Detecting Or Repairing Leak Patents (Class 137/15.11)
  • Patent number: 11585688
    Abstract: Various implementations described herein are directed to a petrochemical measurement system. A remote terminal unit includes a network data server. A human machine interface may be an autonomous network data client in communication with the remote terminal unit. The human machine interface may include: a memory having configuration parameter software stored thereon; a user interface configured to receive configuration parameter input using the configuration parameter software; and a processor configured to send the configuration parameters received from the user interface of the HMI to the remote terminal unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: RELEVANT SOLUTIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Matthew G. Smith, Andrew D. Hutson
  • Patent number: 10480980
    Abstract: Various implementations described herein are directed to a petrochemical measurement system. A remote terminal unit includes a network data server. A human machine interface may be an autonomous network data client in communication with the remote terminal unit. The human machine interface may include: a memory having configuration parameter software stored thereon; a user interface configured to receive configuration parameter input using the configuration parameter software; and a processor configured to send the configuration parameters received from the user interface of the HMI to the remote terminal unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: Relevant Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Matthew G. Smith, Andrew D. Hutson
  • Patent number: 10094734
    Abstract: A system and method for remote detection, marking and/or sealing leaks in pipe or duct networks are provided. Aerosolized sealant particles that have a surface tackiness that diminishes over time are introduced into the pipe interior. A pressure differential is created and the micron scale particles adhere to the leak edges and to other particles as they are brought to the leaks and then leave the gas streamlines. Control of particle size, drying rate and particle residence time in the pipe interior allows control over the treatment area so that leaks are sealed in the pipes without sealing purposeful openings such as pilot lights or gas valves. This control also produces seals in duct systems with minimal tack at the time the duct systems are returned to service. Particles that do not participate in the formation of a seal can be collected or flushed through the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventor: Mark Modera
  • Patent number: 10082212
    Abstract: A diaphragm-type control valve having a diaphragm and a valve body is provided preferably for use in the separation of and fluid control between a fluid source and a pressurized gas volume. The diaphragm element and a port in the body together form an intermediate chamber that eliminates the need for a check-valve downstream of the valve. In one preferred embodiment, an inner surface of the valve body defines a chamber having an inlet and an outlet in communication with the chamber, and an elongated seat member defining a groove in communication with the port. A diaphragm member having upper and lower surfaces is disposed within the chamber. The lower surface preferably includes a pair of spaced apart elongated members defining a channel therebetween. The diaphragm member engages the seat member placing the channel in communication with the groove to define an air seat in communication with the port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2018
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventors: Yoram Ringer, Roger S. Wilkins, Boris Frenkel
  • Patent number: 9995401
    Abstract: Valve wedge for a slide valve including a rough cast metal wedge core encapsulated in a soft seal encapsulation and having two guide members projecting transversely in opposite directions, each of the guide members including a sideways projecting rib of the rough cast wedge core and a prefabricated wear and corrosion-resistant slide shoe arranged thereon, each rib having laterally opposite lateral surfaces and each shoe including two opposite lateral walls with inner surfaces, each shoe being fixedly vulcanized to the respective one of the ribs by means of soft seal encapsulation present between the rough cast wedge core and the shoe where the outer lateral surfaces of the ribs are finished surfaces and the opposite inner surfaces of each of the slide shoes is laterally rigidly supported by the corresponding outer lateral surfaces of the respective one of the ribs so that each rib laterally rigidly supports the respective one of the slide shoes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: AVK HOLDING A/S
    Inventor: Thomas Winther
  • Patent number: 9957026
    Abstract: A device for providing buoyancy comprising; —a bladder capable of being inflated; —a vessel containing fluid for inflating the bladder; and —one or more valves for controlling the passage of fluid between the bladder and the vessel; wherein one or more of the valves are capable of being opened to permit the passage of fluid from the vessel to the bladder in response to at least one of exposure of the device to a pre-determined pressure level and detection of blood oxygen concentration below a pre-determine threshold in an individual using the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: UNITED ARAB EMIRATES UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Ali Al Marzouqi, Mahmoud Al Ahmad, Shamsa Aldhaheri, Ghubaisha Slayem Al Ameri, Maryam Abdullah Al Jabri
  • Patent number: 9874313
    Abstract: A containment device with a sample saving feature is disclosed. The device is equipped to withstand the pressure created by a breached LACT unit, pump conduit, sample selector, high pressure pump, volume regulator, or other similar equipment. The device is equipped with at least one vent disposed at the top of the container. Additionally, the device is equipped with at least one drain disposed at the bottom of the container, configured to drain any breached contents to be saved, minimizing product loss. A center conduit is disposed between the top portion and the bottom portion of the container, providing for the placement of the entirety of the LACT unit or other equipment to be housed within the container. At least one sensor is disposed within the containment device, and is configured to detect the presence of liquid. Upon detection of liquid product within the device, an alarm or other indicator may be activated, calling attention to the breach.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2018
    Inventor: Tyson Hammond
  • Patent number: 9851025
    Abstract: A pipe or fitting having a polymer liner and a replaceable component including an outer ring having an outside diameter matching the inside diameter of the pipe or fitting, a polymer liner bonded to the outer ring and having an inside diameter matching the inside diameter of the liner of the pipe or fitting. The replaceable component is disposed in an inlet or outlet of the pipe or fitting so as to form a continuous bore lined with a polymer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: SYNCRUDE CANADA LTD. in trust for the owners of the Syncrude Project as such owners exist now and in the future
    Inventor: Soon Won Moon
  • Patent number: 9835267
    Abstract: In accordance with the resent invention, there is provided a fugitive emission detection system for use in conjunction with a valve having a packing deign which includes a primary packing and a secondary packing. The valve further includes a leak port which is disposed within the valve bonnet between the primary and secondary packings. The detection system is operative to maintain the leak port in a normally open state. As a result, any fluid leakage past the primary packing is normally sent to the detection system, as opposed to being applied to and thus pressurizing the secondary packing. In the event of that a prescribed level of fluid leakage beyond the primary packing is detected, the leak port will be closed. The closure of the leak port facilitates the pressurization of the secondary packing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: Control Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Fabio Giove, Jalil Abrahimzadeh
  • Patent number: 9506594
    Abstract: A method is presented for joining a first pipe to the wall of a second pipe. The second pipe contains a first fluid. The first pipe has an open end and a closed end. The method includes abutting the open end of the first pipe against the wall of the second pipe to create an abutment, forming a fluid-tight seal around the abutment, filling the first pipe with a second fluid, and creating an opening in the wall of the second pipe by cutting a section of the wall of the second pipe enclosed by the abutment. The second fluid may have the same pressure as the first fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Assignees: Yanbu Aramco Sinopec Refining Company Ltd. (YASREF), Power and Water Utility Company for Jubail and Yanbu (MARAFIQ)
    Inventors: Mathkar S. Alotaibi, Clarence P. Leu, Salman R. Almotairi, Salamah Al-Suraihi, Ali A. Almalki
  • Patent number: 9389157
    Abstract: A system for detecting wear in a flush valve includes at least one pressure sensor adapted to measure a water pressure within the flush valve and at least one microprocessor in communication with the at least one pressure sensor. The at least one microprocessor is configured to determine the water pressure within the flush valve measured by the at least one pressure sensor at or after a predetermined time following operation of the flush valve that is equal to or exceeding a known time required to reseal the flush valve during normal operation, compare the determined water pressure with a pressure value sufficient to reseal the flush valve during normal operation, and determine if the flush valve is worn based at least partially on the comparison. A method and apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: SDB IP Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
  • Patent number: 9356329
    Abstract: A battery system having a plurality of cells in a battery housing, and an absorption device arranged in the battery housing to absorbs fluid that has escaped in the battery housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Peter Dämon, Georg Eichberger, Ralph Wünsche
  • Publication number: 20150107683
    Abstract: A method of reducing leakage from a pipeline includes the steps of: pumping fluid through a pipeline using at least one pump, the at least one pump comprising a reversible, positive displacement fluid pump; detecting a leak in the pipeline downstream of the pump; reversing the at least one pump to draw fluid out of a downstream section of the pipeline; and redirecting the fluid being drawn from the pipeline into a storage container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Pradeep Dass
  • Patent number: 8960215
    Abstract: A method for repairing a component with a leak are disclosed. In an embodiment, a component having at least one fluid flow path with a leak therein is provided. The component may be made of a first material. A second material may be introduced into the fluid flow path, and propelled into the location of the leak in the flow path. Once there, the second material is melted and solidified, forming a plug that occludes the leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Yan Cui, Srikanth Chandrudu Kottilingam, Dechao Lin, Brian Lee Tollison
  • Publication number: 20140366954
    Abstract: In some implementations of ignition-free welding in at least one fastener is attached to a container that resides within a hazardous environment. The fasteners are then used to secure a fill zone to the container. The chamber then receives a sealing material for the purpose of sealing a leak without having to remove the hazardous material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Applicant: FORGE TECH, INC.
    Inventor: Forge Tech, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8905057
    Abstract: A shunt pan is used to prevent excessive water damage from occurring if water leaking from a kitchen appliance is not discovered in a timely manner. The shunt pan directs the flow of collecting water into a walkway of a kitchen, where it is visible, rather than allowing the water to soak into surrounding kitchen walls and cabinets. A shunt pan is characterized by a rectangular floor bordered on three sides by walls, but not bordered by a physical obstruction on the fourth side, which is open. Preferably, the open side includes an indicator material, such as confetti or glitter in a water-soluble binder, that can be carried by flowing water into the walkway. If the water that carried the indicator material evaporates, the indicator material will remain in the walkway to clearly show the presence of a water leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Leland W. Sass
  • Publication number: 20140311586
    Abstract: A control valve for hydraulic media is provided. The control valve includes a valve body having four ports. A first seat, a second seat, and a dual seat are positioned in the valve body between the ports. Two poppets, each including a disc and a cup, with a spring located therebetween, are arranged on a cylindrical pin with an enlarged engagement portion that is slidably supported within the valve body. A solenoid assembly movable in an axial direction within the valve body contacts the cylindrical pin and adjusts the position of the discs and cups of the poppets with respect to the seats of the valve body to minimize unwanted leakage between the ports. This configuration comprises four variable orifices that cooperate to provide controlled flow during different energizing phases of the solenoid assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: Schaeffler Technologies GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: David BECKER
  • Publication number: 20140305513
    Abstract: A real time method and dynamic logic-based system for enhancing the operation of a pipeline network is disclosed. The system and method perform monitoring of the operation of a pipeline network, generate alarms in response to differing levels of destabilized pipeline operations, manage the generation of alarms based upon known operating events and operating conditions, diagnose potential source of the detected destabilized events and manage the operation of the pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company
    Inventor: Keith C. McDOWELL
  • Patent number: 8851098
    Abstract: A system for sealing a vessel, including: a sealing assembly including a sheet of material and an actuator; and a bracing assembly including a mesh structure. In response to an actuating signal: the actuator is arranged to dispose the sheet of material along at least a portion of an inner wall of the vessel; and the bracing assembly is arranged to displace the mesh structure such that the mesh structure urges the sheet of material into sealing contact with the at least a portion of the inner wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventor: Alan M. Thomas
  • Patent number: 8851099
    Abstract: A system and method for detecting leaks in pressurized or vacuum pipes is disclosed. A pipe clamp comprises a housing that surrounds a pipe fitting. A containment chamber within the pipe clamp prevents leaked gas from escaping into the environment. The pipe clamp is installed in series with an exhaust line to remove the leaked gas from the containment chamber. A sensor may be configured and disposed to detect a change in pressure in the containment chamber to indicate the occurrence of a leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: International Businss Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph P. DeGeorge, Joseph Casaregola, William Robert Copeland, Scott Matthew Hargash, Matthew F. Stanton, Bryant L. Hancock, Kevin R. Geysen
  • Patent number: 8844551
    Abstract: A method for detecting a leak in a closed-volume liquid system comprises circulating a fluid through a closed-loop with a pump having a reservoir and that is driven by an electric motor. The method also comprises sensing a pressure in the closed-loop, sensing current draw by the motor and sensing fluid level in the reservoir. The method further comprises determining a presence of a leak of fluid from the closed-loop based upon two of the sensed signals using a first leak detection logic, and determining the presence of a leak of fluid from the closed-loop based upon at least one of the sensed signals using a second leak detection logic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Kurt J. Doughty, Terrance R. Snider, Daniel Uttberg, Eric A. Rohrbach
  • Publication number: 20140109981
    Abstract: A self-seeking plug for deployment in a hydraulic line with a leak therein. The plug is configured for circulation through the line and to a resting location adjacently below or past the location of the leak in the line. As a result, the location of the leak may be identified, for example with reference to a tether running between the resting location and the site of deployment. Thus, line repair may more readily ensue. Additionally, and/or alternatively, sealing repair may ensue by way of sealing element(s) outfitted on the plug. Such may or may not be accompanied by an exposable bypass channel through the plug for sake of full hydraulic restoration of the line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Ives D. Loretz, Erdinc Cosgun, Spyro Kotsonis
  • Patent number: 8695620
    Abstract: A flush valve for a waste water system comprises a valve including a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet and a main valve element adapted for movement to allow fluid flow between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet based on a pressure differential across a portion of the main valve element. The valve also includes a vent system comprising a control chamber in flow communication with the fluid inlet of the valve and a vent outlet in flow communication with the fluid outlet of the valve, and a solenoid for venting fluid venting fluid from the control chamber to the fluid outlet. A pressure sensor, such as an electronic pressure transducer, senses the fluid pressure of fluid within the vent system. When a predetermined pressure threshold is reached or exceeded, the solenoid can be energized to release fluid from the control chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: SDB IP Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Shawn D. Bush
  • Patent number: 8651128
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for isolating a section of sewer line. In one embodiment, a chamber is provided that extends into the ground and intersects a sewer pipe. Thereafter, the fluid in the sewer pipe is exposed to an interior of the chamber and a dam is placed in the chamber to isolate an upstream portion of the chamber from a downstream portion. As fluid collects in the upstream side of the chamber, at least one pump is used to control the fluid level in the upstream portion by transferring the fluid from the chamber to a predetermined, remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Boyer Inc.
    Inventors: Mark L. Boyer, Billy D. Kelley, William D. O'Fiel, Michael E. Parsons
  • Patent number: 8646318
    Abstract: A leak sensor apparatus for sensing moisture is disclosed, which is prepared in such a manner that a base film layer, a conductive line layer and a protection film layer are sequentially stacked on its lower surface in an upward direction, and said conductive line layer includes a resistance line having a certain resistance value per unit area in a longitudinal direction, and a conductive line which is spaced apart from the resistance line and is formed in parallel with respect to the resistance line, and said protection film layer is provided with a plurality of holes which are formed at regular intervals so that the resistance line and the conductive line of the conductive line layer can be exposed to the outside through the holes, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Yumin System Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Dong Geun Yu, Hong Geun Yu
  • Publication number: 20130291952
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for detecting a leak in a gas precharged hydraulic accumulator having an initial gas charge entail activating a hydraulic pump to charge the gas precharged hydraulic accumulator and the hydraulic circuit associated with the gas precharged hydraulic accumulator when the hydraulic circuit and the hydraulic accumulator have a temperature that is substantially equivalent to an ambient temperature, e.g., on a cold start. The hydraulic pressure in the hydraulic circuit is monitored, and when a step in the hydraulic pressure is detected, various quantities are measured and used to determine a volumetric efficiency of the pump for use in later calculations of remaining gas amount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR, INC.
    Inventor: Heng Zhou
  • Patent number: 8448658
    Abstract: A rescue device for treating leakage of dangerous chemical includes a first container having a closed negative pressure chamber and an intake which allows outside dangerous chemicals to enter the first container and a second container installed and fixed in the first container. The second container contains a substantially harmless liquefied gas and has an opening which controllably communicates with the external environment. When the dangerous chemicals are leaking, the rescue device can be used to reduce the loss of dangerous chemical, alleviate the harm to the environment and human, and avoid the possible disastrous consequences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Beijing Tianqing Chemicals Co, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuechun Jin, Junbo Zhang, Chuan Jin
  • Patent number: 8443822
    Abstract: A method for detecting a breach in an irrigation line (32) of an irrigation system (10) includes comparing a fluid condition at a first point along the irrigation line (32) with the fluid condition at a second point located at an irrigation unit (20) to determine whether a disparity of at least a predetermined percentage in the fluid conditions exists. The fluid condition can include a measurement of irrigation fluid pressure, quantity of irrigation fluid (19), rate of flow of the irrigation fluid (19), voltage and/or electrical current through the irrigation fluid (19). The method can include selectively monitoring the fluid condition at the irrigation unit (20) over time using a main control system (22). In another embodiment, the method includes comparing the fluid condition at the first point along the irrigation line (32) with the fluid condition at each of a plurality of second points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventor: Norman Ivans
  • Patent number: 8439062
    Abstract: A system and method for detecting water in locations in homes and buildings where it should not be present, and responding by terminating water inlet access to plumbing in said home or building or the like and optionally operating a dump valve, in combination with an approach to periodically testing system operability and providing a signal upon a component performing a predetermined number of operations. The method can further include the monitoring of signals and responding with maintenance and/or replacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventors: Keith J. Ziegenbein, Zachary J. Ziegenbein, Zebadiah W. Ziegenbein
  • Patent number: 8418532
    Abstract: A steam generator, used in a helical coil type steam generator for a sodium-cooled fast reactor which has heat transfer tubes of a double-wall tube structure, with high heat transfer efficiency and a heat transfer tube damage detection unit that can detect on-line in real-time whether the heat transfer tube is damaged or not. The heat transfer tube of a steam generator for a sodium-cooled fast reactor, includes an inner tube formed with a first material; an outer tube formed with a second material that is in close contact with the inner tube and which has a thermal expansion coefficient less than that of the first material; and a plurality of helium flow grooves formed between the inner tube and the outer tube along a lengthwise direction of the heat transfer tube for flowing helium gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignees: Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Co., Ltd., Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute
    Inventors: Ho-Yun Nam, Byoung-Hae Choi, Byung-Ho Kim, Jong-Man Kim
  • Patent number: 8402984
    Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for detecting water in locations in homes and buildings etc. where it should not be present, and responding by terminating water inlet access to plumbing in the home or building etc., and by opening a pressure dump valve to relieve leak promoting pressure remaining in the plumbing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventors: Keith J. Ziegenbein, Zachary J. Ziegenbein, Zebadiah W. Ziegenbein
  • Patent number: 8333210
    Abstract: A method for isolating a leak in a closed-volume liquid system comprises circulating a fluid through a plurality of isolatable zones and a non-isolatable zone in a closed-volume liquid system, detecting a leak in the closed-volume liquid system, isolating all of the isolatable zones from the non-isolatable zone, sequentially detecting if the leak is present in the non-isolatable zone and each of isolatable zones, and taking corrective action after the leak is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Karl P. Henkel, Kurt J. Doughty, Daniel Uttberg, Eric A. Rohrbach, Terrance R. Snider
  • Patent number: 8201572
    Abstract: A water supply control apparatus for use in homes or other structures is provided that incorporates a radio frequency transmitter and a receiver regulating the open or closed state of an electrical solenoid valve in fluid communication with a structure's water supply. A by-pass switch enabling manual regulation of the solenoid valve is mounted on the valve itself. Also provided is a method of controlling the flow of water supplied to a structure utilizing radio frequency pulse broadcasts to regulate the open or closed state of the solenoid valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Inventor: Stanley H. Segal
  • Publication number: 20120024397
    Abstract: System and method for controlling leakage and/or testing of pipe systems and discharge points for incompressible fluids, said system including one or more automatic valve arrangements (10) arranged in a pipe system in connection with the fluid supply to a processing plant or building comprising rooms (16) having one or more discharge points (17) to open and close the fluid supply. The system includes a control device (13) provided with communication devices and arrangements (24) to detect activity in rooms (16) with discharge points (17) or the processing plant. The system comprises a pressure control arrangement (20) arranged between the automatic valve arrangement (10) and rooms (16) having discharge points (17) or the processing plant. The pressure control arrangement (20) is arranged for increasing the pressure in the pipe system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: VEIT HOLDING AS
    Inventor: Vemund Eithun
  • Patent number: 8042580
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for capturing and containing SF6 gas leakage from a gas enclosure. The apparatus includes a portage flexible gas storage container of material which is substantially impermeable to SF6 gas. The container includes a gas inlet which is adapted to be coupled in a sealable manner to a surface surrounding a leakage source thereby capturing the SF6 gas in the container. The container inflates under pressure from the captured gas in order to accommodate up to a predetermined capacity of SF6 gas. The apparatus can be adapted to act as a container for transporting SF6 gas from a gas source to an enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Golden Triangle Enterprises Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Anthony Stokes
  • Patent number: 7954505
    Abstract: A mobile, emergency apparatus that can be used to minimize the flood damage to the property in rooms that experience ceiling or roof water leaks includes: (a) a container that has exterior and interior surfaces that include a bottom and sidewalls with free edges that form the rim of an opening to the container's interior surface which also includes an aperture, (b) a plurality of hinges that are attached proximate the container's rim, (c) a plurality of extendible leashes that are attached to the hinges and with each of these leashes having a free end to which is attached an anchor, and (d) a liquid impermeable membrane that has an outer edge and an opening, with this opening having an edge that is attached around the perimeter of the container's aperture, and wherein the container, membrane and hose are sized so that the membrane and hose are storable in the container when the apparatus is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Matthew Odachowski
  • Patent number: 7948388
    Abstract: A leak detector apparatus and system for use with a drop ceiling having a grid-work of ceiling tiles. The leak detector apparatus includes an electrically non-conducting tile body that is shaped and dimensioned to rest on top of a ceiling tile. The tile body comprises multiple layers of non-conducting closed cell-foam and has a plurality of water collector cups formed or positioned therein. Spaced-apart sensor wires are provided and form an electrical grid that extends between the multiple layers of the tile body and the sensor wires generally extend through the water collector cups. The sensor wires are operative to sense the presence of water in the cups. An electronics module is provided at each tile body and is associated with the sensor wires and electrically coupled to the sensor wires for triggering an alert in response to the presence of water in one or more of the cups. A master controller is in communication with the local processors for monitoring the function and operation of each local processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventors: Joseph Ralph McGinty, Derek Phelps Gardner
  • Patent number: 7926504
    Abstract: A valve assembly for use in detecting leaks is provided. The valve assembly includes a valve, a power source coupled to the valve, and a sensor coupled to the power source. The sensor is configured to close the valve when exposed to a predetermined amount of fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Sharp Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Terry D. Sharp
  • Patent number: 7909053
    Abstract: Condensation draining system and method for valve stem protectors comprising an actuator and a stem protector assembly structured in combination to provide a drain and an opening for draining condensation from inside the assembly to outside the combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Emerson Process Management Valve Automation, Inc.
    Inventor: Lynn H. Elliott
  • Patent number: 7900647
    Abstract: Water leak detection and prevention systems and methods in which water is only delivered to the water pipes in the building when a faucet or appliance demands water and water is delivered through a normally closed shut off water valve. During the period that the main water is shut off, the water pressure in the water pipes is continuously monitored to detect a water leak in the building. Detection of a leak causes an alarm to be sounded and a continued closure of the shut off valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Paul G Tornay
  • Patent number: 7854236
    Abstract: Method of assembling a vacuum insulated piping run for conducting a cryogenic fluid in which piping sections are produced in a first location and then assembled in a second location into a piping run. Each of the piping sections incorporates an outer cylindrical casing and an inner pipe for transport of the cryogenic fluid to form an inner annular region for containing insulation that can be radiation shield insulation and aerogel blankets. The piping sections are joined by welding the ends of the inner pipes together and then joining the outer cylindrical casing by a shell-like section. Points of connections are tested by vacuum testing techniques as each of the connections is made. Thereafter, the annular region is purged with a condensable gas such as carbon dioxide and subjected to a subatmospheric pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard John Jibb, Wevone C. Hobbs, Robert W. Fix, Michael T. Marshall, Susan Renee Kelley
  • Patent number: 7716967
    Abstract: A leak detector sleeve allows performing leak detection at a flanged joint. The leak detector sleeve is made of elastomeric material that allows achieving a gas-tight seal when the leak detector sleeve encircles a flanged joint. The leak detector sleeve includes a hole that communicates with a gap in the flanged joint, thereby allowing the tip of a sniffer probe to be placed in or near the hole to detect whether the flanged joint is leaking. The leak detector sleeve is made of material that will withstand the operating temperature of the flanged joint without becoming hardened or brittle. A method for detecting a leak using the leak detector sleeve allows for efficiently and conveniently detecting leaks. In addition, the sleeve may be easily used and reused without the adverse effects or intensive manual labor required in the prior art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: WEW LLC
    Inventors: John Martin Woods, Robert Stephen Elbert, Daniel J. Wimer
  • Patent number: 7699069
    Abstract: A valve apparatus has a valve (1), an actuator (2) and a leakage sensor (3). A body (4) of the valve has first and second valve chambers (6, 8) connected to respective valve ports (10 & 12, 14 & 16) and joined by an intermediate passage (18). The valve can be set by the actuator to any one of three valve configurations. In an ‘open’ configuration the intermediate passage is open to interconnect the first and second chambers. In a ‘closed’ configuration, the intermediate passage is closed by first and second seals (24, 26) seated at respective locations in the passage to seal respectively between the first and second chambers and a leakage chamber (28) at the portion of the intermediate passage between the two seals. In a ‘cleaning’ configuration one of the seals is unseated to connect a respective one of the first and second chambers to the leakage chamber, while the other seal remains seated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Tyco Flow Control Keystone Hygenic Valve Division
    Inventor: Shane Michael Mason
  • Patent number: 7665480
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to methods and devices for conveying or containing fluids under pressure in which seals are provided with a defined path to vent fluid in the event of a seal failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventors: John Angelosanto, Joseph A. Luongo, Frank A. Rubino
  • Patent number: 7575015
    Abstract: An in-dispenser leak pan provided inside the housing of a fuel dispenser. The leak collection chamber collects any fuel that leaks from fuel-handling components located inside the fuel dispenser above the pan. The pan is secondarily contained by an outer pan or container such that an interstitial space is formed therebetween. If a breach exists in the top part of the pan, the captured leaked fuel will be contained in by the outer pan in the interstitial space. The interstitial space of the pan is drawn under a vacuum level using a vacuum-generating source to monitor for leaks. If a leak is detected, a control system may generate an alarm and/or cause the submersible turbine pump to stop supplying fuel, or cause the dispenser product line shear valves to close, thereby only stopping fuel flow to the individual fuel dispenser containing the leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Gilbarco, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent Reid, Ray Hutchinson, John S. McSpadden, Jeremy R. Baillargeon, David J. Bolt
  • Publication number: 20090188569
    Abstract: A method of patching a well or a pipe by hydroforming a tubular metal patch. A tool provided with a pair of inflatable packers is inserted inside the patch. The pair of inflatable packers are axially spaced apart from each other by a distance that is substantially equal to the length of the patch. The tool is positioned inside the patch so that the packers are in register with the end portions of the patch. The assembly of the tool and the patch is axially inserted inside the well or the pipe, and positioned in register with the zone for patching. The packers are inflated to a high pressure, sufficient for radially expanding the end portions of the patch and pressing them in a leak-tight manner against the wall of the well or the pipe. The packers are subsequently deflated and the tool is withdrawn. The method is applicable to the oil industry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: SALTEL INDUSTRIES
    Inventor: Jean-Louis Saltel
  • Patent number: 7549435
    Abstract: A fluid leak detection system includes a sensor, a control module and a valve module. The sensor is adapted to be placed near a fluid source, such as a water supply line of an appliance. The valve module advantageously includes a motorized ball valve or a magnetic latch configured to arrest fluid flow through a supply line. The control module actuates the valve module and an audible alarm when the sensor detects a fluid leak. The valve module closes a valve positioned along the water line to restrict flow through the water line until the control unit has been manually reset or until the leaked fluid has been removed. The control module also features user inputs to allow the valve to be manually cycled for cleaning, for instance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Onsite Pro, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott A. Walter
  • Patent number: 7500489
    Abstract: A contained pipeline and leak detection system includes a primary pipeline section surrounded by a secondary pipeline section and an interstitial space formed between the primary pipeline section and the secondary pipeline section. A pressurized fluid reservoir having a volume of fluid, and in fluid communication with the interstitial space is provided. The fluid in the interstitial space has a pressure greater than the pressure of a fluid inside the primary pipeline section. A sensor detects changes in the volume of fluid in the fluid reservoir, which are indicative of leakage or system malfunction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Ameron International Corporation
    Inventor: Joie L. Folkers
  • Publication number: 20090007968
    Abstract: Summary: The invention concerns a pipe network (10), with a hierarchical structure, for supplying water or gas and/or removing industrial water where the flowmeters (54-82) provided in the individual pipes are standalone units that are connected to a master flowmeter (52) in a master-slave network. The flowmeters (54-82) have their own, autarkic power supply system. By totaling the measured flow values in the lower-order pipes in the hierarchy and comparing the result with a measured flow value in the related pipe on the next highest level, a leak can be detected in one of the lower-order pipes. In addition, the invention also concerns a process for detecting a leak in such a pipe network (10) and a process for determining—with the aid of a computer—the operating life theoretically remaining for a renewable power source for at least one flowmeter in such a pipe network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2005
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: Endress + Hauser
    Inventors: Christian Knecht, Jean-Franco Tracogna, Fabien Hantzer, Urs Endress
  • Patent number: 7448402
    Abstract: Fluid storage and leak containment comprising (a) a fluid storage vessel comprising at least one vessel having an interior, an exterior, and an outlet opening between the interior and the exterior; (b) a fluid flow fitting sealably connected to the outlet opening and adjacent the exterior of the at least one vessel, wherein the fluid flow fitting is adapted for withdrawing reactive gas from the interior of the vessel; and (c) a containment enclosure having an interior, an exterior, an open end, and an extraction port adapted for the withdrawal of gas from the interior of the containment enclosure, wherein the open end is adapted to fit over and around the fluid flow fitting such that the containment enclosure surrounds the fluid flow fitting and is adapted to collect any reactive gas leaking from the fluid flow fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Lee Martrich, Gordon Leon Whitesell, Eugene Yin Ngai, James Francis DeiTos