Suspended Patents (Class 138/107)
  • Patent number: 11255569
    Abstract: A reinforcing assembly for air ducts includes a helical reinforcement with an outer circumference and at least one connecting element for fixing a pitch of a helix formed by the helical reinforcement. The at least one connecting element may be fixed to the helical reinforcement by a plurality of j joints with mutually arranged spacing. The reinforcing assembly may be combined with an air duct to form a duct system for transmitting and distributing air that retains its shape regardless of the system's internal air pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignee: PRIHODA s.r.o.
    Inventor: Zdenek Prihoda
  • Patent number: 10898060
    Abstract: A cable connection structure includes: a plurality of cables including at least one coaxial cable including a central conductor, an inner insulator, and an outer conductor exposed stepwise at a distal end portion; an aligning member that is in contact with side surfaces of exposed conductive portions of the cables positioned at least at both ends, of the plurality of cables, to align the cables such that axial directions become parallel and outer sheaths of the adjacent cables are in contact with each other; and a board on which an electrode portion that connects the conductive portions of the plurality of cables are arranged. The conductive portions of the plurality of cables are electrically and mechanically connected to the electrode portion of the board via a conductive connecting member and the aligning member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Junya Yamada, Takanori Sekido, Yukie Yoshizawa
  • Patent number: 10876758
    Abstract: Example air duct assemblies include a pliable air duct supported such that the duct is maintained in a generally expanded shape even when the duct is deflated. In some examples, a series of hangers suspend the duct from one or more cables, tracks or other type of overhead support. The hangers are spaced apart and distributed over the length of the duct, and each one contributes in pulling the duct taut in the duct's longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Cary Pinkalla, Jeff Logic, Kevin J. Gebke, Nicholas L. Kaufmann
  • Patent number: 10823152
    Abstract: There is a system and method for de-icing a wind turbine blade. The system includes a heater for heating air and for attaching to an interior surface of the wind turbine blade, a blower for moving air across the heater to generate a heated airflow, and a flexible duct for receiving the heated airflow and for releasing the heated airflow into the interior of the wind turbine blade. The method includes generating heated air in the interior of a wind turbine blade, moving the heated air into a porous duct within the interior of the wind turbine blade, and passing the heated air through the porous duct and into the interior of the wind turbine blade to heat a surface of the wind turbine blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: Borealis Wind Inc.
    Inventors: Daniela Roeper, Dylan James Baxter, Aiden Gabriel Sotres, Jonathan Parkin
  • Patent number: 10718544
    Abstract: A reinforcing assembly for air ducts includes a helical reinforcement with an outer circumference and at least one connecting element for fixing a pitch of a helix formed by the helical reinforcement. The at least one connecting element may be fixed to the helical reinforcement by a plurality of joints with mutually arranged spacing. The reinforcing assembly may be combined with an air duct to form a duct system for transmitting and distributing air that retains its shape regardless of the system's internal air pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: PRIHODA s.r.o.
    Inventor: Zdenek Prihoda
  • Patent number: 10213649
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device for protecting a climbing rope comprising a flexible sheath comprising a first edge, a second edge generally opposing the first edge, a first end, and a second end generally opposing the first end, a sheath connector assembly attached at the second end of the flexible sheath, and a primary rope connector assembly attached to the sheath connector assembly. Methods of making and using the device also are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Assignee: Peak Performance Leadership, LLC
    Inventor: Jonathan T Norton
  • Patent number: 10088180
    Abstract: A steam dispersion system for building humidification is disclosed. At least a portion of the steam dispersion system is comprised of a flexible material that is collapsible for changing the outer dimension of the portion comprised of the flexible material from a greater, higher-pressure, size, to a smaller, lower-pressure, size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: DRI-STEEM Corporation
    Inventors: James Michael Lundgreen, David Michael Baird, Joseph T. Haag, Mark Allen Kirkwold
  • Patent number: 10071508
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention relate to methods for the production of arcuate polymeric saddles typically used to anchor and suspend insulated or non-insulated pipes. Ribs may be included to provide strength. Rounded corners on the saddles facilitate comfortably introducing and placing the saddles into hangers as well as improving use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: Buckaroos, Inc.
    Inventors: Christos John Botsolas, Jr., Jeffrey J. Rebholz
  • Patent number: 9938718
    Abstract: An arched island ceiling system comprising a pair of arcuate frame members, metal panels, and clips for supporting the panels on the frame members, the frame members having a generally rectangular cross-section, the clips having a saddle configuration including a seat and legs depending from opposite sides of the seat and being proportioned to straddle the frame member, lower ends of the legs having feet engageable with the underside of inwardly extending flanges of sides of the metal panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: USG INTERIORS, LLC
    Inventor: Abraham M. Underkofler
  • Patent number: 9834295
    Abstract: A system for offshore production of LNG from an FLNG vessel includes a floating LNG vessel including a hull and a deck, a topsides hydrocarbon processing facility installed at or above the deck of the hull of the FLNG vessel, a FLNG vessel cargo containment system comprising one or more insulated FLNG vessel cryogenic storage tanks installed within the hull of the FLNG vessel, a dynamic positioning control system operatively associated with a system of thrusters onboard the FLNG vessel where the dynamic positioning control system maintains the FLNG vessel at a desired heading around a station keeping point during LNG cargo offloading operations, and a computer processor for receiving a set of real-time monitored environmental data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: WOODSIDE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES PTY LTD.
    Inventors: Steve John Cooper, William David Hartell
  • Patent number: 9777908
    Abstract: Embodiments herein are directed to a lighting fixture for insertion into a strut channel member. In an installed position, a light source supported by the housing of the lighting fixture is disposed at least partially within an interior volume of the strut channel member. The lighting fixture can be attached to the strut channel member by the lips of the strut channel member. When the lighting fixture is installed in the channel member, light from the light source emanates in a direction out of the channel member through the slot in the channel member. The lighting fixture may be snapped or slid into or out of place in the channel member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Andrew Churnock
  • Patent number: 9677262
    Abstract: An apparatus for increasing the utility of gravity conduits by using their underutilized headspace for pressurized conveyance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Inventor: Shahriar Eftekharzadeh
  • Patent number: 9644858
    Abstract: Example air duct assemblies include a pliable air duct supported such that the duct is maintained in a generally expanded shape even when the duct is deflated. In some examples, a series of hangers suspend the duct from one or more cables, tracks or other type of overhead support. The hangers are spaced apart and distributed over the length of the duct, and each one contributes in pulling the duct taut in the duct's longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: RITE-HITE HOLDING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Cary Pinkalla, Jeff Logic, Kevin J. Gebke, Nicholas L. Kaufmann
  • Patent number: 9605865
    Abstract: Example air ducts comprising pliable tubular sidewalls are provided with example internal frameworks that hold the duct in a generally expanded shape even when the duct is depressurized. The framework tensions the pliable sidewall material along the length of the ducts to keep the material taut. In some examples, the framework is restrained within the duct such that the duct's sidewall, being in tension, holds the framework in compression longitudinally. Thus, in the longitudinal direction, the duct is in tension and the framework is in compression. To prevent the framework from buckling under the compressive force, some example frameworks comprise a central longitudinal shaft with a plurality of radial spokes and rings that help hold the shaft straight. In some examples, the rings also help hold the duct radially expanded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: RITE-HITE HOLDING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Cary Pinkalla, Frank Heim, Kevin J. Gebke, Nicholas L. Kaufmann, William A. Niehaus
  • Patent number: 9303892
    Abstract: Inflatable air ducts with low height-to-width ratios are disclosed. An example air duct system includes a top sheet, a bottom sheet, a first side sheet, and a second side sheet spaced apart from the first side sheet and extending between the top sheet and the bottom sheet. The top, bottom, first side, and second side sheets provide an inflatable air duct having an inflated state and a deflated state. The inflatable air duct has an inflated length greater than an inflated width. The inflated width is more than twice as great as an inflated height. The interior of the inflatable air duct defining an air passageway having a first airway, a second airway, and an intermediate airway. The intermediate airway is adjacent the first airway at a first transition area. The example air duct system also includes a second transition area between the intermediate airway and the second airway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: RITE-HITE HOLDING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Frank Heim, Kevin J. Gebke, Michael A. Jacobson
  • Patent number: 9200815
    Abstract: A ventilation ducting arrangement includes a flexible conduit having an inner surface defining a channel carrying a flow of air. First connectors are aligned in a length direction along a length of the inner surface of the conduit. Second connectors are aligned along the length direction. Each of the second connectors has a position along the length direction that is the same as a position of a corresponding first connector along the length direction but that is diametrically opposed to the position of the corresponding first connector relative to a circumference of the inner surface. Each of a plurality of fastening devices interconnects a respective one of the first connectors and a respective one of the second connectors such that a distance between the interconnected first connector and the interconnected second connector is limited by a length of the fastening device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: ABC Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven S. Fleagle, Kevin J. Carson
  • Patent number: 9022075
    Abstract: An apparatus including a fairing having a tail portion and an end portion capable of suppressing a vortex-induced vibration of a tubular. The apparatus further including a stabilizing member attached to the end portion of the fairing, the stabilizing member dimensioned to increase a thickness of the end portion of the fairing and a flange member attached to the stabilizing member, the flange member dimensioned to increase a chord dimension of the fairing so as to improve a stability of the fairing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: VIV Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Donald Wayne Allen, Dean Leroy Henning, William Andrew West, Philip Albert Larson
  • Patent number: 8985158
    Abstract: A fabric tube with two passages comprises a fabric tube sheet. A first fabric weld strip with right and left flanges extending laterally from a bottom edge of a weld fin is welded to a first surface extending the length of the fabric tube sheet at a distance D1 from the first edge thereof. A second fabric weld strip is welded to an opposite second surface and extends the length of the fabric tube sheet between the first fabric weld strip and the second edge of the fabric tube sheet at a distance D2 from the second edge of the fabric tube sheet. The first edge of the fabric tube sheet is welded to the weld fin of the second fabric weld strip and the second edge of the fabric tube sheet is welded to the weld fin of the first fabric weld strip to form two passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: ABC Canada Technology Group Ltd.
    Inventors: Don Adams, James Yausie, Bob Hack, Paul Yausie
  • Patent number: 8905081
    Abstract: A safety restraint system for a flow line for pressurized liquids, comprising a plurality of axially spaced flow line wraps each having end loops that are releasably connected to an anchor line, the anchor line being further attached at each of its two ends to a relatively immobile anchor structure, and each flow line wrap being removable from the flow line and from the anchor line without detaching either end of the anchor line from its respective anchor structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: LLI Safety Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Patrick Lee, Jeff Isbell, Stormy Lee, Cory Enderby, Guy Ellis
  • Patent number: 8899533
    Abstract: A hydraulic brake hose assembly includes a suspension component, a brake hose connected to the suspension component, and a support bracket connected to the brake hose and the suspension component. The support bracket includes a base having a forward edge portion, a rear edge portion and opposite side edge portions. A forward wall extends upwardly from the forward edge portion. A sidewall extends upwardly from one of the side edge portions. A single mounting opening is located on the base. An anti-rotation tab extends downwardly from the base. The suspension component includes a portion having a mounting aperture and a recess respectively corresponding with the single mounting opening and the anti-rotation tab of the support bracket. The support bracket prevents rotation of the brake hose relative to the support bracket as the support bracket is secured to the portion of the suspension component via a single fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Michael D. Lucas, Jeffrey D. Platt, Peter M. Schupska, Kirk S. Rhoades, Brian Doorlag
  • Patent number: 8875743
    Abstract: A hanger and method for routing a hot melt hose adjacent to a structure includes a body having a through hole for receiving the hot melt hose. The through hole defines an inner surface adapted to support the hot melt hose without generally deforming the hot melt hose. The hanger also includes at least one of either a groove on the inner surface or a passage extending through the body for positioning the tie device. As such, the body is adapted to be supported by the tie device mounted to the structure. The hanger further spaces the hot melt hose from the adjacent structure. Thus, mechanical and thermal stresses may be minimized by supporting and spacing the hot melt hose from the adjacent structure without generally deforming the hot melt hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond K. Persaud, John M. Riney
  • Patent number: 8844578
    Abstract: Example air ducts comprising pliable tubular sidewalls are provided with example internal frameworks that hold the duct in a generally expanded shape even when the duct is depressurized. The framework tensions the pliable sidewall material along the length of the ducts to keep the material taut. In some examples, the framework is restrained within the duct such that the duct's sidewall, being in tension, holds the framework in compression longitudinally. Thus, in the longitudinal direction, the duct is in tension and the framework is in compression. To prevent the framework from buckling under the compressive force, some example frameworks comprise a central longitudinal shaft with a plurality of radial spokes and rings that help hold the shaft straight. In some examples, the rings also help hold the duct radially expanded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Cary Pinkalla, Frank Heim, Kevin J. Gebke, Nicholas L. Kaufmann, William A. Niehaus
  • Patent number: 8842960
    Abstract: A duct for distributing one or more optical fiber communication lines. The duct comprises an elongated main body having a length and a conduit portion with a lengthwise bore formed therein. The conduit portion contains one or more optical fiber communications lines. The duct also includes a flange portion extending lengthwise adjacent the main body to mount the duct to a generally flat surface, wherein the duct further includes an additional fiber channel for distributing at least one additional optical fiber at least a portion of the length of the duct. The duct can also be formed as a two piece duct system. The duct can be utilized in a drop access location system for horizontal cabling in multi-dwelling unit (MDU) applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Sidney J. Berglund, Kurt H. Petersen, Zachary M. Thompson, Victor J. Borer, Linnea M. Wilkes
  • Publication number: 20140261835
    Abstract: Example air ducts comprising pliable tubular sidewalls are provided with example internal frameworks that hold the duct in a generally expanded shape even when the duct is depressurized. The framework tensions the pliable sidewall material along the length of the ducts to keep the material taut. In some examples, the framework is restrained within the duct such that the duct's sidewall, being in tension, holds the framework in compression longitudinally. Thus, in the longitudinal direction, the duct is in tension and the framework is in compression. To prevent the framework from buckling under the compressive force, some example frameworks comprise a central longitudinal shaft with a plurality of radial spokes and rings that help hold the shaft straight. In some examples, the rings also help hold the duct radially expanded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Cary Pinkalla, Frank Heim, Kevin J. Gebke, Nicholas L. Kaufmann, William A. Niehaus
  • Patent number: 8800938
    Abstract: A pipe brace assembly includes a main clamp body that can be secured to a brace pipe. A cable, or other flexible tensioning member, can be wrapped around a braced pipe and secured to the main clamp body. The pipe brace assembly includes a method or mechanism for tensioning the cable or flexible tensioning member around the braced pipe. In some embodiments, the tensioning method or mechanism involves moving, such as rotating, the main clamp body to tension the cable or tensioning member. The clamping of the main clamp body and tensioning of the cable or tensioning member can occur simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Cooper B-Line, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard W. Heath
  • Patent number: 8763645
    Abstract: A support system for process piping and method of installation are presented. An adjustable hanger rod assembly includes a rod with oppositely oriented external threads at opposite ends thereof. These threads are adapted to mate with internal threads in respectively associated sleeves. One of the sleeves is fixed to a support system, while the other sleeve is fixedly secured to a pipe clamp. The oppositely oriented threading of the rod allows the rod to operate as a turnbuckle, such that rotation of the rod adjusts the elevation of the pipe clamp and an associated pipe retained thereby. Once a desired adjustment has been achieved, the rod and associated pipe clamp may be locked into position by tack or spot welding of the rod to the associated sleeves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Inventor: Christopher J. Hendershot
  • Patent number: 8752590
    Abstract: An extendable rope protecting sleeve is provided as an apparatus that extends over an existing climbing rope providing a barrier that protects said climbing rope from fraying and weakening as a result of direct contact with damaging surfaces. The expandable rope protecting sleeve shrouds a climbing rope during a climber's descent with minimal interference to the climber's range of motion. The apparatus provides the extendable sleeve with a detachable engagement through a breakaway wrist strap in order reduce the likelihood of the climber being encumbered by the apparatus. Additionally, the detachable engagement is provided in a manner that avoids a sudden jerking sensation upon detachment. Through the combination of the aforementioned components the apparatus is able to slowly expand over a climbing rope covering exposed sections of the climbing rope during the climber's descent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventors: David Donald Petty, Richard DeMille Petty
  • Patent number: 8667994
    Abstract: A plumbing fitting includes a body portion 1 which is secured to a structure such as a wall framing in use by means of a mounting means 2. An inlet means 3 is linked to an outlet means 4 by means of an internal passage in the body portion. The inlet means is adapted to be secured to distributor pipework or hoses in use and the outlet means is adapted to be coupled to a flexible hose or a tap where it projects through a wall lining. The body portion 1 can slide within the mounting means 2, if sufficient force is used, so that after the coupling is made to an extended outlet means 4 the outlet means can be pushed back towards the wall structure to assist in the provision of a neat appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Inventor: David John Picton
  • Patent number: 8622092
    Abstract: A pipe connection member for connecting a pipe to a pair of parallel brackets includes a pair of clamping members. Each clamping member has a pipe receiving opening extending therethrough. The inner sides of the clamping members cooperate to form a pair of parallel channels sized to receive the brackets. At least one fastener interconnects the clamping members for drawing them toward one another and against the brackets. One of the clamping members further includes a collet having integrally formed fingers extending outwardly around its pipe receiving opening. The other clamping member includes a countersink sized and positioned to receive the fingers such that as the clamping members are drawn toward one another the fingers are compressed against a pipe extending through the pipe receiving openings to fasten the pipe to the pipe connection member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Sioux Chief Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Duane R. Condon, Frank D. Julian, Truman J. Stegmaier
  • Patent number: 8622347
    Abstract: In one advantageous embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus and method for supporting a load is provided. The apparatus comprises a structure having an inner surface with a shape configured to substantially conform to an outer surface of a stringer. A number of pins extends from the inner surface of the structure such that the number of pins are configured to engage holes in the outer surface of the stringer when the structure is placed over the outer surface of the stringer. The pins support the structure with respect to the stringer when a load is applied to the structure. A number of members extends from the outer surface of the structure such that the number of members is configured to connect to a part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Eduard Oyzerskiy
  • Publication number: 20130319566
    Abstract: An extendable rope protecting sleeve is provided as an apparatus that extends over an existing climbing rope providing a barrier that protects said climbing rope from fraying and weakening as a result of direct contact with damaging surfaces. The expandable rope protecting sleeve shrouds a climbing rope during a climber's descent with minimal interference to the climber's range of motion. The apparatus provides the extendable sleeve with a detachable engagement through a breakaway wrist strap in order reduce the likelihood of the climber being encumbered by the apparatus. Additionally, the detachable engagement is provided in a manner that avoids a sudden jerking sensation upon detachment. Through the combination of the aforementioned components the apparatus is able to slowly expand over a climbing rope covering exposed sections of the climbing rope during the climber's descent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: David Donald PETTY, Richard DeMille PETTY
  • Publication number: 20130220469
    Abstract: A ventilation ducting arrangement includes a flexible conduit having an inner surface defining a channel carrying a flow of air. First connectors are aligned in a length direction along a length of the inner surface of the conduit. Second connectors are aligned along the length direction. Each of the second connectors has a position along the length direction that is the same as a position of a corresponding first connector along the length direction but that is diametrically opposed to the position of the corresponding first connector relative to a circumference of the inner surface. Each of a plurality of fastening devices interconnects a respective one of the first connectors and a respective one of the second connectors such that a distance between the interconnected first connector and the interconnected second connector is limited by a length of the fastening device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: ABC Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven S. Fleagle, Kevin J. Carson
  • Publication number: 20130174931
    Abstract: A support system for process piping and method of installation are presented. An adjustable hanger rod assembly includes a rod with oppositely oriented external threads at opposite ends thereof. These threads are adapted to mate with internal threads in respectively associated sleeves. One of the sleeves is fixed to a support system, while the other sleeve is fixedly secured to a pipe clamp. The oppositely oriented threading of the rod allows the rod to operate as a turnbuckle, such that rotation of the rod adjusts the elevation of the pipe clamp and an associated pipe retained thereby. Once a desired adjustment has been achieved, the rod and associated pipe clamp may be locked into position by tack or spot welding of the rod to the associated sleeves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher J. Hendershot
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20130112305
    Abstract: Pliable-wall air ducts with suspended frames are disclosed herein. An example air duct system includes an air duct having a pliable sidewall to extend in a longitudinal direction, the pliable sidewall having a total weight and a framework to be disposed within the air duct. The framework includes a shaft extending in the longitudinal direction, a rib to engage an inner surface of the air duct and a plurality of spokes connecting the rib to the shaft. The example air duct system includes one or more hangers comprising an elongate member having an upper section and a lower section. The lower section to extend through a corresponding opening defined by the pliable side wall and to be coupled to the framework. Most of the total weight of the pliable sidewall is to be carried by the framework.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Cary Pinkalla, Frank Heim, Kevin J. Gebke, Nicholas L. Kaufman, William A. Niehaus
  • Patent number: 8434526
    Abstract: Pliable-wall air ducts with suspended frames are disclosed herein. An example air duct system includes an air duct having a pliable sidewall to extend in a longitudinal direction, the pliable sidewall having a total weight and a framework to be disposed within the air duct. The framework includes a shaft extending in the longitudinal direction, a rib to engage an inner surface of the air duct and a plurality of spokes connecting the rib to the shaft. The example air duct system includes one or more hangers comprising an elongate member having an upper section and a lower section. The lower section to extend through a corresponding opening defined by the pliable side wall and to be coupled to the framework. Most of the total weight of the pliable sidewall is to be carried by the framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Cary Pinkalla, Frank Heim, Kevin J. Gebke, Nicholas L. Kaufman, William A. Niehaus
  • Publication number: 20130042613
    Abstract: An offshore structure for use with an OTEC system includes a submerged spar having a lower portion having a cold water intake. The cold water intake includes a domed terminus in fluid communication with a cold water pipe. A dry machinery space adjacent the cold water intake includes one or more cold water supply pumps and one or more cold water pipe lifting and retention winches having a lifting cable connected to the cold water pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventors: Jonathan M. Ross, Daniel L. Wilkins, Manish Gupta, Greg M. Morrow, Laurence Jay Shapiro, Barry R. Cole, Andrew Rekret
  • Publication number: 20120266995
    Abstract: An air transport duct, and sections of such duct, capable of connection to a support by support members and attachment members formed from two mating members. Each section has two terminal open ends and a flange disposed around each open end for connection to a flange of an adjacent section. Each flange includes two relatively transverse receiving channels adjacent to a corner of the flange, and an insertable corner member positioned into the channels. The corner member is attached to the flange by a load-bearing connection, and can support a predetermined portion of a weight of the duct by connection of the corner member to a first mating member connectable to a second mating member secured to a corresponding support member. A method of connecting a duct to a support by forming a load-bearing connection between a corner member and a flange.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicant: JTB Steel Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Kenneth Carson
  • Patent number: 8251101
    Abstract: A refrigerant piping unit includes a pipe and a joint coupled to the pipe. The pipe includes a main section, an end section and a bent section between the main section and the end section. The end section includes a flange portion adjacent to the bent section and a thick end portion opposite to the bent portion with respect to the flange portion in an axial direction. The flange portion is expanded in a radially outward direction and is engaged with the joint. The thick end portion is expanded in the radially outward direction and has a thickness greater than a thickness of the main section. The thick end portion has a groove on its outer surface. The end section has a flat inner surface extending continuously from an inner surface of the bent section throughout inside of the flange portion and the thick end portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignees: Denso Corporation, GAC Corporation
    Inventors: Makoto Yoshino, Hiroki Naganawa, Naka Shibata, Masakazu Kondou
  • Patent number: 8235331
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus and method for supporting a flexible duct. The apparatus comprises a concave duct support structure with a convoluted anterior end and one or more straps. The concave duct support structure is placed in contact with outer surface of the flexible duct. The convoluted anterior end supports curved surfaces of the flexible duct. The concave duct support structure comprises multiple slits. The straps pass through the slits of the concave duct support structure. Distal ends of the straps may be affixed to a structural member for suspending the flexible duct supported on the concave duct support structure. The concave duct support structure prevents the flexible duct from sagging and crimping, thereby allowing free flow of air, liquids, etc. through the flexible duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: David J. McIntosh
  • Patent number: 8186386
    Abstract: A modular exhaust tube system for directing exhaust gases from an internal combustion engine. The exhaust tube system includes first and second elongate half-shells, with each half-shell comprising an elongate thin-wall body having a substantially U-shaped cross-sectional profile with a constant sideways opening along the length of the body. The exhaust tube system also includes a center brace having dimensions which span the length and height of the sideways openings. The sideways openings of the first and second half-shells are coupled together around the center brace to form a flattened elongate exhaust tube having an inlet end and an outlet end for directing exhaust gases from the internal combustion engine. In one aspect the first and second half-shells are selected from a group of interchangeable and modular half-shells having different substantially U-shaped cross-sectional profiles that are reversible top-to-bottom and end-to-end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: Boyd L. Butler
  • Patent number: 8157921
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning heat exchanging surfaces includes at least one supply line for a cleaning fluid. The supply line has an end and an extent axis. The supply line is bendable in a first direction transverse to the extent axis and resistant to bending in at least one second direction transverse to the extent axis. At least one fluid distribution device is disposed at the end of the supply line. The supply line may be telescopic. An assembly having a heating installation and an apparatus for cleaning heat exchanging surfaces of the heating installation, and a method for carrying out a relative movement between at least one supply line and a heating installation, are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Clyde Bergemann GmbH
    Inventor: Volker Kruse
  • Patent number: 8132595
    Abstract: A pump iron restraint system is disclosed in which a fastening system is coupled to successive pump iron joints and a wireline is threaded through the fastening system. The fastening system may comprise a pair of endless flat straps, each of which is coupled to one of the pump iron joints. The eyes of the endless flat straps are placed around the interior arch of the screw pin shackle. A wireline is placed through the spaced formed by the screw pin and the screw pin shackle. The wireline is secured at the well site so that the wireline is taut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Nabors Well Services, Ltd.
    Inventor: Gilbert Anthony Gayaut
  • Publication number: 20120011849
    Abstract: An offshore power generation structure comprising a submerged portion having a first deck portion comprising an integral multi-stage evaporator system, a second deck portion comprising an integral multi-stage condensing system, a third deck portion housing power generation equipment, cold water pipe; and a cold water pipe connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventors: Barry R. Cole, Jonathan M. Ross, Andrew Rekret, Henry Sibenaller, William Schulz, Russ Krull, Laurence Jay Shapiro
  • Patent number: 8070113
    Abstract: A sway brace including a U-shaped sling with flanges at each end. The flanges are mounted to two mounting fixtures including block bodies and passages therethrough. Mounting surfaces on the fixtures receive the flanges of the U-shaped sling. Threaded members affix the flanges to the mounting surfaces of the mounting fixtures. The sling includes metal strapping formed in a U-shaped curve about an axis perpendicular to the width of the strapping in a manner to create rigidity and strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Automatic Fire Control, Incorporated
    Inventor: Kraig A. Kirschner
  • Patent number: 8061390
    Abstract: A pipe hanger system includes a pair of brackets and a pipe connection member selectively slidable along the brackets. The brackets each preferably include an elongate leg and a foot extending outwardly from the leg at a first end thereof. The leg of each bracket is preferably longer than the distance between the building members. The feet of the brackets are first fastened to an inside surface of the first building member. The pipe connection member can then be slid into the desired position and fastened in place. The legs of the brackets are then bent outwardly and secured to the inside surface of the second building member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Sioux Chief Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Duane R. Condon, Frank D. Julian, Truman J. Stegmaier
  • Publication number: 20110226373
    Abstract: A J-lay system constructed to be positioned on board a pipeline-laying vessel, comprising a fixed pipeline support (12) and a movable pipeline support (12) configured for supporting a pipeline (10) which is suspended form the pipeline-laying vessel,—the movable pipeline support (12) comprising:—at least a first movable support member (20A) configured for engaging a first collar (16A) on the pipeline (10),—at least a second movable support member (20B) configured for engaging a second collar (16B) on the pipeline (10),—the fixed pipeline support (12) comprising:—at least a first fixed support member (20A) configured for engaging a third collar on the pipeline (10),—at least a second fixed support member (20B) configured for engaging a fourth collar on the pipeline (10), wherein the first (20A) and second fixed support member (20B) configured for engaging a fourth collar on the pipeline (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicant: HEEREMA MARINE CONTRACTORS NEDERLAND B.V.
    Inventors: Gerardus Cornelius van Grieken, Jean Louis Antoine de Grave, Erwan Karyadi
  • Publication number: 20110000569
    Abstract: A flexible fabric tube is provided for heating, ventilation and air conditioning use having batten pockets longitudinally spaced and extending circumferentially around the tube and having flexible support members therein to maintain the tube in an open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Inventors: Phil Lynch, Clemmey Queen
  • Patent number: 7841367
    Abstract: A tube (1) of fabric reinforced PVC for suspension from a ceiling of a tunnel or the like comprises a tube shaped fabric with an internal and an external coating of PVC. The internal coating is of black, electrically conducting PVC and the external coating is of white, electrically isolating PVC. The tube (1) is provided with an external, longitudinal strip (2) of black, electrically conducting PVC in contact with the internal coating. The strip (2) is earthed by a suspension arrangement (3-5) for the tube (1) to the ceiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventor: Lars-Ingvar Nordström
  • Publication number: 20100269946
    Abstract: An apparatus for thermally hygrometrically processing and conditioning air for classified environments and preparing foods, characterized in that said apparatus comprises a stainless steel inner bottom and monolithic thermally insulated panels, said panels comprising an outer wall and an inner wall therebetween a thermally insulating material is arranged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Applicant: SINTECO IMPIANTI S.r.I.,
    Inventor: Adam Franck