Abstract: Example aspects of an outer housing for a pressure monitoring system and a pressure monitoring system for a wet barrel hydrant are disclosed. The outer housing for a pressure monitoring system can comprise a sidewall shell defining an axis extending centrally therethrough and comprising an annular inner sidewall projection extending from a top end thereof; and a cap mounted to the sidewall shell, the cap defining an annular cap recess, wherein the annular inner sidewall projection is configured to engage the annular cap recess.

Abstract: Example aspects of a hydrant and a method of preventing tampering with a hydrant are disclosed. The hydrant can comprise an operating stem extending from the hydrant, the operating stem defining an elongate stem passage; an operating nut comprising a first end, an opposed second end and a central bore defined in the operating nut and extending from the first end to the second end, the operating nut further defining a dowel bore, the operating stem extending through the central bore, the operating nut positioned such that the dowel bore and the stem passage are substantially co-axially aligned; and a dowel pin inserted through the dowel bore of the operating nut and the stem passage of the operating stem.

Abstract: Method of removing a valve cap threadedly engaged with a valve body includes inserting at least one coupling rod from a cap adapter through a valve cap attachment hole to couple the structures, coupling an output drive of a torque multiplier with the adapter, and exerting an input torque on the torque multiplier to rotate the adapter and valve cap, the input torque exerted on the torque multiplier being increased by the torque multiplier.

Abstract: The hydrant monitoring system determines whether water is present in a dry-barrel fire hydrant. The hydrant monitoring system couples to a port of the hydrant using a hydrant port adapter. The hydrant monitoring system supports an operator interface unit mounted within a protective frame next to the hydrant on a fixed arm. A movable arm carries a distance sensor aimed downward that slides into and out of the hydrant on the fixed arm. The hydrant monitoring system is used by making a first distance measurement outside of the hydrant, making a second distance measurement inside of the hydrant, and subtracting the two to determine how far below ground level the bottom of the barrel is. If the bottom is not at a predetermined depth, a request to drain or service the hydrant may be initiated.

Abstract: Example aspects of a pressure monitoring system for a wet barrel hydrant, a pressure monitoring and leak detection system for a wet barrel hydrant, and a method for using a pressure monitoring and leak detection system are disclosed. The pressure monitoring system for a wet barrel hydrant can comprise a pressure sensor assembly comprising a pressure sensor and a connector, the pressure sensor configured to measure the pressure of a fluid received in the wet barrel hydrant, the connector configured to attach the pressure monitoring system to the wet barrel hydrant; a mounting flange coupled to the pressure sensor assembly; a main PCB configured to process pressure data measured by the pressure sensor; an antenna configured to send a signal representative of the pressure data; and a housing coupled to the mounting flange, the housing enclosing the processor and the antenna.

Abstract: A system including an active ventilation device and a system controller. The active ventilation device is installed in an underground vault and generates an exhaust flow from the vault having an exhaust rate. The system controller is configured to determine that a reading received from a selected gas sensor indicates that a manhole event is occurring, and instruct the active ventilation device to change the exhaust rate when the reading indicates that the manhole event is occurring. The system controller is configured to receive at least one sensor reading after the exhaust rate has been changed, determine whether the selected gas sensor is exhibiting drift based at least in part on the sensor reading(s), and perform an action when the system controller determines the selected gas sensor is not exhibiting drift. The action includes notifying a user and/or instructing the active ventilation device to alter the exhaust rate.

Abstract: A fire hydrant nozzle includes an annular sleeve, which has an annular wall, an inlet end, and an outlet end. The inlet end has a fire hydrant connection element extending from the inlet end and configured to couple with a fire hydrant outlet. The fire hydrant connection element has a portion protruding radially inward, the portion protruding radially inward configured to be moved with respect to the outlet end to connect with the fire hydrant outlet. Another embodiment includes an inlet end and an outlet end, the outlet end configured to couple with a fire hose, the inlet end having a fire hydrant connection element and a first portion with a wall thickness less than a wall thickness of the outlet end. The first portion of the inlet end is configured to be bent to facilitate movement of the fire hydrant connection element into connection with a fire hydrant.

Abstract: A self-centering valve adapter connection assembly includes a first equipment flange that is connected to a second equipment flange with an adapter ring. The adapter ring includes a first longitudinal flange with a tapered inner surface and a cylindrical outer surface. The adapter ring aids in centering the first and second equipment flanges while smoothing a fluid flow corridor between the first equipment flange and the second equipment flange.

Abstract: A fire hydrant bonnet cover made of an elastic flexible material component formed in a shape substantially similar to a bonnet portion of a fire hydrant, and including a predetermined color associated with an identifying characteristic of the fire hydrant to which it is to be applied, and a reflective material applied to or integrated into the elastic flexible material component. Such fire hydrant bonnet covers can comprise an upper portion made in a shape of the bonnet of the fire hydrant, and a lower portion defining a cylindrical structure with a lip at a bottom edge of the lower portion to hold the elastic flexible material component onto the bonnet of the fire hydrant.

Abstract: A fire hydrant nozzle includes an annular sleeve. The annular sleeve has an annular wall, an inlet end, and an outlet end. The inlet end has a fire hydrant connection element configured to couple with a fire hydrant outlet, the outlet end has a fire hose connection element configured to couple with a fire hose, and the fire hydrant connection element has a portion protruding radially inward.

Abstract: A fire hydrant barrel includes a body having at least one wall and an anti-rotation pin opening through the at least one wall. The at least one wall defines an internal cavity. The fire hydrant barrel also includes a stem extending through the cavity of the body. The stem has an anti-rotation element, and the anti-rotation pin opening and the anti-rotation element are configured to receive an anti-rotation pin to lock the stem from rotating with respect to the body.

Abstract: A stop valve includes: a valve seat in a fluid flow path; a valve disc that contacts the valve seat and that closes the fluid flow path; a valve stem that extends along a center axis includes a first end, in a direction of the center axis, that is connected to the valve disc; a spindle that extends along the center axis and comprises an end surface of a first end, in the direction of the center axis, that faces an end surface of a second end of the valve stem, in the direction of the center axis; and a connector that connects the second end of the valve stem to the first end of the spindle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a flat belt (10) that is an open end belt to be fixed to a coupler (31, 41), in which the flat belt (10) contains, formed on both end portions (11, 12) of at least one surface of the flat belt (10), a plurality of projected portions (13) engageable with a plurality of recessed portions (33, 43) formed on the coupler (31, 41).

Abstract: An opening tool for a locking cap of a fire hydrant includes a collar with multiple protrusions that can attach to corresponding protrusions provided on an outer surface of the locking cap. The opening tool also includes a main support portion coupled to the collar, a guide supported by the main support portion, the guide including a shaft support, a pin moveably disposed within the guide and a cam lever rotatably coupled to the guide by a shaft. The shaft extending through the cam lever. The shaft being supported by a shaft support. The cam lever including a cam surface in contact with a first end of the pin. The cam surface including a first flat surface, a second flat surface and a curved surface that extends between the first flat surface and the second flat surface.

Abstract: An insulation system that includes opposing panels with a partial dead air space in equilibrium with outside air. In one embodiment, two panels are supported parallel to one another separated by a distance. Each of the panels has a plurality of openings. The openings on facing panels are offset from one another so that openings on the two sides are not aligned. The openings are small enough so that a small amount of diffusion can occur allowing the panel to breathe. The panels can be used in attics, over windows or part of a building. In an alternate embodiment, they can be made from flexible sheets and be used to prevent fire hydrants or other objects from freezing. When used in attics, the panels will support weight allowing them to be walked on or used to store objects.

Abstract: An insulation system that includes opposing panels with a partial dead air space in equilibrium with outside air. In one embodiment, two panels are supported parallel to one another separated by a distance. Each of the panels has a plurality of openings. The openings on facing panels are offset from one another so that openings on the two sides are not aligned. The openings are small enough so that a small amount of diffusion can occur allowing the panel to breathe. The panels can be used in attics, over windows or part of a building. In an alternate embodiment, they can be made from flexible sheets and be used to prevent fire hydrants or other objects from freezing. When used in attics, the panels will support weight allowing them to be walked on or used to store objects.

Abstract: A locking fire hydrant includes a fire hydrant body having an internal channel extending between a main cap recess and an auxiliary cap recess defined therein. A plunger assembly including first and second plungers is disposed within the internal channel. The first plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into a main cap recess and the second plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into an auxiliary cap recess. When the second plunger is actuated by mounting a locking cap on the fire hydrant body, one of the ratchet teeth provided on the back side of the auxiliary cap engages the second plunger to prevent the auxiliary cap from being removed from the fire hydrant body. A locking cap, an opening tool, and methods of securing an auxiliary cap to a fire hydrant also are described.

Abstract: A locking fire hydrant includes a fire hydrant body having an internal channel extending between a main cap recess and an auxiliary cap recess defined therein. A plunger assembly including first and second plungers is disposed within the internal channel. The first plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into a main cap recess and the second plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into an auxiliary cap recess. When the second plunger is actuated by mounting a locking cap on the fire hydrant body, one of the ratchet teeth provided on the back side of the auxiliary cap engages the second plunger to prevent the auxiliary cap from being removed from the fire hydrant body. A locking cap, an opening tool, and methods of securing an auxiliary cap to a fire hydrant also are described.

Abstract: An infrastructure monitoring system and method include multiple communications devices. At least one communications device is coupled to an element of the infrastructure.

Abstract: A protective-fire-hydrant-cover comprising an operating-nut-extender and a protective-fire-hydrant-casing. The operating-nut-extender is firmly coupled with an operating-nut of a fire-hydrant such that when the operating-nut-extender rotates, the operating-nut rotates therewith, the operating-nut-extender includes an inner-groove exhibiting a substantially circular shape. The protective-fire-hydrant casing includes a lock-mechanism therein, which includes a latch. The latch moves between at least a locked and un-operable position and an unlocked position. The protective-fire-hydrant-casing fits over the operating-nut-extender such that it covers the operating-nut-extender and the latch aligns with the groove. When the latch moves to locked and un-operable position the latch enters the inner-groove thus internally locking the protective fire-hydrant-casing with the operating-nut-extender thus locking the protective fire-hydrant-cover onto the fire-hydrant.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed herein for an infrastructure monitoring system.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for visually indicating the presence of a fire hydrant and the range of gallons per minute water flow associated with the hydrant.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for visually indicating the presence of a fire hydrant and the range of gallons per minute water flow associated with the hydrant by using a single-piece fire hydrant cover.

Abstract: A device for automatically flushing a dead-end of an underground municipal water distribution system includes an inlet for receiving pressurized water from the water distribution system, an outlet fluidly connected to the inlet conduit for discharging pressurized water from the inlet, and a control valve for controlling the flow of pressurized water between the inlet and the outlet. A housing surrounding the outlet redirects the water radially outwardly. An upper mounting plate locates the device within the housing. The upper mounting plate is mounted to an in-ground enclosure; releasing the upper mounting plate from the enclosure allows pulling the device from the underground water distribution system entirely from above.

Abstract: A locking cover plate can be selectively locked in position on a stortz pipe end fitting or can be unlocked and removed for access to the open pipe end. The cover plate includes a sliding plate that is driven laterally outward into a deployed state by rotating a drive bolt. The drive bolt is coupled to the sliding plate through a torque limiting coupling that transfers the rotation of the drive bolt to translating movement of the latch bar with a cam plate. Movement of the sliding plate is indicated through a front of the cover plate such that the user can identify whether the cover plate is locked on a fitting or simply placed on the fitting without the lock engaged.

Abstract: A heat transfer reduction apparatus and method for an article is disclosed that includes a first surrounding sidewall having a first base and an opposite first closure. The first sidewall, base, and closure all define a first interior, wherein a portion of the first sidewall is in contact with a first portion of the article. Also, a second surrounding sidewall that has a second base and an opposite second closure. The second sidewall, base, and closure all define a second interior, wherein a portion of the second sidewall is in contact with a second portion of the article. Further, a moldable insulating material is disposed within the first and second interiors. The first and second sidewalls form a separable clamshell interface to one another forming about the article first and second portions. Also included is structure for retaining the first and second sidewalls to one another at the clamshell interface.

Abstract: A locking fire hydrant includes a fire hydrant body having an internal channel extending between a main cap recess and an auxiliary cap recess defined therein. A plunger assembly including first and second plungers is disposed within the internal channel. The first plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into a main cap recess and the second plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into an auxiliary cap recess. When the second plunger is actuated by mounting a locking cap on the fire hydrant body, one of the ratchet teeth provided on the back side of the auxiliary cap engages the second plunger to prevent the auxiliary cap from being removed from the fire hydrant body. A locking cap, an opening tool, and methods of securing an auxiliary cap to a fire hydrant also are described.

Abstract: A locking fire hydrant includes a fire hydrant body having an internal channel extending between a main cap recess and an auxiliary cap recess defined therein. A plunger assembly including first and second plungers is disposed within the internal channel. The first plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into a main cap recess and the second plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into an auxiliary cap recess. When the second plunger is actuated by mounting a locking cap on the fire hydrant body, one of the ratchet teeth provided on the back side of the auxiliary cap engages the second plunger to prevent the auxiliary cap from being removed from the fire hydrant body. A locking cap, an opening tool, and methods of securing an auxiliary cap to a fire hydrant also are described.

Abstract: A multi-purpose reflective collar for attachment to a fire hydrant that increases the visibility of the hydrant to motorists and others, and that indicates the hydrant's flow rate, water source and pressure rating to firefighters and other first responders through the use of color coded reflective tape webs that can be removably attached to the collar. The multi-purpose reflective collar of the present invention is adjustable to accommodate fire hydrants of different shapes and sizes, and is useful in increasing safety and the efficiency of firefighting procedures.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for securing a fire hydrant, comprising a duct (3), a control pipe (4) having an operation end piece (5) at one end and a valve (7) at the other end capable of supplying said duct (3) with water from the main network, at least one connection (8) attached to said duct and capable of receiving fire hoses, said connection (8) including a sealing plug (9), said plug (9) including at least one first retaining means (15, 15a, 15b) capable of interacting with the control pipe (4) or with a wall of said duct (3) so as to prevent the sinking of the plug into said connection, characterized in that said plug (9) includes at least a second retaining means (13) for preventing the extraction of the plug from said connection and actuated by a locking device (12).

Abstract: A locking system is provided for interconnection to a hydrant. The locking system is generally comprised of a lock body and lock that work in concert to block the operation of hydrant components, namely a control rod and/or a stem screw, that controls fluid flow through the hydrant.

Abstract: This invention provides a fire hydrant security system having an inner cap with an outlet port on a fire hydrant in a fixed position which includes a member capable of extending from the periphery of the inner cap into a slot in the inner part of an outer cap wherein the member's position can be retracted and retained in the inner cap, wherein said outer cap can be attached to the inner cap so that the outer cap can spin freely with respect to the inner cap, and a key wrench that's fits over the outer cap for aligning the outer cap and the key wrench in a fixed position so that a magnet located on the wall of the key wrench can be aligned with a slot on inner wall of the outer cap and wherein the rotation of the key wrench causes the magnet to align with the member and to extend the member into the slot on the inside of the outer cap thereby joining the outer cap to the inner cap.

Abstract: A locking fire hydrant includes a fire hydrant body having an internal channel extending between a main cap recess and an auxiliary cap recess defined therein. A plunger assembly including first and second plungers is disposed within the internal channel. The first plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into a main cap recess and the second plunger is disposed such that an end thereof is capable of extending into an auxiliary cap recess. When the second plunger is actuated by mounting a locking cap on the fire hydrant body, one of the ratchet teeth provided on the back side of the auxiliary cap engages the second plunger to prevent the auxiliary cap from being removed from the fire hydrant body. A locking cap, an opening tool, and methods of securing an auxiliary cap to a fire hydrant also are described.

Abstract: A lock for fire hydrants includes a stem with an activating end (2), which at the top projects through a fixedly mounted top cover (1), said fire hydrant including a weathershield (7) to be mounted on the activating end (2). The lock includes a fastening means (5) adapted to be fixedly mounted atop the top cover (1) adjacent the activating end (2) of the stem. Further, a locking device (16) is provided for locking the weathershield (7) together with the fastening means (5).

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to methods and devices for providing a fire hydrant with a vented steamer port cap assembly to allow air and water to pass through an upper area of a fire hydrant. Various embodiments include hydrants with a vented steamer port cap assembly. In other embodiments, a secondary valve is included in the barrel of the fire hydrant to controllably allow liquid to flow through the hydrant.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for securing a fire hydrant, includes a duct (3), a control pipe (4) provided at the lower end with a gate valve including a gate (7) for allowing or preventing the water supply of the duct (3) from the main network, the gate having an essentially planar or frusto-conical upper face (3), characterised in that a locking element (10) is provided at the level of the upper surface (8) and can extend radially relative to the control pipe in order to prevent, in the locking position, the axial displacement of the gate (7).

Abstract: This invention provides a fire hydrant security system with an inner cap having means for attaching an outlet port of a fire hydrant in a fixed position which includes a member capable of extending from the periphery of the inner cap into a slot in the inner part of an outer cap and having means for retracting and retaining the position of the member in the inner cap, wherein said outer cap includes means for attaching the outer cap to the inner cap so that the outer cap can spin freely with respect to the inner cap, and a key wrench having means for fitting the key wrench over the outer cap and for aligning the outer cap and key wrench in a fixed position wherein the key wrench has a magnet located on the wall of the key wrench that becomes aligned with a slot on inner wall of the outer cap and wherein the rotation of the key wrench causes the magnet to align with the member and to extend the member into the slot on the inside of the outer cap thereby joining the outer cap to the inner cap.

Abstract: A coupler for a hydrant assist kit includes a single piece construction having an inlet, an outlet, a basin, and a drain, the drain above the inlet and at a bottom of the basin. A hydrant assist kit connects a water line to a hydrant with the coupler and a sleeve attached to the coupler to protect the hydrant pipe.

Abstract: Improvements in present day fire hydrants are presented. The improvement relates to a fire hydrant where the above ground structure is essentially removed and is replaced with an adaptable connection. The connection uses the same mounting hole pattern as used in the above ground hydrant. In operation, the adaptable connection is protected by a hinged cover that is opened to provide access to the adaptable connection. The adaptable connection includes a bayonet type connection where a portable fire hydrant is secured and rotated to start the flow of water.

Abstract: A nozzle attachment device for retrofitting fire hydrants with additional structure for reducing the potential that those with ill intent can foul municipal water supplies by introducing toxins or other materials into fire hydrants. Various embodiments include a housing with a channel and connection means for the fire hydrant's nozzle for efficient and cost effective installation, a seat and a valve within the channel which interact to close off portions of the hydrant otherwise available for receipt of toxic or other materials when the fire hydrant nozzle cap is unscrewed and open.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and devices for retrofitting fire hydrants with additional structure for reducing the potential that those with ill intent can foul municipal water supplies by introducing toxins or other materials into fire hydrants. Various embodiments include a replacement hydrant body having an enlarged diameter portion that can be installed to replace an existing hydrant body. The replacement hydrant body can include a secondary valve comprising a seat, biasing structure, and a restriction member to close off portions of the hydrant otherwise available for receipt of toxic or other materials when the fire hydrant nozzle cap is unscrewed and open.

Abstract: A fluid delivering hydrant providing a valve actuated assembly with enclosing shroud and water resistive doom handle assembly to protect the assembly from exposure to the weather while preventing entry of rainwater into a building structure upon the roof of which the device has been installed. The fluid hydrant also includes structures for preventing water or fluid from remaining in the hydrant after the fluid flow valve is closed. This presents possibly freezing of the fluid and damage to the system.

Abstract: The vented port-cap includes a check-valve, which admits air into the barrel of the hydrant when the pressure inside is lower than the pressure outside. After an inspection of the hydrant, the hydrant can be left to drain by itself, even though the port-cap has been replaced and tightened.

Abstract: A locking cover plate can be selectively locked in position on a stortz pipe end fitting or can be unlocked and removed for access to the open pipe end. The cover plate includes a sliding plate that is driven laterally outward into a deployed state by rotating a drive bolt. The drive bolt is coupled to the sliding plate through a torque limiting coupling that transfers the rotation of the drive bolt to translating movement of the latch bar with a cam plate. Movement of the sliding plate is indicated through a front of the cover plate such that the user can identify whether the cover plate is locked on a fitting or simply placed on the fitting without the lock engaged.

Abstract: A device and method for automatically flushing hydrants. The device is installed externally to an existing hydrant. The device comprises a nipple having an internally threaded collar for attaching the device to a hydrant outlet, a valve, a control for automatically operating the valve, and a lockable box containing at least the valve, the box having an outlet for allowing water from the hydrant to pass from the valve to the exterior of the box. The box functions as an enclosure and may be of any desired configuration.

Abstract: A fire hydrant protective cover and visibility marker comprising a hollow body having an interior space, a cap portion, middle portion and bottom portion, the bottom portion having an opening for accessing the interior space.

Abstract: A locking cover plate can be selectively locked in position on a stortz pipe end fitting or can be unlocked and removed for access to the open pipe end. The cover plate includes a sliding plate that is driven laterally outward into a deployed state by rotating a drive bolt. The drive bolt is coupled to the sliding plate through a torque limiting coupling that transfers the rotation of the drive bolt to translating movement of the latch bar with a cam plate. Movement of the sliding plate is indicated through a front of the cover plate such that the user can identify whether the cover plate is locked on a fitting or simply placed on the fitting without the lock engaged.

Abstract: A device and method for automatically flushing hydrants. The device is installed externally to an existing hydrant. The device comprises a nipple having an internally threaded collar for attaching the device to a hydrant outlet, a valve, a control for automatically operating the valve, and a lockable box containing at least the valve, the box having an outlet for allowing water from the hydrant to pass from the valve to the exterior of the box. The box functions as an enclosure and may be of any desired configuration.

Abstract: A detection and signaling apparatus is mountable in a fire hydrant to detect a parameter, such as unauthorized movement of a discharge nozzle cap relative to the fire hydrant. A housing carrying a sensor, such as a motion detector, is mounted inside of the cap. The sensor has an output connected to a transmitter. Movement of the cap relative to the fire hydrant activates the motion detector which generates an output signal causing the transmitter to remotely transmit a tamper detection signal and, also, a fire hydrant location identification code. A pressure sensor can also be coupled to the transmitter to sense water supply main pressure and water flow through the fire hydrant.

Abstract: A fire hydrant securing arrangement utilizes a magnetic detent to couple an outer body to a center post so that when a wrench with a permanent magnet is mated with the outer body, the magnetic detent connects the outer body to the center post. The center post has an end with a polygonal recess which complements the shape of the hydrant operating nut. The recess is within an insert that has a polygonal periphery engaged by a polygonal inner wall of the center post. The insert is interchangeable with other inserts having recesses of different sizes and configurations so that the securing arrangement is readily acceptable to fire hydrants having different operating nuts of different sizes.