Abstract: An automatic positioning system that includes positioning means for positioning a hose assembly adjacent a crimping apparatus. Actuator means is in communication with the positioning means to cause the positioning means to move. Control means is in communication with the actuator means to control movement of the positioning means. The method of the present invention includes the steps of: (a) actuating a positioning means to cause the positioning means to move; (b) controlling movement of the positioning means by control means so that the positioning means is in proper position with respect to a crimping apparatus; and (c) placing a hose assembly on the positioning means.

Abstract: A conduit assembly for natural gas lines utilized at transition locations wherein a synthetic plastic gas supply tube connects to a meter or other fitting located above the ground level. The lead-in assembly utilizes a fitting having a rigid elongated nipple to which a polyethylene tube is sealed by means of a crimped socket; and a convoluted metal hose attached at one end to the fitting, and sealed at the other end to the polyethylene tube, encompasses the nipple and tube providing effective protection thereof, yet permits the assembly to be readily bent and formed by hand without kinking of the tube.

Abstract: A self-sealing quick disconnect coupling for detachably connecting a pair of fluid conveying conduits to each other while either or both conduits are subject to high internal fluid pressure. The coupling includes a pair of body members each containing a normally closed valve wherein one of the body members is provided with a valve operating mechanism which permits the valve of each member to remain in its closed position during interconnection of the members. After interconnection of the body members, the valve operating mechanism then permits and assists the valve of each body member to move to its open position whereat the valves of both members are interlocked to one of the body members to prevent closing of either or both valves during fluid flow through the coupling in its connected state, particularly when surges of high fluid pressure occur.

Abstract: A filtering unit for use in a fluid pressure system having an inlet port for admitting fluid flowing under pressure through a filter and a desiccant bed to a distributing chamber. During the system's compression cycle, a portion of the fluid under pressure flows from the distributing chamber through metering orifices into a purge cylinder moving a piston therein to the bottom of the purge cylinder. During the system's purging cycle, fluid flowing under pressure is admitted to the bottom of the purge cylinder moving the piston towards the metering orifices causing the pressurized fluid therein to flow at a constant rate in a reverse direction through the filter and desiccant bed into a sump which is exhausted to the atmosphere through a drain valve for renewing the filter and desiccant bed. Also , a one-way valve is provided between the inlet port and the distributing chamber to permit the fluid flowing under pressure to bypass the filter and desiccant bed in the event they become clogged.

Abstract: A seal for fluid tight sealing between a shaft and a member having an opening through which the shaft extends. The member includes a sealing surface perpendicularly disposed to the shaft axis and the seal is of a homogeneous "right angle" construction having hub and flange portions. An inwardly extending continuous lip establishes a seal between the hub and shaft, while an annular ridge defined on the flange engaging the member sealing surface sealingly engages the surface whereby a sealed relationship exists between the shaft and member regardless of the presence of eccentricity therebetween during shaft rotation or linear displacement. Seal positioning means maintain the flanged ridge in engagement with the member sealing surface and annular spring means are employed upon the hub to bias the lip into engagement with the shaft.