Metal Patents (Class 138/133)
  • Patent number: 7766051
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flexible pipe for transporting hydrocarbons, comprising the following, from the inside towards the outside: a cylindrical structural set adapted in such a way that it can withstand radial stress and at least one first armure lap, said first armure lap comprising a plurality of armure threads wherein the armure threads consist of formed and flattened metal threads, the width of said armure I being greater than the thickness e when they are wound in parallel in the form of a spiral with a longitudinal pitch around the structure set, said threads forming an angle of less than 60° angle with the generators (G) of said structural set, and the width/thickness ratio of the armure threads is greater than 4.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Technip France
    Inventors: Alain Coutarel, Fabrice Bectarte
  • Patent number: 7743792
    Abstract: A hose (10) comprising a tubular body (12) of flexible material arranged between an inner and an outer helically wound wire (22, 24). The hose (10) further comprises an axial strengthening means (20) adapted to reduce deformation of the tubular body (12) when the tubular body (12) is subjected to axial tension, the axial strengthening means (20) being adapted to exert a radially inward force on at least part of the tubular body (12) when axial strengthening means (20) is subjected to axial tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: BHP Billiton Petroleum Pty, Limited
    Inventors: Raymond Nicholas Burke, Eric Joseph Davis, Gerard Anthony Hall, Matthew Vernon Ridolfi, Simon Peter Alexander Thorp, Joel Aron Witz
  • Patent number: 7743793
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hose for transporting material from one destination to another and a method of constructing a hose. According to an exemplary embodiment, the hose may be constructed with two helical coils wound in opposing directions and multiple layers. The hose construction may provide a flexible hose with walls that resist kinking and rupture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Novaflex Hose Ltd
    Inventors: Hubert Lord, Mario Bedard
  • Publication number: 20100154914
    Abstract: A semi-rigid, flexible duct including a pair of coaxial sleeves, namely an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve disposed parallel to and about the inner sleeve and a resilient wound element disposed between the sleeves. Each of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve constitutes an aluminum foil ribbon. The wound element imparts corrugations to the two sleeves, such that the duct is extendible between a compacted configuration suitable for storage and for shipping and an extended configuration suitable for installation in a gas transport arrangement. Both the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve are of a predetermined thickness rendering the duct substantially rigid when in an extended configuration and enabling the duct to maintain its substantial rigidity upon extension from a compacted configuration. Optionally, at least one of the sleeves further includes a second, plastic layer bonded to the aluminum foil ribbon layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Steven LIEBSON, Graeme LIEBSON, Robert COHEN
  • Patent number: 7735524
    Abstract: A hose (10) comprising a tubular body (12) of flexible material arranged between an inner and an outer helically wound wire (22, 24). The hose (10) further comprises an elongate member having opposing longitudinal edges, the elongate member being helically wound around the tubular body such that the opposing longitudinal edges of the layer are in an adjacent or overlapping arrangement, wherein each longitudinal edge includes a formation capable of interengaging with a cooperating formation on the opposing longitudinal edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: BHP Billiton Petroleum Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Raymond Nicholas Burke, Eric Joseph Davis, Gerard Anthony Hall, Matthew Vernon Ridolfi, Simon Peter Alexander Thorp, Joel Aron Witz, David Charles Cox, Richard James Anthony Smith, Anthony James Wort
  • Publication number: 20100139801
    Abstract: A durable, semi-rigid, flexible duct including a pair of coaxial sleeves, namely an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve disposed parallel to and about the inner sleeve and a resilient wound element disposed between the sleeves. Each of the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve constitutes an aluminum foil ribbon. The wound element imparts corrugations to the two sleeves, such that the duct is extendible between a compacted configuration suitable for storage and for shipping and an extended configuration suitable for installation in a gas transport arrangement. Closely and evenly-spaced ridges that are situated in between the corrugations, add rigidity and durability to the duct. Both the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve are of a predetermined thickness rendering the duct substantially rigid when in an extended configuration and enabling the duct to maintain its substantial rigidity upon extension from a compacted configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2010
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventors: Steven Liebson, Graeme Anthony Liebson, Robert Cohen
  • Patent number: 7716803
    Abstract: A method of fabricating a flexible pipe for conveyance of fluid, comprising: winding at least one metal element in a short pitch helix around an inner sealing sheath for withstanding radial forces in the inner sealing sheath; preshaping a metal strip to form at least one ply of tensile armor tendons; winding the ply of tensile armor tendons in a long pitch helix around the at least one metal element; and applying an external protective sealing sheath around the at least one ply of tensile armor tendons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Technip France
    Inventors: Alain Coutarel, Francois Dupoiron, Philippe Francois Espinasse
  • Publication number: 20100032047
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a hose is provided which includes a tubular inner core layer and a tubular outer layer. A single reinforcing layer is disposed between the tubular inner core layer and the tubular outer layer and is formed strands having a 1-over, 1-under braid pattern, a 3-over, 3-under braid pattern, or a 4-over, 4-under braid pattern. The strands define a coverage of the tubular inner core layer of at least about 75%.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: VEYANCE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Gary Mennig, John Wendt, Brian Henry
  • Publication number: 20090320951
    Abstract: A hose comprising a tubular body of flexible material arranged between elongate inner and outer gripping members, wherein the tubular body comprises a sealing layer arranged between inner and outer reinforcing layers, and wherein the outer gripping member is made of a flexible non-rigid material capable of being wound around the tubular body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventors: Joel Aron Witz, David N. Cox
  • Publication number: 20090133771
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for making a plastic drainage pipeline reinforced by steel strips, comprising the steps of (1) steel strips and plastic being integrated to form a composite profile having ribs reinforced by steel strips; (2) the composite profiles being transported to an installation site; (3) the composite profiles being wound, and simultaneously the edge of the profile being melted and welded to form plastic drainage pipes reinforced by steel strips; and (4) a spigot joint being made at one end of the pipe. The present invention also relates to a plastic drainage pipe made by the method, comprising a plastic pipe body and reinforcing ribs integrated with the plastic pipe body as a whole, wherein the ribs of the plastic pipe are reinforced by steel strips enwrapped by the plastic. The present invention also provides an apparatus for making the plastic drainage pipe reinforced by steel strips.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Yiliang He
  • Publication number: 20090126821
    Abstract: The object of the invention is a high-pressure rubber hose comprising a liner (1), rubberized textile layers (2), main reinforcing plies (3) and a cover (5). The invention is essentially characterised by that the hose has an integrated coupling (7) and a permanent two- or three-dimensionally curved shape, which shape it retains in the absence of external force. The method according to the invention comprises the steps of building the high-pressure hose from its structural elements on a mandrel, providing an integrated coupling (7) to the hose, securing the coupling to the hose, removing the built-up hose structure from the mandrel, producing the desired final shape of the hose before vulcanization, and retaining the final shape by keeping the hose fixed during vulcanization. The apparatus according to the invention is essentially characterised by that it comprises blinds (12) matching the hose couplings (7), the blinds being disposed with fixed orientation and position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: ContiTech Rubber Industrial Gumiipari Kft.
    Inventors: Imre Domonkos, Tamas Katona, Jozsef Kiraly, Laszlo Nacsa, Tibor Nagy
  • Patent number: 7530372
    Abstract: The invention relates to a non-bonded pipe which is used to produce a dynamic pressurized fluid transfer hose and, in particular, a mud hose for rotary oil drilling. The inventive pipe consists of the following elements from inside outwards: an inner polymer sheath, at least two crosswise-arranged reinforcing plies comprising a wire which is wound helically at opposing winding angles, A and B, which are close to the angle of equilibrium of 55°, having an average that is centered on a value close to the equilibrium angle value; and an outer polymer sheath. The pipe also comprises an anticreep layer which is made from at least one coil with contiguous edges of a strip with high mechanical properties. Moreover, the aforementioned winding angles, A and B, of the crosswise-arranged reinforcing plies are not equal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Technip France
    Inventors: Jean-Michel Gerez, Pascal Estrier, Cédric Monteiro
  • Patent number: 7520302
    Abstract: The present invention is an electrical extensible hose that includes an outer shell, an inner core and at least one helical wire, which acts like a skeleton. In the present invention one implemented an additional wire that was conductive. The outer shell and inner core of the present invention may be bonded together via heat fusion. The helical wire is attached to the inner core via heat fusion. The helical wire supports the outer shell and inner core so as to form a tube. The outer shell and the inner core have a portion that forms an angular fold and have a portion that remains fixed. The second wire is attached at a point below the fixed portion of the electrical stretch hose so as to allow for maximum constriction caused by the shrinkable force created by the helical wire, thus increasing the stretch ratio of the hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Inventor: Stacy Smith
  • Patent number: 7516762
    Abstract: A flexible corrugated pipe, of a type comprising a plurality of overlapping material layers, comprises at least a coiled wire, and at least an electric cable, the coils or turns of said at least a wire and said at least an electric cable being arranged on a same plane, inside the wall of the pipe owing to the provision of the built-in electric cable, embedded in the thickness of the corrugated pipe, at a same position or level as the reinforcement metal coils, the outer corrugating configuration of the body of the tube is improved, thereby consequently improving the flexibility of the corrugated pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: IVG Colbachini, S.p.A.
    Inventor: Guiseppe Aldinio Colbachini
  • Publication number: 20090084459
    Abstract: A flexible pipe body and a method for manufacturing flexible pipe body is disclosed. The flexible pipe body includes an internal pressure sheath, at least one insulating layer comprising a mesh layer comprising a plurality of pockets and an outer sheath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Inventor: Peter Raoul Williams
  • Publication number: 20090050227
    Abstract: The present invention is an electrical extensible hose that includes an outer shell, an inner core and at least one helical wire, which acts like a skeleton. In the present invention one implemented an additional wire that was conductive. The outer shell and inner core of the present invention may be bonded together via heat fusion. The helical wire is attached to the inner core via heat fusion. The helical wire supports the outer shell and inner core so as to form a tube. The outer shell and the inner core have a portion that forms an angular fold and have a portion that remains fixed. The second wire is attached at a point below the fixed portion of the electrical stretch hose so as to allow for maximum constriction caused by the shrinkable force created by the helical wire, thus increasing the stretch ratio of the hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Stacy Smith
  • Patent number: 7487803
    Abstract: A flexible hose or pipe (42) is reinforced by means of at least one flattened steel wire (10, 20) with natural edges. The steel wire has a thickness-to-width ratio t/w below 0.95, a tensile strength Rm exceeding 3500?2000×d, where d is the diameter of a circle having the same cross-sectional surface and where Rm is expressed in Mpa and a permanent elongation at maximum load Ag of at least 0.70%. The flattening of the steel wire (10, 20) allows to recuperate ductility which has been lost as a result of the drawing until the final tensile strength Rm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: NV Bekaert SA
    Inventors: Erwin Lokere, Stijn Vanneste
  • Publication number: 20080283138
    Abstract: A flexible, typically un-bonded, armoured pipe, and a method manufacturing a flexible pipe. The pipe has a center axis and comprises an inner liner surrounded by a radial armouring and an axial armouring, the radial and axial armouring each comprising at least one armouring layer of armouring profiles wound with winding angles ?i relative to the center axis. The winding angle of the innermost armouring layer ?innermost is larger than the winding angle of the outermost armouring layer ?innermost. The outer radial armouring layer has sufficient strength and flexibility to prevent prohibitively large radial deformations of underlying axial armouring layers without considerably increasing the radial contact pressure on underlying axial armouring layer. At least one fibrous layer, comprising at least two fibrous cords wound on an underlying layer, surrounds the outermost armouring layer. The flexible pipe is useful in terrestrial and/or subsea transport of fluids at elevated temperature and/or pressures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2005
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Jan Rytter
  • Patent number: 7431054
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a wire-reinforced flexible rubber hose that is particularly suitable for use in breathing air applications. The method includes positioning a section of wire-reinforced tubing on a forming mandrel and then positioning a sleeve of uncured rubber to cover the section of wire-reinforced tubing. Cording is then wrapped around the sleeve of uncured rubber such that each adjacent wrapping of cording is disposed between and separated by the wire helix of the wire-reinforced tubing. The sleeve of uncured rubber is cured while the cording is wrapped thereon to form a cured hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Crushproof Tubing Company
    Inventors: Vance M. Kramer, Jr., J. Todd Grayson
  • Patent number: 7347226
    Abstract: A flexible hose for fuels comprises a rubber inner layer, at least a reinforcement fabric layer and a covering rubber layer and, moreover, at least a fuel vapor low permeability material layer. With respect to prior flexible hoses for fuels, the inventive flexible hose has the advantage that it drastically lowers the gas leakages through the flexible hose wall, so as to meet the requirements of the enforcing rules in this field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: IVG Colbachini S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giuseppe Aldinio Colbachini
  • Publication number: 20080017265
    Abstract: A flexible corrugated pipe, of a type comprising a plurality of overlapping material layers, comprises at least a coiled wire, and at least an electric cable, the coils or turns of said at least a wire and said at least an electric cable being arranged on a same plane, inside the wall of the pipe. Owing to the provision of the built-in electric cable, embedded in the thickness of the corrugated pipe, at a same position or level as the reinforcement metal coils, the outer corrugating configuration of the body of the tube is improved, thereby consequently improving the flexibility of the corrugated pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Applicant: IVG COLBACHINI, S.p.A
    Inventor: Giuseppe Aldinio Colbachini
  • Patent number: 7243686
    Abstract: A hose (10) comprising a tubular body (12) of flexible material arranged between an inner and an outer helically wound wire (22, 24). The hose (10) further comprises an axial strengthening means (20) adapted to reduce deformation of the tubular body (12) when the tubular body (12) is subjected to axial tension, the axial strengthening means (20) being adapted to exert a radially inward force on at least part of the tubular body (12) when axial strengthening means (20) is subjected to axial tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Inventors: Raymond N. Burke, Eric J. Davis, Gerard A. Hall, Matthew V. Ridolfi, Simon P. A. Thorp, Joel A. Witz
  • Patent number: 7216675
    Abstract: A tubing includes an inner liner composed of one or more fluoropolymers, the inner liner being corrugated to define a trough, and having a wire disposed in said trough. The tubing further includes an outer layer, permanently secured to an exterior of the inner liner and covering said wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Crane Resistoflex
    Inventors: Jack L. Wisdom, Scott M. Roberts
  • Patent number: 7156127
    Abstract: An improved flexible hose for carrying fluids is disclosed. The hose has a first end and a second end, and is typically in a retracted position when no tensile force placed on an end of the hose and in an extended condition when a tensile force of a pulling nature is placed on an end of the hose. The hose has a thermoplastic cover on its outer surface. The thermoplastic cover has an interior surface and an exterior surface. On the interior surface there is a helical member adhered thereto this helical member being comprised of a material capable of carrying a current of electricity. The hose of the present invention stretches at least 100 percent over its at rest position when a pulling force is placed on one end of the hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Flexible Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Moulton, Roy Herron, Stephen Mountford, Thomas Dove
  • Patent number: 7156128
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a synthetic resin pipe configured to perform water stop accurately by forming a part connecting convex portions of an outer pipe to be flat without reducing flexibility in order to compose a synthetic resin pipe having flat inner and outer surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Kanaflex Corporation
    Inventor: Shigeki Kanao
  • Patent number: 7055553
    Abstract: A laminated fluid transfer hose construction having one or more intermediate metal barrier layers is provided, as well as, a hose assembly employing the laminated hose construction and coupling means. The inventive hose construction demonstrates improved barrier properties in the form of improved fluid permeation resistance, as well as improved durability. The hose construction may be convoluted yet still provide exceptional resistance to undesirable buckling, kinking and fatigue with no increase in fluid permeation due to necessary “thinning” of the walls to produce “flex.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Titeflex Corporation
    Inventors: Arthur J. Bessette, Mark D. Buddington
  • Patent number: 7040351
    Abstract: A plastic hose, and more particularly a pneumatic hose, is provided with at least two electrical conductors extending along the hose body. These conductors are in the form of strips (11 and 12) of a metallized braid of plastic material or of natural fiber with a spacing apart on the hose body (13). Accordingly high flexibility of the plastic hose (10) is achieved with satisfactory electrical conductivity of the strips ensuring safety as regards breakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Festo AG & Co.
    Inventors: Steffen Buck, Hans-Jürgen Claus, Klaus Zoller, Hans-Walter Brenner
  • Patent number: 7032623
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a flexible pipe structure wherein transverse displacement caused by buckling of the elongate elements of a tensile armouring layer when the pipe is being laid or used in deep sea is limited. The invention aims to reduce the play between the elongate elements of the tensile armouring layer so as to limit transverse displacement possibilities while providing the pipe with the required flexibility and mechanical characteristics. The elongate elements can freely move longitudinally in relation to one another to ensure flexibility of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignees: Coflexip, Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Daniel Averbuch, Jean-Marc Leroy, Alain Coutarel
  • Patent number: 6978805
    Abstract: A flexible, thermoplastic hose for high pressure and high velocity flow is provided with a flexible braided reinforcement layer with a static drain therein for conducting static electricity towards a ground. This is achieved by having at least one textile fiber yarn with conductive fibers therein braided with non-conducting textile yarns to form the braided reinforcement layer. The preferred conducting fiber yarn is formed with metal fibers as well as plastic fibers. A method of manufacture of the hose comprises providing electrical conducting yarns and non-conducting yarns in a braiding machine and braiding them about a tube having a hollow bore through which fluid flows. An abrasion resistant outer cover layer of polyurethane is extruded over the braided layer having the drain therein. For higher pressure applications, a second braided reinforcement layer may also be provided over the inner braided layer having the electrically conductive yarns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Dyna-Flex, Inc.
    Inventor: James J. D'Amico
  • Patent number: 6978806
    Abstract: A flexible, armoured pipe has an impermeable inner liner (3), which is surrounded by at least two reinforcement layers (5, 6, 7, 8). Between the reinforcement layers an impermeable membrane (10) is provided, which ensures that fluids do not permeate into the inner reinforcement layers (5, 6) from the pipe's outer reinforcement layers (7, 8). The outer layers are not isolated from influence from the surrounding environment. Moreover, the outer layers (traction reinforcement layers) are protected against the damaging effect of gases, which are diffused out through the flexible pipe. On the outside of the outer traction reinforcement layers (7, 8) a layer (11) can be applied, which is easily permeated by the surroundings, and which protects the traction reinforcement layer against mechanical influences. In this way it is ensured that the pressure reinforcement can absorb forces both from inner as well as outer pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: NKT Flexible I/S
    Inventors: Kristian Glejbol, Jan Christian Rytter
  • Patent number: 6899140
    Abstract: A flexible pipe and a method of manufacturing same according to which a tubular sheath is provided that defines a longitudinal passage for receiving a conveyed fluid, a tape is formed by a plurality of metal fibers supported by a strip of flexible material to form a tape, and the tape is wound around the sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Wellstream International Limited
    Inventors: Dana J. Fraser, Colin Soens
  • Patent number: 6889718
    Abstract: Flexible, armored pipes and methods of using the same are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the flexible, armored pipe includes an inner liner which is surrounded by a pressure armor. The inner liner may be built-up by joining together profiles that have a number of recesses. In one embodiment, the profiles are configured as K-profiles, which have recesses that are arranged in adjoining surfaces of the profile. When the profiles are brought together, the recesses form a cavity in which a locking element can be inserted, the function of which is to prevent displacement of the K-profiles at right-angles to the axial direction of the pipe when exposed to axial, compressive forces. The locking element can be I-shaped, circular or configured as a wire with a C-shaped cross-section. The locking element can also be made either of a rigid or an elastic, deformable material. With a C-shaped locking element, the whole of the cavity, which is formed by the recesses, is not filled out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: NKT Flexibles I/S
    Inventors: Kristian Glejbøl, Jakob Wedel-Heinen, Jan Christian Rytter
  • Patent number: 6878873
    Abstract: A damped sleeve having a damping layer attached to a backing layer is disclosed. The damping layer is formed from a non-woven energy absorbing felt and is attached to the backing layer by lines of attachment which define pockets between the layers. The layers are positioned coaxially around an axis and define a central space for receiving elongated items to be protected from vibration. Resilient filamentary support members are arranged between the damping and backing layers to support the layers radially in spaced relation relative to the axis. The support members may be helically wrapped around the axis, circumferentially positioned or arranged in a zig-zag pattern transversely to the axis. A slit in the layers provides access to the central space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Federal-Mogul World Wide, Inc.
    Inventors: Samuel B. Fryberger, Jr., Brian M. Snyder
  • Patent number: 6838141
    Abstract: A hose of a laminated structure which comprises a rubber layer composed of a rubber composition, and a laminate including a metal foil and a resin, the rubber composition including: (A) a rubber including at least one of an ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer and an ethylene-propylene copolymer; (B) a peroxide vulcanizing agent; (C) a resorcinol compound; and (D) a melamine resin. The hose is light in weight, less costly, and has excellent gas barrier properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ayumu Ikemoto, Motoshige Hibino, Hidehito Ikeda, Kazutaka Katayama
  • Patent number: 6830076
    Abstract: A hose assembly for coupling a plurality of components in fluid connection and a method for making same. According to a first aspect of the invention, the hose assembly includes at least one rigid portion and at least one flexible portion which cooperate to permit the shape and size of the hose assembly to be easily modified so that the components may be coupled to one another. A second aspect of the invention provides a method for reinforcing a flexible portion of the hose assembly to prevent the flexible portion from kinking when the flexible portion is bent. A third aspect of the invention provides a support collar for use in reinforcing an intersection between a pair of duct sections wherein at least one of the duct sections is moveable relative to the other duct section. The support collar reinforces the intersection and helps to render this section less susceptible to tearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Jayant D. Patel
  • Patent number: 6827109
    Abstract: A flexible hose and a method for manufacturing the same includes a hose tube having a smooth exterior surface. The hose tube exterior surface has a fabric and cover laminated or wrapped thereon. The lead end of a single wire is helically wound about the hose tube on top of the cover. The wire in turn is at least partially encased by a rubber ridge preferably having a height greater than the thickness of the hose tube wall. The rubber ridge tapers in the direction of valleys formed between the ridges, and the resulting hose structure has improved flexibility by enabling the hose to flex at every valley, yet sufficient strength for heavy duty applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Salem-Republic Rubber Company
    Inventor: Donald C. McCaughtry
  • Publication number: 20040200538
    Abstract: A pipe for transporting a pressurised medium comprises a plastic pipe body (1) as well as reinforcement (2-4) extending in the circumferential direction thereof for absorbing the tensile forces arising as a consequence of the overpressure, which reinforcement is constructed as a strip of plastic material (2) containing a series of wires (3) of a relatively high tensile strength and/or rigidity, which wires extend alongside one another in the longitudinal direction of the strip of plastic material, which strip of plastic material containing wires is wound spirally with respect to the plastic pipe body. The reinforcement comprises steel wires, preferably a series of steel wires encased by the strip of plastic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventor: Lambertus Gerrit Peter Dalmolen
  • Patent number: 6742545
    Abstract: A flexible hose construction adapted for conveying fluids under pressures and capable of withstanding relatively high external pressures without collapsing. The tubular construction includes a first reinforcement layer, an inner jacket surrounding the first reinforcement layer, a second reinforcement layer surrounding the inner jacket, and outer jacket covering the second reinforcement layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: William C. Fisher, Michael R. Swails
  • Patent number: 6739355
    Abstract: Flexible, armored pipes and methods of using the same are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the flexible, armored pipe includes an inner liner which is surrounded by a pressure armor. The inner liner may be built-up by joining together profiles that have a number of recesses. In one embodiment, the profiles are configured as K-profiles, which have recesses that are arranged in adjoining surfaces of the profile. When the profiles are brought together, the recesses form a cavity in which a locking element can be inserted, the function of which is to prevent displacement of the K-profiles at right-angles to the axial direction of the pipe when exposed to axial, compressive forces. The locking element can be I-shaped, circular or configured as a wire with a C-shaped cross-section. The locking element can also be made either of a rigid or an elastic, deformable material. With a C-shaped locking element, the whole of the cavity, which is formed by the recesses, is not filled out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: NKT Flexibles I/S
    Inventors: Kristian Glejbøl, Jakob Wedel-Heinen, Jan Christian Rytter
  • Patent number: 6698457
    Abstract: A flexible hose which has a hose body made of soft synthetic resin, a reinforcement made of hard synthetic resin wound spirally and joined to the hose body by fusion, and a conductor arranged inside the reinforcement in its longitudinal direction. The conductor does not adhere to the reinforcement and is movable. The hose body is formed by: extruding a tube made of soft resin from a head of an extruder; pressing and flattening the tube to form a strip; and winding the strip spirally with the adjacent side edges joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Tigers Polymer Corporation
    Inventors: Tokujiro Hayashi, Noriaki Fujimoto
  • Publication number: 20040025953
    Abstract: A flexible pipe and a method of manufacturing same according to which a tubular sheath is provided that defines a longitudinal passage for receiving a conveyed fluid, a tape is formed by a plurality of metal fibers supported by a strip of flexible material to form a tape, and the tape is wound around the sheath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: Wellstream, Inc.
    Inventors: Dana J. Fraser, Colin Soens
  • Patent number: 6668866
    Abstract: An armoured flexible pipe consists of an inner liner (3), on the inside of which a carcass (1) is provided, while the outer side of the inner liner is surrounded by a layer of pressure armour and a layer of tensile armour, which in turn are surrounded by one or more layers of thermally insulating bands which are shielded from the surroundings by an outer sheath. With the object of ensuring a sufficiently low transport of heat through the walls of the pipe, on the outside of the pressure and tensile armour layers (5, 6, 7, 8) thermally insulating bands are provided, which bands are made of a polymer or a polymeric composition, such as a polymer containing at least 50% polypropylene. The armoured flexible pipe according to the invention is especially advantageous for use in the extraction, transport or refining of mineral oil or related fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: NKT Flexibles I/S
    Inventors: Kristian Glejbol, Jakob Wedel-Heinen
  • Patent number: 6656552
    Abstract: A heat-resistant multi-layer hose is described. The hose includes inner and outer elastomeric layers, and an intermediate reinforcing layer. The inner and outer layers each include a substantial fraction of ethylene-octene copolymer, and may include one or more compatible polymers such as EPDM, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, and chlorinated polyethylene. The use of relatively large amounts of ethylene-octene copolymer results in improved high heat resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventor: Michael L. Crouse
  • Publication number: 20030188792
    Abstract: A flexible duct construction and method of manufacture is provided in which the duct is formed from a continuously wound elongate member comprising a core of insulating material, a reinforcing wire element and a casing comprising a strip of substrate material extending around the core and the reinforcing element. In the preferred method of manufacture, adhesive is applied to one side of the strip of substrate, the casing has a tail part extending from a generally circular part which encapsulates the core and the reinforcing element, and the elongate encapsulated insulating member is wound helically so that the circular part of one winding overlies and adheres to the tail part of the previous winding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Applicant: Talana Investments Limited
    Inventor: William James Donnelly
  • Publication number: 20030183294
    Abstract: An elongate flexible plastic tubing includes a helical support bead, and defines a central passage opening on opposite ends of the tubing. The tubing may also include one or more lumens extending helically in the support bead from end to end of the tubing. Also, the tubing may include one or more electrical conductors also extending helically from end to end of the tubing. Additionally, one or plural fiber optic conductors may extend helically from end to end of the tubing. The lumen(s), electrical conductors, and fiber optic conductors, are available for utilization to, for example: conduct electricity, carry out electrical resistance heating of fluid flow in the central passage, carry electrical signals, carry fluid, transmit fluidic signals, or to convey light, and/or optical signals, along a length of the tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Eric Carlson
  • Publication number: 20030178083
    Abstract: A flexible hose and a method for manufacturing the same includes a hose tube having a smooth exterior surface. The hose tube exterior surface has a fabric and cover laminated or wrapped thereon. The lead end of a single wire is helically wound about the hose tube on top of the cover. The wire in turn is at least partially encased by a rubber ridge preferably having a height greater than the thickness of the hose tube wall. The rubber ridge tapers in the direction of valleys formed between the ridges, and the resulting hose structure has improved flexibility by enabling the hose to flex at every valley, yet sufficient strength for heavy duty applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Applicant: Salem-Republic Rubber Company
    Inventor: Donald C. McCaughtry
  • Publication number: 20030178085
    Abstract: A hose (10) comprising a tubular body (12) of flexible material arranged between an inner and an outer helically wound wire (22, 24). The hose (10) further comprises an axial strengthening means (20) adapted to reduce deformation of the tubular body (12) when the tubular body (12) is subjected to axial tension, the axial strengthening means (20) being adapted to exert a radially inward force on at least part of the tubular body (12) when axial strengthening means (20) is subjected to axial tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventors: Raymond N. Burke, Eric J. Davis, Gerard A. Hall, Matthew V. Ridolfi, Simon P.A. Thorp, Joel A. Witz
  • Publication number: 20030172981
    Abstract: Sound attenuating ducting has an inner, helical wire supporting an inner and outer layer formed by strips of a foamed thermoplastic rubber material. Axial and helical reinforcing yams extend along the ducting between the layers. The two strips are applied from extruders, the extrusion rate of the inner strip being set to be less than that of the outer strip so that the inner strip is stretched to produce a more porous structure than in the outer strip. In this way, the inner layer is efficient in absorbing orifice noise within the ducting and the outer layer contains radiated noise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: SMITHS GROUP plc
    Inventor: Diane Gibson
  • Publication number: 20030111126
    Abstract: An improved flexible hose for carrying fluids is disclosed. The hose has a first end and a second end, and is typically in a retracted position when no tensile force placed on an end of the hose and in an extended condition when a tensile force of a pulling nature is placed on an end of the hose. The hose has a thermoplastic cover on its outer surface. The thermoplastic cover has an interior surface and an exterior surface. On the interior surface there is a helical member adhered thereto this helical member being comprised of a material capable of carrying a current of electricity. The hose of the present invention stretches at least 100 percent over its at rest position when a pulling force is placed on one end of the hose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2001
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventors: Gregory Moulton, Roy Herron, Stephen Mountford, Thomas Dove
  • Publication number: 20030102044
    Abstract: This flexible tubular pipe 1 comprises at least, from the inside outward, a carcass 3 made of interlocked strip, an internal sealing sheath 4, a cylindrical pressure vault 5 consisting of a winding of an interlocked profiled metal wire would in a helix with a short pitch, at least one ply 7, 8 of tensile armor tendons wound with a long pitch, and an external protective sealing sheath, and it is characterized in that at least one armor ply is made of steel strip 10 advantageously shaped by bending.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventors: Alain Coutarel, Francois Dupoiron, Philippe Francois Espinasse