US 12,292,209 B2
Systems, devices, and/or methods for managing condensate
Nicholas Howard Des Champs, Fincastle, VA (US); and Leonardo Brito Manes, Roanoke, VA (US)
Assigned to Des Champs Technologies LLC, Natural Bridge Station, VA (US)
Filed by Des Champs Technologies LLC, Natural Bridge Station, VA (US)
Filed on Oct. 10, 2024, as Appl. No. 18/911,344.
Application 18/911,344 is a continuation of application No. 18/432,372, filed on Feb. 5, 2024, granted, now 12,130,045.
Application 18/432,372 is a continuation of application No. 18/386,782, filed on Nov. 3, 2023, granted, now 11,906,197, issued on Feb. 20, 2024.
Application 18/386,782 is a continuation of application No. 18/345,392, filed on Jun. 30, 2023, granted, now 11,808,482, issued on Nov. 7, 2023.
Prior Publication US 2025/0035333 A1, Jan. 30, 2025
This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.
Int. Cl. F24F 13/22 (2006.01)
CPC F24F 13/222 (2013.01) 15 Claims
OG exemplary drawing
 
1. An automatic condensate release device configured to operably selectively release condensate received from a condensate-producing unit, the automatic condensate release device comprising:
a substantially spherical valve that defines a valve outer surface;
an elongate housing defining:
a condensate reservoir;
a valve chamber configured to operably contain the valve; and
a condensate release port configured to operably convey condensate from the condensate reservoir into the valve chamber;
a valve seat configured to, when in contact with the valve outer surface, operably form a fluidic seal of the condensate release port; and
a spring located substantially within the valve chamber and configured to operably bias the valve toward the valve seat;
wherein:
the housing defines a longitudinal housing axis, a first housing portion, and a second housing portion;
the housing defines a lock configured to operably secure the first housing portion to the second housing portion, the lock comprising:
at least two elongate arms that have shape memory, each arm defining a first locking surface; and
a second locking surface, wherein the first locking surface is configured to operably non-destructively releasably, lockingly engage with the second locking surface, such that each first locking surface contacts, bears on, opposes, and/or extends substantially parallel to, its second locking surface.