Expandable Detent Engages Plate To Hold Nipple Patents (Class 285/140.1)
  • Patent number: 11446867
    Abstract: A three-dimensional (3D) printing process utilizing an atmospheric plasma to conduct an electromagnetic energy to fuse extruded successive layers of thermoplastic material having a conductive material is disclosed. A 3D printing system for the 3D printing process is also provided. The 3D printing system includes a 3D printer, an extrusion nozzle, a plasma emitter, and an electromagnetic energy source. The 3D printing process includes the steps of extruding a thermoplastic composite with the extrusion nozzle in successive layers to form a 3D part; directing a substantially evenly distributed plasma onto a predetermined location on the 3D part; and emitting an electromagnetic energy through the plasma. The plasma conducts the electromagnetic energy to the predetermined location on the 3D part. The thermoplastic composite includes a conductive material that generates heat by reacting to the electromagnetic energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: ESSENTIUM, INC.
    Inventors: Charles Brandon Sweeney, Blake Teipel, Travis Eubanks, John Stockton, Alex Stockton
  • Patent number: 10850088
    Abstract: A fluid-connection device capable of and intended for connecting a flexible pipe to a flexible or rigid pipe or enclosure in a biopharmaceutical assembly such as to provide fluid communication between two fluid spaces, including a first connector in fluid communication with the first fluid space, a second connector in fluid communication with the second fluid space, the first connector and the second connector optionally being coupled together in a coupling position, the first connector including a tubular nozzle which can be inserted in one end of the pipe, a pipe clamp being arranged around the end of the tube in order to clamp the pipe onto the tubular nozzle of the first connector, the second connector including protection elements which, in the coupling position, are positioned radially at least partially opposite the pipe clamp, whereby the pipe clamp cannot come into direct contact with external elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: SARTORIUS STEDIM FMT SAS
    Inventors: Florian Blake, Jeremy Gibelin
  • Patent number: 10478748
    Abstract: Technologies for providing a gas inlet and gas outlet to a compartment are described. In embodiments, the technologies include a dual channel connector unit that includes an inlet passageway and an outlet passageway. In embodiments at least a portion of the outlet passageway is disposed radially around the inlet passageway. The connector unit is configured to install into a portion (e.g., wall, bottom, top, or lid) of a compartment. Systems and methods including such connector units are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: SoClean, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy Leyva
  • Patent number: 10400465
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed towards skimmer systems for above-ground pools. In particular, the present disclosure relates to skimmer systems that are easily installed to the side wall of an above-ground pool. In addition, aspects of the present disclosure relate to a skimmer system for an above-ground pool that provides for an improved watertight seal between the skimmer system and the side wall of the pool. Further, aspects of the present disclosure relate to a weir that is easily installed into and removed from a skimmer system according to a user's needs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: POLYGROUP MACAU LIMITED (BVI)
    Inventors: Victor Ocegueda, Yifeng Zhang
  • Patent number: 10219890
    Abstract: Vascular devices and methods for addressing aortic pathologies are provided that facilitate hemostasis at the junctions of the ends of the device with the native aorta or other vessels to minimize or eliminate the risk of endoleaks. One or both ends of the device may include inner and outer skirts that are configured to receive a section of native blood vessel therebetween. The outer skirt may be flared in some cases or rolled up prior to placement at and engagement with the blood vessel to provide clearance for joining the blood vessel to the inner skirt of the device, such as via sutures. Once engaged, the outer skirt is disposed such that the blood vessel is between the inner and outer skirts. Devices and associated methods are also described that allow endografts to be deployed and engaged with an end of the device in areas with insufficient landing zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: Jeko Metodiev Madjarov
    Inventor: Jeko Metodiev Madjarov
  • Patent number: 10119632
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for producing a through hole in a floor system for pipe penetration. The method includes providing a deck system with ridge portions and valley portions; creating a hollow on the deck system; providing a ring with at least one securing ear formed on a perimeter thereof; mounting the ring onto the deck system by jointing the at least one securing ear of the ring and the at least one of the ridge portions such that the ring is fixedly received in the hollow of the deck system; and fixedly receiving a pipe casing in the ring mounted on the deck system, wherein the pipe casing defines a path for the pipe penetration. The method further includes forming a concrete layer on the deck system to obtain a composite slab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Inventor: Kuan-Lung Lin
  • Patent number: 10021875
    Abstract: Some embodiments provide an illumination system with an outer housing including a base, a central housing pivotably coupled to the base including a fluid inlet, and an upper housing including a fluid outlet. The inner housing defines a chamber and is coupled to the base, and includes a fluid aperture adjacent to the base, and a fluid aperture adjacent to the upper housing and a viewing aperture. The chamber houses an evaporator system not visible through the outer housing, and an illumination device. Some embodiments include a repellent system with a base including a fluid inlet pivotably coupled to a main housing enclosing an inner region, and including an upper portion with at least one fluid outlet. In some embodiments, an evaporator system within the inner region is not visible through the main housing. Some embodiments include an evaporator assembly that includes a lockable evaporator support to render the system non-refillable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: Broan-NuTone LLC
    Inventors: Karen Formico, Jeffery Emmerich
  • Patent number: 9962627
    Abstract: Technologies for providing a gas inlet and gas outlet to a compartment are described. In embodiments, the technologies include a dual channel connector unit that includes an inlet passageway and an outlet passageway. In embodiments at least a portion of the outlet passageway is disposed radially around the inlet passageway. The connector unit is configured to install into a portion (e.g., wall, bottom, top, or lid) of a compartment. Systems and methods including such connector units are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: SoClean, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy Leyva
  • Patent number: 9920869
    Abstract: A transfer tube includes a conduit with an inlet and an opposed outlet. The transfer tube also includes a retention tab extending from the inlet and a locking spring tab extending from the outlet. The locking spring tab includes a claw portion extending radially from the locking spring tab of the transfer tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Timothy M Davis, Jeremy Drake
  • Patent number: 9909446
    Abstract: A compact, highly-reusable, self-locking includes a body component, a flexible beam finger component with a plurality of axially-oriented flexible beam fingers and one or more outwardly extending tabs, an annular detent ring component including a plurality of detents in radial alignment with the plurality of flexible beam fingers, and a biasing component engaging the flange of the flexible beam finger component and the annular detent ring component for providing a biasing force to urge the flexible finger beam component in a direction of a central, longitudinal axis of the self-locking plug. The flexible beam finger component moves relative to the annular detent ring component when the body component is rotated about the central, longitudinal axis, A, of the self-locking plug, thereby causing the plurality of flexible beam fingers to travel across the plurality of detents and cause elastic deformation of the flexible beam fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Inventor: Kurt Kevin Bynum
  • Patent number: 9689517
    Abstract: A threadless connector includes a connector body having a central bore therethrough and a retainer ring disposed in an end of the connector body, the retainer ring comprising a plurality of teeth segments, wherein the plurality of teeth segments are configured to be inwardly angled to contact an end of a conduit inserted into the connector body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: REPUBLIC CONDUIT, INC.
    Inventors: Sheridon Petersen, Barry Peters, Bruce Thompson
  • Patent number: 9645324
    Abstract: An optical connector includes a ferrule, a ferrule retaining member having, at its rear end portion, a fastening portion into which an optical fiber is inserted and onto which a tightening ring configured to hold a tensile strength wire and a jacket in place is tightly fastened, a housing, and a fiber insertion passage formed through the fastening portion. The fiber insertion passage has an expansion space that ensures an interference avoidance gap with an outer circumference of the optical fiber inserted inside the fastening portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventor: Tomohiro Hikosaka
  • Patent number: 9593700
    Abstract: A compact, highly-reusable, self-locking includes a body component, a flexible beam finger component with a plurality of axially-oriented flexible beam fingers, a tab sleeve component including one or more downward extending tabs, an annular detent ring component including a plurality of detents in radial alignment with the plurality of flexible beam fingers, and a wave spring disposed between the tab sleeve component and the annular detent ring component for providing a biasing force to urge the tab sleeve component in a direction of a central, longitudinal axis of the self-locking plug. The flexible beam finger component moves relative to the annular detent ring component when the body component is rotated about the central, longitudinal axis, A, of the self-locking plug, thereby causing the plurality of flexible beam fingers to travel across the plurality of detents and cause elastic deformation of the flexible beam fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Inventor: Kurt Kevin Bynum
  • Patent number: 9322733
    Abstract: Ports for sensing one or more parameters in an HVAC system and methods for installing such ports. In one illustrative embodiment, a port provides a fluid passageway through a wall of an HVAC component such as an air duct. The port may be formed of a hollow stem member having a first end and a second end and a head member positioned therebetween. The port may include an anchor member for anchoring the port to a wall of the HVAC component. In some cases, the anchor member may secure the port within the wall such that the head member forms a substantially fluid tight seal with the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Petr Adamik, Steve Wolff, Reed Bisson, Amy Ragland
  • Patent number: 9308311
    Abstract: An anastomotic connector comprises a generally tubular main body having a distal end and a proximal end, and an anchor member integrally coupled to the distal end of the tubular main body. The anchor member includes first and second annular flanges that are movable from a first loaded position to a second expanded position. In the second expanded position, the annular flanges are substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tubular main body portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Assignee: PHRAXIS, INC.
    Inventors: Alexander S. Yevzlin, Reed A. Houge, Doug S. Wahnschaffe, Steve Berhow
  • Patent number: 9022326
    Abstract: A support for pipes uses a telescoping strut slidably holding an elongated insert with a threaded post extending outward from the insert, through a slot in the C-shaped cross-section of the struts. A bracket fits over the post and abuts supports opposing edges of the strut. A nut on the post clamps the parts immovably together. The bracket has a depending portion extending below the strut with an opening through which a pipe passes. Two threaded couplers with opposing ramped surfaces encircle the pipe and deform when tightened to clamp the pipe while also clamping opposing sides of the depending portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Securus, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry D. Brown, Virgil O'Neil, Dennis L. Hart
  • Publication number: 20140028018
    Abstract: A nipple adapter is provided to secure a sensor to a fixture to be controlled by the sensor. The nipple adapter includes a collar bushing to be blind fitted to an opening in the fixture. A cooperating nipple is secured to the sensor and the nipple is press fit into the collar bushing and the sensor and nipple are rotated to engage locking structures in the collar bushing and secure the sensor and nipple adapter to the fixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: The Watt Stopper, Inc.
    Inventors: Louia Weidman, Todd Hu
  • Patent number: 8511716
    Abstract: A connection arrangement for a wall passage, in particular for positioning with a through-opening of a wall element and for the connection of at least one media conduit. The connection arrangement including a connector part with a first connection section that is to be passed through the through-opening, and an oppositely placed second connection section with a contact element for limiting the amount of insertion at the wall element, as well as with a retaining element for locking the connector part in its assembly position, where it is inserted into the through-opening. The connector part includes at least two separate parts, an installation part for retention in the through-opening of the wall element and a connection part, which can be connected to the installation part, and which further contains the connection sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: VOSS Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Josef Brandt, Sascha Rosenfeldt, Ulrich Hiltemann, Martin Lechner
  • Patent number: 8297657
    Abstract: A joint for a fluid line of a vehicle for conveying a fluid through a vehicle frame member includes a unitary body having a first end adapted for engagement to a first fluid conduit and a second end adapted for engagement to a second fluid conduit. The body is sized to span between first and second walls of the vehicle frame member. A bore extends axially through the body and fluidly connects the first and second fluid conduits. The joint includes at least one connector configured to engage the vehicle frame member for releasably mounting the joint to the vehicle frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Scott J. Volchko
  • Patent number: 7992622
    Abstract: A fitting assembly for connecting an oil cooler assembly to a radiator assembly in a vehicle cooling system includes a radiator having an inlet header tank with an outer wall. The outer wall includes an inlet cooler opening and an outlet cooler opening disposed in the outer wall. The inlet cooler opening is disposed about an inlet axis and the outlet cooler opening is disposed about an outlet axis. An oil cooler having an inlet manifold and an outlet manifold is disposed within the header tank. A fitting interconnects the oil cooler and the header tank of the radiator. A pair of tracks are integrated with the outer wall and are disposed within the header tank. A spring clip extends between the tracks and the fitting for retaining the fitting to the header tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel S Newman, Timothy John Peters
  • Publication number: 20110148097
    Abstract: This invention relates to the field of connectors used to connect gas sources to apparatus for the administration or other use of gas or mixtures of gases, and more specifically to connectors used for gas administration for respiratory support of a user or patient. The connectors according to the present invention are shaped to be specifically compatible only with like connectors for each specific type gas or gas mixture used in the application, thus reducing or eliminating the chance for user error in connecting the wrong distribution connector to a particular supply connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Jeffrey H. Ping
  • Patent number: 7963567
    Abstract: A plumbing strap is fastened to a building. A tubular insert is placed through a hole in a strap with posts on the tubular insert aligning with cut-outs in the strap to restrict rotation of the tubular insert relative to the strap. A flange on one end of the tubular insert abuts the strap to restrict longitudinal motion of the tubular insert. Latches on the tubular insert extend through the hole in the strap to engage the side of the strap opposite the flange and further restrict longitudinal movement of the tubular insert. A collar is placed over the tubular insert and a pipe extends through the tubular insert and collar. The tubular insert has a base adjacent the flange and a skirt distal from the flange. Longitudinal slits in the base and skirt define resilient members in the base and in the skirt that extend in opposing directions, but that can move inward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Securus, Inc.
    Inventors: Luis Gallardo, Larry D. Brown, Dennis Hart
  • Patent number: 7857360
    Abstract: A coupler that can be configured for easy insertion and removal from an unthreaded cavity within a manifold or other part. The coupler includes an axially movable lock member that also carries a valve member for sealing against a valve seat of a main coupler body. The coupler also has a plurality of radially flexible fingers spaced apart by slots, and a lock member has one or more stop portions that engage the fingers to prevent radial collapse of the fingers for retention of the coupler in the cavity in the part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Todd D. Lambert, Shawn D. Ellis, Brian K. Foner
  • Publication number: 20100253069
    Abstract: A connection fitting (1) for cables (23), tubes or the like includes a tensioning element (6) which is inserted into the opening (2) in a wall (3) and latches thereto. A screw sleeve (5) which is connected to a lock (13) is screwed onto the tensioning element (6), wherein the lock (13) engages in the tensioning element (6) in the position of use and locks the latching. Fitting onto the screw sleeve (5) is a union nut (4) which is used to actuate clamping lamellae (25) which are formed on the screw sleeve (5) and clamp the cable (23) or the tube or the like. The screw threads are in the same direction, with the result that, when the union nut is screwed against the tensioning element, the screw sleeve is concomitantly moved and the screw sleeve (5) is screwed against the tensioning element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: HUMMEL AG
    Inventors: Mario Bartholoma, Fritz Zugel, Volker Gotz, Philipp Gerber
  • Publication number: 20090107872
    Abstract: The present invention includes a mounting structure having a flange and a plurality of hook portions formed integrally with a piping member. The flange can contact a first surface of an element having a through-hole formed therein. The hook portions extend from the flange for inserting into the through-hole and can resiliently deform in a radial direction with respect to the axis of the flange. Each hook portion has a hooking end that can engage a second surface of the element opposite to the first surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: AISAN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hitoshi SAKAKIBARA, Takayuki USUI
  • Patent number: 7472929
    Abstract: A connector for the connection of hoses, comprising a first connection stub having a first free end for receiving a first hose, and a second connection stub for receiving a second hose. The first hose has an inner diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the second hose, and the second connection stub is provided with a shoulder that, in a direction toward the second free end, decreases from a first outer diameter to a second outer diameter, with the first outer diameter being larger than the inner diameter of the first hose. The second outer diameter can be smaller or the same as the inner diameter of the first hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: Antonio Fattorusso, Jürgen Häberlein
  • Patent number: 7384073
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a nonremovable tube fitting or member for insertion into a container to access the interior of the container. In one embodiment, the fitting includes a hollow body having a proximal end and a distal end. The hollow body is partially insertable from the distal end through the opening of the container. The hollow body includes a proximal cap near the proximal end. The proximal cap is larger in size than the opening of the container. The hollow body includes a hole extending from the proximal end in a direction toward the distal end for receiving the tube through the hole. A capture member is coupled with the hollow body. The capture member is movable between an expanded position and a contracted position. The capture member in the contracted position has a lateral dimension sufficiently small to be inserted through the opening of the container. The capture member moves to the expanded position upon insertion into the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Automatic Bar Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Tuyls, Juha K. Salmela, Thomas R. Hecht
  • Patent number: 7325838
    Abstract: A liquid-tight electrical connector formed by a one-piece, zinc die cast member including a ferrule insertable into a conduit, and a sleeve body surrounding the ferrule to form a conduit receiving channel, the sleeve body having a strap section that can be drawn tight around a conduit to secure it in the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Halex/Scott Fetzer Company
    Inventors: Michael J. Gardner, Bettie J White, legal representative, Robert R. White, deceased
  • Patent number: 7240700
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system for reducing the noise that enters the vehicle compartment through a hole in a drain plug. In an embodiment, the system includes a drain plug with a washer, a shank with an inlet fluidly coupled to an outlet, a cylindrical wall and a disc configured to occlude the outlet. The assembly may include a seal. When installed, the seal seals the washer to the mounting surface while the disc occludes the outlet so as to reduce the entry of noise through the drain plug while providing a passageway that allows the accumulated water to drain away.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc
    Inventors: Christopher Michael Pangallo, Duane M. Schultz
  • Patent number: 7222885
    Abstract: A drain seal for connecting a drain tube to a support structure includes a molded unitary body having first and second moldingly joined portions, each formed of dissimilar durometer materials. The first portion is formed to sealingly join the body to a drain tube. The second portion is formed to mount the body in an aperture in a support structure. A bore extends completely through the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Cooper Standard Automotive, Inc.
    Inventors: Lyle D. Tincknell, Darryl T. Bradley, James D. Grant, Timothy J. Stuart, James E. Ostrander, Daniel E. Snead
  • Patent number: 7083202
    Abstract: In a device for providing wall ducts for conduits, tubing or electric cables for motor vehicles, each of the conduits, tubing or electric cables, in the area of the wall duct, has a coupler. Each coupler includes two coupler halves. First coupler halves, respectively, are jointly held in the device providing wall ducts. The first coupler halves are held together in groups of at least two by a bracket, and the coupler halves bundled this way are held in plugs, which are arranged in orifices of a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche Aktiengeselleschaft
    Inventors: Wilfried Eberle, Heiner Klatte
  • Patent number: 7025387
    Abstract: The connection device (101, 201) according to the invention has a locking head (109, 209) that can be locked to an opening (8) of a container wall (3). A clamping device (123, 223) is also provided on the corresponding coupling piece (5), which serves to tighten the head (109, 209) locked to the container wall (3) without a rotational movement against the container wall (3). The clamping device (123, 223) can be designed as a wedge-clamping device (142, 242). The latter permits generation of large clamping forces with small operating forces. The clamping device (142, 242) is preferably secured by a locking device (253), so that vibration-proof connection resistant to temperature changes is achieved during simple assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Eaton Fluid Power GmbH
    Inventors: Harald Twardawski, Thomas Luft, Bernd Halbrock, Michael Markus Huck
  • Patent number: 6905143
    Abstract: A fluid quick connector adapted to be releasably mounted in a bore in a fluid use component. The quick connector includes a housing having a through bore releasably receiving a tubular endform. A retainer is mountable in the housing to latch the endform in the housing. A latch member carried on the housing is releasably engagable with a complementary latch receiver in the fluid use component. In one aspect, a latch member is carried on the end of at least one arm extending from the housing. Seal members are mountable in the bore in the fluid use component and retained in place by a top hat mountable in the quick connector housing. The top hat maintains the latch member in engagement with the latch receiver an the fluid use component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary O. Klinger, Michael J. Andre
  • Patent number: 6902206
    Abstract: A quick connector for establishing a connection between a flexible tube and an interior chamber of a vessel. The vessel has a wall structure through which a mounting bore extends. A canister assembly associated with the quick connector includes a housing is adapted for installation in the mounting bore, a retainer coupled to the housing that adapted to accept and retain a port connector of the hose therein, and a spring clip for coupling the housing to the wall structure. Flanged ends of the spring clip are retained in, and project outwardly from, corresponding apertures formed through a leading end of the housing. Upon installation of the housing into the mounting bore, the end flanges are deflected inwardly until the leading end of the housing extends beyond the mounting bore. Then the flanged ends return to their expanded condition, thereby coupling the canister assembly to the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Miniature Precision Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Jed W. Zenko, Duane Eckard
  • Patent number: 6883538
    Abstract: A flow control valve coupling structure that does not require complicated machining and facilitates the installation of a flow control valve. The coupling structure includes a fitting portion having a male thread that is formed on a peripheral surface of the flow control valve. A coupled member has a coupling hole to receive the flow control valve. A cylindrical elastic sealing member is engaged with the coupling hole to seal the space between the flow control valve and the coupling hole. The elastic sealing member has an inner surface defining a mounting hole in which the fitting portion is fitted. A female thread is formed on the inner surface and is mated with the male thread of the fitting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignees: Pacific Engineering Corp., Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masayuki Toyokawa, Hiromu Nakamura, Ryohei Adachi, Iwao Murakami, Chikashi Ono
  • Publication number: 20040251682
    Abstract: A connector provides for tooless termination of a conduit. The connector includes a conductor housing having a first end for securement to a box, housing or the like. An opposite second end accommodates the conduit. A conduit securement member is attached to the second end of the housing. The conduit securement member is annular having a plurality of radially inwardly directed deflectable wings. The wings are deflectable upon conduit insertion to accommodate a range of conduit sizes and to establish electrical engagement therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Publication date: December 16, 2004
    Applicant: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventor: Roger Pyron
  • Publication number: 20040217591
    Abstract: A hose connector for hose of a dust collector is disclosed. The hose connector has a housing containing a blower, a blade module, a hose and the hose connector includes a covering plate, wherein the center of the covering plate of the hose connector is provided with a through hole and the lower edge next to the hose connector is protruded out an urging edge which can resist against the circumferential edge of the covering plate, and the lower edge of the hose connector is protruded out an engaging block which can engage to the lower inner edge of the through hole of the covering plate, and on the hose connector adjacent to the engaging block, a stopping pad is disposed such that when the stopping pad is at the covering plate of the hose seat the length of the stopping pad facing downward is beyond the top end of the blade module and a curved gap is formed between the stopping pad and the blade module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventor: Chun Hsiang Wang
  • Publication number: 20040094952
    Abstract: The connection device (101, 201) according to the invention has a locking head (109, 209) that can be locked to an opening (8) of a container wall (3). A clamping device (123, 223) is also provided on the corresponding coupling piece (5), which serves to tighten the head (109, 209) locked to the container wall (3) without a rotational movement against the container wall (3). The clamping device (123, 223) can be designed as a wedge-clamping device (142, 242). The latter permits generation of large clamping forces with small operating forces. The clamping device (142, 242) is preferably secured by a locking device (253), so that vibration-proof connection resistant to temperature changes is achieved during simple assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventors: Harald Twardawski, Thomas Luft, Bernd Halbrock, Michael Markus Huck
  • Patent number: 6722704
    Abstract: A connecting fitting used for fixing longitudinal bodies to perforations or openings, especially in the wall of a housing, which include retaining projecting elements that engage with the edge of the perforation from the rear, and a stop in the form of a plastic ring which, in use, lies on a side of the opening opposite the edge of the opening that is engaged from the rear. The elastic ring is supported by a surface of the connecting fitting which expands from an area adjacent the opening from inside toward outside in an oblique manner, whereby the ring can be moved and displaced axially when the diameter is elastically enlarged, in order to account for different wall thicknesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Anton Hummel Verwaltungs GmbH
    Inventors: Mario Bartholoma, Fritz Zugel, Volker Gotz, Philipp Gerber
  • Publication number: 20040041398
    Abstract: A quick connector for establishing a connection between a flexible tube and an interior chamber of a vessel. The vessel has a wall structure through which a mounting bore extends. A canister assembly associated with the quick connector includes a housing is adapted for installation in the mounting bore, a retainer coupled to the housing that adapted to accept and retain a port connector of the hose therein, and a spring clip for coupling the housing to the wall structure. Flanged ends of the spring clip are retained in, and project outwardly from, corresponding apertures formed through a leading end of the housing. Upon installation of the housing into the mounting bore, the end flanges are deflected inwardly until the leading end of the housing extends beyond the mounting bore. Then the flanged ends return to their expanded condition, thereby coupling the canister assembly to the vessel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Inventors: Jed W. Zenko, Duane Eckard
  • Patent number: 6637538
    Abstract: A connector component for fluidly or electrically connecting two or more devices to one another is constructed in such a manner that it can be repeatedly quickly and easily mounted to and subsequently separated from a connector mounting component. The connector component includes a mounting portion that is disposed within a connector opening in the connector mounting component when the connector component is mounted to the connector mounting component. The connector component includes at least one quick connect clip such as an E-clip or snap ring clip that can be engaged to the connector component to maintain its attachment to the connector mounting component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Peter M. Morykon, William Dennis Mann
  • Publication number: 20030197375
    Abstract: A fitting connector for a pressure vessel including a bushing for mounting within an aperture defined in a pressure vessel wall. The bushing includes a cylindrical bushing body having a head portion at one end thereof and including at least a pair of locking members for engaging along an interior surface of the pressure vessel wall. The locking members are provided with a contoured surface for engaging with detent members formed on the interior of the pressure vessel wall whereby the bushing is positively locked in a predetermined rotational orientation on the pressure vessel wall and is retained in place until a predetermined torque force is applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Carlton Pickering
  • Patent number: 6616193
    Abstract: A connector assembly for a heating, ventilating, air conditioning system includes a take-off pipe and a collar. The take-off pipe is cylindrical in shape and has a number or outwardly extending resilient tabs and grooved outer wall segments. The collar is cylindrically sized to mate with the take-off pipe, and has a number of protrusions extending from an inner wall. The take-off pipe is first inserted into an opening in a main duct, with the resilient tabs retaining the take-off pipe in place. The collar slides over the body with the protrusions engaging one of the grooves of the wall segments to retain the collar in place. Rotation of the collar disengages the protrusions from the grooves for collar removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Kool, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Dean D. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6595556
    Abstract: A quick connector for establishing a connection between a flexible tube and an interior chamber of a vessel. The vessel has a wall structure through which a mounting bore extends. A canister assembly associated with the quick connector includes a housing is adapted for installation in the mounting bore, a retainer coupled to the housing that adapted to accept and retain a port connector of the hose therein, and a spring clip for coupling the housing to the wall structure. Flanged ends of the spring clip are retained in, and project outwardly from, corresponding apertures formed through a leading end of the housing. Upon installation of the housing into the mounting bore, the end flanges are deflected inwardly until the leading end of the housing extends beyond the mounting bore. Then the flanged ends return to their expanded condition, thereby coupling the canister assembly to the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Minature Precision Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Jed W. Zenko, Duane Eckard
  • Publication number: 20030090105
    Abstract: A connecting fitting used for fixing longitudinal bodies to perforations or openings, especially in the wall of a housing, which include retaining projecting elements that engage with the edge of the perforation from the rear, and a stop in the form of a plastic ring which, in use, lies on a side of the opening opposite the edge of the opening that is engaged from the rear. The elastic ring is supported by a surface of the connecting fitting which expands from an area adjacent the opening from inside toward outside in an oblique manner, whereby the ring can be moved and displaced axially when the diameter is elastically enlarged, in order to account for different wall thicknesses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Mario Bartholoma, Fritz Zugel, Volker Gotz, Philipp Gerber
  • Publication number: 20030062720
    Abstract: A connector assembly for a heating, ventilating, air conditioning system includes a take-off pipe and a collar. The take-off pipe is cylindrical in shape and has a number or outwardly extending resilient tabs and grooved outer wall segments. The collar is cylindrically sized to mate with the take-off pipe, and has a number of protrusions extending from an inner wall. The take-off pipe is first inserted into an opening in a main duct, with the resilient tabs retaining the take-off pipe in place. The collar slides over the body with the protrusions engaging one of the grooves of the wall segments to retain the collar in place. Rotation of the collar disengages the protrusions from the grooves for collar removal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventor: Dean D. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6511099
    Abstract: A connection fitting for the fastening of elongated bodies, for example of cables (2) or also hoses, tubes, corrugated hoses and the like, in an opening (3), which can be a through hole or a boring in a wall (4) of a building. The connection fitting includes a clamping collet (9) which, in its operation position, penetrates the opening (3) and is self expanding behind the opening (3), and which, by means of an axial retraction opposite to the direction of insertion, is also radially compressible and thus exerts a clamping force on the elongated body. To effect this motion of retraction, a sheath (11) is provided, which is frictionally connected or force-fit connected with a locking ring (15), which, by rotational movement of the sheath (11) itself turns accordingly and, by its own threading, is axially displaced until the ring (15) abuts the wall (4) on the opening rim (12) and remains there in a stop position. In this way, the respective thickness of the wall (4) is accommodated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Anton Hummel Verwaltungs GmbH
    Inventors: Mario Bartholomä, Fritz Zügel, Volker Götz, Philipp Gerber
  • Patent number: 6497434
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing a duct arrangement adapted for installation through an opening in a wall (3), preferably of a vehicle. The arrangement includes an elongated ducting element (2) that has a sealing component (9) projecting therefrom on all sides and which is designed to bear against the edges of the opening so that sealing is produced between the two sides of the wall and establishes an installed position. Behind the component (9), when viewed in the direction of ducting, is a flexible section (5), which under loading of a part in front of the said section (5), permits displacement of the said part in relation to its unloaded longitudinal extent. The wall (3), when viewed from its front face in the direction of ducting, has a depression (6) formed all around the opening so that the opening essentially forms the lowest point of the depression (6). This configuration is designed to guide a tip of the ducting element (2) toward and through the opening to the installed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: Volvo Car Corporation
    Inventors: Måns Pettersson, Göran Johansson
  • Patent number: 6467814
    Abstract: Apparatus has a vessel fitting (2) and a retainer (10) that connect a core spray pipe system (4) to an opening (14) in a wall (8) in a vessel (9) in a boiling water nuclear reactor. The vessel fitting (2) has a plurality of resilient beams (76a), (766b), (76c), (76d), 76(e) and 76(f) arranged to extend into the opening (14) and lock the vessel fitting (2) in place on the vessel. The retainer (10) is installed on the vessel fitting (2) by inserting it through a passage (79) in the vessel fitting (2). The retainer (10) bears against the beams to maintain them in locking engagement with the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Company
    Inventor: Adrian P. Wivagg
  • Patent number: 6386550
    Abstract: A subterranean coupler for slidably receiving a pipe therethrough and for coupling the pipe to a subterranean vessel. The coupler is mountable to a reinforcing grid prior to the coupler and reinforcing grid being cast in a concrete wall of the subterranean vessel. The coupler includes a longitudinally-extending axis and a cylindrical wall defined about the axis, the wall having an inner surface, an outer surface, and first and second ends. The coupler further includes a plurality of radially-extending, circumferentially-spaced engagement members integrally-formed with the outer surface. The engagement members are engageable with grid members of the reinforcing grid to mount the cylindrical wall to the reinforcing grid prior to casting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Stepcon Industries Inc.
    Inventors: John Mokrzycki, Michael Greer