Double End Patents (Class 138/91)
  • Patent number: 11796114
    Abstract: A pipeline isolation tool [10] and method of its use includes a plugging head [20] having a seal [30] to sealably engage a pipe wall; a fluid-activated cylinder [64] located on one side of the seal and moveable in an axial direction; metal support segments [40] located on another side of the seal and moveable in a transverse direction radially outward and inward; the metal segments including a concave portion [45], a portion [35] of the seal residing within the concave portion when unset and set. When in a seal unset position a portion [33] of the seal is covered by adjacent metal support segments of the plurality. When in a seal set position the portion of the seal is exposed between the adjacent metal support segments. The seal is self-energizing, its actuating force being in a same direction as a force from isolation pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: TDW Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas H. McKone, Cody A. Parsley, Keelan J. Prewett
  • Patent number: 11168520
    Abstract: A ladder rung accessory assembly includes first and second caps have a respective base that is shaped to cover respective rung openings of a selected rung of an extension ladder to reduce acoustic noise during transport. Each cap includes a guide member that is received in the respective opening to position the attached base. Channels formed through the bases and guide members are shaped to receive a cable tie passing through each cap and the selected rung. The first cap is held against the ladder by a head of the cable tie and the second cap is held against the ladder by an internal pawl locking mechanism of the second cap that ratchets against a toothed tape section of the cable tie.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2021
    Inventors: Geoffrey Saylor, Andrew Saylor
  • Patent number: 10254151
    Abstract: A system and method for measuring fluids include a vessel containing at least two fluids with a drain pipe, a seal housing, a tool assembly, and a float assembly. The seal housing fits onto the drain pipe of existing vessels or tanks, and the tool assembly and float assembly are inserted through the seal housing to the vessel to measure the fluids inside the tank. The tool assembly has a shaft section and a flexible section. The flexible section extends into the vessel and through any bend in the drain pipe so that the system is compatible with retrofitting vessels with different drain pipe shapes. The float assembly can be released from the end of the bent drain pipe to float to the fluid boundary between different fluids in the vessel. The float assembly can also be retracted to safe position within the seal housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: AGAR CORPORATION Ltd.
    Inventors: Joram Agar, Hector Viale-Rigo Capuzzo, David Farchy
  • Patent number: 8887768
    Abstract: A sealing device is provided for use with a fitting. The fitting has circular port and a flow path with a longitudinal axis. A circular port encircles a portion of the flow path opposite the port with the sealing device inserted into the port. The sealing device has a circular top with two opposing surfaces depending therefrom but inclined so the surfaces are closer at the top. A continuous sidewall joins the periphery of the two surfaces. The opposing surfaces are inclined and spaced apart further at the top than at an end opposite the top. A cylindrical hole through the opposing surfaces encircles the flow path during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Securus, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis L Hart, Cristobal Gonzalez, Virgil E. O'Neil, Jeffrey A. Jaramillo, Larry D. Brown
  • Patent number: 8875742
    Abstract: A clip includes a pair of operable jaws each of which is provided with a detachable holder. Several holders are also prepared in reserve. The holders have several kinds of shapes and sizes. Thus, by interchanging the holder with one another, the clip can fit with different kinds of tubes and multi-way valves, and with different sizes of openings or orifices. Application of the clip is expended with minimal accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Ying-Chieh Liao
  • Patent number: 8851124
    Abstract: An oil pipe stopper includes an upper clamping body, a lower clamping body, and an elastic member. The upper clamping body has a central portion with an upper post, two downwardly slanting portions, and two clamping portions. The clamping portions of the upper clamping body are provided with a first stopping member and an engagement groove. The lower clamping body has a central portion with a lower post, two upwardly slanting portions, and two clamping portions. The lower post is telescopically connected with the upper post. The clamping portions of the lower clamping body are provided with a second stopping member and a third stopping member. The downwardly and upwardly slanting portions are crossed such that the first stopping member faces the second stopping member while the engagement groove faces the third stopping member. The elastic member is mounted between the upper clamping body and the lower clamping body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventor: Shu-Hui Chen
  • Publication number: 20140251383
    Abstract: A treatment system that treats the interior of one or more tubes of a tube bundle. The system circulates treatment fluid within the tubes being treated. A manifold distributes the treatment fluid among the tubes being treated in the case of treatment of more than one tube where the tubes are to be treated simultaneously. A device is provided that both seals the ends of the tubes being treated and forms a passage by which the treatment fluid is introduced into and removed from the tubes. The treatment system can be a tube cleaning system that removes foreign material from the interior of the tubes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventors: EVAN DOMINIC LYLE, Daniel Curtis Lyle
  • Patent number: 8636035
    Abstract: An inflatable plug assembly includes a first inflatable plug, a second inflatable plug, and a first mount coupled to the first inflatable plug. The first mount is configured to deliver fluid to and inflate the first inflatable plug. The inflatable plug assembly also includes a second mount coupled to the second inflatable plug. The second mount is configured to deliver fluid to and inflate the second inflatable plug. The second mount is secured to the first mount. The first inflatable plug and the second inflatable plug are independently inflatable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Inventor: Philip L. Lundman
  • Patent number: 8616210
    Abstract: A ports cap for a mask assembly includes two closure portions adapted to seal respective ports of the mask assembly, a bridge piece that joins the two closure portions, and two gripping tabs extending outwardly from respective closure portions. Each gripping tab includes one or more ribs on at least one side thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: ResMed Limited
    Inventors: Philip Thomas Stallard, Mark Bertinetti, Scott Alexander Howard
  • Patent number: 8047219
    Abstract: The present invention is a method of plugging a pipeline having an exterior surface including the steps of affixing to the exterior of the pipeline first and second spaced apart collars, welding each collar to the pipeline so that an operating space is provided between the collars, positioning a seal with each collar, affixing a containment housing to the opposed collars providing a confined space around the pipeline and surrounding the operating space between the collars, the confined space being accessed by a passageway, cutting and removing a length of pipeline between the collars providing opposed pipeline exterior end surfaces, positioning first and second seal cups between the collars, each seal cup having a forwardly extending circumferential lip of internal diameter greater than the external diameter of the pipeline, and applying force to move the seal cups away from each other, the circumferential lips of the seal cups engaging with the opposed seals to compress them into sealing engagement with the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: TDW Delaware Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory L. Puckett, Tony R. Garrison
  • Patent number: 7849882
    Abstract: A double plug head for plugging a pipe. The double plug head includes a primary rubber packing, a roller support, a tube support and a rubber tube. The primary rubber packing is provided on a mounting plate of a plugging machine. The roller support is provided with a plurality of rollers. The tube support is provided between the primary rubber packing and the roller support. A tube seating depression is formed around the circumferential surface of the tube support. A fluid feed path is formed in the tube support. The rubber tube is seated into the tube seating depression and has a nipple connected to an outlet of the fluid feed path. Communication holes which communicate with the fluid feed path are respectively formed in the primary rubber packing and the mounting plate. A fluid hose is connected to the communication hole of the mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Donghwa Industry Co. Ltd
    Inventors: Woo Kag Lee, Min Ho Song
  • Patent number: 7841364
    Abstract: A pipe plug comprised of two, pivotally connected plugging heads, each plugging head having a sealing element, which work in combination to double block and bleed a pipe. The first sealing element prevents flow of product in the pipe and the second sealing element captures any leakage past the first sealing element and forces that leakage out through a fitting. A stabilization pad, connected to a flange on a nosepiece of each plugging head, prevents deformation of the sealing elements. A spring-loaded pivot arm connected to the second plugging head allows the yoke that connects the two plugging heads to rotate freely. An outward-facing raised taper projection on the pivot arm, along with a guide wheel connected to the first plugging head, prevent the yokes and plugging heads from becoming entrapped during their installation in or removal from the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: TDW Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Yeazel, Gregory L. Puckett, Richard L. Goswick
  • Publication number: 20100243093
    Abstract: A repair device and method for its use includes plugs that pressure isolate an internally damaged pipeline section and an hermetically sealed housing that contains a length of composite material and a means for controllably releasing the composite material. In a preferred embodiment, the composite material is a pre-cured composite plank and the releasing means is a rotatable carriage assembly. The carriage assembly includes pairs of rollers that maintain the composite material in its coiled state and provide for its controlled release onto the interior wall of the pipeline. The carriage assembly also includes a nozzle for injecting an adhesive into a roller. The roller applies the adhesive onto the interior wall surface and then presses the composite material into the adhesive as the carriage assembly rotates and the composite material uncoils. A pneumatic or electric motor may be used to power the carriage assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Wilson
  • Patent number: 7766047
    Abstract: A plugging device for double blocking a section of pipeline or piping and method for its use includes a first and second sealing element and at least one cylinder that is extendable along an axial direction of the pipe between a retracted first position and an extended second position. A means for actuating the cylinder, such as a fluid power source, is provided. When the cylinder is in the extended second position, the sealing element sealably engages an opposing cut end of the pipe. The sealing element is an elastomeric sealing element and may be cup-shaped, convex-shaped, or cork-shaped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: TDW Delaware Inc.
    Inventors: Tony R. Garrison, Gregory L. Puckett
  • Publication number: 20100175771
    Abstract: A plugging device for double blocking a section of pipeline or piping and method for its use includes a first and second sealing element and at least one cylinder that is extendable along an axial direction of the pipe between a retracted first position and an extended second position. A means for actuating the cylinder, such as a fluid power source, is provided. When the cylinder is in the extended second position, the sealing element sealably engages an opposing cut end of the pipe. The sealing element is an elastomeric sealing element and may be cup-shaped, convex-shaped, or cork-shaped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventors: Tony R. Garrison, Gregory L. Puckett
  • Patent number: 7628176
    Abstract: A pipeline stop is used to temporarily plug a pipeline to allow repairs to the pipeline. The pipeline stop includes lateral sections expanded into a sealing position blocking flow through the pipeline. A central section is moved downwardly to expand the lateral sections. Inclined links transfer force from the central section to the lateral sections. As the central section moves downwardly, the links move from a first inclined position to a second, more nearly horizontal, position. Upward movement of the central section allows the lateral sections to retract, typically by use of springs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Louis C. Waldo
  • Publication number: 20090114302
    Abstract: A pipe plug includes two or more pivotally connected plugging heads that work in combination to double block and bleed a pipe. At least one of the plugging heads has an expandable sealing element that is in communication with an inflation source. The sealing element may be an inflatable sealing element or a compression packer sealing element. A passageway-sections of which may pass through the pivotal connection and into the plugging head-carries the inflation medium from the source to the sealing element. A bleed port passageway is also provided that passes through the plugging head. The leading plugging head may include a cleaning element for sweeping away debris ahead of the plug. The plugging heads may also include a skid plate that slideably engages the interior surface of the pipe to properly orient the plugging heads within the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Yeazel, Gregory L. Puckett, Richard L. Goswick
  • Publication number: 20090114301
    Abstract: A pipe plug comprised of two, pivotally connected plugging heads, each plugging head having a sealing element, which work in combination to double block and bleed a pipe. The first sealing element prevents flow of product in the pipe and the second sealing element captures any leakage past the first sealing element and forces that leakage out through a fitting. A stabilization pad, connected to a flange on a nosepiece of each plugging head, prevents deformation of the sealing elements. A spring-loaded pivot arm connected to the second plugging head allows the yoke that connects the two plugging heads to rotate freely. An outward-facing raised taper projection on the pivot arm, along with a guide wheel connected to the first plugging head, prevent the yokes and plugging heads from becoming entrapped during their installation in or removal from the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Yeazel, Gregory L. Puckett, Richard L. Goswick
  • Patent number: 7513274
    Abstract: An inflatable test plug for insertion into a two way clean out during hydrostatic testing of a building's interior sewer pipes. The test plug includes a hollow cylindrical body portion having a closed top, and a closed bottom portion. The test plug is adapted to receive and hold air under pressure during an inflation phase and to release the air under pressure during a deflation phase. The cylindrical body portion and the closed bottom portion of the test plug body are adapted to expand during inflation. The closed bottom portion is adapted to expand prior to the cylindrical body portion during the inflation phase, and adapted to deflate prior to the cylindrical body portion during the deflation phase. The closed bottom portion has opposing locking indentations in its outer surface adapted to receive opposing inwardly extending projections located in the mid-portion of the two way clean out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Inventor: William F. Glenn
  • Patent number: 7490629
    Abstract: A plug kit of sealing apertures. There is: a first plug, including: a first solid cylindrical flexible member, having: a first end with a first diameter; and a second end, opposite the first end, the second end having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, wherein the diameter of the first solid cylindrical flexible member decreases step-wise along a length of the first solid cylindrical flexible member; and a second plug, including: a second solid cylindrical flexible member, having: a third end with a third diameter, wherein the third diameter is larger than the first diameter; and a fourth end, opposite the third end, the fourth end having a fourth diameter smaller than the third diameter, smaller than the first diameter, and larger than the second diameter, wherein the diameter of the second solid cylindrical flexible member decreases step-wise along a length of the second solid cylindrical flexible member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Inventors: Linda Williams, Richard Williams
  • Publication number: 20080295911
    Abstract: The invention provides a unique, compact tool to be used in conjunction with preexisting hoses of any type, construction, size or style whatsoever and inflating said hose or hoses in a safe universal manor with universal gas delivery devices using an appropriate adaptive valve and a safety pressure relief mechanism that also serves as a method to deflate the said hose or hoses after the need for a flotation device is no longer present in any situation whatsoever and by any amateur or professional applicant or user who may or may not be of any occupation whatsoever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventor: Billy Joe Davis
  • Publication number: 20080121302
    Abstract: A pipeline stop is used to temporarily plug a pipeline to allow repairs to the pipeline. The pipeline stop includes lateral sections expanded into a sealing position blocking flow through the pipeline. A central section is moved downwardly to expand the lateral sections. Inclined links transfer force from the central section to the lateral sections. As the central section moves downwardly, the links move from a first inclined position to a second, more nearly horizontal, position. Upward movement of the central section allows the lateral sections to retract, typically by use of springs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventor: Louis C. Waldo
  • Publication number: 20080066820
    Abstract: A plug kit of sealing apertures. There is: a first plug, including: a first solid cylindrical flexible member, having: a first end with a first diameter; and a second end, opposite the first end, the second end having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, wherein the diameter of the first solid cylindrical flexible member decreases step-wise along a length of the first solid cylindrical flexible member; and a second plug, including: a second solid cylindrical flexible member, having: a third end with a third diameter, wherein the third diameter is larger than the first diameter; and a fourth end, opposite the third end, the fourth end having a fourth diameter smaller than the third diameter, smaller than the first diameter, and larger than the second diameter, wherein the diameter of the second solid cylindrical flexible member decreases step-wise along a length of the second solid cylindrical flexible member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Inventors: Linda Williams, Richard Williams
  • Patent number: 7210503
    Abstract: A method and device for preventing water from penetrating into the rising part/intermediate section (12) of a pipe (6) when laying the pipe (6) on or near the seabed (8) by means of a pipelay vessel (1), and where a plug (22) that seals against, travels and locks in the inside passage of the pipe (6) is arranged inside the pipe (6) between the lay vessel (1) and the seabed (8), where during normal pipelaying the plug (22) is displaced in the pipe (6) so as to essentially maintain its relative position relative to the pipelay vessel (1), and where in the event of water flowing into the pipe (6), the plug (22) is locked in the pipe (6), whereby water is prevented from filling the rising part/intermediate section (12) of the pipe (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: TDW Offshore Services AS
    Inventors: Harald Syse, Jostein Aleksandersen
  • Patent number: 7000641
    Abstract: A method of controlling the fluid pressure of an inflatable stopping bag used to block the fluid flow through a fluid conduit comprises pressurising the bag using a pressure regulator which operates to regulate the pressure of the bag as a function of the instantaneous pressure in the pipe upstream of the stopping bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Crane Limited
    Inventor: Andrew Welfare
  • Patent number: 6840090
    Abstract: A plumbing testing device (10) has a pair of aligned and closed pipe sections (12 and 14) with open sides facing in opposite directions. The plumbing testing device (10) is longitudinally collapsible to facilitate removal from between pipe ends (19 and 20). The pipe sections (12 and 14) each have a port (32, 35), a transparent hose (38) connects the ports to one another, and a valve (30) controls the flow of water between the pipe sections (12 and 14) through the hose (38).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: In Sync Mechanical Contracting Ltd.
    Inventor: Murray Douglas Smith
  • Publication number: 20040261873
    Abstract: A method and device for preventing water from penetrating into the rising part/intermediate section (12) of a pipe (6) when laying the pipe (6) on or near the seabed (8) by means of a pipelay vessel (1), and where a plug (22) that seals against, travels and locks in the inside passage of the pipe (6) is arranged inside the pipe (6) between the lay vessel (1) and the seabed (8), where during normal pipelaying the plug (22) is displaced in the pipe (6) so as to essentially maintain its relative position relative to the pipelay vessel (1), and where in the event of water flowing into the pipe (6), the plug (22) is locked in the pipe (6), whereby water is prevented from filling the rising part/intermediate section (12) of the pipe (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Harald Syse, Jostein Aleksandersen
  • Patent number: 6712096
    Abstract: A high-pressure attenuator or accumulator includes a body defining a pressure chamber therein. An engaging wall of the body extends axially beyond an opening to the pressure chamber and defines a sealing chamber therein. A seal head positioned within the sealing chamber is coupled to the attenuator body using a tensioner assembly coupled to the engaging wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: KMT Waterjet Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Dieter Tischler
  • Patent number: 6688336
    Abstract: A sealing terminal for an installations duct of tubular shape is provided. The sealing terminal includes a plug having a threaded frustoconical part which can be screwed into one end of the duct, a manipulating head with a peripheral shoulder in a continuation of the plug, where the peripheral shoulder is designed to face an edge face of a border around an opening of the duct, and an annular seal arranged against the peripheral shoulder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Novaplastic
    Inventor: Claud Trichard
  • Publication number: 20040003855
    Abstract: The invention is a sewer plug which is inserted into a sewer main line and positioned over a tributary or sewer feed line coming into the sewer main line. The sewer plug has an inflatable collar which is inflated once the device is in place. The inflation of the device causes blockage of the feeder line, but allows the flow through the sewer main line to continue. The device is positioned using lines attached to the device which are pulled from an upstream and a downstream manhole access. The device can be positioned by moving at a measured distance between the two manhole accesses, or by the use of a video camera, which can be attached to the device, and which enables a user to view the sewer tributary line during positioning. When the device is no longer used, it may be deflated and pulled out of the sewer main line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Publication date: January 8, 2004
    Applicant: City of Boise
    Inventors: Richard L. Dees, Zachary Doerzaph, Chris A. Reeder, Mark E. Paulus, Quincy O'Donnell
  • Patent number: 6568429
    Abstract: A pipe sealing apparatus insertable inside a pipe and inflatable therein to prevent fluid flow and backflow through a defined section of pipe. The pipe sealing apparatus has a first inflatable plug at a first end and a second inflatable plug at a second end connected by an elongated flexible tensile member and a fluid pressure hose. Each inflatable plug has a plurality of ports that may be connected to a source of fluid pressure, plugged, or left unplugged depending on the application. The second inflatable plug may be inflated either simultaneous with the first plug, or independent of the first plug. Each inflatable plug also has a flow-through conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Philip L. Lundman
  • Patent number: 6446669
    Abstract: A pipe sealing apparatus insertable inside a pipe and inflatable therein to prevent fluid flow and backflow through a defined section of pipe. The pipe sealing apparatus has a first inflatable plug at a first end and a second inflatable plug at a second end connected by an elongated flexible tensile member and a fluid pressure hose. Each inflatable plug has a plurality of ports that may be connected to a source of fluid pressure, plugged, or left unplugged depending on the application. The second inflatable plug may be inflated either simultaneous with the first plug, or independent of the first plug. Each inflatable plug also has a flow-through conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Philip L. Lundman
  • Publication number: 20020083988
    Abstract: A pipe sealing apparatus insertable inside a pipe and inflatable therein to prevent fluid flow and backflow through a defined section of pipe. The pipe sealing apparatus has a first inflatable plug at a first end and a second inflatable plug at a second end connected by an elongated flexible tensile member and a fluid pressure hose. Each inflatable plug has a plurality of ports that may be connected to a source of fluid pressure, plugged, or left unplugged depending on the application. The second inflatable plug may be inflated either simultaneous with the first plug, or independent of the first plug. Each inflatable plug also has a flow-through conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Philip L. Lundman
  • Publication number: 20020083989
    Abstract: A pipe sealing apparatus insertable inside a pipe and inflatable therein to prevent fluid flow and backflow through a defined section of pipe. The pipe sealing apparatus has a first inflatable plug at a first end and a second inflatable plug at a second end connected by an elongated flexible tensile member and a fluid pressure hose. Each inflatable plug has a plurality of ports that may be connected to a source of fluid pressure, plugged, or left unplugged depending on the application. The second inflatable plug may be inflated either simultaneous with the first plug, or independent of the first plug. Each inflatable plug also has a flow-through conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Philip L. Lundman
  • Patent number: 6244301
    Abstract: A bulkhead barrier member for separating a tubular member into chamber sections is described. The barrier member has a diameter between about 0.001 to 0.005 inches less than the diameter of the inner surface of the tubular member when positioned within the tubular housing. Upon compression of the barrier member, the barrier member is radially expandable to engage the inner surface of the tubular member to provide a sealed barrier between the chamber sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventors: Craig A. Scott, Randolph F. Stukel
  • Patent number: 6161507
    Abstract: A tube protector device includes a first cap member, the first cap member being configured to fit over and substantially seal a first end of a tube; a second cap member, the second cap member being configured to fit over and substantially seal a second end of the tube; and a fastening device adapted to resiliently bias the first cap member toward the second cap member. At least the first cap member includes a collar configured to surround a portion of an outer surface of the tube and an angled tube support member configured to fit within the internal diameter of the tube, the collar and the angled support being configured to receive the first end of the tube therebetween. The first cap member further includes a sealing member, a particle barrier and/or a shock absorber between the collar and the angled support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Cypress Semiconductor Corp.
    Inventor: Norman L. French, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5967189
    Abstract: A protective cap has a hollow tubular cable clamp, a spacer integrally formed with and extending from mid-portion of the tubular cable clamp, a "T" shaped extension integrally formed on the free end of the spacer and two tubular caps respectively integrally formed on the ends of the extension. A cutout is defined in the tubular cable clamp and the side faces defining the cutout are inclined with respect to each other, such that the user is able to insert the fiber optic cable into the tubular cable clamp with ease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: Yu-Feng Cheng
  • Patent number: 5439032
    Abstract: An inflatable gas pipeline stopper is provided for stopping gas from flowing through a broken gas pipeline while effecting repairs of the gas pipeline. The invention includes an elongated cylindrical stopper housing for attachment to a gas pipeline in an air tight engagement which may be accomplished through a commercially available drilling and tapping machine and by an air tight clamp assembly. Within the stopper housing extend a pair of moveable bag inserting and retracting plunger assemblies including rigid air pipes which are attached to an air source at the upper ends thereof and to inflatable air bags at the bottom ends thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Inventor: Joseph Petrone
  • Patent number: 5368671
    Abstract: A paper tube consisting essentially of one or a plurality of paper tapes formed into a tube and a blend adhesive comprising two or more aqueous adhesives different in their concentrations adhering the paper tapes, its production and a package using it. In the paper tube, the adhesive can be coated into a thin film layer even at a high concentration without reducing the initial adhesive force, and the drying process after the coating can be omitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1994
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenji Sashihara, Shigeru Minato
  • Patent number: 5318075
    Abstract: A water soluble drip stop plug for stopping water flow in a pipe and for dissolving after a predetermined time after water flow is restored. The plug is a cup shaped water soluble plug which has tapered sides to fit snugly into the inside diameter of pipes. The end wall of the plug is designed to dissolve in a predetermined time after contact with fluids. The end wall of the plug has a different wall thickness than the side wall of the plug. A preferred embodiment has an end wall with a portion of reduced wall thickness which allows it to break away quicker than the remainder of the end wall. Additionally, the drip stop plug may have reinforced side walls to provide support for plugs of larger diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Inventor: Michael K. Roll
  • Patent number: 5297187
    Abstract: A device for sealing a penetration in a pressurizer of a nuclear steam supply system includes a hollow cylinder adapted to be inserted into the heater sleeve, in place of the heater. The cylinder includes a nose portion formed with a number of axially extending slots defining therein a number of radially displaceable segments, each of which has an outwardly extending flange, proximate its distal end, which is engageable with the heater sleeve to resist blowout. A rod, inserted into the cylinder, seals the passage therethrough while locking the displaceable nose portion segments in their sleeve-engaging position. An annular soft nickel band on the outside of the cylinder engages the inner surface of the heater sleeve to provide an effective seal therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1994
    Assignee: Combustion Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan H. Sodergren, Harry K. Williams
  • Patent number: 5038830
    Abstract: A weld-free all purpose seal for closed fluid systems is disclosed. This sealing device includes a ring body having a flanged top member for coupling to a pipe with a first plurality of apertures in spaced relationship therethrough. The ring body is recessed in the bottom member with a lip extending beyond the apertures. A flexible annular seal is provided having the reduced diameter from top to bottom adapted to be integral with the lip surface of the ring body. A wedge block is also provided with a planar top surface with a second plurality of apertures in spaced aligned relationship with the first plurality and continuing therethrough. The wedge block being of reduced diameter from bottom to top and adapted to receive the flexible annular seal. The wedge block may also have a diameter to interconnect with the recessed area of the ring body bottom member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Hydrotreat, Inc.
    Inventor: Johnny Arnaud
  • Patent number: 5016674
    Abstract: The present invention relates to rod plug caps for leaky tubes of a heat exchanger. The rod plug caps include a frustrum shaped tapered hollow plug having a top, a length, and a diameter. The diameter of the top being the widest of the plug. A plug nut is formed on the top of the plug. The plug nut and the plug are formed from one homogeneous piece of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1991
    Inventor: Stephen J. Kiss
  • Patent number: 4936378
    Abstract: Closure plugs have heretofore been required in an apparatus for stabilizing an unstable tube of a heat exchanger with a weakened wall region, in addition to providing a stabilizer. Furthermore, differing inside diameters can often not be bridged with the spreading range of the stabilizer. A rod which is fitted with two axially spaced-apart cam discs is provided in order to achieve not only a vibration-free stabilization but a simple sealing as well. Each cam disc has a spreading sleeve which engages over it. Once the spreading sleeve has been pressed against the inner wall of the tube by a relative rotation of the rod, the sleeve-shaped end of the rod is expanded by rolling or is welded in the tube sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 26, 1990
    Assignee: ABB Reaktor GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Kalthoff, Jakob Russ
  • Patent number: 4848734
    Abstract: An improved apparatus for directly pulling lines along an extended length of pipe comprising: a projectile positionable within a pipe, the projectile including a shaft having resilient plates and peripheral washers and also having an eye at its trailing end for the receipt of the line to be pulled thereby; a plug positionable within the end of the pipe adjacent the projectile, the plug having circular concentric rings extending from its exterior surface, the plug being split along a plane from its front surface to its rear surface at an angle with respect to the central axis of the plug for facilitating the placement of the plug around the line and then into the pipe, the plug having a length to diameter ratio of about 0.75:1 or greater; and means for coupling the plug to a source of compressed air which may be passed through the plug to contact and move the projectile along the length of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1989
    Inventor: Jack W. Ford
  • Patent number: 4774383
    Abstract: Sealing assemblies (16, 18, 20) are disclosed for isolating electronic circuitry (14) within a magnetometer (12) from the effects of water intrusion when the magnetometer is used under water. The electronic circuitry (14) is positioned within an inner cylindrical member (24) and the ends of the inner cylindrical member are sealed by RTV rubber plugs (50, 52). Passages (54) through the plugs permit signal cables to extend from the electronic circuitry to the surface. The compression of the resilient plugs seals against the cable and the inner wall of the inner cylindrical member. Interior O-rings (46, 48) seal between the exterior of the inner cylindrical member and the inner wall of an outer cylindrical member (62) to seal the annular space therebetween. Couplings (66, 68) are secured at each end of the outer cylindrical member (62) and accept nipples (70, 72). Caps (78, 82) are slid over the nipples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1988
    Inventor: Murphy L. Dalton, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4711470
    Abstract: A utility connection bar (30) dimensioned to extend between a gas supply line (42) and a customer gas line (44) of a conventional gas connection (41) is formed of molded plastic and has a bar (36) extending between threaded ends (32) and (34). The plastic bar (36) and the ends (32) and (34) have a plurality of channels (38) which extend the length of the connection bar. A pair of 1/4 inch diameter holes (40) extend through the plastic bar (36) near the threaded ends (32) and (34). The combination of the channels (38) and the holes (40) makes it very difficult to form a gas flow path between the threaded ends (32) and (34) without altering the external appearance of the connection bar (30). In a utility connection bar (70), channels (86, 92) extend vertically between bottom (88) and top (90) of plastic bar (72).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Inventor: Steven Scahill
  • Patent number: 4590991
    Abstract: A flexible vibration stabilizer and method for reducing vibration in a tube in a shell and tube heat exchanger wherein the stabilizer is an elongated flexible cable or chain which may have a plurality of rigid members loosely or fixedly mounted thereon. A plug may be used for simultaneously mounting the stabilizer to the tube and for sealing same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1984
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1986
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventors: Frank W. Cooper, Jr., Thomas M. Epperson, Gregory L. Calhoun, Harvey D. Kucherer
  • Patent number: 4526275
    Abstract: A seal kit for preventing the loss of transmission fluid when servicing and/or storing an automatic transmission includes first and second plugs and a retaining strap. The first plug seals the aperture which normally receives the transmission's dipstick. The second plug seals the aperture which is formed when the rearward portion of the transmission is disconnected from the vehicle's drive shaft. This plug has a handle portion and a hollow cylindrical shank having a smooth outer surface which is engaged by the lip seal surrounding this aperture. Finally, a retaining strap having apertures in opposite ends thereof which align with apertures in a flange at the transmission's forward end is secured by means of bolts for example across the forward end of the transmission to secure the torque converter contained therein when the transmission is disconnected from the vehicle's bell housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1985
    Inventor: David A. Nixon
  • Patent number: 4438783
    Abstract: A device that protects the inner surface of pipes from rust is disclosed. This device is especially useful for pipes provided with threading and a thread guard at their threaded ends to form an airtight seal. The device comprises a holder that can be inserted in the pipes on which a number of receptacles are attached at intervals. The receptacles are filled with a drying agent or dessicant and are made of a moisture permeable material. A moisture indicator may be placed in the base of the thread guard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1984
    Assignees: Wilfried Dreyfuss, Thomas E. Remp
    Inventors: Wilfried Dreyfuss, Thomas E. Remp, Jr., Kurt Muller