Flue With Gaseous Fluid-directing Feature Patents (Class 52/218)
  • Patent number: 5636478
    Abstract: An inflatable tent structure for single person use or multiple person use, comprising an inflatable tent and an automatically inflatable cushion placed in the tent, wherein the tent is made of two sheets of waterproof nylon PU cloths by means of cutting, adhering and sewing. At least a joint portion between two adjacent faces being is disposed with an inflating passage which can be inflated and expanded to stretch and support the tent. An inflating valve is disposed on the inflating passage and each long face of the tent is disposed with ventilating windows. The cushion is formed by an upper and a lower waterproof nylon PU cloths and a sponge layer sandwiched therebetween an inflating valve is disposed on a corner of the cushion. The cushion is adapted to be placed and secured on the bottom of the tent for a user to sit or lie thereon. The material of the tent structure is recoverable and can be burned without producing toxic gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Jhy Yih Electric Enterprise Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Ching-Cheng Chen
  • Patent number: 5630296
    Abstract: Temporary emergency structures comprising inflatable frameworks formed of ultra-high temperature resistant fabric tubing which may insulate the protected person or equipment from the ground and which serves to support a cover formed of ultra-high temperature resistant fabric cloth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Inventor: Robert T. Kendall, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5605028
    Abstract: Joints between vertical shafts such as concrete manhole elements are sealed by an elastomeric ring and a rigid locating ring. The locating ring keys into the elastomeric ring and holds it in place during and (optionally) after assembly. The principle is applied to various types of joint and the locating ring may be extended to form a liner for the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Assignee: Caswick Limited
    Inventor: Christopher J. Cawte
  • Patent number: 5595030
    Abstract: An aparatus adapted to be mounted on a sewer vent stack to inhibit frost buildup in cold weather including a supporting frame containing a central rotatable shaft with a wind turbine on the end exposed and four vanes on the end within the vent pipe. The rotation of the shaft will cause frost build up to be scraped off by the vanes. Lack of rotation in a breeze will indicate excessive build up and a possibly dangerous situation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Inventor: Calvin L. Pulscher
  • Patent number: 5579609
    Abstract: Novel structural members are provided that are flexible prior to being rigidized. The structural members are fabricated as bundles of reinforcing fibers commingled with binder materials, e.g. thermoplastic yarn, and a heat source. Means for compressing the bundle during deployment may also be provided. The structural members are rigidized by activating the heat source to melt the binder material, which flows throughout the bundle to bind the reinforcing fibers together, such that when the binder sets or hardens a rigid, reinforced structural member is provided. In preferred embodiments, these structural members are attached to an inflatable enclosure in a structural framework arrangement to form an inflatable structure. Such an inflatable structure may be rolled or folded into a compact space for storage and transport, such as into outer space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Tracor, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley T. Sallee
  • Patent number: 5570544
    Abstract: Inflatable, air supported frames may be employed to support a variety of structures, including tents. The inflatable frames are composed of one or more elongated inflatable air chambers to which are coupled plural restraints that prevent full extension of components of the frame upon inflation. The restraints cause the inflated frame to kink and form an angle at the location of the restraints. Consequently, the restraints work to define angled portions of the frame. The restraints may be adjusted to alter the configuration of the frame. As a result, one can stabilize the structure on uneven terrain or to cause the frame to assume multiple conformations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Inventors: Gary A. Hale, Troy A. Hale
  • Patent number: 5560166
    Abstract: An expansion joint for protectively shielding a seal member disposed in a joint between two flue sections, includes a first shield member having a foot for attachment to an end of a first flue section, the shield member having a curved panel portion for extending over and protectively shielding a seal member, and a second shield member having a foot for attachment to an end of a second flue section, the second shield member having a curved panel portion for extending over a portion of the first shield and along the direction of gas flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Assignee: Foster Wheeler Energia Oy
    Inventors: James Burke, F. Edward Linck
  • Patent number: 5555679
    Abstract: An inflatable device for use as a bar, carnival stand, exposition stall or the like. The bar is comprised of bar segments, canopy and roof tubes for canopy supports, the segments and tubes having fluid communication therebetween, and the tubes in fluid communication with one another. A durable counter rests upon interior walls positioned transversely in the segments to form a countertop of the bar. The device is inflated by an electric fan or blower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Inventor: Robert Scherba
  • Patent number: 5526610
    Abstract: A multi-lobed, double-wall inflatable vault includes a plurality of distinct, inflatable hollow beams. Each beam is formed by a single continuous envelope and has four zones including two lateral zones defining webs of the beam and upper and lower zones defining flanges of the beams. The beams are arranged side by side contiguously. Respective confronting webs of two adjacent beams are held opposite each other by respective continuous longitudinal flaps that can be joined by mechanical linking structure. Each flap has a T-shaped transverse cross-sectional configuration including two lateral flanges fastened to the envelope of the respective beam and a central tongue to be linked by the linking structure to the tongue of the flap of the adjacent beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Assignee: Societe Civile Spironef
    Inventor: Guy Delamare
  • Patent number: 5502927
    Abstract: A portable, inflatable tent has a semi-cylindrical cover portion that fastens to a planar base portion. The cover portion is provided with rib air-passageways that, when inflated, support the cover portion in its semi-cylindrical configuration. Various configurations of the rib air-passageways connecting to edge air-passageways provided with air inflation valves are described. Generally, the rib air-passageways are segregated into two groups, so that the failure of a single rib air-passageway will not cause the deflation of all of the rib air-passageways. The inflation valve(s) are preferably disposed on a surface of the cover portion that will be interior the erected tent, so that the user may reinflate the tent without exiting the tent. The tent is sized and shaped so as to provide convenient, weatherproof, portable shelter for a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Inventor: Dennis R. Hammerton
  • Patent number: 5493820
    Abstract: A duct system contains a narrow, liquid tight conduit filled with cold water which can be used to prevent fires in the ducts of chimneys, high rise buildings, restaurants and the like. If a fire starts in a duct, the wall of the duct heats up very slowly because of its proximity to the thin walled conduit containing the cold water (which gets warmer as the fire builds momentum). If the fire persists and the heat of the outer wall rises to a designated temperature (e.g. 200 degrees Fahrenheit), a valve opens and the heated water (the originally cold water) is flushed out and fresh cold water is brought in, further impeding the fire's progress. The fire will likely burn itself out without ever igniting any combustibles outside the duct walls. The flushed out water can be sprayed onto the roof of the building to prevent any burning fly ash from starting a fire on the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Inventor: Michael A. Joseph
  • Patent number: 5454197
    Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus, for mounting a combined roof plumbing vent, and a safety stanchion element, on a roof with its roof covering, the elements having a mounting bracket, in conjunction with the roof beam element, being formed by fixedly connecting with a least one roof beam or rafter element, a substantially vertical tubular element, and having a fixably attached in a known manner, a roof covering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Inventor: Francis J. Horrigan
  • Patent number: 5423152
    Abstract: Large size cast monolithic refractory repair modules which may be used to replace existing silica bricks within a coke oven heating wall. The modules are formed from a castable refractory mix having very high dimensional stability over a wide range of temperatures. Each of the modules is a rectangular parallelepiped having one or more vertically extending flues formed therein, one end of a module being adapted to conform to the end shape of the damaged heating wall, the other end of the module being adapted to interfit with existing brickwork. The modules are assembled by initially removing damaged brickwork from the heating wall and then placing in the new modules of this invention which are mortared in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Assignee: Tonawanda Coke Corporation
    Inventor: Robert E. Kolvek
  • Patent number: 5421128
    Abstract: A curved, inflated, tubular beam consists of braided fibers and axial fibers on an elastomeric barrier. The construction can be accomplished on a short, straight mandrel. The curvature along the beam can be varied to suit the design needs. The angle of the braid in the bias fibers determines the inflated curvature when axial fibers situated within the braid along the inside of the curvature constrain the elongation on the inside of the curvature. The curved shape can be reinforced by having tape cemented to the outside of the inflated tube. While very small and very large tubes can be perfected for a range of inflation pressures and beam strengths, the preferred embodiment is a 12 3/4-inch diameter tube, 60 feet long forming an arch for a tent 30 feet wide and 24 feet high.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Inventors: Garrett C. Sharpless, Glen J. Brown
  • Patent number: 5383316
    Abstract: An expansion joint and flexible seal for refractory lined flues includes a baffle system in combination with a filter element and an air purge system for preventing egress of flue particulates. The baffle system is slideably positionable to accommodate relative lateral displacement of the flues.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Assignee: Pyropower Corporation
    Inventors: James Burke, Ed Linck
  • Patent number: 5365703
    Abstract: A water, fire and heat proof roof is provided and consists of a tar holder affixed about an inner surface of a parapet, so that a lower portion of the tar holder will overlap and cover curved ends of an upper layer of polymer roof covering material to help keep the roof water proof, heat proof, fire proof and cool. A water sprinkler system is also utilized to prevent a fire and reduce heat on the roof to keep it cool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Inventor: Bernard Zeidler
  • Patent number: 5311706
    Abstract: An inflatable truss frame member for use in the frame of a large inflatable device such as a ship or satellite decoy. A first embodiment, developed for use in satellite decoys, comprises three main inflatable tubes separated by shear load carrying interlacing inflatable tubes. The first embodiment may be manufactured by laminating two MYLAR sheets together using a triangular pattern of adhesive print to form a series of inflatable tubes. Excess material is removed from between the tubes and the edges of the MYLAR are bonded together forming a cylinder to complete the inflatable truss frame member. A second embodiment, developed for the heavier shear loading of ship decoys, comprises three main inflatable tubes separated by a shear load carrying web. The second embodiment may be manufactured by bonding an inner and outer tube made of MYLAR along arcuately spaced strips. The bonded MYLAR forms the separating web and unbonded MYLAR forms three inflatable tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1994
    Assignee: Tracor Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley Sallee
  • Patent number: 5309684
    Abstract: A dry storage unit for use in storing vehicles or other equipment for long periods of time, capable of being easily deployed and redeployed and enabling the vehicle or equipment to be readily placed into and taken out of storage. The storage unit includes a tubular member made of flexible material. The desired shape is imparted to the unit by semi-rigid support members which are kept in the proper orientation by a connection made up of two cylindrical sections placed one within the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Inventor: Shmuel Davidovici
  • Patent number: 5305561
    Abstract: A floating inflatable structure is used to house a vessel for repair while it is afloat. The structure has inflatable walls containing water ballast. The height of the structure above the water can be adjusted by either introducing or expelling water ballast from the foot of the walls. Alternatively, a separate water ballast tube may be provided, the height of which can be adjusted relative to the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Inventor: David L. Goddard
  • Patent number: 5303516
    Abstract: A vault is of the multi-lobed double-wall type, including inflatable beams disposed side by side. The vault includes at least one opening-out or folding-up path along which the beams are slidably mounted. Each opening-out or folding-up path traverses the beams in a sealed manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Assignee: Spironef Industries
    Inventor: Guy R. Delamare
  • Patent number: 5291706
    Abstract: Modular chimney components are arranged for interengaging relative to one another, wherein each component includes a base member having a support plate receiving four inner flanges at four corners of the support plate, with second outer flanges projecting upwardly of the inner flanges to mount a continuous mesh fence thereabout, wherein the mesh fence is arranged to receive a mortar layer thereon to an interior surface thereof, with the mortar layer projecting through the mesh fence securing a matrix of work plates continuously to an exterior surface of the fence. The modular components are arranged for interengagement relative to one another to provide for a chimney covering arrangement about a flue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Inventors: Jack M. Beardsley, Kendall L. Beardsley, Craig M. Beardsley
  • Patent number: 5269623
    Abstract: A sight barrier or screen is disclosed herein for temporarily obstructing oncoming motorists' view from accident scenes which includes an elongated screen or shield having a stowed position deployable into an operative position by inflation of tubular or conduit members. A main or base conduit is included having outwardly projected leg members for supporting the screen or shield in the operative position and further having upwardly projecting stanchions in spaced-apart relationship supporting a plurality of sight barriers therebetween. A source of pressurized gas is operably connected to the main base conduit for rapid deployment of the shield into its operative position and ground engaging or retention devices are included for holding the shield in place at the accident site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Inventor: James L. Hanson
  • Patent number: 5263290
    Abstract: A modular assembly applicable to building constructions combines fire-safety sprinkler system piping, heating and cooling system heat exchangers, and lighting system fixtures and communication system wiring into an integrated unit installation. A channel which defines an enclosed duct for the passage of air is mounted in association with sprinkler system piping while a condensate pan is mounted in association with heating and cooling system heat exchangers. An air diffuser is positioned vertically between the channel and pan to direct environmental and make-up air about the heat exchangers for conditioning and a lighting fixture is positioned below the condensate pan. The channel, pan, and lighting fixture are all in standardized lengths and are maintained in a vertical alignment below the sprinkler system piping by a plurality of brackets, straps, and fasteners, various of the brackets being mounted over the channel and piping while others are mounted below the pan and lighting fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventor: Ernest A. Gardner
  • Patent number: 5253455
    Abstract: A fire damper for impeding the spread of fire from the burning of plastic pipes inside a wall or floor structure. The fire damper is installed adjacent to only one side of an opening where the pipe penetrates the structure so that the damper can be added as a retrofit without disturbing the pipe. The damper comprises a base which can be easily mounted on a two by four or similar structural member, a disk-like gate, and a torsion spring. The gate is slightly larger in area than the opening for the pipe. The coil of the spring acts as a hinge connection between the gate and the base. One arm of the spring is fixed to the gate. The free end of the torsion spring is activated by rotating the gate toward the base and then pressing the base against the plastic pipe before securing the base permanently in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1993
    Inventor: Jeffery M. Cross
  • Patent number: 5254039
    Abstract: An improved playground construction is provided and consists of inflatable dome-shaped ribs placed one next to each other on a layer of padding on a hard ground surface of a playing field. Filler material is placed between the tops of the ribs with a strip of artificial grass placed over the filler material and the tops of the ribs. A mechanism conveys compressed air into the ribs, so that they will inflate to help cushion the fall of players and reduce injury, while giving more spring and bounce to the strip of artificial grass for running players. Air exhaust tubes extend upwardly from an apex of the inflatable dome-shaped ribs and through the strip of artificial grass to allow air to exit therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1993
    Inventor: Juan Garcia
  • Patent number: 5205086
    Abstract: A tent has a flexible canopy, a floor and a series of inflatable tubes serving as frame hoops. The tubes are fastened removably to the tent using sleeves that open along a longitudinal slit and hook and loop pile fastener closures for closing the sleeves on the tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Inventor: Daniel G. Heim
  • Patent number: 5168862
    Abstract: A clay throat with a smooth inner surface is provided for a brick fireplace, and a template and process are described for cutting clay flue liners into selected portions for assembly and joining into the configuration of the clay fireplace throat at the site of the fireplace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1992
    Assignee: McGee Brothers Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald R. McGee
  • Patent number: 5168674
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the construction of prefabricated vacuum panels for the building of residential, commercial or industrial structures offering an extremely high insulating quality comprising; A method is disclosed whereby, a first single prefabricated constructed panel 52, containing a single interior cavity 32, can be joined and integrated to a first second prefabricated constructed panel 52, containing a single interior cavity 32, by utilizing the plurality of male protrusions 44 within the left side edge 26 of the first single contructed panel 52, penetrating and mating with the right side edge 24 of the first second panel 52 containing a plurality of female openings 36, recessed grooves 38 and gasket material 40.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1992
    Inventor: Robert M. Molthen
  • Patent number: 5125198
    Abstract: A dual fitting chimney cap adapted to be connected to chimney stacks of differing sizes, the chimney cap including a cylindrical housing having an upper housing portion formed with a plurality of apertures, and a lower housing portion for attachment to an upper open end of a chimney stack of conforming cylindrical contour, the lower housing portion having a cylindrical cross-section of a presecribed diameter, and an annular transition portion integrally interposed between and interconnecting the upper and lower housing portions, the annular transition portion including a first annular region and a second annular region integral with and interconnected to the first annular region, the first annular region having a prescribed diameter larger in dimension than the diameter of the second annular region and also larger in dimension than the diameter of the lower housing portion, the second annular region having a prescribed diameter smaller in dimension than the diameter of the lower housing portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Inventors: Fredric Giumenta, Frank Giumenta
  • Patent number: 5099630
    Abstract: Brick building components made by splitting a whole brick having suitable slots, the split bricks being provided with slots into which reinforcement means can be fitted. A greatly increased tensile strength, both vertically and horizontally, is obtained, providing sufficient strength for manufacturing transportable, prefabricated components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Assignee: Mats Johan Jungholm
    Inventor: Ake G. Bolmgren
  • Patent number: 5094050
    Abstract: A chimney cap and flue damper supported for vertical movement on the upper end of a chimney liner with an operating cable extending downwardly to the fireplace opening to effect opening and closing movement of a hollow insulation filled sheet metal closure member. The cap is supported by a support assembly having a plurality of radially expandable turnbuckles which are anchored in sockets formed in the chimney liner. The operating cable is provided with a removable weight which is sufficient to overcome a spring which holds the closure member in open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1992
    Inventor: James H. Jenkins
  • Patent number: 5067291
    Abstract: The pass-through roof pipe seal system includes an adapter in the form of an inverted funnel with a vertical upper tube and integral lower flared skirt defining a central cavity through which a coolant pipe from a roof air-conditioning unit or the like passes. The pipe has an external layer of insulation around it except for a cut-away portion in the area of the funnel tube, which tube adheres directly and sealingly to the coolant pipe itself to prevent moisture from penetrating the system. The funnel skirt flares out over the lower edge of the cut-away portion of the invention and thus protects it from moisture and also overlies an inverted funnel-shaped vent cup having an upper vertical tube and lower skirt. The vent cup tube is adhered to the outside of the insulation layer around the coolant pipe below the adapter and is protected by the adapter skirt. The vent cup overlies the roof hole of a building upon which an air-conditioning unit is installed and prevents moisture from entering the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1991
    Inventor: Laurence P. Evensen
  • Patent number: 5044579
    Abstract: The application of technically sensitive devices in outer space requires adequate protective shields or protective chambers which protect the payload against atmospheric radiation, thermal effects etc.The foldable structure according to the invention consists of a topological arrangement of flexible tubes which are joined to each other and form the skeleton of the shield or of the chamber. To these tubes there are attached membranes which serve as protective walls.The method of manufacturing a finished protective device uses such a foldable structure, whereby the structure is unfolded by inflation of the tubes and assumes the desired two-dimensional or three-dimensional form. The membranes are also stretched by the extension of the tubes and the interaction of the membranes and the tubes, such tubes acting as struts in the inflated condition, produces a stable structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Assignee: Oerlikon-Contraves, AG
    Inventors: Marco C. Bernasconi, Karl Kotacka
  • Patent number: 5009047
    Abstract: A mold is provided for use in forming a chimney crown on the top of a chimney shell. The mold includes four side sections and four corner sections which are assembled together to form a complete unit. Each side section and each corner section has a base for contacting a top surface of the chimney shell and a band extending downwardly from the base for contacting an outer side surface of the chimney shell. Since part of this base extends outwardly beyond the chimney shell, the chimney crown overhangs the chimney shell preferably in a cantilever manner. Each side section of the mold also has an upper leg and a lower leg extending from the base at the outer end thereof. A hook trough extends inwardly from the upper leg into the chimney crown for anchoring the mold and for carrying water to drainage holes in the corner sections of the mold. A rope may be disposed in the hook trough to act as a wick for drawing excess moisture from the chimney crown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1991
    Inventor: Michael Olding
  • Patent number: 5007212
    Abstract: A temporary shelter having an inflatable, tubular base frame with inflatable, tubular wall support ribs fixedly attached thereto, the ribs converging to near an apex of the shelter. Flexible, water-resistant wall portions are fixedly attached to the tubular base and wall support ribs. The base frame, wall support ribs and wall covering form a domed structure when the base frame and support ribs are inflated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1991
    Inventors: Monty Fritts, Darren J. Myers
  • Patent number: 4979343
    Abstract: This patent covers a chimney in prefabricated modular elements, normally but not exclusively to be built outside buildings.The flue stack consists of two modular prefabricated elements (A,B) to be assembled by progressive raising. The first element (A) is consisting of an outer covering pipe (1) usually having a square cross section, an intermediate pipe (2) usually having a circular cross section and an internal liner (4) usually having a circular cross section, all pipes being rectilinear and interconnected by stirrups, while the hollow space between outer (1) and intermediate pipe (2) is filled with insulating material (3). The second element (B) has normally a shorter length than the first and consists of an outer envelope (pipe) (1), an intermediate pipe (2), both rectilinear, while the internal pipe (4) has a bend or branch at its lower end for connection to the exhaust of the various users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 25, 1990
    Inventor: Luciano Baccelliere
  • Patent number: 4962621
    Abstract: A modular chimney unit includes a plurality of courses of joined bricks forming a closed shape and having a channel therethrough for receiving a section of chimney flue liner. Modular units of the invention are stacked vertically and joined, with the channels in vertical alignment, until the required chimney height is reached. A method of constructing a chimney using modular units is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1990
    Inventor: Michael A. Pura
  • Patent number: 4878326
    Abstract: This invention is a flue liner collar designed to secure liners within a masonry chimney. It further comprises a liner interlock comprised of two interconnected metallic bands of identical configuration forming an expansible and contractible collar for the sides of two stacked chimney liners and said bands having inwardly extending flanges for seating the ends of said adjacent liners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1989
    Inventor: Thomas J. Sass
  • Patent number: 4821473
    Abstract: A chimney by-pass is disclosed for use with a main chimney. In case of a chimney fire, a movable damper closes off the main chimney, substantially reducing the severity of the chimney fire. The movable damper also opens an auxiliary chimney, allowing smoke to exit, uninterrupted through the auxiliary chimney, and may include a fan to assist the exit of smoke into the atmosphere. The movable damper may be actuated manually or automatically in case of a chimney fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1989
    Inventor: Ernest E. Cowell
  • Patent number: 4805591
    Abstract: Fifteen prefabricated refractory concrete blocks, consisting of ten different sizes and/or shapes assemble to provide a replacement firebox of U-shape with facing side walls joined by a rear wall. In one embodiment a metal lintel is disposed at the front upper boundary of the structure produced from the fifteen blocks, the lintel resting on the side walls bridging the opening therebetween and defining the upper boundary of the hearth opening. A masonry transition cone is erected atop the side walls and lintel. In a second embodiment, trapezoidal sheet metal panels are assembled to form a transition cone above the U-shape structure. The bottom courses are produced from blocks that are in the form of oblique rectangular parallelepipeds. These are arranged so that the joints are staggered vertically. The upper portion of the rear wall below the transition cone is formed from oblique trapezoidal prismatic blocks. Certain of the blocks in addition are truncated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1989
    Inventor: Jay R. Pitha
  • Patent number: 4777871
    Abstract: A chimney tile adapter plate for securing a chimney cap, chimney flue, spark arrester, or other chimney extension member to existing chimney tile. The tile adapter plate of the present invention includes a deflector plate, with flue opening, which rests upon the top edge or lip of the chimney tile; a collar surrounding the opening and upwardly extending from the deflector plate for attachment of the chimney extension member; a flexible, elongated band secured to the undersurface of the deflector plate, preferably by slotted brackets; and a hose-type adjustable clamp engaging both ends of the band for tightening and clamping the band about the chimney tile. The band, in being flexible, is usable on chimney tile of varying shapes and, in combination with the adjustable clamp, is usable on chimney tiles of varying circumference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1988
    Assignee: Artis Metals Co., Inc.
    Inventor: David L. Stowell
  • Patent number: 4731967
    Abstract: The invention provides a chimney structure comprising a base member of fireproof material and a hollow metallic core resting on said base member enclosed in an outer shell which is spaced from the latter. The core comprises a stacked series of individual hollow stainless steel sections joined together to define a vertical flue of the required length extending upwardly from the base member having at least one opening at a desired height above the base suitable for use as a clean-out and/or appliance connection. The shell is a vertical enclosure surrounding and spaced from the core and comprises vertically stacked box-like units assembled from four calcium silicate panels each and holding blocks separating the units from each other vertically, the lowermost unit resting on the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1988
    Inventor: Stephen D. McLaughlin
  • Patent number: 4672782
    Abstract: A high, self-supporting smokestack or tower having a structure constructed by stacking precast reinforced concrete sections one upon the other, the cross-sectional area of the structure being larger at the bottom than at the top and concentrated reinforcement being provided along the length of the structure to bear the horizontal forces acting upon the smokestack or tower. The structure exhibits ribs provided with concentrated reinforcement and extending longitudinally on the outside of the structure at least along its lower portion, the radial extent of these ribs increasing from the top to the bottom at least so as to correspond essentially to the bending moment progression resulting from the horizontal stress. A mould device for producing precast reinforced concrete parts for such smokestacks or towers, in which mould sections are provided which are radially adjustable for fashioning the front surfaces of the ribs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1984
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1987
    Inventors: Georg-Gerd Richter, Alfons O. Krautz
  • Patent number: 4616457
    Abstract: A chimney is disclosed having a plurality of blocks including corner positioned ambient air downflow passageways and upflow passageways surrounding a central combustion gas conduit. Ambient air flows downwardly then upwardly around the conduit to prevent over heating in the lower portions thereof and to maintain the upper portions at a sufficiently high temperature to preclude the condensation of creosote and the like. A unique cap construction vents the combustion products and heated air through separate openings and inducts cool ambient air for the downflow conduits through a covered opening provided by a cover cap assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1986
    Assignee: KemStone Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew H. Yoder, Richard A. Rhodes
  • Patent number: 4567700
    Abstract: In its preferred embodiment, the improved frame-supported membrane has a membrane of light-gauge, corrosion resistant nickel alloy construction, this membrane being suspended within a base-supported frame. The membrane-to-frame hanger is designed for easy installation and provides for radial expansion of the membrane relative to the frame, yet restrains the membrane against implosive force and earthquake shear. For some installations, the improved frame-supported membrane may constitute the chimney without need for there being further provided a circumferentially surrounding masonry chimney column. In any event such a masonry chimney column if provided may serve primarily merely as a wind shield for the improved frame-supported membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1986
    Assignee: Rust Chimney Incorporated
    Inventor: Randolph W. Snook
  • Patent number: 4543754
    Abstract: A clip-on chimney hood comprising a substantially circular, oval, or inverted U-shaped spring integrally attached to a hood. A preferred material for the spring is a utility cable which can be formed into a loop by slipping each of the loop ends, of a length of cable, into a short metal sleeve and then welding or brazing. Either a single or double loop is attached to a hood which may be either corrugated or of flat sheet metal extending at right angles to the loop or loops. The spring loop or loops are inserted into the chimney, or a chimney liner, and frictionally held therein. The distance between the hood and top of the chimney or liner, may be easily adjusted simply by detaching a few wire fasteners at the lower edges of the hood which allows the hood edges to always rest on the chimney for added stability. Maximum hood opening accommodates coal or wood burning while minimum opening accommodates gas or oil burning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1985
    Inventor: John A. Cekala
  • Patent number: 4486984
    Abstract: This invention relates to an improved design associated with the fabrication and construction of a chimney stack or other structures of extreme height such as towers, masts, and the like, wherein precast sections are utilized having reinforcing steel members positioned therein so as to permit upon stacking of said precast sections, vertical alignment thereof such that said reinforcing steel members are positioned in vertical alignment throughout the height of the chimney so as to achieve optimum structural integrity. Additionally, the invention herein utilizes the reinforcing steel members to facilitate the movement of said precast sections of said chimney by use of threaded eye bolts which are easily detachable from the steel reinforcing members once the precast sections of said chimney have been lifted and aligned in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1984
    Inventor: John J. Carty
  • Patent number: 4478208
    Abstract: The invention contemplates a fireplace comprising a stacked plurality of courses of modular prismatic blocks laid upon a base to define a firebox region of opposed side walls and a rear wall contiguous thereto. In one embodiment the blocks are characterized by at least one horizontal surface having external horizontal channel formations and by limited vertically extending end passages such that one or more vertically serpentine continuous air-flow ducts are established through successive horizontal channels in the stacked plurality of courses of the walls. Above the firebox region, and surrounding an associated chimney region, the wall-block courses continue, providing extension of the air-flow duct system into additional heat-exchanging relation with the chimney.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 23, 1984
    Inventor: Jay R. Pitha
  • Patent number: 4391070
    Abstract: A chimney construction arrangement in which the load-bearing external trunk is built in sliding or climbing shuttering and supports platforms with support arms for accommodating the flue gas pipe or the flue gas pipes. Support elements are formed on the inner wall of the external trunk at the planned levels of the platforms. The platforms are built completely within the external trunk at ground level and raised to respective levels with lifting equipment. The platforms are connected with the support elements. The support elements may be individual brackets. A plurality of platforms may be raised as a group and individually attached to the support elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1983
    Assignee: Babcock-Bau GmbH
    Inventor: Manfred Bonnighausen
  • Patent number: 4384566
    Abstract: A prefabricated fireplace comprises a firebox and flue enclosed by concrete cast as a unit. The firebox has inner walls defining a fuel box in which combustion occurs and outer walls which define a circulation space around the fuel box for room air to be heated. The fuel box is sealed from the room by glass doors which open to supply fuel and, when closed, allow light and heat to pass, and oxygen reaches the fire through an outdoor duct. The prefabricated fireplace has around its base edges a plurality of weldplates which allow quick installation by welding to metal base plates cast in the foundation. The prefabricated fireplace may also include means to interface with home forced-air and water heating systems for heating of air and water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1980
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1983
    Inventor: Rodney I. Smith