Cap, Cover Or Hood Patents (Class 137/296)
  • Publication number: 20040129312
    Abstract: A transmitter and a water system or distribution protection device, such as a fire hydrant protection device, is disclosed. The water system protection device inhibits an unauthorized individual from accessing water from a water system device, such as a fire hydrant. The transmitter transmits a first signal when the water system protection device is tampered with. One or more sensing devices are provided that sense when the water system protection device has been tampered with, and cause the transmitter to transmit the first signal. The transmitter may also transmit a normal operation signal indicating that the water system protection device has not been tampered with. The first signal may be encrypted. The first signal may indicate the location of the water system device. An alarm, located at or near the water system device, may be activated when the water system protection device is tampered with.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventors: Joseph Cuzzo, William Spilfogel, Jeffrey A. Spilfogel, Donald C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6698261
    Abstract: A locking cap is selectively locked into place within a tubular opening, such as the open end of a standpipe used to charge a building sprinkler system. The locking cap has an expandable sleeve and a spreader member. As a key is turned, the spreader member is drawn into the expandable sleeve which is urged outward. The outward movement of the expandable sleeve increases a frictional component such that the expandable sleeve becomes frictionally locked within the tubular opening. The key has an end design that is complemented by an end of an actuator shaft such that the likelihood of unauthorized removal of the locking cap is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Knox Company
    Inventor: Dohn J. Trempala
  • Patent number: 6694783
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Knox Company
    Inventor: Dohn J. Trempala
  • Patent number: 6691732
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrant locking device to be used in conjunction with a fire hydrant having locking nuts which includes, a base arm having a first base arm portion and a second base arm portion. A top arm extends upwardly from the base arm and includes a top arm cap for covering at least one of the locking nuts. The first base arm portion is detachably secured to the second base arm portion, wherein the base arm and the top arm are secured to the fire hydrant when the first base arm portion is secured to the second base arm portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Mueller International
    Inventors: Leo W. Fleury, Jr., Mikail German, Ken Clark
  • Patent number: 6688326
    Abstract: A locking fire hydrant includes a fire hydrant body having an outlet port, a valve access hole, and an outer surface with a recess defined therein. The recess is configured to receive a locking cap for closing off the outlet port and the valve access hole. A locking cap for closing off the outlet port and the valve access hole is mounted on the fire hydrant body such that the locking cap is received in the recess defined in the outer surface of the fire hydrant body. The recess shields an interface between the locking cap and the fire hydrant body from access by unauthorized tools. A fire hydrant body, a method for restricting unauthorized access to a fire hydrant, and a method for locking an auxiliary cap to a fire hydrant also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: George Sigelakis
  • Patent number: 6684900
    Abstract: A device and method for installing yard hydrants which renders the yard hydrant easily installed and replaced. The device includes a buried adapter, a sleeve, and a cap. The buried adapter has an inlet for attachment to a buried water system pipe, an outlet for attachment to a valve body of a yard hydrant, a peripheral wall for attachment to a vertical sleeve, and a drain hole. The sleeve is preferably a pipe sized to receive the valve body of a yard hydrant. The cap illustratively includes an internally threaded collar screwed onto the top of the sleeve and two cover pieces locked to the collar against rotation, each cover piece having an upturned flange with semi-cylindrical recesses which clamp the standpipe of the yard hydrant between them. The device is attached to an underground water pipe, the yard hydrant is then inserted into the sleeve and removably screwed onto the adapter, and the cap is applied to lock the yard hydrant in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: John C. Kupferle Foundry Company
    Inventor: Daniel G. McKeague
  • Publication number: 20030150488
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrant locking device to be used in conjunction with a fire hydrant having locking nuts which includes, a base arm having a first base arm portion and a second base arm portion. A top arm extends upwardly from the base arm and includes a top arm cap for covering at least one of the locking nuts. The first base arm portion is detachably secured to the second base arm portion, wherein the base arm and the top arm are secured to the fire hydrant when the first base arm portion is secured to the second base arm portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Leo W. Fleury, Mikail German, Ken Clark
  • Patent number: 6553795
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Knox Company
    Inventor: Dohn J. Trempala
  • Patent number: 6536462
    Abstract: A cover is provided for selectively covering and uncovering a fire hydrant or the like so that the hydrant is protected and easily located and maintained. The cover has an upper cover portion formed to enclose the fire hydrant when positioned over the fire hydrant. The upper cover portion has a bottom portion terminating in a bottom perimeter. The cover also a cover securing portion adapted to be removably attachable to the fire hydrant. The cover securing portion has an outer peripheral portion adjacent the bottom of the upper cover portion and plurality of flexible securing tabs. The flexible securing tabs extend inwardly from the outer peripheral portion to a tab securing surface which contacts the fire hydrant when the cover is positioned over the fire hydrant and secures the cover to the fire hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventor: David G. Laugen
  • Patent number: 6487882
    Abstract: A locking cap is selectively locked into place within a tubular opening, such as the open end of a standpipe used to charge a building sprinkler system. The locking cap has an expandable sleeve and a spreader member. As a key is turned, the spreader member is drawn into the expandable sleeve which is urged outward. The outward movement of the expandable sleeve increases a frictional component such that the expandable sleeve becomes frictionally locked within the tubular opening. The key has an end design that is complemented by an end of an actuator shaft such that the likelihood of unauthorized removal of the locking cap is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Knox Company
    Inventor: Dohn J. Trempala
  • Patent number: 6474358
    Abstract: A fire hydrant safety box provides a user with a product that could be used to surround and protect fire hydrants from physical damage. The fire hydrant safety box includes a tubular member has an upper edge, a lower edge and a peripheral wall that extends between the upper and lower edge. The upper edge defines an upper opening and the lower edge defines a lower opening. The fire hydrant is extended through the lower opening such that the fire hydrant is within the tubular member. The lower edge extends into a ground surface for surrounding the fire hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Sigge Malkvist
  • Patent number: 6463953
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed comprising a first cover and an attachment device to which the first cover is connected, wherein the attachment device can be used to attach the first cover to a fire hydrant such that the first cover covers the first nozzle cap. The apparatus may also be comprised of second and third covers which are also attached to the attachment device and which can be used to cover second and third nozzle caps of the fire hydrant. The attachment device may be comprised of a first portion, the first portion substantially in the form of a ring. The attachment device may be comprised of a second portion, and the second portion can be connected to the first portion so that the first portion and the second portion provide a closed ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventors: Joseph Cuzzo, William Spilfogel, Jeffrey A. Spilfogel, Donald C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6112761
    Abstract: A fire hydrant locking device comprises a clamp which engages the hydrant stem and includes apertured butterfly wings which are engaged by a forked rod locking the stem in a closed position. The rod extends through a donut to engage a tubular recess in the cap. Spring loaded curved pins engage the rod within the tubular recess and extend outwardly through the cap. A wrench having a circular recess with inward projections engages the cap pins to permit turning the threaded cap and permit access to the locked stem for actuation of the hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Gary Scotto
  • Patent number: 6109292
    Abstract: A method and system for installing, removing and actuation a rotatable keyed actuation portion or lower valve stem portion of a fire hydrant or other valve device consisting of a first device for installing a rotatable keyed actuation portion, a second device for removing a rotatable keyed actuation portion and a third device for actuating a rotatable keyed actuation portion or a lower valve stem portion of a fire hydrant or other valve device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: Peter M. Fox
  • Patent number: 6089253
    Abstract: A fire hydrant security system for mounting on a standpipe of a fire hydrant wherein the hydrant has a mounting surface with holes therethrough and a bonnet mounted on the mounting surface, the bonnet surrounding a valve operating spindle assembly. The system includes a security gap which is surrounded by a protective collar spaced from the security cap to define an annular gap. An operating tool having a socket which fits into the gap and surrounds the security cap is used to couple the security cap to the valve operating spindle to open the fire hydrant. The protective collar is preferably made of forged ductile iron and is bolted to the fire hydrant by being bolted to a mounting surface on the standpipe or by being secured by bolts to the bonnet. The security cap is thus protected from blows by sledge hammers wielded by vandals and water thieves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Hydra-Shield Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry J. Stehling, Roy Istre
  • Patent number: 5957154
    Abstract: A fire hydrant adaptor and cover for attachment to the uncovered outlet pipe of a fire hydrant. The fire hydrant adaptor and cover includes an adaptor pipe having a first end with internal threads of attachment to the fire hydrant outlet, and a second end having external threads to connect a fire hose and internal threads to secure a cover plate. The cover plate is formed from a metallic material and is inserted into the second end of the adaptor pipe. The cover plate is removed by magnetized elements or by engaging a rectangular hole formed on the cover face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Anderson E. Olaker
  • Patent number: 5941274
    Abstract: A method and system for securing the exposed valve stem of the hydrant valve system in order to conserve valuable reserve resources and maintain street water pressure by restricting the unauthorized use therefrom; including a first device keying the exposed valve stem, a second devise containing the exposed portion of the keyed valve stem, a third devise for maintaining ease of rotation, a fourth device for securing the second device to the existing valve system, and a fifth device for engaging and operating the first device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Inventor: Peter M. Fox
  • Patent number: 5924437
    Abstract: A kit for the emergency shutoff of a fire hydrant after the hydrant stem has failed and a cap of the hydrant nozzle has been removed so that a jet of water is escaping from the hydrant. The kit comprises a two-part increaser and a shutoff valve. The two parts of the increaser are brought together from opposing sides of the water jet and fastened to the hydrant nozzle. The increaser has a flange that mates with the flange on the shutoff valve. The bottom of the flange of the valve is bolted to the top of the flange of the increaser until secure but not tight. Then the shutoff valve is dropped so that it rotates into position, momentarily intersecting the jet of water. Once in place, the shutoff valve is tightened and the water shut off by closing the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Inventor: Richard J Young
  • Patent number: 5810044
    Abstract: A system for controlling fluid flow from an outlet aperture, particularly a standpipe such as a fire hydrant. There is a first cylindrical collar element for location around the standpipe and connected with that element a second cylindrical element such that a space is defined between the two elements. There is a base provided between the two elements and a first outlet pipe for location above the standpipe. When the system is located about the standpipe fluid fills the space and stabilizes the elements relative to the standpipe. Fluid can then be directed away from the area of the aperture in the standpipe through the flexible pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventor: Namat L. Saidi
  • Patent number: 5727590
    Abstract: A tamper resistant construction for preventing unauthorized actuation of the hydrant nut of a fire hydrant by causing any lateral pounding or upward forces applied to the tamper resistant construction to be transmitted directly to the hydrant body cover of the fire hydrant including a packing nut threaded into the hydrant body cover proximate the hydrant nut, a hydrant nut actuating body located within the packing nut and mounted on the hydrant nut in turning relationship therewith, a shroud permanently or removably rotatably mounted on the packing nut in closely spaced relationship to a cap rotatably mounted on the hydrant nut actuating body, and a configuration on the hydrant nut actuating body between the cap and the shroud for receiving a special wrench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Assignee: McGard, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley J. Julicher, Thomas R. Lanham
  • Patent number: 5722450
    Abstract: A tamper resistant construction for a fire hydrant including a hydrant nut actuating body for mounting on a hydrant nut, a shroud rotatably mounted on a first end portion of the hydrant nut actuating body, a cap rotatably mounted on a second end portion of the hydrant nut actuating body, a wrench-receiving portion on the hydrant nut actuating body, a spring mounted within the hydrant nut actuating body and secured to the cap for biasing the cap over the wrench-receiving portion, and a specialized wrench for retracting the cap and engaging the wrench-receiving portion on the hydrant nut actuating body to thereby turn the hydrant nut actuating body and a hydrant nut coupled thereto. The shroud may be removably mounted on the hydrant nut actuating body to permit access to set screws which secure the hydrant nut actuating body to the hydrant nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: McGard, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley J. Julicher
  • Patent number: 5664597
    Abstract: A cover is provided for placing over an article fixed to a surface. The cover is particularly useful for covering a fire hydrant and identifying the fire hydrant in the winter months in a climate accustomed to great depths of snow which normally would cover or otherwise conceal the fire hydrant. The cover has an open end and a closed end with an interior volume formed therebetween for enclosing the fire hydrant. The cover includes a strap or the like for securing the cover to the article being covered to prevent the cover from being removed from covering the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: William A. Miskiewicz
  • Patent number: 5632301
    Abstract: A tamper resistant construction for a fire hydrant including a hydrant nut actuating body for mounting on a hydrant nut, a shroud rotatably mounted on a first end portion of the hydrant nut actuating body, a cap rotatably mounted on a second end portion of the hydrant nut actuating body, a wrench-receiving portion on the hydrant nut actuating body, a spring mounted within the hydrant nut actuating body and secured to the cap for biasing the cap over the wrench-receiving portion, and a specialized wrench for retracting the cap and engaging the wrench-receiving portion on the hydrant nut actuating body to thereby turn the hydrant nut actuating body and a hydrant nut coupled thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Assignee: McGard, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley J. Julicher
  • Patent number: 5630442
    Abstract: A tamper resistant construction for preventing unauthorized actuation of the hydrant nut of a fire hydrant by causing any lateral pounding or upward forces applied to the tamper resistant construction to be transmitted directly to the hydrant body cover of the fire hydrant including a packing nut threaded into the hydrant body cover proximate the hydrant nut, a hydrant nut actuating body located within the packing nut and mounted on the hydrant nut in turning relationship therewith, a groove in the packing nut, a plurality of studs extending between the hydrant nut actuating body and the groove in the packing nut, a shroud rotatably mounted on the hydrant nut actuating body in closely spaced relationship to a cap rotatably mounted on the hydrant nut actuating body, and a limited space between the cap and the shroud for receiving a special wrench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Assignee: McGard, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley J. Julicher
  • Patent number: 5596893
    Abstract: A magnetic security device for preventing unauthorized opening of fire hydrant valves includes an inner cylindrical member which is fixed to a nut on the valve stem and an outer rotatable member which is coupled to the inner cylindrical member by a magnetizable element. The magnetizable element is attracted to move from an uncoupled to a coupling mode by a reaching permanent magnet integral with a special operating wrench. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, an intermediate sleeve is provided which is coaxial with a nylon sleeve disposed around the outer surface of the inner cylindrical member. In addition, the inner cylindrical member has a knurled portion which engages the surface of a recess surrounding the valve operating nut so that if the outer operating member is tilted with respect to the inner operating member, the inner operating member binds with the wall of the recess, preventing rotation of the inner operating member and of the valve operating nut attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: Hydra-Shield Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry J. Stehling, Roy Istre, Jr., Sheldon Levine, Horace E. Nichols, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5588460
    Abstract: A hydrant protector for preventing unauthorized use of the hydrant includes an internally threaded tubular shleld around the valve stem. To prevent a collection of trash in the shield and to provide more security for the hydrant a threaded plug fits completely into the shield and against the end of the valve stem and has, in the flat exterior end, a pentagonal keyway of deep grooves. A wrench having a pentagonal tubular socket to fit the keyway will also fit the valve stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Inventor: Aaron B. Meneses
  • Patent number: 5549133
    Abstract: A security device and system for preventing unauthorized access to and operation of fire hydrants. The security device includes a first end portion for coupling the device to a portion of a fire hydrant. The first end portion preferably is coupled to the hydrant by clamping it between an outlet port of the hydrant and a cap for covering the outlet port. A second end portion covers a valve control device of the hydrant to control access to the valve control device and thereby prevent unauthorized persons from activating it. An intermediate portion integral with the first and second end portions extends vertically from the first end portion to the second end portion. The system for preventing unauthorized operation of a fire hydrant includes the security device described above, a bonnet for protecting a valve control device of the hydrant, and a locking cap for closing an outlet port of the hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Inventor: George Sigelakis
  • Patent number: 5520210
    Abstract: A protective shield for a fire hydrant operating stub is provided which allows direct access to the operating stub by standard authorized tools without requiring the removal of any portion of the shield. The shield includes an inner ring with a peripheral groove which carries a snap ring. A cylindrical outer ring is carried on the snap ring and rotates freely on the snap ring without causing the operating stub to rotate. The outer ring preferably has two recesses formed in its surface to allow placement of authorized tools directly on the operating stub without removing any portion of the shield and the recesses are formed to prevent placement of standard pipe wrenches on the operating stub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: James M. Barton
  • Patent number: 5469724
    Abstract: The fire hydrant locking device has a cap (20) enclosing the operating nut (12) of the fire hydrant (6). The cap is secured in place on the top surface of the fire hydrant bonnet (10) by at least one arm (22) extending downwardly over and about the bonnet and extending beyond the fire hydrant barrel mounting flange (9). The lower end of the arm (22) is attached to the flanges (9 and 10') of the barrel (8) and bonnet (10) by bracket (26) and its pad lock (25) so that the cap, arm, and bonnet of the fire hydrant cannot be removed without first removing the fire hydrant locking device. Another locking bracket (80) is received on the outlet cap (17), of the fire hydrant hose outlets (16). Chain (86) is passed through each locking bracket encircling the fire hydrant, whereupon the ends of the chain are pad locked together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Inventor: Jerry K. Pollard
  • Patent number: 5404899
    Abstract: A single piece hat-shaped catchment device for preventing machine parts and tools from falling into the inaccessible interior of a mechanism during the servicing thereof. The catchment device includes an inner section defining a central hole and a plurality of radially disposed segments, and an outer section defining a stop for limiting the depth to which said inner section can penetrate into the interior of said mechanism. During servicing the device is pushed downwardly over the exposed part of the mechanism to form an annularly disposed catchment trough for machine parts and tools. After servicing has been completed and any dropped parts or tools have been removed from said trough, the device is quickly and easily pulled upwardly off of said exposed part to permit the mechanism to resume normal operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1995
    Inventors: Robert W. Zabel, Dean T. Stahnke
  • Patent number: 5383495
    Abstract: A security hydrant cap having a domed body adapted to be removed only with a specialized tool, and a slip ring surrounding substantially all of the body and mounted thereto so as to be free to rotate about the body. The slip ring and, preferably, the body are formed of stainless steel. Preferably, the slip ring and body are made of a 400 series stainless steel, heat treated to a Rockwell "C" hardness of approximately 43-47.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Assignee: Penn Troy Machine Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Paul G. Kennedy
  • Patent number: 5205312
    Abstract: A fire hydrant locking arrangement which is intended for utilization on a conventional fire hydrant. Moreover, also disclosed is a method of producing a fire hydrant locking arrangement through a heat-meltable locking ring which will inhibit the unauthorized opening of fire hydrants while facilitating the ready servicing of the internal components of the fire hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1993
    Assignee: Magna-Loc Valve Corp.
    Inventors: James K. Jerman, Guido Salvato
  • Patent number: 5201338
    Abstract: A water distribution system includes flushing hydrants having buried valve assemblies and a removable top stock carried from valve assembly to valve assembly. A vertical marker replaces the top stock when the hydrant is not in use. The buried valve assembly includes a valve urged closed by water pressure and an actuator rod extending through a spider in the top of a vertical barrel. A lock nut on the upper end of the actuator holds the valve closed even if water pressure is lost. The upper end of the vertical barrel includes an internally threaded adapter. The top stock includes a casing which is externally threaded to mate with the adapter and a second rod which is threaded to mate with the actuator rod. The hydrant is assembled by removing the lock nut and screwing the parts together while an operating screw is swung free, then swinging the operating screw into engagement with the second rod. A preferred embodiment permits water samples to be taken from the hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1993
    Assignee: John C. Kupferle Foundry Company
    Inventor: Daniel G. McKeague
  • Patent number: 5158105
    Abstract: An anti-siphon and freezeless water hydrant comprises a unitary cast metal housing which incorporates a hose bib, and a drain opening cylinder equipped with drain orifices and a drain valve seat. The housing is shaped and labeled to assure installation so that the hose bib is higher than the drain opening cylinder. A unitary valve stem includes an integral drain valve element which selectively engages or disengages the inside of the drain opening cylinder to shut off or open the drain orifices and a water valve element which selectively engages or disengages a water valve seat within the hydrant to act as a water valve. When the water valve is fully closed, the drain valve element opens the drain opening cylinder to permit water trapped within the hydrant to drain through the the drain orifices. The hose bib is equipped with a vacuum valve to prevent back-siphoning of fluids from a hose attached to the hydrant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1992
    Inventor: Scott T. Conway
  • Patent number: 5072750
    Abstract: Improvements relating to fire hydrant closures are disclosed in which a cap-shaped cover for the outflow port from a fire hydrant, and a tool for locking and unlocking the cap on the hydrant, is provided. The cap includes a septum-like strong plate which is freely rotatable with the cap, but which is fixed against axial movement relative to the cap. Such septum-like plate, including means for mating engagement with corresponding means at the outflow spigot. The plate further includes means constructed to become engaged by the tool; the tool having a grip portion and a mating portion with a corresponding portion provided on the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1991
    Inventors: Ariah Poms, Yaacov Poms
  • Patent number: 5033501
    Abstract: A fire hydrant cap and actuating tool for use therewith provide enhanced security for fire hydrants and increased safety when using the tool. The cap is forged of 8620 carbon steel; is provided with an internal steel lock washer of cadmium plate steel, and includes thereon a forged, external slip ring of 8620 carbon steel with lubrication between the slip ring and cap. The tool which is used in combination with the cap includes a gripper which fits under the slip ring to prevent the tool from slipping, a spanner wrench and a hexagonal socket with a screw for gripping rounded-off valve stems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Assignee: Hydra-Shield Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Henry Stehling
  • Patent number: 4936336
    Abstract: A tamperproof construction for preventing actuation of the actuating nut of a fire hydrant comprising a nut actuating body for receiving the hydrant nut in turning relationship, set screws locking the nut actuating body to the actuating nut, a shroud permanently secured on the nut actuating body by means of a snap ring so that it covers the set screws but is rotatable on the nut actuating body, a bore in the shroud for permitting selective access to the set screws, a key-operated plug in the bore, a cap permanently and rotatably mounted on an end of the nut actuating body which protrudes through an opening in the shroud, and a limited axial portion of the nut actuating body exposed between the cap and shroud for receiving a specialized wrench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 26, 1990
    Assignee: McGard, Inc.
    Inventors: Durham S. McCauley, John K. Waite, John W. Erwin
  • Patent number: 4827969
    Abstract: A cover encompasses a hydrant having a bonnet mounted atop an upper barrel having two flanged ends. The cover has a domed annular hood shaped to correspond to the bonnet. The cover also has an externally convex skirt depending from the annular hood. This convex skirt is sized to overlay and underlie one of the flanged ends of the upper barrel to encase it. The cover may include an axially seamed, tubular jacket and positioned to meet the convex skirt from below. This jacket is sized to encompass the upper barrel of the hydrant. An optional tubular boot can encircle the barrel between one of its flanged ends and the jacket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Inventor: Peter Lyasko
  • Patent number: 4825898
    Abstract: A protective device for fire hydrants comprises a generally domed shaped member having a shape conforming to the bonnet of a fire hydrant and including a socket configured to receive an operating nut thereof. The protective device has a diameter too great to be engaged by readily available pliers, wrenches and the like but may be actuated by use of a chain wrench or a friction wrench. The device includes no separate moving parts which may freeze or jam and may be retrofitted to existing fire hydrants by welding or brazing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1989
    Inventor: Arthur D. Vis
  • Patent number: 4791952
    Abstract: A hydrant includes one or more novel and improved features, namely: (1) a nozzle assembly comprising a nozzle and a retainer ring mounted from within the upper standpipe section of the hydrant; (2) an operating assembly defining an excess reservoir volume to receive valve stem lubricating fluid to prevent blocking movement of the valve stem; (3) a coupling assembly including a collar, a retainer ring for engaging one end of the collar against one standpipe section, and a retainer bar inserted through the collar and bent around an adjoining standpipe section; (4) a coupling assembly including a floating seal band carrying two seals, one of which seals against one standpipe section and the other of which seals against an adjoining standpipe section; (5) an otherwise conventional valve body but for a double-D valve body cavity in which a complemental boss of a valve member retainer disk is nested to prevent rotation therebetween, and also including a flat sealing gasket disposed between the valve stem and an ann
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1988
    Assignee: Halliburton Company
    Inventor: David F. Laurel
  • Patent number: 4776363
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hydrant comprising a trunk body in which novel valve means for opening the water main is positioned completely within the trunk body and wherein a novel assembly cap is required to activate the valve means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1988
    Inventor: Philip A. Avelli
  • Patent number: 4770203
    Abstract: A hydrant includes one or more novel and improved features, namely: (1) a nozzle assembly comprising a nozzle and a retainer ring mounted from within the upper standpipe section of the hydrant; (2) an operating assembly defining an excess reservoir volume to receive valve stem lubricating fluid to prevent blocking movement of the valve stem; (3) a coupling assembly including a collar, a retainer ring for engaging one end of the collar against one standpipe section, and a retainer bar inserted through the collar and bent around an adjoining standpipe section; (4) a coupling assembly including a floating seal band carrying two seals, one of which seals against one standpipe section and the other of which seals against an adjoining standpipe section; (5) an otherwise conventional valve body but for a double-D valve body cavity in which a complemental boss of a valve member retainer disk is nested to prevent rotation therebetween, and also including a flat sealing gasket disposed between the valve stem and an ann
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1988
    Assignee: Halliburton Company
    Inventor: David F. Laurel
  • Patent number: 4763686
    Abstract: A hydrant includes one or more novel and improved features, namely: (1) a nozzle assembly comprising a nozzle and a retainer ring mounted within the upper standpipe section of the hydrant; (2) an operating assembly defining an excess reservoir volume to receive valve stem lubricating fluid to prevent blocking movement of the valve stem; (3) a coupling assembly including a collar, a retainer ring for engaging one end of the collar against one standpipe section, and a retainer bar inserted through the collar and bent around an adjoining standpipe section; (4) a coupling assembly including a floating seal band carrying two seals, one of which seals against one standpipe section and the other of which seals against an adjoining standpipe section; (5) an otherwise conventional valve body but for a double-D valve body cavity in which a complemental boss of a valve member retainer disk is nested to prevent rotation therebetween, and also including a flat sealing gasket disposed between the valve stem and an annular
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1988
    Assignee: Halliburton Company
    Inventor: David F. Laurel
  • Patent number: 4736765
    Abstract: A hydrant securing device is adapted for use on a conventional fire hydrant having an exposed upper valve nut and a pair of caps each formed with a cap nut. The device preferrably comprises a one-piece steel yoke having a generally U-shaped configuration dimensioned for seating directly on the valve and cap nuts. The yoke has a a generally horizontal base formed with an opening dimensioned for location about the valve nut, and a pair of downwardly-directed arms, each arm having an opening dimensioned for location about one of the cap nuts. The openings conform generally to the shape of the nuts and prevent rotation of the nuts relative to the yoke so that the caps cannot be removed and water flow cannot be initiated. The yoke is sufficiently resilient that the arm portions can be elastically separated to permit simultaneous location of the openings about the valve and cap nuts and to permit removal of the hydrant securing device in the event of a fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1988
    Assignee: Camline Services & Supplies Incorporated
    Inventor: Marc Campbell
  • Patent number: 4727900
    Abstract: A tamper-proof cover for the operating nut of a hydrant. The cover includes a housing adapted to be positioned above the operating nut for covering the operating nut, the housing having an opening, a housing mounting device securable to the hydrant and engagable with the housing for securing the housing to the hydrant, and a locking device for removably securing the housing to the mounting device which includes a pin positionable in the opening in the housing and engagable with a recess defined in the mounting device, a locking member engagable with the pin and the recess in the housing, a frangible shoulder within the recess in the mounting device against which the locking member seats and which must be broken to remove the pin. Other forms of the tamper-proof cover and a tool for removing the cover are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1988
    Inventors: Joseph S. Dooling, Kenneth F. Vanek, Gene R. Vanek
  • Patent number: 4716922
    Abstract: A device is provided, designed to prevent unauthorized operation of fire hydrants by completely concealing the hydrant operating nut and weather shield within freely rotating sleeves, thereby rendering the hydrant inoperable. The hydrant is made operable by the use of a specially designed self-contained magnetic operating wrench. The hydrant again becomes inoperable when the magnetic wrench is disengaged. The device is externally mounted for easy, quick field installation with common tools, and requires no modification of the internal hydrant mechanism. The device is designed to be used on all hydrant makes and models having an operating nut extending vertically above the hydrant bonnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1988
    Inventor: John P. Camp
  • Patent number: 4690019
    Abstract: A tamperproof fire hydrant which can only be operated with use of a special operating means or tool thus preventing the opening of the hydrant by unauthorized persons for unauthorized use. The hydrant is provided with the usual polygonal end portion of the rotatable operating nut extending out of the top closure member. A dome shaped cap is mounted on the polygonal end portion of the operating nut for free rotation relative thereto, the dome shaped cap having a skirt with the lower edge thereof spaced from the tubular hold down nut or top closure member of the fire hydrant to provide a limited access space to the polygonal end portion for reception of the special operating means. The special operating means is also capable of being used as a tool to remove the nozzle cap off of the usual nozzle and to install the hose coupling on the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1987
    Assignee: Mueller Co.
    Inventors: Joseph L. Daghe, Dennis W. Humes, Mervin D. Stanley, Gary L. Bouc
  • Patent number: 4651771
    Abstract: A fire hydrant cap and cover assembly which is provided with a hydrant operating wrench therefor. The cap of the assembly has an interior threaded cap portion which attaches to the threaded portion of the hydrant water outlet discharge pipe. The exterior cover is rotatably attached to the cap (and rotates with respect thereto) through an annular groove on the cap, the groove engaging a ring bead fixed on the cover. A pentagonal shaped wrench is inserted into the pentagonal shaped recessed portion in the cap by way of a circular opening in the exterior of the cover to engage the cap. Through rotation of the cap, its interior threaded portion can be unscrewed from the threaded hydrant water outlet discharge pipe to enable the removal of the cap and cover assembly. This arrangement prevents tampering with the hydrant water discharge pipe. The cap recessed portion is provided with a fluid drain and vent aperture communicating with the hydrant valve and indication of leaking on the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1987
    Inventors: Daniel W. Borenstein, Arnold L. Borenstein
  • Patent number: 4633896
    Abstract: An operating nut construction for a fire hydrant including a body member having a lower tapped portion for threadably receiving a fire hydrant valve rod, a sleeve rotatably mounted on the body member against axial movement, a cap rotatably mounted on the body member against axial movement, a narrow gap between the sleeve and the cap, and a plurality of shallow depressions in the body member aligned with the gap for reception of a specialized wrench having narrow shoulders thereon to turn the body member. The rotation of the sleeve or the cap or both will not turn the body member because they are rotatably mounted thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1987
    Assignee: McGard, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary R. Bainbridge, Lewis D. McCauley, Jeffrey R. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 4617956
    Abstract: A control means for ground hydrants is disclosed for use in combination with a conventional freezeless ground hydrant having an elongated vertical housing with a valve means at the lower end thereof to control the inflow of pressurized water. The valve means includes an elongated control rod that extends upwardly through the housing. A fluid passageway extends through the housing and terminates in an exit port. The control rod for the valve means is spring loaded in a downward or closed position by a tension-adjustable spring secured thereto. A solenoid means is mounted upwardly of the rod and is operatively secured thereto. An electrical timer is connected in series with the solenoid. When the solenoid is electrically actuated, the solenoid will pull the rod upwardly to open the valve in the bottom of the housing. When the electrical timer de-energizes the solenoid, the spring adjacent the rod will cause the valve to close.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1986
    Inventor: Otto H. Sievers