Valve And Meter Wells Patents (Class 137/364)
  • Patent number: 11879554
    Abstract: A valve design including a valve body comprising an aperture through the body is disclosed. The valve includes a shaft secured to a disc with a clamping connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignee: DeZURIK, Inc.
    Inventors: John B. Dorn, Kyle M. Sand, Nicholas K. Thorpe, Daniel Joseph Towner
  • Patent number: 11833536
    Abstract: A cover for protecting ground-installed structures includes a tube and a flanged portion. The tube defines an opening for receiving the ground-installed structure therein. The tube is formed by a circumferential wall having at least one removable formed therein. Each of the removables is configured to be selectively removed to promote entry of a fluid line or cable into the opening for connection to the ground-installed structure. A flanged portion extends radially outwardly from the tube with the flanged portion including at least one separation feature for changing a perimeter shape of the flanged portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: GRASS HOLE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kenneth Joseph Kwiatkowski
  • Patent number: 11421791
    Abstract: A tee union ball drain valve member utilizes a first valve member and a second valve member. The first valve member is positioned at the intersection of the third passageway of the valve body and the drain path. The second valve member is located in the drain path. The valve body is coupled to a tee union. The first valve member and second valve member permit draining of the valve body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2022
    Assignee: NIBCO Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher W. Mason
  • Patent number: 11306544
    Abstract: A well pad construction system includes a construction area, surface compaction equipment to compact the construction area, an excavator disposed at the construction area and movable to generate an excavated area, a cellar disposed in the excavated area, controlled low-strength material (CLSM), and backfill equipment disposed around the excavated area. The backfill equipment is moveable over the construction area to pour CLSM into a gap between the cellar and surrounding medium in the excavated area for holding the cellar in place and providing a firm well pad from which a rig may operate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Zakariya Saleh Al-Helal, Carlos Ernesto Acero, Ali Muhammed Al-Ali, Sami Ali Al-Ghamdi
  • Patent number: 10605031
    Abstract: A modular well containment cellar system having a bottom portion, two co-planar half-panels joined to the bottom portion and separated by a through-channel portion, and a one side wall joined to a bottom portion and to the half-panels, forming a closed container with an open top for mating to another cellar component at the half-panels, wherein a well pipe may be received into the through-channel. A plurality of drip diverters prevent downward-moving liquid from running between the mated half-panels and between the well pipe and the through-channel to capture dripped and running liquids from above the containment cellar system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Inventor: Mikel R. Stierwalt
  • Patent number: 10392793
    Abstract: A method for setting up a wastewater pumping station in a wastewater shaft and a wastewater pumping station are provided. At least one solids-collecting tank which separates solids from wastewater containing solids, a liquids-collecting tank which received the treated wastewater from the at least one solids collecting tank, and a pump for emptying wastewater from the liquids-collecting tank via the solids-collecting tank, are produced as separate subassemblies. At least the solids-collecting tank and the pump are prefabricated in the form of a construction unit, and the construction unit is combined with the already on-site liquids-collecting tank during installation in the likewise already on-site wastewater shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: KSB Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Michael Becker, Sebastian Luedemann
  • Patent number: 9995033
    Abstract: A wastewater-lifting system is provided. The wastewater-lifting system includes at least one bulky-material-collecting vessel for wastewater loaded with bulky materials which is guided therethrough, a liquid-collecting vessel for the wastewater which is freed from bulky materials and precleaned in the bulky-material-collecting vessel, and with a wastewater shaft for accommodating the bulky-material-collecting vessel and the liquid-collecting vessel. The liquid-collecting vessel and the wastewater shaft have at least one common wall surface. The liquid-collecting vessel defines a closed-off space with only a partially covered base surface in the wastewater shaft, and is equipped for this purpose with at least one wall surface independent of the wastewater shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Assignee: KSB Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Michael Becker, Enrico Mueller, Thomas Pensler, Maik Ulmschneider
  • Patent number: 9725218
    Abstract: A lid comprises a support extending from the lid that is used to maintain a container in an inverted position. The lid further comprises a dispenser, such that when the lid is connected to a container and the container is inverted, gravity compels contents of the container out the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Inventors: Douglas G. Stryker, Lonnie S. Lauer
  • Patent number: 9580290
    Abstract: A walled dispenser base for use with a removable bottle collar for delivering a liquid from a supply bottle has a hollow interior. A rim is formed at a top portion of the walled dispenser base. A foot is formed at a bottom portion of the walled dispenser base. A side opening is formed in a sidewall of the walled dispenser base. The side opening enables a valve coupled to a mouth of the supply bottle inverted and positioned within the removable collar to pass from an interior of the walled dispenser base to a location outside the walled dispenser base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Inventor: Kenneth John Gallagher
  • Patent number: 9350148
    Abstract: Provided is a meter box, a meter box cover and methods and apparatuses related to meter boxes and meter box covers. The meter box and meter box cover may include features which allow the meter box and meter box cover to be secured to each other and may be manufactured from materials which allow automated reading of a meter positioned within an enclosed meter box using wireless signal transmission methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: Trumbull Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Blake Emanuel
  • Patent number: 9227508
    Abstract: A fuel tank for a motor-vehicle includes a vent conduit connected to a canister arranged outside of the tank for absorbing fuel vapors. The vent conduit has a portion arranged inside the tank with an intermediate portion located at a lowermost position, which creates a zone in which liquid fuel tends to stagnate, which is originated from condensation of the vapors inside the vent conduit. The tank further includes a conduit for draining the liquid fuel originated from condensation of vapors present within the vent conduit. The draining conduit extends downwardly starting from the zone and ends with a closed end portion acting as accumulator and evaporator of the fuel. The closed end portion is arranged at an area which can reach a temperature sufficient for causing evaporation of the condensed fuel and elimination thereof by a flow in an opposite direction through the draining conduit and then through the vent conduit towards the canister.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: FIAT GROUP AUTOMOBILES S.P.A.
    Inventors: Luigi Spada, Marco Riaudo, Giuseppe Bussi
  • Patent number: 9032989
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention provide adjustable pit liners for use in conjunction with pipelines installed underground. The pit liners provide surface access to devices in fluid communication with the pipeline. The adjustability of the pit liners facilitates installation of the pit liners before the final grade surrounding the pit is known. In various embodiments, a tubular structure having an upper section and a lower section is provided, wherein the upper section and the lower section are slideably connected in a telescoping relationship. A locking mechanism is also provided to releaseably lock the overall height of the tubular structure as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Scott P. Floyd, Bobby W. Pope
  • Patent number: 8985048
    Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus and method for visual identification of valves in multi valve distribution and transmission systems, and particularly for municipal utility infrastructures such as mainline, connection, drain, pressure district, pressure regulating and pressure sustaining valves. In an embodiment, color coded valve box inserts are made to specifications, inserted and secured into place at the opening of multiple valve boxes to easily and accurately identify the different types or sizes of valves. Each color represents a different type or size of valve, as established by the municipality. A color coding chart identifying the different types or sizes of valves may be placed at each point of access to the valves to assist in identification of the different types of valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventors: Michael Perin, Jeremy Leyland Hunt
  • Publication number: 20140326332
    Abstract: A waste or storm water pumping station and system used to pump water from a lower elevation to a higher elevation during the process of moving or managing the water is disclosed herein. The pumping station has a wet well collection chamber with a sloped floor and an integral valve vault chamber cast within the pump station body, which results in increased storage capacity in the wet well chamber for pump station components. Additionally, the pumping station may be installed as a single unit of equal depth to eliminate differential settlement and multiple or uneven excavations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: Oldcastle Precast, Inc.
    Inventor: Ken Pasco
  • Patent number: 8561641
    Abstract: The present invention provides an underground tank having a vessel assembly and a generally spaced access assembly. That is, the access assembly includes a fuel line, a withdrawal line, and a dome assembly. The fuel line and the withdrawal line have a first end disposed outside the vessel assembly and a second end disposed adjacent to or within the vessel assembly. The first end extends upwardly from the vessel assembly toward the ground surface. The dome assembly is coupled adjacent to the fuel and withdrawal line first end. As such, the vessel assembly may be buried at any depth as the fuel and withdrawal lines may have any length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Quality Steel
    Inventors: Walker Louis Ogden, Michael Lillegaard Larson, Michael Huffman, Donald Frank Fabricy
  • Patent number: 8511336
    Abstract: An irrigation valve vault including a base frame member having a plurality of sides forming an enclosed area including a first side having a water inlet passage with a plurality of apertures along its length and opening into the enclosed area, a second side having a plurality of apertures extending from the enclosed area to connection points for water lines located on the outside of the second side, a plurality of valves located within the enclosed area and connecting between apertures on the first side and apertures on the second side, a sloped compartment located on top of the base frame, and a lid placed on the top aperture of the sloped compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: Scott Michael Schumacher
  • Publication number: 20120280163
    Abstract: A septic leach line control apparatus comprising a hollow housing with tapered continuous sidewalls extending from a top to a wider base at the bottom. The hollow housing includes a flange extending outwardly from the base and a wider inner flange extending inwardly from the base within the housing. The inner flange defines a vertical elongated opening conformed to engage a pipe or similarly configured conduit, which has a top end and a bottom end. Also provided is a gate valve assembly, including a gate valve, a gate valve housing, and a gate valve handle assembly with a handle attached to an elongated rod at one end and to the gate valve at the other end. The rod with the attached handle extends through the pipe into the hollow housing. The bottom end of the pipe at least partially, if not entirely, encloses the gate valve assembly, or at the very least, the uppermost section of the gate valve housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Dennis Lunder
  • Patent number: 8020575
    Abstract: A method for tapping a water line, the water line being buried below a subterranean frost line, the water line traversing a water meter box's lower end, and having first and second sections within the water meter box respectively extending upwardly to and extending downwardly from a water meter, the method for tapping the water line including steps of providing a flexible tube having an intake end and an output end, the flexible tube having a length sufficient for, upon attachment of the flexible tube's intake end to the water line within the water meter box, extensions and retractions of the flexible tube between first and second positions, the flexible tube's output end residing below the subterranean frost line while in the first position and the flexible tube's output end extending upwardly from the water meter box while in the second position; attaching the flexible tube's intake end to the water line within the water meter box; providing a spigot and attaching the spigot to the flexible tube's output en
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Gerald D. Watson
  • Publication number: 20110180159
    Abstract: A valve box platform is disclosed. The valve box platform may include a peripheral wall having a receiving surface for receiving a valve box. The receiving surface may have an elevated peripheral surface that extends around an outer periphery of the receiving surface and a recessed peripheral surface that extends around an inner periphery of the receiving surface. A knockout portion may be positioned within the peripheral wall. The knockout portion may have a protruding portion that comprises a portion of the elevated peripheral surface of the peripheral wall. The peripheral wall may include a U-shaped recess having a rounded receiving portion, the U-shaped recess being aligned with the knockout portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Applicant: Orbit Irrigation Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent C. Ericksen, Stuart J. Eyring, E. Tres Wangsgaard, Daniel R. Petersen
  • Patent number: 7870867
    Abstract: A curb box lock that includes a body portion and a plurality of slidably extendable claws within the body portion. The claws being extendable from the body portion to selectively engage side walls of a curb box. The lock also includes an adjustment mechanism operatively connected to the claws and the body portion. The adjustment mechanism selectively extends the claws such that the claws can be maintained in engagement with the side walls at all times when the lock is deployed within a curb box to prevent removal of the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Inner-Tite Corp.
    Inventor: Anthony John Agbay
  • Patent number: 7703474
    Abstract: An improved liquid infiltration adapting structure for preventing liquid infiltration around a gate valve box. The structure has an annular tube structure that is tapered to more easily receive a mating pipe. The tube structure may also comprise at least one bead for further securing the mating pipe. The adapting structure is also improved by providing a stepped inner flange for ease of installing the structure around the gate valve box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Adaptor, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Gagas
  • Patent number: 7619878
    Abstract: An improved radio frequency transparent utility meter cover for an automatic meter reading (AMR) system. The cover is manufactured from a strong and chemically inert polyolefin or polypropylene copolymer and includes a non-corroding lock to secure the cover to the meter box frame. The underside of the cover includes a plurality of ribs that lend strength and rigidity to the cover while increasing mounting points for meter unit interface devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Nicor, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Cook
  • Publication number: 20090173397
    Abstract: A housing to cover equipment disposed underground has a main body with at least one wall forming an interior space, at least one flange extending at least outwardly from the main body, and at least one knockout. The knockout has a wall section forming part of the wall of the main body and that is selectively detachable from the wall for providing an opening into the interior space. At least one flange section extends from the wall section at the flange and is selectively detachable from the flange.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventors: Venkat R. Mallela, David M. Redmond
  • Patent number: 7503339
    Abstract: A cover assembly for a lift station is disclosed. The cover assembly includes a cover in which an access opening, a cable passageway and a vent are defined. The cable passageway has one end that connects to the access opening and another end that opens to an exterior of the lift station. The cable passageway and the access opening are covered by hatches that can be opened to fully uncover the cable passageway and a portion of the access opening adjacent the cable passageway. This facilitates installation and maintenance of cables running between external equipment and internal equipment. The hatch covering the cable passageway is substantially solid to prevent venting of flammable gases. An interior of the cable passageway has an additional barrier to these gases. The vent is spaced apart from the cable passageway to further separate the cable passageway and external equipment from flammable gases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Romtec Utilities, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy D. Bogan, Mark Sheldon
  • Patent number: 7497228
    Abstract: A water flushing system for a pressurized subterranean water distribution system includes an inlet conduit for receiving pressurized water from the subterranean water distribution system; an outlet fluidly connected to the inlet conduit for discharging pressurized water in the inlet conduit downwardly towards a drain; and a control valve for controlling the flow of pressurized water in the inlet conduit. The water flushing system further includes one or more of the following features: a freeze protection assembly, a detachable coupling system, a dechlorination system, and a backflow prevention system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Inventors: Thomas M. Taylor, David Goslin
  • Publication number: 20080023076
    Abstract: A valve box, a valve control device, an assembly thereof and a method are provided for accessing an underground valve and indicating presence and position of the underground valve. The valve box includes a support member having a tubular section; and a resilient tubular member telescoped slidably into the tubular section of the support member until reaching an lower end of the tubular section upper end of the resilient tubular member being extendable above the ground. The valve control device comprises a control rod having one end attachable to the underground valve and a control key including a key head, a key handle and a key stem. The key head has a cone-shaped cavity and a recess portion at the top of the cavity, the recess portion being dimensioned to engage a projection at the other end of the control rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventors: Edward Weisz, Jon Whiteside
  • Patent number: 7028703
    Abstract: A guard for a valve upon a buried fluid line prevents earth entering the opposed arches or the bottom of a conventional casing during installation about and above the valve permitting access after filling of the excavated cavity for the fluid line. Alignment of the casing with the valve and the fluid line is also facilitated with an upward facing bore of an upward extending upward portion of the guard which permits insertion of the end of a length of conduit during installation and allows passage of the end of a wrench in operation of the buried valve. A longitudinal cavity open at the bottom and ends and continuous with the bore is defined by a lower portion of the guard. Opposed ends extend into the opposed arches of the casing, protect the fluid line from a descendant arch, and serve as guides for casing disposition. Two lateral pairs of stabilizers extending outwardly from either end stabilize the guard with respect to the casing and the fluid line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Joseph K. Warner Excavating
    Inventors: Joseph K. Warner, Christopher D. Thorpe
  • Patent number: 7004677
    Abstract: A valve containment assembly for an irrigation system may have a first side wall unit, a grate, a second side wall unit, and a lid. The first side wall unit may be disposed on the floor of a hole. The grate may be positioned in the first side wall unit to support a manifold. The second side wall unit rests on the first side wall unit to cover the manifold and the lid may be disposed on top of the side wall unit. The first side wall unit and the grate elevate the manifold above the floor of the hole to reduce interference of soil and water with the manifold. Additional side wall units may be used to provide additional height. Any of the side wall units may have frangible portions that break away to permit passage of conduits into the valve containment assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Orbit Irrigation Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent C. Ericksen, Kevin Day, Christian M. Olsen, Aaron Schapper, Alan T. Ence
  • Patent number: 6932099
    Abstract: An improved landscape watering system is provided that simplifies the installation and maintenance of multiple underground water control valves, that permits the on-site configuration of valve-electrical boxes, that limits egress of insects and other living creatures into a valve-electrical boxes, and that facilitates labeling of a valve-electrical box. The box includes configurable, sealable openings and a water permeable bottom that prevents egress of insects and other living creatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventor: Mark B. Mahaney
  • Patent number: 6886577
    Abstract: A colored ring immovably associated with an inlet of an underground tank to enhance the identification of the material in the underground tank. The ring can be bolted to the inlet or engaged with adhesive to the inlet. The ring can be formed as a substantially continuous ring or a plurality of ring members. The ring can be partially positionable in the ground or can be fully disposed above ground. The ring can include a colored surface or can be uniformly colored. The ring can be used in combination with a colored lid such as the color of the lid and the color of the ring are substantially similar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: EBW, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul E. Phillips, Elmer P. Klop
  • Patent number: 6834662
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and method are provided for irrigation systems such as automated sprinkler systems. A pre-assembled housing or valve box includes an inlet for receiving water and one or more outlets for distribution of water to other components in the irrigation system, and also includes manifolding and power and valve means for selectively controlling the flow of water from the outlets. Many of the manifold components are integrally molded with each other and provided in modular form so that the system can be relatively compact and can be customized into a variety of configurations. The manifold can consist of or include integrally formed or interconnected valve bases. The electrical power system includes a main terminal box with power lines leading to connectors adjacent each outlet, so that solenoid valves may be readily connected thereto and replaced as necessary. O-rings, non-conducting gel, and similar mechanisms are provided to ensure the water-tightness of the electrical connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Olson Irrigation Systems
    Inventors: Donald O. Olson, Gerald Peterson, Aaron De Laby
  • Publication number: 20040238037
    Abstract: A water flushing system for a pressurized subterranean water distribution system includes an inlet conduit for receiving pressurized water from the subterranean water distribution system; an outlet fluidly connected to the inlet conduit for discharging pressurized water in the inlet conduit downwardly towards a drain; and a control valve for controlling the flow of pressurized water in the inlet conduit. The water flushing system further includes one or more of the following features: a freeze protection assembly, a detachable coupling system, a dechlorination system, and a backflow prevention system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventors: Thomas M. Taylor, David Goslin
  • Patent number: 6820646
    Abstract: The invention concerns an installation for measuring and displaying protected against risks of being frozen, comprising a fluid metering assembly (1) connected to a fluid supply pipe (2) and a fluid outlet pipe (3). Said fluid metering assembly (1) is mounted in an inspection window (4) below the frost line, said pipes extending in a trench produced in the ground (13) and connected to the inspection window (4). The metering assembly (1) is removable with or without interrupting pressurised fluid. A metering plate (8) retains flexible junction means (9, 10) connecting the intake and the outlet pipes (2, 3) to the metering assembly (1). The installation comprising the fluid metering assembly (1) is useful for maintaining protected against frost and accessible standard valves and fittings, in particular straight or coaxial meters (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventor: Jacky Helle
  • Publication number: 20040226609
    Abstract: A valve and an adjacent bell end and/or spigot components are integrally formed, whereby separating forces are resisted. A pipe sleeve may extend from a shroud atop the valve to a ground surface level for access to the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventor: Ali Marandi
  • Patent number: 6772782
    Abstract: A modular well for a wastewater lift station includes multiple well sections. Each of the well sections has at least one mating feature allowing it to be joined to at least one other well section and to form a liquid tight seal. The well is formed by vertically mating the well sections together. One of the well sections has an inlet opening, and the same or a different well section has at least one outlet opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Romtec Utilities, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy D. Bogan, Mark Sheldon, David B. Bogan, Sarah B. Bogan
  • Publication number: 20040089345
    Abstract: A modular well for a wastewater lift station includes multiple well sections. Each of the well sections has at least one mating feature allowing it to be joined to at least one other well section and to form a liquid tight seal. The well is formed by vertically mating the well sections together. One of the well sections has an inlet opening, and the same or a different well section has at least one outlet opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Applicant: Romtec Utilities, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy D. Bogan, Mark Sheldon, David B. Bogan, Sarah B. Bogan
  • Patent number: 6722813
    Abstract: A rigid anti-theft cover (3), for covering of shafts leading to underground mains-water systems, hingedly mounted on a frame (1) with two side edges (32A, 32B) bearing two projecting parts (30A, 30B) and engaging into two cells (10) of the frame which are at least partially overhung by a wall (13) of this frame to provide an axis of articulation parallel to a hinging border (31) of the cover. The cover also has an elastic finger (36) extending parallel to the side edges (32A, 32B) with a free end situated in proximity to the hinging border (31) and co-operating with a pressure lug (14) borne by the corresponding hinging edge (11) of the frame to permit, by elastic deformation of the finger (36) supported against the lug (14), positioning of the projecting parts (30A, 30B) into their respective cells (10) and their removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain PAM
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Hauer, Francis Berthon
  • Patent number: 6712086
    Abstract: An above ground meter box comprising a housing, a removable housing cap, openings on the housing, an adapter pipe, a meter, a annular ring and tubing. A below-ground annular ring is located on the bottom of the housing. A removable housing cap is attached to the top of the housing and covers the open top of the housing. A meter opening receives any brand of meter by placing a grommet on the meter to adapt the meter to conform with the size of the meter opening. At least two openings are located on the housing bottom, adapted to receive the adapter pipe and the tubing connected to the existing consumer line. A faucet may be added to the meter assembly to provide a means to test water pressure, for testing back flush meters, to test for nonfunctioning meters, and for a water sample point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Sidney T. Fails
  • Publication number: 20030230343
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for the extension of access conduits to access underground valves and the like. A valve can extension comprising a tubular member having an extension riser portion at one end and an inwardly tapered portion at the other end. The extension riser portion has a substantially constant inner and outer diameter defining a substantially uniform wall thickness. The inwardly tapered portion is adapted to be inserted into and frictionally engage a valve can bell housing. The valve can extension and valve can bell housing assembly form a conduit from grade level to the bell portion having a substantially uniform inner and outer diameter. A simple friction fit joining method is provided to negate the need for complex mechanical coupling devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: Ronald C. Phipps
  • Patent number: 6644342
    Abstract: A modular well for a wastewater lift station includes multiple well sections. Each of the well sections has at least one mating feature allowing it to be joined to at least one other well section and to form a liquid tight seal. The well is formed by vertically mating the well sections together. One of the well sections has an inlet opening, and the same or a different well section has at least one outlet opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Romtec Utilities, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy D. Bogan, Mark Sheldon, David B. Bogan, Sarah B. Bogan
  • Patent number: 6616371
    Abstract: A cover for in-ground meter enclosures used in traffic loading conditions employs a relatively thin plate member formed of a ductile iron alloy and is dimensioned to extend laterally across a top opening of an in-ground meter enclosure. A plurality of relatively thick rib members of the ductile iron alloy are formed with and extend generally normal from the bottom side of the plate member. The plate member and the rib members together have sufficient strength and ductility to withstand total loads on the order of at least about 20,000 pounds on the top side of the plate member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Okie Doakie Sales, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Pate
  • Patent number: 6561215
    Abstract: An enclosure for natural gas wellheads includes a fixed enclosure portion and a removable enclosure portion. The removable enclosure portion facilitates access to the wellhead, while the fixed enclosure portion protects the wellhead's computer and meter systems. The enclosure provides ventilation to prevent accumulation of natural gas within the enclosure in the event of a leak, and electrical grounding to prevent static electricity discharges in the presence of natural gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Hoad, Incorporated
    Inventor: Marty Wakefield
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20030037818
    Abstract: The invention concerns an installation for measuring and displaying protected against risks of being frozen, comprising a fluid metering assembly (1) connected to a fluid supply pipe (2) and a fluid outlet pipe (3). Said fluid metering assembly (1) is mounted in an inspection window (4) below the frost line, said pipes extending in a trench produced in the ground (13) and connected to the inspection window (4). The metering assembly (1) is removable with or without interrupting pressurised fluid. A metering plate (8) retains flexible junction means (9, 10) connecting the intake and the outlet pipes (2, 3) to the metering assembly (1). The installation comprising the fluid metering assembly (1) is useful for maintaining protected against frost and accessible standard valves and fittings, in particular straight or coaxial meters (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventor: Jacky Helle
  • Patent number: 6484740
    Abstract: A preassembled gas well blower assembly includes a platform which supports a blower above the ground. An inlet pipe had an outlet end connected to the blower inlet and extends downwardly through the support surface to an inlet end . An outlet pipe has an inlet end connected to the blower outlet and extends downwardly through the support surface to an outlet end. The preassembled is moved to a position over first and second gas pipeline sections. The inlet pipe inlet end is coupled to the first gas pipeline section, and the outlet pipe outlet end is coupled to the second gas pipeline section, permitting the blower to cause gas to be blown through the pipeline sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Clinton Guthrie
  • Patent number: 6484748
    Abstract: A water pedestal for supplying water to a recreational vehicle. The water pedestal includes a housing having a tubular wall, an open lower end and an open upper end. A flexible conduit is located substantially within the housing, the flexible conduit having a lower end extending below said open lower end of said housing and adapted to be attached to an underground water main. The flexible conduit has an upper end attached to a ball valve. The flexible conduit is formed into a loop between the upper and lower ends thereof. A rigid conduit communicate the ball valve with an anti-syphon hose bib. The hose bib includes a rigid pipe and a faucet attached to the outer end of the rigid pipe, the rigid pipe extending through the wall of the water pedestal housing adjacent the upper end of the housing. A tubular slip sleeve is located within the housing and attached to the tubular wall of the housing at a mid-portion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Anthony Baker
  • 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: 6460563
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and method are provided for irrigation systems such as automated sprinkler systems. A pre-assembled housing or valve box includes an inlet for receiving water and one or more outlets for distribution of water to other components in the irrigation system, and also includes manifolding and power and valve means for selectively controlling the flow of water from the outlets. Many of the manifold components are integrally molded with each other and provided in modular form so that the system can be relatively compact and can be customized into a variety of configurations. The manifold can consist of or include integrally formed or interconnected valve bases. The electrical power system includes a main terminal box with power lines leading to connectors adjacent each outlet, so that solenoid valves may be readily connected thereto and replaced as necessary. O-rings, non-conducting gel, and similar mechanisms are provided to ensure the water-tightness of the electrical connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Olson Irrigation Systems
    Inventors: Donald O. Olson, Gerald Peterson, Aaron De Laby
  • Patent number: 6435204
    Abstract: Dispensing system for automotive fuel including a casing mounted within the ground and containing a fuel flow meter and an associated valve. The meter is linked by a fuel line to a fuel tank. An above-ground structure is provided for supporting a dispensing hose to which the meter and associated valve within the casing are linked by a delivery line passing externally of the casing. The casing is adjacent to but separate from the above-ground structure whereby the aboveground structure is mounted independently of the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: BP Oil International Limited
    Inventors: John G. White, Ronald Robson Hymers
  • Publication number: 20020108650
    Abstract: A preassembled gas well blower assembly includes a platform which supports a blower above the ground. An inlet pipe had an outlet end connected to the blower inlet and extends downwardly through the support surface to an inlet end. An outlet pipe has an inlet end connected to the blower outlet and extends downwardly through the support surface to an outlet end. The preassembled is moved to a position over first and second gas pipeline sections. The inlet pipe inlet end is coupled to the first gas pipeline section, and the outlet pipe outlet end is coupled to the second gas pipeline section, permitting the blower to cause gas to be blown through the pipeline sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Clinton Guthrie