Patents by Inventor Robert J. Smyrl

Robert J. Smyrl has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20140097274
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a sprinkler assembly that includes a sprinkler head and a fitting. The fitting has a recess in a distal end for receiving a pipe end. The fitting also has a sealing ring in the recess to provide a fluid-tight seal between the sprinkler head and the pipe end upon installation of the pipe. In one embodiment, the pipe is installed by pushing the pipe end into the fitting (i.e., pushing actuates the fitting). In another embodiment, the pipe is installed by inserting the pipe end into the fitting and using a tool to press-actuate the fitting. During installation, a sharp-edged grip-ring or grab-ring in the recess of the fitting, which in some embodiments has a plurality of teeth, engages the outer surface of the pipe end, holding the pipe securely in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: Elkhart Products Corporation, c/o Aalberts Industries N.V.
    Inventor: Robert J. Smyrl