Patents Issued in July 2, 2013
  • Patent number: 8474503
    Abstract: A kicker wheel for folding and sealing the trailing edge of a folded article with sealing tabs. The kicker wheel can include a thin product support rail to support the article during activation of an air nozzle. The kicker wheel can also include a profiled tab swipe to fold and seal one or more tabs on the trailing edge of the article. The kicker wheel can be substantially cylindrical or can have an arcuate portion and a counterweight portion. One or more kicker wheels can be used in conjunction with an improved tabbing machine. The tabbing machine can include one or more air jets that along with the kicker wheel enable tabs to be applied to multiple sides of the article without turning or flipping the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Kirk-Rudy, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry V. Kirk, David Henson, Bryan Carbon, Tony Key, Michael Aiken, Robert H. Mills, Thomas J. Greulich
  • Patent number: 8474504
    Abstract: A tape dispenser is provided with a roller adjacent its cutter and tape retaining tabs adjacent the roller. The tabs a close to the roller and hold the end of the tape adjacent the roller facilitating application of the tape to a substrate. The dispenser is also provided with feet at its rear end allowing the dispenser to rest on its rear end with the end of the tape remote from the supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Shurtech Brands, LLC
    Inventor: Brian A. Vulpitta
  • Patent number: 8474505
    Abstract: A tattoo applicator for applying temporary tattoos to a subject, the tattoo applicator including a handheld housing and a sponge moveably supported by the housing to moisten the temporary tattoo and to apply pressure to the temporary tattoo. In some examples, the housing defines a retaining slot for receiving a tattoo-forming sheet. In some examples, the tattoo applicator includes a timer. In some examples, the tattoo applicator includes a push rod and a tattoo mount supported by the housing, the tattoo mount defining a port through which the push rod extends. In some examples, the tattoo applicator includes a fluid reservoir mounted to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Melissa Ozuna, Erika Kane, Craig Stock
  • Patent number: 8474506
    Abstract: An apparatus for bonding substrates includes a base member having a top surface and a recessed region which is configured for receiving at least a first substrate. The apparatus also has a plurality of support members disposed over the top surface for supporting a second substrate peripherally over the first substrate. Each support member is configured to vary a separation between the first substrate and the second substrate. Moreover, a pressure bar is configured to cause a center portion of the second substrate to contact the first substrate while the support members maintain peripheral separation between the first substrate and the second substrate. In operation, a bonded region between the first and the second substrates is expanded radially from the center portion when the support members are positioned to reduce the separation between the first and the second substrates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Fairchild Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventors: Yuri V. Sokolov, Donald Roy, Tyler Hook
  • Patent number: 8474507
    Abstract: A system for incorporation into a retractable covering that includes a flexible lift cord extending from a headrail to a bottom rail. The system includes a flexible protector of a length similar to that of an associated lift cord with the lift cord being operatively connected to the protector. The protector is in turn connected to a fabric extending between the headrail and the bottom rail at predetermined spaced locations so that any loop of protector formable is limited by the spacing between the locations at which the protector is connected to the fabric. The maximum size of a loop so formed in the protector and thus the lift cord associated therewith is insufficient to encapsulate a body part of a child or infant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Anthony, Ralph G. Jelic, Joseph E. Kovach, Robert A. Simons
  • Patent number: 8474508
    Abstract: Provided is a blind including a light-shielding sheet 20 having an internal space 22; a connecting string 30 which is received in the internal space 22; and an adjusting string 40 which is connected so as to alternately enclose an outer surface of the connecting string 30. Therefore, the blind has improved functionality and usability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Ki Cheol Cha
  • Patent number: 8474509
    Abstract: Operating system (1) for rotatably controlling retraction and deployment of an architectural covering. The operating system includes a drive pulley wheel (3) having a circumferential rim (5), a length of looped drive cord (9) operatively engaged with the pulley wheel (3) about its circumferential rim (5) and having depending portions on opposite sides of the pulley wheel (3), a cover (7) co-extensive with a portion of the circumference of the pulley wheel (3) and at least one stopper (19) attached to a portion of the length of the drive cord (9) and adapted to engage the cover (7) to stop rotation upon a predetermined amount of rotation of the pulley wheel (3). The pulley wheel is provided with a cavity (17) on its toothed circumference for receiving the at least one stopper (19) to prevent it from engaging the cover (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Industries BV
    Inventor: Lars Koop
  • Patent number: 8474510
    Abstract: A sunshade assembly includes a sunscreen having opposed longitudinal edges which are provided with guide strips which are substantially rigid in transverse direction. Opposed longitudinal guiderails each include a guide channel section defining a guide channel in which the respective guide strip is accommodated when the sunscreen is moved between open and closed positions. The guide channel of each guide rail is bound on the side facing the opposite guiderail by a guide flange supporting the lower side of the sunscreen. A part of the guide channel supports the guide strip on its side remote from the sunscreen. A biasing member acts between at least one of the guide strips and the corresponding guide channel section to bias the guide strip at least on its edge adjacent the sunscreen in a direction away from the guide flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Inalfa Roof Systems Group B.V.
    Inventors: Marcel Johan Christiaan Nellen, Stephan Christiaan Vervoort, Ruud Geurts, Peter Christiaan Leonardus Manders
  • Patent number: 8474511
    Abstract: A process for producing a twist-beam axle is provided. Related thereto, the twist-beam axle has a light metal longitudinal link and an iron metal transverse arm. The process contains the following steps: producing a casting mold for the respective longitudinal link; inserting one end of the transverse arm into a corresponding recess in the casting mold; then pouring the liquid light metal into the casting mold for the longitudinal link; cooling the poured light metal; and removing the transverse arm joined to the cooled light metal from the casting mold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Marc Simon
  • Patent number: 8474512
    Abstract: A cooler device for a motor vehicle includes a radiator liquid cooler with a first cooler element for cooling radiator liquid for the motor vehicle's combustion engine, a charge air cooler with a second cooler element for cooling of charge air for the combustion engine, the first and the second cooler elements extending substantially parallel and side by side, with a narrow space between the cooler elements. A screening device in the space between the cooler elements regulates the air flow through the elements. A control mechanism switches the screening device to and fro between an open position in which the screening device does not, or at least does not appreciably, limit the air flow through the cooler elements, and a closed position in which the screening device limits the air flow through the cooler elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Scania CV AB (Publ)
    Inventors: Rickard Pettersson, Frida Ödmark
  • Patent number: 8474513
    Abstract: The invention relates to an air-conditioning system (1), especially an automotive air-conditioning system, which comprises a multi-part air conduction housing (1) and components disposed therein, such as at least one heater (H: h). The air conduction housing (1), in the area of at least one component, is configured as a replacement part, especially in the form of a part to be pushed in.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Behr GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Evripidis Koukouravas, Michael Roth
  • Patent number: 8474514
    Abstract: The invention relates to a carrier structure (1) for partitioning and/or inner partitioning with integrated heating and/or cooling. The structure is characterized in that it comprises mounts (2) that can be fixed to the structure of a building and adapted for receiving a cladding (8); through chutes (5) formed so that they can be attached on said mounts (2); and a network of heating and/or cooling members (6) extending in a portion or the totality of said chutes (5). The invention also relates to a mount and a chute for realizing such a structure, and to a partitioning or inner partitioning for implementing the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas Fischer
  • Patent number: 8474515
    Abstract: A cylindrical heat exchanger for use as a gas cooler in a thermal regenerative machine such as a Stirling engine includes an imperforate middle wall of sufficient strength and thickness to withstand the pressure exerted by the working fluid. The heat exchanger includes an inner corrugated wall located within an axial gas flow passage inside the middle wall, and an outer corrugated wall which defines an axial coolant flow passage along the outer surface of the middle wall. The coolant flow passage preferably contains a corrugated intermediate wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Dana Canada Corporation
    Inventors: John G. Burgers, Michael A. Martin, Ihab Edward Gerges, Bruce L. Evans
  • Patent number: 8474516
    Abstract: A micro-channel heat exchanger suited for use in large-area cold plates includes a heat transfer member having winding micro-channels, a manifold, and a cover plate. The micro-channels' winding design is defined by a nonlinear flow axis that may include a plurality of short pitch and small amplitude undulations, which cause the flow to change directions, as well as two or more large amplitude bends that cause the flow to reverse direction. In low flow per unit area applications, the winding micro-channels allow a user to customize the pressure drop to promote good flow distribution, to achieve improved heat transfer uniformity, and to enable the pressure drop to remain above the bubble point of the heat transfer structure to prevent gas blockage. The winding micro-channels also improve the heat transfer coefficient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Mikros Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Javier A. Valenzuela
  • Patent number: 8474517
    Abstract: A heat exchanger, such as a condenser or gas cooler, having a collecting tube which has a wall and which can be produced by deformation of a single metal strip, which collecting tube has, in its base, at least one row of openings in which heat exchanger tubes, each of which has two narrow and two wide sides, are fastened at their ends. The collecting tube can have at least two chambers, which adjoin one another approximately at a central longitudinal axis, and also a reinforcement, which is formed by the longitudinal edge strips of the metal strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Modine Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Daniel Borst, Christoph Schiebel, Frank Vetter
  • Patent number: 8474518
    Abstract: A tank body 125 comprising header tanks 120 of a radiator is composed with a polyamide composition containing polyamide 6,10, glass fiber, copper and nucleating agent. At this time, the polyamide composition contains, based on the total weight of the polyamide 6,10, the glass fiber, the copper and the nucleating agent, (a) 48.9 to 79.988 percent by weight of the polyamide 6,10, (b) 20 to 50 percent by weight of the glass fiber, (c) 0.002 to 0.1 percent by weight of the copper, and (d) 0.01 to 1.5 percent by weight of the nucleating agent, and the result of measuring half-crystallization time of the polyamide composition is 5 minutes or less. In addition, the polyamide 6,10 used has a relative viscosity, as measured in 98 percent sulfuric acid, of 2.3 to 2.9.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Shinya Goto, Takahiko Nagaya, Masahiro Nozaki
  • Patent number: 8474519
    Abstract: Warm water is pumped up by a pump from an underground aquifer present 1000 to 1500 m below the seabed, geothermal energy is caused to flow through a permeable layer below a methane hydrate layer, a dissociation boundary surface of an un-dissociated area of the methane hydrate layer is dissociated to generate methane gas, the methane gas is led into a production well from peripheral areas and through a gas inlet screen and caused to rise so that the methane gas is collected on the sea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignees: Japan Drilling Co., Ltd., Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation
    Inventors: Masahiro Nakamura, Saburo Goto, Takeyoshi Nozawa, Kozo Ishida
  • Patent number: 8474520
    Abstract: A string for drilling a well for installation and retrieval of ESP equipment without a rig. A well is drilled past the end of casing which has been cemented in place and extends to a wellhead at the surface. A receptacle is attached between production casing joints and run into the well 10. The receptacle is a tubular member with an inclined pocket formed on a side. At least one passage or port in the pocket intersects with a passage in receptacle with one or more lengths of tubing attached to the pocket. A wet connector within the production casing is landed in the receptacle and self aligns to the tubing. Electrical wires run within the tubing mate and lock with the wet connector. This allows an ESP to be run into the well via winch such that it stabs into the wet connector to receive power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Ignacio Martinez, Raul M. Krasuk, Juan M. Garoby
  • Patent number: 8474521
    Abstract: The disclosure provides an adjustable modular skid system with a plurality of skid modules having a frame to support oil field fluid components, such as manifolds, mixing blocks, collection blocks, fracturing pumps, piping and connections, and other devices used to transport water, sand slurries, gas, oil, or other fluids in oil field applications. The modules can be arranged in multiple configuration to fit a particular well site. The modules can include supply modules, transition modules, and distribution modules. The skid modules can be coupled together through piping and relevant connections at the well site. If appropriate, the skid modules can be supported on pilings or other foundational supports. The system can be assembled remotely, started and tested, partially disassembled into the skid modules, and then installed at the well site with minimal additional effort by generally providing lines and connections between the modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: T-3 Property Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Saurabh Kajaria, Kendall Keene, Robert Ripple
  • Patent number: 8474522
    Abstract: A debris removal device features structural support from an exterior housing that allows more space for debris collection. The debris enters the collection volume from the top to eliminate debris from having to go through a valve. The screen in the device is disposed internally to protect it during handling and running. A variety of external flow diverters are used to direct debris laden fluid into the tool and to keep debris out of an annular space around the tool that could interfere with its removal. The diverters can be actuated by relative movement in the tool or applied pressure to a piston which can inflate a sleeve or orient or misalign paths through brushes for selective bypassing of fluid exterior to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Gerald D. Lynde, John P. Davis
  • Patent number: 8474524
    Abstract: A technique enables control over anti-extrusion layer movement during packer inflation. A packer employs a packer nipple having an exterior which uniquely engages distinct layers of the packer. The exterior comprises a plurality of distinct retention features, and each retention feature is designed to engage a specific layer of the packer. An individual retention feature can be uniquely designed to secure an anti-extrusion layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Pierre-Yves Corre, Gilles Carree
  • Patent number: 8474525
    Abstract: A geothermal liner system with packer for sealing a producing zone within a wellbore has a mandrel placed in an interior of the wellbore, a packer releasably affixed around an outer surface of the mandrel, and a sleeve positioned adjacent an end of the mandrel. The liner system is generally tubular and may include joint casings and a mandrel, all being tubular-shaped. The packer is expandable upon exposure to wellbore conditions. The sleeve has perforations in a wall thereof. The mandrel is slidable relative to the packer when the packer expands against the wellbore. The sleeve is selectively controlled to manage production from sealed wellbore zones. The system is stabilized through various wellbore conditions, such as geothermal heat, by being adjustable for thermal expansion of parts of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: David R. Van De Vliert
  • Patent number: 8474526
    Abstract: The present invention provides a screen for a well that utilizes a partial screen wrapping used to advantage with side conduits (e.g., alternate flowpaths), control lines, intelligent completions devices, and the like. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Schulmberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick W. Bixenman, Craig D. Johnson, Jake A. Danos, Matthew R. Hackworth
  • Patent number: 8474527
    Abstract: A mechanism for adjusting the relative angular orientation of two coaxial components includes a mandrel having a cylindrical central section between upper and lower splined sections, a sleeve rotatably and slidably disposed around the mandrel's central section, and generally cylindrical upper and lower ratchet members positioned, respectively, about the mandrel's upper and lower splined sections. The ratchet members have internal grooves which receive the mandrel splines for torsional load transfer while permitting limited rotation relative to the mandrel, but their axial positions relative to the mandrel are fixed. The upper and lower ends of the sleeve have circumferentially-arrayed ratchet teeth engageable, respectively, with corresponding teeth on the upper and lower ratchet members. The central sleeve has torque-transferring external splines slidable within matching grooves on the inner surface of a cylindrical tool housing enclosing the mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Dreco Energy Services Ltd.
    Inventors: Jonathan Ryan Prill, Nicholas Ryan Marchand
  • Patent number: 8474528
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for gravel packing. The method is particularly useful for deploying a sand screen assembly having shunt tubes. The apparatus can include two or more tubulars disposed about at least one expandable member. The tubulars are longitudinally aligned with one another and bundled together in a run-in position, and the bundled tubulars radially expand when the expandable member is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Luis Felipe Peixoto, Raymond J. Tibbles
  • Patent number: 8474529
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method to control rotational positioning of continuous concentric tubing that extends from a surface downhole in a subterranean well or bore. In one version, a continuous cylindrical inner tube resides within and is concentric with a cylindrical outer tube. At least one elliptical lobe extends from the continuous inner tube. The invention utilizes diameter restrictions within and attached to the outer concentric tubing so that the elliptical lobe or lobes engage the diameter restrictions. Accordingly, rotation of one tube rotates or orients the other tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Regency Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Kenneth Doyle Oglesby
  • Patent number: 8474530
    Abstract: An apparatus for indicating the orientation of a structure which includes an orienting sub releasably connected at an outer case. The orienting sub is at a preselected orientation relative to the structure. A change in fluid pressure of a predetermined magnitude of flow rate through the orienting sub will indicate that the structure is at a desired orientation in the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry E. Rogers, David Szarka, Robert Pipkin
  • Patent number: 8474531
    Abstract: Methods relate to a steam-gas-solvent (SGS) process for recovery of heavy crude oil and bitumen. The methods include injecting a steam-gas-solvent mixture to mobilize hydrocarbons in a formation and producing from the formation the hydrocarbons that are mobilized. The steam-gas-solvent mixture includes steam, a gas non-condensable under reservoir operating conditions and a solvent condensable under reservoir operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: ConocoPhillips Company
    Inventors: Tawfik Noaman Nasr, David A. Brown
  • Patent number: 8474532
    Abstract: A wellbore fluid that includes an oleaginous continuous phase; a non-oleaginous discontinuous phase comprising a water-soluble silicate therein; and an emulsifier to stabilize the non-oleaginous phase dispersed in the oleaginous phase is disclosed. A setting agent, including organic or inorganic setting agent may optionally be included to trigger gelation or precipitation of the silicate downhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: M-1 Drilling Fluids U.K. Limited
    Inventor: David Antony Ballard
  • Patent number: 8474533
    Abstract: An apparatus for obtaining fluid samples in a subterranean wellbore comprises a carrier assembly configured to be disposed in a subterranean wellbore; a sampling chamber operably associated with the carrier assembly; a pressure assembly coupled to the sampling chamber and configured to pressurize a fluid sample obtained in the sampling chamber, wherein the pressure assembly is configured to contain a pressure generating agent; an activation mechanism configured to activate the pressure generating agent; and a power device operably associated with the carrier assembly and configured to provide an impulse for activating the activation mechanism, wherein the power device is not disposed on the pressure assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott L. Miller, Cyrus A. Irani
  • Patent number: 8474534
    Abstract: Flow control devices can include functionalized surfaces on inner regions of walls. A functionalized surface can include a hydrophilic and/or a hydrophobic material that can affect fluid flowing in a flow path of a wall to facilitate fluid selection by the flow control device. Fluids may be switched in a flow control device using a functionalized surface even when a density and viscosity of different oil and water mixtures of the fluids are the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Linley Fripp, Michael T. Pelletier, Jason D. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 8474535
    Abstract: A well screen inflow control device with check valve flow controls. A well screen assembly includes a filter portion and a flow control device which varies a resistance to flow of fluid in response to a change in velocity of the fluid. Another well screen assembly includes a filter portion and a flow resistance device which decreases a resistance to flow of fluid in response to a predetermined stimulus applied from a remote location. Yet another well screen assembly includes a filter portion and a valve including an actuator having a piston which displaces in response to a pressure differential to thereby selectively permit and prevent flow of fluid through the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: William M. Richards, John C. Gano
  • Patent number: 8474536
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for killing of uncontrolled oil fountain include a series of rods with the first rod having the smallest diameter and successive rods having increasing diameters. Such telescopic assembly of rods is lowered into the well to cause gradual reduction in cross-sectional area available for oil flow discharge. Once sufficiently large rods are lowered into the well, the oil fountain discharge will be greatly diminished. Final sealing may be accomplished by pumping cement into a space formed between the well pipe and the rod assembly. A novel system for aligning the rods to the center of the well is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventors: Simon Tseytlin, Alexey S. Kashik
  • Patent number: 8474537
    Abstract: A wellhead connector for connecting a riser or production tree to a wellhead of a subsea well utilizes a singular annular piston to lock the connector onto the wellhead. The wellhead connector includes a housing that contains dogs for engagement with the exterior of the wellhead housing. A cam ring is also included, which has an inner side for engaging the dogs and moving them inward into a locked position with the wellhead housing. The cam ring is of a reduced proportion relative to prior art. As such, the cam ring outer side is dimensioned to contact the inner side of the connector housing under load. Connecting rods connect the piston to the cam rings. As the piston moves downward, the cam ring also moves downward, forcing the dogs inward into a locked position. As the piston moves upward, the cam ring also moves upward, thereby unlocking the connector. A secondary annular piston is also provided to guarantee unlocking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: Robert K. Voss, Perry J. Stokes, David W. Hughes, Joseph W. Pallini, Jr., Robert N. Rogers, William T. Higgins
  • Patent number: 8474538
    Abstract: A connector assembly that can be used to connect a tension ring to a telescoping joint on a riser by using a lower set of hydraulically actuated dogs. A set of hydraulically actuated hang-off dogs on the connector assembly can be used to connect the tension ring to a diverter housing mounted on a rig. To prevent accidental disengagement of the hang-off dogs, a hydraulically actuated lock ring is used to provide a positive stop against the back of the hang-off dogs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: David Andrew Wallace, Martin Urquhart
  • Patent number: 8474539
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides an improved design for a pull tube sleeved stress joint and associated pull tube for managing stresses on a catenary riser for a floating offshore structure. The pull tube sleeve stress joint includes at least one sleeve surrounding a length of the pull tube with an annular gap between the sleeve and pull tube and a link ring therebetween. For embodiments having a plurality of sleeves, a first sleeve can be spaced by an annular first gap from the pull tube and coupled thereto with a first ring between the pull tube and the first sleeve, and a second sleeve can be spaced by an annular second gap from the first sleeve and coupled thereto with a second ring between the first sleeve and the second sleeve. Both pull tube and sleeves can be made with regular pipe segments welded together with regular girth welds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Technip France
    Inventors: Michael Y. H. Luo, Bob Lixin Zhang, Shih-Hsiao Mark Chang
  • Patent number: 8474540
    Abstract: The connector comprises a male flange 15 and a female flange 14 allowing to assemble a main tube and auxiliary line tubes 11. A locking collar 17 and a locking ring 40 assemble the male flange and the female flange. Locking collar 17 is mounted mobile in rotation on the outer surface of the male flange while cooperating with the outer surfaces of the male and female flanges. Locking ring 40 is mounted mobile in rotation on the male element of the connector while cooperating with the inner surface of the female connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: IFP Energies Nouvelles
    Inventors: Jean Guesnon, Gérard Papon, Emmanuel Persent
  • Patent number: 8474541
    Abstract: A drill pipe and a method of applying hardbanding thereto. A hardbanding alloy comprising iron and manganese present in the range of 67 to 87 weight percent (wt. %), niobium and chromium present in the range of 9 to 29 wt. %, and boron, carbon and silicon present in the range of 3 to 6.5 wt. % may be welded around at least a portion of a tool joint circumference. The hardbanding alloy may exhibit a hardness of 45 Rc to 70 Rc and a wear rate in the range of 0.08 grams to 1.60 grams of mass loss after 6,000 cycles as measured using ASTM G65-04, Procedure A.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: The NanoSteel Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel James Branagan, Brian E. Meacham, William D. Kiilunen, James N. Milloway, Brian D. Merkle
  • Patent number: 8474542
    Abstract: Selective and non-selective lock mandrel assemblies include a lock mandrel affixing to a running tool. A collet on the tool holds an inner mandrel in a downhole position in the lock mandrel. For the non-selective assembly, a biased key on the lock mandrel extends into a nipple profile, and shoulders on the key and profile stop further run-in. Operators shear a first shear pin on the running tool by jarring down, and the collet moves and releases its hold on the inner mandrel. Freed, the inner mandrel biased by a spring moves to an uphole position, and a flange fits behind the extended key to lock it in the profile. For the selective assembly, the biased key is held retracted until activated using locator dogs on the running tool to engage a transition when running uphole. Once the lock mandrel is set, operators detach the running tool from it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Tracy Dean Blanton, Steven Carl Guy
  • Patent number: 8474543
    Abstract: A fluid control device is provided for controlling and/or halting an uncontrolled flow of petroleum or natural gas from an open well head on the sea floor. The fluid control device includes an elongated member having a diameter smaller than the inside diameter of the well head casing. A tapered section in connection with the elongated section, has a diameter equal to or greater than the inside diameter of the well head casing. An end section connected to the tapered section has a diameter greater than or equal to the outside diameter of the well head casing. The fluid control device, under its own mass or under an external force, overcomes the upward forces created by the flowing petroleum or natural gas, resulting in sufficient downward movement of the fluid control device and contact with the open well to seal the well head casing or drill pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventors: Stojan Kotefski, Nikola Kotevski, Dae Shin
  • Patent number: 8474544
    Abstract: A device and method for enhancing traction effectiveness of horseshoes is provided. The device includes a non-threaded stud and a non-threaded insert for receiving the stud. The insert has expandable wall sections with inwardly projecting protrusions, the wall sections at least partially sheathing the stud. The stud and insert create an assembly formed-fittingly insertable in an aperture formed on a bottom surface of the horseshoe. The stud projects outward from the bottom surface, is secure against dislodgement when the horseshoe is worn, and yet removable without threadably twisting the stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventors: Michael M. Mastice, Lawrence P. Getto
  • Patent number: 8474545
    Abstract: To provide a sprinkler head including: a sprinkler head main body having a nozzle therein, connected to water supply piping, and installed in a ceiling; a cover plate concealing the sprinkler head main body; a retainer disposed so that the cover plate is located below the ceiling surface and capable of releasing the cover plate in the event of fire; and a cylindrical member that is attached to the sprinkler head main body and to which the retainer is detachably connected, and having a structure that can save the trouble of removing and reattaching a protective cap at the time of installation of the sprinkler head. The sprinkler head has such a structure that a protective cap attached to the sprinkler head is fitted to the outer periphery of the sprinkler head main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Senju Sprinkler Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takashi Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 8474546
    Abstract: A packing pressure adjustment assembly for a ground opener unit of an agricultural implement includes a spring interconnected between a rotatable pressure adjustment arm and a trailing arm to which a packer wheel is rotatably mounted. The pressure adjustment arm is centered about an axle of the ground opener unit and is movable between a set of mounting positions that are defined by a set of teeth spaced and arced from one another along a frame portion of the ground opener unit. As the pressure adjustment arm is rotated, the amount of force exerted by the spring on the trailing arm is varied. The packing pressure adjustment assembly is relatively compact and is useful in providing high packing forces, such as a packing force in excess of 100 lbs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: CNH Canada, Ltd.
    Inventor: Robin B. Schilling
  • Patent number: 8474547
    Abstract: An isolation system includes at least one air bladder assembly including at least one air bladder. The isolation system can also include at least one coupling member coupling the air bladder assembly to a drill head. The air bladder is configured to compress and expand to counter oscillating forces generated by the drill head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Longyear TM, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Oothoudt, Robert Eugene Able
  • Patent number: 8474548
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus used to transmit information to the surface from a subsurface location during the process of drilling a bore hole comprising a pressure pulse generator or “pulser” coupled to a sensor package, a controller, an active electromagnetic system for subsurface collision avoidance, and a battery power source all of which reside inside a short section of drill pipe close to the bit at the bottom of the bore hole being drilled wherein the apparatus or “MWD Tool” can be commanded from the surface to make a measurement of desired parameters and transmit this information to the surface by encoding data in pressure pulses generated by a pulser valve that includes a stator and a rotor which may be open and closed to create pressure pulses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Teledrift Company
    Inventors: Allen R. Young, Brad Reeves
  • Patent number: 8474549
    Abstract: A method and a rod magazine for handling elongated rods in a rock drilling unit, and a bolting unit. Elongated rods, such as drill rods and rock bolts, are stored into a linear rod magazine—provided with feed members for transferring the rods upward and downward in the magazine. The feed members comprise screw surfaces by which the rods are supported in the magazine. The required feeding movement is produced by rotating the feed members about their rotation axis. In addition, the rod magazine comprises transfer means that allow the rods to be transferred from the magazine to a drilling line or bolting line, i.e. to a center, and vice versa. The transfer means are provided with gripping means for gripping the rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Sandvik Mining and Construction Oy
    Inventor: Juha Piipponen
  • Patent number: 8474550
    Abstract: A system for optimizing a rate-of-penetration of a drill string includes a plurality of sensors in operable communication with the drill string and a controller in operable communication with the plurality of sensors. The controller is connectable to a downhole active vibration control device and capable of outputting a signal to the downhole active vibration control device for optimizing the rate-of-penetration of the drill string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Chakradhar R. Byreddy, Dmtriy Dashevskiy, John D. Macpherson, Nimish Tambe
  • Patent number: 8474552
    Abstract: Piston steering devices and methods for use of piston devices. One aspect as disclosed herein provides a ball piston device including: a sleeve in fluid communication with a fluid source and a ball received within the sleeve. The ball is movable within the sleeve from a recessed position and an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Fabio de Paula Neves, Alex Slocum, Ian David Thomas
  • Patent number: 8474553
    Abstract: The present invented mechanism comprises more than two (legs) with phase difference (like polygon-shape, ellipse-shape, and etc) between their rotation angles to produce pre-loading for improved adhesion. Two rigid plates covered with adhesives are attached to each phase difference wheel. Each plate connects to the wheels via a hinge embodying a torsional spring, which forces the plate back to its original position after each contact with surface. The phase difference wheels are made of elastic materials for application of controlled pre-loads at contact surfaces during locomotion. The difference between height and width of each wheel as well as the elastic properties of the materials determine the pre-load pressure applied during locomotion. The pre-load pressure is not strongly dependent on the orientation of locomotion. This enables locomotion in vertical, inclined and even upside-down orientation and also in the non-gravity environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Metna Co.
    Inventors: Amirpasha Peyvandi, Parviz Soroushian, Jue Lu
  • Patent number: 8474554
    Abstract: An unmanned guided vehicle that is at least twice as fast as those of the prior art, lighter, less vulnerable, and more reliable than the prior art having at least one of: a dual-action dogleg suspension system; a track system comprising a plurality of cleats, a rubber insert secured to each cleat, and two cables serially joining each cleat to make up a track; a track guide system comprising a shark fin secured to each cleat that runs through a plurality of track guides; a dry clutch and braking system; a tubular chassis comprising a tubular center chassis and a tubular suspension chassis; a spring-loaded piston track tension compensator system; a flat drive tooth drive sprocket system that allows for clearing foreign debris from between the teeth; and a suspension carrier modular design assembly system comprising a passenger side suspension carrier, center cage, and driver's side suspension carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Howe and Howe Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael David Howe, Geoffrey Scott Howe