Articulated Or Swinging Flow Conduit Patents (Class 137/615)
  • Patent number: 9440713
    Abstract: An apparatus for transferring a fluid, in particular combustion fuel, to the tank of a vessel, having a flange that is firmly dedicated to the tank, a filler neck for receiving an external fuel hose element, and a pipe connecting the flange and the filler neck. The filler neck is pivotable about a bearing that is stationary in relation to the tank. The pipe features a plurality of pipe elements that are, at least in part, rotatably coupled to one another and to the flange and formed such that the filler neck is pivotable about at least two, preferably only two, predetermined pivot axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Fr. Lürssen Werft GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Eberhard Hecht
  • Patent number: 9416906
    Abstract: Natural gas is produced when LNG that is contained in an insulated LNG cargo tank(s) of a non-self-propelled LNG carrier (i.e., a barge) evaporates as a result of heat leakage through the walls of the insulated cargo tank(s). The natural gas is transferred from the barge to a tugboat or a towboat that is equipped with natural gas burning engines through a flexible gas transfer assembly so that the tugboat is powered by the natural gas fuel. The pressure in the cargo tank(s) on the barge is, therefore, effectively managed to prevent or substantially reduce the buildup of pressure within the LNG cargo tank(s). The LNG can then be contained within the LNG cargo tank(s) for an appropriate period of time and can be delivered at an appropriate and acceptable equilibrium pressure and temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Assignee: Argent Marine Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary W. Van Tassel
  • Patent number: 9394707
    Abstract: In one aspect of the invention, a boom apparatus used for a concrete pump vehicle includes multiple booms, where the multiple booms comprise a first boom hinge-connected to a turntable of the concrete pump vehicle and a second boom hinge-connected to the first boom. When the boom apparatus is in a folded state, the first boom extends towards a cab of the concrete pump vehicle, and the second boom is further placed above the first boom. The invention also provides a concrete pump vehicle having the boom apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignees: HUNAN SANY INTELLIGENT CONTROL EQUIPMENT CO., LTD, SANY HEAVY INDUSTRY CO., LTD
    Inventors: Xiaogang Yi, Shihui Xie, Haibo Tan
  • Patent number: 9382685
    Abstract: An industrial machine includes a frame having a base and a boom, an arm movably coupled to the boom, an attachment, a conduit, a first member, and a second member. The boom has a first end coupled to the base and a second end opposite the first end. The arm includes a first end and a second end. The attachment is coupled to the first end of the arm. The conduit extends from the frame to the arm. The first member is pivotably coupled to the frame and supports a first portion of the conduit as the arm moves relative to the boom. The second member is pivotably coupled between the first member and the arm, and supports a second portion of the conduit as the arm moves relative to the boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: Harnischfeger Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas Maki, Ethan Pedretti, Anab Akanda, Jason Gaska, Christopher Jones, Matthew Loew, Andrew P. Dretzka
  • Patent number: 9376827
    Abstract: A method produces a mast arm with a mast arm body and with at least one pipe holder for a concrete-distributing mast for use on stationary and mobile concrete pumps with a plurality of mast arms which are connected to one another so as to be pivotable on articulated joints about an axis of articulation and which hold a concrete-conveying line which has at least one rotary joint which has an axis of rotation aligned with an axis of articulation of an articulated joint. The at least one pipe holder here has a pipe support section which serves for receiving the concrete-conveying line at a holding point which has a location predetermined by the position of the axis of articulation. The mast arm body is premanufactured with a receiving intersection and the at least one pipe holder is premanufactured with a fastening section which has a connecting intersection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Assignee: Putzmeister Engineering GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Hasel, Eric Bass, Roman Riebenstahl, Jochen Ruppel, Karl Westermann
  • Patent number: 9371657
    Abstract: A working device has a base designed as a stationary support column, a motor-driven rotary head and a stack of arms made up of several mast arms which can be moved with respect to each other in pairs, using articulated or sliding joints, supporting a concrete transport line. The stack of arms is articulated on the rotary head about a horizontal rotational axis by a first mast arm. The working device also includes a control mechanism which can be actuated by a control element or a radio path and which is arranged in a control box, and a hydraulic assembly including an oil tank and a motor-driven hydraulic pump for controlling working groups for moving the rotary head and mast arm. A working platform fixed with respect to the base is arranged in the region of the bearing block for emergency operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: Putzmeister Engineering GmbH
    Inventor: Matthias Braun
  • Patent number: 9290955
    Abstract: A working device has a base designed as a stationary support column, a motor-driven rotary head and a stack of arms made up of several mast arms which can be moved with respect to each other in pairs, using articulated or sliding joints, supporting a concrete transport line. The stack of arms is articulated on the rotary head about a horizontal rotational axis by a first mast arm. The working device also includes a control mechanism which can be actuated by a control element or a radio path and which is arranged in a control box, and a hydraulic assembly including an oil tank and a motor-driven hydraulic pump for controlling working groups for moving the rotary head and mast arm. A working platform fixed with respect to the frame is arranged in the region of the bearing block for emergency operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Putzmeister Engineering GmbH
    Inventor: Matthias Braun
  • Patent number: 9187982
    Abstract: Apparatus for providing natural gas from an external gas source to multiple engines disposed upon multiple carries includes a gas supply conduit mounted upon each carrier. Each gas supply conduit has a connector conduit engaged at one end therewith and being releasably engageable at the other end with the gas supply conduit of another carrier or the gas source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Pierce Gregory Dehring, Blake Burnette
  • Patent number: 9163753
    Abstract: A self-aligning product delivery system including a vapor plate assembly and a ball joint assembly is provided. The vapor plate assembly has a vapor plate base portion with a vapor plate passage and a seating plate portion. The seating plate portion has a generally spherical segment shaped seating face defining an opening to the vapor plate passage. The ball joint assembly includes a ball joint base portion with a ball joint passage and an engaging portion. The engaging portion includes a generally spherical segment shaped joining surface. The spherical segment shaped joining surface of the engaging portion of the ball joint assembly is configured and arranged to rotationally mate with the spherical segment shaped seating face defining the opening of the vapor plate assembly to create a seal between the vapor plate assembly and the ball joint assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: Determan Brownie, Inc.
    Inventor: Ryan P. Hartin
  • Patent number: 9140082
    Abstract: A wellbore system includes an upper deflector arranged within a main bore and defines first and second channels that extend longitudinally therethrough. A lower deflector is arranged within the main bore and spaced from the upper deflector by a predetermined distance. The lower deflector defines a first conduit that communicates with a lower portion of the main bore and a second conduit that communicates with a lateral bore. A bullnose assembly includes a body, a bullnose tip arranged at a distal end of the body, and a sleeve member arranged about the body. The sleeve member or the bullnose tip is axially movable to vary a length of the bullnose tip, and the upper and lower deflectors direct the bullnose assembly into the lateral bore or the lower portion of the main bore based on the length of the bullnose tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Borisa Lajesic
  • Patent number: 9004103
    Abstract: Disclosed are various apparatus and method for transferring a hydrocarbon fluid between two bodies. An offloading system for facilitating hydrocarbon fluid transfer between two bodies includes a transfer skid and a lifting system. The transfer skid is movable from a first body to a second body to be installed thereupon to facilitate hydrocarbon fluid transfer to and from the first and the second bodies. The lifting system may be provided on the first body, and includes an extendable lifting arm; a spreader frame attachment which includes at least a first and a second lifting device to support the transfer skid, wherein the spreader frame attachment is rotatably coupled to the extendable lifting arm to allow angular or rotatable adjustment of the transfer skid in a horizontal plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Keppel Offshore & Marine Technology Centre Pte Ltd
    Inventors: Kok Seng Foo, Alex Kah Keong Tan
  • Patent number: 9004104
    Abstract: A manifold trailer comprises at least one main line having a plurality of discharge connectors and a plurality of articulating arm assemblies which are each connected to a corresponding discharge connector. Each arm assembly comprises a connector member which includes an inlet port, an outlet port and a third port which is located generally opposite the outlet port and is closed by a removable plug member. Each arm assembly also includes an articulating conduit assembly which comprises a first end that is connected to the inlet port and a riser swivel which is connected to the outlet port. During deployment of the arm assembly, a second end of the conduit assembly is connectable to a pumping unit to thereby fluidly connect the pumping unit to the main line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Tep Ungchusri, William H. Garner, Paul A. Crawford, James R. Soltau
  • Patent number: 9004102
    Abstract: Disclosed are various apparatus and method for transferring a hydrocarbon fluid between two bodies. To this purpose, a transfer skid and transfer hoses are moved from a first body to a second body to be installed thereupon to provide fluid communication between the two bodies. Offloading of hydrocarbon fluid may then take place between the two bodies. Emergency release operation may be triggered during the offloading, where the transfer hoses are disconnected from the transfer skid, and are returned to the first body. Various features of the transfer skid and associated apparatus allow the transfer skid to be installed on the second body with improved mating connections, transfer hoses to be returned to the first body after offloading operation without hydrocarbon fluid leakage, and transfer hoses to disconnect with speed and safety during emergency release operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Keppel Offshore & Marine Technology Centre Pte Ltd
    Inventors: Kok Seng Foo, Asbjørn Mortensen, Alex Kah Keong Tan, Toh Tung Wong, Wen Sin Chong, Teng Kiat Lim
  • Patent number: 8967174
    Abstract: According to some aspects, a tug and barge arrangement is provided that is configured with an articulated conduit system for transferring a fuel gas (e.g., natural gas) between the tug and barge. In some embodiments, an articulated conduit system is provided that comprises a plurality of conduits fluidically interconnected by rotatable joints configured to permit positional alterations of the fluid conduits that result from differential movement between a tug and barge, such as relative vertical displacement between the tug and barge and/or relative rotation between the tug and barge about a forward-aft axis of the tug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Moran Towing Corporation
    Inventors: Sean Reiley Perreault, Curtis Leffers, Matthew William Roddy, Matthew Jacob Wichgers, Jeremy Paul Rice
  • Publication number: 20150056084
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile concrete pump comprising a supporting structure (46) that is placed directly or indirectly by means of an assembly frame (22) on the running gear (12) of an HGV chassis (10), the supporting structure incorporating functional units that form a support device and a placing boom (36). The placing boom (36) is rotatably mounted on a boom pedestal (44). The boom pedestal (44) comprises a vessel (52) that is inserted in the supporting structure (46) and acts as a rotary bearing for the placing boom (36), while the support device has two support leg casings (54, 56) which are integrated into the supporting structure (46), cross over one another, have diagonal passages that are open at the front and have a telescopic support leg (40) in each support leg casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: Putzmeister Engineering GmbH
    Inventor: Dietmar Fuegel
  • Patent number: 8950330
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a mobile platform for the delivery of bulk explosives to a blast hole. One embodiment of the platform provides the ability to obtain weight information relating to the contents of a tank that is associated with the platform and that, in operation, contains either the bulk explosive or a constituent of the explosive. The platform comprises a vehicle with a frame, a tank, a load cell structure for connecting the frame and the tank and providing weight data relating to the contents of the tank, and a suspension system that prevents relative movement of the frame and the tank that could compromise the load cell structure. Another embodiment of the platform provides a tank for holding an explosive composition and a rotary shaft that supports a mixing blade that mixes the explosive composition within the tank. The platform further comprises bearing structure for supporting the rotary shaft that is located to deter any of the explosive composition from entering the bearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Kevin H. Waldock
  • Patent number: 8905056
    Abstract: A manifold system for routing pressurized fluid from a fluid source is disclosed. The manifold system includes a manifold assembly. The manifold assembly includes a frame, an intake section coupled to the frame, and an articulating arm coupled to the intake section. The intake section is configured to route pressurized fluid to the articulating arm. The articulating arm is configured to route pressurized fluid away from the intake section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: William Donald Kendrick
  • Publication number: 20140352830
    Abstract: A portable liquid transloader includes a wheeled support vehicle. The wheeled support vehicle includes a chassis and a manually operated extension ladder. The extension ladder includes a base section that is carried by the chassis and a fly section that is extendably connected to the base section. A platform extends horizontally outwardly from the fly section. The portable liquid transloader further includes a bulk air eliminator that is carried by the chassis. An inlet is disposed upstream from the bulk air eliminator. A mechanical flow meter is disposed downstream from the bulk air eliminator. A first supply conduit extends downstream from the mechanical flow meter. The first supply conduit is carried by the chassis and extends generally parallel to the extension ladder. A second supply conduit is fluidly coupled to the first supply conduit. The second supply conduit extends vertically above and horizontally beyond the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventors: MICHAEL KENAN, ANTHONY J. COOK, DOUGLAS S. PARRIS
  • Patent number: 8899268
    Abstract: A discharge arm assembly for a truck or trailer-mounted pumping unit comprises a jumper line which is connected to the outlet of the pumping unit, a base unit which is connected to the outlet of the jumper line, and an articulated arm which is connected to the outlet of the base unit. The base unit includes a base conduit which is rigidly secured to the truck or trailer and a swivel arm which is rotatable about a generally vertical axis. The articulated arm comprises a first generally straight pipe which is connected to the swivel arm by a generally 90° elbow. A brace member comprises a first end which is connected to the swivel arm and a second end which is connected to the first pipe to thereby support the first pipe for movement in a generally horizontal plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: FMC Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: William H. Garner, Alan R. Killingsworth, David M. Oskins, Paul A. Crawford, Tep Ungchusri
  • Patent number: 8887763
    Abstract: An arm made of composite material, and relative production method, consisting of a plurality of articulated segments with a longitudinal main axis (x), pivoted to each other, each of the articulated segments comprising a box-like structure and at least a joint element attached thereto by means of gluing, the box-like structure having an end cooperating with an end of the joint element on the inside of the surface of the joint element. The ends define a substantially conical reciprocally overlapping area and have profiles concordantly inclined by an angle (?) with respect to the longitudinal axis (x).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Cifa SpA
    Inventors: Mauro Marco Cortellini, Paolo Dario Maini, Andrea Bernasconi, Stefano Beretta
  • Patent number: 8882428
    Abstract: A transfer system includes a conduit, a support, and a conveyor. The conduit has a first end and a second end and is configured to transfer dry material from the first end to the second end. The support is in contact with at least a portion of the conduit and is configured to maintain the second end of the conduit in a desired position relative to the first end of the conduit during transfer of the dry material from the first end to the second end. The conveyor is adjacent to the conduit and is configured to deliver the dry material to the first end of the conduit from a floating vessel configured to transport the dry material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Fikes, John Gilbert Heaton, Herbert John Horinek, Ed Bryan Hagan, Robert Douglas Hayworth
  • Patent number: 8881538
    Abstract: A system for transfer of a liquid, such as liquefied natural gas, from a ship such as a liquefied natural gas carrier and a floating or fixed production and/or storage unit. The system has articulated arms and has n degrees of freedom, generally six, provided by rotating joints. At least one of the rotating joints is located on the ship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Societe Europeenne d'Ingenierie Mecanique—EURODIM
    Inventors: Bernard Dupont, Stephane Paquet
  • Patent number: 8864420
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for limiting structural damage to an affected offshore platform and preventing damage spread from the affected offshore platform to another platform during an accident or an emergency condition. An offshore platform arrangement includes a mobile offshore production unit (MOPU), a mobile storage platform and a mobile offloading platform which are disposed at a clearance distance from one another. The platforms are fluidly connected by pipes to allow hydrocarbon fluid transfer therebetween. The pipes are adapted to cease fluid communication of hydrocarbon fluid between platforms for preventing damage spread therebetween. Also disclosed is an offloading system for hydrocarbon fluid transfer which includes a lifting system having an extendable lifting arm and a spreader frame platform rotatably coupled to the lifting arm. The spreader frame platform is operable to support a transfer skid and allow angular adjustment of the transfer skid in a horizontal plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Keppel Offshore & Marine Technology Centre Pte Ltd
    Inventors: Kok Seng Foo, Wen Sin Chong, Alex Kah Keong Tan, Xiao Xia Sheng, Asbjørn Mortensen
  • Patent number: 8851116
    Abstract: A water supplying extension arm for supplying water from a water source to a showerhead has an elongated hollow extension arm element extending along its axis and having a first end connectable to the water source and a second end spaced in a direction of its axis and connectable to the showerhead, and a water regulating element operatively connected with the second end of the elongated hollow extension arm element and adjusting an amount of water issuing from the second end of the elongated hollow extension arm element to the showerhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventors: Eli Zhadanov, Sam Zhadanov
  • Publication number: 20140246101
    Abstract: A device for conveying thick matter, in particular concrete, including a thick matter pump; a feed line which leads away from the pump; a boom which receives the feed line and which includes at least one boom arm and which is arranged on a swivel bogie that is preferably provided with a swivel ring, wherein the swivel bogie is rotatable for angular orientation of the boom through a drive, in particular a hydraulic motor with a transmission arranged thereon, wherein the swivel bogie is preferably rotatable through a transmission sprocket acting on the swivel ring of the swivel bogie; and a measuring device which includes rotation angle sensors for measuring the rotation angle of the swivel bogie, wherein the rotation angle of the swivel bogie is measured through direct measurement of a rotation angle of the drive or of the transmission arranged between the motor and swivel bogie.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Applicant: Schwing GmbH
    Inventors: Siegfried Trumper, Reiner Vierkotten
  • Publication number: 20140224347
    Abstract: A water monitor includes a stationary portion having a fluid inlet. A movable portion has a first piece rotatably coupled to the stationary portion and a second piece rotatably coupled to the first piece. The first piece has a first sleeve and an opposing second sleeve configured to rotatably couple to the second piece. The second piece has an inlet portion and a fluid outlet. The inlet portion includes a fluid opening and is configured to extend through the first sleeve and the second sleeve. A fluid flow path extends between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and is configured to communicate fluids from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet. A power transmission is coupled to the inlet portion adjacent the first sleeve and the fluid flow path bypasses the power transmission. The movable portion is rotatable with respect to the stationary portion to position the fluid outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: Akron Brass Company
    Inventor: Adam Uhler
  • Publication number: 20140209194
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a support arm assembly (39) for mounting in a fuel tank (1). The support arm assembly (39) comprises an arm (43) having a connector (51) for mounting the support arm assembly (39). A fuel fill limiter is mounted on the arm (43). The support arm assembly (43) can be installed in a fuel tank (1) through an access aperture (A) and mounted within the fuel tank (1). The present invention also relates to a fuel tank (1) in combination with the support arm assembly (43).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: Jaguar Land Rover Limited
    Inventors: George Thirlaway, Steve Checkley, Adam Grant
  • Patent number: 8777125
    Abstract: An operator interface assembly is provided that includes a frame having a first end configured to rotatably couple to a first lateral frame tube of an agricultural vehicle, and a second end configured to transition between a raised position adjacent to a second lateral frame tube of the agricultural vehicle and a lowered position beneath the second lateral frame tube via rotation of the frame about the first end. The operator interface assembly also includes a fluid inlet coupled to the frame, and configured to provide fluid to the agricultural vehicle. In addition, the operator interface assembly includes a valve coupled to the frame, and configured to control fluid flow from the fluid inlet to the agricultural vehicle. The fluid inlet and the valve are positioned adjacent to the second end of the frame, and directed laterally outward with respect to the agricultural vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: John Paul Honermann, Scott David Reese
  • Publication number: 20140182713
    Abstract: In one aspect of the invention, a boom apparatus includes at least a first boom, a second boom and a third boom sequentially connected to one another, wherein a root end of the first boom is connected to a turntable, some of the booms is a bent boom occupying at least two column spaces, and when the booms are in a folded state, the boom apparatus occupies at least three column spaces. The invention also provides a concrete pump vehicle having the boom apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2014
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicants: SANY HEAVY INDUSTRY CO., LTD, HUNAN SANY INTELLIGENT CONTROL EQUIPMENT CO., LTD
    Inventors: Shihui Xie, Biao Deng, Runli Tian
  • Patent number: 8701897
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a cable extension mechanism includes a housing and a plurality of cable tray segments adapted to retain elongate material therein, wherein each cable tray segment includes first and second cable trays. A sheave is disposed on an axle between the first and second cable trays thereby forming an extendable elbow. At least one wheel assembly is coupled to each cable tray segment to enable the tray segment to articulate between a first position wherein the elongate material is stored and has a first length shorter than an actual length of the elongate material and a substantially flat second position, thereby extending a length of the elongate material disposed thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Nabors International, Inc.
    Inventors: Sean Bailey, Gary Craig, Padira Reddy
  • Publication number: 20140096853
    Abstract: The invention relates to a distributing boom (14) for stationary or mobile concrete pumps. The distributing boom (14) consists substantially of a rotary head (22), which can be rotated about an axis of rotation (18) in the form of a vertical axis, and of an arm assembly (24), which is made up of a plurality of boom arms which can be telescoped or pivoted relative to one another. The arm assembly (24) has the one end of its first boom arm (1) articulated on the rotary head (22) and, by means of a first cylinder/piston unit (32), which has its ends articulated at points of articulation (28, 30) of the rotary head (22) and of the first boom arm (1), can be pivoted, about a horizontal axis of inflection (A), between a substantially horizontally oriented retracted position and an operating position. It is an aim of the invention to provide measures which make it possible for the cylinder/piston unit (32), which acts on the first boom arm (1), to be reduced in size.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: PUTZMEISTER ENGINEERING GMBH
    Inventors: Michael Neubert, Matthias Braun
  • Patent number: 8689837
    Abstract: A downspout extension has a low-profile to direct rainwater away from a building. A transition adapter can be used to transition from a generally circular or square cross-section of a downspout to a low-profile cross-section of a corrugated duct of the extension. The extension can include internal supports to withstand being stepped on and can have a generally rectangular or trapezoidal cross-section with a longer width than height. The corrugated duct can also be comprised of integrated accordion corrugation sections and transverse non-collapsible ribs to give the corrugated duct extension greater flexibility. The extension can be connected to a downspout using a flexible elbow duct, a downspout connector, and a downspout adapter. The transition adapter of the extension can also be connected directly to a downspout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Jeffrey E. Smith
  • Patent number: 8678022
    Abstract: A water monitor includes a stationary portion having a fluid inlet. A movable portion having a fluid outlet is coupled to the stationary portion. A fluid flow path extends between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and is configured to communicate fluids from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet. A power transmission is coupled to the movable portion such that the fluid flow path bypasses the power transmission. The movable portion is rotatable with respect to the stationary portion to position the fluid outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Akron Brass Co.
    Inventor: Adam Uhler
  • Publication number: 20140060685
    Abstract: Lock down units and loading arms with lock down units are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a loading arm includes a product delivery pipe pivotally coupled to a product standpipe such that the product delivery pipe is rotatable in a vertical plane. A rocker assembly is coupled to the product delivery pipe. A support arm may be pivotally connected to the product standpipe and slidably coupled to the rocker assembly such that the support arm and the rocker assembly are slidable with respect to one another. The support arm comprises a plurality of slots. A locking pawl is affixed to the rocker assembly and selectively engagable with the slots such that, when the locking pawl is engaged with a slot of the support arm, the locking pawl couples the support arm to the rocker assembly, thereby preventing the product delivery pipe from being raised in the vertical plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: OPW Engineered Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph P. Roth, Krzysztof Wejdman
  • Patent number: 8636030
    Abstract: An arm to distribute concrete comprising a plurality of articulated segments selectively able to be folded back and extended with respect to each other, made of composite material, wherein at least one of said segments comprises at least a first tract and a second tract, each having a constant cross section, wherein the section size of the first tract is different from the section size of the second tract, a connection tract being provided between said first tract and said second tract.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: CIFA SpA
    Inventors: Paolo Dario Maini, Nicola Pirri
  • Patent number: 8590556
    Abstract: A plug and pump system for routing pressurized fluid from a fluid source is disclosed. The system includes a platform and a docking station interface mounted on the platform and including multiple points of articulation. A wellhead interface is mounted on the platform and includes multiple points of articulation. The docking station interface and the wellhead interface are configured to route pressurized fluid from a fluid source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: William D. Kendrick
  • Patent number: 8539970
    Abstract: The present disclosure comprises a platform and a manifold, the latter being intended to be connected to a fluid tank. The manifold comprises a length of rigid tube defining a pipe of approximately horizontal axis and a length of connecting tube for connection to a transfer line connected to the length of rigid tube. The length of connecting tube is permanently attached to the length of rigid tube and is hinged to the length of rigid tube to allow movement relative to the length of rigid tube between: —a retracted rest position in which the length of connecting tube extends entirely inside the inner edge; and —a first or filling position, in which the free end of the length of connecting tube projects out from the outer edge of the support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Technip France
    Inventors: Pierre-Armand Thomas, Jean-Pascal Biaggi, Jean-François Patinet
  • Publication number: 20130213500
    Abstract: Natural gas is produced when LNG that is contained in an insulated LNG cargo tank(s) of a non-self-propelled LNG carrier (i.e., a barge) evaporates as a result of heat leakage through the walls of the insulated cargo tank(s). The natural gas is transferred from the barge to a tugboat or a towboat that is equipped with natural gas burning engines through a flexible gas transfer assembly so that the tugboat is powered by the natural gas fuel. The pressure in the cargo tank(s) on the barge is, therefore, effectively managed to prevent or substantially reduce the buildup of pressure within the LNG cargo tank(s). The LNG can then be contained within the LNG cargo tank(s) for an appropriate period of time and can be delivered at an appropriate and acceptable equilibrium pressure and temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: Argent Marine Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary W. Van Tassel
  • Patent number: 8505570
    Abstract: A mobile crane has at least two crane booms which are connected together by a joint such that the angular position with respect to each other can be adjusted. At least one hose between the crane booms, and the hose is exposed in the region of the joint in at least one angular position of the crane booms. At least one flexurally elastic sheet is connected with the at least one hose or covers it at least in the exposed region and can flex when the angular position of the at least two crane booms is changed. The at least one flexurally elastic sheet can be moved into or respectively out of one of the crane booms upon a change in the angular position of the crane booms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Palfinger AG
    Inventor: Eckhard Wimmer
  • Patent number: 8469049
    Abstract: A discharge extension assembly includes a main tube having at least first and second ends. The discharge extension assembly further includes at least one extension tube configured to telescope from within the main tube. The main tube and the at least one extension tube may include a plurality of collars that are configured to limit overextension of the at least one extension tube from the main tube. A first bracket is configured to mount to the first end of the main tube. A hinge assembly is configured to pivot the main tube and the at least one extension tube. The hinge assembly may include a stop and a sleeve slidably engaged with a shaft. The stop, the sleeve, and the shaft may be configured to limit movement of the sleeve. A second bracket may be configured to mount to the second end of the main tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Norco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard F. Garceau
  • Patent number: 8439059
    Abstract: The invention concerns a control device for the movement and positioning of a coupling for a marine loading system having at least one fluid transfer line with a first line end fixed to a base and a moveable second line end provided with a coupling adapted for connection to a target duct, the marine loading system further having a plurality of mechanical connections such that the coupling has at least three degrees of freedom relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: FMC Technologies SA
    Inventor: Nicolas Sylard
  • Patent number: 8322083
    Abstract: An articulating downspout assembly for a downspout system of a building has an elbow component and an end component each having an integrated or integral configuration that cooperatively join with each other to form a hinge. The hinge allows the end component to pivot between a prone position and an upright position. In the upright position the end component is at an angle relative to the elbow component such that a downspout extension section coupled to the end component leans toward and/or against a vertical downspout portion of the building's downspout system. This prevents the end component and thus the downspout extension from spontaneously falling (pivoting) back to the prone position. The integrated configuration of the elbow component is characterized by one or more configured slots while the integrated configuration of the end component is characterized by one or more configured tabs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Lynch Aluminum Mfg. Co.
    Inventor: Wayne Kessler
  • Publication number: 20120285567
    Abstract: An articulating downspout assembly for a downspout system of a building has an elbow component and an end component each having an integrated or integral configuration that cooperatively join with each other to form a hinge. The hinge allows the end component to pivot between a prone position and an upright position. In the upright position the end component is at an angle relative to the elbow component such that a downspout extension section coupled to the end component leans toward and/or against a vertical downspout portion of the building's downspout system. This prevents the end component and thus the downspout extension from spontaneously falling (pivoting) back to the prone position. The integrated configuration of the elbow component is characterized by one or more configured slots while the integrated configuration of the end component is characterized by one or more configured tabs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Wayne Kessler
  • Patent number: 8308517
    Abstract: A method for receiving dry gas and forming liquefied natural gas on a floating vessel, and offloading the liquefied natural gas using telescoping mooring arms to a floating transport vessel is disclosed herein. The method can include mooring the floating vessel to a seabed with a mooring spread, using a soft yoke to moor the transport vessel to the floating vessel, receiving a dry gas, cooling the dry gas forming a liquefied nature gas, transferring the liquefied natural gas to the transport vessel, transferring personnel and equipment over a gangway, returning hydrocarbon vapor to the floating vessel, cooling the hydrocarbon vapor, and using the hydrocarbon vapor as a fuel for the floating vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Magee Shivers, III, William T. Bennett, Jr., David Trent
  • Patent number: 8308518
    Abstract: A method for receiving dry natural gas, cryogenically cooling the gas, then forming liquefied natural gas is disclosed herein. The method can include flowing the liquefied natural gas to a moveable floating transport vessel. The method can include using mooring arms that maintain a nominal distance between the station and the vessel while simultaneously forming an enclosed gangway and monitoring offloading and return of hydrocarbon vapor. The method can include providing quick connect/disconnect engagements to the transport vessel and storing the liquefied natural gas on the transport vessel at a cryogenic temperature. The method can include recycling hydrocarbon vapor formed during offloading to the floating station and maintaining a cryogenic temperature using a flow rate substantially the same as the floating station uses fuel. The method can include releasing the transport vessel from the floating station to transport the liquefied natural gas to another location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: ATP Oil & Gas Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Magee Shivers, III, William T. Bennett, Jr., David Trent
  • Patent number: 8281811
    Abstract: A large manipulator, especially a truck-mounted concrete pump, has a boom base that can be arranged on a frame so as to be pivoted about a substantially vertical axis of rotation. The large manipulator has a pendular element, that hangs down as an articulated boom and a control device for controlling the drive units of the axes of articulation and rotation of the articulated boom. The remote control has at least one inclination sensor which is housed in a housing that is detachably fastened on the pendular element. Two inclination sensors are housed in the housing and are bent at an angle of 90° with respect to each other and with respect to an axis that is parallel to the pendular element axis. The housing has a mark indicating the orientation of at least one of the inclination sensors inside the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Putzmeister Engineering GmbH
    Inventors: Kurt Rau, Ute Else Margarethe Rau, legal representative, Andreas Rau, legal representative, Michael Rau, legal representative, Christine Rau, legal representative
  • Patent number: 8256457
    Abstract: A saddle tank for internal combustion engines of motor vehicles includes an oblong boom, which is connected at one end to a swirl pot located in the first chamber and rests toward the other end on a lower saddle surface of the saddle and a retainer for a Venturi nozzle or pump, which is mounted so it is rotatable on the other end of the boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Walter Bleuel
  • Patent number: 8251095
    Abstract: Articulated mast, in particular for concrete delivery installations, comprising at least two mast sections connected to one another by means of a swivel joint and having a straight longitudinal extent, wherein one mast section can be swiveled about a swivel joint axis with respect to the adjacent mast section, such that the articulated mast can be shifted from a folded transport position into a swung-out working position and wherein at least one swivel joint of the articulated mast has an inclined swivel joint axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Schwing GmbH
    Inventor: Siegfried Trumper
  • Patent number: 8210770
    Abstract: A hose holder boom assembly (10) includes a first pivotal connector (128) pivotally mounting an open end (122) of a first tube (120) to a sidewall (114) of a cabinet (44) about a first pivot axis. A second pivotal connector (128) mounts an open end (132) of a second tube (130) to the other open end (124) of the first tube (120) about a second pivot axis parallel to and spaced from the first pivot axis. Movement of the first tube (120) relative to the sidewall (114) and relative movement between the first and second tubes (120, 130) are limited to a pivot plane extending perpendicular to the first and second pivot axes and including the first and second tubes (120, 130). The open end (132) of the second tube (130) is pivotable at an obtuse angle to each of two sides of the other open end (124) of the first tube (120). A hose (74) for outputting paving material extends out of the cabinet (44) and through the first and second tubes (120, 130) and the first and second pivotal connectors (128).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Cimline, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Stuart Halvorson
  • Patent number: 8181662
    Abstract: A hydrocarbon transfer system includes a first structure with a length direction and a transverse direction having a frame carrying a vertical arm with at its end a fluid connecting member for connecting to a second structure which is moored alongside the first structure. The connecting member includes a winch and first guiding elements for engaging with second guiding elements on the second structure by connecting a wire to the winch on one end an to the second structure on the other end, and a tension device for moving the vertical arm away from the second structure for tensioning the wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Single Buoy Moorings Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Pollack, Philippe Albert Christian Menardo, Eric Barrabino