Sealing Patents (Class 411/542)
  • Patent number: 11815181
    Abstract: A sealing device for banjo fittings including a sealing ring, a gasket and one or more straps attaching the sealing ring to the gasket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: AGCO International GmbH
    Inventor: Ulrich Dietrich
  • Patent number: 11698091
    Abstract: A welded structural assembly and method, in one form, includes an upper substrate, a lower substrate adjacent the upper substrate, a fastener, and a sealing member. The fastener includes a shank portion, a first head portion, and a second head portion. The shank portion extends through the upper substrate and into the lower substrate. The shank is welded to the lower substrate. The first head portion has an outer periphery and an underside. The second head portion is frangibly coupled to the first head portion. The sealing member is disposed under the first head portion between the upper substrate and the first head portion. The sealing member contacts the underside and extends beyond the outer periphery such that the sealing member extends radially outward beyond all points of the first head portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2023
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David John Hill, Amanda Kay Freis, Nia R. Harrison
  • Patent number: 11365760
    Abstract: A washer for protecting a flange. The washer is capable of withstanding high compression loads, protecting a flange plate from galvanic corrosion, and maintaining torque load when a flange joint is exposed to extreme heat. The washer has two primary components—an inner ring and an outer ring—that are preferably made of materials having dielectric properties, particularly with respect to electrical insulation. The inner ring and outer ring are preferably fit together using an interference fit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Inventors: Damian Daigle, Joseph E. Wilson, Miguel Regato
  • Patent number: 10941806
    Abstract: A washer is configured to be secured underneath a flange of a fastening clip assembly. The washer includes an annular support ring defining a central channel and having a first surface and a second surface that is opposite from the first surface. The first surface is configured to abut into and sealingly engage the flange at two or more locations. An inner sealing rim extends from the second surface proximate to the central channel. The inner sealing rim is configured to sealingly engage a component at a first component sealing interface. An outer sealing rim extends from the second surface and is outwardly separated from the inner sealing rim by a gap. The outer sealing rim is configured to sealingly engage the component at a second component sealing interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Mikeal Zander
  • Patent number: 10899468
    Abstract: A washer assembly including a metallic washer and a polymer seal. The metallic washer defines a cylindrical void and an axis therethrough. The polymer seal is attached to the metallic washer and is positioned radially inward thereof. The polymer seal includes a lower seal portion positioned at least partially within the cylindrical void and defining a counter-bore, and an upper seal portion extending axially from the lower seal portion. The lower seal portion is configured to engage, at the counter-bore, a fastener to form a seal to reduce escape of energized particles. The upper seal portion is configured to engage a counter-bore of a counter-bored nut to form a seal inside the counter-bored nut to reduce escape of energized particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Sean Dennis Morden, Peter Apolonio Coronado, Haftom Y. Dessalegn
  • Patent number: 10801536
    Abstract: The invention relates to a deformable body with a hole which is suitable for receiving an anti-creepage ring and a fastener, wherein the hole has a central axis and the hole is delimited by the deformable material which forms the deformable body, wherein the body comprises a deformable protruding ring which surrounds the hole and protrudes in the direction of the central axis and a projection which surrounds the hole and is arranged at a distance from the protruding the ring in a direction perpendicular to the central axis, and the ring protrudes beyond the projection in the direction of the central axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: A. Raymond et Cie
    Inventors: Ingo Hauser, Axel Rhein, Davide Meola
  • Patent number: 10767684
    Abstract: A mounting device for covering a roof penetration in a roof includes a base having a central hub, an outer perimeter structure, a top which is open, a bottom which is open, and ribs extending from the hub outward to the perimeter structure. A continuous internal reservoir extends between the hub and the perimeter structure, for holding a sealant against and in cooperation with the roof. The reservoir unsevered by the ribs. A cap is moveable onto the base for forming, in cooperation with the perimeter structure, an environmental seal over the roof penetration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: Solsera, Inc.
    Inventors: Shawn J. Meine, Carolyn D. Kitchel
  • Patent number: 10344788
    Abstract: A device for anchoring at least one fastening element in a laminate structure having at least two layers comprises a fastening element, and a carrier assembly on which the fastening element is mounted. The carrier assembly is designed with a protruding rib structure which radially outwardly surrounds the fastening element, resulting in a transmission of force into the laminate structure that is conducive to long-term stability of the anchoring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: A. RAYMOND ET CIE
    Inventors: Sebastian Blum, Till Eric Ruffing, Martin Büsch, Martin Kurth, Johannes Gebhardt
  • Patent number: 9239074
    Abstract: A seal of a fastening element, having the fastening element and a washer, wherein the fastening element and the washer are arranged coaxially and axially adjacent to one another, wherein the washer has a sealing bead of a rubber-elastic sealing material on the outer circumference, and wherein the sealing bead contacts the fastening element underside in a sealing manner during the correct use of the seal. The fastening element has a flange on the underside, which axially faces the washer, wherein the a washer top side axially faces the flange, wherein the flange underside and the washer top side abut in a sealing manner during the correct use of the seal, wherein the flange underside and the washer top side are substantially congruent, and wherein the sealing bead abuts the outer circumferential boundary of the flange underside in a sealing manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Assignee: CARL FREUDENBERG KG
    Inventors: Frank Lauer, Julia Eckstein, Christian Mitschkal, Thomas Kramer
  • Patent number: 9119676
    Abstract: Various methods and devices are provided for bone screw fixation. In one exemplary embodiment, the methods and devices provide a bone fixation device that includes a receiving head having a recess adapted to seat a spinal rod therein and a shank extending distally from the receiving head. An anti-rotation mechanism can be located distal of a distal end of the receiving head and around a proximal portion of the shank, and it can be configured to interact with bone to prevent rotation of at least a portion of the bone fixation device relative to the bone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: DePuy Synthes Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Erin Daly, Charles M. Bartish, Jr., Jonathan Fanger, SeungKyu Daniel Kwak, Andrew E. Medeiros
  • Patent number: 9091179
    Abstract: A variable geometry turbine has a housing for receipt of the turbine wheel. A gas flow control mechanism in the housing upstream of said turbine wheel is operable to control gas flow through a gas flow inlet passage. The control mechanism has a movable nozzle ring or shroud for varying the size of the gas flow inlet passage. A transmission mechanism for connection between an actuator and the control mechanism converts movement applied by the actuator into movement shroud or nozzle ring. The transmission mechanism comprises a yoke having a shaft that is rotatably supported by a wall of the housing. The yoke defines arms that extend outwardly of the shaft and which engage with the shroud or nozzle ring. There is provided at least one recess defined in an inside surface of the housing, the recess extending from shaft rotation axis and configured to allow passage of an end of the yoke shaft along it during insertion of the yoke into the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: Cummins Ltd.
    Inventors: Lee J. Robinson, Stephen Garrett
  • Patent number: 9086089
    Abstract: A screwing device includes a threaded hole that extends from an insertion opening to an end of the screwing device, which end is opposite the insertion opening. In the region of the insertion opening a first radial sealing element is arranged that by way of the insertion opening extends outwards in an axial direction of the hole. Spaced apart from the first sealing element in an axial direction of the hole a second radial sealing element is arranged in the screwing device with the internal diameter of the second radial sealing element being smaller than the external diameter of the threaded hole. In this manner a screwing device may be provided that is self-locking, exchangeable, and fluid-proof and that is suitable especially for vehicles and in particular for aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Gerd Stahl, Frank Moeller
  • Patent number: 8997336
    Abstract: A bonding device electrically bonds metallic surfaces through serrated metal teeth which embed into each metal surface as a fastener is tightened. A sealing material circumferentially outward and inward from the teeth create an air-tight and water-tight seal around the teeth, protecting the bonding location. The device can have an extended central collar extending axially from the through-hole in the center of the device, which will allow it to be installed in holes, or on a stud without the use of adhesives or other retaining methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Renewable Energy Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Strizki, Jason Snyder, James Strizki
  • Publication number: 20150023764
    Abstract: A seal of a fastening element, having the fastening element and a washer, wherein the fastening element and the washer are arranged coaxially and axially adjacent to one another, wherein the washer has a sealing bead of a rubber-elastic sealing material on the outer circumference, and wherein the sealing bead contacts the fastening element underside in a sealing manner during the correct use of the seal. The fastening element has a flange on the underside, which axially faces the washer, wherein the a washer top side axially faces the flange, wherein the flange underside and the washer top side abut in a sealing manner during the correct use of the seal, wherein the flange underside and the washer top side are substantially congruent, and wherein the sealing bead abuts the outer circumferential boundary of the flange underside in a sealing manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: CARL FREUDENBERG KG
    Inventors: Frank Lauer, Julia Eckstein, Christian Mitschkal, Thomas Kramer
  • Patent number: 8931989
    Abstract: A self-sealing attachment assembly, includes a base portion defining a receptacle having an opening at one end and a surface with a through-hole at an opposite end, a sealant material in the receptacle, and a cover secured to the base portion and enclosing the opening, wherein the cover is configured to receive a driving force from a fastener and dispenses the sealant material via the through-hole by displacement through the receptacle when actuated by the driving force. A method is disclosed for installing a building material to a framing that includes mounting a self-sealing attachment assembly onto a fastening member and driving the fastening member through the sealing assembly and the building material toward the framing to dispense a sealant material to seal the penetration hole formed by the fastening member in the building material to form a watertight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Inventor: Greg Stephan
  • Patent number: 8926247
    Abstract: A washer assembly is configured to isolate a work-piece from a fastener and/or another structure. The washer assembly includes a rubber isolator having at least one protuberance configured to directly contact a surface of the work-piece, and a metal strengthening member permanently secured to the rubber isolator. The protuberance(s) is configured to be compressed during a normal operating condition. The metal strengthening member is configured to be compressed during a peak operating condition in which greater force is exerted into the washer assembly than during the normal operating condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Robert R. Schaser, Jason D. Holt
  • Patent number: 8777538
    Abstract: A bonding fastener having two components which electrically bonds metallic surfaces through serrated metal teeth on the underside of the head of the first component and on the inside surface of the second component which embed into each metal surface as a fastener is tightened. In one embodiment, the fastener is a nut and bolt combination, and in another embodiment the fastener is a two-part rivet. A sealing material circumferentially outward from the teeth on both the first component and second component creates an air-tight and water-tight seal around the teeth, protecting the bonding location from air and water infiltration from the outside. The second component also has an internal seal, sealing around the shank of the first component to prevent axial infiltration of air or water along the shank and protecting the bonding locations from corrosion from contaminants entering along that route.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Renewable Energy Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Strizki, Jason Snyder, James Strizki
  • Patent number: 8708630
    Abstract: Fastener apparatus including a self-adjusting and automatically self-leveling head separate from a threaded shank portion. An embodiment self-leveling head portion defines an annular conical recess and lip portion sized to receive a seal. A threaded shank resides within an annular cup center of the self-leveling head and has a thread-free portion seated by the compressed seal creating a water tight seal. Embodiments for sheet metal screw and bolt fasteners not requiring seals are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventors: David A. W. Curtis, Marshall W. Curtis
  • Publication number: 20140068930
    Abstract: A bonding device electrically bonds metallic surfaces through serrated metal teeth which embed into each metal surface as a fastener is tightened. A sealing material circumferentially outward and inward from the teeth create an air-tight and water-tight seal around the teeth, protecting the bonding location. The device can have an extended central collar extending axially from the through-hole in the center of the device, which will allow it to be installed in holes, or on a stud without the use of adhesives or other retaining methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: Renewable Energy Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Strizki, Jason Snyder, James Strizki
  • Patent number: 8628286
    Abstract: A finishing element 1 comprises a relatively form-retaining core body 2 connected liquid-tightly to a relatively flexible rim body 4, which here extends laterally around the core body in at least substantially liquid-tight manner. The core body 2 comprises a cavity for the purpose of receiving liquid-tightly therein an at least substantially shank-like free outer end 10 of a construction element. A finishing element 1 is thus provided with which the outer end of a construction element can be finished in reliably liquid-tight manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Kedge Holding B.V.
    Inventors: Joost Cornelis Duvekot, Martin Mastenbroek
  • Patent number: 8616818
    Abstract: A gripping washer includes a washer body having first and second rigid support surfaces. A fastener hole extends between the first and second rigid support surfaces. An inner washer perimeter extends around the fastener hole. One or more elastomeric gripping tabs are coupled with the inner washer perimeter. The one or more elastomeric gripping tabs extend inwardly into the fastener hole from the inner washer perimeter. The elastomeric gripping tabs are pliable relative to the first and second rigid support surfaces of the washer body and deform and grip the washer with a fastener passed through the fastener hole. By gripping a fastener with the elastomeric gripping tabs the gripping washer is anchored to the fastener and substantially prevents decoupling of the gripping washer from the fastener prior to installation (e.g., fastening with a work piece). Gripping of the fastener with the gripping washer thereby minimizes foreign object debris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Robert D. Travis
  • Publication number: 20130300111
    Abstract: A pipe connection apparatus or assembly 10 for use in applications in, e.g., the oil and gas industry, comprises an engagement member 20 adapted to engage an end region 41 of a pipe 40 when said pipe 40 is connected to a structure, wherein the engagement member 20 comprises a composite material 60 formed of at least a matrix 61 and one or more reinforcing fibres 62 embedded within the matrix 61, and the construction of the composite material 60 of the engagement member 20 is configured to accommodate the end region 41 of the pipe 40.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Charles Alexander Tavner, Martin Peter William Jones, Richard Damon Goodman Roberts
  • Patent number: 8545155
    Abstract: The invention relates to an attachment fastener that comprises a body (1) extending in an axial direction, with a head (2), a leg (3) and a skirt-shaped flexible collar (4) provided between the head (2) and the leg (3), and annular sealing washer (5) for sealing the length of a peripheral edge (42) of the collar (4), said sealing washer (5) having a lower surface (57) directed towards the opposite side of the collar (4) having at least one annular bead defining a first sealing line on the lower surface (57) of the washer (5). The sealing washer (5) is adapted to be removably attached onto said peripheral edge (32) of the collar (4), and comprises an upper surface opposite the lower surface (57), which defines an annular shoulder protruding on the side of the collar (4) and on which bears said peripheral edge (42) of the collar (4), said annular shoulder defining another sealing line on the upper surface of the washer (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: A. Raymond et Cie
    Inventors: Sylvain Giraud, Steve Mouchet
  • Patent number: 8523503
    Abstract: A threaded joint includes a flange, a nut and a flexible seal. The flange, the nut and the flexible seal have threads respective inner surfaces, the threads having shapes complementary to threads on an outer surface of a stem. The flange is configured to allow the stem to move by rotation through the flange. The nut and the flexible seal are configured to move by rotation relative to the stem. The flange has a counter bore and the nut has a groove. The flexible seal has a first portion configured to fill the counter bore in the flange, and a second portion configured to fill the groove of the nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Nuovo Pignone, S.p.A.
    Inventors: Vinh Do, Jeffrey Raynal, Mayur Mansukh
  • Publication number: 20130177364
    Abstract: A rivet sealing washer that includes a washer body with an outer surface and an inner surface and a rivet aperture. Additionally, the rivet washer includes a membrane with at least one raised high pressure point skirt or rib and at least one recessed trough that provides a continuous seal over the outer surface of the washer body, the rivet body, and the mandrel head, and is sealably and continuously connected to the perimeter of the washer body and optionally a circumferential portion of the outer surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventors: Ronald M. Orlando, John P. Sanroma
  • Patent number: 8448407
    Abstract: An apparatus for securing a roof-mounted structure to a roof is disclosed. The apparatus comprises: a shaft extending along a longitudinal shaft axis and including a first end opposing a second end; the first end including a roof fastening portion; the second end including a drive part and an anchor portion for securing the roof-mounted structure to the shaft; and the shaft including a radially projecting shoulder surface disposed between the first and second ends and oriented toward the first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventor: Gregory M. Wiener
  • Patent number: 8398350
    Abstract: A bolt has a bolt body including a screw part, a head part formed at an upper end of the screw part, and a flange part formed at a lower end of the head part; and an unconductive ring-shaped resinous member covering a peripheral portion of the flange part. The flange part has a disk-shaped flange body portion; and a seat surface-forming portion having a seat surface which is pressed against a portion where the bolt is to be mounted. The ring-shaped member has an edge part which is located at a position nearer to a lower end of the screw part than the seat surface and outward from the flange body portion and an annular skirt part whose diameter gradually increases to the edge part. The annular skirt part is so formed that it deforms when the bolt is mounted on the portion where the bolt is to be mounted and forms an annular liquid-tight sealing portion for the portion where the bolt is to be mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Meira Corporation
    Inventors: Rikiya Ishida, Manabu Naoi
  • Publication number: 20130045064
    Abstract: An expandable washer apparatus is formed from a resilient elastomeric annular body having an opening therethrough, an upper surface, a lower surface, and an external cylindrical surface. A plurality of cavities extend around the external cylindrical surface. A plurality of cavity sidewalls are associated with the plurality of cavities, the plurality of sidewalls expanding outward to increase the external cylindrical surface circumference when pressure is applied to the upper and lower surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: MONTE CRISTO HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventor: Ralph E. Machesky
  • Patent number: 8353654
    Abstract: A metallic bolt fastener assembly that includes a threaded shank, a head and an end, the head and a portion of the shank encapsulated with a polymer composition. The polymer composition includes a polymer material such as natural rubber, synthetic rubber or thermal plastic materials. The polymer composition provides improved corrosion resistance and superior fluid sealing properties when used as a water tank-to-toilet bowl or other similar plumbing fixture connection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignees: Mansfield Plumbing Products, The Philpott Rubber Company
    Inventors: Paul D. Conrad, Stephen C. Detweiler
  • Patent number: 8272823
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a sealing arrangement for attaching a side plate often used with a pump volute of a centrifugal pump and an attachment screw used therewith. A characterizing feature of the sealing arrangement for attaching the side plate of a centrifugal pump, comprising at least a pump volute (10) and a side plate (130) with attachment screws (132) and flanges (164) of the screws (132) arranged in communication with the volute (10) or the cover of the casing, is that an annular seal (180) is arranged between the screw (132) and the volute or the cover of the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Sulzer Pumpen AG
    Inventors: Jussi Ahlroth, Jorma Lehtonen
  • Patent number: 8186921
    Abstract: Disclosed is a drain plug for an enclosure that contains a female-threaded opening. The drain plug contains a male-threaded portion and a head portion. The head portion contains a drive structure, an annular groove of substantially rectangular cross section, and a washer of substantially rectangular cross section in the groove. An outer wall of the annular groove is positioned to contact the enclosure when secured to the female-threaded opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: General Plug & Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: John David Lowman
  • Patent number: 8070848
    Abstract: An air filter mounting system includes a filter mounting element extending from an air intake, wherein the filter mounting element includes a locking plate, a filter support bolt coupled to and extending outward from the locking plate, a plurality of support legs extending from the air intake, wherein the plurality of support legs coupled to the locking plate, and a retaining nut sized to threadably engage the filter support bolt. The retaining nut includes a handle portion comprising a cavity defined therein, wherein the cavity is sized to receive at least a portion of a fastener therein, and an attachment portion including a threaded bore defined therein, wherein the attachment portion is sized to threadably receive the fastener therein, and wherein the threaded bore is substantially axially aligned with the cavity. The retaining nut includes a sealing skirt extending outward from the attachment portion and includes a flexible sealing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Ron Cosgrove
  • Patent number: 8029223
    Abstract: A screw (60) is provided, having a shaft (32) and a head (66), for fastening a component onto a substructure utilizing a tightly pressing conical sealing disk (50) against the component. The screw head (66) is configured at the bottom (64) thereof around the shaft (32) as a cone that is tapered in the direction of the top (68) of the screw head (66). The cone angle of the conical sealing disk (50) measured against a perpendicular line to the disk axis is equal to, or larger than the cone angle (alpha) of the screw head (66), which is measured against a perpendicular line to the screw axis. When the screw (60) is tightened, the conical bottom (64) of the screw head (66) and the conical top (58) of the sealing disk (50) are in mutual surface contact with each other. This maintains a sealing connection. Through the conical configuration of the bottom (64) of the screw head (66) the so-called “cupping” of the sealing disk (50) is prevented when the screw (60) is tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: SFS Intec Holding AG
    Inventor: Roland Mair
  • Patent number: 8011868
    Abstract: A fastening assembly includes a housing, a press, and a sealant material located in a chamber formed between surfaces of the housing and the press. The fastening assembly may be used to install cladding to a structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Fasten Seal Products, LLC
    Inventor: Greg Stephan
  • Patent number: 7918634
    Abstract: A metallic bolt fastener assembly that includes a threaded shank, a head and an end, the head and a portion of the shank encapsulated with a polymer composition. The polymer composition includes a polymer material such as natural rubber, synthetic rubber or thermal plastic materials. The polymer composition provides improved corrosion resistance and superior fluid sealing properties when used as a water tank-to-toilet bowl or other similar plumbing fixture connection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignees: Mansfield Plumbing Products, Philpott Rubber Company, The
    Inventors: Paul D. Conrad, Stephen C. Detweiler
  • Patent number: 7878744
    Abstract: A fibrous microencapsulated washer is provided for sealing and retaining a fastener. The fibrous microencapsulated washer includes a substrate and a coating of a microencapsulated material on the substrate. The fibrous microencapsulated washer includes an aperture extending therethrough to receive a fastener, whereby a radial installation of the fastener causes the microencapsulated material to react on the substrate to form a seal and to adhesively secure the fastener to a workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: ND Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald F. Snow, Raymond G. Batura
  • Patent number: 7850410
    Abstract: Fastener apparatus including a self-adjusting and automatically self-leveling head separate from a threaded shank portion. An embodiment of the apparatus provides a self-leveling head portion defining an annular conical recess and lip portion sized to receive a seal. A threaded shank resides within an annular cup center of the self-leveling head and has a thread-free portion seated by the compressed seal creating a water tight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventor: David Anthony Wayne Curtis
  • Patent number: 7827758
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device and method to maintain the integrity of a vapor barrier for use with concrete slab on grade construction. In accordance with the present invention an apparatus to repair a punctured concrete slab vapor barrier includes a substantially planar concrete slab vapor barrier patch having a resealable aperture to receive a removable, substantially upright support. The patch is secured to the existing vapor barrier and the concrete is poured and substantially set. The support is removed and the malleable concrete flows, causing the engagement of the resealable aperture, thereby repairing the punctured vapor barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Bauer
  • Patent number: 7818940
    Abstract: A sealing element (11) for sealing fastening element holes in water-impermeable sealing layers of a structure has a cap-shaped receiving space (21) for receiving curable compound exiting from the borehole and extending between a contact area (18) provided for contacting the water-impermeable sealing layer, and a flange area (19) spaced from the latter, with the outer diameter (C) of the receiving space (21) at the contact area (18) corresponding to from two-times to six-times the inner diameter (D) of a through-opening (12) which is formed in the flange area (19) and is surrounded by springing blades (15) projecting into the through-opening (12) for a clamping engagement with the fastening element (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Armin Herb
  • Patent number: 7811039
    Abstract: A screw loosening prevention structure and a gas-pressure device are provided. The structure includes a first member that is formed with a container space filled with gas, and includes a first threaded portion, a second member that includes a second threaded portion, wherein the second member is threadedly coupled with the first member by threadedly engaging the second threaded portion with the first threaded portion, and receives a pressure from the gas in the container space of the first member, and a spring member provided between the first and second members in a deformed state in which the displacement of the spring member is greater than a relative displacement of the first and second members due to a loosening factor including the gas pressure that is received by this second member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Kawasaki Precision Machinery
    Inventors: Kaoru Nomichi, Makoto Ninomiya, Yutaka Suzuki, Hiroshi Ito
  • Patent number: 7802955
    Abstract: A dowel for insertion into an opening (12) of a wall (14), in particular on a vehicle body, has a shank section (16) which extends through the opening (12) in an inserted state and a flange (18) adjoined thereto and made of a first material component, and a sealing section (20) made of a second material component. The second material component is a plastic material which expands at an elevated temperature and tightly closes the opening (12) in the expanded state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: TRW Automotive Electronics & Components GmbH
    Inventor: Stefan Jatzke
  • Patent number: 7753633
    Abstract: A power seal bolt assembly includes a bolt having a head and a shaft having an unthreaded shaft portion and a threaded portion. A washer is fixed to the bolt proximate to the head. A compressible washer retainer frictionally engages the unthreaded shaft portion and contacts the head. The compressible washer retainer includes a retainer portion having flexible legs extending inwardly into a washer retainer through aperture. The flexible legs flex to frictionally engage the retainer portion to the unthreaded shaft portion. A compressible washer portion homogenously connected to the retainer portion is oriented to contact the washer when a bolt torque is applied. The compressible washer portion includes at least one raised ring contacting the washer to create a fluid seal at the washer; and at least one partial cavity permitting the compression washer portion to axially compress upon application of the torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Newfrey LLC
    Inventor: Raymond M. Genick, II
  • Patent number: 7740433
    Abstract: A waterproof structure for a tightening section where a first member (1) having a screw hole (1a) with a bottom and a second member (2) having a screw insertion hole (2a) are fastened with a screw (4) that is inserted into the screw insertion hole (2a) and screwed to the screw hole (1a). The screw (4) is a flat head screw, and an annular groove (3b) is formed in the outer surface of a spacer (3) having an insertion hole where recessed circular conical surface (3a) is formed. The spacer (3) is fitted in the screw insertion hole (2a) to be in surface contact with a circular conical surface of a head of the flat head screw. The annular groove (3b) is coaxial with the recessed circular conical surface (3a).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Kenwood
    Inventors: Sachiyo Miyoshi, Kiyoshi Naito
  • Publication number: 20100143076
    Abstract: A metal annular gasket comprising an annular metal base plate; a compound layer integrally laminated on both surfaces of the annular metal base plate, the compound layer being made of synthetic resin or a rubber material mixed with a fiber material; and an annular seal layer having a circumferential covering portion which covers the inner circumferential edge of the annular metal plate and the inner circumferential edge of both compound layers, the compound layer being made of synthetic resin or a rubber material. The annular seal layer is formed such that the surface of the annular seal layer is so connected to the surfaces of the compound layer as to provide smooth transition in its thickness direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicant: Uchiyama Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventors: Kenji Matsumoto, Kazuhiro Takahashi
  • Publication number: 20100143074
    Abstract: A composite member 12, which is formed by integrating an OCV housing 14 and a cylinder head cover 13, is fixed to a cam cap 15 by a bolt 20. The bolt 20 is passed through a bolt insertion hole 16 of the composite member 12 and fastened to the cam cap 15. A step portion 20d is formed in a shank 20c between a head 20a and a threaded rod 20b of the bolt 20. A circumferential groove 21 is formed in the shank 20c between the step portion 20d and the head 20a of the bolt 20. The circumferential groove 21 extends along the outer circumferential surface of the shank 20c. An annular sealing member 22 is fitted in the groove 21. The threaded rod 20b of the bolt 20 is then screwed into the internal thread 19 of the cam cap 15, which is a coupled member. At this time, the step portion 20d of the bolt 20 contacts a contacting portion 16c in the bolt insertion hole 16 of the OCV housing 14. Also, the sealing member 22 contacts the inner circumferential surface of the bolt insertion hole 16 of the cylinder head cover 13.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2009
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicants: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHA, TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yoshiaki SUMIYA, Hirotsugu KOJIMA, Kazuya YOSHIJIMA, Takahiro YAMAZAKI
  • Patent number: 7686554
    Abstract: In order to produce a combination of a screw member comprising a screw head, a threaded portion and a shank portion which is arranged between the screw head and the threaded portion and has an external diameter that is smaller than the external diameter of the threaded portion, a washer incorporating a passage opening the diameter of which is smaller than the external diameter of the threaded portion, and a sleeve the internal diameter of which is greater than the external diameter of the threaded portion, whereby said combination can be produced in a simple manner but nevertheless ensures that the sleeve and the washer are held securely on the screw member, it is proposed that the sleeve have at least one projection which engages in a recess provided in the washer, wherein the sleeve is pressed against the washer in such a manner that the sleeve and the washer are connected together and held captive on the screw member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Elringklinger AG
    Inventors: Erich Amann, Peter Böhringer
  • Publication number: 20100068004
    Abstract: A screw (60) is provided, having a shaft (32) and a head (66), for fastening a component onto a substructure utilizing a tightly pressing conical sealing disk (50) against the component. The screw head (66) is configured at the bottom (64) thereof around the shaft (32) as a cone that is tapered in the direction of the top (68) of the screw head (66). The cone angle of the conical sealing disk (50) measured against a perpendicular line to the disk axis is equal to, or larger than the cone angle (alpha) of the screw head (66), which is measured against a perpendicular line to the screw axis. When the screw (60) is tightened, the conical bottom (64) of the screw head (66) and the conical top (58) of the sealing disk (50) are in mutual surface contact with each other. This maintains a sealing connection. Through the conical configuration of the bottom (64) of the screw head (66) the so-called “cupping” of the sealing disk (50) is prevented when the screw (60) is tightened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: SFS INTEC HOLDING AG
    Inventor: Roland Mair
  • Publication number: 20100021268
    Abstract: A washer comprises a ring and a composite structure attached to the ring. The composite structure has a slotted shape and a hole that is centrally located with respect to an axis passing through the ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas A. Dean, John George Kladouris
  • Publication number: 20100014943
    Abstract: A fastening assembly includes a housing, a press, and a sealant material located in a chamber formed between surfaces of the housing and the press. The fastening assembly may be used to install cladding to a structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Greg STEPHAN
  • Patent number: 7631519
    Abstract: An inner seal ring 16 is composed by connecting a plurality of inner seal ring pieces 16A, an outer seal ring 17 is composed by connecting a plurality of outer seal ring pieces 17A provided at an outer periphery of the inner seal ring 16, and a coil spring 18 is arranged at an outer periphery of the outer seal ring 17. The inner seal ring 16 and the outer seal ring 17 are piled for two or more stages, respectively. A connecting part of the inner seal ring pieces 16A and a connecting part of the outer seal ring pieces 17 are arranged not to overlap each other. An inner diameter of the inner seal ring 16 is variable in accordance with an outer diameter in vertical direction of a drawing-preform 1 by using a coil spring 18.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Hitachi Cable, Ltd.
    Inventor: Mitsuhiro Shiono