Fluid-flow-control-switch valve

Claim 1

A fluid-flow-control-valve device, comprising: a housing defining an elongated flow passage, and an integrally, formed sealed switch compartment; a one-way-valve means positioned in said flow passage to allow fluid to flow in one direction through said flow passage, wherein said vlave comprises: a valve seat mounted in said flow passage and having inlet and outlet openings; a flap-valve member hingedly attached adjacent said valve seat and positioned over said outlet opening thereof, so as to allow fluid flow in one direction; a first magnetic member affixed to said flap valve; switch means located within said switch compartment; a flap member hingedly mounted in said switch compartment and positioned therein to seat against the outside wall of the conduit portion defining a switch-compartment base, and adapted to pivot upwardly in a substantially parallel relationship within said fluid passage; a second magnetic member forming at least part of said flap member and positioned thereon to be aligned with said first magnetic member of said flap valve, whereby said flap member is caused to move in engagement with said switch means when said first magnetic member is positioned adjacent said second magnetic member; and response-adjusting means adapted to control the responsive movement of said flap member and said switch means; wherein said response-adjusting means comprises: a shoulder plate affixed to said flap member; a set screw adjustably mounted to said housing of said sealed compartment; and a spring interposed between said shoulder plate and said set screw, whereby adjustable force is applied to said flap member, in order to allow said flap valve to move to a predetermined open position before said flap member engages said switch.