With Running Joint Between Movable Parts Of System Patents (Class 137/580)
  • Patent number: 11511140
    Abstract: A system may include a manifold. The manifold may include a body and a rupture disc. The body may include first connector connected to a pressurized source, a second connector, and a third connector. The body may include hollow pathway network including a first path portion extending from the pressurized source to a pathway junction, a second path portion extending from the pathway junction to the second connector, and a third path portion extending from the pathway junction to the third connector. The first path portion may include a bend. The rupture disc may be positioned between the bend and the pathway junction. When the rupture disc is in an unruptured state, the rupture disc may seal the first path portion from the other path portions. When the rupture disc is in a ruptured state, the rupture disc may allow a flow from the pressurized source to the third connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel J. Jason, George J. Papanastasiou, Maurice E. Zimmerman, Kyle Roth
  • Patent number: 11066252
    Abstract: A suction gripping device includes a support arm and a head with at least one suction gripping element mounted translatably along the support arm. The head has an inlet and a channelling system to place the inlet and the gripping element in communication. The device further includes a manifold maintained in depression, a seal along a side of the device to maintain the inside of the manifold in depression, and a fluid distributor group interposed between the inlet in the head and the side and borne by the head so as to be slidable along the side. A spacer is provided for distancing and keeping a portion of the seal distanced from the side so as to maintain the channelling system in depression for activation in suction of the gripping element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2021
    Assignee: I.M.A. INDUSTRIA MACCHINE AUTOMATICHE S.P.A
    Inventors: Gianluca Fortini, Massimo Pacifici
  • Patent number: 10900570
    Abstract: A seal assembly for a rotary machine is positioned between a rotating component and a stationary component of the rotary machine. The seal assembly includes a seal bearing face that opposes the rotating component and a slide device. The slide device is positioned between different fluid pressure volumes in the rotary machine. The slide device axially moves toward the rotating component responsive to pressurization of the rotary machine. The slide device includes cross-over ports and the seal bearing face includes feed ports. The feed ports extend through the seal bearing face to form an aerostatic portion of a film bearing between the seal bearing face and the rotating component. The seal bearing face and/or the rotating component is a non-planar surface that, during rotating motion of the rotating component, forms an aerodynamic portion of the film bearing between the seal bearing face and the rotating component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Rahul Anil Bidkar, Christopher Edward Wolfe, Nathan Evan McCurdy Gibson, Rodrigo Rodriguez Erdmenger, Deepak Trivedi, Quang Tue Nguyen Tran
  • Patent number: 10895324
    Abstract: A seal assembly for a rotary machine includes a seal bearing face that opposes a rotating component of the machine and a slide device coupled with the seal bearing face. The slide device axially moves toward the rotating component responsive to pressurization of the rotary machine. The slide device includes cross-over ports and the seal bearing includes feed ports. The feed ports extend through the seal bearing face to form aerostatic portions of a film bearing between the seal bearing face and the rotating component. The seal bearing face and/or the rotating component has a non-planar surface that, during rotating motion of the rotating component relative to the face of the seal bearing face, forms aerodynamic portions of the film bearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Quang Tue Nguyen Tran, Nathan Evan McCurdy Gibson, Rodrigo Rodriguez Erdmenger, Christopher Edward Wolfe, Steven Douglas Johnson, Antonio Guijarro Valencia
  • Patent number: 10578206
    Abstract: An oil transfer assembly has a fixed structure, with at least one inlet for receiving lubricating oil, and an interface member rotating about an axis and having a front face, from which at least one duct starts for conveying the lubricating oil; the assembly is provided with a slide having an annular chamber, which is delimited axially, on one side, by the front face and connects the inlet with the duct; the slide is coupled to the front face so as to guarantee a seal for the fluid of the annular chamber and engages a guide seat provided in the structure in an axially sliding manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Paolo Altamura
  • Patent number: 10161504
    Abstract: In accordance with an example embodiment, a wrist includes a frame, ring gear rotatable about a ring axis, and motor assembly with a pinion subassembly and motor with an output shaft. The pinion subassembly includes an internal spline and pinion connected to opposite sides of an internal shaft and rotatable about a pinion axis, and motor and frame bolt patterns. The motor is fastenable to the pinion subassembly at a plurality of motor-pinion indices via the motor bolt pattern. The pinion subassembly is fastenable to the frame mount at a plurality of pinion-frame indices via the frame bolt pattern so as to mesh the pinion with the ring gear and allow the output shaft to drive the ring gear via the internal spline, internal shaft, and pinion. The distance between the ring axis and the pinion axis varies for the plurality of pinion-frame indices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventor: Benjamin DiSabatino
  • Patent number: 10119642
    Abstract: A vacuum coupling applies vacuum from a vacuum source to a rotating tool attached to a rotating end of a robotic arm. The vacuum coupling includes a rotating portion attaching the rotating tool to the rotating end of the robotic arm. The rotating portion communicates vacuum with the rotating tool. A fixed portion is positioned around the rotating portion such that the rotating portion is rotatable relative to the fixed portion. The fixed portion communicates vacuum to the rotating portion. At least one rotating vacuum seal is positioned between the fixed portion and the rotating portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: Intelligrated Headquarters, LLC
    Inventor: Michael Girtman
  • Patent number: 9592708
    Abstract: A tire inflation system including an axle housing and a sealing ring disposed on the axle housing. The sealing ring has a conduit formed therethrough. A hub is rotatably disposed on the axle housing. The hub is disposed adjacent the sealing ring and has a conduit formed therethrough which is in fluid communication with a conduit formed through a fastener engaged with the hub. The tire inflation system also includes an inner rotary seal disposed between the sealing ring and the hub and an outer rotary seal disposed between the sealing ring and the hub. The conduit formed through the hub is in fluid communication with the conduit formed through the sealing ring through an area between the inner rotary seal and the outer rotary seal. A bearing seal is disposed between the hub and the axle housing and outboard of the outer rotary seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: DANA HEAVY VEHICLE SYSTEMS GROUP, LLC
    Inventors: Brian V. Knapke, Lloyd G. Racine
  • Patent number: 9539689
    Abstract: A rotary union including a housing, a piston, and a shaft is provided. The piston has a first fluid passage therethrough and is configured to slide axially between a first position and a second position. The shaft has a second fluid passage therethrough and is configured to rotate. A first port is arranged in the housing and is in fluid communication with a cavity formed between the housing and the piston. The first port is configured to deliver a pressurized fluid into the cavity to actuate the piston from the first position to the second position. A chamber is formed in the housing and surrounds an interface between the first and second fluid passages. A second port arranged in the housing is in fluid communication with the chamber. The second port is configured to apply a vacuum to the chamber to evacuate fluid leaked into the chamber from the interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Assignee: HAAS AUTOMATION, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Velasquez, Cody J. Carothers, Gene F. Haas
  • Patent number: 9499015
    Abstract: A rotary feedthrough for a motor vehicle wheel having tire pressure regulation comprises a wheel carrier and a wheel hub rotatably supported on the wheel carrier. A compressed air annular space and at least one annular lubricant space, which are sealed with respect to one another, are configured in an intermediate space between the wheel carrier and the wheel hub. In this respect, the compressed air annular space communicates with a compressed air passage of the wheel carrier and with a compressed air passage of the wheel hub, wherein the compressed air passage of the wheel hub communicates with a controllable valve in order selectively to fill a tire of the motor vehicle wheel with compressed air or to deflate the tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: Kessler & Co. GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Gunter Bittlingmaier
  • Patent number: 9279506
    Abstract: A rotary distribution apparatus includes a stationary, cylindrical inner core (27), and a rotatable, cylindrical outer shell (25) disposed about the inner core with the inner core (27) and the outer shell defining a plurality of annular fluid distribution chambers therebetween. The apparatus furthermore includes a rotatable indexing disc (23) having a plurality of flow passages provided therethrough, connection ports of which are in flow communication with ports in the outer shell (25), and a stationary indexing disc (22) having a plurality of flow passages provided therethrough, connection ports of which are in flow communication with suitable process vessels. The rotary distribution apparatus includes a driving arrangement that comprises a stationary shaft (28) to which the stationary core (27) is secured and a rotatable sleeve (24) rotatable about the stationary shaft (28), the rotatable sleeve (24) driving the rotatable outer shell (25) and the rotatable indexing disc (23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: Tongaat Hulett Limited
    Inventors: Craig Jensen, Leon Smith
  • Patent number: 8985151
    Abstract: A rotary fluid distribution apparatus has a first head with a wall extending around an interior volume thereof, and having a first orifice and a second orifice formed through the wall so as to open to the interior volume, a rotor extending through the interior volume, a first separation plate positioned within the first head and having an opening formed therethrough, a second separation plate positioned within the first head in spaced relation to the first separation plate and having a first opening and a second opening formed therein, and a tunneling channel extending between the first and second separation plates so as to communicate with the opening of the first separation plate and with the first opening of the second separation plate. The tunneling channel is movable with a rotation of the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventor: Baisheng Zou
  • Publication number: 20140116532
    Abstract: A hydrostatic unit includes a hydraulic machine that is connected mechanically and hydraulically to a pressure medium supply via an adapter piece and a rotary leadthrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Abenstein, Wolfgang Mayer, Marcus Herrmann
  • Patent number: 8479766
    Abstract: An apparatus for transferring different media into a rotatably mounted component of a machine, such as a rotary leadthrough, includes a connection for introducing the media to a stator and through a rotor into the rotatably mounted component. The invention can be used, for example, on a plate cylinder of a printing press.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG
    Inventor: Karlheinz Hügel
  • Patent number: 8453675
    Abstract: A rotary union includes a non-rotating machine component having a receiving counterbore, a media channel opening, and a control channel. A housing is positioned within the receiving counterbore and has a bore and a control chamber in fluid communication with the control channel. A non-rotating seal member is slidably and sealingly disposed within the bore in the housing and has a media channel in fluid communication with the media channel opening and the receiving counterbore. The non-rotating seal member can be selectively extended or retracted within the bore of the housing, such that selective engagement of a face seal is accomplished under different operating conditions of the rotary union.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Deublin Company
    Inventors: David Burrus, Graig Aaron LaCroix
  • Patent number: 8448666
    Abstract: A water supply system is described for supplying water to a linearly moving irrigation system. The water supply system is able to take water from a stationary water supply conduit (either a collapsible conduit or a rigid conduit) and feed it into one end of a feed pipe for the irrigation system. The water supply system includes a pickup shoe which extends into the water supply conduit through a traveling opening in the top side of the conduit. The pickup shoe intercepts substantially all of the water in the supply conduit and pumps it upwardly through the traveling opening to the feed pipe for the irrigation system. The pump is located in the portion of the shoe which extends into the supply conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventor: Samuel J. Marcy
  • Patent number: 8403005
    Abstract: A single-levered rotary pulling tap is used in the kitchen and includes a tap body, a spraying head, a control valve set, a first flowing assembly, and a second flowing assembly used to rotate relative to the first flowing assembly at a predetermined angular range so that user can adjustably move the spraying head to a desired position based on demand, and the pulling tap is operated smoothly to prevent from wearing related parts of the single-levered rotary pulling tap, such as the first flowing assembly, the second flowing assembly, and the control valve set, prolonging service life of the single-levered rotary pulling tap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Globe Union Industrial Corp.
    Inventor: Ruifu Wang
  • Patent number: 8353307
    Abstract: A hose wagon wherein the hose wagon frame assembly is structured to rotatably support a hose reel so that the hose reel may rotate freely about a generally vertical axis and a generally horizontal axis. This is accomplished by providing a water supply assembly having two rotational interfaces; one allowing rotation about a vertical axis, the other allowing rotation about a horizontal axis. Further, the hose wagon is free of frame members that extend vertically into the possible path of travel of a hose disposed on the hose reel. The frame assembly includes a handle member that is structured to move between an upper, first position, wherein the handle is disposed on the upper side of the hose wagon, and a second position, wherein the handle is disposed at a location lower than the path of travel of the hose coming off the hose reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Ames True Temper, Inc.
    Inventors: Greg Blaszczak, Peter Arcati
  • Patent number: 8307849
    Abstract: A rotary coupler for directing a fluid between a fluid supply and fixtures rotatable about a fixture axis and which has a manifold plate directing the fluid from a manifold inlet and a manifold outlet to the fixtures positioned about the fixture axis, the coupler including a spindle having a base portion and a shaft portion and the shaft portion defines a coupler axis and has a shaft surface generally coaxial to the coupler axis and the shaft surface includes an annular pressure zone and an axially spaced annular tank zone, the spindle also includes an internal pressurized fluid passage and an internal tank fluid passage wherein the pressurized passage extends within the spindle the coupler further includes a hub with a shaft opening shaped to receive the shaft portion, the manifold having control valves for selective actuation of the fixturing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Jergens, Inc.
    Inventor: Harry P. Fuller
  • Patent number: 8186381
    Abstract: A rotary selection valve where different components can be selected in different rotation positions of the valve and furthermore the flow through the components can be reversed by rotating the rotary valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: GE Healthcare Bio-Sciences AB
    Inventor: Anders Wilen
  • Patent number: 8074681
    Abstract: A swivel for use in a rotator is disclosed. The swivel includes an inner member having a cylindrical portion and an annular outer member arranged around the inner member and rotatably connected thereto via a bearing. At least one of the inner member and the outer member is provided with an annular fluid channel, one of the members having a fastening flange with an upper and a lower flange surface. The flange includes attachment structure configured to fix the flange to a support structure. A first fluid path extends through the flange from a first opening in a circumferential face of the fastening flange, to the fluid channel. A second fluid path at least partially extends through the inner member in a substantially axial direction from the fluid channel to a second opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Edward van Amelsfoort
  • Publication number: 20110253238
    Abstract: Modular storage and controlled outflow systems for controlling a flow of water and methods of assembly of modular storage and controlled outflow systems having indirect flow of water through the system. Modular systems for controlling a flow of water having beams extending across the modules to direct the flow of water in an indirect manner or a serpentine or semi-serpentine manner. Modular storage and controlled outflow systems for treatment and filtration of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventors: Kurt A. Burkhart, SR., Ronald E. Burkhart, SR.
  • Patent number: 7882853
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a rotary feed-through for supplying a fluid to a rotating machine part with a hollow shaft (3) that is rotatably supported in a housing (1, 2) and has a first sliding surface (29), with a sealing bushing (31) that is arranged in a rotationally fixed fashion within the housing (1, 2) coaxial to the shaft (3) and has a second sliding surface (30) for contacting the first sliding surface (29), and with a collecting chamber (27) that is arranged within the housing (1, 2) and serves for collecting the leakage fluid escaping between the two sliding surfaces (29, 30). The leakage fluid collected within the rotary feed-through can be monitored with the aid of a detection channel (26, 33, 34, 37, 39, 47) in the housing (1, 2) that is connected to the collecting chamber (27) and contains a leakage sensor (41).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: OTT-Jakob GmbH & Co. Spanntechnik KG
    Inventors: Peter Mohr, Wolfgang Bechteler, Stephan Gast, Hans Leidl
  • Publication number: 20110017302
    Abstract: The invention concerns a rotary distribution apparatus (30) for distributing process liquids, typically in ion exchange and chromatographic separation in the processing of sugar juice. The apparatus includes a core (2) into which fixed process liquid supply pipes (3) extend and annular fluid distribution chambers defined between the core and an outer shell (4) which rotates around the core. Rotating pipes (5) are provided which rotate with the shell and which are connected between selected distribution chambers and selected ports in a rotating indexing disc (6) which rotates, with the shell, relative to a stationary indexing disc (7). The arrangement is such that as the rotating disc rotates, different streams of process liquid streams fed to the rotating disc through the rotating pipes are introduced to fixed ports in the stationary disc. The latter ports are arranged to feed the streams selectively to selected destinations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: Tongaat Hulett Limited
    Inventor: Craig Jensen
  • Patent number: 7874772
    Abstract: The invention provides an improved drain structure of a cutting fluid supplied to a spindle of a milling spindle. The milling spindle 100 comprises a spindle 20 supported within a housing via a bearing 16, and a drawbar 24 having a through coolant passage 22. The cutting fluid C1 passing through the rotary joint 40 and 50 is sent to the through coolant passage 22, but a portion thereof is collected in a drain chamber 110. When the pressure within the drain chamber rises, the drain device 150 pushes open the ball 160 resisting against the spring 170, and the cutting fluid C1 is discharged to the exterior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Yamazaki Mazak Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroki Ikuta, Hiroki Tazawa, Jojiro Kimura
  • Patent number: 7874771
    Abstract: The invention provides an improved seal structure of cutting fluid supplied to a spindle of a milling spindle. The milling spindle 100 comprises a spindle 20 supported within a housing via a bearing 16, and a drawbar 24 having a through coolant passage 22. The cutting fluid C1 passing through the rotary joint 40 and 50 is sent to the through coolant passage 22, but a portion thereof is collected in a drain chamber 105. A rotation member 110 is attached to a rear end portion of the spindle 20, which is equipped with a labyrinth device 150 having a lip seal member 152. An air supply member 120 has two air seal members 142 and 144, and air A1 is sent toward the labyrinth device 150, by which an air seal is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Yamazaki Mazak Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroki Ikuta, Hiroki Tazawa, Yoshikuni Ohta, Jojiro Kimura
  • Publication number: 20100326550
    Abstract: A water collector for use with a drainpipe comprising an aperture and a valve associated with at least one said output aperture wherein the valve can be selectively moved to permit the flow of fluid through its associated aperture in a first position or to restrict the fluid flow through such aperture in a second position. The valve is activated from its first position to its second position via the action of a cable upon the valve. The valve is pivotally connected to the drainpipe and configured to be moved about the pivot by the action of the cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventor: Richard Martin WRAY
  • Publication number: 20100242758
    Abstract: An apparatus for transferring different media into a rotatably mounted component of a machine, such as a rotary leadthrough, includes a connection for introducing the media to a stator and through a rotor into the rotatably mounted component. The invention can be used, for example, on a plate cylinder of a printing press.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: HEIDELBERGER DRUCKMASCHINEN AG
    Inventor: Karlheinz Hugel
  • Patent number: 7703461
    Abstract: A rotary rinser 1 which injects dual fluids includes a rotary valve 11 in which an admixture of one of the fluids into the other fluid is prevented. A stationary valve member 28 is formed with a chemical liquid supply passage 60 and an air supply passage 48 while a rotary valve member 16 is formed with a chemical liquid discharge passage 18 and an air discharge passage 24. As the rotary valve member 16 rotates, a supply passage and a discharge passage for each fluid move into and out of communication. Sliding surfaces into which the chemical liquid passages 60 and 22a open (sliding surfaces of a chemical liquid stator 34 and a chemical liquid distributor 22) and sliding surfaces through which the air passage 48 and 24 move into and out of communication (sliding surfaces of the rotary valve member 16 and the air distributor 49) are disposed at different radial positions and at different elevations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Suntory Holdings Limited
    Inventors: Yukihito Furuya, Isao Oi
  • Patent number: 7677847
    Abstract: A spindle apparatus includes a housing for rotatable support of a spindle. The spindle is sealed by a brush seal in order to prevent fluid, contained in the housing, from escaping and/or to prevent ingress of a medium from outside into the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Karl Gebert
  • Patent number: 7669613
    Abstract: A connecting device (100) for a wall mixer has a cold water inflow (2) and a hot water inflow (3), a mixer insert (5), a mixer cartridge (7) and an outlet (29). Mixed water is directed to outlet (29) regardless of the rotary position of the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: ARWA AG
    Inventor: Werner Egli
  • Patent number: 7537512
    Abstract: The present invention related to a multiple fluid supplying apparatus for carrier of semiconductor wafer polishing system which comprises a rotary union at a driving side and a rotary union at a following side. The rotary union at a driving side comprises a central rotation axle; a fluid supplying tube body being disposed coaxially with the central rotation axle, being fixedly supported, and being formed with a plurality of fluid paths at an inside thereof; a sealing housing being disposed coaxially on an outer circumference of the fluid supplying tube body so as to be rotatably supported; and a sealing unit for maintaining air-tightness between the fluid supplying tube body and the sealing housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Doosan Mecatec Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sung Bum Seo
  • Patent number: 7484916
    Abstract: A machining center having a draw bar extending through a spindle with coolant positioned inside the draw bar for cooling a tool comprises a piston rod movable between an operating position and an extended position, a drive post rotatable about an axis of rotation, operatively connected to the draw bar, a coolant union comprising a non-rotatable portion and rotatable portion, wherein the drive post is attached to the rotatable portion such that the rotatable portion is rotatable with the drive post about the axis of rotation, and a bridge, wherein the drive post extends through the bridge to attach to the coolant union and the bridge permits rotation of the drive post but resists dislocation of the drive post from the axis of rotation. Movement of the piston rod from the operating position to the extended position moves the drive post and coolant union to an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Tanis Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Richard K. Tanis
  • Patent number: 7422031
    Abstract: A rotary union having a housing, a rotor, and a post such that a fluid can be conveyed through the rotary union. The rotor is rotatably coupled to the housing, preferably by at least one bearing interposed between a portion of the rotor exterior and a portion of the housing interior. The post is positioned in the rotary union in a manner effective to help fluidly couple the rotor to the housing and such that an annular gap surrounds at least a portion of the post such that the annular gap constitutes at least a portion of a drain fluid pathway. The present invention also includes fluid delivery systems including such rotary unions and methods of making and/or using such rotary unions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: FSI International, Inc.
    Inventors: Arne C. Benson, Edward D. Hanzlik
  • Patent number: 7243677
    Abstract: An air exchange assembly that allows for the passage of large volumes of air through a continuously rotating joint. The large cross section of the passageways in the air exchange assembly allow for a large volume of low pressure air to pass through in both directions to make a closed loop air cooling system possible. The invention supports air flows of 10,000 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm) of air through two 20 inch diameter ducts through the rotating joint. The basic design can be scaled to allow for small ducting and lower air flow or larger ducting and higher airflow. The invention can also be scaled to provide for more channels of air flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven L. Albrigo
  • Patent number: 7191797
    Abstract: A rotary distribution apparatus includes a fixed inner distribution member (12) with inner conduit zone; a rotatable distribution member (16) rotatable about the fixed inner distribution member; a plurality of fluid distribution chambers (18) located between the fixed inner distribution member and the rotatable outer distribution member; each fluid distribution chamber having a fixed port (20) in the fixed inner distribution member to which a fixed supply or return conduit for a fluid can in use be connected and at least one distribution port (22) in the rotatable outer distribution member; at least one indexing arrangement (24) including a rotatable indexing member (26) and a fixed indexing member (28); a plurality of passageways (30, 32, 38, 40) extending through each of the rotatable and fixed indexing members (26, 28), the plurality of passageways each having indexing ports (30.2, 32.2, 38.2, 40.2) and connection ports (30.1, 32.1, 38.1, 40.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: The Tongaat-Hulett Group Limited
    Inventors: Craig Jensen, Michael Greenfield, Leon Smith
  • Patent number: 7150291
    Abstract: Apparatus comprising a normally closed valve element that can be mounted on a mobile part and fluid distributor means that can be mounted on a stationary part and is operatively connectable with said valve element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Inventors: Gino Ferrari, Franco Maioli
  • Patent number: 7032353
    Abstract: A swivel joint apparatus for supplying utilities to a rotating building rotatable about a central axis has an inner, fixed spindle for securing to a fixed base of the building to extend co-axially with a central axis of rotation of the building, and an outer casing rotatably mounted on the spindle for securing to the rotatable part of the building. The spindle has a series of spaced annular flanges defining a series of annular chambers and at least one ring seal mounted on the peripheral edge of each flange for rotatable sealing engagement with the outer casing so that the casing forms an outer wall of each of the annular chambers. A lower end wall of the spindle has a plurality of ports for connection to fixed utility lines in the base for fluid supply to and from the building, each port connected through the spindle to a respective annular chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventors: Albert E. Johnstone, III, Frank W. Ratliff
  • Patent number: 7013915
    Abstract: Fluid delivery device, allowing a mechanical robot arm to be supplied with fluids from at least two sources of fluids, includes a fixed portion or stator, having connections to the sources of fluids, and a rotating portion or rotor, capable of moving with the robot arm, and comprising a plurality of connections for a link with the said robot arm. A first series of channels run through a central portion of the rotor sealing at a passage between the rotor and the stator is provided by seals. A second series of channels run through a peripheral portion of the rotor. Continuity between portions of these channels situated respectively on the rotor and the stator is provided in a zone without contact, with a reduced mechanical clearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: ABB Process Industrie
    Inventors: Laurent Businaro, Patrice Gory
  • Patent number: 6953049
    Abstract: A hose concealing device which hides a hose when it is not intended to be used and which allows access to the hose when it is desirable to use the hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Inventor: Steven Kowalke
  • Patent number: 6945271
    Abstract: A gardening hose reel includes a main frame, having a reel notch, which is provided for roll-up of the gardening hose. The water inlet terminal of the gardening hose is pulled outward from the central outlet of the reel notch and affixed to the faucets and the water outlet terminal goes through the through notch on the other end of the main frame. The features of the present invention include a rotary connector, which is installed on the water outlet terminal of the gardening hose at the reel notch outlet segment; when the water outlet terminal of the gardening hose is pulled outward, the water inlet terminal turns with the rotary connector to inhibit linkage with the water inlet terminal of the gardening hose so as to prevent the gardening hose from spiral and twisted shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Chuan Yi Plastic Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Huang-Fu Huang
  • Patent number: 6932106
    Abstract: A hose reel includes a base with two side panels and a mandrel is rotatably connected between the two side panels. Two side boards are connected to two ends of the mandrel and one of which is connected to a handle and the other side board receives a first end of a connection tube. The connection tube has hooks so as to be engaged with extensions at the opening of the side panel. By this way, the connection tube is secured to the side panel without adhesive. A cap with curve and smooth outside is mounted to a second end of the connection tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventor: King-Yuan Wang
  • Patent number: 6901955
    Abstract: The cryogenic rotary coupling comprises segments of a cryogenic line that are capable of turning relative to each other about a pivot axis of the rotary coupling. Radial retaining elements and axial retaining elements define the pivot axis of the rotary coupling. One of the segments comprises a vacuum-insulated double-walled female portion and the other segment comprises a vacuum-insulated double-walled male portion engaged at least in part in the female portion. A first sealing gasket is interposed between a free end of the male portion engaged in the female portion and one of the retaining means. A second sealing gasket is interposed between a free end of the female portion surrounding the male portion and the other one of the retaining elements. A heater device is disposed in the vicinity of the second gasket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: SNECMA Moteurs
    Inventor: Dominique Valentian
  • Patent number: 6792966
    Abstract: A fuel transfer apparatus for providing fuel to a vehicle engine from a plurality of fuel tanks. A transfer pump is positioned intermediate a pair of fuel tanks and is operable to transfer fuel therebetween. Fuel is provided to the engine from a first one of the two fuel tanks. Excess fuel is returned to the first one of the two fuel tanks. When the level in the first fuel tank is less than the level in the second fuel tank by a predetermined amount, the transfer pump transfers an amount of fuel from the second fuel tank to the first fuel tank. Fuel level sensors are utilized to monitor the level of fuel in the two fuel tanks and report to a microprocessor which controls the transfer pump. The microprocessor utilized to control the transfer pump may be incorporated into the transfer pump, may be a stand alone microprocessor, or may comprise an existing vehicle circuit board such as, e.g., the electronic control module (ECM). A fuel transfer line interconnects the two tanks and is located above the two tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Federal-Mogul World Wide, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard W. Harvey
  • Patent number: 6766821
    Abstract: A reel for storing an air hose includes a hollow housing having a spring biased pulley rotatably mounted therein. A pressured air inlet extends through the housing along the pulley axis of rotation and is sealed to a nozzle rotating with the pulley. The pulley stores an air hose having one end connected to the nozzle and an opposite end extending through an opening in the housing for attachment to a pneumatic tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Alert Stamping & Mfg. Co, Inc
    Inventors: James D. Kovacik, Paul S. Blanch, Joseph J. Smith
  • Publication number: 20040016462
    Abstract: Apparatus comprising a normally closed valve element that can be mounted on a mobile part and fluid distributor means that can be mounted on a stationary part and is operatively connectable with said valve element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Gino Ferrari, Franco Maioli
  • Patent number: 6668859
    Abstract: A collet assembly includes a collet and a tubular valve sleeve sleeved on a rotary shaft that is disposed within a stationary wall body and which defines a piston-receiving chamber. A piston is disposed movably in the piston-receiving chamber. The valve sleeve is formed with a valve opening therein, a valve chamber extending from the valve opening, a valve inlet in fluid communication with the valve chamber and a fluid injection passage in the stationary wall body, and a valve outlet in fluid communication with the valve chamber and a fluid channel in the shaft. A check valve is mounted in the valve chamber, and is moved to an open position, in which, the valve opening is opened due to injection of a high-pressure hydraulic oil into a clearance through the fluid injection passage, thereby permitting movement of the piston, which, in turn, results in clamping of the collet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Hsuan-Lung Wu
  • Patent number: 6648000
    Abstract: A spool for carrying continuous pipe or coiled tubing for a coiled tubing injector is dropped into a stand at a site and coupled to a rotary power source. The stand includes two axles, on either side of the spool, and a drive coupling. A pipe slideably extends through one of the axles. It is retracted when the spool is lowered onto the stand and then extended for communicating fluid between the coiled tubing and a fluid source. A swivel joint is connected to one end of the pipe. The pipe is permitted to turn with the spool or is held stationary with respect to the stand depending on whether the swivel joint is mounted outside the stand or inside the spool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.
    Inventors: Troy D. Cain, Timothy Scott Steffenhagen
  • Patent number: 6637454
    Abstract: A fluid handling system is disclosed having a swivel for connecting a stationary fluid source line to a fluid service line that is wound upon a reel. A rotor cap secures the fluid source line and a rotor within the swivel in position, allowing a housing within the swivel to freely rotate with the fluid service line and reel. The swivel is coupled to the fluid source line using a crimping ferrule to eliminate the necessity of predisposing mating components on the fluid source line. The swivel is further provided with seals that reduce the incidence of bunching and tear due to the reduction in drag imposed on the seals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Craig D. Eley
  • Patent number: 6622676
    Abstract: A cylindrical element having a first axis and at least one internal longitudinal passage, and a circular circumferential groove formed in an outer surface of the element and having a second axis. The groove eccentric of the element such that the groove intersects the wall of the longitudinal passage, forming thereby a rectangular opening therebetween. When a second longitudinal passage is present, it is similarly intersected by a second eccentric groove spaced apart axially from the first groove. The axis of the second groove is rotationally displaced about the element axis from the first groove, preferably by a large angle, for example 180°, such that the first eccentric groove does not intersect the second passage, nor does the second eccentric groove intersect the first passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald J. Pierik, Dominic Borraccia