With Aperture Forming Means Patents (Class 137/318)
  • Publication number: 20020185177
    Abstract: A digital pressurization compound terminal 10 comprising a high accuracy digital pressure gauge 11 sheltered in a silicon housing, main body 13 made of a high-resistance allow and dimensioned to be held in the palm of the user's hand, o-ring 12, control or HP valves 14, ring 15, regulator assembly valve 16, equipped piston 17, second o-ring 18, inferior body and handle 19, third o-ring 20, male quick coupling 21, screw 22, regulator setting wheel 23, purging female quick coupling 24, service female quik coupling 25 and on-off switch 26.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Manuel Roland Fernandez
  • Patent number: 6491057
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for installing a fluid tap onto a pipe or conduit containing pressurized fluid. Debris generated by cutting a coupon from a pressurized fluid conduit is directed though the apparatus and prevented from entering the conduit. The apparatus can be removed from the newly installed air tap and reused. According to the method, pressurized fluid from the pressurized fluid system is used to wash debris generated from the coupon-cutting operation through the apparatus along a flow path that includes a collection chamber and filter. A kit is also provided and includes the apparatus and a variety of interchangeable connectors and cutting tools to allow the apparatus to be quickly configured for a wide variety of tap, valve, and pipe sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventor: James Collins
  • Patent number: 6488894
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device in which at least two liquid or semi-liquid reagents can be stored separately. When used, the inventive device enables precise, chronologically defined, sequential reagent discharge in a reaction chamber by means of a linear movement without any prior mixing of said reagents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Biognosis GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Miethe, Dimitri Plaksine, Elena Gromakovskaja
  • Patent number: 6470907
    Abstract: The invention relates to an existing pipe cut-off method and slitting method, by which an existing pipe made of cast iron and steel can be cut off. With a cut-off method according to the invention, first, a part of an existing pipe 1 is enclosed and sealed up by a seal-up housing 2 in an airtight state, a cutting tool 30 having a plurality of blades 30c is accommodated in the corresponding seal-up housing in a state the cutting tool is attached to the abovementioned seal-up housing 2. Next, the cutting tool 30 is fed toward the center of the abovementioned existing pipe 1 while slitting the existing pipe 1 by rotating the cutting tool 30 by power of a prime mover, and the abovementioned existing pipe 1 is cut off by the cutting tool 30 by turning the abovementioned seal-up housing 2 in the circumferential direction R of the existing pipe 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: SuIken Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Sato, Hideshige Homma, Tamotsu Yamashita, Gumpei Yokoyama
  • Publication number: 20020148503
    Abstract: The invention relates to an existing pipe cut-off method and slitting method, by which an existing pipe made of cast iron and steel can be cut off. With a cut-off method according to the invention, first, a part of an existing pipe 1 is enclosed and sealed up by a seal-up housing 2 in an airtight state, a cutting tool 30 having a plurality of blades 30c is accommodated in the corresponding seal-up housing in a state the cutting tool is attached to the abovementioned seal-up housing 2. Next, the cutting tool 30 is fed toward the center of the abovementioned existing pipe 1 while slitting the existing pipe 1 by rotating the cutting tool 30 by power of a prime mover, and the abovementioned existing pipe 1 is cut off by the cutting tool 30 by turning the abovementioned seal-up housing 2 in the circumferential direction R of the existing pipe 1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Applicant: SUIKEN CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Sato, Tamotsu Yamashita
  • Patent number: 6446662
    Abstract: The device of the invention comprises a combination hand cylinder drill and tool for installing a stopper plug for drilling and/or plugging a hole in a sealed fluid container. The stopper plug aspect of the invention is used to insert and secure a stopper plug to close a hole in the wall of a storage container or a pipe carrying fluid under pressure. This permits removal of a defective pipe fitting such as a tee or a valve. The stopper plug includes a toggle or anchor for engaging the inner wall of the pipe at the location of the hole to be sealed shut. After the stopper plug is secured in place, the defective fitting is removed. The drill aspect of the invention is used to drill out a cylindrical hole in the pipe and/or fitting so that the plug can be installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Dennis J. Wagner
  • Patent number: 6416263
    Abstract: A piping structure of the present invention comprises an existing pipe and a seal-up housing. The existing pipe has a collection opening formed in the bottom thereof. The seal-up housing comprises two or more housing parts which are segmented circumferentially of the existing pipe. The seal-up housing encloses a part including the collection opening of the existing pipe. One of the housing parts is formed with a collection space and a drain port. The collection space serves to collect dirt or foreign substances through the collection opening. The drain port is provided for discharging the dirt or foreign substances stored in the collection space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Suiken Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshiyuki Sato
  • Patent number: 6397881
    Abstract: A member for a high pressure fluid or a member for a high pressure fluid with a built-in slider having higher quality which can be provided at a low price, and by which the generation of tensile stress in the lower end inner peripheral edge part of a branch hole can be canceled by compressive residual stress to be effectively restrained, the internal pressure fatigue strength in the branch hole part can be improved to be excellent in durability, prevent a fluid leakage due to the occurrence of cracks and then exhibit a sure and stable function, further only the addition of the pressing force applying process to the ordinary manufacturing process will be sufficient, and complicated equipment is not required to hardly cause the problems of an increase in the equipment cost due to an increase in the number of processes and lowering of productivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Usui Kokusai Sangyo Kaisha Limited
    Inventors: Kikuo Asada, Masayoshi Usui, Eiji Watanabe, Kazunori Takikawa, Ryuichi Kusanagi
  • Patent number: 6390118
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing a plumbing system in a more dependable and cost-effective manner. During the rough-in plumbing phase of construction, the drain pipe leading from the plumbing system in a building to the city sewer main or main sewer line is positively sealed off by a test cap or plug welded in the pipe at the location of the clean-out. Access to the test cap is maintained through the clean-out. Pressurizing the rough-in plumbing to test the same can then proceed knowing that if any leaks occur, they are in the branch plumbing on the building side of the test cap, and not at or in the test cap. Following successful completion of the initial test, the top-out plumbing job is completed, leaving the test cap welded in the clean-out or drain pipe. After the roof vents are in, the second test of the plumbing system is made, again knowing that if the system shows any leaks, they are the result of a failure in the plumbing work and not a failure of the test cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: John M. Mankins
  • Patent number: 6390241
    Abstract: An apparatus for lubricating a surface. The apparatus includes a cylinder having an interior wall extending longitudinally therethrough. The wall defines an opening. The apparatus also includes a lubricating fluid reservoir located upstream from the opening and a path of fluid communication fluidly connecting the reservoir and the opening. The apparatus also includes a valve located in the path of fluid communication. The valve is biased to close the path of fluid communication. At least one valve opening member is disposed in the opening, with the at least one valve opening member operatively connected to the valve. A surface to be lubricated is insertable into the opening such that the surface engages the at least one valve opening member. The at least one valve opening member opens the valve, allowing the fluid to flow downstream from the reservoir, through the path of fluid communication and to the opening to the surface to be lubricated. A method of lubricating the surface is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Siemens Automotive Corporation
    Inventor: Edward J. Nemie, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6381821
    Abstract: Emitter barb installation tool 20 has driving mechanism 24, emitter barb feeder magazine 26 and pipe support 22. Pipe support 22 holds and supports a pipe 5. Feeder magazine 26 holds and feeds emitter barbs 10. Feeder magazine 26 places one of the emitter barbs 10 into a driving position. Driving mechanism 24 drives the emitter barb 10 from the driving position towards and into the pipe 5 held and supported by the pipe support 22. After the one barb 10 has been driven into the pipe 5, the pipe 5 with installed barb 10 is released from the tool 20. Another emitter barb 10 in the feeder magazine 26 is then automatically located into the driving position for the next installation into a pipe 5. This installation process automatically and continuously repeats for insertion of additional emitter barbs 10. Individual emitter barbs 10 are detachably coupled to one another to form an emitter barb cluster 74.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: L.A.P. Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry A. Panyon, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20020051685
    Abstract: A tapping apparatus having a drilling device for producing an outlet on a medium-carrying pipeline, on which a tapping fitting is arranged, and having a drive and advance device for driving and advancing a drilling tool is proposed, a coupling and uncoupling mechanism being arranged for coupling and uncoupling the drive device to and from the advance device for the drilling tool. The tapping apparatus is of modular construction, can be dismantled into individual parts and is easy to operate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2001
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Inventor: Ulrich Frick
  • Publication number: 20020040732
    Abstract: A drainage valve tap assembly for connection of a branch line to a main line while simultaneously forming a freeze proof drain comprising a hollow body having a first end and a second end, a cutting tube attached to the first end of the body; a handle having a hollow interior, the handle attached to the second end of the body for rotating the body; and a resilient drain plug extending at least partially in the body for blocking off the flow of water therethrough under a water pressure and for allowing the draining of water therethrough and out of the drainage valve when the water pressure is cut-off.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2001
    Publication date: April 11, 2002
    Inventor: Lloyd Herbert King
  • Patent number: 6357472
    Abstract: A self-tapping tee for heavy walled plastic pipe such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or thick walled polyethylene tubing. The self-tapping tee includes a saddle for gripping a tubular line to be tapped, a coupling tap with a stem for poking a hole in a sidewall of the line, with the sidewall of the line around the hole stretched about the stem, forming a seal, and a removable mandrel for supporting the stem while the hole is being made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Tom King Harmony Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas A. King
  • Patent number: 6357471
    Abstract: A valve insertion method without stopping passage of fluid, wherein, first, a part of an already-installed pipe is enclosed air-tightly with a valve casing, a milling type cutting tool which has cutting edges on a free end surface and an outer circumferential surface thereof, and a gate being housed in the valve casing with the gate and the cutting tool fixed thereto. The gate and cutting tool are provided in positions spaced from each other in the axial direction of the already-installed pipe. A worker then feeds the cutting tool in the radial direction of the already-installed pipe as he has the cutting tool make cutting motions for cutting the pipe by the rotation of the cutting tool. The valve casing is then turned in the circumferential direction of the already-installed pipe as the cutting motions are kept made, whereby a cut groove cut in the direction of the range of the whole circumference of the pipe is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Suiken Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Sato, Tamotsu Yamashita
  • Patent number: 6343616
    Abstract: A drip emitter attaching apparatus for easily attaching drip emitters to a tube. The drip emitter attaching apparatus includes a drip emitter attaching apparatus for puncturing holes in a piece of piping and attaching a 45 degree drip emitter, a straight drip emitter and a T-drip emitter to the pipe. The drip emitter attaching apparatus comprises a housing. The housing comprises a first block portion. The first block portion includes a first end, a second end, a bottom side, a top side with a peripheral edge extending therebetween. The top side includes a elongated arcuate depression therein and extending between the first end and the second end. The housing also comprises a second block portion. The second block portion includes a first end, a second end, a first lateral side wall, a second lateral side wall, a bottom surface, and a top surface. The top surface includes a elongated arcuate depression therein. The arcuate depression includes a well extending therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Inventor: Charles R. Houtchens
  • Patent number: 6341619
    Abstract: The invention relates to devices for retrofitting a pipeline (1, 1′) which is under pressure with a fluid meter (2). The device comprises a branch fitting (60) with two sealing sockets (61, 62) placeable in a fluid-tight manner on the pipeline (1, 1′) and a branch socket (63). The branch socket (63) has an outer thread (64) onto which a lock fitting can be seal-tightly screwed. After opening the pipeline (1, 1′) by milling, a flow-guiding insert (50) is inserted into the branch socket (63) in a seal-tight manner which guides the fluid out of the pipeline (1) and returns it again into the pipeline (1′) after it has flown through the fluid meter (2). A temperature sensor (7, 8) can be inserted into the branch socket (63). By means of bladders (66.1, 66.2), which can be inflated by means of a fluid, the fluid flow through the branch socket (63) can be shut off. The device according to the invention finds its application in gas, water, and heating installations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Inventor: Ewald Beninga
  • Publication number: 20020007851
    Abstract: An existing straight pipe 1 is cut off at two locations by rotating two seal-up housings 2 each mounted with a cutter 3, to form two cutoff groove 12C. A straight pipe portion 1p between the two cutoff grooves 12C remains left without retrieval, to impart a flexibility and contraction and expansion properties to a pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Applicant: Suiken Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Sato, Tamotsu Yamashita
  • Publication number: 20010054439
    Abstract: An end-cap lockingly securable to the end of the pipe at the same time a secondary action such as a branch line is formed to the main pipe line. The end cap housing has an integral branch forming member to allow a user to lock the end cap to the pipe by forming a branch line on the side of the pipe with the end cap housing sandwiching the end of a pipe between a pipe insert and a pipe receptor in the end cap housing. The pipe receptor includes an insert having a sealing surface, which when engaged to the interior surface of a pipe, forms a leak-proof relationship with the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Publication date: December 27, 2001
    Applicant: King Technology of Missouri Inc.
    Inventor: Lloyd Herbert King
  • Patent number: 6321778
    Abstract: An apparatus for pipeline construction comprises a constructing means located on the lower part of the apparatus, which includes a chest and a unit for completing the operation of construction; a feeding means located on the upper part of the apparatus, which drives the constructing means to rotate and to approach to the constructed pipe, and which includes a main shaft having a central hole, a rod placed in the central hole, a drive means as well as a rod feeding means; a base of the apparatus, the bottom of the base and the top face of the base are detachably connected with the feeding means and the constructing means respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: China Liaohe Oilfield Huasheng Pipeline Research Institute
    Inventors: Jisheng Chen, Mingyi Li
  • Patent number: 6308726
    Abstract: A valve insertion method without stopping passage of fluid, wherein, first, a part of an already-installed pipe is enclosed air-tightly with a valve casing, a milling type cutting tool which has cutting edges on a free end surface and an outer circumferential surface thereof, and a gate being housed in the valve casing with the gate and the cutting tool fixed thereto. The gate and cutting tool are provided in positions spaced from each other in the axial direction of the already-installed pipe. A worker then feeds the cutting tool in the radial direction of the already-installed pipe as he has the cutting tool make cutting motions for cutting the pipe by the rotation of the cutting tool. The valve casing is then turned in the circumferential direction of the already-installed pipe as the cutting motions are kept made, whereby a cut groove cut in the direction of the range of the whole circumference of the pipe is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Suiken Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Sato, Tamotsu Yamashita
  • Publication number: 20010032667
    Abstract: A hollow tap having an axially outward extending cutting tooth so that when the cutting tooth is brought into rotational pressure engagement with a resilient tubing the cutting tooth cuts a hole partially through the resilient tubing leaving a coupon hingedly but securely attached to the resilient tubing to maintain the coupon in an out-of-the-way condition within the resilient tubing. Continued rotation of the tap within a saddle brings a sealing surface on the cutting tube into fluid tight seal with the resilient tubing to provide a branch outlet to the resilient tubing though the tap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Applicant: King Technolgy of Missouri, Inc.
    Inventors: Lloyd Herbert King, Glenn M. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 6286542
    Abstract: An improved method and article of manufacture for introducing a locator wire into an interior portion of a pressurized, or non-pressurized, subterranean or otherwise concealed plastic pipeline. The present invention introduces a locator wire into a plastic pipeline while simultaneously minimizing the escape potential of a transported volume, such as, but not limited to, gas, water, sewerage or oil. A locator wire feeding unit initially feeds the locator wire through a locator wire alignment coupling and proceeds thereafter to project the locator wire through a valve assembly, a locator saddle, and ultimately into a plastic pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Continental Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Eldon W. Morain, David S. Jordan
  • Patent number: 6284549
    Abstract: In a system and method for venting trapped gas from a reagent chamber in a reagent tube system and method, the system includes a valve insertion tool for inserting a valve in the tube so as to seal the chamber and enclose a reagent therein, and so as to vent trapped gas from the chamber. The system further includes a tube and valves comprised of materials for enabling momentary deflection of the valves for insertion in the tube. The tube and valve materials further enable the valve to remain in place to obstruct the flow of reagent from one chamber to the next upon insertion in the tube. They are further adapted to be readily displaceable with minimal focused force when separate dispensing or interaction and intermixing of the reagents is required for use thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Ventrex, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Guthrie
  • Publication number: 20010017159
    Abstract: A fluid supply interruption free cutting apparatus of the present invention comprises a seal-up housing and a drill. The drill has a milling cutting tool turned by a motor. The seal-up housing is of a structure suited to turn in the circumferential direction of an existing pipe. A first housing part of the seal-up housing is formed with a cutting tool insertion aperture through which the cutting tool is inserted and with a gate passage aperture through which a gate passes that is inserted for cutting off the flow of a fluid through the interior of the existing pipe after cutting of the existing pipe. The first housing part is provided with a first operation valve to open or close the gate passage aperture and with a second operation valve to open or close the cutting tool insertion aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Publication date: August 30, 2001
    Applicant: Suiken Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Sato, Tamotsu Yamashita
  • Patent number: 6276878
    Abstract: A horizontal cutting type-tapping machine has a vertically extending drive shaft and a pair of detachably engaged surface gears. The surface gears have a curved upper surface gear, fixedly connected to the drive shaft, and a lower surface gear. A gearbox is connected to the lower surface gear and converts a horizontal rotating force of the drive shaft to a vertical rotating force. An externally threaded shaft is horizontally mounted to a vertically rotating gear of the gearbox. An internally threaded sleeve is disposed in the gear housing of the gear box and engages the externally threaded shaft so as to be horizontally moved by rotation. A saw part is fixed to a front end of the internally threaded sleeve. An internal tube, mounted around the drive shaft, has a thread at its upper portion and a lower portion with a diameter smaller than that of the upper portion. A vertically moving sleeve is slidably mounted around the lower portion of the drive shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventor: Woo Kag Lee
  • Publication number: 20010010233
    Abstract: A valve insertion method without stopping passage of fluid, wherein, first, a part of an already-installed pipe is enclosed air-tightly with a valve casing, a milling type cutting tool which has cutting edges on a free end surface and an outer circumferential surface thereof, and a gate being housed in the valve casing with the gate and the cutting tool fixed thereto. The gate and cutting tool are provided in positions spaced from each other in the axial direction of the already-installed pipe. A worker then feeds the cutting tool in the radial direction of the already-installed pipe as he has the cutting tool make cutting motions for cutting the pipe by the rotation of the cutting tool. The valve casing is then turned in the circumferential direction of the already-installed pipe as the cutting motions are kept made, whereby a cut groove cut in the direction of the range of the whole circumference of the pipe is formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Sato, Tamotsu Yamashita
  • Patent number: 6260573
    Abstract: A pipe-drilling fitting for a medium-conveying pipe, comprising a housing which has a drilling stub, which can be fitted at an angle to the pipe axis, for drilling into the pipe wall, and a branch stub which is arranged at an angle to the drilling stub, a rotationally actuable cutting bush being arranged in the drilling stub, the cutting bush and the drilling stub having mutually complementary screw threads, and at least one sealing means for sealing the medium-conveying pipe with respect to the outside being provided between the drilling stub and the cutting bush, in which fitting the sealing means is arranged in the cutting bush on an external diameter which is significantly smaller than the internal diameter of the complementary screw threads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Georg Fischer Wavin AG
    Inventors: Ernesto Lehmann, Reinhard Muller, Bernd Schwarz
  • Patent number: 6257266
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the in situ repair or replacement of a pipeline, such as, a natural gas pipeline is made up of a transition fitting having a tubular section with means for temporarily sealing off that section, an expansion tool having an elongated handle control and an expandable portion insertable through the transition fitting and into an upstream pipeline to form a seal which prevents the escape of gas from the pipeline while one end of the transition fitting is being joined to the upstream pipeline. After the expandable portion is removed from the pipeline and the transition fitting, the tubular section of the transition fitting is sealed to prevent the escape of gas into the atmosphere as the fitting is being joined with the downstream or replacement pipeline. Once joined, the seal on the transition fitting is removed and the gas in the pipeline is free to flow through the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Samuel A Valdez
  • Patent number: 6216723
    Abstract: A self-tapping tee for heavy walled plastic pipe such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or thick walled polyethylene tubing. The self-tapping tee includes a saddle for gripping a tubular line to be tapped, a coupling tap with a stem for poking a hole in a sidewall of the line, with the sidewall of the line around the hole stretched about the stem, forming a seal, and a removable mandrel for supporting the stem while the hole is being made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Tom King Harmony Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas A. King
  • Patent number: 6216724
    Abstract: A safety valve to stop flow in the flow pipe (3), the safety valve including a drilling device (8) with its frame (6) to drill a hole in the flow pipe, a winding device (7) fixed to the frame of the drilling device and a band (4) wound with a winding device. The safety valve includes a sleeve to which sleeve a drilling device (8) and a winding device (7) have been fixed and the sleeve has been equipped with systems to fix it to the outside surface of the pipe (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: AB Grundstenen (Metal Patent WHSS AB)
    Inventor: Juhani Niinivaara
  • Patent number: 6202673
    Abstract: The invention relates to a valve self-piercing tap for a plastic tube with a plastic housing (1) which has a branch connection member (2) and holds a valve body (3), in which a blocking body (5) engaged with a threaded spindle (6) and carrying a punch ring (9) for forming an opening in the plastic tube is displaceably arranged to be moved into axial engagement with a valve seat (10) to block access to the branch connection member (2). To avoid sealing rings, the valve body has at least one circumferential groove (12) with a side (13) directed towards the outlet (11). The housing is injection-molded around the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Georg Fischer Rohrleitungssysteme AG
    Inventor: Lars Bunger
  • Patent number: 6199578
    Abstract: A fluid container draining device (10) for use in draining a fluid container, such as an oil filter (12) in a controlled manner. It has a drill bit (14) with a sharpened tip (16) and exterior channels (20) on its shaft (18) extending from its tip (16) to a rear region (22). The drill bit (14) is immobilized in an axial bore (3) of a drill bit holder (24) which has a threaded front region (26) which is preferably frustum-shaped. Located rearwardly of the drill bit holder (24) is a valve (42) which when opened up permits fluid to be drained from the fluid container (12) through the channels (20) on the drill bit's shank (18), through the axial bore (30) in the drill bit holder (24), and out through the valve (42).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: C.H. & I. Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Clark, II
  • Patent number: 6161563
    Abstract: A plumbing tool for providing a passageway through a blockage, such as a test cap or other blockage, in a fluid-carrying line. During the rough-in plumbing phase of construction, the drain pipe leading from the plumbing system in a building to the city sewer main in the street is positively sealed off by a test cap welded in the pipe at the location of the clean-out. Pressurizing the rough-in plumbing to test the same can then proceed knowing that if any leaks occur, they are in the branch plumbing on the building side of the test cap and not at or in the test cap. Following successful completion of the initial test, the top-out plumbing is completed, leaving the test cap welded in the clean-out or drain pipe. After the roof vents are in, the top-out test of the plumbing system is made, again knowing that if the system shows any leaks, they are the result of a failure in the plumbing work and not a failure of the test cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: John M. Mankins
  • Patent number: 6142165
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for installing a branch connector on a buried pipe for transporting a fluid, and to do so by means of a multi-purpose long handle from the top of an excavation. The apparatus comprises a bottom saddle positioner having a support structure on which there are disposed firstly clamping connection means adapted to the diameter of the pipe together with a support adaptor for supporting a bottom saddle, and secondly means for releasably fixing the positioner to the end of the multi-purpose long handle and situated on the side of the support structure opposite from its side on which the clamping connection means are situated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Gaz de France
    Inventors: Christian Wartel, Dominique Pfeiffer, Patrick Le Cointe
  • Patent number: 6142166
    Abstract: A tool and method for plugging a service connection to a gas main in preparation for removal of the service tee removes the perforator, mills the hole in the main to provide a smooth seat for a sealing plug, and inserts a gas-tight sealing plug into the hole. The tool of the invention is operable through a narrow "keyhole" excavation, which decreases the risk to service personnel and significantly reduces costs of repairing the excavation. In the preferred embodiment the tool is loaded with a milling bit and a sealing plug before attachment to the service tee. The tool head is engaged to the service tee in a gas-tight fit to prevent the escape of gas during the procedure, and an adapter plate is pivoted between three working positions to perform the three steps of the service connection plugging method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: The Consumer's Gas Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Pawel Kuzan, Jacek Wiercienski
  • Patent number: 6135136
    Abstract: An apparatus for recovering coolant from a motor vehicle includes an inlet tube with a sharply pointed end for penetrating a wall of a hose of the vehicle cooling system. The inlet tube is connected to an inlet of a closed container. An outlet of the closed container is coupled to a suction port of a venturi that also has a fluid inlet for attachment to a source of a pressurized fluid, and a fluid outlet. The flow of fluid from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet creates a suction at the suction port which draws coolant from the cooling system of a vehicle into the closed container. A muffler is provided at output from the venturi to reduce noise produced by fluid flowing form that output. Specific structures for the venturi and the muffler are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: UView Ultraviolent Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas L. Klamm
  • Patent number: 6131597
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for stopping or otherwise altering fluid flow in a pipeline at a desired location, originally without provisions to do so, and particularly suited for use with heavy wall pipes. The method and apparatus includes use of chip forming cutting tools that are carried in a circumferential orbit around the pipe within a housing assembled around the pipe. The cutting tools are progressively advanced into the wall of the pipe to cut two axially spaced circumferential grooves in the pipe wall. Thereafter, a shear plate with cutting edges coinciding with the grooves can be forced through the pipe to sever a coupon from it and thereby gain access and control over flow through it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: The Pipeline Development Company
    Inventors: Kerrigan Mendicino, Gregory D. Schroeder, Christopher S. Arthur
  • Patent number: 6126369
    Abstract: A tool for tapping from a branch pipe into a main pipe to establish communication between the pipes. The tool has a bit for cutting a hole in the main pipe which is secured to an upstream end of a shaft for transmitting torque to the bit. The tool has a branch-engaging member engaged to the branch pipe adjacent to the downstream end of the branch pipe. The shaft has a threaded section engageable with a threaded section of the branch-engaging member so that as the shaft is rotated, the bit is driven along the longitudinal axis of the branch pipe toward the main pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Stephen L. Jiles
  • Patent number: 6125928
    Abstract: System for controlling oil well fires by blocking the production or drilling pipes. A box incorporating a movable piston is fitted around the pipe. The piston carries, on its forward end, a drilling cylinder (3), which can be brought to the pipe by a hydraulic piston-cylinder arrangement. Subsequently, the drilling cylinder drills through the pipe wall and after that the drilling cylinder or a separate plugging cylinder (4) is left in the drilled hole and blocks the fluid flow through the pipe. The process is remote controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: AB Grundstenen AB (Metal Patent WHSS AB)
    Inventors: Tarmo Ninivaara, Tero Hurtta, Juhani Ninivaara
  • Patent number: 6105595
    Abstract: An automatic fluid valve (25) includes a drive member (32) having an aperture (43) and a driven member (54). The automatic fluid valve (25) also includes at least one torque transfer member (38) for transferring torque from the drive member (37) to the driven member (54) and at least one elastic member (36) disposed between the drive member (32) and the driven member (54). The at least one elastic member (36) is responsive to a force transferred by the driven member (54). The automatic fluid valve (25) also includes a fluid blocking member (30) disposed within the aperture (43) for selectively allowing or preventing the flow of fluid (100) through the aperture (43). The fluid blocking member (30) is responsive to compression or decompression of the at least one elastic member (36).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Co.
    Inventor: Sam C. Jensen
  • Patent number: 6095395
    Abstract: A friction welder drill and fuse fitting apparatus. This invention relates generally to a friction welder fitting apparatus and method for combining the operation of drilling a hole into a substrate workpiece and fusing a friction welding fitting onto that substrate in one set-up operation. The friction welding fitting (stud, shaft or other type fitting) to be friction welded to a workpiece, of either similar or dissimilar materials, or two circular shafts, can be friction welded together by use of a friction welder fitting apparatus that can first drill a hole and then weld a fitting in place, in line with that hole. The friction welder drill and fuse fitting apparatus includes the following integrally coupled components: a friction welding fitting, a drilling mechanism, an engagement mechanism, and an attachment means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: The Fusion Bonding Corporation
    Inventor: John William Fix, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6068019
    Abstract: A branch apparatus for a pipe and a branch method using the same connect a branch pipe installed to a place requiring a fluid such as a gas, a chemical substance and water to a main pipe through which the fluid flows. The branch apparatus for a pipe and the branch method using the same make a laying depth of the main pipe be identical with that of the branch pipe by horizontally installing a branch apparatus, and thus make the branch pipe receive both a low vibration and a small load from the ground. The branch apparatus includes a T-type pipe having a horizontal pipe whose both ends are opened and a vertical pipe connected to an upper part of a center of the horizontal pipe; a reinforcement plate welded to the main pipe for being welded to one end of the horizontal pipe of the T-type pipe; a flange which is welded to an upper part of the vertical pipe of the T-type pipe, and has female screw lines in a center thereof; and a plug coupled with the center of the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Inventor: Woo Kag Lee
  • Patent number: 6065488
    Abstract: A fluid-sampling tool for obtaining a fluid sample from a container. When used in combination with a rotatable drill, the tool bores a hole into a container wall, withdraws a fluid sample from the container, and seals the borehole. The tool collects fluid sample without exposing the operator or the environment to the fluid or to wall shavings from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Anthony R. Garcia, Roger G. Johnston, Ronald K. Martinez
  • Patent number: 6053362
    Abstract: A can-breaker including a first and a second clamping members pivotally connected with each other by a pivot member. The second clamping member is disposed with a thrusting section having a first fixing seat and a thrusting sting. An outer cover is fitted on outer side of the thrusting section. The outer cover is pivotally connected with the second clamping member. One end of the outer cover is disposed with a second fixing seat. A resilient member is connected between the first and second fixing seats. The thrusting sting is prevented from be bent or deformed. So, it can prolong the using life of the can-breaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: Hsi Chung Lin
  • Patent number: 6053199
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for recovery of oil from submerged tanks is disclosed together with a specialized cutting tool for attaching to and cutting an entry aperture into a submerged tank. The apparatus includes a surface floating vessel having a conduit (preferably conventionally coiled tubing) for receiving oil at the submerged tank and discharging the oil into the vessel. The vessel includes a source of hydraulic power for the remote operation of hydraulic equipment at the site of the submerged tank. Two points of entry are made in each tank for the purpose of equilibrating pressure within the tank; in one point of entry fluid is pumped into the tank to replace the fluid that is removed. At the remaining point of entry, fluid is evacuated to a positive displacement pump, typically of the Moyno.RTM. variety. This pump discharges fluid received from the tank with sufficient pressure to overcome viscosity-induced friction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: Stanley William Ellis
  • Patent number: 6041810
    Abstract: A disclosed tool provides convenient use thereof. In a described embodiment, a refrigerant charging tool has two separately formed handles pivotably attached to each other. One of the handles has a container piercing member mounted thereon. A spacer is configured for attachment to the other handle, so that a relatively small container may be biased against the container piercing member when the handles are pivoted toward each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Technical Chemical Company
    Inventor: Newton Howard Dudley
  • Patent number: 6041806
    Abstract: A method for inserting a valve in a line, including polyethylene, PVC, plastic, and copper line, pipe, and tubing, without, for example, having to first shut down a line containing fluid under pressure, includes the step of providing first and second ball valve subassemblies that are adapted to be assembled over the line to form a ball valve assembly having a ball component within a housing component. The ball defines a bore, includes cutting edges, and is adapted to be rotated ninety degrees within the housing about an axis of ball rotation perpendicular to the central axis of the bore. The method proceeds by assembling the first and second ball valve subassemblies over the line, and rotating the ball relative to the line so that the cutting edges on the ball cut out a section of the line. In one embodiment, the ball is rotated ninety degrees within the housing about the axis of ball rotation so that the cutting edges slice through the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Maichel
  • Patent number: 6012878
    Abstract: A machine for use underwater and therefor subject to ambient hydrostatic pressure for tapping a pressurized pipeline has an elongated tubular tapping machine body with a boring bar therein that receives a cutter at its lower end. A passageway in a lower end portion of the tapping machine body senses the internal pressure of a pipeline after the pipeline is penetrated by the cutter, the passageway being connected to a pressure equalizer having communication with the interior of the tapping machine body to thereby balance hydraulic forces applied to the boring bar during a tapping operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: TDW Delaware, Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Hicks
  • Patent number: 6012475
    Abstract: The present invention comprises an improved method and apparatus, associated with a self-piercing valve assembly for mounting the self-piercing valve on a pipe and for constraining movement of the valve on the pipe. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a self-piercing valve assembly comprises a clamping assembly and a crimping member associated with the clamping assembly, which crimping member "automatically" crimps a pipe and forms a recess therein when the self-piercing valve clamping assembly is tightened about the pipe, and simultaneously effects a crimping member/recess interface (much like a key-and-keyway interface) which inhibits relative angular rotation between the pipe and valve. The crimping member is, preferably, a rigid, projection or tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Delta Engineering Holdings Limited
    Inventors: Peter J. Taylor, Leonard W. Strong