With Means To Support Disparate Element Therein Patents (Class 138/108)
  • Patent number: 7195038
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for supporting conduits within a sanitary environment. Some supports are configured so as to avoid the formation of surfaces that might collect dust, debris, cleaning fluids, etc. when installed. In one embodiment, the support includes a pair of opposing support members that may be releasably and sealingly secured together. The upper support member may have a substantially uninterrupted convex surface that has a desired texture. The lower support member may be sized and shaped such that no portion thereof protrudes outwardly beyond the upper member to form any surfaces, pockets, etc. wherein dirt, debris, cleaning fluids, etc. may accumulate. A seal or grommet may be employed to establish a seal between the conduit and support to prevent the infiltration of dirt, debris, cleaning fluids, etc., between the conduit and the conduit support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: PBM, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary W. Friedline, Robert S. Chappo, Jr., Kenneth R. Graham
  • Patent number: 7182104
    Abstract: A duct for containing a cable and method for mounting the cable therein include providing the duct with a collapsible or flexible wall movable between a contracted condition for mounting the duct in a conduit and an extended condition of increased cross-sectional area for inserting a cable in the duct. The duct is moved to its extended condition by an applied internal pressure and, after the cable has been inserted, the duct is returned to its contracted condition. The duct has a multiple layer construction: an inner layer, an outer protective layer and a reinforcing layer between them. There may be frictional reducing ribs on the inner and/or outer layer in order to reduce the forces necessary to place the duct and/or the cable. Alternatively, the duct may have a single, thin layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Arnco Corporation
    Inventor: Robert B. Washburn
  • Patent number: 7156126
    Abstract: A synthetic resin pipe insert for insertion in an existing pipe or for use in the manufacture of new pipe to form a multi-channel pipe. The insert has a curved cross sectional configuration which defines a segment of a circle with a convexly curved radially outer wall and a concavely curved radially inner wall and a plurality of radial walls extending between the curved, radially inner and outer walls to form at least two linear channels. A curved inner pipe member may optionally be fitted against the concavely curved radially inner wall. The pipe insert of the invention facilitates multiple utility connections, such as cable TV and sewer, in a single pipe assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Inventors: Philip R. Topek, Newell J. Rollins
  • Patent number: 7119275
    Abstract: A protector body is formed with a semi-annular portion. The semi-annular portion has an inner peripheral surface projected with a rib to engage with a trough portion of the corrugated tube. The lid is provided with a larger-diameter lid and a smaller-diameter lid depending upon a diameter of the corrugated tube. The larger-diameter lid is made symmetric in form with the semi-annular portion formed in the protector body while the smaller-diameter lid has a flange projecting, at both sides, from a semi-annular frame portion corresponding to a diameter of small-diameter corrugated tube and a rib, to engage in a trough portion of the corrugated tube, projecting in an inner peripheral surface of the semi-annular frame portion. The flange on both sides has a lock portion at tips thereof thus enabling locking with the locked portion of the semi-annular frame portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignees: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Suzuki, Hiroshi Sasaki
  • Patent number: 7077165
    Abstract: A double pipe has an outer pipe and an inner pipe that is formed in a spiral or wavy configuration and is held by an inner circumferential face of the outer pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Calsonic Kansei Corporation
    Inventors: Hiromi Takasaki, Yoshikazu Takamatsu
  • Patent number: 7069957
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a device for heat-insulating at least one sub-marine pipe. The sub-marine pipe includes a heat insulation covering including a material subject to migration, the covering surrounding the pipe and being covered by a sealed protective envelope having a tubular shape and a longitudinal axis of symmetry. The envelope being constituted by a flexible or semi-rigid material able to remain in contact with the external surface of the insulation covering when the latter warps. The device includes at least two sealed transversal partitions, each being constituted by a closed rigid piece traversed by and integral with the pipe and with the envelope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Saipem S.A.
    Inventors: Raymond Hallot, Xavier Rocher, Xuan Chi Nguyen
  • Patent number: 7060898
    Abstract: A removable plug for closing an unused cord opening on an electrical box. The cord opening is typically a U-shaped slot extending from the side of an electrical box or side of the cover member. The plug includes a main body, inner arms and outer arms that define a channel therebetween. The channel has a width slightly greater than the walls of an electrical box that it will be used in conjunction with. The plug may be used to plug any unused cord openings to prevent the entry of insects into the electrical box. The plug can be removed or reinserted as desired to protect any unused cord openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 7025580
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for installing a liner material into a host conduit such as, e.g., a sewer pipe, hydrocarbon pipeline, gas line, water line, industrial chemical pipe, or a saltwater line. The liner material may include a compression liner and/or a preliner that is attached to the inner wall of the host conduit to repair or reinforce the host conduit or separate the host conduit from materials transported within the new liner formed from the liner material. Curable resin, slurry, or cement can be placed between the liner material and the host conduit to affix the liner material into place. Before and during curing, a fluid such as air or water can be used to inflate the compression liner outwardly toward the host conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventors: Richard T. Heagy, Cynthia D. Heagy, Tom R. Menger, John Simonis
  • Patent number: 7021338
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for improving the operation of sewer systems includes a first set of sewer lines connected to a source of other water and a second set of sewer lines of smaller diameter than the first sewer lines connected to sources of sanitary effluent, the first and second sets of lines being separately connected to a sewerage treatment plant. The second set of sewer lines can be attached to the interior surfaces of the first set of sewer lines by an adhesive material and fasteners. A liner can be provided in the first sewer lines with the second sewer lines being positioned between an exterior surface of the liner and the interior surface of second sewer lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: E. Wynn Berry, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7013927
    Abstract: A protective sleeve system for use by plumbers during installation of riser pipes in buildings, surrounds a pipe and maintains a space around the pipe. A sleeve surrounds the pipe such that a space is defined between the pipe and the sleeve and a plurality of spacers disposed between the sleeve and the pipe, maintain the space between the pipe and the sleeve. The plurality of spacers are separate from the sleeve. An annular cover ring covers the annular space. In use, the protective sleeve system is installed prior to pouring the concrete floor. After pouring and setting of the concrete floor, the cover ring is removed, followed by the removal of the spacers. The sleeve is then cut to floor level and the pipe riser is cut down to a suitable level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventor: Robert Beaumont
  • Patent number: 6968864
    Abstract: A rotary holder for a corrugated tube is structured such that an inner rotary body containing a corrugated tube is received in an inner portion of an outer fixing body, and an outer peripheral sliding surface of the inner rotary body slides along an inner sliding surface of the outer fixing body. The outer fixing body is formed by assembling a base member and a cover each having a recessed arch surface on an inner periphery thereof. The inner sliding surface is formed by connecting a recessed arch surface of the base member to a recessed arch surface of the cover. Further, outer retracting surfaces are respectively provided to both end portions of the recessed arch surface of the base member so as to be extended to a tangential direction thereat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignees: Yazaki Corporation, Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masaji Miyamoto, Ryoichi Fukumoto
  • Patent number: 6896004
    Abstract: A casing spacer comprised of high strength plastic includes two complementary nut and bolt connected members each having an arcuate inner portion adapted for tight-fitting engagement with a pipe's outer surface and plural linear ribs (risers) extending radially outwardly from the arcuate inner portion and adapted to engage an inner surface of an outer casing maintains the pipe in fixed position within the casing. The arcuate inner portion of each member is flexible so that its entire inner surface contacts the pipe's outer surface for a range of pipe diameters, permitting only two members of fixed size to be used with variously sized pipes. Each casing spacer member includes an aperture in its flexible, arcuate inner portion which is disposed between aligned risers and is adapted to receive and retain a non-slip member frictionally engaging the pipe's outer surface for maintaining the casing spacer in fixed position on the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Cascade Waterworks Mfg. Co.
    Inventor: William N. Witzel
  • Patent number: 6889712
    Abstract: For the purpose of repairing supply lines such as a waste-water pipe, a plastic hose has been developed which, in the clear state, has a diameter which is the same size as, or larger than, the diameter of the pipe in which it is to be inserted. This plastic hose is used to fix optical or electric cables against the inner wall of the pipe. For this purpose, the plastic hose is introduced into the waste-water pipe in a collapsed state, together with the cable, and is released when the desired positioning has been reached. The collapsed plastic hose will then regain its original shape and thereby fix the cable against the inner wall of the waste-water pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Alcatel
    Inventors: Klaus Nothofer, Hans-Detlef Leppert, Wolfgang Teschner
  • Patent number: 6886601
    Abstract: A duct (10) is made up of a plurality of layers (11, 12, 13) of pliant material. The layers (11, 12, 13) are attached by stitching (20, 22) to form pockets (23, 24) between adjacent layers. One of the layers (11) is wider than the others and extends over the lateral edges (17, 19) of those layers (12, 13), and when the stitching (22) is applied, a loop (21) is formed. The loop (21) receives a strength member (26) which may be engaged by a clamp (31) carried by a bracket (34) which may be attached to a utility pole (30) to carry the duct (10) overhead. In another embodiment, a duct (40) includes enclosed loops (41, 42, 43) forming pockets (50, 51, 52). Stitching (54) connects the loops (41, 42, 43) and forms another loop (55) to receive a strength member (56). In yet another embodiment, the layers (61, 62, 63 and 64) are of different lateral widths, and the longest layer (64) extends around one of the edges of the other layers (61, 62, 63) to form a loop (71) when stitching (65) is applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: TVC Communications, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Jerry L. Allen
  • Patent number: 6883549
    Abstract: A conduit for the transport of cryogenic media, in particular a superconducting cable, includes at least two metal pipes arranged concentrically and spaced apart from one another, an insulation layer being situated in the annular gap between the metal pipes and the annular gap being evacuated. The exterior of the metal pipe (4) is separated at predetermined intervals and above each opening a pump connector (10) is welded vacuum-tight to the outer metal pipe (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Nexans
    Inventor: Klaus Schippl
  • Patent number: 6875918
    Abstract: A grip portion is formed by a pair of half-split grip portions and grips an end portion of a tubular cable cover exteriorly mounted on a cable when the half-split grip portions are joined. A clamp portion is formed by a pair of half-split clamp portions and clamps the cable exposed from the end portion when the half-split clamp portions are joined. A clamp protrusion is formed on an inner surface of the clamp portion and clamps the cable exposed from the end portion by pressing the cable in a radial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignees: Autonetworks Technologies, Ltd., Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Sudo, Nobuyoshi Tatoh
  • Patent number: 6840337
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing cuttings in a deviated borehole using drilling fluids. The apparatus includes a pipe string and a bottom hole assembly having a down hole motor and bit for drilling the borehole. The pipe string has one end attached to the bottom hole assembly and does not rotate during drilling. The apparatus and methods raise at least a portion of the pipe string in the deviated borehole to remove cuttings from underneath the pipe string portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: James B. Terry, Carey J. Naquin, Patrick Laursen, James Estep, Martin Paulk, E. Alan Coats, Ron Crook, Rickey L. Morgan
  • Patent number: 6827108
    Abstract: A single wire cable conduit provided having a rhomboid-shaped wire including approximately parallel sides, a rounded first end, and a tapered second end. The wire is serpentine wound into a hollow tubular body having a plurality of approximately parallel adjoining wire loops. The wire loops each have the rounded first end positioned in continuous displaceable contact with the tapered second end of an adjacent loop. As the hollow tubular body deflects, each wire loop displaces relative to its adjacent wire loop. Each rounded first end is able to rotate and translate along the abutting tapered second end reducing both conduit bending resistance and potential friction damage to either a sleeve or cable and to a jacket covering the hollow tubular body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Emile A. M. Bakker
  • Patent number: 6799607
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for supporting conduits within a sanitary environment. Some supports are configured so as to avoid the formation of surfaces that might collect dust, debris, cleaning fluids, etc. when installed. In one embodiment, the support includes a pair of opposing support members that may be releasably and sealingly secured together. The upper support member may have a substantially uninterrupted convex surface that has a desired texture. The lower support member may be sized and shaped such that no portion thereof protrudes outwardly beyond the upper member to form any surfaces, pockets, etc. wherein dirt, debris, cleaning fluids, etc. may accumulate. A seal or grommet may be employed to establish a seal between the conduit and support to prevent the infiltration of dirt, debris, cleaning fluids, etc., between the conduit and the conduit support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: PBM, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary W. Friedline, Robert S. Chappo, Jr., Kenneth R. Graham
  • Patent number: 6796743
    Abstract: For the purpose of fastening cables to the inner wall of a non-accessible waste-water pipe, an internal liner has been developed, which is constructed from at least two layers, the first layer, which rests against the internal wall of the pipe when in the laid condition, having a profile or empty spaces for receiving cables, and a second layer, of envelope-like type, which carries the first layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Alcatel
    Inventors: Klaus Nothofer, Hans-Detlef Leppert, Wolfgang Teschner
  • Patent number: 6796336
    Abstract: A diaphragm system to center and hold at least one inner body within an outer body, which inner body and outer body extend in a first direction, has a plurality of washers positioned between an inner surface of the outer body and has a recess or aperture for receiving each of the inner bodies. The washers have an outer circumference provided with a surface contact portion for engaging an inner surface of the outer body, and each of the recesses has a surface contact portion for engaging an outer surface of the inner body with the contact portion for engaging the outer body and the contact portion for engaging each of the inner bodies having an angular extent up to 180°. The washers are mounted at different angular orientations perpendicular to the first direction regarding their contact portions, so that pressure is applied uniformly around each of the inner bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: European Organisation for Nuclear Research-CERN
    Inventor: Albert Jan Ijspeert
  • Patent number: 6796334
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a conduit repairing material, repairing structure, and repairing method thereof, and particularly provides a repairing method for an existing conduit characterized by comprising using a plurality of reinforcing members capable of being carried in the existing conduit, assembling said reinforcing members into a hollow skeleton-like reinforcing body extending substantially along the inner surface of the existing conduit, attaching a plurality of inner face bars to the inside of the reinforcing body to assemble them into a tubular form along the lengthwise direction of the conduit, and injecting a curable infilling into the gap between the inner face bars and the inner surface of the existing conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignees: Ashimori Industry Co., Ltd., Ashimori Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masatoshi Ishikawa, Hitoshi Saito, Futoshi Makimoto
  • Patent number: 6776194
    Abstract: There is a disclosed a conduit supporting structure that imposes, maintains and/or reinforces a flow guiding formation of a conduit, whereby to effect a desired flow configuration in the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Tayside Flow Technologies Limited
    Inventors: John Graeme Houston, Peter Arno Stonebridge, John Bruce Cameron Dick, Robert Gordon Hood, Allana Johnstone, Christophe Emmanuel Sarran, Craig McLeod Duff, Allan Thomson
  • Patent number: 6761189
    Abstract: A wearing ring, particularly for protecting a cable guide hose on a robot, with an inner ring and an outer ring having in each case two half-shells is characterized in that the half-shells of at least one of the rings can be locked together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Kuka Roboter GmbH
    Inventors: Alwin Berninger, Stefan Karlinger
  • Publication number: 20040130332
    Abstract: A sliding plug for working on and testing pipes is presented. The sliding plug includes a center portion and a gasket disposed about the central portion. When towed through the pipe, the sliding plug maintains a substantial seal against water flowing through the pipe. In some embodiments, a flexible gasket can be utilized to allow for substantial sealing while the sliding plug is traversing obstacles in the pipe. The sliding plug according to the present invention can be utilized in pipes where conventional plugs are inconvenient. For example, in FELL testing a sewage line, a sliding plug can be attached to a sonde cable and the testing can proceed without plugging and surcharging the section of pipe to be tested. In some embodiments, the sonde can include a pressure transducer which may be monitored to indicate that there is a sufficient water level at the sonde and, in some embodiments, to indicate a leak in the pipe by a drop in the water pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Jackson Harris
  • Patent number: 6739800
    Abstract: A cleaning device for use with a gutter system includes at least a first body portion connected to the top of the gutter pipe. The cleaning device includes a downspout, connected to the gutter, with a flexible segment. The flexible segment can be extended or compressed to allow removal or insertion into a storm drainage pipe. The downspout may pivot at the flexible segment to divert water away from the structure while the cleaning device is in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph Bevilacqua
  • Patent number: 6732764
    Abstract: A rotary holder for a corrugated tube is formed such that an inner rotary body containing a corrugated tube is received in an inner portion of an outer fixing body, and an outer peripheral sliding surface of the inner rotary body may rotate relative to the outer fixing body. The inner rotary body is formed by assembling two divided rotary members, each having a round arch surface on an outer periphery thereof. The outer peripheral sliding surface is formed by abutting a surface of each divided rotary member against each other. Further, a cut surface retracting inside from a rotation locus of the round arch surface in each divided rotary member is formed in each end portion of the round arch surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignees: Yazaki Corporation, Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masaji Miyamoto, Ryoichi Fukumoto
  • Patent number: 6730220
    Abstract: A kidney dialysis machine includes a number of flexible members extending from the machine to corresponding receptacles at a patient station. The flexible members are arranged in a cable bundle at a point intermediate of the machine and the ends of the members. A retaining member is wrapped around the bundle to hold the bundle together. The retaining member is attached to a spring that has one end connected to the retaining member and an opposite end attached to the kidney dialysis machine. The spring holds the bundle off the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: John McCartney
  • Patent number: 6701967
    Abstract: A device for arresting the propagation of a buckle appearing on an outer tube of a double-walled rigid pipe intended to transport hydrocarbons and consisting of two coaxial tubes. The double-walled pipe is of the reelable type and intended for very great depths and consists of a thick and rigid annular transverse partition fastened to the inner tube and to the outer tube. The partition is joined to the outer tube and to the inner tube by way of an outer and inner sleeve having the same diameter as the outer and inner tubes and fastened to the latter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Coflexip
    Inventors: Bill George Louis, Mike Bell
  • Publication number: 20040031531
    Abstract: An adjustable water pipe includes a connecting block, a conduit, a securing sleeve, and a metal wire. The conduit is flexible, and is firmly joined to the connecting block at a first end. The connecting block has a through hole and an outlet communicating with an inner space of the conduit. The securing sleeve is provided to press the first end of the conduit tightly against the block, preventing water from leaking through the joint. The metal wire has plasticity so that it can be bent into various shapes. The metal wire is placed along the inner space of the external conduit, and is firmly inserted into one end of the through hole of the connecting block, helping the conduit stay bent in conveying water after adjustment of position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Jin-Yue Chiu
  • Patent number: 6685231
    Abstract: An insulation piece for a pipeline conveys electrically conductive liquids from a point that is at a ground potential to a point connected to a high voltage. The liquid is conveyed discontinuously by portion-by-portion transport by the carriage flow of the liquid being interrupted. The insulation piece is periodically free of liquid, corresponding to the interruptions in the carriage flow. The insulation piece is a hollow body, and its unobstructed width is equal to or greater than that of the pipeline. Connecting pieces for connecting to the pipeline are provided on the end faces of the insulation piece, which are closed in places by terminating elements, and which connecting pieces are of the same diameter as the adjacent pipeline. The connecting pieces pass through the terminating elements, rest against them to form a seal, and each have a toroidal-form attachment on the outside at their inner end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: ABB Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Gunter Börner, Dietmar Eickmeyer, Horst Dörlich
  • Patent number: 6668864
    Abstract: A conduit assembly for a partition for receiving wires, hoses, or cables. The conduit assembly includes passages and foaming material, which expands on the outer surface of the conduit assembly. The conduit assembly is arranged in a through hole, which is formed in the partition. The foaming material expands when heated, thus fixing the conduit assembly in the partition. The conduit assembly further includes spare passages. Detachable plugs close the spare passages. When adding more wires, hoses, or cables to the conduit assembly, the plugs are removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Mirai Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shohachi Shimizu
  • Patent number: 6668865
    Abstract: By attaching a base portion to a cover portion formed is an outer fixing body and in the interior of the outer fixing body a corrugated tube is rotatably received. Further, by providing a tube bend restraint portion at the end portion of the cover portion for restraining bend of the corrugated tube within the given range, a rotary holder for corrugated tube in which the range of sliding movement of the corrugated tube is defined only within the cover portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Masaji Miyamoto, Hiroyuki Wakamatsu, Tadashi Muraoka
  • Patent number: 6651700
    Abstract: A device for eliminating propagation of a buckle in the outer wall of a double-walled tube, where the double-walled tube comprises an outer pipe, an inner pipe and an annular space between them in which the deformable element is disposed with the external surface of the deformable element in contact with the internal wall of the outer pipe and the interior of the deformable element being spaced outward from the inner pipe and having a sheath on the interior of the deformable element. The deformable element may be a wound wire, a profiled wire, an interlocked wire with interlocked turns, a non-interlocked wire, a spring with turns urged outwardly or reinforcement with turns urged outwardly and bearing blocks in the annular space on the inner pipe for at least one end of the reinforcement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Coflexip
    Inventors: Antoine Bastard, Jeroen Remery
  • Publication number: 20030183291
    Abstract: A duct (10) is made up of a plurality of layers (11, 12, 13) of pliant material. The layers (11, 12, 13) are attached by stitching (20, 22) to form pockets (23, 24) between adjacent layers. One of the layers (11) is wider than the others and extends over the lateral edges (17, 19) of those layers (12, 13), and when the stitching (22) is applied, a loop (21) is formed. The loop (21) receives a strength member (26) which may be engaged by a clamp (31) carried by a bracket (34) which may be attached to a utility pole (30) to carry the duct (10) overhead. In another embodiment, a duct (40) includes enclosed loops (41, 42, 43) forming pockets (50, 51, 52). Stitching (54) connects the loops (41, 42, 43) and forms another loop (55) to receive a strength member (56). In yet another embodiment, the layers (61, 62, 63 and 64) are of different lateral widths, and the longest layer (64) extends around one of the edges of the other layers (61, 62, 63) to form a loop (71) when stitching (65) is applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2003
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Applicant: Marc Talon, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry L. Allen
  • Patent number: 6604549
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for fixing a tubular element in a cavity, which device is made up of hoops made of an elastically flexible material disposed in cross-sectional planes of said cavity, and means for retaining said element, said device being characterized in that, along the longitudinal axis of said cavity, said hoops are secured together by a flexible longitudinal support and are interconnected by a flexible membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Alcatel
    Inventors: Philippe Gauthier, Bernard Wurier, Peter Friedrich Herrmann
  • Patent number: 6601852
    Abstract: For sealing an annular space (4) between opening (2) in a wall or similar, member (1) and an object (3), extending through the opening (2), by introducing a sealing agent into the space (4), at least one bag (9, 10), into which the sealing agent is introduced, is positioned in the space (4). For this purpose, a supporting element (5, 6) is used, which can be positioned in the opening and to which a bag (9, 10) is fastened. The annular space (4) can be sealed easily and also liquid-tight in this manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Markus Kögler, Franz Heimpel, Silvia Huber, Peter Vogel
  • Patent number: 6595473
    Abstract: Slidable-contact portions 10, 24 of a fixing tool 1 are engaged with the concave grooves 11 of a corrugated tube 2 which is circular in section so that the corrugated tube is supported rotatably in its circumferential direction by the fixing tool 1. Where the corrugate tube is oval in section, it is fixed inside a rotating member 33 with a circular outer periphery, and the rotating member is held rotatably in its circumferential direction inside a body of the fixing tool 1. The rotating member may be moved along a cam groove, or may hold the corrugated tube in a state decentered in an oblique direction. The fixing tool 1 is composed of a receiving part 3 and covering part 2 which have slidable-contact supporting portions 10, 24 to be engaged with the concave grooves 11 of the corrugated tube 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Tohru Aoki, Kenichi Doshita, Mitsunori Tsunoda, Hiroshi Watanabe
  • Publication number: 20030102043
    Abstract: An inner duct operable for routing a transmission cable therein includes a duct tube. The duct tube having an inner surface and an outer surface and at least one passageway disposed generally between said inner and outer surfaces of the duct tube. The at least one passageway being operable for receiving optical fibers therein. Alternative embodiments of the inner duct include at least one tube stranded therearound. The at least one tube includes at least one optical fiber therein and an outer sheath can generally surround the at least one tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventor: Larry W. Field
  • Patent number: 6572306
    Abstract: One or more electric and/or data transmitting cables are confined in an elongated strip-shaped body containing a hardenable resin or the like, and the body is placed against a portion of the internal surface of an underground sewage, water or other pipe. An expandible tubular liner is thereupon introduced into the pipe and is expanded to press the body against the pipe. The body is caused to set, by conveying a hot fluid through the liner and/or by electrically heating the cable or cables, and to adhere to the internal surface of the pipe. The liner can remain in the pipe and can be bonded to the strip-shaped body and/or to the remaining portion of the internal surface of the pipe. Alternatively, the liner is caused to collapse and is withdrawn from the pipe once the strip-shaped body is bonded to the internal surface of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventor: Martin Prusak
  • Patent number: 6571832
    Abstract: A casing spacer disposed between and engaging an inner carrier pipe and an outer casing maintains separation between and alignment of the carrier pipe and the casing. The casing spacer includes plural connected shell members, or segments, disposed about and engaging an outer surface of a carrier pipe and an inner surface of the casing. Each shell member includes one or more non-slip members engaging the carrier pipe to prevent movement of the casing spacer along the carrier pipe/casing combination. Each shell member is comprised of a high-strength, pliable material permitting shell members of different sizes to be connected together in a single casing spacer to accommodate a wide range of carrier pipe circumferences. The shell members are connected by plural nut and bolt couplers, with each shell member further including tapered coupling apertures and plural connector flanges to facilitate assembly and installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Cascade Waterworks Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: Jerry E. Elliott
  • Publication number: 20030091392
    Abstract: A cleaning device for use with a gutter system is disclosed. The cleaning device includes at least a first body portion connected to the top of the gutter pipe. The cleaning device includes a downspout, connected to the gutter, with a flexible segment. The flexible segment can be extended or compressed to allow removal or insertion into a storm drainage pipe. The downspout may pivot at the flexible segment to divert water away from the structure while the cleaning means is in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: Joseph Bevilacqua
  • Publication number: 20030056844
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for fixing a tubular element in a cavity, which device is made up of hoops made of an elastically flexible material disposed in cross-sectional planes of said cavity, and means for retaining said element, said device being characterized in that, along the longitudinal axis of said cavity, said hoops are secured together by a flexible longitudinal support and are interconnected by a flexible membrane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Applicant: ALCATEL
    Inventors: Philippe Gauthier, Bernard Wurier, Peter Friedrich Herrmann
  • Patent number: 6530724
    Abstract: A method of replacing damaged parts of wastewater channels with inserted parts, e.g. optical cables, includes removing a section of the channel, positioning a lower half-shell (1) below the inserted part (2) at the removed section of the channel, passing an attachment element (3) having two ends (3a, 3b) around the inserted part (2), feeding the attachment element (3) through at least one opening (4, 6) of an upper half shell (5), placing the upper half shell (5) on the lower half shell (1), attaching the upper half shell (5) to the lower half shell (1), attaching the upper and lower half shells (5, 1) to neighboring channel sections, pulling the ends of the attachment element (3) tight to press the inserted part (2) against the inner surface of the channel, and filling the opening (4, 6) with a sealing compound (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Berliner Wasserbetriebe Anstalt des Oeffentlichen Rechts
    Inventors: Wilhelm Gaebelein, Michael Roeling
  • Patent number: 6516712
    Abstract: A steam generator is formed by a plurality of similar heat accumulator units stacked vertically. Each heat accumulator unit of the stack has an orientation different than any adjacent heat accumulator unit so that multiple heat accumulator elements of the each heat accumulator unit align with respective open spaces of any vertically adjacent heat accumulator unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Piemark Feg L.L.C.
    Inventors: Philip A. Ratermann, Richard H. VanCamp
  • Patent number: 6513551
    Abstract: A device for arresting the propagation of a buckle appearing on an outer tube of a double-walled rigid pipe intended to transport hydrocarbons and consisting of two coaxial tubes. The double-walled pipe is of the reelable type and intended for very great depths and consists of a thick and rigid annular transverse partition fastened to the inner tube and to the outer tube. The partition is joined to the outer tube and to the inner tube by way of an outer and inner sleeve having the same diameter as the outer and inner tubes and fastened to the latter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Coflexip
    Inventors: Bill G. Louis, Mike Bell
  • Publication number: 20030000591
    Abstract: For the purpose of repairing supply lines such as a wastewater pipe, a plastic hose has been developed which, in the clear state, has a diameter which is the same size as, or larger than, the diameter of the pipe in which it is to be inserted. This plastic hose is used to fix optical or electric cables against the inner wall of the pipe. For this purpose, the plastic hose is introduced into the waste-water pipe in a collapsed state, together with the cable, and is released when the desired positioning has been reached. The collapsed plastic hose will then regain its original shape and thereby fix the cable against the inner wall of the waste-water pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Applicant: ALCATEL
    Inventors: Klaus Nothofer, Hans-Detlef Leppert, Wolfgang Teschner
  • Patent number: 6497255
    Abstract: A floor panel for use in an air handling unit that provides a thermal barrier to the passage of heat. The panel is reinforced internally so that it can support a heavy piece of air handling equipment inside the unit such as an air conditioner heat exchanger coil. The panel includes a reservoir for collecting moisture from the coil and rapidly exhausting the moisture from the unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: Carrier Corporation
    Inventors: John Carlisle Adams, Timothy Edward Ruhl
  • Publication number: 20020170612
    Abstract: Carriers and support means for routing cable structures in existing pipelines are disclosed, the carriers comprising coiled or folded cylinders or sections thereof bearing or adapted to bear a cable support means are disclosed, as well as a method of fixing such carriers to the interior of pipelines, and routing cable structures by means of such devices and methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: G. Gregory Penza
  • Patent number: 6478264
    Abstract: A mandrel assembly is provided for testing the peel strength between an outer layer and an adjacent inner layer of a tubular laminate. The assembly includes a cylindrical mandrel rotatably mounted to a clamping bracket. The mandrel has a retaining surface on its outer periphery which frictionally retains a sleevedly mounted sample of the laminate. The mandrel is attached to an axle by a pair of rotational bearings. The axle is fixedly attached to the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket is generally L-shaped and has a radial leg radiating from the axle and a clamping leg for being clamped into a testing machine. Testing the peel strength of the laminate includes mounting a test sample onto the mandrel assembly, mounting the assembly in a conventional tensile testing machine, attaching a starting end of the outer layer of the sample to the testing machine, starting the machine and measuring the force required to peel the outer layer from the inner layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Sonoco Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Lewis Nelson, William P. Sammons