This subclass is indented under subclass 191. Apparatus in
which the spacing between any two adjacent vanes* of one set
is different than the spacing between any other two adjacent
vanes* in the same set.
Subclass:
196
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Apparatus
comprising a member secured to the interior of a working
fluid* conduit or casing* which member may be replaced and
which acts to protect the conduit wall or casing* against the
erosive or corrosive effect of the working fluid*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
128 for an adjustment liner for the inner periphery of a
casing*.
170.1 for a similar lining or wear member attached to or for
the transverse face or peripheral edge of a runner* disc or
blade*.
Subclass:
197
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Apparatus in
which the member is made of a nonmetallic material.
Subclass:
198.1
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of blade* sets fixedly or unitarily
associated with each other for contacting the working
fluid*.
(1) Note. The blade* sets may be (a) on a plurality of
runners*, i.e., a set on each of at least two runners*, or
(b) on opposite sides of a shroud plate to act on the fluid
in series or in parallel.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
55.5 for a regenerative turbine pump* having plural, rigidly
related blade* sets.
57.2 for a device having plural, independent, serially
acting means for the reentry of working fluid* to a first
blade* set and further having an additional blade* set in the
reentry path which may be rigidly related to the first blade
* set.
58.1 for a device having means for the reentry of working
fluid* to a first blade* set and further having an additional
blade* set in the reentry path which may be rigidly related
to the first blade* set.
59.1 for a device having plural blade* sets and including
means for the reentry of working fluid* to one of the blade*
sets.
62 for plural blade* sets in an arrangement of plural
runners* supported for relative movement.
64 for a runner* having plural blade* sets on a common
radial plane.
83 for a device having a runner* with annular blade* rows or
fluid channels spaced on a common radial plane.
93 appropriate subclasses indented thereunder, especially
subclasses 93 and 101+, for an arrangement in which end
thrust is balanced by working fluid* flowing in at least two
axial directions and comprising plural rigidly related blade*
sets.
106 for a device comprising a blade* on each side of a
common support wall or shroud plate in a runner* and a port
transferring fluid from one side of the wall or plate to the
other.
143 for plural runners* with diverse or different flow paths
through the runners*.
179 for a device comprising plural serial stages of runner*
blades* and a heat exchange apparatus intermediate two
stages.
Subclass:
199.1
This subclass is indented under subclass 198.1. Apparatus
which includes at least two blade* sets for contacting the
working fluid* sequentially, and wherein the working fluid*
moves predominately inwardly towards or outwardly from the
runner* axis as the working fluid* moves through each blade*
set, and which further includes immobile structure between
the blade* sets for altering the direction of movement of the
working fluid* as it passes from a preceding to a succeeding
blade* set.
Subclass:
199.2
This subclass is indented under subclass 199.1. Apparatus
wherein the flow directing structure includes stationary
vanes* which form channels that extend between the blade*
sets and cause the working fluid* to be separated into
plural, generally parallel, flow paths as the working fluid*
moves between the blade* sets.
Subclass:
199.3
This subclass is indented under subclass 199.2. Apparatus
wherein a cross section of the channel forming vanes* taken
in a plane perpendicular to the runner* axis forms a shape
that, at least in part, includes a curved line that extends
around the runner* axis at a radius that continually
increases or decreases relative to the runner* axis.
Subclass:
199.4
This subclass is indented under subclass 198.1. Apparatus
wherein the working fluid* moves through at least one of the
blade* sets in a direction predominately parallel to the axis
of the runner.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
74 for a device comprising plural rigidly related blade*
sets, one of which is a spirally arranged blade* or fluid
conducting passage of at least 360 deg. flight.
77 for an axial flow runner* comprising blades* extending
radially inwardly and outwardly from a common annulus.
Subclass:
199.5
This subclass is indented under subclass 199.4. Apparatus
which includes at least another blade* set for contacting the
working fluid* sequentially and wherein said fluid moves in a
direction predominately parallel to the runner* axis as the
fluid moves through each blade* set and which apparatus
further includes immobile structure between the blade* sets
for altering the directional movement of the fluid as it
passes from a preceding blade* set to a succeeding blade*
set.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
149.4 for a device having plural selectively adjustable
vane* or working fluid* control means alternating along a
working fluid flow path with axial flow blade rows
Subclass:
199.6
This subclass is indented under subclass 199.4. Apparatus
which further includes another blade* set arranged for
contacting the working fluid* sequentially, and wherein the
working fluid* path through said other blade* set is in a
direction predominately inwardly towards or outwardly from
the runner* axis.
Subclass:
200
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Apparatus in
which the material of the casings*, vane* of flow guiding
means is specifically recited in a claim.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
216.1 for a specific recitation of the material constituting
a shaft*.
217.1 for a specific recitation of a corrosion resistant or
nonmetallic material constituting a runner*.
Subclass:
201
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Apparatus in
which a part of the casing* may be removed or moved to a
different position to permit admittance to the interior
thereof while the apparatus is otherwise in assembled
condition.
Subclass:
202
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Apparatus
comprising a motor* runner* and a tubular member with a flow
modifying orifice at the end thereof through which the
working fluid* passes onto the runner*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
80 for a device with a motor runner motivated by a
reaction-type jet discharge nozzle from an internal working
fluid conduit.
167 for a nozzle adjustably or shiftably mounted to vary the
direction of discharge of working fluid* onto the runner*.
183 for a device having plural working fluid* distributing
means immediately upstream of a runner*.
185 appropriate subclasses preceding 191 for plural nozzles
arranged circularly around the runner* axis.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, appropriate
subclasses for nozzles, per se.
Subclass:
203
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Apparatus
comprising a housing in which the runner* is positioned, said
housing having an inlet or outlet for the working fluid*, the
longitudinal axis of the inlet or outlet being substantially
perpendicular to a radius drawn to the housing wall.
Subclass:
204
This subclass is indented under subclass 203. Apparatus
comprising a housing of spiral or volute form.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
212.1 for a scroll or helical type casing with a specific
exit nozzle.
Subclass:
205
This subclass is indented under subclass 204. Apparatus in
which the spiral or volute housing conducts the working
fluid* to the runner* and decreases in volume while
approaching the runner*.
Subclass:
206
This subclass is indented under subclass 203. Apparatus in
which the outlet is substantially perpendicular to a radius
drawn to the housing wall and the inlet is directed parallel
to the runner* axis.
Subclass:
207
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Apparatus
comprising a pump* runner* and, downstream of the blade*, a
flow path increasing in area in the direction of working
fluid* flow.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
203 for a working fluid* path downstream of a runner*,
expanding in area in the direction of fluid flow*, in a
device in which the casing has a tangential inlet or outlet
for the working fluid*.
Subclass:
208.1
Vane or deflector:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the means to deliver, conduct, guide, direct, or
distribute the working fluid* to, around, or from the runner*
comprises a static (nonrotating) partition member vane* or
other working fluid directing means in the working fluid flow
path.
(1) Note. A device comprising mere working fluid conducting
passage walls is not included in this subclass.
(2) Note. A device comprising plural vanes or other working
fluid directing means immediately upstream of a runner is not
included in this subclass. See subclasses 183+.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
2.1 for a device with means for controlling casing* or flow
guiding means in response to natural fluid current force or
direction which means may include a vane or deflector.
8 for a device having a driven, fluid immersed runner with a
vane in an unconfined fluid stream.
12 for a device with a bimetallic vane or vane adjustment
means.
53.2 for a device having a cross flow runner blade* set and
a vane or flow guide inside the blade set.
55.2 for a turbine regenerative pump* having means to
deflect working fluid in a regenerative passage.
142 for a device comprising a shaft* bearing combined with
or retained by a vane in a surrounding working fluid space.
146 for a device comprising working fluid force responsive
vane control.
148 for a device comprising selectively adjustable vane or
other working fluid control means.
173.7 for a device comprising bearing, sealing, or liner
structure between a vane or vane diaphragm structure and an
axial flow runner.
183 for a device comprising plural vanes or deflectors
immediately upstream of a runner.
199.1 for a device comprising serial, rigidly related,
radial flow blade* sets and an intermediate stationary flow
diverter.
199.5 for a device comprising serial, rigidly related, axial
flow blade* sets and an intermediate stationary flow
diverter.
218.1 for a device with a working fluid directing conical
runner hub (integral with runner) having its small diameter
facing upstream.
Subclass:
208.2
Plural and arcuately or circularly arranged in radial plane
around runner axis:
This subclass is indented under subclass 208.1. Device
comprising at least two such vanes* or other directing means
which are equidistantly spaced from the runner's* axis of
rotation and are positioned in a (radial) plane perpendicular
to the axis.
(1) Note. The guiding vanes or other directing means may
intersect the runner's axis of rotation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
56.3 for a device with pump* priming working fluid reentry
means which includes plural and arcuately arranged vanes
around the runner.
159 for a device comprising a plurality of vanes upstream of
and arcuately or circularly arranged around the runner axis,
at least one of which vanes is selectively adjustable to
control the working fluid amount or direction.
185 for a device comprising plural vanes arcuately or
circularly arranged around a runner axis and located
immediately upstream of the runner.
Subclass:
208.3
Plane intersects with runner blade:
This subclass is indented under subclass 208.2. Device
wherein the (radial) plane passing through the vanes* or
other directing means also passes through at least a portion
of a working member blade* of the runner*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
164 for a device comprising plural vanes which are upstream
of a runner, individually pivoted parallel to the runner
axis, and arcuately or circularly arranged around the runner
axis in a radial plane which passes through a blade of the
runner, at least one of which vanes is selectively
adjustable.
165 for a device comprising plural vanes which are upstream
of a runner and arcuately or circularly arranged around the
runner axis in a radial plane which passes through a blade of
the runner, at least one of which vanes is selectively
adjustable.
186 for a device comprising plural vanes which are
immediately upstream of a runner and arcuately or circularly
arranged around the runner axis in a radial plane which
passes through a blade of the runner.
Subclass:
208.4
Plural, radially spaced vane sets:
This subclass is indented under subclass 208.3. Device
comprising at least two groups of such vanes* or other
directing means wherein each group (a) comprises at least two
of the vanes or other directing means equidistantly spaced
from the runner's* axis of rotation, (b) is positioned in the
(radial) plane, and (c) is positioned at a different radius
from the runner's axis of rotation.
Subclass:
208.5
Nonradial flow runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 208.3. Device
wherein the working fluid* flow path through the runner* is
in a direction other than predominantly inwardly toward or
outwardly from the runner's axis of rotation.
(1) Note. Circumferential and axial flow runners are
considered to be examples of nonradial flow runners for the
purposes of this subclass.
Subclass:
209.1
Plural, axially spaced vane sets acting successively or
having specific spacing means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 208.2. Device
comprising first and second rows of such vanes* or other
directing means positioned apart along the runner's* axis of
rotation. Each row comprises at least two of the vanes or
other directing means positioned equidistant from the
runner's axis of rotation and in a (radial) plane
perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The device further
(a) directs the working fluid* through the two rows in
sequence or (b) comprises particular means to position the
two rows relative to one another along the axis of rotation.
(1) Note. The device may include a runner blade* row
positioned between the axially spaced rows of vanes or other
directing means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
187 for a device comprising first plural distributing means
immediately upstream of a runner, which first means are
arcuately or circularly arranged around the runner axis in a
radial plane with a blade of the runner, the device further
comprising second plural distributing means axially spaced
from the first plural distributing means.
193 for a device comprising plural, axially spaced vane sets
arcuately or circularly arranged around the runner's axis of
rotation wherein one of the sets is immediately upstream of
the runner.
199.5 for a device having plural, serial, axial flow blade
sets with an intermediate stationary flow diverter.
Subclass:
209.2
Having means for mounting diaphragm or plural vane holder to
casing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 208.2. Device
comprising a structure to which the vanes* or other directing
means are attached and further comprising means for securing
the structure in position relative to a casing*.
(1) Note. The structure must be distinct from the vanes or
other directing means for inclusion in this subclass. Means
for securing an integral single or double vane (e.g., nozzle
block) to a casing is not included in this subclass.
(2) Note. The device need not explicitly claim the presence
of the vanes or other directing means provided the presence
of such vanes or other means is clearly understood.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
189 for a device comprising plural vanes which are
immediately upstream of a runner*, arcuately or circularly
arranged around the runner axis, and removably secured or
mounted in a casing.
209.3 for a device comprising particular means for mounting
vanes to a supporting structure.
Subclass:
209.3
Having specific vane mounting means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 208.2. Device
wherein particular significance is attributed to means for
securing one of the vanes* or other directing means in
position relative to a supporting structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
189 for a device comprising plural vanes which are
immediately upstream of a runner*, arcuately or circularly
arranged around the runner axis, and removably secured or
mounted in a casing.
209.2 for a device comprising means for mounting a diaphragm
or plural vane holder to a casing.
Subclass:
209.4
Vane fixed between radially separate surfaces:
This subclass is indented under subclass 209.3. Device
wherein the vane* or other directing means is held
intermediate two structures at opposite ends of the vane or
other directing means, and wherein the two structures lie at
different distances from the runner's* axis of rotation.
(1) Note. Either or both of the two structures may consist
of circumferentially extending segments connected together.
Subclass:
210.1
Fixed between radially separate surfaces:
This subclass is indented under subclass 208.2. Device
wherein the vane* or other directing means is held
intermediate two structures at opposite ends of the vane or
other directing means; the two structures lie at different
distances from the runner's* axis of rotation.
(1) Note. Either or both of the two structures may consist
of circumferentially extending segments connected together.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
209.4 for a device comprising plural and arcuately or
circularly arranged vanes which lie in a radial plane around
a runner axis, are fixed between radially separate surfaces,
and which include specific vane mounting means.
Subclass:
211.1
In radial plane with runner blade:
This subclass is indented under subclass 208.1. Device
wherein the vane* or other directing means lies in a plane
normal to the runner's* axis of rotation, which plane passes
through at least a portion of a working member blade*.
(1) Note. A device having a mere partition or wall with an
orifice in which a runner* is positioned is not included in
this subclass.
(2) Note. In axial flow devices, a "vane or other directing
means" positioned about the periphery of a runner blade row
is generally distinguished from a "casing" structure about
the blade row in that a vane or other directing means (a)
encloses the periphery of the blade row over less than half
of the axial extent of the blade row and (b) does not act to
support the runner.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
53.2 for a device having a cross flow runner blade set and a
vane or flow guide inside the blade set.
55.2 for a turbine regenerative pump* having means to
deflect working fluid* in a regenerative passage, which means
lies in a radial plane with the runner blade.
148 for a device comprising a selectively adjustable vane
which may lie in a radial plane with a runner blade.
208.3 and see the search notes therewith, for a device
comprising plural vanes arcuately or circularly arranged in a
radial plane around the runner axis, which plane passes
through at least a portion of a working member Blade.
220 for a device having a casing with an axial flow runner
which casing may include a portion which encloses the
periphery of the blade set and lies in a plane passing
through the blade set.
Subclass:
211.2
Downstream of runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 208.1. Device
wherein the vane* or other directing means is located beyond
the runner* in the direction of the working fluid* flow.
Subclass:
212.1
Scroll or helical type casing with specific exit nozzle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
comprising a casing* of spiral or volute form and a discharge
opening therefrom, wherein particular significance is
attributed to the discharge opening.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
204 for a device having a scroll type casing and a
tangential inlet or outlet.
208.1 for a device having a vane* or deflector downstream of
a runner*.
Subclass:
213.1
Casing with mounting means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the means comprises a casing* and a means for
securing or anchoring the casing to an external frame of
reference.
(1) Note. External frames of reference may include such
items as the floor or another structure on which the device
is anchored, for example.
(2) Note. Devices comprising means to secure a casing to an
outer housing (e.g., securing an inner casing to an outer
casing) are included in this subclass if the space between
the inner casing and the outer housing is not vented to the
working fluid*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
108 for a device comprising a casing and an outer housing
wherein working fluid is vented to the space between the
casing and housing.
126 for a device comprising a casing part selectively
movable relative to a fixed support.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
248, Supports, appropriate subclasses, for support structure,
per se, particularly 637 for the combination of a support
and a casing claimed so broadly as to be of general utility.
See the Class 415 definition line notes for a discussion of
class lines.
Subclass:
214.1
Casing having multiple parts releasably clamped (e.g., casing
seal, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the means comprises a casing* which includes a
plurality of sections which are positioned with relation to
one another by pressing or wedging means.
(1) Note. Devices comprising multiple casing parts screwed,
bolted, or riveted together are included in this subclass.
(2) Note. A seal positioned between two or more releasably
clamped casing parts is included in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
126 for a device comprising a casing part selectively
movable relative to a fixed support.
201 for a device comprising a casing having an access
opening through a portion of the casing or cover.
Subclass:
215.1
Casing having multiple parts welded, cemented, or fused:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the means comprises a casing* which includes a
plurality of sections which are positioned with relation to
one another by (a) liquefying or melting together by heat or
(b) by adhesive bonding.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
219, Electric Heating, 136 for metal heating arc welding
devices or processes.
Subclass:
216.1
With runner shaft of specific shape or material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
comprising a shaft* for the runner* wherein particular
significance is attributed to the surface configuration or
physical substance of the shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
124.2 for a device including a shaft transmission train
having flexible means which may include a flexible shaft or
shaft coupling.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), 244 for
runner support mounting carrier, or fairing structure which
may include a runner shaft of a specific shape or material.
464, Rotary Shafts, Gudgeons, Housings, and Flexible
Couplings for Rotary Shafts, 179 for rotary shaft
structure.
Subclass:
217.1
With runner having corrosion resistant or nonmetallic
portion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the runner* comprises (a) metal which tends to resist
or inhibit wearing away by chemical action or (b) a
nonmetallic substance.
(1) Note. Examples of materials found under this definition
include stainless steel, ceramics, porcelain, and glass.
(2) Note. Although it includes subject matter better suited
to Class 416, Fluid Reaction Surface (i.e., Impellers), this
subclass has been retained since the subject matter is not
currently provided for in Class 416.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
141 for a device having a flexible runner blade* which may
be corrosion resistant or nonmetallic.
170.1 for a device having a runner with a lining or wear
member attached to a runner portion.
197 for a device having a passage or casing* attached
removable liner or wear member of nonmetallic material.
200 for a device with a casing* wherein particular
significance is attributed to the casing or vane* material.
216.1 for a device comprising working fluid* passage or
distributing means with a runner shaft* of a specific
material which may be corrosion resistant or nonmetallic.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), 241 for an
impeller comprising a blade structure of a specific
composition which may include corrosion resistant or
nonmetallic materials.
Subclass:
218.1
With runner having conical hub including small diameter
facing upstream:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the runner* comprises a rotating base member which
support a blade*. The rotating base member has sides which
increase evenly in diameter with the lesser diameter portion
facing against the direction of working fluid* flow so as to
act somewhat as a guide to direct the flow toward the blade.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), 245 for a
runner comprising a coaxially mounted spinner or fairwater
cap, subclass 188 for a rotor comprising a flow confining or
deflecting web or end plate which is circumferentially and
radially continuous and which is conical.
Subclass:
219.1
Casing with axial, conical flow runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the means comprises a casing* and wherein the working
fluid* flows to, through, and from the runner* along a path
extending along the runner's axis of rotation. The working
fluid path has a ring like or annular cross section taken
perpendicular to the axis of rotation, which cross section is
centered about and which cross section decreases or increases
in diameter along the axis of rotation.
(1) Note. Working fluid flow to, through, and from a runner
which flow is radial only to an extent necessary for the
expansion or compression of working fluid passing axially
through the runner is not considered to be axial, conical
flow.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
218.1 for a casing with a runner including a working fluid
directing conical hub having its small diameter facing
upstream.
220 for a casing with an axial flow runner.
Subclass:
220
Casing with axial flow runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the means comprises a casing* and wherein the working
fluid* path to, through, and from the runner* is
predominantly parallel to the runner's axis of rotation.
(1) Note. In axial flow devices, a "casing" positioned
about the periphery of a runner blade* row is generally
distinguished from a vane* or deflector in that a casing (a)
encloses the periphery of the blade row over more than half
of the axial extent of the blade row or (b) includes means to
support the runner.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
4.3 for a device comprising an axial flow runner with means
for controlling a casing or flow guiding means in response to
natural fluid current force.
4.5 for a device comprising an axial flow runner with means
for controlling a casing or flow guiding means in response to
natural fluid current direction.
72 for a device comprising a casing with a runner having a
spirally arranged blade or fluid passage which extends along
the runner axis and may direct the fluid along an axial flow
path.
77 for a device comprising a casing with an axial flow
runner having blades extending radially inward and outward
from a common annulus.
91 for a device comprising a casing with an annular runner
having an inwardly projecting blade which may direct the
fluid along an axial flow path.
170.1 for a device comprising a bearing, seal or liner
between an axial flow runner or runner blade and a static
part.
199.4 for a device comprising a casing with a runner having
plural rigidly related blade sets at least one set of which
directs the fluid along an axial flow path.
208.1 for a device having a vane* or deflector for a runner
which may include an axial flow blade set, particularly
subclass 211.1 in which the vane or deflector is in the same
radial plane as the blade set.
908 for a natural fluid current motor* having an axial flow
runner.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), appropriate
subclasses, for impeller structure, per se.
Subclass:
221
Having specific features for liquid flow:
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Device
comprising structure particularly adapted to working fluid*
which is in the liquid (i.e., incompressible) state.
Subclass:
222
Pump with casing narrowing to runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Device wherein
the runner* rotates so as to increase the energy of the
working fluid* (i.e., pump*); the casing* member directs the
working fluid along a path decreasing in cross sectional area
as it approaches the runner.
(1) Note. A device comprising a casing member wherein the
path decreases in cross sectional area in the region of a
runner blade* row (i.e., in the plane of the blade row) is
included in this subclass.
(2) Note. A device comprising an axial flow multistage
runner casing which decreases slightly in cross section while
guiding working fluid past several blade rows is not included
in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
208.1 for a device having a vane* or deflector which may
form a passage which narrows to a pump runner; particularly
subclass 211.1 wherein the vane or deflector is in a radial
plane with a runner blade.
Subclass:
223
Having runner in orifice of radially extending partition or
casing element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 220. Device wherein
the runner* is positioned in an opening (a) of a wall
generally perpendicular to the runner's axis of rotation or
(b) of a casing* member element which extends perpendicularly
to the runner's axis of rotation.
(1) Note. A device comprising a mere tube or pipe with a
runner positioned inside is not included in this subclass.
Subclass:
224
Casing with nonradial flow runner (e.g., circumferential flow
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the means comprises a casing* and wherein the working
fluid* flow path through the runner* is in a direction other
than predominantly inwardly toward or outwardly from the
runner's axis of rotation.
(1) Note. The flow path is often in a direction around the
periphery of the runner (i.e., circumferential flow).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88 for a pump device comprising a casing with a runner
having a rotating inlet end or scoop immersed in liquid.
92 for a device comprising a casing with a motor runner
having a working fluid trapping pocket.
202 for a device comprising a casing with a motor runner and
further comprising a nozzle discharging onto the runner.
203 for a device having a tangential inlet or outlet and a
nonradial flow runner.
208.5 for a device comprising a nonradial flow runner having
plural vanes or deflectors arcuately or circularly arranged
around the runner's axis of rotation.
219.1 for a device comprising a casing with an axial,
conical flow runner.
220 for a device comprising a casing and an axial flow
runner.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, 217 for a device for measuring
volume or rate of flow which is of the tank type with a
rotary bucket, and subclasses 861.79+ for a device for
measuring volume or rate of flow which uses a turbine which
may be of a nonradial flow type.
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), 223 for
specific blade structure of a runner which may be of the
nonradial type.
Subclass:
224.5
Radial flow casing having vaneless annulus diffuser:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
comprising a casing* which guides working fluid* along a
decelerating flow path having no vanes. The path (a) extends
in a plane perpendicular to the runner's* axis of rotation
and (b) is predominantly inwardly toward or outwardly from
the runner's axis of rotation.
Subclass:
225
Exit chamber in radial plane axially offset from runner
(e.g., sludge pump, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the means comprises a working fluid* flow cavity or
chamber which the working fluid enters after having been
acted upon by the runner*. The cavity (a) generally extends
radially in a plane perpendicular to the runner's axis of
rotation, and (b) is spaced from the runner in a direction
parallel to the runner's axis of rotation.
(1) Note. A device merely having a working fluid flow
passage which conducts the working fluid axially away from a
runner is not included in this subclass.
(2) Note. This subclass includes many devices for pumping
sewage or sludge.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
203 for a device comprising a casing* having a tangential
inlet or outlet, which device may have a ring shaped flow
cavity spaced from the runner in a direction parallel to the
runner's axis of rotation.
220 for a device comprising a casing* with an axial flow
runner, which device may have a flow pipe or path of annular
cross section which conducts the working fluid away from the
runner.
913 for a device comprising an inlet and outlet with
concentric portions.
Subclass:
226
Annular exit chamber outward of runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the means comprises a working fluid* flow cavity
which the working fluid enters after having been acted upon
by the runner*. The cavity is (a) generally in the shape of
a ring (annulus) extending around the runner and (b) located
adjacent and at a radius greater than the outer periphery of
the runner.
(1) Note. The cavity is most commonly located in the same
plane as the runner.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
203 for a device comprising a casing* having a tangential
inlet or outlet, which casing may also have a ring shaped
flow cavity around the runner's outer periphery.
208.1 for a vaned* device which may comprise a working fluid
flow cavity located around the outer periphery of the
runner.
Subclass:
227
Runner having flow confining continuous passage:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the runner* comprises an uninterrupted working fluid*
pathway which extends from the runner inlet to the runner
outlet and wholly confines the fluid while in working
engagement therewith over at least a portion of the pathway.
(1) Note. Patents in this subclass have been cross
referenced to Class 416 where particular runner structure has
been disclosed.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), 179 for a
rotor comprising a flow confining or deflecting web, shroud,
or continuous passage, particularly subclasses 186+ for a
runner comprising a circumferentially and radially continuous
web or end plate, an opposed annular surface, and in-between
adjacent blades.
Subclass:
228
Runner having full circular shroud for blades:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182.1. Device
wherein the runner* comprises at least two working member
blades* extending from a working fluid* flow directing
surface, which surface (a) extends generally perpendicular to
and radially away from the runner's axis of rotation, (b) is
continuous from the center to the radial periphery, and (c)
has a radial periphery which lies, at all points, at a
greater radial distance from the runner's axis of rotation
than the radially outermost point of any of the blades.
(1) Note. The blades usually extend from the flow directing
surface in a direction parallel to the runner's axis.
(2) Note. The runner under this definition may be referred
to as a semi-open impeller.
(3) Note. Patents in this subclass have been cross
referenced to Class 416 where particular runner structure has
been disclosed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
227 for a device including a runner comprising a flow
confining continuous passage which may include a full
circular shroud for blades.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), 179 for a
rotor comprising a flow confining or deflecting web or
shroud.
Subclass:
229
BEARING, SEAL, OR LINER BETWEEN SHAFT OR SHAFT SLEEVE AND
STATIC PART:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device
comprising means located between a shaft* or shaft covering
portion and a fixed element which (a) reduces friction
between the shaft or shaft covering portion and the fixed
element while providing a supporting or guiding function for
the shaft or shaft covering portion (b) prevents or retards
the flow of fluid between the shaft or shaft covering portion
and the fixed element, or (c) prevents or retards wear of the
shaft or shaft covering portion.
(1) Note. A runner* hub structure is not considered to be a
shaft covering portion for the purposes of this and indented
subclasses.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
33 for a device having a runner, blade*, shaft, or bearing
which automatically adjusts in response to shaft speed or
torque.
109 for a device with a shaft connected fluid abutment
member in a sealing fluid filled chamber (sealing the
shaft).
110 for a device with lubricating, sealing, packing, or
bearing means having an internal working fluid* connection.
115 for a device with a passage in a blade*, vane*, shaft,
or rotary distributor communicating with the working fluid*.
Such a passage may direct working fluid to a region between a
shaft and a static part.
116 for a device with a diversely oriented inlet or an
additional inlet for a diverse fluid, which fluid may be
directed to a region between a shaft and a static part.
126 for a device having a casing* which may have a shaft
seal, bearing, or liner attached to and movable with the
casing* for adjustment.
132 for a device having a bearing supporting the end of a
shaft which bearing is axially movable to adjust the shaft.
142 for a device having a shaft bearing combined with or
retained by an arm or vane* in the surrounding working fluid*
space.
168.1 for a device having a seal, liner, or bearing between
a shaft and a static part and means to dispose of any working
fluid* leakage.
170.1 for a device having a bearing, seal, or liner between
a nonshaft runner portion and a static part, which bearing,
seal, or liner may also interact with the shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, 5 for devices for
gyroscopic action which have bearings which may be between a
shaft and a casing. See the reference to Class 74 in section
IV of the Class 415 definition for a statement of class
lines.
384, Bearings, for a shaft bearing or guide, per se.
Subclass:
230
Seal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Device wherein
the means prevents or retards the flow of fluid between the
shaft* or shaft covering and the fixed element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
168.2 for a device having means for handling working fluid*
leakage through a seal between a runner* or shaft and a
static part.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
277, Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing
means or process (e.g., seal between a runner* and another
relatively movable part, seal between the two relatively
moving members, does not recite enough details of the rotary
kinetic device, etc.), 345 for a seal between relatively
movable parts (i.e., a dynamic seal).
Subclass:
231
Resiliently biased:
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Device
comprising an element which urges, by spring-type force, the
(seal) means toward a predetermined position.
Subclass:
232
MISCELLANEOUS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device
not provided for in the above subclasses.
(1) Note. Patents directed to particular runner* structure
but properly assignable to Class 415 have been placed in the
Class 415 schedule, where most appropriate (note, in
particular, subclasses 182.1+), and have been cross
referenced to Class 416. See section IV of the Class 415
definitions for a discussion of class lines.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
182.1 for a device comprising working fluid passage or
distributing means for a runner* (e.g., casing*, etc.).
Note, in particular, subclasses 216.1 with specific shaft*
shape or material, 217.1 with runner having corrosion
resistant or nonmetallic portion, and 218.1 with runner
having conical hub including small diameter facing upstream.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
416, Fluid Reaction Surfaces (i.e., Impellers), for
particular runner structure.
CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS
The following subclasses are collections of published
disclosures pertaining to various specified aspects of the
rotary kinetic fluid motor* and pump* art which aspects do
not form appropriate bases for subclasses in the foregoing
classification (i.e., subclasses superior hereto in the
schedule). Only cross-reference patent copies reside in the
cross-reference art collection subclasses; these subclasses
do not contain "original" patent copies. These subclasses may
be of further assistance to the searcher, either as a
starting point in searching this class or as an indication of
further related fields of search inside or outside the class.
Thus, there is here provided a second access for retrieval
of a limited number of types of disclosures.
(1) Note. Disclosures are placed in these subclasses for
their value as references and as leads to appropriate main or
secondary fields of search, without regard to their original
classification or their claimed subject matter.
(2) Note. The disclosures found in the following subclasses
are examples, only, of the indicated subject matter, and in
no instance do they represent the entire extent of the prior
art.
Subclass:
900
ROTARY BLOOD PUMP:
Rotary device which adds energy to working fluid* (i.e.,
"pump"* device) comprising blood.
Subclass:
901
DRILLED WELL-TYPE PUMP:
Rotary device which adds energy to working fluid* (i.e.,
"pump"* device). The device operates to draw working fluid
through a well shaft usually bored into the earth.
(1) Note. The working fluid usually comprises oil, gas,
water, or brine.
Subclass:
902
ROTARY PUMP TURBINE PUBLICATIONS:
Published material, other than patents, relating to a rotary
device which adds energy to working fluid* (i.e., "pump"*
device) or which obtains mechanical power from kinetic or
potential energy in a working fluid (i.e., "motor"* device).
Such material includes magazine articles, company brochures,
text excerpts, etc.
Subclass:
903
WELL BIT DRIVE TURBINE:
Rotary device which obtains mechanical power from kinetic or
potential energy in a working fluid* (i.e., "motor"* device)
to drive a boring cutter for drilling a well shaft, usually
in the earth.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
904 for a motor device for driving a tool other than one for
drilling a well (e.g., dental drill, etc.).
Subclass:
904
TOOL DRIVE TURBINE (E.G., DENTAL DRILL, ETC.):
Rotary device which obtains mechanical power from kinetic or
potential energy in a working fluid* (i.e., "motor"* device)
to drive an implement or tool other than one for drilling a
well shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
903 for a motor device for driving a boring cutter for
drilling a well shaft.
Subclass:
905
NATURAL FLUID CURRENT MOTOR:
Rotary device which obtains mechanical power from kinetic or
potential energy in a flowing, unconfined, and natural
working fluid* such as a wind or water stream (i.e., "motor"*
device).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
2.1 for a natural fluid current motor device with means for
controlling a casing or other flow guiding means in response
to natural fluid current force or direction.
7 for a natural fluid current motor device comprising a
float supported or buoyant runner.
Subclass:
906
Having specific features for water current:
This subclass is indented under subclass 905. Device
comprising structure particularly adapted to a natural water
current environment.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
3.1 for a pump* or motor* with means for controlling casing*
or flow guiding means in response to natural fluid current
force or direction which pump or motor has specific features
for water current.
7 for a device comprising a float supported or buoyant
runner.
Subclass:
907
Vertical runner axis:
This subclass is indented under subclass 905. Device wherein
the runner's* axis of rotation is generally parallel to the
force of gravity acting on the working fluid*.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
4.2 for a rotary pump* or motor* with means for controlling
casing* or flow guiding means in response to natural fluid
current force, which pump or motor has a vertical runner
axis.
4.4 for a rotary pump* or motor* with means for controlling
casing* or flow guiding means in response to natural fluid
current direction, which pump or motor has a vertical runner
axis.
Subclass:
908
Axial flow runner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 905. Device wherein
the working fluid* path to, through, and from the runner* is
predominantly parallel to the runner's axis of rotation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
4.3 for a rotary pump* or motor* with means for controlling
casing* or flow guiding means in response to natural fluid
current force, which pump or motor includes an axial flow
runner.
4.5 for a rotary pump* or motor* with means for controlling
casing* or flow guiding means in response to natural fluid
current direction, which pump or motor includes an axial flow
runner.
Subclass:
909
AIR STACK OR SHAFT HAVING NATURAL FLUID CURRENT MOTOR:
Rotary device comprising a pipe, cylinder, column, or other
conduit through which the working fluid* is nonmechanically
induced to flow. The working fluid flows through the pipe,
cylinder, column, or other conduit to or from a natural body
of air and the device obtains mechanical power from kinetic
or potential energy associated with this flow (i.e., "motor"*
device).
(1) Note. The working fluid current is induced to flow by
nonmechanical means such as by convection, by a naturally
occurring pressure differential, etc.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
2.1 for a natural fluid current motor device with means for
controlling a casing or other flow guiding means in response
to natural fluid current force or direction.
905 for a natural fluid current motor.
Subclass:
910
REVERSIBLE BETWEEN PUMP AND MOTOR USE:
Rotary device which is adapted for use alternately to add
energy to a working fluid* (i.e., "pump"* device) or to
obtain mechanical power from kinetic or potential energy in
the working fluid (i.e., "motor"* device).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
21 for automatically controlled rotary devices many of which
disclose similar convertibility.
Subclass:
911
PUMP HAVING REVERSIBLE RUNNER ROTATION AND SEPARATE OUTLETS
FOR OPPOSING DIRECTIONS OF ROTATION:
Rotary device which adds energy to working fluid* (i.e.,
"pump"* device) and which comprises means to selectively
rotate a runner* in one or an opposite direction. The device
further comprises a working fluid exit means which operates
exclusively when the runner is rotated in one direction, and
a different working fluid exit means which operates
exclusively when the runner is rotated in an opposite
direction.
(1) Note. This collection is not intended to include a
device having a working fluid flow path which is merely
reversed when the runner's direction of rotation is
reversed.
Subclass:
912
INTERCHANGEABLE PARTS TO VARY PUMPING CAPACITY OR SIZE OF
PUMP:
Rotary device which adds energy to working fluid* (i.e.,
"pump"* device) and comprises pieces intended to be exchanged
with other pieces within or separate from the device to
change (a) the maximum or minimum working fluid* flow which
can be handled by the device or (b) working fluid pumping
characteristics of the device.
Subclass:
913
INLET AND OUTLET WITH CONCENTRIC PORTIONS:
Rotary pump* or motor* device comprising working fluid*
entrance and exit passages which (a) extend along a common
axis and (b) are positioned one within another.
Subclass:
914
DEVICE TO CONTROL BOUNDARY LAYER:
Rotary pump* or motor* device comprising particular means to
influence working fluid* immediately adjacent a surface along
which the working fluid flows.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
115 for a device with a passage in a blade*, vane*, shaft*,
or rotary distributor communicating with the working fluid,
which device may include boundary layer control means.
Subclass:
915
PUMP OR PORTION THEREOF BY CASTING OR MOLDING:
Rotary device which adds energy to working fluid* (i.e.,
"pump"* device). The device comprises a part which is
constructed by pouring material into a mold or hollow form.
Subclass:
916
PERPETUAL MOTION DEVICES:
Rotary pump* or motor* device which claims to operate in a
closed environment without a sustaining energy source.
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000