Patents Assigned to MDU Resources Group, Inc.
  • Patent number: 9464438
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method of installing a spacer fitting repair device on a utility support structure. The method includes removing an insulator strand from an insulator aperture of a spacer fitting, abrading a first outer surface and a second outer surface of the spacer fitting connected to the utility support structure to create roughen the first and second outer surfaces, positioning a front plate against a portion of the first outer surface, positioning a back plate against a portion of the second outer surface, and clamping the front plate and the back plate to the spacer fitting. The method may be used to repair spacer fittings for supporting utility transmission wires or cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: MDU RESOURCES GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas U. Crary, II, Jerome A. Peterson
  • Patent number: 8905364
    Abstract: A reinforcement assembly for a spacer fitting for a utility pole comprising a front plate and back plate assembly having a connection aperture located at a top portion of both the front and back plates. The connection apertures may be configured to have substantially the same diameter as an insulator aperture located on the spacer fitting. The connection apertures provide an attachment area for the reinforcement assembly to be attached to the spacer fitting. The reinforcement assembly may be attached to the spacer fitting at an insulator aperture for supporting a strand of insulators and/or transmission lines. The front and back plates also may each include a receiving aperture located at a bottom portion of both plates. The receiving apertures may be used to support insulators and/or transmission wires on a transmission or utility support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: MDU Resources Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas U. Crary, II, Jerome A. Peterson