Sheet Patents (Class 285/424)
  • Patent number: 11555628
    Abstract: A sealing device for sealing a space defined between respective end portions of an adjacent pair of orthogonal flange members of a conditioned air duct having a generally rectangular cross-section. The sealing device includes a substantially planar first plate member having a surface configured for placement in face-to-face relation with corresponding adjacent planar surfaces of the adjacent pair of orthogonal flange members. A leg member extends away from a generally central portion of the first plate member and is generally perpendicular thereto. The leg member includes second and third orthogonal plate members extending in respective orthogonal planes and having respectively orthogonal surface portions. The second and third orthogonal plate members are configured and dimensioned to engage corresponding respective adjacent orthogonal inner wall surface portions of the duct when the first plate member is positioned on the planar surface portions of the adjacent pair of orthogonal flange members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: CAPITAL HARDWARE SUPPLY, INC.
    Inventor: David Yoskowitz
  • Patent number: 11499741
    Abstract: A flanged duct blank has a male part defined by lead notches formed at each side of a leading end and has a female part defined by trail notches formed at each side of a trailing end. The male part includes a lock tab. The female part includes a leg part and a Z-bend. The Z-bend includes a leg part and a gap. The duct blank is repeatedly clamped and bent by a pivoting wiper to form a duct portion. The pivoting wiper includes a clench tool that has a retractable rib and a retractable roller. With the lock tab inserted into the Z-bend and the retractable rib engaged with the Z-bend, the retractable roller clenches the leg part over the lock tab to lock the male and female parts together in a duct seam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: Mestek Machinery, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael C. Borwig
  • Patent number: 11454416
    Abstract: An air duct having first to third air ducts, each of the first to third air ducts has a duct structure having a first end and a second end, the duct structure of the each of the first to third air ducts are separable from each other, a cross sectional area of the first end is greater than a cross sectional area of the second end, a plurality of cross sectional areas between the first end and the second end decrease progressively from the first end to the second end, and the first to third air ducts are communicated successively in a direction such that the second end of the duct structure of the third air duct is arranged closer to the second end of the duct structure of the first air duct and further from the first end of the duct structure of the first air duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2022
    Assignee: GD MIDEA AIR-CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Changlin Yan, Liangrui Chen, Hongliang Yuan, Zhiqiang Liu, Xianyou Mao, Daijie Peng, Zhiqiang Yang, Liang Shen
  • Patent number: 10844980
    Abstract: A pipe and fitting coupling system includes a first pipe, a second pipe, and a joint. A receiving end of the second pipe includes a first flange, a second flange, a groove, and a sealant. The second flange extends further than the first flange. The groove is disposed at the pipe diameter and between the first flange and the second flange. The first flange has an inwardly angled face to meet the groove and the second flange has an outwardly angled face to meet the groove. The sealant is disposed in the groove to seal the plain end of the first pipe in the receiving end. The joint is formed by the cooperative alignment of the plain end being inserted into the receiving end and being sealed by the sealant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: Famous Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan Bauerdick, Don Smith, Thomas J. Moses, Jeffrey A. Koller
  • Patent number: 9869417
    Abstract: A pipe coupling structure is capable of coupling pipes together without driving a screw and using a tool. An example pipe coupling structure includes a first engagement portion formed in an end portion of a first air-conditioning duct. The first engagement portion extends in the circumferential directions and protrudes inside of the first air-conditioning duct. A second engagement portion is formed in an end portion of a second air-conditioning duct. The second engagement portion extends in the circumferential directions and protrudes outside of the second air-conditioning duct. When the end portion of the second air-conditioning duct is inserted into the end portion of the first air-conditioning duct, the second engagement portion climbs over the first engagement portion, and thereby the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion engage each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: SHINFUJI KUUCHOU CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Isamu Kajino, Takaaki Uchikawa
  • Patent number: 9708814
    Abstract: An interlocking panel system for top-down installation on an underlying structure including a plurality of panels, with an uphill course and a downhill course where each panel is generally rectangular, having an uphill edge and opposing downhill edge. An interlocking member is disposed along the uphill edge, and a receiving member adapted to receive the interlocking member and a joining flange are disposed along the downhill edge. A panel of the uphill course is affixed to an underlying structure via fasteners through the joining flange. The interlocking member of a panel of the downhill course is insertable into the receiving member of the uphill course, and the position of the panel of the downhill course is adjustable within the span of the receiving member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: Quality Edge, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul W. Vander Laan, Mike Moerler, Todd Alexander
  • Patent number: 9441843
    Abstract: A transition module for an energy recovery ventilator unit. The module comprises a frame having two opposing major surfaces with two separate through-hole openings therein. The module also comprises a self-sealing surface on one of the major surfaces and surrounding the two through-hole openings. One of the through-hole openings is configured to separately overlap with return air openings or supply air openings located in a first target side of one an energy recovery ventilator unit or an air handling unit and in a second target side of the other one of the energy recovery ventilator unit or the air handling unit. The other of the through-hole openings is configured to separately overlap with the other of the return air openings or the supply air openings located in the first and second sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Lennox Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Justin McKie, Eric Perez, Geoffrey Curtis, Bryan Smith
  • Patent number: 8985637
    Abstract: A sealing apparatus has a first cavity comprised of two separable sections for fastening about a second cavity, and the first cavity comprises a first flange that extends about the cavity's top periphery. The sealing apparatus further has a deformable seal located adjacent an inner surface of the first flange and a clamping seal flange fastened to the first flange adjacent and atop the deformable seal such that the deformable seal deforms as the clamping seal flange is tightened thereby creating pressure on side walls of the second cavity forming a seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventor: Kerry Fredrick Little
  • Patent number: 8973951
    Abstract: A vertical exhaust duct for an electronic equipment enclosure is provided. The vertical exhaust duct includes a first duct section, a second duct section slidably connected to the first duct section and extendable to a first height above the first duct section, and a third duct section slidably connected to the second duct section and extendable to a second height above the second duct section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Andrzej Nicewicz, Samuel J. Adducci, Alva B. Eaton, Samuel M. Marrs, Max W. Hibner
  • Patent number: 8973954
    Abstract: Sealing HVAC ductwork along its joints to reduce air leakage is achieved by the combination of a gasket and mechanical locking mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Ductmate Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Alvin Coughenour, Vincent L. Bloom, Duane Fetko
  • Patent number: 8678450
    Abstract: An apparatus for joining high pressure ducts has a first and second bar secured to adjacent to be joined ducts. A coupling mechanism having a U-shape is frictionally engaged onto the first and second bar. An end of the coupling mechanism frictionally engages the surface of the bar members so that the coupling mechanism is slidably removably connected to the first and second bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventor: David Seraphinoff
  • Patent number: 8651533
    Abstract: A duct mating assembly includes first and second ducts having side surfaces connected along their edges to define an interior air space. A coupling portion is formed on one of the first or second ends of the ducts. The coupling portion of the first duct includes first and second sections joined by side sections. The first section of the first duct includes a fifth portion that extends to a sixth portion. A transition portion is positioned between the fifth and sixth portions. The transition portion steps downward and extends forward and then steps back up relative to the fifth portion for preventing air leakage between the first and second ducts. The second section of the first duct includes a first snap feature formed thereon and the fourth section of the second duct including a second snap feature formed thereon, the first and second snap features are operative to connect the second and fourth sections of the first and second ducts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Samaneh Shahidehpour, Atsushi Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20130221667
    Abstract: This invention relates to sealing HVAC ductwork along its joints in order to reduce air leakage. The ductwork can be sealed by the combination of a gasket and mechanical locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: DUCTMATE INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Alvin Coughenour, Vincent L. Bloom, Duane Fetko
  • Patent number: 8486525
    Abstract: An application for an arced sealing tape has a bottom interfaced to an inner wall. The surface of the inner wall that is closest to a center point of the arc has an adhesive and the bottom surface of the bottom also has an adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: David G. Segur
  • Patent number: 8474881
    Abstract: A corner flange connection member for joining flanges of duct sections, includes two leg portions joined together in an angular relationship by a corner portion, the connection member being substantially flat and including at least one opening for receiving a fastening member having a threaded portion, the threaded portion having a root diameter, the opening being defined by two joined and offset partially rounded openings, at least one of the offset partially rounded openings having a sectional extent between opposite sides thereof about equal to the root diameter of the threaded portion of the fastening member, the offset being about equal to a thread height of threads of the threaded portion of the fastening member, and the sides of the offset openings being joined generally tangentially. The opening or openings can be located in the corner portion or one or both of the leg portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: H J Fischer, LLC
    Inventor: Herbert J. Fischer
  • Patent number: 8371619
    Abstract: A quick connection duct system with a unique connection mechanism for quick installation of hermetically sealed ducts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Inventor: Terrence Edward Boonstra
  • Patent number: 8322758
    Abstract: A juncture assembly is provided between first and second ends of respective first and second tubes. The assembly includes a first flange that is located at the first end and a second flange that is located at the second end, with the second flange being in confronting relationship with the first flange. The first and second flanges define a gap between them. A gasket member contacts the first and second flanges and is configured to prevent flow of fluids through the gap. A clamp member of the assembly secures the gasket member to the first and second flanges with the clamp member including a channel for receiving the first and second flanges and first and second restriction elements that extend into the channel for positioning the first and second flanges within the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Langdon Incorporated
    Inventors: Joseph P. Sandman, Michael N. Sandman
  • Patent number: 8317235
    Abstract: A flange cleat comprising a body having a first flange receiving portion and an immediately adjacent second flange receiving portion, a third flange receiving portion cooperatively disposed on the body opposite from the first flange receiving portion and the second flange receiving portion, the body having an elongate portion that extends from the third flange receiving portion, a flexible tab projecting from the elongate portion whereby the flexible tab can be depressed during installation, and the body being resiliently expandable during installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Hart & Cooley, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Kipker, Clark Pridemore, Michael Lutz, Alexander M. Prociv, Tiburcio Hernandez, Jr., Justin Johnston
  • Patent number: 8276622
    Abstract: The invention relates to a metal sheet (15) ventilation/smoke exhaust duct section (10) for incorporation into a metal sheet ventilation/smoke exhaust duct, said metal sheets (15) being covered on the outside by a heat insulating material (20) and said duct section (10) including elongated stiffening bar members (30) located on the outside of the duct and attached to said metal sheets (15), the invention being characterized in said bar members (30) being located at a distance from said metal sheets (15), said bar members (30) being attached to said metal sheets (15) at discrete locations along the length of the bar members (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Rockwool International A/S
    Inventors: Kurt Munk Pedersen, Kenn Christensen, Lars Elmekilde Hansen
  • Patent number: 8178197
    Abstract: An application for an arced sealing tape has a bottom, an inner wall and an outer wall. The surfaces of the inner wall and the outer wall that are closest to a center point of the arc have an adhesive. Likewise, a bottom surface of the bottom also has an adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: David G. Segur
  • Patent number: 8173235
    Abstract: An application for an arced sealing tape has a bottom, an inner wall and an outer wall. The outer wall has an outward flare extending outwardly from the center. The surfaces of the inner wall and the outer wall that are closest to a center point of the arc have an adhesive and a bottom surface of the bottom also has an adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Inventor: David G. Segur
  • Patent number: 8172280
    Abstract: In one embodiment, an improved high-speed corner flange connection member is disclosed which includes creases or bends allowing the leg portions to be bent or angularly deflected away from such creases downwardly so as to form a bowed configuration. In some embodiments, the connection member includes clearance holes and tap holes which are strategically positioned such that when a pair of duct sections are positioned in end-to-end relationship for joinder, the opposed connection members are arranged such that a clearance hole is positioned in registration with a tap hole; other embodiments include similarly shaped openings which are associated with the respective opposed connection members; and in still other embodiments, a substantially flat corner element is constructed utilizing the strategically placed clearance and tap holes. A plurality of differently configured high-speed fastener members for substantially eliminating misalignment and cross-threading issues are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Inventor: Herbert J. Fischer
  • Patent number: 8091926
    Abstract: A device (10) for connecting two duct elements (12, 14) and a baffle (34) in an aircraft air conditioning system may include first (30) and second (32) connecting flanges each connected to one of the two duct elements (12, 14), and at least one connecting element (38) formed on the first connecting flange (30) which interacts with at least one corresponding connecting element (40) formed on the second connecting flange (32) to establish the connection of the two duct elements (12, 14) and the baffle (34). The first (30) and/or second connecting flange (32) has/have an opening (44) for receiving the baffle (34), which is substantially disc-shaped and formed with at least one air passage (46, 48). The baffle (34) serves to control the flow of at least one air stream flowing through the connected duct elements (12, 14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Oliver Hofmann, Alfred Huber, Jurijs Zambergs
  • Patent number: 8056933
    Abstract: A mounting plate connects a first air channeling apparatus and a second air channeling apparatus. The first air channeling apparatus includes an air outlet and a flange projecting outward from the air outlet. The mounting plate is mounted to the second air channeling apparatus and comprises an opening, a first rail, alignment tabs, and a clamp member. The first rail on the mounting plate projects toward the first air channeling apparatus. The alignment tabs project toward the first air channeling apparatus and are configured to align with the air outlet. The clamp member has a first end and a second end. The first end is pivotally connected to the mounting plate and the clamp member includes a second rail. The flange of the first air channeling apparatus is secured between the first rail and the second rail as the clamp member is secured to the mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Dometic Corporation
    Inventor: William Joseph Liptak
  • Patent number: 7992904
    Abstract: HVAC ductwork should be sealed along its joints in order to reduce air leakage. The ductwork can be sealed by the combination of a gasket and mechanical locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Ductmate Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent L. Bloom, Douglas G. Gudenburr, Christopher A. Armstrong, Andrew J. Male
  • Patent number: 7971911
    Abstract: Plug part of a plug-type connection arrangement for connecting two fluid lines and plug-type connection arrangement including the plug part. The plug part includes at least one two-layer area, the two layers of the two-layer area including a metallic material. At least a portion of the plug part is structured and arranged to be fed into a coupling part of the plug-type connection arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: NORMA Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Janos Kertesz, Gerhard Wachter
  • Publication number: 20110156387
    Abstract: A duct is provided which there is no need to attach any reinforcing material to. This duct has a hollow 5 formed by joining a plurality of flat wall plates 11 to 14 so that the interior surfaces of the wall plates 11 to 14 face each other. The duct is provided with four folded portions including a strip-shaped folded portion 11C, 12C formed by folding each wall plate 11 to 14 on the side of the exterior surface of each wall plate 11 to 14.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: SHINFUJI KUUCHOU CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Toshikazu HASEGAWA, Isamu KAJINO
  • Patent number: 7798533
    Abstract: A ventilation chimney or exhaust fan flue section for hog barns has inner and outer plastic tubes formed by edge welding plastic sheets. A snug fitting insulation sheet is slid between the tubes. Collars of male and female coupling elements are inserted into the ends of the section between the inner and outer tubes and secured by screws passing through the outer tube and into the collars. The chimney can be installed by combining sections using a suitable adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventor: John Waldner
  • Patent number: 7744134
    Abstract: A connector assembly is used in connecting one duct section to another, at least one of the duct sections being an insulated duct. The assembly comprises a plurality of first elements, and a plurality of second elements, each first element including attachment means for attachment of an end face of a duct section thereto, and, in use, at least one second element engages with two first elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Doby Cleats Limited
    Inventor: Terence Raymond Dingley
  • Patent number: 7708034
    Abstract: A circular sheet metal duct having a sealant applied across the longitudinal seam. The sealant will improve the efficiency and will reduce or eliminate air leakage from the longitudinal seam. The sealant is applied during the manufacturing processes so that an installer does not have to seal the duct work. The method of manufacturing the sealant is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Ductmate Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas G. Gudenburr, Vincent L. Bloom
  • Patent number: 7681930
    Abstract: A flange for ductwork is integrally formed at a distal end of a duct surface. A first flange portion is formed perpendicularly outward from the duct surface. A second flange portion is bent at a right angle from the first flange portion and substantially parallel to the duct surface. A third flange portion is bent back to be in substantial touching relationship with the second flange portion and towards the first flange portion. A fourth flange portion is bent at a right angle from the third flange portion to be in substantial touching relationship with the first flange portion. Finally, a fifth flange portion is bent at a right angle from the fourth flange portion to be in substantial touching relationship with the duct surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: FormTek, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy Runyan, John Joseph Toben
  • Patent number: 7661730
    Abstract: An open clamping ring (11) is provided for connecting tubes (1) that are provided with terminal flanges (2). The clamping ring is drawn together with the aid of a clamping lock that is provided at the open ends of the clamping ring. The clamping (10) substantially has the shape of a U whose legs that are composed of an inner leg section (12) and an outer leg section (14) are bent such that a clamping edge (13) is formed in the central area between the leg sections (12 and 14). The inventive clamping ring (10) thus approximately has the shape of an X. The clamping edges (13) rest more or less linearly on the outside of the final flange sections (2a) such that the friction between the clamping ring (10) and the terminal flanges (2) is reduced when the clamping ring is assembled while force is transmitted and distributed in an optimal manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Metu Meinig AG
    Inventor: Manfred Meinig
  • Patent number: 7562912
    Abstract: The duct mating assembly includes a first duct having connected side members that define an interior air space. The side members include inner and outer surfaces. The first duct extends from a first end to a second end and the first end is offset relative to the second end. A second duct includes connected side members that define an interior air space. The side members include inner and outer surfaces. The second duct terminates at a connection opening. The first and second ducts are operative to couple with each other. The first duct is positioned within the connection opening of the second duct when coupled thereby defining an air gap between the first and second ducts. At least one of the side members of the first duct includes a projection portion formed thereon. The projection portion extends outward a distance to create a uniform sized air gap between the first and second ducts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: N. Antonio Saenz, Samaneh Shahidehpour
  • Patent number: 7490872
    Abstract: A cornerplate-less duct includes plate members joined to each other at side end portions by a seam joint to form a tubular duct having a rectangular cross-section. Two end portions of a plate are bent perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the plate to form flange forming portions. Corner forming portions protrude from side ends of the flange forming portions in a width direction to form corner portions at the end portions of the duct. In an expanded shape of the plate, a cut portion is provided close to a longitudinal center of the plate member such that the cut portion extends in a width direction of the plate member and has a depth substantially equal to an overlapping portion of the corner forming portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Air System Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshio Yamamoto, Mitsuru Marukawa, Yoshimasa Yoshimoto, Shozo Iizuka, Takashi Hara
  • Publication number: 20080174114
    Abstract: A corner (also known as angle flange) used to connect ducts together. The corner has an oblong or oval shaped button to help prevent rocking/play/loose movement thus providing a more secure/positive connection. A half moon squaring stop is used so that when the corner is inserted into a flange or frame, the corner cannot be inserted any more than a predetermined distance. Thus, the matching top and the bottom corners can be aligned properly and securely connected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventor: Joseph J. Reitano
  • Patent number: 7393021
    Abstract: A duct system generally comprises a flexible duct; a fitting having an end including either an in-turned circumferential lip or a plurality of circumferentially arranged tabs; a collar having a first end and a second end, the first end being adapted to be secured to the flexible duct, and the second end being adapted to be secured to the end of the fitting, such that, if the second end of the fitting includes an in-turned circumferential lip, the second end of the collar includes a plurality of circumferentially arranged tabs adapted to engage the in-turned circumferential lip, and if the end of the fitting includes a plurality of circumferentially arranged tabs, the second end of the collar includes an in-turned circumferential lip adapted to engage the plurality of circumferentially arranged tabs; and at least one gasket for forming a seal between the fitting and the collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Inventor: Serge Lukjan
  • Patent number: 7393020
    Abstract: In a pipe connection, a first pipe has a first flange of sheet metal provided with a first wall connected circumferentially to the first pipe. A second pipe has an end section shaped as a second flange. A clamp engages across the first and second flanges and has conical sidewalls forcing the first and second flanges axially against one another when tightening the clamp. The first flange delimits together with the first pipe an annular chamber that is coaxial to the longitudinal pipe axis. The first flange has a second wall that is glidingly supported on a free end of the first pipe. A sheet metal sealing ring is positioned between the first and second flanges. It has an edge section that is bent back onto a remaining sealing ring section that has a corrugation projecting past the bent edge section in an untightened state of the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: NORMA Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Günther Hartig, Steve Williams
  • Publication number: 20080134745
    Abstract: A duct structure (50), includes lengths of square/rectangular duct (52) manufactured by performing spiral duct in round cross-section (51) and then transforming the round cross-section into square and rectangular cross-sections utilizing expandable die structures (58). The duct (52) may be connected together end to end by flanged connectors (54) formed from strip stock (220), that is notched at locations that correspond to the corners of the formed flange connector. The cross-sectional profile of the flanged connector is then formed by roll forming and/or bending and/or other techniques. Thereafter, the strip stock is bent at its notched locations to define the corners (230) of the flange connector (54) and then the free ends of the strip stock are fixed together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Jeffrey Allen Hermanson
  • Patent number: 7347224
    Abstract: In order to provide a supply and exhaust pipe comprising a drop-off prevention mechanism, particularly effective for pipes with a large diameter, to increase bending strength and sealing efficiency, formation of a hemmed section A at an top edge of an insert portion 4 can eliminate the occurrence of buckling and increase bending strength. Furthermore, an O-ring for sealing can improve sealing efficiency and also can make itself follow a deformation of the pipe by forming it into a mushroom shape to establish close contacts to the pipe at two points, namely a neck 8b and a part of the circumference 8c of a cap 8a. Furthermore, a drop-off prevention mechanism of the pipe has a wide sliding piece 12, and an arc 17 with a curvature adapted to the curvature of the pipe is formed on the lower surface of the sliding piece 12, to stabilize its sliding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Tosetz Co. Ltd
    Inventors: Masahiko Nohara, Norio Hiruma
  • Patent number: 7344163
    Abstract: A section of trunking (20) has sides (22) which define a channel (34). Edge portions (32) of sides (22) are shaped so as to form further channels (34); Lid (26) has surface (29) and edge portions (30) which extend over channels (34) so as to form enclosed volumes. Screws (36) are used to fix lid (36) onto trunking section (20). Any water leaking through holes (38) and down the threads of screws (36) will be retained within channel (34) and will eventually dissipate between the side portion (30) of lid (26) and side (22) of trunking section (20). Trunking sections (20) are coupled by coupling (50) which is formed from surfaces (52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62 64 and 66) which themselves engage internal surfaces of the trunking sections and their respective lids. Coupling (50) is provided with pairs of threaded holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Inventor: Richard John Thompson
  • Publication number: 20070257487
    Abstract: An interlocking mechanism suitable for use with exhaust components. The mechanism may be provided on pipes, components, adapters or appliances. The mechanism includes an entry channel and a rotational channel positioned adjacent to entry channel. A locking bead is positioned in the rotational channel at a position in the channel defined to engage a mating element in a locking lug on a mating component when the lug is positioned adjacent to an end of the channel. The entry channel may include a face increasing in height from the entry portion to the end portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventors: John R. Jacklich, Eric Adair, Steven L. McIntyre
  • Publication number: 20070210579
    Abstract: Systems and methods for reinforcing joined segments of duct work for enabling a secured seal between two duct segments is provided. The device comprises a non-circular duct segment having a joining element on the non-circular duct segment and a reinforcement region located proximate to the joining element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Publication date: September 13, 2007
    Applicant: Lindab, Inc.
    Inventor: Steve Thornton
  • Patent number: 7234734
    Abstract: An integral transverse flange for a duct includes a first upturned portion extending substantially perpendicularly from a duct wall of the duct. The flange further includes a second portion bent rearwardly from the first upturned portion, and a third return portion turned toward the duct wall and rounded back toward the first upturned portion from the second portion. A fourth L-shaped portion extends from the third return portion, the L-shaped portion having a first arm arranged adjacent to and in close relation with the second portion and a second arm arranged adjacent to and in close relation with the first upturned portion. A bead is formed in the first upturned portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Met-Coil Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Michael C. Borwig, John J. Toben
  • Patent number: 7216898
    Abstract: Flanged rings for the connection end-to-end of thin, double walled circular ducting includes a first generally-circularly shaped ring having an outer insertion flange for connection to the outer wall of the double-walled duct. The first ring also includes: an exterior mating flange extending transversely from the outer insertion flange to define a first mating face; and an exterior hem that is substantially concentric to the outer flange to extend outwardly from the outer perimeter of the exterior mating flange. The flanged ring also includes: a second ring having an inner insertion flange connectable to the inner wall of the double-walled duct; the interior mating flange transverse from the interior insertion flange to define a second mating face; and an interior connection hem substantially concentric to the inner insertion flange and extending from the outer perimeter of the interior mating flange to overlap and be connected to the outer insertion flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Hermanson
  • Patent number: 7195290
    Abstract: A duct system comprising duct sections which are factory manufactured and field modifiable. The field modifiable duct system comprises fire resistant materials and is fire-rated. The duct sections when assembled create a continuous conduit that allows air to flow from a fresh air source to the required area of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Inventor: William Christopher Duffy
  • Patent number: 7163030
    Abstract: A duct structure (510), includes lengths of double wall square/rectangular duct (532) manufactured by pre-forming the duct in round cross-section (51) and then transforming the round cross-section into square and rectangular cross-sections utilizing expandable die structures (58). The duct (532) may be connected together end to end by flanged connectors (510, 520) formed from strip stock (71), that is notched at locations that correspond to the corners of the formed flange connector. The cross-sectional profile of the flanged connector is then formed by roll forming and/or bending and/or other techniques. Thereafter, the strip stock is bent at its notched locations to define the corners (80) of the flange connector outer and inner portions (511 and 512) and then the free ends of the strip stock are fixed together. Thereafter, the outer and inner flanged connector portions (511 and 512) are fastened together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventor: Jeffrey Allen Hermanson
  • Patent number: 7100634
    Abstract: An assembly for connecting two adjacent liquid collection basins is provided. The assembly includes a flume for connecting a first liquid collection basin to a second liquid collection basin. The flume comprises a generally rectangular structure having a top section, bottom section and two side sections, with an inward flange along one side of the flume and an outward flange along an opposite side of the flume. The flume is inserted through an opening in a wall of the first collection basin, through an opening in the wall of the second collection basin and affixed to each wall, in some embodiments with the use of a support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Baltimore Aircoil Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis Robb, Katherine K. Flamm, Thomas P. Carter
  • Patent number: 7073826
    Abstract: Butt joint between two pipe segments (10) of sheet metal with circular or oval cross-section, which respectively exhibit on one end a connecting flange (32), formed one-piece with the adjacent pipe wall (12), for producing the butt joint with an adjacent pipe segment. On the end of each pipe segment (10) there lies, on the outer side thereof, and a least against one radial inner part of a ring rim (14) of each connecting flange (32), a one-piece reinforcing ring (47) of sheet metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: METU-System Meinig KG
    Inventor: Manfred Meinig
  • Patent number: 7059346
    Abstract: An assembly for connecting two adjacent liquid collection basins is provided. The assembly includes a flume for connecting a first liquid collection basin to a second liquid collection basin. The flume comprises a generally rectangular structure having a top section, bottom section and two side sections, with an inward flange along one side of the flume and an outward flange along an opposite side of the flume. The flume is inserted through an opening in a wall of the first collection basin, through an opening in the wall of the second collection basin and affixed to each wall, in some embodiments with the use of a support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Inventors: Dennis Robb, Katherine K. Flamm, Thomas P. Carter
  • Patent number: 7029037
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for connecting and sealing duct sections is adapted for connecting and sealing round ducts (100), round oval ducts (200), and other commonly used ducts. The apparatus includes first and second connectors. Each connector includes a tubular member (20) having an outside diameter that is incrementally smaller than the inside diameter of the duct to which it is attached. An O-ring (40) carried in an O-ring channel defined in the tubular member makes an air-tight seal with the duct. A radially directed annular flange (50) extends outwardly from an outer end of the tubular member. An outer perimeter of the flange forms a rolled edge (60). A gasket (70) may be carried between the outer surfaces of adjacent flanges of first and second connectors associated with first and second ducts to be joined. Duct sealer (80) may also be carried between the outer surfaces, with or without a gasket. A plurality of fasteners (90) may be used to fasten the flanges together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Stamped Fittings, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark E Poole