Radial And Longitudinal Expansion Compensators Patents (Class 285/224)
  • Patent number: 11719159
    Abstract: A transfer tube assembly comprises a transfer tube slidably engaged in sealing engagement with a first component. The transfer tube has a shoulder engageable with a stopper for limiting relative axial movement between the transfer tube and the first component. The shoulder has an abutment surface facing a corresponding bore surface of the first bore of the first component. The abutment surface and the bore surface are configured to generate axially opposing reaction forces in response to the abutment surface and the bore surface contacting each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: PRATT & WHITNEY CANADA CORP.
    Inventor: Gavin Kisun
  • Patent number: 11639763
    Abstract: An expansion pipe joint that absorbs displacement occurring at a connection portion between an upstream pipe and a downstream pipe includes an outer tube having a downstream end coupled to the downstream pipe, an inner tube that is inserted into the outer tube and has an upstream end coupled to the upstream pipe, and a closing member having elasticity that is provided between an upstream end of the outer tube and the upstream end of the inner tube so as to close a gap between them. Then, a difference between a position in an axial direction of the upstream end of the outer tube and a position in the axial direction of the upstream end of the inner tube is within a predetermined range so that a bus line of the closing member is inclined from the axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2023
    Assignee: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Keita Tsunemori, Munehiro Kikuta, Kazuya Tamaki
  • Patent number: 11598469
    Abstract: A length compensator for pipelines, preferably plastic pipelines, containing two connecting components, preferably made from plastic, a compensating element made from an elastic material, preferably a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), and a supporting pipe, wherein the compensating element is arranged between the two connecting components and the compensating element ends are connected to the connecting components, wherein the outer lateral surface of the compensating element is suitably encompassed by the inner lateral surface of the supporting pipe around its entire circumference, wherein the supporting pipe has a circular cross-sectional area and the compensating element expands and contracts exclusively in the axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: Georg Fischer Rohrleitungssysteme AG
    Inventors: Lenz Schmid, Jürgen Rösch, Robert Reiz, Markus Breyer
  • Patent number: 10625871
    Abstract: A tube connection system for an engine or aircraft includes a Coanda ring defining an annular tube segment which has a branch tube segment extending therefrom. A supply tube assembly defines a plurality of tube segments. Adjacent tube segments are moveably coupled to one another by one of a plurality of variable-positionable couplings. Another of the plurality of tube segments is moveably coupled to the branch segment by another of the plurality of variable-positionable couplings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: Roller Bearing Company of America, Inc.
    Inventor: Smail Vila
  • Patent number: 9255548
    Abstract: A disclosed hanger assembly for supporting a liner within a gas turbine engine exhaust nozzle includes a first mount for attachment to a case and a second mount for attachment to the liner. A u-joint assembly is attached between the first and second mounts and includes a first yoke and a second yoke aligned transverse to the first yoke. A pivot block is includes a first set of pins received by the first yoke and a second set of pins received by the second yoke. The u-joint assembly accommodates relative movement between the liner and case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Lon H. Preston, III
  • Patent number: 8833801
    Abstract: A compensator for connecting a first pipe connection piece to a second pipe connection piece that is arranged at a distance from the first pipe connection piece and that can be moved toward the first pipe connection piece includes an inlet pipe, which is fastened coaxially to the outlet opening of the first pipe connection piece, an outlet pipe, which is arranged approximately coaxially to the inlet pipe, is arranged at a distance from the inlet pipe and is fastened coaxially to the inlet opening of the second pipe connection piece, and a woven-fabric compensator, which connects the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe to each other, wherein gas laden with dust can flow through all aforementioned pipes, said gas being directed from the first pipe connection piece to the second pipe connection piece, and wherein a hollow cylindrical inlet guide plate is fastened to the inlet pipe near the first pipe connection piece, the radius of said inlet guide plate corresponding approximately to the inner radius of the first pi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Dekomte De Temple Kompensatortechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Gunther De Temple
  • Patent number: 8733800
    Abstract: The tube (60) includes first and second portions (66, 58) that each have mating spherical sections (82, 84) at adjacent ends (72, 74) of each portion (66, 68). The second portion (68) includes a spring sleeve (92) configured to surround an outlet end (72) of the first portion (66). A spring (102) is captured inside the spring sleeve (92) and secured between a retaining clip (100) and a shoulder (88) protruding from the exterior surface of an outlet end (72) of the first portion (66) to maintain fluid seals between the spherical sections (82, 84). The spherical sections (82, 84) permit slidable motion relative to each other thereby facilitating rotational and angular motion between the tube portions (66, 68). One of the two portions (66, 68) may include a telescope mount (110) to permit limited axial motion of the tube (60).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Jose E. Ruperte Sanchez, Russell B. Hanson, Kevin J. Low
  • Patent number: 8402760
    Abstract: The invention concerns a vibration-decoupling device for a hydraulic circuit and in particular concerns a vibration-decoupling device for a hydraulic circuit used in an agricultural vehicle. The device has a fluid transfer element (3) able to be connected at one end (4) to a high pressure outlet of a hydraulic pump (1) and to transport fluid expelled from the pump. The another end (5) of the fluid transfer element (3) is moveably connected with a fixed element (11) such as a gear assembly housing so that the fluid can be passed to a hydraulic consumer. A support element (9) is moveably connected with the fixed element (11) and the fluid transfer element (3) and acts so that a force is exerted on the fluid transfer element (3) in one direction while the other end (5) of the fluid transfer element (3) and the fixed element (11) remain securely connected together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: AGCO GmbH
    Inventor: Jurgen Knobloch
  • Patent number: 8052175
    Abstract: An exhaust pipe structure including paired separate exhaust pipes configured so that the paired separate exhaust pipes are supported in a vehicle provided horizontally in a manner such that a vertical load is applied from a first exhaust pipe, by a moment that turns the first exhaust pipe about an axis connecting two support members of the first exhaust pipe due to a weight of the first exhaust pipe, to a universal joint, and a vertical load is applied from a second exhaust pipe, by a moment that turns the second exhaust pipe about an axis connecting two support members of the second exhaust pipe due to a weight of the second exhaust pipe, to the universal joint. The vertical loads are approximately the same magnitude and act in opposite directions to combine to be substantially zero.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Junichi Yamaguchi, Yoshiki Horie
  • Patent number: 7883094
    Abstract: The invention is a sealing system that employs a unique array of offset components, including multiple seal rings, to provide an improved seal with enhanced functionality. In the preferred embodiment, a groove contains two canted-coil springs that are located in a side-by-side relation beneath a pair of expander rings that are also in a side-by-side relation. Located atop the expander rings are three seal rings that are similarly arrayed in a side-by-side relation. To prevent a leak path through the expander rings, a center one of the seal rings overlies the area between the two expander rings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventor: Smail Vila
  • Publication number: 20100244439
    Abstract: An expansion joint for a pipe system includes a deformable section interconnecting first and second pipe sections. A first mount is secured to the first pipe section in a passageway of the first pipe. A second mount is secured to the second pipe section in a passageway of the second pipe. A flexible tension member, extending through the deformable section, tethers the first and second mounts to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: MECS, INC.
    Inventor: Rafael C. Take
  • Patent number: 7784835
    Abstract: A pipe connecting mechanism having first and second pivot attachment systems that are rotatably attached to a central connecting portion. The central connecting portion has a telescopically extending connection where a flexing assembly allows for a prescribed amount of motion between the first and second pivot attachment assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventors: Steven J. Keays, Curtis L. Patterson
  • Patent number: 7665771
    Abstract: A flexible header joint for a high performance automobile is provided, wherein the first end of the joint receives a header collector and the second end of the joint receives an exhaust pipe. A cylindrical clamp maintains the joint in position to the header collector, the clamp having three spring retainers circumferentially positioned around the clamp. When the automobile is in motion, the clamp allows for the header to twist and rotate relative to the exhaust pipe while still maintaining the seal and thus preventing leakage of exhaust.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Jerry Roos
  • Patent number: 7556295
    Abstract: A pipe connection for exhaust pipes of internal-combustion engines. The pipe connection includes an axial and radial plug and an angle compensation. The pipe connection further includes a first pipe, a second pipe and an interior part at an end of the first pipe. The interior part is enveloped by a bell part at an end of the second pipe. The pipe connection further includes at least one lamellar ring held in an annular groove in either a) a radially outer surface of the interior part or b) a radially inner surface of the bell part. The at least one lameller ring is tensioned against either a) the radially outer surface of the interior part or b) the radially inner surface of the bell part. Either a) the radially outer surface of the interior part or b) the radially inner surface of the bell part is constructed as a concave surface. The at least one lameller ring is tensioned against the concave surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Fey Lamellenringe GmbH & Co., KG
    Inventor: Peter Ludwig Holzheu
  • Publication number: 20080265570
    Abstract: In, as part of, or for apparatus to discharge, or to receive a discharge of, a particulate material, (A) a tube, conduit, duct or the like and (B) a flexible tube end received and snap fit inter-engaged within said tube, conduit, duct or the like. The snap fit is of a pair of outward circumferential forms each into a complementary receiving groove of a ferrule.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Blair Forres McPheat
  • Patent number: 7163206
    Abstract: A jet pipe assembly containing at least one joint provided with a seal assembly to isolate, substantially, the fluid flowing in the pipe from the fluid external to the pipe. The dynamic member of the seal assembly is provided with both radial and cylindrical sealing surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Cross Manufacturing Company (1938) Limited
    Inventors: Rodney Alan Cross, Paul Anthony Blanchard
  • Patent number: 7011345
    Abstract: A pipe joint between cylindrical male and female couplers having terminal end portions with cooperating cam surfaces that facilitate assembly of the couplers. Cooperating projections on the couplers cam past one another when the couplers are assembled and restrain the couplers against separation. A gasket is interposed between the couplers, and the couplers are articulatable at least several degrees to permit some curvature to a string of pipe. The couplers have splines received in annular sockets in the ends of pipes, and the sockets are filled with adhesive to retain the splines therein. The gasket is prelubricated and protected by a plastic wrap that also provides protection against ultraviolet rays. Cylindrical ring couplers are formed by extruding a strip having a coupler cross-sectional profile, cutting a length of the strip and fusing the ends at a joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: The Lamson & Sessions Co.
    Inventor: George J. Foos
  • Patent number: 6709023
    Abstract: A flexible slide joint is provided for accommodating axial, rotational and angular misalignments between two fluid conveying members. The flexible slide joint basically has first and second tube members with a sliding sealing member and a axially compressible element coupled therebetween. The sliding sealing member is configured and arranged to accommodate axial movement upon a first predetermined axial force occurring between the first and second tube members. The axially compressible element is configured and arranged to accommodate axial movement upon a second predetermined axial force occurring between the first and second tube members. The axially compressible element is force balanced relative to the sliding sealing member such that the second predetermined axial force is smaller than the first predetermined axial force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: PerkinElmer Inc.
    Inventor: Hugh N. French
  • Publication number: 20030132630
    Abstract: A flexible slide joint is provided for accommodating axial, rotational and angular misalignments between two fluid conveying members. The flexible slide joint basically has first and second tube members with a sliding sealing member and a axially compressible element coupled therebetween. The sliding sealing member is configured and arranged to accommodate axial movement upon a first predetermined axial force occurring between the first and second tube members. The axially compressible element is configured and arranged to accommodate axial movement upon a second predetermined axial force occurring between the first and second tube members. The axially compressible element is force balanced relative to the sliding sealing member such that the second predetermined axial force is smaller than the first predetermined axial force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Applicant: PerkinElmer,Inc.
    Inventor: Hugh N. French
  • Patent number: 6422610
    Abstract: A deformable fluid supply line for use on a semiconductor fabrication machine is described which includes a generally S-shaped expandable joint connecting between two straight conduit sections for providing full communication thereinbetween and for providing stress absorbing characteristics such that the expandable joint can be stretched or otherwise deformed by at least 2 cm without breaking connections with the two straight conduit sections. When the generally S-shaped expandable joint is provided with a length of at least 10 cm, a deformation of at least 3.5 cm can be tolerated by the expandable joint without causing failure or otherwise damages in the connections with the two straight conduit sections. The deformable fluid supply line can survive an earthquake of the magnitude of Richter 5 scale. The invention further discloses a method for connecting a deformable fluid supply line to a fabrication machine by using an S-shaped joint connected in between two straight conduit sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Chi-Wei Chang
  • Patent number: 6422791
    Abstract: An attachment extends between an outer sleeve and an inner riser pipe where the pipe penetrates the keel of a platform. In one version, the attachment is a conically-shaped with a small diameter ring that engages the riser pipe and a large diameter ring that engages the outer sleeve. This attachment has elements that are very flexible in bending but relatively stiff and strong in axial load. Other versions include flat rings where lateral load is taken directly into tension and compression in the beams, allowing for relatively high lateral load transfer. Both the conically-shaped attachment and the flat ring have a number of variations that provide low bending stiffness but high axial stiffness of the elements. Depending on whether resistance to axial loads, lateral loads, or resistance to combination of both loads is desired, the attachment and the flat ring may be used alone or in combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: ABB Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph William Pallini, Jr., Kim Hoang Phan, Jerry Keith Rhodes, Chii Ren Lin, Rickie Gene Wester, Rockford D. Lyle
  • Patent number: 6402203
    Abstract: An expansion joint for high temperature air or other gaseous flows, of the type in which two duct ends are separated by a gap, that is bridged by a flexible fabric expansion joint cover. The flexible fabric expansion joint cover is attached to the duct ends, using two outwardly extending frame members. Each frame member incorporates one or more convolutions, that are provided to accommodate thermally inducted stresses and strains, imposed by the thermal gradient through the frame members, from positions proximate the duct ends, to outwardly disposed locations where the frame members are attached to opposing ends of the fabric cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Senior Investments AG
    Inventors: Benny Mathiesen, David F. McGrath, Michael Wayne Pollock
  • Patent number: 6059323
    Abstract: An expansion coupling, for connecting a first conduit to a second conduit, has a housing that is open at opposite ends thereof. The conduits and at least one end of the housing have sealing means that comprise an interior sealing ring and an exterior sealing ring that has a larger external and internal diameter than the interior sealing ring. The interior sealing ring has a radially inwardly directed sealing surface and the exterior sealing ring has a radially outwardly directed sealing surface. The sealing rings have sealing side surfaces for sealing against adjacent sealing rings and the sealing rings are radially displaceable with respect to each other to accommodate for any misalignments of connected conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Kvaerner Pulping AB
    Inventors: Rolf Ekholm, Ulf Jansson
  • Patent number: 6035671
    Abstract: A drain system is presented for conveying a liquid (e.g., water) exiting an end of a drain line. The drain line may be, for example, mechanically coupled to a drum of a washing machine, and may undergo limited movement during operation of the washing machine. The drain system includes a conduit and a splash plate, and provides mechanical isolation between the moveable drain line and the fixed conduit. The splash plate allows limited relative movement between the drain line and the conduit while providing a substantially splash proof connection between the drain line and the conduit. The drain system is suitable for use within a semiconductor fabrication clean room. The conduit has an axis substantially aligned with an axis of the drain line, and has an end with an opening larger than an outer dimension of the drain line. A lip surrounds the opening in the end of the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert L. Woods
  • Patent number: 5879032
    Abstract: A flexible joint for a culvert includes a pair of annular connecting members, a flexible sealing member fixed to the connecting members, bearing means provided radially inwardly of the flexible sealing member and fixed to the connecting members for supporting the flexible sealing member to prevent inward deformation of the flexible sealing member. The bearing means may consist of bearing bars arranged circumferentially or may consist of a pair of annular support members. The flexible joint further includes cylinders fitted loosely on the bearing bars. The flexible joint may further include an annular joint filling member provided between the connecting members for preventing flowing of secondary lining concrete into space between the connecting members and having a thickness in the radial direction which enables continuous depositing of the concrete from one culvert unit to another culvert unit to be joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Seibu Polymer Kasei Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yoshinori Asanuma
  • Patent number: 5839277
    Abstract: An exhaust device for an internal combustion engine with an exhaust pipe having a two pipe structure arranged such that the outer pipe and the inner pipe touch each other, the inner pipe being divided into first and second inner pipe sections at a location along the length of the inner pipe. The first and second inner pipes are arranged so that their facing ends are separated, in order to absorb shifts caused by thermal expansion of the pipe. The ends of both the outer pipe and the inner pipe are affixed together. The outer pipe may also be divided into first and second outer pipe sections at a location along the length of the outer pipe. The first and second outer pipe sections are joined in a telescopic joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: Suzuki Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Ideta, Hiroyuki Niwa, Makoto Ichihara
  • Patent number: 5794987
    Abstract: A flexible joint for a culvert includes a pair of annular connecting members, a flexible sealing member fixed to the connecting members, bearing means provided radially inwardly of the flexible sealing member and fixed to the connecting members for supporting the flexible sealing member to prevent inward deformation of the flexible sealing member. The bearing means may consist of bearing bars arranged circumferentially or may consist of a pair of annular support members. The flexible joint further includes cylinders fitted loosely on the bearing bars. The flexible joint may further include an annular joint filling member provided between the connecting members for preventing flowing of secondary lining concrete into space between the connecting members and having a thickness in the radial direction which enables continuous depositing of the concrete from one culvert unit to another culvert unit to be joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Seibu Polymer Kasei Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yoshinori Asanuma
  • Patent number: 5704657
    Abstract: A flexible joint for a culvert includes a pair of annular connecting members, a flexible sealing member fixed to the connecting members, bearing means provided radially inwardly of the flexible sealing member and fixed to the connecting members for supporting the flexible sealing member to prevent inward deformation of the flexible sealing member. The bearing means may consist of bearing bars arranged circumferentially or may consist of a pair of annular support members. The flexible joint further includes cylinders fitted loosely on the bearing bars. The flexible joint may further include an annular joint filling member provided between the connecting members for preventing flowing of secondary lining concrete into space between the connecting members and having a thickness in the radial direction which enables continuous depositing of the concrete from one culvert unit to another culvert unit to be joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Assignee: Seibu Polymer Kasei Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yoshinori Asanuma
  • Patent number: 5653474
    Abstract: A high temperature rectangular exhaust duct expansion joint structure for securement to a high temperature gas stream and particularly, but not exclusively, a turbine engine exhaust duct. The support flange structure incorporated in the duct has a connecting flange which defines opposed side walls of the rectangular support flange structure. A T-shape radial web is connected to an outer surface of the connecting flange. The radial web has a vertical wall component and a transverse end component extending beyond opposed sides of the vertical wall component and is connectable to a flexible membrane of the joint structure. The support flange has reinforced corner sections wherein the connecting flange and the vertical wall component of the T-shape radial web are of increased thickness to reduce thermal stress in the corner sections and to effectively redistribute the stress in the support flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Assignee: Michel D. Ninacs
    Inventors: Michel D. Ninacs, Rodney P. Bell
  • Patent number: 5354104
    Abstract: A flexible coupling for pipework comprises a rigid sleeve of circular section engaged coaxially around the ends of pipes to be coupled together and connected to each of said ends in sealed manner by means of respective annular gaskets of flexible and resilient material received coaxially in each of the annular gaps between the ends of the pipe and the ends of the sleeve. The sleeve is made up of an assembly of three rigid tubes in alignment along the same longitudinal axis and assembled together in sealed manner by connection means comprising annular gaskets analogous to the above-mentioned annular gaskets and by two sets of laminated blocks which hold the tubes rigidly in alignment on the longitudinal axis, but which allow limited amplitude mutual displacements thereof with resilient return along the axis and around the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Techlam
    Inventors: Rene Senes, Jean Lebrun
  • Patent number: 5305903
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device in fuel tanks, preferably for vehicles, said tanks being provided with a mouth socket to which a filler tube is connected so as to have its one end portion projecting into the tank. Between the mouth socket and the filler tube a seal is provided, the latter being formed with a portion grippingly enclosing the mouth edge of the socket and defining, together with the filler tube, an intermediate space allowing oscillation of the filler tube relatively to the socket. A washer is pressed against the filler tube and is formed with a bent-over portion grippingly engaging said portion of the seal. A reinforcement sleeve is positioned inside the filler tube and presses against the inner face of the filler tube. A clamp-joint sleeve is fitted around the mouth socket, enclosing portion of the seal and the washer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Assignee: AB Volvo
    Inventor: Bo Harde
  • Patent number: 5232252
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an accommodating sealing sleeve which allows for the off-axis connection of two conduits. The accommodating sealing sleeve is generally comprised of an annular housing and various internal components. The internal components include an adaptive seal, an adaptive seal retainer, a bushing and a garter spring. A conduit is inserted through the housing, adaptive seal retainer and adaptive seal to become locked in. The adaptive seal is flexible to accommodate the off-axis entry of the conduit into the accommodating sealing sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Assignee: Proprietary Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald D. Bartholomew
  • Patent number: 5224739
    Abstract: A connecting device connects a tailpipe to an exhaust pipe of an internal combustion engine for a vehicle. The tailpipe includes a smaller diameter section and a larger diameter section, and the free end of the exhaust pipe is received by the larger diameter section of the tailpipe. An annular space separates the larger diameter section of the tailpipe and the free end of the exhaust pipe. Screw threads are formed on the free end of the exhaust pipe. A connecting spring is configured as a conical helical spring, the larger diameter end of which is fixed to the tailpipe. The other end of the spring has coils configured as screw threads which screwed onto the screw threads which are formed on the free end of the exhaust pipe. The spring is relatively soft in a direction parallel to an axis of the tailpipe, and is relatively stiff in a direction transverse to an axis of the tailpipe. The spring absorbs vibrations of the engine and centers the pipes with respect to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Udo Sauter
  • Patent number: 5209503
    Abstract: The seal is provided at a joint between two ducts, which are traversed by hot gases. It has a seat for the seal and an elastic compensator strip, which spans the gap between the two ducts. A woven wire cloth is provided under the compensator strip. A metal foil is provided over the woven wire cloth and a packing of ceramic fibers is provided over the metal foil. A seat member for the seal is joined to each of the two ducts. Each seat member is provided with a row of pointed rods of metal, which extend through the woven wire cloth, the metal foil and the packing of ceramic fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1993
    Assignee: Metallgesellschaft Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Jurgen Heibel, Peter Brinkmann, Peter Schmaing
  • Patent number: 5139287
    Abstract: Coupling unit for releasably connecting fluid lines in or on two parts whose relative position is variable. In order to ensure reliable centering of the ends of the fluid lines to be connected while avoiding excessively high shear stresses, a distance plate (1) is arranged between the parts (M and W) containing the fluid lines (L and K, respectively) to be connected. The distance plate (1) is fastened in an axially mobile manner to the first part (M) by means of at least one guide rod (F) fastened to the latter and whose distance from the other part can be varied by means of at least one piston rod (S) arranged in the guide rod (F). A number of bushings (3) equal to the number of line connections to be made are housed in axial recesses (2) in the distance plate (1). The bushings (3) are held in their respective recesses (2) with axial and radial play, are connected to one part (M) by a mobile flexible tubular line (L) and are associated with the other part (W) by a fixed connecting sleeve (A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1992
    Assignee: Applied Power Inc.
    Inventor: Jaap J. Broere
  • Patent number: 5011194
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pipe fitting device which connects pipes that flow a high temperature fluid such as engine exhaust gas. The device includes a first cylindrical block, a second cylindrical block and a follower ring disposed between a ring portion of the first cylindrical block and an edge member of an opening of a second cylindrical block. A spring pushes the follower ring to the second cylindrical block side. Flexible connection sleeves connect the flanges of the first cylindrical block and the second cylindrical block and through holes are drilled into the first and second cylindrical blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1991
    Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Shigemitsu Nitta
  • Patent number: 4967795
    Abstract: A fluid coupling device has a male section (20) and a female section (21). Each of the sections has two rotatable ball valve elements (30,31). A docking member (23,24) is mounted on each section to accomodate a misalignment of the flow passageways when the sections are brought together. When the sections are brought together, the ball valves automatically rotate sequentially from flow-preventing positions to flow-permitting positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1990
    Assignee: Moog Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph M. Cardin, Raoul Fremy, Patrick K. Griffin
  • Patent number: 4962952
    Abstract: A tube has a deflection section to allow it to align between two bores which are substantially coaxial. The tube has an inner wall, an outer wall, a first end and second end. The first end of the tube rigidly connects to the first member. The second end of the tube slidingly extends into the bore of the second member. The deflecting section has circumferential inner and outer grooves. These grooves extend in from the inner and outer walls of the tube. Each of the grooves has an axial thickness that is much less than the distance between the grooves. The axial thickness is also less than the radial dimension between the base of each groove and the adjacent wall of the tube. This provides substantial rigidity to the deflecitng section, yet allows slight deflection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1990
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph W. Pallini, Jr., Norman Brammer, Glenn M. Wald
  • Patent number: 4863199
    Abstract: The inner surface of the open end of a socket for a pipe is formed with a taper portion and a lock ring is received on the inner periphery of the taper portion. The outer peripheral portion of the socket corresponding to the taper portion is tapered in the same direction so that the wall thickness of the socket at the taper portion has a suitable value. When a pull-out force acts on a spigot inserted in the socket, the wedge action of the taper portion presses the lock ring against the spigot, whereby the separation is prevented. If an excessive pull-out force acts thereon, the portion of the socket which has the suitable thickness is deformed for radial expansion so as to allow the pull-out of the lock ring. Thereby, the pipe joint and the pipe body are prevented from being broken by the excessive force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1989
    Assignee: Kubota, Ltd.
    Inventors: Sadamune Hojo, Toshiyuki Iwamoto, Noriyuki Arakawa, Terutaka Narita
  • Patent number: 4848803
    Abstract: Fabric expansion joints suitable for use in the exhaust systems of gas turbines are of three types definable with reference to whether a frame is to be connected to a duct section which is externally insulated or one which is internally insulated. In joints where only the outlet frame or where both the inlet and outlet frames are to be connected to internally insulated sections, the flanges of the liners are connected to their frames in a manner preventing movement of the liners relative to the axis of the flow path through the joint but permitting thermal flange growth relative to the frames. Where a frame is to be connected to an externally insulated duct, the frame includes structure spaced from the flange of the liner which defines therewith an inwardly opening, thermal distribution channel. In each type, the free ends of the liners overlap in a spaced apart relationship and are interconnected in a manner permitting relative lengthwise movement between them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1989
    Assignee: Bachmann Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Lothar Bachmann
  • Patent number: 4750861
    Abstract: A support system useful to interconnect interstage components in a centrifugal compressor. The system allows controlled balancing of pressure induced forces while accommodating thermal expansion and contraction. In one preferred form a support ring is mounted about a scroll volute but supported through tie rods from a conduit concentrically aligned with the volute. A second support ring is mounted about the conduit, facing but spaced from the first ring, and supported from the volute. The support rings are respectively sealed to the volute and conduit through O-rings which allow sliding axial motion. A grooved peripheral pipe coupling seals the space between the support rings. The surface area of the support rings can be selectively chosen to direct and control pressure forces within the compressor system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1988
    Assignee: Cooper Industries
    Inventor: Robert L. Baker
  • Patent number: 4712938
    Abstract: An expansion seal assembly in which a corrugated plate extends between two members that are subjected to differential thermal expansion and contraction. An expansion joint connects the upper and lower edges of the corrugated plate with the two members respectively to accommodate differential thermal expansion and contraction between two members in an axial direction. The expansion joint acts as hinges to accommodate the lateral movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1987
    Assignee: Foster Wheeler Energy Corporation
    Inventors: Venkatraman Seshamani, Dudley P. Money
  • Patent number: 4696618
    Abstract: The outlet 38 of a turbine housing 18 may be sealed to a port 46 while at the same time mounting a turbine 10 and associated transmission 36 for vibration and shock isolation by locating elastomeric seal and turbine mounts 50, 52 on opposed walls 28 and 30 of the turbine housing 18 defining the outlet 38.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1987
    Assignee: Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffery Fairchild, Steven A. Heitz, John Symington
  • Patent number: 4660334
    Abstract: An underground blast shelter for providing short and long term protection against nuclear detonations for its occupants. The shelter consists of a cell to house the occupants and a command station interfacing with the ground surface. The cell and command station are vertically and horizontally spatially separated with vertical and horizontal shafts providing communication between the two. Provision is made to give protection to the occupants from blasts, overpressure, surface fires, radiation, chemical and biological warfare agents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1987
    Inventor: Walton W. McCarthy
  • Patent number: 4597413
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus having a male member and a female member. The male member includes a flow passage having radially extending ports and a valve means. The female member includes a body member having an interior surface and a flow passage, a socket member having an exterior surface and a flow passage, and, an insert member having a first complementary surface and a second complementary surface. The valve means of said male member allows communication between said radially extending ports and said flow passage of said socket member. The interior surface of said body member is engaged in sliding contact with said first complementary surface of said insert member thus permitting universal movement of said insert member relative to said body member. The exterior surface of said socket member is engaged in sliding contact with the second complementary surface of said insert member thus permitting radial movement of said socket member relative to said insert member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1986
    Assignee: Snap-Tite, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard A. Buseth
  • Patent number: 4489472
    Abstract: This invention concerns the connection and disconnection of well-pipes in an articulated structure level with the articulation.The device comprises a length of flexible pipe, at one end of which is an adapter containing a sealing device, a positioning device and a locking device, and at the other end of which is another adapter containing a sealing device and a locking device, these sealing, positioning and locking devices being designed to fit into upper and lower receptacles, the upper receptacle consisting of the lower end of the tubing pipe, and the lower receptacle consisting of the upper end of the seabed pipe, the whole connection-disconnection device being able to pass through the upper receptacle.This connection-disconnection device is specially designed for use in articulated hydrocarbon-production installations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 25, 1984
    Assignee: Societe Nationale ELF Aquitaine
    Inventors: Philippe Cabrit, Jean Mourlevat, Jacques de Saint-Palais
  • Patent number: 4387903
    Abstract: A seal assembly for an annular joint, comprising an outer ring, an inner g and an intervening membrane. The entire assembly is screwed into place as a one-step operation. Threads on the rings have the same pitch to preclude or minimize excessive axial advancement of one ring relative to the other ring during the seal installation operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1981
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1983
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Roger R. Smith
  • Patent number: 4299414
    Abstract: An expansion joint for ducts for high temperature gases has upstream and downstream members to be secured to spaced apart ends of corresponding duct sections. Each member has an outer flange, the outer flanges disposed towards each other and having a fabric cover secured thereto. The upstream member has an inner flange disposed towards the downstream member. A floating seal has right angular portions of which one overlaps the outer surface of the inner flange and the other overlaps the downstream member. Clips back each portion of the floating seal to hold them to provide a maximum clearance between the boundaries thereof. Resilient seals carried by the floating seal slidably engage the overlapped boundaries of the clearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1981
    Inventor: Lothar Bachmann
  • Patent number: 4291905
    Abstract: A duct seal including a supporting assembly adapted to support a duct extending through an opening in a partition and a mounting assembly mountable by the partition for guiding and retaining the supporting assembly. The seal maintains a seal against overpressure while permitting the duct to shift bi-directionally lengthwise and about its axis rotatively and orbitally. The seal is particularly useful as an aircraft firewall duct seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1978
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1981
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Jesse C. E. Schrock
  • Patent number: 4184689
    Abstract: A seal structure between a circumferentially extending array of stator vanes and an outer case is disclosed. Various construction details that allow the seal structure to accommodate differences in axial and radial growth between the outer case and the vane array are developed. A continuous ring disposed between the vane array and the outer case cooperates with a first seal member to block leakage of working medium between the ring and the vane array. The continuous ring cooperates with a second seal member to block leakage of the working medium between the ring and the outer case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1978
    Date of Patent: January 22, 1980
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Robert F. Brodell, Robert A. Johnson, Trent H. Holmes