Convertible Patents (Class 285/12)
  • Patent number: 11613176
    Abstract: A tank closure that includes a first tank closure member, a second tank closure member, and a bias member having a spring force to brace the second tank closure against the first tank closure member. The first tank closure member has a first stop member, while the second tank closure member has a second stop member. The second tank closure member is flexibly mounted in an axial direction relative to the first tank closure member, the second tank closure member. The second stop member, in a closed position of the tank closure, forms a mechanical stop relative to the first stop member to prevent axial movement of the second tank closure member relative to the first tank closure member against the spring force of the bias member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2023
    Assignee: MAGNA Energy Storage Systems GesmbH
    Inventors: Philipp Deutschmann, Ralf Malskorn
  • Patent number: 11434859
    Abstract: A connection fitting for connecting an outlet of a high-pressure fuel pump to a high-pressure region of a fuel system of an internal combustion engine includes a first connection opening and a second connection opening. The first connection opening has a first opening axis and is configured to connect to the outlet of the high-pressure fuel pump. The second connection opening has a second opening axis and is configured to connect to the high-pressure region. The second opening axis is arranged non-coaxially to the first opening axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Edmund-Arnold Lienert, Florian Martin
  • Patent number: 11105450
    Abstract: A swivel flange fitting for a high-pressure flow line has a fitting body, a hub, and a rotatable flange. The fitting body has a central conduit with internal threads proximate to a terminus of the central conduit. The hub is threaded into the fitting body. The hub has a central conduit, a portion having a nominal outer diameter, and an end. The portion has external threads engaging the fitting body internal threads. The end has an enlarged outer diameter relative to the nominal outer diameter, a flange-type union face, and an inward-facing shoulder. The rotatable flange has a central passage having an outward-facing shoulder and a plurality of openings adapted to accommodate threaded connectors for applying axial load to the flange. The flange outward-facing shoulder is adapted to bear on the hub inward-facing shoulder to transmit axial load applied to the flange from the flange to the hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: Cantex International, Inc.
    Inventor: Duy D. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 10895339
    Abstract: The disclosed subject matter includes embodiments of fluid couplings that prevent or discourage misconnection of fluid lines. In embodiments, a coupling device may be configured according to lookup table that defines compatible configurations of connectors. The configurations may be based on the presence and absence of interference members at standardized locations on the respective connectors. The interference members may include posts that mechanically interfere with other posts, but can be inserted into holes when two connectors have a compatible configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Assignee: NxStage Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Brugger, Dennis M. Treu, David S. Utterberg
  • Patent number: 10865908
    Abstract: An industrial plumbing fixture adaptor kit for connecting a handle assembly to a water valve and a related method. The kit may be used on a variety of water valves where different spacing exists between the handle and the water valve. The kit includes an adaptor having a conical element and hollow tube. A bushing is mountable between the conical element and external threads of the adaptor, and a handle is threadably attached to the adaptor and received in the bushing for forming a handle assembly. An interchangeable adaptor element is connectable to the water valve. Several interchangeable adaptor elements are provided, each with a different length and a different configured head. The interchangeable adaptor element is affixed to a stem of the water valve and is received in the hollow tube of adaptor when the handle assembly is secured to the fixture trim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: Paul D. Kristynik
  • Patent number: 10806918
    Abstract: Syringe assemblies comprising a disinfecting reservoir collar to ensure an adherence to aseptic techniques for use in flush procedures for vascular access devices (VAD's) are described. Also described are methods of disinfecting the vascular access devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Nichola Charles, Adam Zerda
  • Patent number: 10794052
    Abstract: A thinset floor drain comprises a saucer shaped mounting flange with a central lowermost circular perforated receptacle, and a perforated cup of smaller diameter that sits in the receptacle. The cup bears upward features including a grate support that threads into the inner thread of the cup, a grate that sits atop the upmost flange of the grate support, and grate tilting mechanisms. This structure serves not only as a flanged floor drain to drain surface water through the cylindrical core of the drain, it binds to a membrane beneath tiling and collects weeping water. The horizontal, vertical, and tilt adjustability of the upmost grate provide a safe grate surface that aligns with and is coplanar with the tile surface surrounding it. Because the receptacle sits below the subfloor, the grate will present a low profile above the surface of the subfloor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Inventor: Christopher Adam McLeod
  • Patent number: 10697809
    Abstract: A sensor, having: a mounting plate, the mounting plate fastened to a device to be monitored and having an alignment indication readable by a human; a sensor module, the sensor module configured to monitor the device; a housing and a fastener, the housing secured to the mounting plate by the fastener; a controller, the controller including a circuit board having logical and communication functionality; and an inner housing, the inner housing retaining a battery and also providing a mounting surface for the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignee: PETASENSE INC.
    Inventors: Peter Muller, Harsha Mokkarla, Abhinav Krushraj, Arun Santhebennur, Simon Xu
  • Patent number: 10682906
    Abstract: A fuel tank fill assembly is adapted to be coupled to a fuel tank to conduct fuel from a fuel nozzle to the fuel tank during fueling of a vehicle. The fuel tank fill assembly illustratively includes a relatively rigid filler pipe and a relatively flexible fuel hose that cooperate to provide a conduit for conveying fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: Stant USA Corp.
    Inventors: Darl Dufendach, Michael S. Brock
  • Patent number: 10422284
    Abstract: A motoring system for a gas turbine engine having: a reduction gear train having an input and output; a motor operably connected to the input; a clutch operably connected to the output, the clutch in operation engages and disengages the reduction gear train; and a pinned mechanical fuse operably connecting the output to the clutch, the pinned mechanical fuse having at least one shear pin. The pinned mechanical fuse having: an outer sleeve having a first section, second section, inner chamber, outer wall, and at least one through hole connecting the inner chamber to the outer wall within the first section; and an inner sleeve having a first portion, second portion, outer surface, and at least one blind hole located in the outer surface within the second portion. The second portion being located within the inner chamber and operably connected to the outer sleeve through at least one shear pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Matthew Allen Slayter, Richard Alan Davis, Paul F. Fox, Jeffrey Todd Roberts, Jeff A. Brown, James Vandung Nguyen, Benjamin T. Harder, Dwayne Leon Wilson, Brian McMasters, Daniel Richard Walker
  • Patent number: 10385551
    Abstract: Devices, apparatus, systems and methods for preventing lightning surges from entering metal plumbing, such as copper plumbing through the outside water hose valves, so as to eliminate pipe leaks caused by lightning strikes. To use the invention, the installer removes existing metal valves, and clamps a durable high temperature resistant non-conductive pressure rubber heater hose to the exposed exterior end of the copper piping. The other end of the hose is clamped to a reducer and a water control valve, such as a spigot. The assembly interrupts electrical surges from lightning from passing into the metal exterior valves on the sides of buildings and houses, which can damage the inside metal plumbing, such as the copper plumbing in the buildings and houses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Inventor: John J. Koshel
  • Patent number: 10359029
    Abstract: A connection piece for a pitch tube of a wind turbine in which the connection piece comprises a receiving portion into which the pitch tube is at least partially insertable. The connection piece is made from at least first and second parts. The first part comprises a first, at least partially annular sealing surface and the second part comprises a second, at least partially annular sealing surface. The first sealing surface and the second sealing surface, together with part of the surface of the pitch tube, form at least part of a surface that delimits a hollow space for receiving a seal, when the pitch tube is inserted into the receiving portion. At least one element varies the spacing distance between the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2019
    Assignees: ZF Friedrichshafen AG, ZF Wind Power Antwerpen N.V.
    Inventor: Wim Smet
  • Patent number: 10294647
    Abstract: A toilet seal for sealing between a plumbing fixture discharge and a waste drainpipe outlet is described. The toilet seal comprises a flange member having an inwardly extending flexible lip and one or more raised ridges defining an annular seal extending upwardly from an upper surface of the flange member. The toilet seal further includes a radiused wall extending downwardly from the flange member, which cooperates with the flange member to define a cavity for receiving a compressible member. The toilet seal further comprises a flexible sleeve extending downwardly from the radiused wall. Related methods are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: Coflex S.A. de C.V.
    Inventors: Eduardo Coronado, Pedro Gonzalez, Adam Robert Sampson, Tuan Van Le, Krishnaditya Arkalgud
  • Patent number: 10240403
    Abstract: Embodiments may generally take the form of a safety joint and methods related thereto. One embodiment may take the form of a safety joint deployable in a well. The safety joint includes a first sub and a second sub coupled to the first sub. The coupling of the two subs may include a first set of threads having a first orientation and a second set of threads having a second orientation different from the first set of threads. The first sub is decoupleable from the second sub upon disengagement of the first set of threads by rotation in a first direction followed by disengagement of the second set of threads by rotation in a direction opposite from the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael Joseph Gratzinger, Brian John Bethscheider
  • Patent number: 10164418
    Abstract: Mounting devices for an elongate flexible member, such as an electrical cable passing through the wall of a structure, are described. The mounting devices may include an elongate body having a longitudinal axis and elongate recesses that are inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis. An internal passageway for the elongate flexible member may pass through the elongate body parallel to the longitudinal axis, and apertures corresponding to the recesses may be disposed in the outer peripheral face of the elongate body. An engagement member, such as a ball, may be mounted in each recess and move along the recess. The engagement members, recesses and the apertures may be dimensioned to allow the engagement members to project partially beyond the outer peripheral face of the elongate body but to prevent the engagement members from leaving the recesses through the apertures in the outer peripheral face of the elongate body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: First Subsea Limited
    Inventors: Craig Richard Thomson, John Stuart Shaw
  • Patent number: 10092670
    Abstract: A medical accessory holder (10) is provided for use during processing of medical equipment. The holder (10) comprises a tray portion (11), retaining means (16, 17) associated with the tray portion (11), and securing means (13) provided on the tray portion (11). The retaining means (16, 17) are adapted to engage with a medical accessory (20) such that, once engaged, the medical accessory (20) cannot be disengaged without breaking the medical accessory holder (10), thereby rendering the holder (10) suitable only for single use. The securing means (13) enable the holder (10) to be secured to an article of medical equipment with which the medical accessory (20) is associated, during processing thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: Cantel (UK) Limited
    Inventor: David Robert Mason
  • Patent number: 10041618
    Abstract: Connection assembly (1) for connecting a first and second pipe end (201, 301) of pipes (200, 300). The pipe ends exhibit outwardly facing pipe locking profiles (203, 303). Locking segments (101) are distributed about the second pipe end (301) and have a connected (103) and a movable portion (105) with segment locking profiles (103a, 105a). The movable portion (105) is pivotable between an inward locking position and an outward free position. Among the pairs of facing locking profiles, comprising a first pair including the segment locking profile (103a) and facing pipe locking profile (303) of the second pipe end, and a second pair, at least one pair exhibits an inclined face (S1, S2, S3) which is misaligned a misalignment distance (M1, M2, M3) with respect to the facing inclined face (P1, P2, P3) of the profile with which it engages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: Aker Solutions AS
    Inventors: Hy Nguyen, Kent Häll, Øystein Waerstad
  • Patent number: 10030389
    Abstract: An insert body used in an existing aperture within a building panel, the body defining an aperture with geometry varied relative to the existing aperture, and comprising an inner surface, an outer surface, a front face and a rear face. The inner surface provides an inner side wall of the aperture to be formed, the outer surface provides for an outer side wall of the aperture to be formed and/or of the existing aperture to be varied. The outer side wall in use is located adjacent to the existing aperture side wall. The rear face provides a support surface for location upon the second face of the panel. The inner side wall terminates in at least one rim on the front face. The front face comprises at least one recessed region and each rim having a surface projected from the recessed region as a reference relative to the first face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Inventor: Brian Leonard Moore
  • Patent number: 10006573
    Abstract: A connector is used to connect a gases supply to a user. The user can be fitted with an interface, such as a cannula, while the gases supply can include a conduit. The connector interfaces between the conduit and the interface. The connector has a female assembly and a male assembly that connect together, such as by push fit. The male assembly includes an inner portion sized and configured to mate with a first female connector and an outer portion sized and configured to alternatively mate with a second female connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: FISHER & PAYKEL HEALTHCARE LIMITED
    Inventors: Samuel Robertson Frame, Martin Paul Friedrich Kramer, Kevin Peter O'Donnell, Graham Douglas Gourd
  • Patent number: 9803651
    Abstract: A turbocharger housing includes a discharge outlet having a tubular configuration that extends tangentially from a peripheral portion of the housing and an externally threaded section adjacent the end of the discharge outlet to allow the discharge outlet to be connected either to a hose by a hose clamp or to a flanged pipe via an internally threaded flange engaging the externally threaded section of the discharge outlet and a V-band clamp securing the flanges together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: Bullseye Power, LLC
    Inventor: David M. Hall
  • Patent number: 9777489
    Abstract: An elevator trench drain includes a trench and a drain passageway. The trench has a base wall with peripheral side walls extending upwardly therefrom to define a trench volume therein. The drain passageway extends downwardly from the base wall of the trench and places the trench volume in fluid communication with a lower opening of the drain passageway. The drain passageway has a first section proximate the base wall defining a first cross-sectional area and a second section distal the base wall defining a second cross-sectional area. The second cross-sectional area is less than the first cross-sectional area and this reduction in cross-sectional area produces a head pressure that increases the flow out of the lower opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: Zurn Industries, LLC
    Inventors: David M. Gomo, Robert A. DiPlacido, Jaroslaw J. Plachotnik, Jason E. Morris
  • Patent number: 9702214
    Abstract: A cap for sealing a wellhead assembly of a subterranean well and suspending well assets (e.g., tubing, rods, etc.) therefrom within the well to facilitate production at the well after a period of abandonment. For instance, a decompletion process may be performed on a particular well to be temporarily abandoned which may include disconnecting a pumpjack (e.g., horsehead unit, pumping unit, etc.) from a wellhead of the well, breaking (e.g., disconnecting) the wellhead at the first flange (e.g., closest to ground level) to leave a casing head of the wellhead exposed, and/or the like. Ends of a tubing string and a rod string disposed within the subterranean well may be respectively secured within portions of the disclosed cap. The cap may then be placed and secured over the exposed casing head to limit entry of foreign objects and debris into the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: Bulldog Services, LLP
    Inventor: Herbert D. Turner
  • Patent number: 9663934
    Abstract: A new floating nipple assembly 200 comprises: a set of floating nipples 210 or threaded adapter sleeves, the floating nipples having inner voids and exteriors of outer male threads 214; a seal body 100 comprising ear assemblies 110 defining ear voids 220, the ear voids having inner female threads 222; closet bolts 230 inserted through a soil pipe flange 300, the closet bolts inserted through the ear voids 220, nipples 210 and a toilet base 410; and integrated cap nuts 500 placed over the toilet base 410 and frictionally attached to the ends of the closet bolts 230. Disclosed embodiments provide for wax free installation of toilets in either new construction or in retrofit projects. The floating nipple assemble system allows a plumber to effortlessly adjust the height of the seal body by merely rotating the floating nipples within the ear voids of the seal body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Inventor: Scott E Duncan
  • Patent number: 9643278
    Abstract: A hose assembly includes a plurality of lines for supplying a welding torch with operating media, such as welding current, welding wire, protective gas and/or control signals. The lines include a coolant line for feeding cooling medium of a coolant source to a welding torch. The hose assembly has a coupling element for detachably connecting to a welding unit or to a welding torch. A further coupling element for the coolant line is integrated in the coupling element. The coupling and decoupling direction of the further coupling element is orientated transverse to the longitudinal axis of the hose assembly. The coupling elements can each be coupled and decoupled independently from each other. A plug element is used in the coupling element. The coolant line has a plug connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: FRONIUS International GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Anzengruber, Rudolf Brandstoetter
  • Patent number: 9528640
    Abstract: A tightness-indicating tube fitting is disclosed. The tightness-indicating tube fitting includes a tube inserted into a body, at least one ferrule disposed around the tube, a nut fastened onto the body to deform the ferrule for providing a seal between the body and the tube, and a check ring having a pressure-receiving section protruding from a side of the check ring facing the nut. The pressure-receiving section has an inner diameter part which is provided with a slope. When the nut is fastened onto the body by the amount of nut rotation corresponding to a predetermined length as the nut moves forwards after having made an initial contact with the slope of the pressure-receiving section, a pressing force of the nut acts on the slope and the check ring is detached from the body by a pressing force of the nut such that a fastened state of the nut is checked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: BMT Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jong-Chan Yoon
  • Patent number: 9440104
    Abstract: A dry sprinkler for a fire protection system having a configuration with one or more coupling arrangements for connection to a fluid supply piping of the system. The dry sprinkler structure further includes an inner surface and inner assembly to provide a preferred discharge performance. The dry sprinkler provides for a flow rate from the outlet of the sprinkler in accordance with the start pressure at the inlet of the sprinkler and the rated discharge coefficient, K factor, ranging between 16.8 GPM/PSI½ and 33.6 GPM/PSI½.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventors: Yoram Ringer, Manuel R. Silva, Jr., George B. Coletta, Roger H. Leduc, Sean D. Weed
  • Publication number: 20140265303
    Abstract: A fitting for plumbing systems, such as drain/waste/ventilation (DWV) systems that is chemically and mechanically joinable is described. A socket of the fitting has an interior surface configured for chemically joining with tubing. An exterior surface of the socket includes a plurality of projections extending radially outward therefrom. A collar that includes a sidewall with a plurality of bayonet-style channels configured to engage respective projections is provided. Interaction of the projections with the channels during rotation of the collar with respect to the fitting draws the collar toward the fitting and compresses an O-ring between the collar, socket, and tubing inserted therein to form a fluid-tight seal and/or mechanically couple the tubing in the socket. The collar may include longitudinally depending flanges that are depressed against the tubing by a compression ring to mechanically couple the tubing in the socket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: SIOUX CHIEF MFG. CO., INC.
    Inventor: Dominic P. Ismert
  • Patent number: 8764069
    Abstract: A pipe coupling adapted to support a pipe which is freely insertable into the coupling. The coupling includes a hollow body having external threads and a tapered inner surface. A nut having internal threads is co-operable with said body external threads at a first end and with an outwardly converging inner tapered surface at a second end. The coupling includes a deformable gripping member having an internal bore which receives said pipe. The bore includes a first internal surface and a second internal surface, where the second internal surface is of a smaller diameter than the first internal surface. This configuration accommodates pipes of a different diameters. Both of the first and second internal surfaces typically have projections that engage the pipe upon tightening of the nut. The projections for of one of the two different surfaces engage the pipe, depending on its diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Philmac Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Peter Newall, David Chelchowski, Malcolm John Pridham
  • Patent number: 8752865
    Abstract: A drain pan collects condensate water from an air conditioner. A drain line includes an elbow connecting the pan to a vertical pipe that drains the condensate water to outside. The drain line must be periodically cleaned to prevent clogging. A kit and method is provided to modify the drain line so that it can then be cleaned more easily, and components are provided to facilitate the drain line cleaning process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventor: Gregory Coogle
  • Patent number: 8490638
    Abstract: A retrofit valve assembly for a frost-resistant hydrant comprises a replacement valve assembly and stem sufficiently long enough to enable the replacement stem to be cut and readily retrofit to existing frost-resistant hydrants of different lengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Amerikam, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick Fitzpatrick
  • Patent number: 8485564
    Abstract: A thread structure for an aerator of a water faucet outlet, wherein an internal and/or external thread structure of the aerator enables the aerator to be engaged with both metric and imperial internal threads on the water faucet outlet, wherein the dimensions of the structure is based on the pitch, the major diameter and the pitch diameter of the metric and imperial thread of the water faucet outlet and the variation tolerance, and wherein calculations are made based on the universal measurement of corresponding pitch, major diameter and, pitch diameter and the variation tolerance, such that the aerator can be engaged and locked in a metric faucet water outlet and also can be engaged and locked in an imperial faucet water outlet, thereby achieving a universal utilization effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Chuan Wei Metal Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chi-Chuan Chen
  • Publication number: 20130113202
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a connection arrangement (500) for mechanically and fluidly connection a fuel filter to a fluid meter in a fuel dispenser and a method for assembly the connection arrangement. The connection arrangement comprises: a first part (100), a second part (200) and a filter holding part (300), all parts being connected along a common centre axis. Said first part comprises: an outlet (11) for fluid communication with an inlet of said fluid meter, a first connection interface (120) for mechanical connection to said fluid meter, an inlet (130) for fluid communication with the filter hold part, and a second connection interface (140) for mechanical connection to said second part. Said second part comprises: a third connection interface (210) for mechanical connection to said second connection interface (140), and a fourth connection interface (220) for mechanical connection to said filter holding pat (300).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Dresser Wayne AB
    Inventors: Bengt Ingemar Larsson, Marie Hakansson
  • Publication number: 20130113203
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a kit of parts (1), comprising plurality of hose connection parts (2,3) selectable from, first hose connection parts (2) comprising one fluid inlet (5) and one fluid outlet (8), second hose connection parts (3) comprising two fluid inlets (7,8) and one fluid outlet (9), and third hose connection parts comprising three fluid inlets and one fluid outlet, which kit of parts (1) is suitable for assembly a hose connection (61,82,83,64) having at least a first and second fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, according to any one of three configurations. The invention also relates to a fuel dispensing unit (85) for refueling vehicles and a method for assembly a hose connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Mattias Martensson, Lars Andersson, James DiRocco Jr.
  • Patent number: 8393649
    Abstract: A flange of a first pipe and a flange of a second pipe are connected via the flanges. An annular seal groove is formed in the flange surface of the flange. A sealing liquid is poured and placed in the seal groove from a sealing liquid pouring section via a pouring passage. The sealing liquid placed in the seal groove forms a liquid seal structure to improve sealing ability. Further, the sealing liquid is placed also in a discharge passage and a discharge pipe. When gas in the pipes enters the seal groove, the gas can be discharged from a discharge device and detected by a gas sensor to enable the user to take safety measures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshinori Kitaguchi
  • Patent number: 8240719
    Abstract: An adaptor for converting to a push-to-connect tube fitting/port a standard tube fitting/port body having a threaded portion for threaded attachment of a nut/plug, comprises a coupling nut/plug having an axially inner threaded end portion for threaded attachment to the threaded portion of the fitting/port body; a tube sealing member contained within the nut/plug for sealing to a tube having a locking surface spaced from the end of the tube; and a retention device retained in the nut/plug, which nut/plug has at an axially outer end thereof a central opening through which the tube can be inserted into the coupling nut/plug, whereby the locking surface can be engaged by the retention device to prevent axial withdrawal of the tube from the coupling nut/plug once inserted; wherein sealing and retention of the tube is effected within the confines of the coupling nut/plug and separate from and without requiring modification of the standard tube fitting/port body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Andreas Udhöfer, Dieter Ehrke, Hiralal Patel, Le Yu, Kenneth P. Girod, Luis Moreiras, Andreas Weil
  • Patent number: 8117724
    Abstract: A method for joining fluid carrying steel pipes together including the following steps. Identifying a subject pipe section to be replaced and intercepting the fluid flow by fastening stoppers inside of pipe portions upstream and downstream from the subject pipe section. Removing the subject pipe section, leaving in place upstream and downstream pipe portions. Inserting along each of the first and second pipe portions a protective stopper and chamfering the edges of those pipe portions and then mounting first and second sliding sleeves with sealing rings thereover. Removing the protective stoppers from the pipe portions and positioning between those pipe portions a new connection piece. Displacing the first and second sliding sleeves onto the connection piece so that sealing rings are arranged on the connection piece and fixing the sliding sleeves to the pipe portions and to the connection piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Hera S.p.A.
    Inventors: Franco Volta, Diego Gallerani
  • Patent number: 8096591
    Abstract: A split ring restraint device having dual pipe size capability for securing the connection between adjacent pipes in water piping systems to prevent leakage or failure of the pipe connection. The restraint device comprises an interlocking, stepped joining interface that can be assembled in one orientation to fit a pipe having a first outside diameter and assembled in another orientation to fit a pipe having a second outside diameter. The restraint device can be used without modification on pipes having different outside diameters. The restraint device can be installed more rapidly than current state-of-the art split ring restraint devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: The Ford Meter Box Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Zachary J. Gentile, Jr., Earl Sinjon Bradberry, Adam Pennington, John K. Lonergan
  • Patent number: 7992585
    Abstract: A retrofit valve assembly for a frost-resistant hydrant comprises ceramic valve disks and a hydrant adapter to enable the valve assembly to be readily retrofit to existing frost-resistant hydrants produced by different manufacturers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Amerikam, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick Fitzpatrick
  • Patent number: 7985068
    Abstract: A coupling for attaching a canister to an appliance comprises a first connector on the canister comprising screw threads and a groove and a second connector on the appliance that comprises a slip ring. The slip ring retains the canister on the appliance. An appliance comprises a canister having screw threads. A coupling connects the canister to the appliance separate from the screw threads where the coupling locks the appliance to the canister without rotating the appliance relative to the canister. The coupling locks the appliance to the canister when the canister is moved axially relative to the appliance. A canister is provided that has a connector comprising a set of screw threads for attaching the canister to a first type of appliance, and a groove for attaching the canister to a second type of appliance. A method of connecting a canister to an appliance is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool Company
    Inventors: Thomas A. Burdsall, Michael R. Johnston
  • Patent number: 7967343
    Abstract: An adapter for pipe locking clamps, particularly but not exclusively useful for welding portions of plastic piping by polyfusion. The adapter has at least two bodies obtained from a metal plate, and arranged parallel to each other. The bodies have respective circular arc-like lateral rims that have a same radius of curvature. The centers of curvature of the circular arc-like lateral rims are all arranged on a same axis so as to form a partially cylindrical concave surface forming an open cradle which is adapted to lock the pipes in cooperation with a similar surface formed on a complementary and opposite reduction unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Ritmo S.p.A.
    Inventor: Renzo Bortoli
  • Patent number: 7938450
    Abstract: A universal coupling assembly is provided including a housing having an inner bore that extends along an axis through a fluid port and a flange formed integral with the housing and the inner bore. The flange extends radially outward from the axis and has a mating surface. A nipple extends from the flange along the axis toward the fluid port. The nipple has a mating interface at an end thereof, and the nipple has a junction portion extending at least partially about the nipple and located between the mating interface and the flange. The junction portion and the mating interface are configured to receive at least two different types of interchangeable fittings based on a type of mating joint, and the junction portion is matable with one of a flange fitting, a threaded union fitting, a sweat fitting, an NPT fitting, and a barb fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Grundfos Pump Corporation
    Inventor: Ken Lum
  • Patent number: 7914050
    Abstract: An adaptor (45) for converting to a push-to-connect tube fitting/port a standard tube fitting/port body (10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610) having a threaded portion (11) for threaded attachment of a nut/plug (12), comprises a coupling nut/plug (12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612) having an axially inner threaded end portion for threaded attachment to the threaded portion (11) of the fitting/port body (10); a tube sealing member (15, 115, 215, 315, 415, 515, 615) contained within the nut/plug (12) for sealing to a tube (19) having a locking surface (22) spaced from the end of the tube (19); and a retention device (23) retained in the nut/plug (12), which nut/plug (12) has at an axially outer end thereof a central opening through which the tube (19) can be inserted into the coupling nut/plug (12), whereby the locking surface (22) can be engaged by the retention device (23) to prevent axial withdrawal of the tube (19) from the coupling nut/plug (12) once inserted; wherein sealing and retention of the tube (19) is
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Andreas Udhöfer, Dieter Ehrke, Hiralal Patel, Kenneth P. Girod, Luis Moreiras, Andreas Weil, Le Yu
  • Patent number: 7871109
    Abstract: A drain basin has a basin with walls and a cavity therein. The basin can have one or more sleeves coupled thereto. The sleeves are in communication with the cavity. The sleeves form pipe couplings to the basin. Each sleeve has a free end and a fixed end. The fixed end is coupled to the basin. The sleeve has an inside diameter that decreases toward the fixed end, which inside diameter is structured and arranged to receive the outside diameter of a small pipe. The sleeve also has an outside diameter that increases toward the fixed end, which outside diameter is structured and arranged to receive the inside diameter of a larger pipe. In addition, catches are provided to couple a corrugated pipe to the sleeve. The catches comprise fingers that flex or projections on ribs. Thus, the drain basin allows several diameters of several different pipes to be coupled to the drain basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: DFW Alliance Corp.
    Inventors: James Stephen McKinnon, Carl Ryan Whitmarsh
  • Patent number: 7857354
    Abstract: A component-based utility supply apparatus includes a wall mounting bracket, a utility distribution unit mounted to the wall mounting bracket and an equipment management rail. The wall mounting bracket includes a longitudinally extending wall mounting flange and at least one longitudinally extending supporting flange. The utility distribution unit can comprise a fluid (gas) manifold, or a power distribution assembly, or both the gas manifold and the power distribution assembly may be coupled together with the wall mounting bracket and equipment rail to provide a combined power and gas utility configuration. The utility supply apparatus further comprises integrated lighting devices and light transmissive lens panel for supplying light along at least a portion of the utility supply apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Lifespan Healthcare, LLC, a Florida Limited Liability Company
    Inventors: Alex Bally, Barry D. Wixey, John P. Kasten, Gary M. Schindele, James Scott Stewart, Sr., Tomio Kato
  • Patent number: 7770934
    Abstract: A component-based utility supply apparatus includes a wall-mounting bracket, a utility distribution unit mounted to the wall mounting bracket and an equipment management rail. The wall mounting bracket includes a longitudinally extending wall mounting flange and a support bracket having an upper supporting flange and a lower supporting flange that are interconnected via a rear wall extending therebetween, the rear wall being attached to the mounting bracket. The utility distribution unit can comprise a fluid (gas) manifold, or a power distribution assembly, or both the gas manifold and the power distribution assembly may be coupled together with the wall mounting bracket and equipment rail to provide a combined power and gas utility configuration. The utility supply apparatus further comprises integrated lighting devices and light transmissive lens panel for supplying light along at least a portion of the utility supply apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Lifespan Healthcare, LLC
    Inventors: Alex Bally, Barry D. Wixey, John P. Kasten, Gary M. Schindele, James Scott Stewart, Sr., Eric Colburn, Tomio Kato
  • Publication number: 20100148488
    Abstract: A pipe, hose, or tube coupler fitting that has a male and a female adaption joint on one or all of its ends and a body that connects these ends. On the outermost end of the fitting body (10) is a female (14) joint that can connect to a male pipe end, and then immediately behind this female joint, is a male (12) joint. To do this, the body of the coupler fitting immediately behind the female joint is sized inside (16) diameter and outside (18) diameter, to the same size of its corresponding connecting pipes' inside diameter and outside diameter, and continues this size throughout a length (20) a minimum of its female joint length (28), thus becoming a male joint once said female joint is removed. Once said female joint is removed by cutting, unthreading or anyway removed, the male joint can be used. This new coupler fitting's end or ends are universal male or female, whichever is needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventor: Paul E. Homola
  • Publication number: 20100090456
    Abstract: An interchangeable fitting system generally involving a fitting, the fitting including a male connector and a female connector, the male and female connectors each having a forward portion and an aft portion, the male connector being interfaceable with a plurality of non-system female connectors, and the female connector being interfaceable with a plurality of non-system male connectors, the male connector having a primary sealing structure and a secondary sealing structure, the female connector having a primary sealing structure and a secondary sealing structure, and the male primary sealing structure being interfaceable with the female primary sealing structure, and the male secondary sealing structure being interfaceable with the female secondary sealing structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: CRYSTAL ENGINEERING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Thomas D. Halaczkiewicz, David K. Porter, William R. Ehrgott
  • Publication number: 20090256348
    Abstract: A water delivery component includes a fitting that can accommodate different types of connections. For example, a spout shank assembly or a valve assembly includes a fitting that can interface with hosing, piping or other conduit using a quick-connect method or a PEX connect method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventors: Mark S. Bors, Michael L. Malck, William E. Patton
  • Patent number: 7565730
    Abstract: A kit of parts includes a tubing component having at least two in-line sections with different external diameters and a set of connection devices. Each connection device is dimensioned such that it may be joined to the tubing component at a respective section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Reflok International Limited
    Inventor: Jon Shipman
  • Publication number: 20090179419
    Abstract: A nested bushing coupling for attaching a plumbing component to a conduit. The assembly includes at least one or more nested bushings having off-centered openings which may be situated at various orientations within a receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: Charles E. Daffin