Abstract: A pipe joint that interconnects two pipe sections or bosses for relative rotational movement about an axis that is noncoincident with the axis of at least one of the bosses and preferably noncoincident with the axis of both of the bosses. A rotary valve member rotates about that axis and has a bore therethrough that does not coincide with that axis, although preferably that axis and the axis of the bore intersect in the plane of the joint between the pipe sections. A valve operator may be disposed either in the plane of the intersection of the pipe sections, or else along the axis of rotation of the blocking and regulating element, that axis being perpendicular to that plane. The angle between the axis of the bore and the axis of rotation of the blocking and regulating element, is greater than zero but less than 90.degree. and preferably about 45.degree.. The valve operator can be a ring or handle disposed in the meridian plane of the pipe sections, or an axially protruding knob.

Abstract: A dashpot is disclosed which can exhibit either push or pull damping depending upon the orientation of the valve members thereof. The dashpot includes a cylinder, a piston sealingly slidable within the cylinder and a piston rod operatively connected to the piston to move same. The piston is provided with a fluid flow channel which extends therethrough. A first valve member is operatively connected to the piston rod for movement therewith. A second valve member is mounted on said piston and has a fluid passage which communicates with the fluid flow channel of the piston. The first valve member is received within the second valve member in either a first or a second orientation relative thereto, thereby defining the direction of the damping force. The first and second valve members have parts which are operative, when force is applied to the piston rod in one axial direction or the other, to close or open the fluid passage respectively.