With Casing, Support, Protector Or Static Constructional Installations Patents (Class 137/343)
  • Publication number: 20090194172
    Abstract: A cover for a box containing a fluid includes a top panel with a tuck flap. A perforated end of the tuck flap is coupled to a detachable attachment along a perforated line. The attachment includes instructions for forming the cover and also includes user-fillable labels. When the cover is in an assembled state, the perforated line forms a perforated edge that is tucked between panels of the cover and therefore hidden from view. A front panel of the cover includes an opening having edges. At least portions of the edges are inserted into a peripheral slot of a spigot that is coupled to a bladder contained in the box to provide additional support to the spigot and secure the cover to the box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Applicant: TARGET BRANDS, INC.
    Inventors: Kimberly J. Lymn, Holly A. Robbins, Kelly N. Esterby, Gary L. Sotebeer, Carol Ann Sylvester
  • Publication number: 20090165865
    Abstract: A flexible fluid delivery line with an end fitting retention bracket is disclosed for use during installation of an irrigation or sprinkler system. The retention bracket is malleable along its length and facilitates the positioning and orientation of a sprinkler head or other fluid delivery device with respect to the surrounding ground level. The retention bracket has two annular sleeves connected by a malleable elongate member. Through the pair of annular sleeves passes a semi-flexible riser. The annular sleeves are configured to substantially match the external circumference of the end fittings and retain the fitting therein. The retention bracket may be bent to suit various installation angles. The retention bracket prevents undesired turning or displacement of the end fittings during installation/use/removal of a sprinkler head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Frank Parker
  • Patent number: 7543856
    Abstract: A tubing connecting device for a fluid carrying tube having a flat portion with an aperture therethrough includes a coupling body having a first port and a second port that are in fluid communication, a planar surface on the coupling body, surrounding the first port and configured to engage the flat portion of the tube with the first port in fluid communication with the aperture. A strap is affixed at both ends to the coupling body and is configured to engage the tube and hold the coupling body in place on the flat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Mueller Gas Products
    Inventor: Mark Thomas Lang
  • Publication number: 20080308476
    Abstract: A conduit end cap structure (e.g., a floor drain assembly) that is securely attached to the conduit and aesthetically pleasing. The end cap of the conduit comprises a perforated plate. Anchor supports extend from the substantially concealed underside of the plate, each providing support for an anchor that is received by an anchor receiving structure on the conduit to securely attach the plate to the conduit near its opening. The anchor may be in the form of a fastener (e.g., a set screw), and the anchor receiving structure is in the form of a channel provided on the inside wall of the conduit opening. The fastener extends into the channel, thereby securely retaining the plate to prevent it from dislodging from the conduit end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventors: Jeffrey Silverstein, Frederick Desborough
  • Patent number: 7458784
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a suitcase style air compressor assembly having an extensible handle bar assembly and a wheel assembly. When the extensible handle bar assembly is fully extended, the suitcase style air compressor assembly may be transported by utilizing the extensible handle bar assembly and the wheel assembly. When the suitcase style air compressor assembly reaches a worksite, the extensible handle bar assembly may be retracted so that the suitcase style air compressor assembly does not occupy a large space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen J. Vos, Lance Hathcock
  • Patent number: 7451779
    Abstract: A universal mounting bracket is provided for coplanar and bi-planar differential pressure (DP) transmitters, and gauge pressure transmitters. The bracket includes a support defining a plurality of planes, with at least two sets of bracket mounts disposed on mutually orthogonal planes. At least two sets of coplanar DP transmitter mounts are also disposed on mutually orthogonal planes, and at least one set of bi-planar DP transmitter mounts is configured for mounting the bi-planar DP transmitter in any one of a plurality of mutually orthogonal orientations. The bracket also includes at least two sets of gauge pressure transmitter mounts on mutually orthogonal planes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Invensys Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard P. Casimiro, Steven D. Lantagne
  • Publication number: 20080210311
    Abstract: A mounting arrangement for mounting at least one rotary valve to a drive shaft is provided, where the drive shaft includes at least one mounting hole at a predetermined position therein. The mounting arrangement may include at least one rotary valve having a curved portion and two side portions. The arrangement may also include a central passage passing through the two side portions that is shaped to allow the drive shaft to extend therethrough. The rotary valve may also include a mounting opening, opening towards the central passage at a predetermined position. The arrangement may include a mounting element extending through the mounting opening of the rotary valve into the mounting hole in the drive shaft, to mount the rotary valve to the drive shaft at a predetermined position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Inventor: Martin W. Dirker
  • Publication number: 20080185048
    Abstract: A fuel tank for a power generator set. The fuel tank includes an angled surface that directs cooling air from the power generator set at a direction out of the generator set enclosure. In some embodiments, the fuel tank is centrally located between a pair of generator sets within a single enclosure. The fuel tank is configured in some embodiments to direct air upward out of the enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Tyson Mellon, Shawn Stachler, Joseph Willis
  • Patent number: 7406981
    Abstract: Liquid discharge apparatus, particularly useful as a portable inoculation gun for anti-virus inoculation of plants, includes a housing having a handle at one end configured for convenient grasping by a user, a nozzle at the opposite end for discharging liquid from a discharge opening therein, and a maniputable member manually actuatable to produce a discharge of liquid from the nozzle. The nozzle includes a gas passageway communicating with the discharge opening, and a liquid passageway communicating with the gas passageway. A gas delivery system is actuatable by the maniputable member to discharge gas at high-velocity through the discharge opening via the gas passageway. A liquid source communicates with the liquid passageway in the nozzle such that each high-velocity discharge of gas from the nozzle via the gas passageway draws a quantity of liquid from the liquid source into the gas passageway and discharges it at high-velocity with the gas through the discharge opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Bio-Oz Biotechnologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Rony Hemo, Italy Maoz, Yarden Dloomy, Gal Yarden
  • Publication number: 20080168765
    Abstract: In a V-type engine, throttle devices are disposed between front and rear cylinders disposed in a V-shape, and an air cleaner is disposed above the throttle device. A secondary air pipe is connected to a secondary air entrance portion formed in an outer peripheral wall surface of each of the cylinders. A secondary air on-off valve is disposed below the throttle device, and the secondary air on-off valve is provided so as to be substantially accommodated in a V-bank space between the cylinders. A secondary air inlet of the secondary air on-off valve is connected to the air cleaner by the secondary air source pipe extended upward, a secondary air pipe for each cylinder is connected to the secondary air outlet for each cylinder, and the secondary air outlet for each cylinder is formed in the secondary air on-off valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Kuji, Akinobu Wakabayashi
  • Patent number: 7387316
    Abstract: A portable tank apparatus has a yoke pivotal on a transverse member between a service towing position and a raised position, and a pair of hingedly connected brace members at the rear of the apparatus and operable by an actuator to retract the wheels or lower the wheels to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Inventor: Keril M. Keiser
  • Publication number: 20080136174
    Abstract: A tubing connecting device for a fluid carrying tube having a flat portion with an aperture therethrough includes a coupling body having a first port and a second port that are in fluid communication, a planar surface on the coupling body, surrounding the first port and configured to engage the flat portion of the tube with the first port in fluid communication with the aperture. A strap is affixed at both ends to the coupling body and is configured to engage the tube and hold the coupling body in place on the flat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: Mueller Gas Products
    Inventor: Mark Thomas Lang
  • Publication number: 20080105306
    Abstract: A filtration device, which can be installed at a relatively low place below the full water level of a storage tank, is obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2005
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Applicant: TOTETU MFG. CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Seiichiro Takai
  • Publication number: 20080078452
    Abstract: A damper device may include a frame provided with an opening part, a baffle turnably supported on the frame, and a drive unit for turnably driving the baffle to open and close the opening part. The drive unit may include an output member whose tip end side is provided with an engagement part with the baffle and which is linearly advanced and retreated to and from the baffle to turnably drive the baffle. Further, the damper device includes a wall part provided between the driving part and the baffle and formed with an output hole part through which the output member is penetrated. The engagement part is located apart from a first moving extended axis which is formed by movement of the output member penetrating through the output hole part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2007
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Applicant: NIDEC SANKYO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Tokuyuki Akabane
  • Patent number: 7350537
    Abstract: A valve mounting bracket that has generally opposing first and second clamping components to hold a valve body in position relative to the bracket. The first clamping component is positioned to engage the valve body and bias the valve body into rigid contact with the second clamping component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventor: John P. Honermann
  • Publication number: 20080072966
    Abstract: A damper device may include a frame, a baffle turnably supported on the frame, a drive unit for turnably driving the baffle, a first and a second turnable support parts for supporting the baffle on the frame, and a mechanical connecting part between the drive unit and the baffle which is structured at a position apart from a turning center axial line of the baffle. The first and second turnable support parts are structured by using a shaft part made of resin which is formed in one of the baffle and the frame, and a shaft hole which is formed in the other of the baffle and the frame. A passage through which cold air is passed is opened and closed by the baffle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Applicant: NIDEC SANKYO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Tokuyuki Akabane
  • Patent number: 7322616
    Abstract: A tubing connecting device for a fluid carrying tube having a flat portion with an aperture therethrough includes a coupling body having a first port and a second port that are in fluid communication, a planar surface on the coupling body, surrounding the first port and configured to engage the flat portion of the tube with the first port in fluid communication with the aperture. A strap is affixed at both ends to the coupling body and is configured to engage the tube and hold the coupling body in place on the flat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Mueller Gas Products
    Inventor: Mark T Lang
  • Patent number: 7191794
    Abstract: An assembly for mounting a tub/shower mixing valve onto a fiberglass shower stall wall. The assembly comprises a valve mounting sleeve and a locking plate that helps secure the mounting sleeve to the shower stall wall. Alternatively, the mounting sleeve may be secured to the shower stall wall by bolts threadably connected to the mounting sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventor: B. Eugene Hodges
  • Patent number: 7017602
    Abstract: A water diverter has a double hose connection, a spigot and an outdoor light all mounted on a movable stake for providing an extra faucet at any desired location. The diverter allows a hose connection to another location, such as a recreational vehicle water supply, thereby extending the water source. The light on the water diverter is automatic, turning on at dusk, providing illumination that is required for safety and security purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: Lee A. Garver
  • Patent number: 7004190
    Abstract: A protective collar for protecting the outside drop of a manhole having a U shaped housing extending from the outside wall of the manhole around the outside drop pipes and back to the outside wall. The protective collar having flanges at each end of the U shaped collar for attaching the collar to the outside wall of the manhole. The U shaped collar, having grooves on the inside for attaching rings, which surround the outside drop pipes. The rings having inside diameters, which vary to fit the size of pipe used by the outside drop such that are size collar works with any size outside drop pipe. An elbow attached to the outside of the manhole wall and to the protective collar such that the outside drop pipe connects to the elbow. Thus the outside drop is totally protected from being moved relative to the manhole which may cause leaks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventor: Julian P. Trangsrud
  • Patent number: 6976502
    Abstract: A tank has an enlarged cylindrical lower section a small tubular upper section. A hemispherical middle section is provided between the lower and upper sections. A gas dispensing hose has an inner end attached to the upper section and an outer free end. A support assembly has an interior component with an inner long leg and an outer long leg with an inner bend there between. The support assembly also has an exterior component with an inner short leg and an outer short leg with an outer bend there between. The support assembly also has a lateral leg integrally formed with the upper end of the inner long leg and an outer curvature removably coupled to the tubular upper section adjacent to the semi-hemispherical section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Inventors: Warren A. Bibow, Christopher W. Bibow
  • Patent number: 6834679
    Abstract: A transfer line for the transfer of fluid or powder-like substances from one or more sources to an outlet characterized in that the transfer line comprises at least one movable section, optionally including associated equipment such as one or more pumps or filters. The movable line section to be cleaned is coupled to a cleaning station. Water for a first washing is transferred through the movable line section and preferably at least for a part recirculated a number of times. The used water is drained off. Fresh water for a second washing is transferred through the movable line section. After transferring the used water from the second wash tank into the first wash tank, water from a third wash tank is transferred through the movable line section to the first wash tank. The washings collected in the first wash tank can be reused as a first washing for a next movable line section to be cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Akzo Nobel N.V.
    Inventor: Kevin Briggs
  • Patent number: 6820638
    Abstract: An air manifold apparatus for supplying pressurized air to a plurality of air lines having an enclosure with an air inlet for receiving pressurized air from a pressurized air source and a plurality of air outlets for providing pressurized air to a plurality of air lines. The inlet and the outlets are each connectable to an air hose connector for communicating pressurized air between the enclosure and the air lines. A plurality of U-shaped bars are connected to the ends of the enclosure and extend outwardly away from the enclosure to protect the air hose connectors from damage and to act as a handle and a stand for the air manifold apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: J.G.T.W. Enterprises, L.L.C.
    Inventor: John R. Gosinski
  • Patent number: 6782915
    Abstract: A valve and tank enclosure assembly for use on a snowplow that includes a frame, a valve assembly, a tank, and a cover. The frame and cover of the enclosure cooperate to provide a seal from water spray. Hydraulic lines within the enclosure are routed such that moisture is prevented from contacting the valve assembly. The tank is mounted within the frame at three-locations and elevated so that forces from vehicle operation are isolated from acting upon the tank. The assembly also includes a pivoting shelf supporting the valve assembly, the pivoting shelf providing wide-open access to the valve assembly from a range of directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Force America Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Van Wie
  • Patent number: 6732757
    Abstract: An improved water-treatment canister configuration of the chemical-dispensing bypass type, employing a screw-cap for periodic replenishment of an active chemical-feed ingredient; —featuring a special EZ-PURGE™ push-button bleed-valve device, enabling more convenient means by which to quickly and reliably release air otherwise remaining debilitatingly-captive within the canister upon replacement of the screw-cap during routine-maintance. An collar like security/cap-lock device employing a conventional padlock, serves as an antitamper-device, while an “Emergency Service”—label is also included, whereby an inexperienced person can simply deactivate the metering-system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventor: Roger A. Benham
  • Publication number: 20040074536
    Abstract: A support structure of a control board has a control board including a plurality of attaching holes disposed at respective corners of an imaginary polygon; a support member for supporting the control board; and a plurality of support bosses disposed on the support member, a plurality of support bosses each having a support portion in contact with one face of the control board, and an engaging portion inserted into the attaching hole and engaged with other face of the control board, wherein each of the engaging portions is formed with a split groove in a shape of a straight line opened at a front end thereof and the respective support bosses are provided at the support member by avoiding the split grooves of the support bosses disposed at two ends of straight lines connecting the corners of the imaginary polygon from being disposed on the same straight lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Motoyasu Nakamura
  • Patent number: 6718997
    Abstract: A metering and pressure reduction piping system is prefabricated with backbone piping supported by a frame and a plurality of spool pieces that are interchanged at the site with selected metering and valve sections. The interchangeable piping sections having a common length and are connectable to the backbone piping via standardized interface flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Trigen Boston Energy Corporation
    Inventor: Raymond Biszko
  • Patent number: 6695003
    Abstract: A gas isolation box including an enclosure; a number of gas sticks contained within the enclosure, each gas stick including a process gas section comprising a first process gas inlet valve for gating the flow of a process gas into the gas stick; a purge gas section including a purge valve for gating the flow of a purge gas into the gas stick; and an evacuation section including a first evacuation valve for gating the exiting of a process gas or a purge gas from the gas stick, a bleed valve which in a closed position allows process gas to bleed through the bleed valve and in an open position allows purge gas to freely flow through the bleed valve, and a vacuum generator module which pulls a vacuum to evacuate a purge gas or any remaining process gas in the gas stick or the tool through the first evacuation valve and the bleed valve and out from the gas stick to an exhaust stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Robert Raymond Young, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6695002
    Abstract: A collar for supporting or protecting pipes on an outside drop adjacent a manhole is provided. A plurality of stacked collar sections can protect pipes comprising the outside drop. Alternatively a plurality of collar segments having a circular wall within can form the pipe integrally with the collar. The collars can protect riser pipe sections or elbow piper sections. The collars may be split for ease of installation around pipes and fastened together around the pipe. The collars are easily attached to the manhole by drilling a hole into the manhole at designated places and using bolts through tabs on the collars to hold the collar in place adjacent the manhole. The collars can have several different standard heights and be stacked to the desired height of the manhole. Pipes having riser sections or elbow sections can have protective collars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Royal Environmental Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Julian P. Trangsrud
  • Patent number: 6648020
    Abstract: A fluid control apparatus comprises lines A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, B1, B2, B3 each removably attached to a substrate 1 by a plurality of brackets 8, 9, 18, 19, 20, and channel communication means 47, 48 which are removable upward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Fujikin Incorporated
    Inventors: Hideki Fujimoto, Noboru Uzawa, Naoyuki Sato, Michio Yamaji, Shigeaki Tanaka, Yuji Kawano, Yasuyuki Omata, Masakazu Fukui
  • Patent number: 6649055
    Abstract: A pump station for transferring radioactive particle containing waste water, includes: (a.) an enclosed sump having a vertically elongated right frusto conical wall surface and a bottom surface and (b.) a submersible volute centrifugal pump having a horizontally rotating impeller and a volute exterior surface. The sump interior surface, the bottom surface and the volute exterior surface are made of stainless steel having a 30 Ra or finer surface finish. A 15 Ra finish has been found to be most cost effective. The pump station is used for transferring waste water, without accumulation of radioactive fines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventors: John P. Whitton, Dean M. Klos, Danny T. Carrara, John J. Minno
  • Patent number: 6644341
    Abstract: The present invention relates to multi-barrel plant inoculation gun for a rapid large-scale plant and virus inoculation comprising (a) liquid container for inoculum solution (27); (b) compressed-gas source; (c) at least one compressed gas fast-discharge-container (28) having a gas inlet (34) connected to the compressed-gas source, and a gas outlet connected to a gas fast-discharge-valve; (29) (d) plurality of jet-injection units (35) each comprised of a body (20) having a liquid inlet (24) connected to the liquid container (27), gas inlet (23) connected to the gas fast-discharge (29) and a jet-outlet (21) internally connected to the liquid and gas inlets, (e) control unit for triggering-on the fast-discharge-valve; (f) chassis for positioning and supporting said elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Bio-Oz Advanced Biotechnological Agriculture Ltd.
    Inventors: Ronen Chemo, Itai Maoz, Gal Yarden
  • Patent number: 6615858
    Abstract: A water valve assembly includes a valve body having defined therein (i) an inlet, (ii) an outlet, (iii) a central cavity, and (iv) a component access opening, wherein fluid advancing into the valve body through the inlet must pass through the central cavity before exiting out of the valve body through the outlet, and further wherein the component access opening is configured so that a valve component may be advanced into the central cavity through the component access opening. The water valve assembly further includes a retaining bracket having a retaining portion positioned in relation to the valve body so as to block advancement of the valve component from the central cavity to a location outside of the valve body through the component access opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Michael R. DuHack, Eugene A. Ritter, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6539971
    Abstract: A technique of assembling a solenoid operated valve to a hydraulic manifold in which the manifold has provided thereon undercut stanchions disposed on opposite sides of a cavity communicating with fluid valving passages. A U-shaped bracket with a central aperture is received over the solenoid and a first pair of tabs which engage lugs disposed respectively on opposite sides of the valve body function to prevent relative rotation between the bracket and valve. The bracket has a pair of oppositely extending resiliently deflectable spring arms each having a pair of second tabs thereon; and, the spring arms are deflected on the stanchions upon user insertion of the valve body into the cavity. The spring arms resiliently engage the undercuts to prevent removal of the valve, and the second tabs engage the sides of the stanchions to prevent relative rotation of the bracket and valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Jorge A. Moreno, Charles Chang
  • Patent number: 6539972
    Abstract: An arrangement of pipelines of a high-pressure distribution network for liquid operating media, such as lubricants, coolants, and hydraulic pressure media for control members or drives, for a roll stand having a roll housing. The pipelines are supply pipelines, discharge pipelines, and distribution pipelines, wherein the roll stand has several consumers connected to the high-pressure distribution network for the liquid operating media. The supply lines and the discharge lines are combined to form modules of groups of pipelines mountable on the roll stand. The nominal pressure of the operating media is standardized within the pipelines of the high-pressure distribution network to a value of approximately 290 bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: SMS Schloemann-Siemag Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Frank Benner, Harald Rackel, Friedhelm Reimann, Heinz Hopfenziz, Helmut Stötzel, Heinz Trudewind, Walter Nietsch
  • Patent number: 6527005
    Abstract: An apparatus for diverting condensate which forms inside an exhaust system. The exhaust system comprises an exhaust side in which condensate may be formed, a suction side, and an exhaust fan between the exhaust side and the suction side and coupled to each of the exhaust side and the suction side to form a conduit through which gaseous fluid may be conveyed. A hollow tube having a first open end and a second open end is provided. The first end is coupled to the exhaust side and the second end is coupled to the suction side so that the hollow tube communicates between the exhaust side and the suction side in a manner bypassing the exhaust fan. A means exists inside the exhaust side for diverting condensate away from the exhaust fan apparatus. The means is positioned to channel condensate into the first open end of the hollow tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Radon Control, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven K. Weaver
  • Patent number: 6526699
    Abstract: A water holding and dispersing apparatus for catching and retaining rainwater for later watering usage. The water holding and dispersing apparatus includes a housing having a top wall, a bottom wall, a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall and a second side wall. The housing comprises a substantially rigid material. A supply pipe is positioned nearer the top wall than the bottom wall and has a first end fluidly coupled to the housing. A second end of the supply pipe is fluidly coupled to a gutter of a dwelling such that water in the gutter will flow into the housing through the supply pipe. A first drainage pipe is fluidly coupled to the first side wall and is located generally adjacent to the bottom wall. The first drainage pipe has a valve thereon for selectively opening and closing the first drainage pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Steve J. Foglio, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6484747
    Abstract: A medical gas utility stand for connection to at least one remote medical gas source, each medical gas source detachably connectable to a gas conduit line so that the gas conduit line is in fluid communication with one medical gas source. The gas utility stand includes a base connected to a substantially upright support member. The gas utility stand also includes a gas connection member having at least one gas conduit defining a gas passage extending between an input end and an output end, the gas connection member fixedly connected to the support member adjacent its top end. Additionally, the gas utility stand has at least one pair of identical gas fittings, each gas fitting defining a bore extending between an attachment end and a securing end, the securing ends of one pair of identical gas fittings detachably secured to the opposing input end and output end of one gas conduit so that the bores of the pair of identical gas fittings are in communication with the gas passage of the gas conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Jerry S. Bridgers
  • Patent number: 6431203
    Abstract: An actuator mounting device for mounting an actuator having an actuator housing to a support structure associated with a fluid flow control unit. The actuator mounting device includes a mounting bracket and a pair of guide members. The mounting bracket includes a pair of spaced side walls, a rail extending from each side wall, and a stop. The pair of spaced side walls define a leading end and a trailing end. Further, each of the side walls has a base portion securable to the support structure. Finally, the stop is positioned at the trailing end of the spaced side walls. The pair of guide members are each configured to be mountable to an opposing side of the actuator housing and each include an engagement surface configured to slidably engage one of said rails. During assembly of the actuator to the support structure, the rails direct the guide members to a secured position at which the actuator housing is connected to the stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Hexiang Zhu, Robert C. Knutson
  • Patent number: 6422258
    Abstract: A water valve assembly includes a valve body having defined therein a central cavity and a bracket-receiving opening. The valve assembly also includes a first valve component positioned in the central cavity of the valve body. Moreover, the water valve assembly includes a retaining bracket having a flange which has a crimped end portion defined therein. The flange is positioned in the bracket-receiving opening so as to retain the first valve component in the central cavity of the valve opening. The crimped end portion of the flange contacts the valve body so as to retain the flange in the bracket-receiving opening. A method of making an appliance water valve assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Michael R. DuHack, Eugene A. Ritter, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6412515
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pressure transducer assembly (1; 24; 39) on a process circuit (2; 29, 30; 48, 49) as is used in a process plant, whereby the process circuit (2; 29, 30; 48, 49) is capable of carrying a hot fluid. Furthermore at least one fluid carrying measuring line (5; 26, 27; 40, 41) is provided between the process circuit (2; 29, 30; 48, 49) and a valve (4) of the pressure transducer (3; 25; 42), and/or transducer. Furthermore first and second flange connections (6, 10; 31, 32; 44) are provided between connections on the process line 9)2; 29; 30) and the fluid measuring line (5; 26, 27; 40, 41) as well as between the valve (4) and the fluid measuring line (5; 26, 27; 40, 41). These flange connections are connected to each other by means of nuts and bolts (9, 13; 38).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Inventor: Martin Hess
  • Patent number: 6397883
    Abstract: An equipment skid for mounting ancillary equipment to support a semiconductor processing tool. The equipment skid comprises a plurality of equipment sections and a service section. The ancillary equipment is mounted within the equipment sections and the plurality of equipment and service sections are connected to one another in an in-line relationship to define a framework to allow external connections between the ancillary equipment and the semiconductor processing tool to pass through a region overlying the footprint of the service section. The equipment and service sections are preferably covered by an enclosure to contain leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: The BOC Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Graeme Huntley, Kate Wilson
  • Patent number: 6286546
    Abstract: A dual seal system for retrofitting existing vapor deposition apparatus for starter tubes has a first tubular member which surrounds the chemical vapor delivery tube and forms a channel therewith for passage of starter tube gases to a stationary seal coupling member which, in turn, is connected to monitoring apparatus. A second tubular member surrounds the first tubular member and forms a passage therewith extending from behind a seal assembly in the starter tube to a bore in the coupling member connected to a buffer gas supply. The second tubular member also forms a third passageway with the interior wall of the arbor driving the starter tube and is held spaced therefrom by a perforated support member. The third passageway extends from a region behind the sealing system to a sealed buffer chamber in the coupling member, which is connected to a low pressure of vacuum source and to a pressure monitoring member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Michael Mueller
  • Patent number: 6286537
    Abstract: A thermally-actuated switch assembly is capable of controlling an associated device in the event of a sensed temperature exceeding a predetermined threshold. A first switch in the form of for example a fuse is used to sense the temperature to which the device is sensitive. The first switch is carried by a housing which also carries a second switch. The second switch is arranged such that it is actuated if the housing is mounted on a support in a predetermined orientation. The first and second switches are connected to an output and arranged such that the output indicates an alarm condition if either the first switch is actuated or the second switch is not actuated. Thus one switch is used to sense the temperature, and the other switch is used to sense whether or not the switch assembly as a whole is correctly positioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Ruskin Air Management Limited
    Inventors: Michael Backham, Kevin Munson, Alan Neal, Charles Shillitoe
  • Patent number: 6230585
    Abstract: A bracket for securing a solenoid to a vehicle transmission includes a clamp portion adapted to reach over and engage an outer end of the solenoid to releasably attach the bracket to the solenoid and secure the solenoid to the transmission. The bracket also includes an anchor portion adapted to attach the bracket to the transmission, and a support structure connecting the clamp portion to the anchor portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Rostra Precision Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce C. Bator
  • Patent number: 6206035
    Abstract: A safety system for use in a motor vehicle fuel system in which fuel flow components generate electrostatic charges. The system includes a fuel pump that has a housing that is electrically connected to ground potential and an electrically conductive safety device that connects each fuel flow component to the fuel pump housing for discharging static electricity to ground through the fuel pump housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Mannesmann VDO AG
    Inventors: Holger Wehner, Jürgen Ehinger
  • Patent number: 6202674
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for mounting a composite pressure vessel to a vehicle includes a saddle having a curved surface extending between two pillars for receiving the vessel. The saddle also has flanged portions which can be bolted to the vehicle. Each of the pillars has hole in which is mounted the shaft portion of an attachment member. A resilient member is disposed between each of the shaft portions and the holes and loaded by a tightening nut. External to the holes, each of the attachment members has a head portion to which a steel band is attached. The steel band circumscribes the vessel and translates the load on the springs into a clamping force on the vessel. As the vessel expands and contracts, the resilient members expand and contract so that the clamping force applied by the band to the vessel remains constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: AlliedSignal Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Wingett
  • Patent number: 6176262
    Abstract: Different functional control manifolds, adapted for specific process and test applications, are selectively mounted on a common base manifold which independently provides sealing of the process lines of a fluid handling system. This enables a specific functional control manifold such as a single block and controlled vent manifold, a single block and vent manifold, or a double block and bleed cross-over manifold, to be preassembled with a test instrument prior to installation of the test instrument to the base manifold. Each embodiment of the functional control manifold is designed so that the sensing cavities of the test instrument are able to fully drain through the functional control manifold into the base manifold, thereby eliminating a potential source of error during calibration of the test instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: Spencer M. Nimberger
  • Patent number: 6170516
    Abstract: A solenoid valve fixing structure, which allows cheaply to improve the working performance of the fixing process and compactness of the fixing, without changing the design of the external form of the existing solenoid valve. The solenoid valve fixing structure includes a recessing portion (6) disposed on an intake manifold (5), for receiving a solenoid valve (1), and a fixing member (4) having a fixing part (4a) to be fixed to the solenoid valve, a deformable lip (4d), which is an elongated portion of the fixing part to contact elastically with the recessing portion, and an insertion lip (4f), which is another elongated portion of the fixing part and is to be inserted into the recessing portion (6). A solenoid valve (1) can be fixed to the intake manifold (5) strongly and promptly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Akira Sakata, Tatsuya Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 6170518
    Abstract: Apparatus for holding and transporting high pressure rescue air bag system components includes a rigid framework having a base member and a stanchion extending upwardly from the base member. The apparatus incorporates structure which releasably retains the deadman switch, the high pressure regulator and regulator gauge and high pressure air bottle of the system in place for transport by an individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventor: James L. Ratelle