Abstract: A coupling system for maintaining an end of a tube in substantially sealed alignment within an aperture in a wall, in which the tube is held by a clamp member affixable to the wall adjacent the aperture. A tube end is provided which is formed by a first tube tip member and a second tube tip member which fits concentrically around the first tube tip member. The second tube tip member has a wall thickness substantially less than that of the first tube tip member, and has a radially outwardly projecting annular bead formed thereon. The first tube tip member and the second tube tip member are affixed to each other, but limited axial movement of a portion of the first tube tip member relative to a portion of the second tube tip member is permitted.

Abstract: A flexible connector for connecting adjacent ends of substantially successive pipes in an exhaust system. An input coupler and an output coupler have at least one articulated joint arranged between them. A flexible tubular bellows substantially surrounds at least part of the input and output couplers, as well as the at least one articulated joint. A flexible closure member substantially surrounds the bellows to protect it from external forces.

Abstract: A system for integrating air injection and exhaust gas recirculation in the internal combustion engines of vehicles, such as in a contemporary automobile or truck. The integration system includes conduit members connecting a source of pressurized ambient air with the exhaust system of the engine, to supply the ambient air into the exhaust system during deceleration. A flow control member prevents the flow of the exhaust gases backward along the conduit members toward the pressurized air source, during acceleration or cruising to promote flow of the exhaust gases through the EGR valve and into the intake system of the engine.

Abstract: A clamp system for maintaining an end of a high temperature fluid bearing tube in substantially sealing engagement with a surface and in substantial alignment with an aperture in the surface positioned substantially transverse to the tube. A bracket member is provided to hold the end of the tube against the surface. An annular flange is provided on the end of the tube, to form the seal and provide a surface against which the bracket member pushes. The annular flange is advantageously configured so as to position the seal radially away from the tube so as to reduce transmission of heat from the fluid within the tube to the seal, to, in turn, protect the material of the mating surfaces from heat degradation.

Abstract: A thermal isolation coupling system for attaching a high-temperature fluid-bearing tube to an aperture in a housing, in which a separate low temperature flow is established. Locking means attaches the tube end to the housing, in a particular desired position relative to the aperture. A tube support member connects the tube end to the locking means and facilitates positioning of the extreme tip of the tube end in the low temperature flow, in substantially non-heat conducting isolation from the aperture and the housing.

Abstract: A vibration isolating clamp apparatus for maintaining an end of a tube in sealing abutment with a surface, in substantial alignment with an aperture disposed in the surface, suitable for use in extreme temperature environments, wherein the tube has an outwardly-projecting, annular bead arranged substantially adjacent the portion of the tube adjacent the aperture in the surface. A retainer member is provided with a clamp attachment region and a tube retaining region. Means for enabling affixation of the clamp apparatus to the surface are disposed in the clamp attachment region. In the tube retaining region, means are provided for insertably receiving the extreme end of the tube. Bead sealing means entrap the bead between the tube retaining region and the surface. In the tube retaining region, tube isolation means limit the magnitude of transverse vibrations of the end of the tube, proximate to and beyond the bead, and away from the extreme end of the tube.

Abstract: A flexible coupler apparatus for joining successive lengths of pipe in an exhaust system for a vehicle. An inner sleeve member is concentrically received by an outer sleeve member. A substantially porous, non-sealing, vibration absorbing spacer member is arranged between the sleeve members where they overlap, to preclude direct contact between the sleeve members. The spacer member is non-sealing to preclude deterioration while minimizing interference with the reciprocation and articulation of the sleeve members. A flexible, extensible member mechanically connects the sleeve members at their distant non-overlapped ends. A closure member may be employed to protect the extensible member from damage from external elements and forces.