Patents by Inventor Hermann Herrlich
Hermann Herrlich has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Publication number: 20240060592Abstract: A pipe rehabilitation system and/or robot can be used inside a pipe to measure characteristics of branch conduits, install plugs into branch conduits before the pipe is lined with a liner, remove portions of plugs and liners after lining to restore fluid communication between the pipe and branch conduits, and/or install fittings into the branch conduits to connect the liner to the branch conduits. A probe can measure characteristics of a branch conduit. A tool can install plugs and/or fittings into the branch conduits. A linkage can connect a tool to a robotic tractor so that the connected elements can navigate through a main pipe. A visualization system can aid in aligning a robot with a branch conduit. Height-adjustable braces can support robotic tools in a pipe. A plug can include integrated locating features and/or movable parts that enable expanding the plug to seal with the branch conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2023Publication date: February 22, 2024Inventors: Rick Baxter, Robert Kodadek, Hermann Herrlich, Steven McKeefrey, John Webster
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Patent number: 11828400Abstract: A pipe rehabilitation system and/or robot can be used inside a pipe to measure characteristics of branch conduits, install plugs into branch conduits before the pipe is lined with a liner, remove portions of plugs and liners after lining to restore fluid communication between the pipe and branch conduits, and/or install fittings into the branch conduits to connect the liner to the branch conduits. A probe can measure characteristics of a branch conduit. A tool can install plugs and/or fittings into the branch conduits. A linkage can connect a tool to a robotic tractor so that the connected elements can navigate through a main pipe. A visualization system can aid in aligning a robot with a branch conduit. Height-adjustable braces can support robotic tools in a pipe. A plug can include integrated locating features and/or movable parts that enable expanding the plug to seal with the branch conduit.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2022Date of Patent: November 28, 2023Assignee: INA Acquisition Corp.Inventors: Rick Baxter, Robert Kodadek, Hermann Herrlich, Steven McKeefrey, John Webster
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Patent number: 11724318Abstract: In one aspect, a bit for removing a plug from a branch conduit extending from a main pipe has a boring head at a distal end portion of a shaft configured to bore a pilot hole in the plug. A catch on the shaft is configured to pass through the pilot hole and then engage the plug after the pilot hole is bored for pushing the plug proximally. A burr proximal of the boring head is configured to remove a portion of the plug to separate a removable section from a durable section of the plug. In a method of restoring fluid communication between a main pipe and a branch conduit, the bit bores a pilot hole with the boring head, separates the removable section from the durable section with the burr, and then with the catch, withdraws the removable section only.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2021Date of Patent: August 15, 2023Assignee: INA Acquisition Corp.Inventors: Rick Baxter, Steven McKeefrey, Hermann Herrlich, Kole Kottmeier
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Publication number: 20220397224Abstract: A pipe rehabilitation system and/or robot can be used inside a pipe to measure characteristics of branch conduits, install plugs into branch conduits before the pipe is lined with a liner, remove portions of plugs and liners after lining to restore fluid communication between the pipe and branch conduits, and/or install fittings into the branch conduits to connect the liner to the branch conduits. A probe can measure characteristics of a branch conduit. A tool can install plugs and/or fittings into the branch conduits. A linkage can connect a tool to a robotic tractor so that the connected elements can navigate through a main pipe. A visualization system can aid in aligning a robot with a branch conduit. Height-adjustable braces can support robotic tools in a pipe. A plug can include integrated locating features and/or movable parts that enable expanding the plug to seal with the branch conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2022Publication date: December 15, 2022Inventors: Rick Baxter, Robert Kodadek, Hermann Herrlich, Steven McKeefrey, John Webster
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Patent number: 11391407Abstract: A pipe rehabilitation system and/or robot can be used inside a pipe to measure characteristics of branch conduits, install plugs into branch conduits before the pipe is lined with a liner, remove portions of plugs and liners after lining to restore fluid communication between the pipe and branch conduits, and/or install fittings into the branch conduits to connect the liner to the branch conduits. A probe can measure characteristics of a branch conduit. A tool can install plugs and/or fittings into the branch conduits. A linkage can connect a tool to a robotic tractor so that the connected elements can navigate through a main pipe. A visualization system can aid in aligning a robot with a branch conduit. Height-adjustable braces can support robotic tools in a pipe. A plug can include integrated locating features and/or movable parts that enable expanding the plug to seal with the branch conduit.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2019Date of Patent: July 19, 2022Assignee: INA Acquisition Corp.Inventors: Rick Baxter, Robert Kodadek, Hermann Herrlich, Steven McKeefrey, John Webster
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Patent number: 10811856Abstract: A system for servicing cable includes a plurality of jaws operable between an open position for receiving a cable in a direction transverse to a cable axis such that the cable extends axially beyond the jaws in two directions, and a closed position for engaging and rotationally fixing the cable about the cable axis. A tool arrangement is disposed proximate to the base and includes at least one tool operable to perform work on the cable when the cable is engaged by the jaws. The tool arrangement is operable to perform at least one of a rotational movement around or an axial movement along the cable axis and to operate the tool.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2016Date of Patent: October 20, 2020Assignees: ULC Robotics, Inc., Consolidated Edison Company of New YorkInventors: Alex Symington, Hermann Herrlich, George Lohr, Robert Kodadek
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Publication number: 20200173599Abstract: A pipe rehabilitation system and/or robot can be used inside a pipe to measure characteristics of branch conduits, install plugs into branch conduits before the pipe is lined with a liner, remove portions of plugs and liners after lining to restore fluid communication between the pipe and branch conduits, and/or install fittings into the branch conduits to connect the liner to the branch conduits. A probe can measure characteristics of a branch conduit. A tool can install plugs and/or fittings into the branch conduits. A linkage can connect a tool to a robotic tractor so that the connected elements can navigate through a main pipe. A visualization system can aid in aligning a robot with a branch conduit. Height-adjustable braces can support robotic tools in a pipe. A plug can include integrated locating features and/or movable parts that enable expanding the plug to seal with the branch conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 27, 2019Publication date: June 4, 2020Inventors: Rick Baxter, Robert Kodadek, Hermann Herrlich, Steven McKeefrey, John Webster, Brian Lynn, John Jayne, Ryan Goldband, Michael Hauser, George Bontus
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Patent number: 9714852Abstract: A gas flow test apparatus and method include a flow monitor that is selectively connectable to a gas pipeline. An air motor driven regenerative blower is used to increase the flow of gas through the around a blockage in the pipeline to simulate an increased gas loading condition on the intake side of the apparatus. The gas drawn from the intake side is not vented to the atmosphere, but rather, is discharged to the exhaust side of the apparatus back into the pipeline. Pipeline pressure is measured on the intake side of the apparatus to ensure that gas supply is adequate for blocking off the pipeline for maintenance.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2013Date of Patent: July 25, 2017Assignees: ULC Robotics, Inc., National Grid USA Service Co., Inc.Inventors: Ray Moore, Mike McGrade, Serafino Catapano, Robert Kodadek, III, G. Gregory Penza, Hermann Herrlich, Griffin Reames, Joseph M. Vitelli, Jr.
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Patent number: 9599571Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2014Date of Patent: March 21, 2017Assignee: ULC Robotics, Inc.Inventors: G. Gregory Penza, George Lohr, Hermann Herrlich
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Publication number: 20170012412Abstract: A system for servicing cable includes a plurality of jaws operable between an open position for receiving a cable in a direction transverse to a cable axis such that the cable extends axially beyond the jaws in two directions, and a closed position for engaging and rotationally fixing the cable about the cable axis. A tool arrangement is disposed proximate to the base and includes at least one tool operable to perform work on the cable when the cable is engaged by the jaws. The tool arrangement is operable to perform at least one of a rotational movement around or an axial movement along the cable axis and to operate the tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2016Publication date: January 12, 2017Inventors: Alex SYMINGTON, Hermann HERRLICH, George LOHR, Robert KODADEK
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Publication number: 20150233787Abstract: A device for installing a modular crawler into an air gap of rotating electrical machinery and removing the crawler from the air gap has a reconfigurable handle attached to a curved head made from metallic material. The crawler is magnetically attached to the curved head when it is desired to insert the crawler into the air gap or remove the crawler from the air gap. The head can be rolled in the field into the curvature needed to match the stator's inner surface so that the installation device can easily be inserted in the air gap. The handle has several joints that can be adjusted in the field as needed for the best reachability. A camera is mounted on the curved head so that an operator can see the interface region between the curved head, crawler and air gap.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2015Publication date: August 20, 2015Applicant: ABB Technology AGInventors: William Eakins, Gregory Rossano, George Q. Zhang, Thomas A. Fuhlbrigge, Hetal V. Lakhani, Cajetan Pinto, Gregory Penza, Hermann Herrlich, Robert Kodadek
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Publication number: 20140218501Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2014Publication date: August 7, 2014Applicant: ULC Robotics, Inc.Inventors: G. Gregory Penza, George Lohr, Hermann Herrlich
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Patent number: 8723943Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2011Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Inventors: G. Gregory Penza, George Lohr, Hermann Herrlich
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Publication number: 20140090481Abstract: A gas flow test apparatus and method include a flow monitor that is selectively connectable to a gas pipeline. An air motor driven regenerative blower is used to increase the flow of gas through the around a blockage in the pipeline to simulate an increased gas loading condition on the intake side of the apparatus. The gas drawn from the intake side is not vented to the atmosphere, but rather, is discharged to the exhaust side of the apparatus back into the pipeline. Pipeline pressure is measured on the intake side of the apparatus to ensure that gas supply is adequate for blocking off the pipeline for maintenance.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2013Publication date: April 3, 2014Applicants: National Grid USA Service Company, Inc., ULC Robotics, Inc.Inventors: Ray Moore, Mike McGrade, Serafino Catapano, Robert Kodadek, III, G. Gregory Penza, Hermann Herrlich, Griffin Reames, Joseph M. Vitelli, JR.
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Publication number: 20110175996Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2011Publication date: July 21, 2011Applicant: ULC ROBOTICS, INC.Inventors: G. Gregory Penza, George Lohr, Hermann Herrlich
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Patent number: 7940297Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2009Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: ULC Robotics, Inc.Inventors: G. Gregory Penza, George Lohr, Hermann Herrlich
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Publication number: 20090244276Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2009Publication date: October 1, 2009Applicant: ULC Robotics, Inc.Inventors: G. Gregory Penza, George Lohr, Hermann Herrlich
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Patent number: 7551197Abstract: An inspection system configured for “no-blow” use in a pressurized gas pipeline includes a push rod wound around a spool for convenient deployment and portability. A camera disposed on one end of the push rod is configured to relay images back to a monitor. A motor is configured for remote actuation by an operator, and provides for self-propelled movement of the camera in the pipeline. An entry tube is configured for sealed entry into the pipeline to facilitate entry of the camera and push rod. A guide shoe at the end of the entry tube provides a smooth transition for the camera and push rod as it leaves the entry tube and enters the pipeline. An automatically deployable and retractable positioning system is used to keep the camera away from an interior surface of the pipeline, and in the case of smaller pipelines, centers the camera within the pipeline.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2005Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Assignee: ULC Robotics, Inc.Inventors: G. Gregory Penza, George Lohr, Hermann Herrlich
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Patent number: D748053Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2014Date of Patent: January 26, 2016Assignee: ABB Technology AGInventors: Hermann Herrlich, Robert Kodadek, Gregory Penza, William J. Eakins, Gregory Rossano, George Q. Zhang, Thomas A. Fuhlbrigge, Hetal V. Lakhani, Cajetan Pinto, Sangeun Choi
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Patent number: D756922Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2014Date of Patent: May 24, 2016Assignee: ABB Technology AGInventors: Hermann Herrlich, Robert Kodadek, Gregory Penza, William J. Eakins, Gregory Rossano, George Q. Zhang, Thomas A. Fuhlbrigge, Hetal V. Lakhani, Cajetan Pinto, Sangeun Choi