Coupling To Conduit Patents (Class 29/237)
  • Publication number: 20120047704
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are shown for installing a metal transition end on an open end of a length of plastic pipe having an outer diameter and an inner diameter by placing a stiffener sleeve within the inner diameter of the plastic pipe at a point which is circumscribed by the metal transition end. An installer apparatus is positioned over the open end of the length of plastic pipe and the metal transition end from the direction of the open plastic pipe end. The apparatus has a draw rod which extends along a horizontal axis generally aligned with the open pipe end. A metal stiffener sleeve is temporarily mounted on a segmented grip located on one end of the draw rod. An actuating sleeve, carried on the draw rod, allows the stiffener sleeve to be installed in a desired location within the open plastic pipe end by using the draw rod to first position the stiffener sleeve in the desired location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Leland P. Stukey, Gaylen R. Stukey, Jess Sammann
  • Patent number: 8112877
    Abstract: A connector compression tool is provided wherein the tool includes a handle, pivotally moveable from a second position to a first position, a body, configured to compress together when the handle is moved to the first position, and a jaw, operably associated with the body, wherein the jaw includes at least two centering openings having different widths to accommodate differently configured connectors having different diameters and different lengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: John Mezzalingua Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Mayue Xie, Shawn M. Chawgo, Noah P. Montena
  • Patent number: 8112876
    Abstract: A connector compression tool and associated method of compressing a connector is provided wherein the tool includes a handle, pivotally moveable from a second position to a first position, a body, configured to compress together when the handle is moved to the first position, and a jaw, operably associated with the body, wherein the jaw includes at least two centering openings having different widths to accommodate differently configured connectors having different diameters and different lengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: John Mezzalingua Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Mayue Xie, Shawn M. Chawgo, Noah P. Montena
  • Publication number: 20120030917
    Abstract: A swage tool for swaging axially swaged fittings includes a housing having an inner surface and a first yoke. A ram includes a recessed portion having a threaded inner surface portion. A piston includes a second yoke. A piston rod includes a spring holder and a threaded portion screwed into the threaded inner surface portion of the ram. A spring is connected to the spring holder. Carbon fiber bearings are provided on the ram and on an outer surface portion of the piston rod in axial slidable engagement with the inner surface of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: DESIGNED METAL CONNECTIONS, INC.
    Inventor: May Danhash
  • Patent number: 8096031
    Abstract: A hand tool that can be used to physically engage a release feature on a push-lock fitting so that a tube, hose, or other conduit can be easily inserted into and/or removed from the fitting. This can be particularly useful with industrial machines that have a number of pneumatic fittings installed close together in a tight proximity. According to one embodiment, the hand tool includes an elongated body portion, engagement portions located at opposing ends of the body portion, and transition portions located therebetween. Each engagement portion includes an open pocket for fitting around the tube, and a contact surface for engaging the release feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Randall H. Decker, Martin J. Champ, Ronald Topinka
  • Patent number: 8091193
    Abstract: A fuel insertion tube tool for installing a fuel tube on a barb. The tool has first and second arms that are pivotably attached through an arm pivot axis. Each arm has a grip to engage the fuel tube. A tab extends from the first arm and is pivotably attached to a proximal end of a bar with a pivot pin that defines a bar axis. The bar axis and the arm axis are perpendicular to each other. A hook is disposed at a distal end of the bar for engagement with an attachment site. The tab functions as a fulcrum to reduce the amount of force required to install the fuel tube on the barb. The bar has weight reducing holes and the grips have straight knurls for frictional engagement with the fuel tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chad Marshall
  • Publication number: 20110302764
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for use is provided to remove the flare from the end of a hose to be inserted into a connector. The apparatus serves to align the braids, typically woven of stainless steel mesh, which encompass high pressure hosing such as found in a high pressure gas line. The compressed and aligned strands of mesh can then be easily slid into the receiver of the connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Inventor: Scott Smith
  • Patent number: 8056218
    Abstract: Crimping apparatus for crimping separate parts of a metal sleeve arranged concentrically about the junction between a shielded cable and a plug connector, including a pair of colinearly arranged annular crimping dies that are operable by an annular operating member arranged concentrically about the crimping dies, such that upon a single angular movement of the operating member in a given direction from a retracted position to a crimping position, one end of the sleeve is crimped to the plug in one desired manner, and the other end of the sleeve is crimped to the shielded cable in another desired manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Weidmueller Interface GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Marcell Nickol, Andreas Amstein
  • Publication number: 20110271502
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transmission mechanism for a drive system, having at least one tensioning device and acting in two directions. For force transmission, the tractive device runs between a drive roll and an output roll, which are carried by a frame. A spring coupling is connected in the force transmission section between the drive roll and the output roll and has a nonlinear force-distance characteristic curve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicants: REHAU AG & CO., RENNSTEIG WERKZEUGE GMBH
    Inventors: Ralf Legler, Horst Hofmann, Georg Holland-Moritz, Thomas Wagner
  • Publication number: 20110252617
    Abstract: A system of joining two tubes is provided. More specifically, a node is formed on an end of an inner tube that is received within an outer tube. A portion of the outer tube is then deflected into the indent such that the outer tube matingly engages the inner tube. The force required to deflect the portion of the outer tube into the inner tube is provided by tensioning a band clamp positioned around the outer tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: BAND-IT-IDEX, INC.
    Inventors: Brian Swetlic, Matthew Bush
  • Patent number: 8024855
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device for crimping a contact on a cable end portion, comprising an axial bore (2) and: first means for crimping (3) the contact on one stripped part of the cable and second means for crimping (4) the contact on one sheathed part of the cable, said means being mobile between a spaced apart position and a crimping position; first and second means for moving (6, 17) said first and second crimping means (3,4) between their spaced apart position and their crimping position; the first displacement means (6) being actuatable in translation along an axial direction and the second displacement means (17) being actuatable in rotation about the axis of the bore (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Labinal SA
    Inventors: Serge Gry-Gorowicz, Patrick Gauthier, Flavien Coste
  • Publication number: 20110219594
    Abstract: A tool device for the connection of a plastic pipe, particularly a plastic/metal composite pipe, to a fitting having a compression or sliding sleeve, has a housing (40), a drive element (20) that can be mechanically driven, which can be displaced selectively along a first movement direction or along a second movement direction, a pipe expanding tool (14) for expanding a pipe end (50) that can be slid onto a supporting sleeve (48) of a fitting (46), and a compression sleeve-pressing tool (16) or a sliding sleeve-sliding tool (16?) for pressing a compression sleeve (52) onto the expanded pipe end (50) having been slid onto the supporting sleeve (48) of the fitting (46?) or for sliding a sliding sleeve (52?) onto the expanded pipe end (50) having been slid onto the supporting sleeve (48).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: Uponor Innovation Ab
    Inventor: Bernd Kaufmann
  • Patent number: 7984538
    Abstract: An installation tool assembly for advancing a fitting's swage ring onto a fitting's connector body while a conduit is received in the connector body to mechanically and sealingly connect the fitting to the conduit includes a body defining at least two spaced apart piston chambers, a fixed jaw connected to the body and adapted to engage one of the connector body or the swage ring, and a movable jaw connected to the body and movable relative to the fixed jaw. The movable jaw is adapted to engage the other of the connector body or the swage ring. Pistons are disposed in the at least two spaced piston chambers. The pistons and the movable jaw are configured such that movement of the pistons in a first direction moves the movable jaw toward the fixed jaw thereby moving the swage ring axially onto the connector body to mechanically and sealingly connect the connector body to the conduit received therein when the fixed and movable jaws are engaged to the connector body and swage ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Lokring Technology LLC
    Inventor: Albert A. McKay
  • Publication number: 20110167612
    Abstract: A fuel insertion tube tool for installing a fuel tube on a barb. The tool has first and second arms that are pivotably attached through an arm pivot axis. Each arm has a grip to engage the fuel tube. A tab extends from the first arm and is pivotably attached to a proximal end of a bar with a pivot pin that defines a bar axis. The bar axis and the arm axis are perpendicular to each other. A hook is disposed at a distal end of the bar for engagement with an attachment site. The tab functions as a fulcrum to reduce the amount of force required to install the fuel tube on the barb. The bar has weight reducing holes and the grips have straight knurls for frictional engagement with the fuel tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chad Marshall
  • Publication number: 20110138606
    Abstract: An application for a clamp tool that has stop edges and ear edges. In one embodiment, stop edges close against each other while the ear edges, being cut deeper than the stop edges, do not touch each other and provide a space between which an ear of a clamp is position and closed by the clamp tool without cutting or nicking unnecessarily into the ear of the clamp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Larry F. Bobenhausen
  • Patent number: 7930809
    Abstract: A boot slider includes a body including a compartment. A piston is disposed in the compartment and is moveable between a first position and a second position. A cap is mounted in the compartment in order to restrain movement of the piston. A plurality of arms is connected together by a ring, and the ring is adapted to be retained on the cap. The arms are closed when the piston is in the first position, and the arms are urged open when the piston is in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Yakita Metal Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chia-Hao Huang
  • Patent number: 7918002
    Abstract: A tubing disconnect tool and a method of disconnecting tubing. A disconnect tool for disconnecting a tubing end which is inserted within a collet of a fitting comprises a first plate member, a second plate member and bias member. The first plate member has a first front portion, a first rear portion and a first middle portion. The first plate member further has a channel disposed within the first middle portion. The second plate member has a second front portion, a second rear portion and a second middle portion. The second plate member also has a second channel disposed within the second middle portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Inventor: Craig Kissel
  • Patent number: 7886661
    Abstract: Radial compression mechanism includes a base member and a plurality of elongated compression dies. The dies are arranged in a generally circular orientation on the base member with a contact surface of each die in sliding contact with a base surface of an adjacent die. A portion of each base surface of each die cooperates with portions of base surfaces of adjacent dies to define a generally cylindrical central cavity moved between open and closed positions by a driving mechanism. The dies are cammingly coupled to the base member and to the driving mechanism so that rotation of the driving mechanism about the central axis causes each die to move generally arcuately about a point of camming engagement with the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventors: Ed Goff, Jeremiah J. Warriner, Justin Knight
  • Publication number: 20110016682
    Abstract: The present invention provides a tool for securing fittings for fluid delivery systems, such as drip irrigation systems, and assisting in the assembly of such systems. Specifically, the tool is a device sized and shaped to fit comfortably within the hand of an adult, having a channel therein to accept and secure fittings, which can then be easily be inserted into fluid delivery tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Benjamin H. Wood, III
  • Publication number: 20110016696
    Abstract: The invention relates to a compression tool (2) for the permanent connection of workpieces (14, 16, 18, 30, 34) having two pivot elements (4), which each have a compression jaw (10), and having at least one rotational axis (6), on which the pivot elements (4) are hinged, wherein the inner contours of the opposing compression jaws (10) form a receiving area (12). The present invention is based on the technical problem of disclosing an alternative compression tool (2), with which a permanent connection can be provided between workpieces (14, 16, 18, 30, 34) by axial compression. The technical problem is solved in that the inner contours have at least one sliding face (2), which is inclined relative to the receiving area axis (20). A compression tool (2) can thus be provided which, starting from a radial inward movement, performs a compression in the axial direction, nonetheless requires little installation space, and offers weight advantages due to a smaller axial extension, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: VIEGA GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Frank Hofmann, Sudi Sinoplu, Andreas HĂ¼tte
  • Publication number: 20110006517
    Abstract: A duplex pipe fitting includes a fitting main body 1 and a pair of coupling members 2 which are threaded to both ends of the fitting main body 1. The coupling members 2 are threaded to the fitting main body 1, so that two pipes P are connected to each other with the fitting main body 1. Each coupling member 2 includes a holding portion 24 including a holding surface consisting of a pair of or a plurality of pairs of planes facing each other so that it can be held with a general fastening tool. When a rotational torque for tightening the coupling member 2 to the fitting main body 1 reaches a value indicating the completion of fastening, at least a part of the holding portion including the holding surface is separated and the pipe connecting is complete.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Inventor: Haruo Nakata
  • Patent number: 7823271
    Abstract: A connector compression tool is provided wherein the tool includes a handle, pivotally moveable from a second position to a first position, a body, configured to compress together when the handle is moved to the first position, and a jaw, operably associated with the body, wherein the jaw includes at least two centering openings having different widths to accommodate differently configured connectors having different diameters and different lengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: John Mezzalingua Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Mayue Xie, Shawn M. Chawgo, Noah P. Montena
  • Patent number: 7818856
    Abstract: A tool adapted for assembling a hose material within a connector opening. In one form the present application relates to a tool for introducing the frayed braided wires at the cut end of a braided hose into a connector/socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventor: Richard C. Raczuk
  • Patent number: 7818857
    Abstract: A tube joining and loop formation device that aligns and pre-positions two ends of a synthetic resin tubular work piece for insertion onto a single internal joining plug by frictional interference thereon. The joining device clamps the tubes inwardly from its free ends in independent fixtures which are then simultaneously driven towards coupling temporarily held in a movable aligned fixture for internal engagement therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventor: Anthony Viviano
  • Patent number: 7805823
    Abstract: An axial swage alignment tool (11) having a bridge member (27) for axially and rotationally aligning a metal tube (21) and a fitting (31) is disclosed. The bridge member that is temporarily bonded to the exterior surfaces of the metal tube and the fitting. The bridge member eliminates the need to place any material between the metal tube and the fitting either prior to or after the swaging process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
    Inventors: David D. Sembritzky, Terry L. Saville
  • Patent number: 7788779
    Abstract: Disclosed is a pressing device (1) for compressingly joining pipe-shaped workpieces, particularly a pipe end (2) and a fitting (3) mounted thereon. At least one of the workpieces is plastically deformed by several press members which are movable along a central longitudinal axis of the workpieces for performing the compression. In order to produce a pressing device with several compression jaws that are comparatively easy to mount and allow the press members to be engaged as centrally as possible during compression, at least two press members are pivotally connected to each other by means of two articulated levers embodied as angle levers for applying compression force. The angle levers pressingly lean on a (first) press member (5), and both angle levers are train-connected to the same (second) press member (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Gustav Klauke GmbH
    Inventor: Egbert Frenken
  • Patent number: 7779672
    Abstract: The invention is a method and device for measuring the minimum miscibility pressure of two phases having application for enhanced oil recovery or CO2 geologic storage. In a pressure cell, gas is bubbled into a liquid, or conversely, liquid is dripped into a gas. The presence of bubbles or of drops is detected through the differential pressure variation measured between the inside of the cell and an injected phase injection line. This measurement is performed by means of a very accurate differential pressure sensor, for various pressures imposed within the cell. A relation between the number of bubbles or of drops formed per time unit and pressures within the cell is deduced therefrom. The minimum miscibility pressure of the two phases then corresponds to the pressure for which the inverse of the number of bubbles or of drops is zero, which is deduced by extrapolation of the relation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: IFP
    Inventor: Michel Robin
  • Patent number: 7779523
    Abstract: Disclosed is a pressing device for compressingly joining pipe-shaped workpieces, particularly a pipe end and a fitting mounted thereon. At least one of the workpieces is plastically deformed by several press members which are movable along a central longitudinal axis of the workpieces for performing the compression. In order to produce a pressing device with several compression jaws that are comparatively easy to mount and allow the press members to be engaged as centrally as possible during compression, at least two press members are pivotally connected to each other by means of two articulated levers embodied as angle levers for applying compression force. The angle levers pressingly lean on a (first) press member, and both angle levers are train-connected to the same (second) press member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Gustav Klauke GmbH
    Inventor: Egbert Frenken
  • Publication number: 20100194105
    Abstract: A ventilation duct assembly kit for use for forming interconnecting ventilation ducts. The kit includes a pallet supporting a flexible panels that are shapeable into ductwork elements. Each of the panels has opposite duct-forming sides, opposite interconnecting sides for interconnection to a subsequent panel formed into a ductwork element, and a male and female interlocking interfaces respectively fixed on first and second opposite duct-forming sides for interlocking of the duct-forming sides together. The kit also includes slideable locking elements shaped to slide and fit over assembled male and female interlocking interfaces. A plurality of collets shaped to fit over the interconnecting sides of the formed ductwork elements and sized to extend between the adjacent slideable locking elements from corresponding adjacent shaped ductwork elements that are linked through the collet are also provided. A method of assembling such interconnecting ventilation ducts is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: 9074-1133 Quebec Inc.
    Inventors: André Paquet, Cristian Paquet
  • Patent number: 7757366
    Abstract: A coupling for connecting pipes, having a seal, flanges, a threaded portion and a nut, where the end portion of the pipe is equipped with a concentric press surface located immediately proximal to the periphery of the pipe and designed to be able to take an axial pressure from a preloading tool, which pressure is distributed evenly or point-by-point about the periphery of the pipe. The preloading tool has two end sections connected to two or more rods, each rod being equipped with a hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Marine Direct Consultants Ltd.
    Inventors: Stephen W. Vorley, John S. Giles
  • Patent number: 7730598
    Abstract: A conduit disconnect tool is fabricated from a hollow tubular member having one end angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the hollow tubular member and formed with a fork configuration at that end. The opposite end of the tool is milled to provide a semi-cylindrical section. Either end may be impinged on a fitting release plate to effect and permit removal of conduit from the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Lisle Corporation
    Inventor: Scotty R. Kurtz
  • Publication number: 20100107393
    Abstract: A tool for the connection of tubes (T) by means of connection sleeves (C), comprising two jaws (2, 3) which are mutually movable between an open rest position, and a closed work position wherein they define an annular reception seat (7) of the connection sleeve (C), and wherein they turn a circumferential series of radial punches (6) towards the sleeve (C); said jaws (2, 3) each comprising at least one punch (6) sliding towards the centre of said reception seat (7), and being mutually connected by means of a kinematic system which permits them, when they are found in said open rest position, to confer a generally open-ring shape to said reception seat (7), through whose lateral opening (8) the connection sleeve (C) can be inserted and extracted by lateral movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: PI.EFFE.CI S.R.L.
    Inventors: Ivaldo Vernasca, Carlo Vernasca, Francesco Vernasca
  • Publication number: 20100088869
    Abstract: A tool (20) for a pipe fitting arrangement in which a pipe is retainable arranged within a housing (1) by teeth (13) of a grip ring (12) placed within the housing, the tool comprising: first engagement means for engaging the pipe, said first engagement means having at least one part (12) adapted to enter the housing around the pipe in order to force the teeth of the grip rin out of engagement with the pipe, second engagement means for engaging the first engagement means as well as the housing in order to locate the housing relative to the tool, and a handle connected or connectable with the second engagement means. The first engagement means being connected to the second engagement means via at least one first joint being in form of a pivot (24f) and/or at least one first spring means (38) in order to be at least partly displaceable relative to the second engagement means, and a method using such a tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: IBP IPR LIMITED
    Inventors: Steven Paul Webb, Alan Richard Glaze
  • Patent number: 7690237
    Abstract: A crimping tool is disclosed that includes a housing assembly carrying a crimping assembly having jaws with engagement surfaces designed to move in the radial direction under controlled load and controlled displacement with application of hydraulic pressure to pistons provided to load the jaws. The crimping tool is designed to be separable into two parts, which facilitates assembly and disassembly of the tool around the work piece for crimping at locations remote from the end of a continuous or long section of pipe. This tool is adapted for use in crimping end fittings onto composite pipe and for use in a field environment where the tool is manually transportable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Noetic Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Maurice William Slack
  • Publication number: 20100031485
    Abstract: A hand tool that can be used to physically engage a release feature on a push-lock fitting so that a tube, hose, or other conduit can be easily inserted into and/or removed from the fitting. This can be particularly useful with industrial machines that have a number of pneumatic fittings installed close together in a tight proximity. According to one embodiment, the hand tool includes an elongated body portion, engagement portions located at opposing ends of the body portion, and transition portions located therebetween. Each engagement portion includes an open pocket for fitting around the tube, and a contact surface for engaging the release feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Randall H. Decker, Martin J. Champ, Ronald Topinka
  • Publication number: 20100031486
    Abstract: The hose quick release tool is a one-piece tool that is easily manipulated to engage a conduit at the coupling juncture and deform the coupling assembly in a manner to affect a release of the coupling assembly without incurring any damage to the assembly. The tool has multiple embodiments, each embodiment of the tool having openings that are dimensioned and configured to adapt to most conventional quick-coupling assemblies. The tools are preferably fabricated from metal for durability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventor: Bryan L. Catlin
  • Publication number: 20090301292
    Abstract: A fluidic artificial muscle actuator consisting of an inner elastic bladder surrounded by a braided filament sleeve and sealed off on either end with end fittings. Pressurization of the actuator produces force and/or motion through radial movement of the bladder and sleeve which forces the sleeve to move axially. Both contractile and extensile motions are possible depending on the geometry of the braided sleeve. The fluidic artificial muscle actuator is manufactured using a swaging process which plastically deforms swage tubes around the end fittings, braided sleeve, and pressure bladder, creating a strong mechanical clamping action that may be augmented with adhesive bonding of the components. The swaging system includes the swaging die and associated components which are used to plastically deform the swage tube during assembly of the actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventors: Curt Kothera, Norman M. Wereley, Benjamin K.S. Woods
  • Publication number: 20090300917
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for a swaging apparatus. The swaging apparatus comprises a housing, a holding unit, and a moveable member. The holding unit on the housing is capable of receiving and holding an inflexible tube and a swage fitting. The moveable member is capable of moving axially along the housing with respect to an axis for the inflexible tube and the swage fitting to connect the swage fitting to the inflexible tube and create a seal between the swage fitting and the inflexible tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Peter K. Hwang
  • Patent number: 7625017
    Abstract: A coupling having two or more mating components with alignment of the mating components provided by mating projections and recesses. The components include extensions having bolt hole that align to form a bolt pathway when the components are properly aligned, and that do not align to form a bolt pathway through the extensions when the components are improperly aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventor: Joseph G. Radzik
  • Patent number: 7618252
    Abstract: Balloon pleating mechanism includes a plurality of pleating dies, each having a first planar guiding surface, a second planar guiding surface, a bearing surface, a first working surface, and a second working surface. The plurality of pleating dies are arranged in a generally circular orientation with the first planar guiding surface of each die being in sliding contact with the second planar guiding surface of an adjacent die and the first working surface and the second working surface of each die of the plurality of dies cooperating to define a central cavity. The plurality of pleating dies is further arranged for relative radial movement between an open position and a closed position. A driving mechanism is coupled to each die and designed to move the plurality of dies between the open position and the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Inventor: Ed Goff
  • Patent number: 7617580
    Abstract: A portable, hand held tool used for the controlled separation of tubing and connectors with radial claws and release buttons. The tool consists of a main handle, support handle and grasping handle. The main handle has an extension spring which returns the tool to a closed position when at rest. The main handle also has chuck receiver to allow the attachment of various sizes of chucks. A grasping jaw is located on the support handle and is operated by the grasping handle. The handles are connected near the middle of the tool utilizing a main pivot pin and a grasping pivot pin allowing the tool to grasp the tubing and causing the chuck and grasping jaw to separate relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Inventor: Ryan C. Ellis
  • Publication number: 20090278347
    Abstract: A fluid coupling includes an insertion verifier having a ring and a plurality of forwardly extending legs connected to the ring and disposed in slots defined by side walls of locking arms defined in a retainer. The ring forms an open segment for installation of the ring around a tube. A release tool for disengaging the fluid coupling from a locked to an unlocked position includes a handle forming a gap at a free end thereof between two a semi-cylindrical arcuate members forming a cylindrical release sleeve. The release tool further includes two insertion prongs defining a pocket therebetween. The release sleeve is adapted to disengage the retainer, and the pocket is adapted to disengage the verifier of the fluid coupling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventors: Jim Kerin, Stephen H. Gunderson
  • Publication number: 20090260216
    Abstract: A device and method for coupling a pipe and a fitting. The device includes a pipe holder for releasably gripping a pipe, a fitting retainer for releasably retaining a pipe fitting substantially coaxially with a pipe in the pipe holder, and means for driving together the pipe holder and the fitting retainer along a longitudinal axis in a relative motion between them. The device may optionally slide a reinforcing sleeve along the pipe to cover the end of the pipe on the fitting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Applicant: SAGIV SHITUFIT CHAKLAIT BE'AM
    Inventor: Moty Avnon
  • Patent number: 7553268
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tool holding clamp for a multiple change of tools for radial presses, where said presses comprise a plurality of radial jaws (12, 12?) onto which the tools (14) are mounted and where tools and jaws are provided with complementary coupling means, such as radial pins (15) and relative slots (16). The clamp presents centering devices, working together with the radial press to guarantee alignment of said complementary devices when the tools are mounted onto the jaws of the press. A tool holding rack for radial presses also constitutes the object of the invention, and is provided with devices adapted to interacting with the tool holding clamp for positioning the tools onto said clamp in the position of alignment with the jaws of the press.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: OP S.r.l.
    Inventor: Massimo Ziliani
  • Patent number: 7520042
    Abstract: An end piece for a flexible connector comprises a sleeve defining the proximal end thereof. A length of corrugated tubing is extended into the sleeve and the sleeve is crimped thereby joining the length of corrugated tubing to the end piece. For high pressure applications a length of polymeric tubing, a length of mesh tubing, and an outer sleeve are positioned in a surrounding relationship to the sleeve of the end piece and the outer sleeve is crimped thereby securing the length of mesh tubing to the end piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Flex-Ing, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas L. Ingram
  • Patent number: 7506580
    Abstract: The pressing device serves for the relative axial movement of two parts, which are arranged coaxially with respect to one another and are moveable relative to one another only by high pressing power. The pressing device has one fixed pressure plate and one pressure plate which is moved axially by hydraulic cylinders and an insert which is to be placed around the parts which are to be pressed. The insert is held closed by means of a closure door which is articulatedly mounted on the moving part of the pressing device. The pressure cylinders are arranged as close as possible to the center of pressure, that is to say to the axis of the parts which are to be pressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Rego-Fix AG
    Inventor: Martin Brönnimann
  • Patent number: 7490397
    Abstract: A flexible connector comprises a length of corrugated tubing, a polymeric sleeve aligned with the distal end of the length of corrugated tubing, and a length of mesh tubing extending the entire length of corrugated tubing and over the polymeric sleeve. The distal end of the corrugated tubing, the polymeric sleeve, and the distal end of the length of mesh tubing are received in a sleeve which is formed integrally with an end piece. The sleeve is crimped into permanent retaining engagement with the length of corrugated tubing, the polymeric sleeve, and the length of mesh tubing. The end piece functions to secure the flexible connector into engagement with an adjacent component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Flex-ing, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas L. Ingram
  • Publication number: 20080308000
    Abstract: In one embodiment a railway tank car is described. The railway tank car includes a tank having a tank shell, the tank shell having an interior surface and an exterior surface. The railway tank car also includes an eduction pipe extending within an interior of said tank. The railway tank car also includes an eduction pipe guide affixed to the tank shell. The eduction pipe guide includes a guide member maintained at a predetermined distance from a lower portion of the tank shell interior surface. The eduction pipe guide configured such that at least a portion of the eduction pipe extends through the guide member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Charles Pelton
  • Publication number: 20080276683
    Abstract: Disclosed is a pressing device for compressingly joining pipe-shaped workpieces, particularly a pipe end and a fitting mounted thereon. At least one of the workpieces is plastically deformed by several press members which are movable along a central longitudinal axis of the workpieces for performing the compression. In order to produce a pressing device with several compression jaws that are comparatively easy to mount and allow the press members to be engaged as centrally as possible during compression, at least two press members are pivotally connected to each other by means of two articulated levers embodied as angle levers for applying compression force. The angle levers pressingly lean on a (first) press member, and both angle levers are train-connected to the same (second) press member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: EGBERT FRENKEN
  • Patent number: 7421768
    Abstract: A fuel hose line assembling apparatus comprises a base, a transmission, a fixing member and a hose fixing jig. The base comprises at least two chutes. The transmission and the hose fixing jig are mounted on two sides of the base respectively. An adjusting screw is movably installed in the pedestal and the fixing member is mounted on one side of the adjusting screw. Therefore, the fixing member is moved on the base by the adjusting screw driving. Moreover, the fixing member has a fixture jig for putting a nut therein and the hose fixing jig clips a hose fixedly. When a user drives the transmission to move the fixing member, the nut is firmly scabbarded in the hose line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Chun-Pao Chiang