Resilient Ring Patents (Class 285/321)
  • Patent number: 9528557
    Abstract: A clutch housing for an automatic transmission includes an aluminum hub and a drum portion which is laser or friction welded to the hub. Due to the different strength requirements of the hub and drum, the hub is fabricated of 6082-T6 aluminum or a material of similar strength and malleability and is forged or die cast. The hub includes male splines or gear teeth disposed on its periphery. The cylindrical drum is fabricated of 7075-T6 aluminum or a material of similar or greater strength and similar malleability and is roller died or stamped and includes female splines or gear teeth on its inner surface as well as a plurality of radially oriented lubrication openings or slots which facilitate flow of lubricating fluid from the interior to the exterior of the cylindrical drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, LLC
    Inventors: Scott William Heitzenrater, Huaxin Li
  • Patent number: 9493951
    Abstract: An embodiment is directed to a duct coupler for joining two segments of conduit. The duct coupler includes a coupler body. The coupler body is generally tubular and has an inner diameter generally corresponding to the outer diameter of a section of conduit measured at an annular locking rib positioned on the section of conduit. The duct coupler further includes one or more protrusions formed on the interior surface of the coupler body. Each protrusion is generally wedge shaped. The one or more protrusions are positioned to engage with at least one annular locking rib to retain the section of conduit within the coupler body. The duct coupler further includes a body gasket. The body gasket is generally tubular and positioned on the interior surface of the coupler body. The body gasket is positioned to form a seal between the inner wall of the coupler body and the outer wall of the section of conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Inventor: Felix Sorkin
  • Patent number: 9438089
    Abstract: Systems and methods for preventing rotation of rotor bearings in electric motors which enable retrofitting of conventionally designed bearings to use spring-loaded keys instead of elastomeric T-rings to prevent rotation while allowing axial movement of the bearings within a stator bore. An elongated, curved spring arm is positioned in the nesting groove at the outer periphery of the bearing. One end of the spring may be secured to the bearing by positioning an S-shaped bend in the spring arm through a hole in the floor of the nesting groove. A key at the opposite end of the spring arm is urged radially outward by the spring arm. The key may be positioned in a slot in the outer portion of the bearing, and the spring arm may be retained in the groove by a retaining pin installed in the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Randal Perisho, John M. Knapp, Andrew J. Brasher, Johney W. Stephens, Sean A. Cain
  • Patent number: 9366093
    Abstract: A two part coupling connector for pipe having male and female components that sealably engage with an extendable multi-link spring member that is locked into a recessed slot in the female component by a rotational key. The male and female components are aligned with a mating extension and receiving groove. The parts are disengaged by insertion of a tool into circumferential apertures about the female component that apply pressure inward to move the extendable spring away from the recessed slot. The connector may also have ports for communication and control lines that are engaged to and about the coupling connector to facilitate transmission of electrical signals and flanges to support such lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: The Subsea Company
    Inventor: Barry J McMiles
  • Patent number: 9353897
    Abstract: A bayonet fastening which can be used to connect two pipeline components, in particular connection elements. The pipeline components which are to be connected respectively comprise a cylindrical receiving part (1) and the second pipeline component comprises an insertion part (2) which can be introduced into the receiving part. A clamping ring (3) is arranged on the outer diameter of the insertion part and the receiving part can be pushed onto said clamping ring. The bayonet fastening can be locked by rotating the receiving part and the insertion part in relation to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Georg Fischer JRG AG
    Inventor: Markus Breyer
  • Patent number: 9182061
    Abstract: A pipe joint comprising a pressing nut into which a flexible pipe is inserted, a joint body into which the pressing nut is partially inserted, a resilient means unlocked when pushed by a tip end of the flexible pipe, a sealing member, a retainer engaging the flexible pipe, and an engaging mechanism keeping the pressing nut at a predetermined position in the joint body; the engaging mechanism comprising a stop ring, an annular groove formed on an outer surface of the pressing nut for receiving the stop ring, pluralities of engaging grooves formed on an inner surface of the joint body for receiving the stop ring and communicating with each other; the stop ring engaging both of the annular groove and the first engaging groove before the connection of the flexible pipe is completed; and when the flexible pipe is pulled after completing the connection, the stop ring moving from the first engaging groove to the second engaging groove to draw the pressing nut from the joint body, so that the normal connection of the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Assignees: HITACHI METALS, LTD., TOKYO GAS CO., LTD., SANKOH CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tamaki Hamaguchi, Tomoyuki Minami, Fumitaka Satoh, Takaaki Inotani, Fumikazu Ishibe, Satoru Araki, Youichi Uchiumi, Takuji Okiayu, Akihiro Hattori
  • Patent number: 9060814
    Abstract: The bottom loading fastening system that consists of the polyaxial ball and socket joint used in conjunction with a bone screw having threads on one end for use in anchoring to the spine and a spherical connector on the other end operating as a pivot point about which a connecting assembly moves in a polyaxial fashion. A substantially U-shaped connecting assembly has a lower receptacle having a retainer ring within a retaining ring groove for use in securing the spherical connector to the connecting assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: Ortho Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Robert L. Doubler, John E. Hammill, Sr.
  • Patent number: 9016729
    Abstract: In a quick connection device for piping installed with a checker (40), a connector housing (20) of a quick connector (10) is formed with opening portions (74) for inserting resilient legs (58) therein through the opening portions (74) in a direction perpendicular to an axis from leading ends of the resilient legs, and inserted portions of the resilient legs (58) are held inside the connector housing (20). The resilient legs (58) are resiliently deformed in an axially inward direction by an annular projecting portion on an outer peripheral surface of a mating pipe at insertion of the mating pipe, to unlatch latching pawls (64) of the resilient legs (58) from corresponding latch portions of the connector housing (20), whereby the checker (40) is allowed to be removed out of the connector housing (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignees: Sumitomo Riko Company Limited, A. Ryamond et CIE-SCS
    Inventors: Yoshimitsu Ishida, Yasuki Takenaka
  • Patent number: 8979134
    Abstract: A joint unit is provided, including a main body, a bush, which is fastened to the main body and forms with the main body a receiving space for a connecting piece, and a separately formed retaining unit arranged in a radially inwardly open circumferential groove in the bush. The radially inwardly open circumferential groove in the bush is open towards an axial end face of the bush in at least two circumferential portions. A connection assembly is further provided, including a joint unit and a connecting piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Frankische Industrial Pipes GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Sören Schröter, Mario Willner
  • Patent number: 8974934
    Abstract: A battery module is provided. The battery module includes a battery cell and a heat exchanger disposed adjacent to the battery cell. The battery module further includes a cooling manifold having a tubular wall, a first fluid port, and a ring shaped member. The tubular wall defines an interior region and having first and second end portions. The first fluid port extends outwardly from an outer surface of the tubular wall and fluidly communicates with the interior region of the tubular wall. The ring shaped member is disposed on an outer surface of the first fluid port a predetermined distance from the outer surface of the tubular wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: LG Chem, Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert Merriman, Thomas J. Gadawski, Josh Payne
  • Publication number: 20140327240
    Abstract: A retaining clip for the detachable locking of a plug-in connection arrangement for pressure pipes, male connector of a plug-in connection for pressure pipes with such a retaining clip, as well as a plug-in connection arrangement for pressure pipes with a male connector and a female connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: EATON INDUSTRIAL IP GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Joerg Altenrath
  • Publication number: 20140319824
    Abstract: A connection end for a pipe joint (2) having a wall defining a receiving recess (8) for receiving an end of a pipe length (4); a groove (12) formed to a depth in an internal surface of the wall of the receiving recess (8);a channel (34) communicating between the groove and an external surface of the connection end; the channel (34) and groove (12) being configured to receive a flexible elongate connector (30) having an axial cross-section with an aspect ratio of greater than 1, and seatable within the groove via the channel, the connector having a width greater than the depth of the groove so that when seated within the groove the connector extends into the receiving recess; and wherein the profiles of said groove and said channel are configured such that when such a connector is seated within the groove, the major axis of the axial cross-section of said connector may be aligned to be neither per pendicular nor parallel to the axis of the conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: ACORN CAPITAL HOLDINGS LIMITED
    Inventor: John Manning
  • Patent number: 8870236
    Abstract: Methods of joining pipe section and joined pipe assemblies are described. The pipe sections, e.g., pipes and couplers, are joined by a mechanical interference bond formed using a shape memory polymer key. The key can be inserted into a first keyway of one pipe section, the pipes fitted to align first keyway with a second keyway of the second pipe section, and the shape memory polymer activated to at least partially fill both keyways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Joseph D. Rule, Michael A. Kropp, Kevin M. Lewandowski
  • Publication number: 20140311452
    Abstract: A connecting element for fuel injection systems is used for connecting a fuel injector to a fuel-carrying component, in particular a fuel distributor rail. A base body having a receiving space is provided for this purpose. The base body has an opening, via which a fuel fitting of the fuel injector is insertable into the receiving space of the base body. Furthermore, a first annular element is provided in the receiving space, which in the installed state on the one hand interacts with the fuel fitting inserted into the receiving space and on the other hand interacts with the base body. Furthermore, a second annular element is provided in the receiving space of the base body, the first annular element and the second annular element abutting against an outside of the fuel fitting in the installed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Michael FISCHER, Michael KNORPP, Martin RIEMER, Hans-Georg HORST, Andreas GLASER, Philipp ROGLER, Jan HERRMANN, Andreas REHWALD, Michael MAYER, Volker SCHEEF, Wilhelm REINHARDT
  • Publication number: 20140217724
    Abstract: Various novel connectors are provided. In one embodiment, the connector includes a collar configured to receive first and second components. In this embodiment, the connector may also include a load ring configured to be received in a groove of the second component and to move into and out of engagement with the collar when the second component is received by the collar. The connector of this illustrative embodiment may also include a cotter configured for installation to the second component and to inhibit disengagement of the load ring from the collar. In some embodiments, engagement of the load ring and the collar effects securing of the first and second components to one another. Other devices, systems, and methods related to connectors are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Kirk P. Guidry, Dennis P. Nguyen, Joseph R. Wilhelmi, Terry L. Shinn
  • Patent number: 8783730
    Abstract: A flange assembly for a watertight coupling of smooth surface pipe includes a triple metal ring provided for anchoring and retention and having three unitary rings which are identical and form substantially an entirety of a circumference and a sheet on which the unitary rings are solidly joined and which constitutes a base of the triple ring. Each of the unitary rings is provided throughout an entirety of its inner edge with folds forming in their outer most part a succession of vertices. The unitary rings are configured to rest on a smooth outer surface of pipes and the vertices are driven into the smooth outer surface to prevent an axial displacement allowing an application of the triple ring, and to distribute a penetrating action so as to decrease a possibility of tearing and damage of the smooth outer surface of the pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventors: Elisabet Patricia Pires Cabado, Barbara Ines Pires Cabado
  • Publication number: 20140191502
    Abstract: A quick connect coupling includes a male coupling and a female coupling. A stop may be associated with the male coupling and configured to prevent the male coupling from being inserted into a port of the female coupling beyond a predetermined depth. The stop may be axially slidable between a first position and a second position. The first position may be located between a leading edge of the male coupling and the second position. The stop may be biased towards the first position so that the stop substantially resets to the first position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: THE GATES CORPORATION
    Inventor: Donald R. Gilbreath
  • Patent number: 8764067
    Abstract: A connection device may include an insertion section having an annular outer groove. A housing may be configured to receive the insertion section. A blocking element may be configured to lock the insertion section in the housing, wherein the blocking element may engage the annular outer groove and an annular inner groove formed in the housing. The blocking element may also be configured to be withdrawn through a housing opening substantially tangentially to the grooves and to be pre-fitted in the inner groove and in a pre-fitted state. The blocking element may engage the outer groove and be fixed on the housing securing it against a displacement in a peripheral direction. A securing device may be arranged on an exterior of the housing for securing of the blocking element against displacement at least in the withdrawal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Mahle International GmbH
    Inventors: Gabriel Bundy, Thomas Pröttel, Andreas Schieszl
  • Patent number: 8746751
    Abstract: A threaded adapter is part of a quick-to-connect and quick-to-disconnect flexible hose coupling system. The adapter may provide a low-profile securement and seal between the port and the stem portion of the quick connect coupling. The adapter in combination with the fluid valve block orifice provides a seal that is further down in the valve block than the location of seals provided by other fluid couplings. Without relying on wrenching flats, the adapter also provides effective access to the hoses for repair and therefore is a cost saving device. The adapter may be a safe, reliable, easy to connect and disconnect component in a hydraulic system and is adaptable to accommodate any coupling including those in high and low pressure fluid and other systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: The Gates Corporation
    Inventors: Donald R. Gilbreath, Jonathan Clark Swift
  • Patent number: 8746750
    Abstract: A clip for a quick connect hose coupling that possesses an improved combination of characteristics leading to a quick connect coupling that can be connected reliably, consistently, and with reduced damage to the coupling and low insertion force. The clip provides reduced friction against the fitting and reduces insertion force and damage. The clip has two end portions that are designed to be deflected relative to each other when the stem is inserted into the port. The clip further has a periphery with two end portions, each curved at or beyond the radius of maximum installation deflection such that they will not scrape the installation ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: The Gates Corporation
    Inventor: Donald R. Gilbreath
  • Patent number: 8746748
    Abstract: A coupling system includes two base bodies, each having an aperture for a fluid, an interior predefined circumferential depression and a locking surface. An adapter piece including an aperture for the fluid has two ends and at least two predefined circumferential depressions, which run at least partially along a circumference of the respective ends, wherein the first base body is associated with the first end of the adapter piece and the second base body is associated with the second end of the adapter piece, wherein in a state in which they are pushed inside each other the circumferential depression associated with the respective end of the adapter piece and the interior circumferential depression of the respective base body are located opposite of each other and form a receiving space. In addition, latching elements are provided to prevent the respective latching element from accidentally sliding out of the associated receiving space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Uponor Innovation Ab
    Inventors: Thomas Kern-Emmerich, Jorg Keller, Rudolf Geier
  • Patent number: 8740256
    Abstract: A quick connector assembly that provides fluid communication between a first conduit and a second conduit. The quick connector assembly includes a housing and a retainer. The housing has a first end that connects with the first conduit, has a second end that connects with the second conduit, and has a fluid passage that extends between the first and second ends. The retainer is carried by the housing and has a portion located in the fluid passage of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Norma U.S. Holding LLC
    Inventors: Douglas Milton Fansler, Michael Richard Bucher
  • Publication number: 20140145431
    Abstract: A mechanical coupling between a straight pipe end and a socket fitting comprises a seal ring and a locking ring disposed within the interior of the socket. The locking ring has a generally frusto-conical shape with a plurality of corrugations extending circumferentially thereabout, the corrugations presenting inner edge portions engaging the outer annular surface of the pipe end and outer edge portions engaging the interior annular surface of the socket for opposing withdrawal of the pipe end axially outwardly from the socket. In an advantageous embodiment, the locking ring is assembled with a support disk to optimally orient the locking ring with respect to the fitting and the pipe end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: CHARLOTTE PIPE AND FOUNDRY COMPANY
    Inventor: Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company
  • Publication number: 20140131999
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to a claw quick disconnect intercom fitting. The intercom fitting has a locking fit that features two independent locking systems that are generally operable together, without tools and with one hand. A claw ring and a clutch ring are configured to be assembled together and to move together, although they separately activate a claw lock and a clutch lock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: AERAZUR S. A.
    Inventors: Amine Sannadi, Nicolas Picco
  • Patent number: 8720574
    Abstract: A subsea connector that includes a connector capable of selectively connecting to a spool body to form a connector assembly. The subsea connector may include an adapter ring that is capable of connecting the spool body to the connector. The connector assembly may be lowered onto a wellhead member and locked into place by a movable piston and split lock ring. While the connector assembly is in the unlocked state, the adapter ring may be rotated moving the connector up or down with respect to the spool body, which lands on the wellhead member. The movement of the connector may be used to vary the alignment of the connector locking means with respect to the locking profile of the wellhead member. This change in position may be used to modify the preload force applied to the connector when locked onto the wellhead member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Aker Solutions Inc.
    Inventors: Glen H. Cuiper, Paulo C. S. Paulo
  • Patent number: 8696039
    Abstract: Various novel connectors are provided. In one embodiment, the connector includes a collar configured to receive first and second components. In this embodiment, the connector may also include a load ring configured to be received in a groove of the second component and to move into and out of engagement with the collar when the second component is received by the collar. The connector of this illustrative embodiment may also include a cotter configured for installation to the second component and to inhibit disengagement of the load ring from the collar. In some embodiments, engagement of the load ring and the collar effects securing of the first and second components to one another. Other devices, systems, and methods related to connectors are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Kirk P. Guidry, Dennis P. Nguyen, Joseph R. Wilhelmi, Terry L. Shinn
  • Patent number: 8657343
    Abstract: A connector assembly including a connector body having a coupling end and sealing means. A collet couples to the connector body and has resilient fingers. An adjustment ring has a stop and defines guide tracks. A collar has protrusions coupled in the guide tracks. A ferrule is slidingly housed within the collar and adjustment ring. A locking split ring clips onto the adjustment ring to limit travel of the collar. In a locked position, the locking split ring is installed and a pipe, inserted into the connector body is retained in place by the resilient radially inward fingers of the collet and sealed by the sealing means. In the released position, the collar has been moved to force the ferrule into the collet to splay the resilient fingers such that the pipe is freely insertable and removeable from the connector assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Watts Water Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Rodenberg, Paul J. Lake
  • Publication number: 20140021717
    Abstract: A connector assembly for establishing fluid communication between a copper pipe and a cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) tube is provided. The connector assembly additionally includes a retainer including a plurality of teeth. In operation, the copper tube is inserted into a female receiving portion of the housing and a fluid-tight seal is established therebetween. Then, a PEX expansion ring is expanded radially outwardly and inserted over the retainer and contracted to urge the teeth against the copper pipe, thereby retaining the copper pipe inside of the housing. Next, an end of the PEX tube and another expansion ring are expanded radially outwardly and inserted over the male end form of the housing. This PEX expansion ring then contracts to establish a fluid-tight seal between the PEX tube and the male end form of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventors: Paul Burke, Mitchell Wayne Hunt
  • Patent number: 8613473
    Abstract: A plug-in connection for hydraulic lines and machines, in particular for use on motor vehicles, has a receiving part and a complementary associated plug-in part which is sealed off from the receiving part in the final assembled position. When the plug-in part is inserted into the receiving part, a spring-elastic securing element, which is fitted captively and in a prestressed manner as a spring force storage device on the receiving part in a pre-assembly position, is displaced by the plug-in part relative to the receiving part in such a way that, when the final assembled position is reached, its stored spring force is released by the joining movement itself and the securing element latches in a force-fitting manner between bearing surfaces of the receiving part and of the plug-in part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: FTE automotive GmbH
    Inventor: Norbert Spielmann
  • Patent number: 8596687
    Abstract: A fitting for a pipe, has a base body and a connecting body, each having a passage for a fluid. Both bodies include contact surfaces that can be slid into each other, including at least one pair of opposing recesses forming a receiving chamber. The fitting has a flexible, substantially incompressible locking element that can be inserted into the receiving chamber for fixing the two bodies together. At least one of the two bodies includes an access chamber extending between an outer surface of the associated body and the receiving chamber. The access chamber connects to and is an extension of the receiving chamber. The locking element includes a stop protrusion at one of its opposite ends for stopping the locking element externally at least one of the two bodies in order to prevent the locking element from unintentionally slipping out of the receiving chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Uponor Innovation AB
    Inventors: Thomas Kern-Emmerich, Rudolf Geier, Bernd Kaufmann, Markus Friedrichs
  • Patent number: 8567826
    Abstract: An attachment system, for attaching a gas nozzle on a gas nozzle mount arranged on a welding torch, allows detachable attachment of the gas nozzle. To create such an attachment one part of the gas nozzle mount is designed to be eccentric and for mounting a fixing element. Via an additional part of the gas nozzle mount and via at least one part of a penstock of the welding torch, a guide is formed for the gas nozzle and the gas nozzle can be secured via a rotational movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Fronius International GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Bichler, Stefan Ehrenbrandner, Johannes Fuerlinger, Armin Gaspar
  • Patent number: 8561274
    Abstract: A connector includes a housing having a bore with a housing groove disposed on an inside surface of the bore with a groove establishing a release angle between a housing groove bottom and a bore inside surface. A retainer defines a spring cavity between a retainer and the release angle and a circular radial canted coil spring is disposed in the spring cavity. A pin having a tapered end and a body diameter sized for sliding engagement with the bore is provided which includes a circumferential groove in the pin body for receiving the coil spring upon insertion of the pin into the bore. A circumferential groove includes a load angle for rotating the coil spring in an orientation in which the major spring axis is parallel to the release angle upon initial withdrawal of the pin from the bore. The coil is further compressed along the spring minor axis and expands radially upon continued withdrawal of the pin from the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Bal Seal Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter J. Balsells
  • Patent number: 8528585
    Abstract: A quick-change wear sleeve for a high pressure fluid conduit is retained in a fluid passage of the fluid conduit by a resilient retainer ring received in complementary grooves in an outer surface of the quick-change wear sleeve and an inner surface of the fluid passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Oil States Energy Services, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Bob McGuire
  • Patent number: 8485228
    Abstract: A plug-in part in the form of a piece of tubing and having a sealing portion, the sealing portion comprising a sealing element enclosing the piece of tubing in a circumferential direction, and a locking portion with at least one undercut. The plug-in part is adapted to be plugged into the receptacle of a coupling part of the plug connector arrangement in order to produce a fluid-tight connection. At least one locking element of the coupling part engages behind the plug-in part in the region of the undercut. In order to develop the plug-in part so as to reduce the risk of the sealing element being adversely affected, the undercut is formed by a protrusion which projects from the outside of the piece of tubing and extends circumferentially merely over a sub-region of the piece of tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Alfred Kaercher GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Juergen Binder, Joerg Schmid
  • Patent number: 8474879
    Abstract: A threadless connection for coupling segments of pipe longitudinally end to end includes a pin end having a groove for receiving therein a locking ring. A box end has a groove for receiving the locking ring therein when the pin end is inserted into the box end. The locking ring has an uncompressed diameter selected to exert lateral force on the groove in the box end when assembled to the pin end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Derek F. Herrera
  • Patent number: 8444184
    Abstract: A conduit structure provided with a rotation coupling comprises a first hose part (1) with a first coupling part (4) at an end thereof, and furthermore a second coupling part (5) at an end of a further part (6, 15; 2, 4, 19). The first coupling part can be inserted into the second coupling part and the coupling parts are provided with a separate sealing element (9) as well as with locking means (17, 18), such that the first and the second coupling part are rotatably but non-slidably coupled. The first hose part (1) extends through and some distance beyond the first coupling part (4) and in the coupled condition the sealing element (9) seals the space between the portion of the first hose part that extends beyond the first coupling part and the second coupling part (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Henri Peteri Beheer B.V.
    Inventor: Niels Theodoor Peteri
  • Publication number: 20130093183
    Abstract: Various novel connectors are provided. In one embodiment, the connector includes a collar configured to receive first and second components. In this embodiment, the connector may also include a load ring configured to be received in a groove of the second component and to move into and out of engagement with the collar when the second component is received by the collar. The connector of this illustrative embodiment may also include a cotter configured for installation to the second component and to inhibit disengagement of the load ring from the collar. In some embodiments, engagement of the load ring and the collar effects securing of the first and second components to one another. Other devices, systems, and methods related to connectors are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Cameron International Corporation
  • Patent number: 8375543
    Abstract: A connector includes a housing having a bore with a housing groove disposed on an inside surface of the bore with a groove establishing a release angle between a housing groove bottom and a bore inside surface. A retainer defines a spring cavity between a retainer and the release angle and a circular radial canted coil spring is disposed in the spring cavity. A pin having a tapered end and a body diameter sized for sliding engagement with the bore is provided which includes a circumferential groove in the pin body for receiving the coil spring upon insertion of the pin into the bore. A circumferential groove includes a load angle for rotating the coil spring in an orientation in which the major spring axis is parallel to the release angle upon initial withdrawal of the pin from the bore. The coil is further compressed along the spring minor axis and expands radially upon continued withdrawal of the pin from the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Bal Seal Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter J. Balsells
  • Patent number: 8328242
    Abstract: Various novel connectors are provided. In one embodiment, the connector includes a collar configured to receive first and second components. In this embodiment, the connector may also include a load ring configured to be received in a groove of the second component and to move into and out of engagement with the collar when the second component is received by the collar. The connector of this illustrative embodiment may also include a cotter configured for installation to the second component and to inhibit disengagement of the load ring from the collar. In some embodiments, engagement of the load ring and the collar effects securing of the first and second components to one another. Other devices, systems, and methods related to connectors are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Kirk P. Guidry, Dennis P. Nguyen, Joseph R. Wilhelmi, Terry L. Shinn
  • Publication number: 20120306196
    Abstract: A percussion drilling assembly for drilling a borehole, the assembly including a tubular casing having a central axis defined therethrough and a lower end, a driver sub having an upper end threadingly engaged with the lower end of the tubular casing, and an annular locking member disposed between the tubular easing and the driver sub. The annular locking member is configured to engage the tubular casing and the driver sub, and is configured to prevent separation of the driver sub from the tubular casing. The annular locking member includes a deformable elongate member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Lokesh Bhatia, Kevin Harrington, Justin Scott, Robert H. Slaughter, JR.
  • Patent number: 8302999
    Abstract: A faucet connecting structure contains a body including a chamber having a receiving trench, the receiving trench including an opening; an outlet pipe including a first end to input water and a second end to output water, the first end including a connector inserted into the receiving trench; an engaging member including a peripheral fringe, an inner surface, an outer surface, a first and a second segments, a slot, and the inner and the outer surfaces including at least one first deformable area and at least one second deformable area respectively to generate a radial-direction deformation when being forced in a radial direction so as to act against a radial-direction engaging force resulting from connecting the first engaging member and body together; a retaining means to retain the engaging member and the body together so that the outlet pipe is limited to move and rotate axially relative to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Globe Union Industrial Corp.
    Inventor: Jianhui Xu
  • Patent number: 8297662
    Abstract: A connector includes a housing having a bore with a housing groove having a release angle between a housing groove bottom and a bore inside surface. A retainer defines a spring cavity having a circular radial canted coil spring disposed in the spring cavity. A pin having a tapered end in sliding engagement with the bore and provided with a circumferential groove for receiving the coil spring upon insertion of the pin into the bore. A circumferential groove includes a load angle for rotating the coil spring in an orientation in which the major spring axis is parallel to the release angle upon initial withdrawal of the pin from the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Bal Seal Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter J. Balsells
  • Patent number: 8282139
    Abstract: A quick connector coupling for a fluid line includes a female connector body defining a through bore, a tubular male member with a raised annular upset, and a retainer demountably coupled to the connector body. A seal assembly provides a fluid tight seal between the tube and body bore. A separate outer spacer is secured to the body to receive axial load of the seal assembly. The body defines spaced arcuate locking ledges having axially inward facing radial locking surfaces. The outer spacer is a continuous annular element includes an integral radial ring defining an annular axially outward facing radial abutment surface in radial abutting relation to the locking surfaces of said body ledges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: TI Group Automotive Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Jim Kerin, Stephen Gunderson, Richard M. Pepe
  • Patent number: 8267435
    Abstract: A charge-air hose assembly includes a charge-air hose (2) for connecting to a pipe stub (4). The charge-air hose (2), in the assembled position, is pushed into the pipe stub (4) in such a way that overpressure occurring in the charge-air hose (2) presses the charge-air hose (2) radially outward against the radial inner wall (6) of the pipe stub (4). The charge-air hose (2) is assigned a latching device which, during the insertion of the charge-air hose (2) into the pipe stub (4), latches with the pipe stub (4) so as to axially fix the charge-air hose (2) to the pipe stub (4) in a predetermined axial position of the charge-air hose (2) relative to the pipe stub (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: ContiTech MGW GmbH
    Inventors: Jörg Hellfeier, Hartmut Brill, Helmut Hoffmann, Peter Reichardt, Dieter Bamberger, Karl-Heinz Siebels
  • 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: 8240716
    Abstract: A quick connector coupling for use with a fluid line includes a connector body defining a through bore extending from a male reception end of the connector body. The connector body is adapted to operably receive a male member extending through the male reception end of the connector body into the bore. A retainer is releasably coupled to the connector body. The retainer is movable relative to the connector body from an unlatched position to the latched position only when the male member is fully inserted into the body. A separable indicia element is releasably engaged to the retainer and is removable from the retainer only when the retainer is in the latched position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: TI Group Automotive System, LLC
    Inventors: Jim Kerin, Richard M. Pepe
  • Patent number: 8226128
    Abstract: A releasable nut-free C-clip secured pipe fitting includes a pipe to be jointed, a C-clip, a sealing ring, and a pipe fitting. The pipe has a jointed end forming a circumferential groove for receiving the C-clip. The C-clip is a ring like member having an opening, which allows for expansion and contraction of the C-clip so as to allow the C-clip to be disposed in a converging surface formed on an inside wall of the pipe fitting. The sealing ring is received in a sealing ring groove defined in the inside wall of the pipe fitting. The pipe fitting has a tube end forming a holding bore having an inside diameter smaller than a diameter of the converging surface. The tube end of the pipe fitting forms openings through which a tool can extend into the pipe fitting to contract the C-clip for releasing the C-clip and the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventor: Ming-Yi Lee
  • Patent number: 8220840
    Abstract: Positive locking device for components of snorkels and other equipment such as diving regulators, buoyancy compensator hoses and the like. The locking device in a preferred embodiment comprises a hard plastic C-shaped ring or clamp which is preferably mechanically and/or chemically bonded into a soft plastic component connector during molding of that component. The ring or clamp provides an effective locking feature which prevents inadvertent demating of components during a dive or other activity that could otherwise result in a dangerous loss of function. An additional embodiment of the invention provides an optional indexing feature which serves the useful function of audible and tactile feedback during adjustment of components having the locking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Atomic Aquatics, LLC
    Inventor: Dean R. Garraffa
  • Patent number: 8220841
    Abstract: A connection device for the plug connection of at least one media line includes a housing part with at least one reception orifice for plugging in a plug portion connected or connectable to the at least one media line. The housing part includes a basic part and an insert part. The basic part is releasably connected with a form fit to the insert part via a latching connection. The latching connection holds the insert part releasably and is formed by a C-shaped spring clip which is seated on the outside of the basic part and engages with at least one latching extension radially through an orifice of the basic part into a circumferential latching groove of the insert part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Voss Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Harald Hagen, Andreas Suhr, Reiner Mitterer
  • Publication number: 20120104746
    Abstract: A quick connector assembly that provides fluid communication between a first conduit and a second conduit. The quick connector assembly includes a housing and a retainer. The housing has a first end that connects with the first conduit, has a second end that connects with the second conduit, and has a fluid passage that extends between the first and second ends. The retainer is carried by the housing and has a portion located in the fluid passage of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: NORMA U.S. HOLDING LLC
    Inventors: Douglas Milton Fansler, Michael Richard Bucher